Official Author

鈴木 正孝（Masataka Suzuki）

The Beautiful Sights of Miyagi Prefecture This video, titled "A Journey to the Light｜Miyagi Prefecture｜Long Version" (光に出会う旅　宮城県　ロングバージョン), was released by Miyagi Tourism. If you're thinking of going sightseeing to feel the unique essence of Japan, then why not come and feel the light of Japan in Miyagi prefecture. Miyagi Prefecture offers a variety of events and unique cherry blossom viewing spots. It's a great place to get a taste of Japanese tradition and culture. Enjoy the breathtaking atmosphere in the video. Cherry Blossoms in Miyagi Prefecture If you're looking to enjoy the cherry blossoms in Miyagi Prefecture, we recommend checking out the Hitome Senbonzakura (一目千本桜) at the Shiroishi River Bank in Shibata, Miyagi. The 1,200 cherry trees, mainly yoshino cherry trees, are a sight to behold. During the cherry blossom festival at Shiraishi Park, the cherry blossoms are lit up at night, making it a great place for taking Instagram pics! You can feel the unique and fantastic atmosphere of the illuminated cherry blossoms in the video as well. The combination of the cherry blossoms and lights at night create a fantastical atmosphere. Events to enjoy in Miyagi Prefecture When most people hear Miyagi Prefecture, they think of the Sendai Tanabata Festival, the number one Tanabata festival in Japan. Every year, thousands of tourists flock to this festival.But that's not all that Miyagi has to offer. At the Sairi Night of Illusions (齋理幻夜) in Marumori, countless lanterns are decorated to create a fantastic atmosphere reminiscent of the Taisho era. A lantern floating ceremony is also held in Matsushima. Miyagi Prefecture is full of events. If you plan your trip to line up with the events and festivals, you're sure to have an amazing time! Enjoy the Flavors of Miyagi Prefecture Gourmet food is an essential part of sightseeing in Miyagi Prefecture. That being said, one dish we recommend is wasabi-don (a bowl of rice topped with wasabi and other ingredients). It's delicious just with fresh wasabi, but sometimes it's served with beef, so it's a must-try dish when visiting Miyagi Prefecture. There are also other specialties, such as Sendai Seri (Japanese parsley) Hot Pot, and if you fancy yourself some spirits, you'll definitely enjoy it with some sake, such as Abe Kan, Hakurakusei, Hagi no Tsuru, or Ichinokura! Enjoying Nature in Miyagi Prefecture When traveling in Miyagi Prefecture, the great outdoors are a major appeal of the area. Speaking of nature in Miyagi Prefecture, the the Matsushima Archipelago is one of the three most scenic spots in Japan. In addition, there are many tourist attractions such as Kabukuri-numa, Anbasan (Anba Mountain), Saga-kei Gorge, and more. Summary of Sightseeing Destinations in Miyagi Prefecture In Miyagi Prefecture, you can enjoy delicious food while enjoying nature and Japanese culture through various events. There are too many places to cover everything in one article. Come to Miyagi Prefecture and experience the awesomeness of it all for yourself!

WORKMAN's Camping Equipment WORKMAN is known in Japan for working wear, winter clothes, safety shoes, etc. However, in recent years, WORKMAN's outdoor products have also been attracting attention. In this article, we introduce a video review of five pieces of WORKMAN equipment. A WORKMAN Camping Gear Review for Beginners! This video, titled "Reviewing Five Pieces of Workman's New 2021 Spring/Summer Camping Gear! Lots of Gear for Beginner Campers!" (ワークマンの2021春夏新作キャンプギア5選をレビュー！これからキャンプを始める初心者向けのギアが満載だった！), was uploaded by "SLOWCAMP." Workman, well-known for its work clothes, also offers a full lineup of outdoor gear! There is a wide variety of fashionable and useful items available. In this article, we'll introduce 5 pieces of camping gear all available for under 1,000 yen! For beginners who are just getting into camping, expensive camping gear can be a bit of a hurdle. Being able to get cheap, but reliable gear will ensure you can have a good time. The Easy-To-Use 'Compact Hammer' Source :YouTube screenshot This simple and compact hammer costs 680 yen (tax included). The video also compares its size and other features with a standard stake hammer. Despite its small size, it's a highly rated hammer due to the deep indentations on the handle, which allow for a firm grip. The shape of the hammer, however, is not designed for removing stakes. In the video, you can see how the stakes are hammered into the ground. [Video] 0:22 - Compact hammer The Fine-Pitched 'Hybrid Saw' Source :YouTube screenshot The Hybrid Saw, which combines a saw and a box cutter into one, costs 980 yen (tax included). It's made with a firm grip, making it easy to hold and cut with. Compared to a Daiso saw, the pitch of the blade is finer. The saw cuts better than its slender appearance would leave you to believe! The fine pitch of the blade makes the cuts clean and neat. Even hardwoods can be cut with no problem. It can also handle branches and firewood quite well. [Video] 6:00 - Cutting a Branch With the Hybrid Saw The box cutter can be used in a variety of situations. In the video, it's used to make wood shavings for making fire. [Video] 2:54 - Hybrid Saw 'Wide Multi Hook' Carabiners for Hanging Objects Source :YouTube screenshot The carabiner with hook is 499 yen (tax included). Since space is limited inside a tent, hanging camping gear on ropes is a good way to save space. The Wide Multi Hook is useful for such situations. Check out the comparison with a 100-yen product in the video! [Video] 7:40 - Wide Multi Hook Nylon 'Para Mate' Paracord Source :YouTube screenshot The 4mm x 15m nylon Para Mate paracord costs 350 yen. It's mainly used for securing tents and putting up tarps. In the video, you can see it being attached to a stake hammer or saw as a cord. Para Mate paracord can also be used for other purposes, such as wrapping it around the handle of a sierra cup to protect it from the heat of a fire, or to protect and reinforce gear such as axes. [Video] 9:16 - Para Mate Paracord '2way All In One Bag' for Organizing Gear Source :YouTube screenshot The 2way All In One Bag (980 yen, tax included) is useful for storing compact camping gear. Thanks to the shoulder belt, it can be used as a shoulder bag or hung from the waist. [Video] 11:50 - 2way All In One Bag Storing Camping Gear How do you store your camping gear? As you continue to go camping, the amount of gear you have tends to increase as well. It's important to think about how to store your gear so that when you feel like camping, you're not left trying to remember where you put it. First, make room for a dedicated shelf for your camping gear. Arrange your gear at the right height on each shelf for a clean look. Compact camping gear should be stored in storage bags or other containers according to their purpose so that they don't fall apart. Some camping gear can even be displayed decoratively. Displaying your camping gear neatly can also keep you in high spirits while thinking about your next camping trip. Summary of Camping Gear for Beginners Solo camping is popular in Japan these days. Reasonably-priced but practical camping gear is easy to prepare and less burdensome. If you're thinking about going camping, be sure to check out this video to help you choose the right camping gear!

Fairlady Z" video produced by a store specializing in old cars in Okazaki, Aichi Prefecture, Japan. "RockyAuto｜Fairlady Z S30Z 240ZG RB Engine｜The Joy of Driving a Classic Car with an RB Engine｜Convenient and High-Speed, A Special Tailormade Car" (ロッキーオート　フェアレディーZ　S30Z 240ZG RBエンジン搭載の旧車で走る楽しさを　快適・快速オーナー様だけの特別な1台を), created by "RockyAuto," is a video introducing the Fairlady Z, made by the classic car shop, "RockyAuto." The first generation S30 series Fair Lady Z, revived in the modern era with an RB engine and the light body of a classic car, makes for an awesome drive. Its cool exterior is also impressive, making this video a must-see for car lovers. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the popular Fair Lady Z. The Fairlady Z - All the Charms of a Classic Source :YouTube screenshot The Fairlady Z, sold by classic car shop RockyAuto, is a practical car equipped with an RB engine, air conditioning, and power steering, and can be driven with everyday use in mind. By refurbishing a classic car with newer features, the Fairlady Z has been reborn to provide a safe and convenient driving experience. You can see an orange Fairlady Z being taken for a spin at 4:26 in the video. Rocky Auto carries Fairlady Z models, such as the S30Z, 240ZG, Skyline GT-R, and the Toyota 2000GT. Although made to order, it also carries the Kenmeri GT-R and Hakosuka, the 8th generation model of the Nissan Skyline. The shop is popular among car lovers, including lovers of classic cars, historic cars, and even vintage cars. The name "Fairlady" was inherited from the Datsun Fairlady and named after the musical "My Fair Lady." The exports are known as 'DATSUN' and 'NISSAN.' Source :YouTube screenshot The Fair Lady Z's RB engine has the performance of an updated version of the classic, making it usable as an everyday vehicle. A characteristic of the engine is that it does not overheat and does not require much maintenance, something uncommon in classic cars. There are various types of RB engines, including the RB26DETT and RB26 Twin Turbo. You can see the engine of the Fairlady Z at 0:50 in the video, and even hear the beautiful sound it makes when giving it gas and when idling. What Are Classic Cars? Source :YouTube screenshot Classics refer to cars and motorcycles manufactured more than a few decades ago. Older models are called classic cars, while cars manufactured between 1919 and 1930 are sometimes classified as vintage cars. Classic car enthusiasts often buy older cars that have been serviced from specialty shops, or acquire them through restoration. Old cars from the 1960's and 1970's were often owned by the younger generation of that time, but they were difficult to maintain were often given away. The rare cars that remain are now sold at premium prices. Summary of the Fairlady Z Source :YouTube screenshot RockyAuto's Fairlady Z is a fast and reliable vehicle that still has that classic engine purr. The video showcases the beautiful vehicle in its newly restored glory. Rocky Auto classic can be customized with engines and turbos to your liking, allowing you to create your dream car. If you’re interested, be sure to check out the video!

九州の人気観光地・鹿児島県姶良市紹介動画について こちらの動画は「姶良市公式youtubeチャンネル」が公開した「姶良市PR動画「AIRA CITY」（full version）」です。 今回は鹿児島県の姶良市（あいらし）を紹介します。 こちら記事では、日本のおすすめの観光地である鹿児島県姶良市の情報や、おすすめの穴場スポットなどを紹介します。 九州の人気観光地・鹿児島県姶良市とは 九州のおすすめ観光地の姶良市は、鹿児島県の中央に位置する町です。 自然、歴史、文化、特産品、温泉とさまざま観光資源がある魅力のある観光地で、鹿児島を旅行する際にはぜひ寄りたいエリア。 活火山である桜島の景勝を楽しんだり、緑豊かな山々に癒されたりと自然が好きな方にとくにおすすめの場所です。 鹿児島県姶良市で自然、伝統文化を思う存分体験し、心に残る旅の思い出にしましょう。 九州の人気観光地・鹿児島県姶良市の景勝エリア 日本のおすすめの観光地である鹿児島県姶良市には、自然の美しい景観を楽しめるスポットがたくさんあります。 まず、おすすめの観光スポットは龍門滝。 龍門滝は「日本の滝百選」にも選ばれた日本を代表する滝。 46メートルの高さから流れ落ちる滝はとても雄大で、見るものを圧倒させる力があります。 続いてのおすすめが、美しいアーチが特徴の金山橋です。 金山橋は明治12年頃に築かれた歴史ある石橋。 近くにある板井手の滝とのコントラストが美しく、インスタ映えのおすすめの撮影スポットでもあります。 他にも、網掛川や錦江湾、重富海水浴場、布引の滝、龍門司坂など鹿児島県姶良市には絶景を楽しめるスポットがたくさんあります。 九州の人気観光地・鹿児島県姶良市の伝統文化 九州のおすすめの観光地、鹿児島県姶良市は、伝統工芸が盛んな観光地でもあります。 300年以上の歴史がある伝統工芸の龍門司焼は、薩摩を代表する焼き物として有名。 帖佐人形は、鹿児島県姶良市に残る伝統工芸で鹿児島県の伝統的工芸品にも選ばれています。 他にも、和紙漉きが楽しめるなど、鹿児島県姶良市の魅力的な伝統文化を体験できるスポットがあります。 九州の人気観光地・鹿児島県姶良市の紹介まとめ こちらの動画は鹿児島県姶良市のおすすめの観光地を美しい映像でご覧になることができます。 美しい自然や歴史のある伝統文化を楽しめる鹿児島県姶良市。 九州観光の際には、鹿児島姶良市に是非、足をお運びください！

伝統工芸品美濃焼紹介動画について こちらの動画は「瑞浪市大好き」が公開した「美濃焼観光PRムービー　瑞浪市観光協会」です。 食事をするときに、綺麗な食器が使われていると目でも楽しめテンションがあがりますよね。 こちらの記事では、日本の伝統工芸である美濃焼の特徴や種類、作り方などを動画とともに紹介します。 日本の伝統工芸である美濃焼とは 日本の代表的な伝統工芸である美濃焼は産地が数箇所あり、岐阜県の瑞浪市、土岐市、多治見市などで作られています。 お皿や、茶碗、マグカップ、コーヒーカップなどさまざまな種類のある美濃焼は、丈夫で使いやすくとても人気。 デザインも多種多様で様々な料理に合わせやすく、日本の食卓を支えている食器です。 お洒落な美濃焼は、陶磁器の生産量が日本一で、日本人の暮らしを支えている食器と言えるでしょう。 美しい陶器の美濃焼を使って、日々の食事を楽しみましょう。 日本の伝統工芸である美濃焼の作り方 芸術品のような美しさを持つ美濃焼は、職人の手仕事によって作られていきます。 ではその制作工程を簡単に紹介します。 まず、土練りと言われる工程で土を練っていきます。 続いてに成形し、形を作っていきます。 その後、天日干しなどで乾燥。 乾燥させる時間は、作品の大きさや素材の厚さによって変わります。 成形し乾燥させたら、700度から800度の窯元で焼き上げ。 下絵を書き、作品の強化のために釉薬をかけていきます。 釉薬をかけたら本焼きで、高温で焼成していきます。 本焼きが終わったら、上絵用の絵具で絵を描いて、また700から800度で焼き上げて完成です。 日本の伝統工芸である美濃焼を購入する 日本の伝統工芸である美濃焼は、岐阜県の美濃地方以外ではネットショップで購入するのがおすすめ。 また、岐阜県多治見市では美濃焼ミュージアムがあります。 各時代の焼き物が展示されており、伝統工芸品が好きな方が満足できる施設になっています。 日本の伝統工芸である美濃焼紹介まとめ こちらの動画では岐阜県美濃地方の歴史や美濃焼の職人技をご覧になることができ、とても興味深い内容になっています。 日本で人気の食器である美濃焼。 この記事を読んで興味を持たれた方はぜひ動画をご覧ください。

九州の人気観光地・福岡県柳川市をご当地アイドルが紹介！ こちらの動画は「柳川フィルムコミッション」が公開した「【柳川市観光PRビデオ】SAGEMON GIRLS　さげもんガールズ」です。 福岡県はおいしい食べ物や人気観光がいっぱいの魅力ある日本のおすすめの観光地。 そんな福岡県でグルメや観光も楽しめるエリアを探している人はいませんか？ 今回は福岡県の柳川市を紹介したいと思います。 こちら記事では、福岡県の柳川市の人気スポットや、おすすめグルメなどを動画と共に紹介したいと思います。 福岡県柳川市のご当地アイドル「さげもんガールズ」の可愛いダンスも堪能ください 九州の人気観光地・福岡県柳川市とは 九州のおすすめ観光地のひとつ柳川市は、福岡県の南部、筑後地方の南西部に位置します。 筑後地方の主要都市のひとつで、さまざまな魅力のある都市です。 柳川の川下り体験や相撲、有明海でとれた柳川産のりやうなぎ料理など、観光やグルメで楽しめるスポットがたくさんあります。 福岡県柳川市は福岡の天神駅から西鉄電車で約50分で行くことができるので、福岡で観光する際にはぜひ立ち寄ってみてください。 九州の人気観光地・福岡県柳川市のおすすめスポット 人気観光地の福岡県の柳川市には、おすすめの観光スポットがたくさんあります。 まず、歴史が好きな人やパワースポットに行きたい人におすすめなのが三柱神社と日吉神社。 ともに由緒正しい神社で参拝すれば気が引き締まります。 長命寺や沖端水天宮も福岡県柳川市の有名な歴史スポットです。 柳川藩主立花邸御花も歴史を体感できる国指定名勝。 庭園が当時のままに残り、美しい景観を楽しめる名所です。 ほっと一息つきたい場合には、「からたち文人の足湯」がおすすめ。 足湯エリアには柳川ゆかりの文人たちの写真などが飾られており、歴史が好きな人も楽しめます。 ゆっくり足湯に浸かりながら、写真を眺めれば心癒される時間になるでしょう。 九州の人気観光地・福岡県柳川市のおすすめグルメ 日本の観光地である福岡の柳川市にはおすすめのグルメもあります。 うなぎは食べログで高評価のお店が多く、柳川市に訪れたときには必ず食べておきたい日本料理。 うなぎ料理の他にも、柳川産味噌や米せんべいなどが有名。 美味しいグルメを楽しんで最高の旅の思い出にしましょう。 九州の人気観光地・福岡県柳川市紹介まとめ こちらの動画は福岡県柳川市の人気ご当地アイドル「さげもんガールズ」のかわいい踊りと一緒に、柳川市のおすすめの観光スポットが紹介されています。 観光スポットとおいしいグルメがたのしめる福岡県の柳川市。 気になる方はぜひ観光に訪れてみてはいかがですか。

新潟県新発田（しばた）市の観光スポットが丸わかりになる動画の紹介 こちらの動画は「新発田市観光協会」が公開した「新発田市観光PRムービー」です。 新潟県北部下越地方にある新発田市（しばた）にある沢山の観光名所を堪能することが出来る動画となっています。 日本の歴史とも深い関りのある新潟県新発田市は新潟のみならず、日本でも屈指の観光スポットとして人気であり、日本の文化を知るには欠かせない場所となっています。 この記事では、そんな新潟県新発田市の観光名所や絶景、古くから伝わる歴史や伝統のグルメ等の耳より情報を動画と共に紹介いたします。 新潟県新発田市の新発田城とその周辺観光について！ 新潟県新発田市の中でもひと際日本の歴史を感じさせる建造物と言えば、動画の0:58でご覧になることが出来る新発田城（別名：あやめ城）でしょう。 築城時期が不明とされている城ではあるものの、鎌倉時代初期にはあったことから、佐々木盛綱の傍系である新発田氏によって築城されたのではと言われています。 その周辺には、動画の1:25ご覧になれる寺町通りもあり、日本の歴史を感じることのできる新潟県でも屈指の観光スポットとなっています。 国指定名勝の清水園について！ 動画の2:01から紹介されている清水園は、こちらも日本の新潟県の観光スポットとして有名なスポットとされています。 清水園には、日本の自然に溢れた近江八景を取り入れており、その中には日本の国指定重要文化財ともされている足軽の歴史を知ることが出来る足軽長屋もあります。 撮影も自由ということから、自然と歴史が堪能出来るこの観光スポットでインスタ映えを狙ってみるのもまた良いのではないでしょうか。 観光だけでは終わらない新潟県新発田市の魅力！ 新潟県新発田市観光ではグルメや温泉等も忘れてはいけません。 動画の3:32で紹介をされている和菓子は、伝統の職人技によってまるで芸術品のような素晴らしい出来であることが分かるのではないでしょうか。 動画の6:14で紹介されているレトロな雰囲気残る歴史深い新道・掛蔵地区では、新潟県の地産地消の寿司等のグルメを堪能したり、お土産を買うこともできます。 そして旅の疲れは『美人をつくる温泉』と名高い月岡温泉で癒すことで、新潟県新発田市を余すことなく堪能出来るでしょう。 新潟県新発田市の観光の紹介まとめ 多くの観光スポットと日本の歴史深い建造物が存在する新潟県新発田市。 こちらの記事で紹介した観光スポットの他にも、堀部安兵衛生誕地、大正・昭和の歴史を堪能することが出来る蕗谷虹児記念館、そして新潟県新発田市が産んだ人間国宝『天田昭次』について知ることが出来る刀剣伝承館・天田昭次記念館等も見逃せない観光スポットとなっています。 毎年8月の中旬には、城下町新発田まつりも開催されます。 今回紹介させて頂いた動画とこの記事で新潟県新発田市に興味を持たれた方は、ぜひ一度実際に新潟県新発田市へ足を運んでみてはいかがでしょうか？

About the Ika Somen Recipe Video Many people are probably used to preparing sashimi from already prepared sections of fish, but it's rare that people fillet fish and make sashimi from scratch at home. Preparing Japanese food may also seem like an incredibly time consuming task if you aren't Japanese yourself. In this video, the chef demonstrates how to fillet and prepare spear squid, called yariika in Japanese (ヤリイカ), to make the dish Ika Somen. The tips and techniques shown in this video are a must-see for anyone interested in Japanese cuisine! Preparing the Squid to Make Ika Somen Photo：Squid sashimi Preparation is the key to making delicious Japanese food. The majority of people who eat sashimi at home tend to buy it already prepared from the supermarket as the process of making it (filleting squid in particular) is rather complicated. This video will show you how to fillet and prepare squid, a useful skill which can be applied to a variety of Japanese dishes. Please feel free to refer to this article whenever you need a reminder of how to prepare squid! First, the squid's innards must be removed. Place your hand inside the body of the squid and simply pull out the innards. Pinching the fins at the top of the squids body while removing the innards will make this step easier. Next, the cartilage must be removed from inside of the body of the squid. Tips to Make Your Ika Somen Taste Delicious Source :YouTube screenshot It's important to properly remove all of the skin from the squid. Holding the fins, peel off the skin of the squid from top to bottom. With the skin intact, the squid appears red, but removing the skin will reveal the white, smooth flesh underneath. After removing the skin, insert your knife into the area where the cartilage used to be and cut the squid vertically to open it up. If, after opening up the squid, you find some remaining innards, use the knife to remove them and quickly clean the flesh. Next, you must cut into the flesh near the top of the squid to help you remove the thin membrane that is attached to the inside of the body. Doing this will ensure the flesh is smooth and improve the texture of the squid. Prepare the fins of the squid in the same way. Finally, give the squid a quick rinse with cold water and use a dish cloth to remove any excess moisture. You can use the dish cloth to lightly scrub the skin in order to remove any remaining membrane or innards. This is another key tip to ensure your squid tastes delicious. Your Ika Somen is almost ready! Time to Turn the Squid Into Ika Somen Source :YouTube screenshot All that's left to do now is to line up the edges of the squid and cut the flesh into thin strips. This is the highlight of the video! To make the Ika Somen, first the outer flesh must be removed, as only the inner flesh will be used to make Ika Somen. To do this, the chef inserts the knife at one end of the flesh and carefully slices off the thin outer layer. You can see how this is done at 9:50 in the video. As you can see, this requires a lot of skill and experience to do well. Next, take the prepared squid flesh and cut it vertically into thin strips. Cutting the flesh with the knife in a pulling motion, as you would with meat or fish, is one of the fundamentals of Japanese cooking. Squid Sashimi Goes Great With Alcohol! The prepared squid sashimi, or Ika Somen, is usually served roughly mixed in a Japanese style dish. The squid is then topped with grated ginger and lightly dressed with soy sauce. It's best to mix the squid with the toppings before eating. At 13:00 in the video, you can see the squid being served alongside Japanese sake (called "nihonshu" in Japanese). If you enjoy drinking, you'll really appreciate this delicious dish that goes down smooth with a drink. In this video, the Japanese chef demonstrates how to prepare Ika Somen using fresh squid. We hope you enjoyed learning some of the tips and tricks required to prepare this dish. After watching the video, are you feeling up to making your own Ika Somen?

"Higo Zogan" - A Traditional Craft of Kumamoto Prefecture For those seeking the beauty of Japan's traditional crafts, or wondering what types of traditional handmade goods Japanese artisans make, this is the video for you! This video, "手技TEWAZA「肥後象がん」Higo Zougan Inlay," was created by "Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square" (伝統工芸 青山スクエア). This video introduces higo zogan craftsman Inada Kentaro. In the video, he is seen using the traditional methods of higo zogan to create a chopstick rest. This is a wonderful video to get a sense of the beauty of Japanese products. An Introduction to the Traditional Japanese Craft, Higo Zogan Source :YouTube screenshot Higo zogan is Kumamoto Prefecture’s traditional craft. It is a form of metalworking where gold and silver leaf are inlaid onto iron in order to create designs. Higo zogan has a long history, and was first used in sword mounts and fixtures, gun barrels, obi fasteners, and hairpins. Now, it is used to create accessories such as tie pins, necklaces, hair pins, cufflinks, loop ties, and earrings, as well as stationery such as ballpoint pens, fountain pens, paperweights, and paper-knives. Many types of products are created using higo zogan. With higo zogan’s birthplace being Kumamoto Prefecture, in recent years, higo zogan pendants featuring Kumamoto’s mascot Kumamon have also been created. The adorable designs make these pendants perfect as gifts. The beauty of Japan’s traditional craft is perfectly paired with modern designs, leading to the creation of attractive products. The Crafting Process of Higo Zogan Source :YouTube screenshot This is an introduction of higo zogan’s crafting process according to the video. The object made this time is a chopstick rest. ・Base-making (生地作り, kiji-dukuri) (0:21) The raw material, iron, is cut and then polished to smooth its corners. ・Inlay preparation (布目切り, nunome-kiri) (0:41) Using a tool called the “tagame,” grooves are carved vertically, horizontally, and diagonally. ・Inlaying and hammering (打ち込み、叩き締め, uchikomi, tatakishime) (1:10) Using a specially sized deer antler, gold or silver is inlaid onto the iron base. ・Smoothing the surface (布目消し, nunome-keshi) (1:55) Using a tool called a “kisaki,” areas with grooves are smoothed and polished. ・Rusting (錆び出し, sabidashi) (2:11) Using iron rust coloring, the surface of the product is blackened. ・Rust-proofing (錆止め, sabidome) (2:30) The product is inserted into boiling tea for rust-proofing. ・Heating (焼き付け, yakiduke) (3:02) Heating prevents the appearance of rust after aging. ・Completion The completed chopstick rest is shown from 3:17 in the video. This is all introduced in detail in the video, so definitely check it out. Purchasing Higo Zogan Products Now, we'll introduce a place to purchase higo zogan products. We recommended "Higo Zogan Mitsusuke" (肥後象嵌　光助) in Kumamoto. At this store, you can even try your hand at making accessories. From accessories such as pendants, brooches, earrings, and gold leaf paintings, to pieces of artwork - There are a multitude of items available, so definitely check them out. In addition, Higo Zogan products are also available through the Internet, so definitely try that out too! As for how to care for the products after purchase, use a dry, soft cloth or a piece of tissue to wipe the product in order to maintain its shine. Summary of Higo Zogan, the Culmination of Craftsmen's Skills Source :YouTube screenshot In the video, the process of Higo Zogan as well as the necessary materials are explained in more detail than in this article, providing an interesting introduction to Higo Zogan. There are also many products perfect as souvenirs introduced in the video. For those who have had their interest piqued by Kumamoto’s Higo Zogan, definitely check out the video! 【Official Website】Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/

Choosing the Right Fire Tongs for Camping in Japan Fire tongs are an indispensable piece of equipment for camping if you're planning on building a fire. More and more people are starting to enjoy both solo and family camping in Japan. In this article, we'll introduce a video goes over the different features and comfort of fire tongs. Video Introduction: 8 Different Fire Tongs for Camping and Outdoor Activities in Japan This video, titled "Campfire BBQ [Comparing 8 Different Fire Tongs]" (キャンプ焚火BBQ【火ばさみ８種類比較), was uploaded by "solo camp & camp cooking in Japan TANA channe." Fire Tongs: Features and Ease of Use Photo：Fire tongs If you're just getting started with camping or other outdoor activities, or you're finding your current fire tongs difficult to use or in need of replacement, this video is for you! The video introduces the characteristics of each pair of fire tongs, how comfortable they are to use, and how well they can actually handle charcoal and other materials. Hopefully it helps you find a new pair of fire tongs. 1. Snow Peak Source :YouTube screenshot Snow Peak's fire tongs are 40.5 cm long, approximately 4 cm wide, made of stainless steel, and weigh approximately 200g. They open in a V-shape and can be stored compactly simply by putting a rubber band on the tips to hold it shut. The grip is made of beech wood, making it easy to hold, and the jagged tip makes the fire tongs suitable for campfires and barbecues. They also look stylish. Reviews state that the tongs are reliable even when used with heavy firewood, and that they don't warp easily and are easy to use. Although some strength is required when picking things up, the large opening makes it easy to grab large coals and other items. [Video] 1:55 - Snow Peak's Fire Tongs [Video] 8:36 - Picking Up and Moving Charcoal 2. TEOGONIA Fireplace Tongs Source :YouTube screenshot TEOGONIA's fire tongs are 42 cm long and weigh 390g. The body is made of steel and the grip is made of high-quality rosewood. The tip of the tongs opens wide for a firm grip. However, it may be difficult for some people, such as those with smaller hands or women, to open them wide. It may be better to actually try them out in a store before purchasing them. [Video] 10:00 - TEOGONIA Fire Tongs 3. KONYO Daigoro Source :YouTube screenshot The Daigoro Charcoal Tongs are 28.5 cm long and are suitable for use on smaller charcoal beds. Many reviewers say that they are non-slip and rust-resistant, and most importantly, they are inexpensive. However, some people seem to feel that they are less sturdy than others, or that they become distorted and do not grip well. [Video] 16:10 - Daigoro Charcoal Tongs 4. ONOE (尾上製作所の火ばさみ) Source :YouTube screenshot The ONOE fire tongs are relatively reasonably priced fire tongs. The video shows how the flat shape allows you to grab charcoal and kettles without difficulty. This product can also be used for picking up trash. [Video] 18:46 - ONOE Fire Tongs 5. Captain Stag Wide BBQ Tongs (キャプテンスタッグ BBQ ワイド 炭バサミ) Source :YouTube screenshot The Captain Stag Wide BBQ Tongs also open wide in a V-shape, and require a rubber band or some other binding to store them easily. This is a larger type with an overall length of about 47 cm. They are made of stainless steel and feature a wider width at the tip. The wide tip allows for a firm grip on large pieces of firewood or charcoal. Made of stainless steel, it is resistant to rust and can be used not only for camping but also for picking up trash, such as empty cans and twigs. [Video] 20:52 - Captain Stag Wide BBQ Tongs 6. Captain Stag Dutch Oven Tongs Source :YouTube screenshot The Captain Stag Dutch Oven Tongs feature a Dutch oven lifter at the tip. The overall length is about 49 cm and the tongs themselves are rather large. The grip is made of natural wood. With a load capacity of 5 kg, this product can be used as both fire tongs and a lid lifter, making it useful for those who use Dutch ovens when camping. Compared to Snow Peak, they require less strength to clamp down on something. Some say they're easy to use because the handle is made of wood, while others say it is difficult to use because of the unique tip. This is a product that has a niche use and should be purchased for specific uses. [Video] 23:39 - Captain Stag Dutch Oven Tongs 7. Vieaura Fireplace Tongs Source :YouTube screenshot The Vieaura Fireplace Tongs are 38.5 cm long, and weigh only 15g. They are lightweight, and are suitable for use in a wide range of applications. The long handle is also a good choice for those who are concerned about getting burned. Because the tongs are light and slim, some say the tongs aren't strong enough, and some people with smaller hands may find the tongs difficult to open wide. On the other hand, there are also reviews that say the tongs are easy to use and grip charcoal firmly, so this is another pair of tongs we recommend trying at a store before purchasing. [Video] 27:27 - Vieaura Fireplace Tongs 8. Captain Stag Large Charcoal Tongs Source :YouTube screenshot The Captain Stag Large Charcoal Tongs have a total length of 45 cm and include a stopper for easy storage. The jagged tip makes them easy to grasp objects with, and the grip is vinyl-coated to prevent slipping. Reviews include comments that say the rubber grip is easy to use, while others say the tongs aren't durable and the clip for storing the fire tongs comes off easily. [Video] 30:58 - Captain Stag Large Charcoal Tongs Summary of Fire Tongs for Camping in Japan Fire tongs come in a wide variety of types and at varying prices. Your choice will come down to your camping/outdoor preferences, how you plan to use the tongs, and who will be using them. You can purchase fire tongs online, but if you're interested in a product after watching the video, consider trying it out in a store to get an idea of what the product is like before buying it. Don't forget to check the length as well, as you also want to be careful about safety when dealing with fire. By choosing the perfect camping equipment for you, you can enjoy a more comfortable outdoor experience.