Official Author

鈴木 正孝（Masataka Suzuki）

Introducing the Traditional Japanese Craft, Nanao Candles This video, titled "Nippon Handicraft Encyclopedia × Takazawa Candles (ニッポン手仕事図鑑 × 髙澤ろうそく), was released by "Nippon Teshigoto Zukan." There are so many ways to enjoy Japan, from studying history, to experiencing traditional crafts, to visiting Japanese tourist sites and more. This video is recommended for people interested in traditional Japanese crafts, as it introduces "Nanao Candles," a traditional craft in Nanao, Ishikawa. Highlights of the Traditional Japanese Craft, "Nanao Candles" Source :YouTube screenshot The 7-minute long video introduces all of the important points of Nanao Candles, a traditional Japanese craft. Hisashi Takazawa, the owner of Takazawa Candle, which is located in Nanao, Ishikawa in Japan's Hokuriku region, gives a thoughtful interview. You can see the town of Nanao, Ishikawa from 1:20 in the video. You can observe the beautiful landscape in which Nanao Candles are made. The shop of Takazawa Candle is shown from 2:25. From 3:57, you can see how Nanao Candles are made by hand at the Japanese Candle workshop. You can get an idea of the techniques used to make the traditional Japanese candles. A Look at Nanao, Ishikawa Photo：The Townscape of Nanao, Ishikawa Prefecture Nanao, Ishikawa is located in the center of Noto Peninsula. There are many hot springs here, so those headed to Kanazawa should consider stopping by if you have the chance. Nanao Candles are very famous and make great souvenirs. Those unable to visit Japan are in luck because Nanao Candles can also be bought online through Takazawa Candle's online store. There are also events held here, such as the Hotosai Festival (奉燈祭) and the Seihakusai Festival (青柏祭) which has been designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan, and was registered as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. More About Traditional Nanao Candles Source :YouTube screenshot The origin of Nanao Candles starts with Japan's Warring States Period (1467 to 1615). When Maeda Toshiie visited Nanao, Ishikawa, Nanao Candles were produced to help develop Japanese industries. At that time, many craftsmen lived in Nanao, and thus, the culture of Japanese candles was born. Nanao had easy access to Japanese paper, an important material for making candles. This is one of the reasons for the development of Nanao Candles. Another feature of Nanao Candles is the use of natural materials, such as rush grass. Takazawa Candle is a historical store with expert craftsmen that makes Nanao Candles and was founded in 1892. There you can experience making Nanao Candles, so if you're looking to experience traditional Japanese crafts, be sure to drop by! Summary of Japan's Traditional Nanao Candles Source :YouTube screenshot Takazawa Candle has been making and selling Nanao Candles for many years. If you're interested, be sure to check out Takazawa Candle to see their original products. Japan's traditional crafts are incredibly diverse. If you're looking for places to travel, be sure to research if there are any traditional crafts that originated from there. It will make your trip even more enjoyable knowing the history of the area. Nanao Candles are a traditional craft with a long history. Take this opportunity to experience traditional Japanese craftsmenship! 【Official Website】Takazawa Candle Online Store https://takazawacandle.com/

Traditional Japanese Cultures – Tea Ceremony, Flower Arrangement, Calligraphy, Kendo, and Archery: Video Introduction This video, titled "IS JAPAN COOL? DOU - 道 (THE TANGIBLE MANNER)," was uploaded by "ANA Global Channel." The video begins with an atmospheric Japanese bamboo grove, followed by scenes of martial arts such as iaido and kendo using Japanese swords, as well as calligraphy and archery. The beautiful images and the sound of taiko drums provide a glimpse into the various "Ways" of Japanese culture, including the classical Japanese performing arts of Noh theatre and Nihon buyo (classical Japanese dance). In Japanese "Dou" (道, Road/Path), in the context of traditional Japanese cultures, means "The Way." Some of the most common of these traditional cultures are as follows: Kendo (剣道) Kendo (剣, Sword) (道, Path) or "The Way of the Sword" Sado (茶道) Sado (茶, Tea) (道, Path) or "The Way of Tea" Kado (華道) Kado (華, Flower) (道, Path) or "The Way of Flowers," a type of flower arrangement Shodo (書道) Shodo (書, Writing) (道, Path) or "The Way of Writing," more commonly known as calligraphy Kyudo (弓道) Kyudo (弓, Bow) (道, Path) or "The Way of the Bow," more commonly known as archery Traditional Japanese Cultures and 'The Way' Photo：The kanji for 'Way' When it comes to Japanese culture, many people probably think of things like kendo and tea ceremony. "Dou," or "The Way" helps convey the history and wisdom contained within these traditional Japanese cultures. In fact, it's still not widely known that there are numerous "ways" in Japan. For starters, calligraphy (書道, Shodo), tea ceremony (茶道, Sado), and flower arrangement (華道, Kado), widely known as traditional Japanese culture, are collectively referred to as Sando (三道) or "The Three Ways." Even today, they are popular as training activities. There are also nine types of budo (武, War) (道, Path) or "The Way of War," including judo, which is popular around the world as an Olympic sport, kendo, kyudo (traditional Japanese archery), sumo, karate, naginata, aikido, jukendo, and shorinji kenpo. In addition, there are iaido, jodo, tatedo, and kobudo. There is also kodo, (香, Aroma) (道, Path) or "The Way of Aromas," which involves burning incense to enjoy their fragrance. There are many lesser-known forms of martial arts in Japan as well. Did you know that there are more Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples in Japan than there are convenience stores in the entire country? Even Japan's native religions, Shinto (神, Gods) (道, Path) or "The Way of the Gods," Butsudo (仏, Buddha) (道, Path) or "The Way of Buddha," and Shugendo (修, Discipline) (験, Test) (道, Path), or literally "The Way of Discipline and Testing." Learning More than Simply the 'Way' Photo：A judo gi So what is learned from these traditional Japanese cultures? Let's take the aforementioned "Budo" (martial arts) as an example. Japanese martial arts are similar to sports, as they are competitive and use a set of established rules. However, budo emphasizes spirituality. It's said that Budo is a form of "Bushido" (武士道), the "Way of the Warrior," a way to improve one's spirituality and character, particularly civility and morality. Budo is not only about winning matches, but also about becoming a better person by training one's mind, techniques, and physique through daily practice and discipline. Let's take a look at what you can actually learn by studying martial arts. ●Etiquette and Perseverance Martial arts are said to begin and end with a bow. Through martial arts, students learn to be considerate of others while keeping their emotions in check, and through repeated training, they also acquire patience and perseverance. ●Increased Concentration When competing against an opponent, one must pay attention to the opponent's movements and be ready to respond to the opponent's attack. This requires a high level of concentration. By continuing to practice, you will strengthen your ability to concentrate. Other benefits include increased flexibility of the shoulder blades and hip joints and increased metabolism, and it can also be practiced by men and women of all ages. If one's spirituality is enhanced through "budo," one may be able to calmly deal with unpleasant situations in real-life relationships or at work. Not limited to martial arts, in Japan, there are countless classes and dojos related to "ways," such as kado (華道, flower arrangement), sado (茶道, tea ceremony), and kyudo (弓道, archery), and many people practice them because they enable them to learn the Japanese spirit of harmony and etiquette. Popular Japanese Cultural Experiences Among International Tourists Photo：Kado Here are some Japanese cultural experiences that are popular among tourists visiting Japan. First, there's tea ceremony. Tea ceremony is a uniquely Japanese cultural experience that is popular among foreign tourists because of its refined etiquette and the Japanese spirit of wabi-sabi. Flowers are universally loved. In kado, a type of flower arrangement and purely Japanese culture, one learns not only how to arrange flowers, but also how to entertain guests and how to appreciate life by decorating flowers and plants. Unlike standard flower arrangement, the artistic ikebana experience, which also teaches the beauty of the space between the flowers, is becoming more and more popular every year. Another popular Japanese cultural experience among foreign visitors to Japan is kimono. As you can see in the video showing traditional Japanese dance and Noh theatre, many people associate Japan with kimono. In Kyoto and other sightseeing spots, people are often seen wearing kimono as well. Summary of Traditional Japanese Cultures and 'The Way' Have you checked out the video to learn about the different "ways" of Japan? It's a beautiful video filled with the charms of traditional Japanese cultures, dignified movements, and wabi-sabi. Like we mentioned, there are many "ways" that even Japanese people are not familiar with. The traditional Japanese cultures or "ways" aren't just about techniques, but also growing as a person and honing one's character. Perhaps you can use the inspiration you've found from this article to find your own path?

Isonokami Shrine – The Oldest Shrine in Japan: Video Introduction This video, titled "[Nara / National Treasure] Rainy Scenery at Isonokami Shrine in NARA, JAPAN -" (【奈良／国宝】石上神宮 - Rainy scenery of the Isonokami Jingu Shrine in NARA, JAPAN -), was uploaded by "channel WASABI." This video, shot during autumn, shows both the beauty of nature and the divinity of the area. Be sure to check out the video before reading along. Isonokami Shrine – A Brief History of the Shrine Photo：Isonokami Shrine, Tenri, Nara Isonokami Shrine is located in Tenri, Nara, in Japan's Kansai Region, at the western foot of Mt. Ryuo. The haiden (拝殿, hall of worship) is the oldest existing hall of worship in Japan and is designated as a National Treasure. Isonokami Shrine has been worshipped as the ancestral deity of the Mononobe Clan, a powerful clan in the Asuka Period (circa 592-710 A.D.). The shrine is also known for its blessings of health and longevity, its power to heal illnesses, protect from disaster, and fulfill wishes, and is designated as the 19th site on the Shinbutsu Reijo Junpai no Michi, a pilgrimage route to sacred Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. The pilgrimage route is made up of 152 sacred sites in Japan's Kinki region, including Ise Jingu Shrine. The Gods Worshipped at Isonokami Shrine Isonokami Shrine worships three main deities. Here we'll introduce them briefly. Futsunomitama no Okami – A sword that appears in Japanese mythology. The deity is said to have been inspired by the sword held by Takemikazuchi no Kami, a god of thunder. Furunomitama no Okami – Said to refer to one of the sacred treasures given to Nigihayahi no Mikoto (a god and ancestor of the Mononobe Clan) by Amatsukami Mioya, as well as its mysterious powers. Futsushimitama no Okami – A divine sword used by Susanoo no Mikoto when he defeated Yamata no Orochi, a legendary 8-headed dragon serpent, and the spiritual power of the sword itself. Chickens: Messengers of the Gods at Isonokami Shrine Photo：The sacred chickens of Isonokami Shrine, Tenri, Nara The 30 to 40 chickens at Isonokami Shrine are called goshinkei (御神鶏, lit "sacred chickens") and are designated as a protected species by the Japanese government. They are free-range chickens at Isonokami Shrine and welcome visitors to the shrine. Chickens, which appear in the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters) and the Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan), are believed to be messengers of the gods, and their crowing is thought to ward off evil. On the temple grounds, Goshinkei Mikuji (御神鶏みくじ, sacred chicken mikuji), which come in containers shaped like chickens, and ema (wooden prayer plaques) depicting a chicken crowing at dawn, are also popular. [Video] 2:05 - Chickens at Isonokami Shrine Highlights of Isonokami Shrine Photo：Izumo Takeo Shrine at Isonokami Shrine, Tenri, Nara The tower gate, designated as an Important Cultural Property, was built in 1318 in the late Kamakura Period (1185-1333), and in the past, a bell was hung on the upper level of the gate. The space behind the hall of worship, which is the oldest in Japan and is designated as a National Treasure, is a consecrated ground, and serves as a sacred space where the shrine's deities reside. The worship hall of Izumo Takeo Shrine, an auxiliary shrine to Isonokami Shrine, has also been designated as a National Treasure. The historic and solemn atmosphere of the shrine as well as its divine appearance can be seen in the video. [Video] 3:25 - Izumo Takeo Shrine's Worship Hall Seven-Branched Swords, Divine Amulets & More Photo：Isonokami Shrine, Tenri, Nara The seven-branched sword of Isonokami Shrine is an ancient relic that has been handed down within the treasury of Isonokami Shrine. It's assumed to be the same as a sword which was presented by the Baekje people (an ancient Korean kingdom) many years ago. The uniquely shaped sword, measuring 74.8 cm in length, is made of iron and has three "branch" swords on each side. The amulet called Go-shinken Mamori, which represents this seven-branched sword, is said to be a lucky charm with the power to rescue someone on the brink of death. The shrine's shuin stamp also depicts a seven-branched sword. Summary of Isonokami Shrine Isonokami Shrine is known as a power spot and is visited by many people seeking blessings. In addition to Isonokami Shrine, there are many other interesting historical sightseeing spots in Nara Prefecture. If you're planning a visit to Nara, consider visiting Isonokami Shrine as well! 【Official Website】Isonokami Shrine Official Website｜Tenri, Nara 【TripAdvisor】Isonokami Shrine

Sightseeing video introduction of "Shinshu Shibu Onsen" in Shimotakai-gun, Nagano Prefecture This video, titled "Walking Around Shibu Onsen Hot Spring" (渋温泉の街並 : Walking Around Shibu Onsen Hot Spring), was uploaded by "Anna Film Production." The video features the streets of Shibu Onsen at night, accompanied by quiet music. Enjoy 9 minutes and 30 seconds of wonderful video that will make you feel as though you've traveled back in time. Features of Shibu Onsen, a Hot Spring in Nagano Prefecture Photo：Shibu Onsen, Nagano Prefecture Shibu Onsen is a hot spring town located in Yamanouchi, Nagano, in Japan's Koshin'etsu region. It is said to have been one of the models for the internationally acclaimed animated film Spirited Away. The world illuminated by streetlights is an otherworldly place with a retro atmosphere. The atmospheric buildings and alleys are also very impressive. Shibu Onsen is a place where there are so many hot springs, that it's said that if you dig into the ground, hot water will start emerging immediately. It's also known as Gensen Oukoku (源泉王国, lit. "Kingdom of Hot Spring Sources") and boasts an abundance of hot springs with excellent quality, a rarity even in Nagano Prefecture. All ryokan and outdoor baths in Shibu feature 100% free-flowing hot-spring water. Each source has a different composition, with brownish, iron-rich water, cloudy water, greenish water, and clear, colorless water, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of colors and hot spring qualities. One of the attractions of Shibu Onsen is that visitors can both stay overnight or stop by during their travels for a one-day bathing experience and enjoy the footbaths. Experience Pure Bliss With a Tour of 9 Popular Hot Springs Photo：Hatsuyu, Shibu Onsen Shibu Onsen has nine outdoor hot springs that are used by the locals. Here are the names and benefits of each. No. 1 [Hatsuyu] Benefits: Good for the stomach No. 2 [Sasa no yu] Benefits: Good for eczema No. 3 [Wata no yu]: Benefits: Good for cuts, pimples, and promotes fertility No. 4 [Take no yu] Benefits: Good for gout No. 5 [Matsu no yu] Benefits: Good for spinal diseases No. 6 [Mearai no yu] Benefits: Good for eye diseases No. 7 [Nanakuri no yu] Benefits: Good for disorders related to emotional trauma No. 8 [Shinmeidaki no yu] Benefits: Good for women's diseases No. 9 [Shibu Oyu] Benefits: Good for childbirth, rheumatism, neuralgia If you stay at an inn in Shibu Onsen, you can borrow a special key that allows you to visit the nine outdoor hot springs for free. (For those visiting on a day-trip, only the 9th outdoor hot spring can be used). You can also collect stamps at each location on a special tenugui towel, and after doing so, if you pay a visit to Shibutaka Yakushi located at the top of 78 stone steps, it's said that your wishes will come true. It's also said to protect you from bad luck, provide blessings of safe child rearing, and bring you eternal youth. Events at Shibu Onsen Some of these events have been cancelled in recent years, but here is a partial list of events held at Shibu Onsen. ● Firefly Appreciation Party (蛍鑑賞会, Hotaru Kanshokai) This event allows visitors to view genji fireflies at Ishinoyu in Shiga Kogen by bus from Shibu Onsen. The fantastic atmosphere is enhanced by the light of the fireflies. ● Shibu Onsen Summer Festival Pedestrian Paradise (渋温泉夏祭り歩行者天国, Shibu Onsen Natsu Matsuri Hokosha Tengoku) This event is held every day from mid to late August. The cobblestone streets are closed to traffic and visitors can walk through the retro Showa-era streets while enjoying a variety of events. ● Charity Lantern Festival (チャリティー万灯会, Charity Manto-kai) A charity event held in May. Visitors light cup candles with their wishes written on them on the stone steps. The long staircase, beautifully illuminated, is a great photo spot and is sure to look good on Instagram as well. Summary of Shibu Onsen Photo：Shibu Onsen, Nagano Prefecture As the model for the film Spirited Away, Shibu Onsen has a fantastic atmosphere. While walking through the streets of Shibu Onsen, visitors can enjoy onsen manju (hot spring buns), onsen tamago (hot spring eggs), and even shooting galleries. If you're tired from sightseeing, you can stop by for a footbath or enjoy the hot springs on a day-trip. If you want to enjoy the hot springs and do some sightseeing in the area, you can also book a relaxing stay at an inn. Experience the historic atmosphere of Shibu Onsen. When sightseeing in Nagano, be sure to stop by and enjoy a visit to the nine wonderful hot springs. 【Official Website】Shibu Onsen 【TripAdvisor】Shibu Onsen

Introduction of the omelette rice recipe divine video of "Yokohama Tachibana-tei" in Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture. This video is titled “Graceful Skills, Yokohama Tachibanatei, Omelette Rice Performance, Uncut ｜ Awesome Cooking Demo of Fluffy Japanese Omurice（華麗な技 横濱たちばな亭 オムライスパフォーマンス ノーカット | Awesome Cooking Demo of Fluffy Japanese Omelette Rice）” created by “LifeWith505” and it introduces the omurice-making process of “Yokohama Tachibanatei,” a famous Japanese restaurant introduced in television programs and magazines. The quick hands when stir-frying the chicken rice in the pan and the incredible skill of making the fluffy omelette that is placed atop the chicken rice is artistic and flashy. What is Yokohama Tachibanatei? Photo： Yokohama Minatomirai｜Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Yokohama Tachibanatei, located in Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse and Cubic Plaza Shin-Yokohama in Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a famous restaurant where you can enjoy authentic Western dishes in Japan and whose most popular dish is its omurice. It’s always crowded during lunch, and its artistically-made omurice is enjoyed not just by the Japanese, but by foreigners as well. The key to its popularity is not just its aesthetic beauty, but also the fact that you can watch the live performance of the omurice being cooked, as this video introduces. In fact, omurice is said to be a Japanese dish made in Japan and its recipes and ingredients differ from restaurant to restaurant. However, this omurice “Omurice of a Western Food Restaurant” uses a recipe where a runny half-cooked egg is placed on the top of some chicken rice. In this video, you can see the amazing performances of the omurice-professionals of Yokohama Tachibanatei, a source of pride for Japan. The Chicken Rice Recipe of Yokohama Tachibanatei Source :YouTube screenshot The key to making the chicken rice, which will become the foundation of the omurice, is to stir-fry it with lots of butter and to make use of the savory flavor of the sauce and ketchup! While stir-frying the rice on a pan with hot butter, you add the first sauce (0:37). After adjusting the flavor with some salt and pepper and then giving it a mix, you add the second sauce at (1:13). Their ability to shake the frying pan without dropping a single piece of rice is truly the skill of a professional. The Fluffy Half-Cooked Egg Recipe of Yokohama Tachibanatei Source :YouTube screenshot The cooking process of the omelette that will be placed on top of the chicken rice begins at 2:28. You make the runny half-cooked eggs by putting a generous amount of mixed eggs in a pan with hot butter and then adjusting the intensity of the heat while finely shaking the chopsticks and the pan. This is the biggest highlight of this video! When the cooked egg flies through the air and lands on the chicken rice, the omelette splits beautifully, showing its fluffy, runny insides! This amazing cooking skill, that separates the amateurs from the pros, will make you go wild. You can see this from 3:21 in the video. If you want to carefully observe the omelette being placed on the chicken rice, we recommend watching the slowed-down version from 3:25. Summary of Yokohama Tachibanatei's Omurice “Yokohama Tachibanatei,” is a Western restaurant where you can enjoy not just the delicious omurice made with a special recipe, but also the incredible professional skills of the cooks. An original demi-glace sauce full of savory deliciousness is poured over the omurice, and you you'll be filled with satisfaction for the mere price of 880 yen (~$8 USD). Yokohama Tachibanatei, the restaurant introduced in this video, is located in Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, which is overflowing with diverse foreign cultures, gives the feeling of being inside a Western-style house, and is a popular restaurant highly rated on gourmet websites. In addition to the omurice, the menu also has dishes such as cutlet sandwiches and curry rice. In the Shin-yokohama restaurant, you can also get some take-out dishes such as tonkatsu bento (pork cutlet lunchbox). It’s a popular restaurant, so you may need to reserve some seats depending on the time you visit, but please visit the restaurant and enjoy the delicious taste of the omurice and the amazing cooking skills that you can watch live, both the pride and joy of Japan! ◆Yokohama Tachibanatei, Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Restaurant◆ 【Address】First floor of Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Building No.2, 1-1-2 Shinko (新港, Shinko), Naka Ward (中区, Nakaku), Yokohama City 【Access】6 minutes by foot from Minatomirai Line Bashamichi Station (馬車道駅, Bashamichieki), Nihon-Odori Station (日本大通り駅,Nihonodorieki) 【Hours】11:00〜21:00 【Closures】None 【Parking】None 【Telephone No】045-650-8752 【Official Website】Red Brick Warehouse Restaurant ｜ Western Food Yokohama Tachibanatei https://yokohama-tachibana.net/akarenga/

The Popular Japanese Inn "Hakkei" at Yubara Onsen This video, titled "'HAKKEI' YADO PV Premium Special Long Ver / JAPAN: Yado PV Hakkei 03" (“HAKKEI” YADO PV Premium Special Long Ver ／JAPAN ： 宿PV 八景03), was produced by "private-onsen JAPAN." It introduces the charms of the popular ryokan (Japanese style inn) Hakkei at Yubara Onsen in Okayama Prefecture, in Japan's Chugoku region. Yubara Onsen's Hakkei, with its open-air baths and cheerful landlady in a location rich in nature, has a high level of customer satisfaction and a very large number of repeat customers on hotel and ryokan review and comparison sites. If you're looking to relax and enjoy your holidays, this is the place for you! A Look at Yubara Onsen's Hakkei Source :YouTube screenshot Yubara Onsen's Hakkei, a popular Japanese inn, is a warm and welcoming facility that opened 20 years ago in Okayama Prefecture. The inn was started with the owner's wish for guests to eat plenty of fresh vegetables from the naturally rich mountainous area. Access is about 15 minutes by car from the Yubara Interchange on the Yonago Expressway. On the shore opposite the ryokan lays "Sunayu," which is regarded as one of the best open-air baths around, and behind it lays the Yubara Dam. The ryokan is located in a beautiful setting, with a suspension bridge on the approach to the facility. You can see it at 0:04 in the video. The inn's proprietress is also said to be very popular, having a charming personality, and some people stay here for just that reason. There are a variety of rooms available, including a Japanese-style room, the twin Japanese style room with a view of Sunayu, a Japanese-Western-style suite with an open-air bath, a vegetable garden, a grand suite with an open-air bath, a living room, and a double room. This can be seen at 0:53 in the video. Accommodation rates vary by season and plan. One day bathing and meal plans are also available for those with a tight schedule. For details and reservations, see the official website and travel websites. The hotel is also well-equipped with facilities such as "Souvenir shop - Takara-do," "Karaoke Box No Usagi," the Children's Corner, and the "Aesthetic Room - Fuwari". With so many facilities to choose from, you can spend your time relaxing however you like. The Hot Springs of Yubara Onsen's Hakkei Source :YouTube screenshot The main attraction of Okayama's popular inn, Yubara Onsen's Hakkei, is of course the hot springs. At this inn, you can enjoy a variety of hot spring facilities such as Kawa no Yu, Sora no Yu, Nagomi no Yu, and Ega no Yu, as well as a mixed bathing open-air bath. The baths can be seen at 0:36 in the video. It is a low-tonic alkaline hot spring, and is said to be effective in treating motor paralysis, bruises, gastrointestinal disorders, neuralgia, sprains, joint pains, stiff shoulders, cold sensitivity, and more. Forget about the troubles of every day life and melt away in the relaxing baths of Yubara Onsen's Hakkei. Dining at Yubara Onsen's Hakkei Source :YouTube screenshot At the popular Yubara Onsen inn "Hakkei," in Okayama Prefecture, visitors can enjoy seasonal, vegetable-centered, mountain village cuisine made with carefully prepared broth at "Hanaguruma. With more than 50 different kinds of vegetables between the dinner and breakfast menus, you can enjoy the vibrant, delicious Japanese cuisine. They also offer Western dishes for breakfast. Chef Masahara cooks Hakkei's Japanese cuisine with vegetables as the main ingredient. He is very particular about preparing "delicious" food, such as multi-course meals and daily specials, and warmly welcomes visitors. Eating delicious food at Hakkei and soaking in the Yubara hot springs will make for an unforgettable trip. Summary of Yubara Onsen's Hakkei Yuzawa Onsen's Hakkei supports families traveling with children and offers a full range of amenities such as diaper bins and baby baths. Yuzawa Onsen's Hakkei is located in Okayama Prefecture, which is home to the Kurashiki Bikan district, where you can enjoy the nostalgic scenery of the olden days, and Bichu Matsuyama Castle, which is called the Castle in the Sky and was used in the opening scene of the Taiga drama "Sanada Maru." There are many hot spring spots in Okayama Prefecture. Among them, the most popular hot spring spot is Yuzawa Onsen, where the popular ryokan Hakkei and Aburaya are located. There are plenty of instagrammable spots where you can enjoy superb views and seasonal views as well, so we recommend checking out the area. ◆Yuzawa Onsen Hakkei Introduction of facility outline◆ 【Address】〒717-0406 Toyosaka 1572, Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture 【Access】About 15 minutes by car from Yubara IC on Yonago Expressway 【Parking】Available. 【Telephone No】0867-62-2211 【Official Website】Okayama Yubara Hot Spring Inn Hakkei https://hakkei-yubara.jp/english/

An introduction to sightseeing in Matsuyama city, Ehime prefecture The video（松山市魅力発信映像 観光名所・施設） was created by "Ii, kagen. Matsuyama" (いい、加減。まつやま). It is a promotional video that introduces popular sightseeing spots in Matsuyama city, Ehime prefecture in Japan's Shikoku region (四国地方, Shikoku chihou). Matsuyama city is home to what is thought to be the oldest hot spring in Japan- "Dogo Onsen." The city is dotted with many other sightseeing destinations as well; such as Matsuyama castle which is famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot in the spring. In this article and video we would like to introduce you to some popular travel destinations and famous tourist attractions in Matsuyama. We will also talk about the various sightseeing spots introduced in the video via aerial photography. Matsuyama's beautiful scenery can be enjoyed not only during the daytime, but also at night when the city is lit up. What kind of sightseeing spots does Matsuyama have? Photo：Matsuyama city Matsuyama city is located in the northern Shikoku area, in Ehime prefecture. This region has a warm climate with very little rain, making it a very comfortable place to live. The population (based on data from January 2019) is roughly 514,900. If you’re travelling by plane, the nearest airport is Matsuyama airport (松山空港, Matsuyamakuukou). If you’re travelling by boat, the nearest port is Matsuyama Tourist Port (松山観光港, Matsuyama kankoukou) and if travelling by train, the city is easily accessible through JR Matsuyama station (松山駅, Matsuyamaeki). The tourist spots are all within close proximity to one another making it a convenient and popular city to travel around by public transport. Dogo Onsen- The sightseeing location that represents what Matsuyama is all about Photo：Dogo Onsen One of the symbols of Matsuyama city "Dogo Onsen", thought to be the oldest hot spring in Japan, is featured in the opening scenes of the video. Famous figures such as Natsume Souseki and Masaoka Shiki are known to have visited this hot spring. The unique and picturesque wooden three-story building has been renovated multiple times and as one of the first public bathhouses in Japan is an important cultural asset. If you take a day trip to Matsuyama we highly recommend you give it a visit! More sightseeing in Matsuyama - The history and culture of Matsuyama Photo：Bocchan Karakuri Clock 12 seconds into the video you can see the Bocchan Karakuri Clock (坊っちゃんカラクリ時計, Bocchan karakuridokei), a character from the famous Natsume Souseki novel Bocchan comes out from inside the clock accompanied by music once every hour. Right next to the clock is an area where you can relax and soak your feet in warm water directly from the Dogo Onsen hot springs. Another popular way to enjoy sightseeing around Dogo Onsen Station (道後温泉駅, Dougo onsen eki) is by rickshaw. Why not take a ride on the adorable Bocchan Ressha, a restored steam train that departs from Dogo Onsen Station? You can see this in the video at 0:17. Currently on display at Sakanouenokumo Museum are Meiji period exhibits like the Ryotaro Shiba (遼太郎司馬)and Masaoka Shiki exhibits. The undressed concrete building, designed by famous Japanese architect Tadao Ando, is a piece of art in itself. At 0:36 in the video you can take a look at the stunning Ehime Martial Arts Stadium (愛媛県武道館, Ehimeken budoukan), a beautiful wooden structure built from Ehime's locally grown timber. This magnificent building is as grand as the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo. You can enjoy a variety of amusements at Matsuyama Central Park (松山中央公園, Matsuyama chuuoukouen) which houses Botchan Stadium (坊っちゃんスタジアム, Botchan sutajiamu), a tennis court, a pool and a large sporting area. The Matsuyama Shiki Memorial Museum (松山市立子規記念博物館, Matsuyamashiritsu shikikinen hakubutsukan) tells the story of famous haiku poet Masaoka Shiki and contains many other historic pieces of Matsuyama's literature as well. Matsuyama Castle Ninomaru Historic Site (松山城二之丸史跡庭園,Matsuyamajou ninomaru shisekikouen), which is also referred to as “Lovers Sanctuary”(恋人の聖地, Koibito no seichi), is a garden designed to recreate that of the Matsuyama feudal lord's residence and is popular with couples. It is also popular as a pre-wedding photography spot. Finally, from 0:53, they introduce Matsuyama Castle, a sightseeing spot you can't afford to miss on your trip to Ehime prefecture. As one of only 12 castles in Japan built before the Edo period (in 1603), this castle and castle tower are a must-see for history buffs and castle fans alike. There is also a brilliant view from the castle tower which overlooks the city out onto the Seto Inland Sea (瀬戸内海, Setonaikai), and the castle is also a popular cherry blossom viewing spot in the spring. Matsuyama sightseeing introduction summed up You can see all of the sightseeing destinations mentioned in this article in the video "Matsuyama city sightseeing spots and attractions." From hot springs and historic landmarks to cultural facilities such as museums and exhibitions, please use our video as inspiration for your next trip to Matsuyama! We hope after watching our video you are eager to visit! 【Official Website】Matsuyama City Hall https://www.city.matsuyama.ehime.jp/multilingual.html 【Official Website】Matsuyama tourist information site https://en.matsuyama-sightseeing.com/

The Cute Akita Dogs of Japan This video, titled "Akita dogs - Loyal Japanese Dogs" (秋田犬 〜忠誠心に厚い日本の犬〜), is an introductory video that shares the charm of Akita dogs, famous for Shibuya Station’s Loyal Dog Hachiko. The video was produced by "JVT Channel." The Akita is a Japanese dog that has been designated a national natural treasure and is very familiar to the Japanese people. Loyal and gentle, the Akita is a popular dog in other countries as well. In this article, we'll take a look at the adorable Akita! The Akita Photo：Akita dog Akita, not to be confused with the prefecture of the same name, are a Japanese dog breed. Their gentle and loyal nature has made them a popular dog around the world. They have a lovely round face, triangular ears, and a curled-up tail. The Akita Dog comes in a variety of coat colors, such as brindle, but the most common color is red fawn. The red variety has a reddish-brown tinge around the forehead and on the back. They are sold at pet stores at prices ranging from 60,000 to 120,000 yen. It is the only large dog among the six types of dogs native to Japan and stands about 61-67 cm tall, with a life span of 10-13 years, which is the average for large dogs. Contrary to its larger size, their gentle characteristic are one of the main reasons for their popularity. You can see the features of the Akita dog at 0:07 in the video. The Akita dog's ancestors lived in the city of Odate, Akita Prefecture, in the Tohoku region of Japan. After dogfighting became popular in Japan, the Akita was crossed with the Tosa Inu and Mastiffs and became larger, which led to their current form today. Since they are large dogs, they need to be trained from when they are puppies and need to be walked regularly, as they were originally hunting dogs. The Charm of Akita Dogs - Obedient and Energetic Pets Photo：Akita Dog The charm of Akita dogs are their cute faces and gentle nature. There are several types of Japanese dogs, including the small Shiba Inu (dog), and the medium-sized Kishu inu, Shikoku inu, Hokkaido inu, and Kai inu, but among them, Akita dogs are considered the most loyal and gentle. At 0:47 in the video, you can see the bronze statue of Hachiko in front of Shibuya station in Tokyo, where he waited for his master every day, for nearly 10 years after his master had already passed away. His loyalty is still praised today. The original Akita dog was bred as the Akita Matagi (a hunting dog), but the number of Akita dogs has declined dramatically in recent years due to the growing popularity of small, easy-to-keep dogs and other indoor breeds. However, in recent years, the Akita has begun to attract attention again! There was a news that an Akita dog was sent as a gift to the Russian figure skater gold medalist Alina Zagitova, and she named it "Masaru." In addition to Zagitova, many foreigners have become fascinated by the Akita, and more and more people are adopting them as pets. Source :YouTube screenshot The city of Odate in Akita Prefecture, the birthplace of the Akita dog, is also working to promote the dog's appeal to a wider audience. They visit nursing homes and elementary schools to allow communities to interact with them. You can see this at 2:10 in the video. In Odate, you can also visit Akita Inu no Sato (Akita Dog Visitor Center) and interact with the dogs. Summary of the Cute and Gentle Akita Dogs Photo：Akita Dog The video, "Akita dogs - Loyal Japanese Dogs," produced by "JVT Channel" is an introductory video that shares the charm of Akita dogs. Although the number of Akita dogs is decreasing due to the popularity of small, easy-to-keep dogs, the Akita is by far the cutest and most loyal. They are loyal to their owners, and their gentle nature attracts many people. If you're a dog lover, this video is a must watch!

Video Introduction of Suimeikan, a Gero Onsen Ryokan in Gero City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan Looking for an awesome ryokan (Japanese style inn) where you can visit some amazing hot springs? Well, look no further! This is the perfect video for people who want to do just that! Relax at the perfect ryokan for visiting Gero City, Gifu Prefecture in Japan's Tokai Region, a popular tourist spot in Japan. This video, titled "(Official) Gero Onsen 'Suimeikan'" (【公式】下呂温泉「水明館」), was created by "Suimeikan." It's a promotional video for the popular ryokan "Suimeikan," located at Gero Onsen (Gero Hot Springs). This video is filled with the attractions of Suimeikan: its Japanese-style landscape, the soothing hot springs, and the delicious Hida beef dishes. Suimeikan has received high ratings on hotel/ryokan review sites and comparison sites as well. This article will introduce the attractions and information regarding Suimeikan alongside the video. Before we begin, immerse yourself in the experience of Suimeikan through the video. What is Suimeikan? Source :YouTube screenshot Suimeikan, a ryokan that you will certainly want to stay in if you are visiting Gero City, is a historical ryokan that has been in business since 1932 (Showa 7). This Japanese style hotel values the spirit of hospitality, soothing its visitors with services such as personally prepared tea. Suimeikan is lined up alongside the Hida River and consists of 4 buildings, each containing unique and distinct rooms. The 4 buildings consist of "Rinsenkaku," an elegant space that emphasizes traditional beauty, "Hisenkaku," which combines the best of both Japanese and Western style, "Sansuikan," which prioritizes traditional design, and "Hanare Seiransou," 5 Sukiya-style rooms. ・Rinsenkaku Four types of rooms: Japanese-style rooms, Japanese-Western-style rooms, rooms with open-air baths, and guest rooms. All rooms feature a hot spring bath made of Koyamaki cedar, room service provided by the head chef, rooms with an open-air bath overlooking the Hida River, and a balcony on which to enjoy the view of the Gero city. ・Hisenkaku Four types of rooms: Japanese-style rooms, Japanese-Western-style rooms, single rooms, and special rooms. The hotel features a wide range of room types from single rooms to spacious Japanese-Western-style rooms, a large bath with a great view from the top floor, Japanese-Western-style rooms with few steps that make it easy to move around, and a reception lounge on the first floor. ・Sansuikaku There are six types of rooms: Japanese-style rooms, Japanese-Western style rooms, Renewal Japanese-Western style rooms, Special rooms, Twin/Triple rooms with a Japanese antechamber, and Twin rooms. Its main features are a “special room” where you can lose track of time watching the koi fish swim about. The large boulders, beautiful nature, endless blue skies, open-air hot spring, and hot spring pool make for the ultimate relaxation experience. ・Seiransou The names of the rooms are taken from The Tale of Genji, and there are five rooms in total: "Aoi-no-Ma," "Yugao-no-Ma," "Takekawa," "Koubai," and "Kashiwagi-no-Ma. It's a luxurious space with a tatami hallway. The cuisine is a special menu prepared by the head chef of Seiranso, using carefully selected ingredients of the day. Each room is equipped with a full range of amenities. Information About Suimeikan's Facilities Source :YouTube screenshot There is a place within Suimeikan where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Japanese Garden. If you enjoy the view while relaxing in a yukata, all of your worries are sure to melt away! You can see the Japanese garden at 1:38 in the video. One of the attractions of Suimeikan is that you can enjoy your time in the way that best suits you. Suimeikan has various inside facilities such as the beauty salon, "Salon de Couleur," on the top floor of Hisenkaku, the inside pool "Suimei Health Club," the lobby lounge "Evian," the bar "Marone," the shop, "Club Jurien," and the karaoke room. You can also enjoy a variety of delicious meals at Suimeikan! Hida beef, with its high-quality fat, is especially delicious and is a must-try! You can observe the meals at 1:08 in the video. Suimeikan offers a variety of food choices and services suited to your preferences, such as restaurants that offer private rooms and lunch menus, "Heyashoku" where you can enjoy Japanese dishes crafted by the head chef with tasty seasonal ingredients, the European-style restaurant "Baden Baden," the Chinese restaurant / Chinese room "Ryuyuri," the Japanese restaurant "Kitanoryou," and "Dining Tokiwa." About Suimeikan at Gero Onsen Source :YouTube screenshot Gero city, a famous Japanese tourist site, is a nature-rich area surrounded by mountains. Gero Onsen has been chosen as one of the three best hot springs of Japan, there is also a "Legend of the White Eagle," which says that when the water at Gero Onsen stopped flowing, a white eaglet (which was the incarnation of Bhaisajyaguru) made the water start flowing again. You can observe the hot spring at 0:51 in the video. Gero Onsen's spring water is simple alkaline spring water, which is excellent for achieving beautiful skin. The spring is effective against: motor organ disorders, rheumatism, nerve paralysis, post-illness recovery, and recovery from fatigue, and is also good for beauty and health. At Suimeikan, you can enjoy the water flowing directly from the hot spring source with Shimotome hot water, open-air hot springs, large public baths with a beautiful view, reserved open-air hot springs and bedrock baths. You can observe not just the lush green mountains and the Hida river, but also a view of Gero city. It is possible to enter the open-air hot springs and large public bath without staying at the hotel as well. Many people, including men who are tired from work and women who are looking for beauty treatments, visit Gero Onsen to take a bath. Please try the various types of hot springs and find your favorite! Tourist Attractions Around Suimeikan There are many tourist attractions surrounding Suimeikan. Some of these attractions include: Gero Onsen Gasshou Village (下呂温泉合掌村), Gero Onsen Shrine (下呂温泉神社), Onsenji Temple (温泉寺), Nakayama Shichiri (中山七里), Yokoya Gorge (横谷峡), Gandate Gorge (巌立峡), Okuhida Shuzo Brewery (奥飛騨酒造), Gero Onsen deyu Morning Market (下呂温泉 いでゆ朝市), Roadside Station Minamihidaosaka Hanamomo (道の駅 南飛騨小坂はなもも), Roadside Station Hidakanayama Nukumori no Sato Onsen (道の駅 飛騨金山ぬく森の里温泉), Marukarinosato Kuno River (まるかりの里 久野川), Roadside Station Maze Mikinosato (道の駅 馬瀬 美輝の里), Jakoushimizu (麝香清水), Seiryu Maze River (清流馬瀬川), Senshoji Temple (禅昌寺), Johukuji Temple (浄福寺), Tochimoto Farm (杤本農園), Mazekaore Health Farm (まぜ川上健康農園), and Kaeru Shrine (加恵瑠神社). Summary of Suimeikan Access to Gifu Prefecture's Suimeikan is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by train from Nagoya Station, and the nearest station is Gero Station on the Takayamamoto Line, and it is a 3 minute walk from Suimeikan. Suimeikan is full of relaxing hot springs, delicious meals, tourist spots, and various facilities! Please watch the video and find your favorite thing about Suimeikan! Room rates and prices may vary by season, room and plan, please check the official website or travel websites for booking availability. Suimeikan is the best place to stay when you visit Gifu Prefecture. You can only experience the pleasure of bathing at Gero Onsen, surrounded by Instagram-worthy scenery, here! ◆Gero Onsen's "Suimeikan" Facility Overview◆ 【Address】〒509-2206 1268 Koden, Gero City, Gifu Prefecture 【Access】Takayama Main Line, 3-minute walk from Gero Station 【Parking】Yes. Can fit about 200 vehicles 【Telephone No】0576-25-2801 【Official Website】Gero Onsen Suimeikan 【Official】Guaranteed Lowest Price https://www.suimeikan.co.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Gero Onsen Suimeikan https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g788306-d584914-Reviews-Suimeikan-Gero_Gifu_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Charming Videos of Higashi-Izu Town, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka Prefecture This article is all about the introductory video "Higashi-Izu Town - Seaside and Mountains in the Sky - Long Version"（東伊豆町 ～満点の海山空～ ロングVer.), filmed by “higashiizu.” If you're going on a trip, it's good to visit a place where there are plenty of attractions for the whole family to enjoy. If you fancy a bit of splurge, why not stay at some luxurious hotels or ryokan (Japanese-style inns) where you can enjoy delicious gourmet cuisine. If you're up for it, we recommend the town of Higashi-Izu in Shizuoka Prefecture, where you can enjoy leisure facilities and spectacular scenery. You'll see a lot of popular tourist spots introduced in this video, that both Japanese and foreign visitors can enjoy! Follow along with the video to see the beauty of Higashi-Izu Town in Shizuoka Prefecture! Something for Everyone to Enjoy Higashi-Izu boasts a wide range of touristic attractions for all generations to enjoy. Source :YouTube screenshot At the beginning of the video, you can see Hina dolls lined up on the steps of a shrine. Hina dolls are Japanese dolls, only displayed on “Hina Matsuri” (Doll’s Festival), that is a traditional annual event to pray for the healthy growth of girls. The Hina Doll decorations on the steps of Susanoo-Jinja Shrine are a sight to behold and will definitely look good on Instagram! There are a total of 118 steps decorated with Hina dolls! Atagawa Tropical & Alligator Garden is shown next. It is located close to the station, being only a 1-minute walk from Izu Atagawa Station off the Izu Kyuko Line. With water lilies, fruit trees and other natural spots, this is a theme park that adults can enjoy as well. During Golden Week and other holidays, events where you can interact with giraffes and other animals are held. Thanks to a warm climate, Higashi-Izu in Shizuoka Prefecture produces a wide range of fresh fruits such as Mikan (mandarin oranges) and strawberries. Some fruit farms welcome visitors with mikan-picking and strawberry-picking experiences when they're in season Have a picking contest with your family and then see who can eat the most! Enjoy Spectacular Views of Nature All Throughout the Day! Source :YouTube screenshot Inatori Hosono Kogen is a must-visit place in Higashi-Izu. It is shown in the video from 2:44 “Inatori Hosono Kogen” offers visitors a magnificent panoramic view of nature during daytime and a breathtaking star-filled night sky in the evening. It truly feels as though time has stopped. The video does a pretty good job at showing what it's like, but as one might expect of something so beautiful, it pales in comparison to the real thing. Just looking up at the bright stars in the sky is enough to have you feeling refreshed. You will be surprised and pleased to find that such an amazing place exists in Higashi-Izu. Even during the day, the landscape is vast and expansive, and you can feel the amazement and excitement from this video as it shows wind turbines spinning atop the hills with silver grasses fluttering in the wind. You'll discover more and more about the beautiful town each time you watch the video. Atagawa Ishihiki Dokan: A Well-Known Festival in Higashi-Izu Source :YouTube screenshot Higashi-Izu holds the famous “Atagawa Ishihiki Dokan Festival,” which is another must-see attraction. It is shown in the video from 5:03. The festival is held on the Atagawa Kaigan Dori street and its notable procession, Oishi-hiki (a procession pulling a sacred stone), starts from the Atagawa Yamato-kan hotel. The Atagawa Yamato-kan hotel is easily accessible from Izu Atagawa Onsen Station, at just 8 minutes on foot. What makes the festival special is the unique performance of strong men all pulling one big, heavy, square-shaped stone. If you want to see powerful performances and magnificent fireworks, this is definitely the place to visit. Another must-see feature is “Kashima Odori,” a dancing event held at Kashima shrine! It is a good opportunity for you to experience traditional Japanese culture. More Places to See in Higashi-Izu! Source :Kitagawa Onsen Tourism Association There's still more touristic attractions to visit in Higashi-Izu! Being nominated as one of Japan's "Top 100 Moon Views," "Izu Kitagawa Onsen Moon Road" is also famous as a sacred place with spiritual energy and it's said that visitors may receive divine favor in the form of romantic luck, marriage fortune, and being blessed with children. You can also visit the popular "Kurone Iwa-buro," a stone bath where you can enjoy the beautiful ocean scenery from an open-air spa. An Onsen Ryokan (Japanese inn with hot spring facilities) is a good option for you to experience Iwa-buro. At Higashi-Izu onsen, "Tsuruya Kisshotei" and "Bousui" are two places we recommend staying at. The local cuisine is also something you don't want o pass up when you're in Higashi-Izu. If you're looking for fresh seafood, look no further than "Minato no Asaichi Market," a morning market held at the Higashi-Izu Town Office Parking Lot. You can also enjoy gourmet food such as the delicious, fatty "Inadori Kinmei" (A type of fish). If you're a golfer, then Inatori Golf Club is one of the best options for you, as it provides visitors with the Higashi-Izu cross country course. Playing golf while looking out over the natural landscape of the town of Higashi-Izu is an exhilarating experience. Summary of Higashi-Izu This article may have introduced a lot of fascinating places in Higashi-Izu, but there's still more. There are plenty more charms the city has left to offer. If you're interested, be sure to investigate more about what the city has to offer! The town entertains both Japanese and foreign visitors alike with its beautiful landscape and myriad of sightseeing destinations. You're always welcome to visit the charming town, Higashi-Izu, in Shizuoka! 【Official Website】Izu Animal Kingdom http://www.izu-kamori.jp/izu-biopark/en/