Official Author

児玉 勇（Yu Kodama）

An Introduction to Iwafune, Tochigi This video, titled "Tochigi City Iwafune Area PR Video: Nature" (栃木市岩舟地域ＰＲ動画　自然編), was released by "Tochigi City, Tochigi Prefecture" (栃木県栃木市). Iwafune in Tochigi City has such rich history that even Murahi Shrine, a shrine in Iwafune, appears in the Manyoshu, a collection of ancient Japanese poetry, and it has been used as a filming location for movies and TV dramas for years. It is a town with both scenic beauty and cultural aspects. In 2007, Iwafune was used as the setting for the animation "5 Centimeters per Second," and it is becoming increasingly popular as a sacred place among overseas anime fans. In 2014, the town was merged into Tochigi City and the former Iwafune was abolished. The address used to be Iwafune, Shimotsuga County (下都賀郡, Shimotsuga-Gun), Tochigi, but is now Iwafune, Tochigi City. Sightseeing Locations in Iwafune, Tochigi Source :YouTube screenshot Let's take a look at some sightseeing destinations in Iwafune, Tochigi shown in the video. ・Mikamoyama Park [1:00～] The park is home to Mikamo Garden, Boken no Mori (冒険の森, Adventure Forest), and Wanpaku Park. Visitors can take the special "Flower Train" (フラワートレイン) through the park as well. ・Koushouji Temple [1:20～] The park is filled with cherry blossoms in the spring and red spider lilies in the fall. ・Iwafune Sports Park [1:32～] This is also a famous cherry blossom viewing spot that attracts many visitors. ・Daijiji Temple [1:47～] This is a historic temple with beautiful autumn leaves. The temple has become internationally famous for the research books of former Ambassador Reischauer (the United States Ambassador to Japan). ・Tochigi Flower Center [2:12～] Approximately 1,200 species of plants grow here, and you can enjoy seasonal flowers. ・Mt. Iwafune Cliff Stage [3:08～] This is a large, outdoor, live stage. Summary of Popular Sightseeing Locations in Iwafune, Tochigi Source :YouTube screenshot Iwafune in Tochigi City is a part of the "Kanto Fureai Trail" which connects the Tokyo metropolitan area. The area between Tochigi Station and Iwafune Station has been designated "Ryosen-wo-tadoru-Michi" (lit. The Path Along the Ridgeline). The population of Iwafune, Tochigi, is approximately 17,575 (as of 2014), and the main industries are agriculture and tourism. When the ears of rice turn golden in the fall, you can see breathtakingly beautiful rural scenery, and there are also many grape farms and other orchards where you can enjoy fruit-filled lunches and desserts. Outdoor activities are also popular in the area, and hiking, trails with panoramic views, and rocky trails can be found at Iwafune Nature Park and Mt. Iwafune in Tochigi City. For more information about Iwafune, Tochigi, please visit the official website of Tochigi City. 【Official Website】TOCHIGI CITY Official Website | Tochigi City, Tochigi Prefecture https://www.city.tochigi.lg.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Tochigi https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g424927-Tochigi_Tochigi_Prefecture_Kanto-Vacations.html

Video Introduction of "Fujiya Ryokan" in Yugawara, Ashigarakami-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture This video, titled " Fujiya Ryokan [Selected Lodgings to Visit on Weekends]" (富士屋旅館【週末に訪れたくなる厳選宿】), was uploaded by "Relux Lodging Diary" (Relux宿日記). Fujiya Ryokan, featured in the video, is a popular long-established hot spring inn located in Yugawara, Kanagawa, in Japan's Kanto region, near Hakone. The hot springs and scenic beauty of the area between Yugawara and Hakone have a long history that is mentioned in ancient texts, such as the Manyoshu. Fujiya Ryokan already had a predecessor building in the late Edo period (around 1750-1860 AD), and the oldest building today, the Old Building, was built in 1923. The oldest building, the "Old Building" (旧館, Kyuu-kan) was built in 1923, making it a building with nearly 100 years of history. The New Building, the Old Building, and Rakumiso, all of which have equally elegant guest rooms, are connected by a long corridor that leads to the large bathhouse, allowing visitors to enjoy a stroll through the Japanese garden before a relaxing bath. The Old Building, the (as its name implies) oldest building at the inn, provides guests with a stylish and tranquil space with a Taisho-modern taste of the time inherited through the use of fine 13.68-centimeter square pillars made of Japanese cypress and glass doors with kumiko panels. The New Building is a high-quality guest room that provides a conscious blend of Japanese and Western styles while maintaining the retro feel of the Showa period. The guest rooms can be viewed at 0:43 in the video. The History of Fujiya Ryokan in Yugawara, Kanagawa Source :YouTube screenshot According to "Guide to Yugawara" (湯河原案内, yugawara an'nai) published in 1918, Fujiya Ryokan started its business as a hot spring inn in 1920, and was called "Juhoen" at the time. After crossing the long bridge over the Fujiki River, you'll see a vast site lined with towers and annexes, and it is introduced as a famous ryokan where you can enjoy nature and flowers in every season. The large bath is a hot spring cypress bath with a weak saline solution (weak alkalinity), and is considered a beauty spring because its pH is close to that of human skin. You can see the large bath at 2:39 of the video. Of course, visitors can also enjoy the hot spring water in the indoor baths of their guest room. Fujiya Ryokan has been loved by many Japanese literary figures, including Doppo Kunikida, Natsume Soseki, Yosano Akiko, and Junichiro Tanizaki. Gourmet Dining at Fujiya Ryokan in Yugawara, Kanagawa Source :YouTube screenshot When you think of hot spring inns, besides the hot springs and luxurious rooms, if there's anything you don't want to miss out on, it's the delicious cuisine they serve. Fujiya Ryokan's restaurant, Hyorokutei, offers dishes that will make even the most seasoned gourmet's taste buds sing. The name "Hyorokutei" comes from the traditional good omen for good health - Gourds (Hyotan in Japanese). It combines the words "gourd" (Hyo)tan, six (roku), and "restaurant" (tei). (※Gourds have long been a good luck charm for good health in Japan) Savor the mouthwatering fish dishes made with a wide variety of Higashi-Izu seafood from Sagami Bay, as well as premium ingredients, such as Japanese black beef, locally harvested game dishes, and domestic eel. We also recommend the "dancing icefish," which you can see in the video at 2:18, served with ginger vinegar, a specialty of Yugawara. If you're too busy for an overnight stay, Fujiya Ryokan's one-day hot spring and gourmet plan is a great option. At Hyorokutei, even on a day trip, you can enjoy sumptuous kaiseki cuisine, shabu-shabu made with local sea bream, charcoal-grilled meat, and other delectable dishes. Summary of Fujiya Ryokan in Yugawara, Kanagawa Source :YouTube screenshot What did you think? Fujiya Ryokan, introduced in the video, has been chosen by foreign tourists as one of the best inns in Japan. Once you stay there, it's almost inevitable that you'll become a repeat guest! Enjoy hospitality and luxury that you can only find in Japan. For more information on accommodations and access, please visit the official website of Fujiya Ryokan. 【Official Website】Fujiya Ryokan Yugawara https://fujiyaryokan.jp/ 【TripAdvisor】Fujiya Ryokan https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g1121143-d16695943-Reviews-Fujiya_Ryokan-Yugawara_machi_Ashigarashimo_gun_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto.html

日本の人気観光地長野県長和町とは こちらで紹介する動画は「長和町公式チャンネル」が公開した「長和町観光PRビデオ」です。 長野県長和町は美ヶ原・霧ケ峰高原と接し、高原からの絶景だけでなく山岳部から平野部へと流れる二つの川が織りなす景観が必見の観光名所です。 四季折々の大自然が織りなすさまざまな景色を堪能することができるのですが、特に本沢渓谷や不動滝は紅葉の名所として毎年数多くの観光客が訪れます。 江戸時代には中山道の宿場町として栄えた長和町は古き良き日本の景勝が残る美しい里です。 信州の大自然の息吹を感じる美しい動画をお楽しみください。 長野県長和町の観光エリアとイベント情報 ・長久保宿歴史資料館一福処濱屋 ・和田宿歴史の道資料館「かわちや」（国指定史跡） ・和田宿資料館「大黒屋」（国指定史跡） ・和田宿本陣（国指定史跡） ・黒曜の水 など長野県長和町にはおすすめのインスタ映えスポットがいっぱい！ 大自然が織りなす絶景と心癒す景観は動画でもお楽しみいただけます。 こんな自然豊かな長和町には体験型イベントも目白押し！ ・中央分水嶺トレイル ・そば打ち体験 ・立岩和紙の里での紙すき体験 ・大山獅子祭り など季節ごとにいろいろなイベントがあなたを待っています。 日本一長寿と言われる長野県のご当地グルメ情報 長野県は日本一長寿の県としても知られています。 そんな長野県長和町のご当地グルメといえばそばにおやき、そして牧場で取れた新鮮な乳製品を使った料理やスイーツ、川魚や山菜などの山の幸です。 史跡やハイキングコースを巡ったら美味しい長和町ご当地グルメを堪能してください。 国道には道の駅もあり施設内のレストランは連日多くの観光客で賑わっています。 日本のかくれた景観地長野県長和町周辺のホテル・宿泊情報 風光明媚な観光地、また夏でも涼しい気候なので避暑地としても人気の高い長和町周辺にはペンションや民宿がたくさんあります。 長野県は日本でも有数の温泉地でもあるので、旅行の疲れを温泉でゆっくりと癒してくださいね。 長和町のホテルや宿泊施設情報は長和町観光協会の公式ホームページで確認できます。 日本の四季折々の豊かな景色が楽しめる長野県長和町へのアクセス 感動と体験の町、長和町へのアクセスは次の通りです。 -電車利用の場合- ・北陸新幹線上田駅下車→路線バス約50分「長和町（長久保宿）」 ・中央本線茅野駅→路線バス約45分「長和町（長久保宿）」 -車を利用する場合- ・上越自動車道（中部横断自動車道）佐久南ICより約40分 日本の人気観光地！体験と感動の長野県長和町についてのまとめ 長野県長和町の星糞峠周辺は邪馬台国や黒曜石の採掘場、鷹山遺跡など悠久の時を感じる原始のロマンや土器を展示している史跡公園があり、江戸時代には旧中山道の宿場町として栄えた歴史のあるエリアです。 さらに日本アルプスの自然豊かな景観は日本の原風景としていつまでも心に焼きつくことでしょう。 そんな魅力溢れる長和町の四季折々の風景と歴史文化の足跡を辿る旅を紹介する動画をお楽しみください。

日本の穴場観光地！北海道浜頓別町ってどんなところ？ こちらで紹介する動画は「Hamatombetsu Hokkaido」が公開した「北海道浜頓別町観光PV【日本語】」です。 日本には風光明媚な観光地が数々ありますが、今回は北海道の人気観光地、野鳥の里「浜頓別町」をご紹介したいと思います。 浜頓別町は北海道最北端にある宗谷岬に近く、北海道浜頓別町内にあるクッチャロ湖には白鳥やコハクチョウなどの渡り鳥がたくさん集まることで知られ、ラムサール条約保護区の指定を受けています。 豊かな自然が残る絶景の景勝地、野鳥、砂金、そして温泉の様子を動画でお楽しみください。 北海道浜頓別町のおすすめ観光スポット「クッチャロ湖と野鳥」 北海道浜頓別町最大の魅力は豊かな自然景観を見せるクッチャロ湖の湖畔観光です。 大沼と小沼の二つの沼が細い水路で繋がれていて、ひょうたんのような形をしたユニークな形をしています。 湖の南側には北海道浜頓別町クッチャロ湖水鳥観察館、キャンプ場、温泉施設、白鳥公園などがあり、夏はマリンスポーツが楽しめます。 北海道浜頓別町のおすすめ観光スポット「ウソタンナイ川と砂金」 北海道浜頓別町は日本のゴールドラッシュの地としても有名です。 明治時代までウソタンナイ川では良質な砂金が採れていました。 そしてかつて砂金採掘が盛んに行われていた時期に建てられた神社が金山神社（現在は金山神社跡）です。 昭和63年にウソタンナイ砂金発見90周年を記念して造られたゴールドハウスでは取れた砂金を加工してくれます。 北海道浜頓別町のおすすめ観光スポット「温泉&ホテル宿泊情報」 美人の湯として有名な浜頓別温泉は良質の天然温泉です。 おすすめは宿泊可能なとんべつ温泉ウイングです。 北海道浜頓別町のおすすめ観光スポット「ベニヤ原生花園」 日本最大級！330ヘクタールの広大な園内には遊歩道が整備されているので、ゆったりとした時の中で自然を満喫しながらの散策を体験できます。 おすすめ観光スポット「オオワシの森」 頓別湖畔には国の天然記念物に指定されている大ワシの姿を観察できるおすすめのスポット「オオワシの森」があります。 北海道浜頓別町のその他の観光エリア 北海道浜頓別町には他にも ・クローバーの丘 ・斜内山道 ・北見神威岬 などのインスタ映えする名所があります。 日本最北の地、北海道浜頓別町周辺のグルメ情報 北海道は日本でも有数の酪農地です。 北海道浜頓別町でも酪農が盛んで、周辺のレストランやカフェでは地元産の牛乳やバター、チーズといった乳製品を使った料理やスイーツが堪能できます。 そしてオホーツク海にも面しているので新鮮な海産物も楽しめます。 ホタテや鮭をふんだんに使った海鮮料理は絶品です。 日本最北の地、北海道浜頓別町周辺のイベント情報 手つかずの自然が残る北海道浜頓別町ではさまざまなイベントも企画されています。 ・クッチャロ湖湖水まつり：湖上に咲く花火大会が人気です。 ・マラソン大会 ・ウソタン砂金フェスティバル ・ふるさとまつりin浜頓別：オホーツク海の新鮮な魚介類が大集合します。 ・クッチャロ湖氷上ウォーキング など。 日本最北の地、北海道浜頓別町紹介まとめ ゴールドラッシュの歴史と豊かな自然が残る北海道浜頓別。 観光と酪農が主な産業のこの町には四季折々の自然の景観を楽しむための散策ルートが設定されています。 中でもおすすめなのは町のシンボルであるスワットンの名前がついたスワットンロードです。 クッチャロ湖やベニヤ原生花園など浜頓別町の観光名所が散策できます。 北海道浜頓別町の美しい景色を動画でお楽しみください。

四季を通じて自然豊かな温泉の郷「湯原温泉」について こちらの動画は「真庭市公式チャンネル」が公開した「湯原温泉」です。 湯原温泉は岡山県にある自然豊かな温泉郷です。 昔から自噴する温泉が数多く存在し、湯治客や観光客で賑わってきました。 また古墳時代より「たたら製鉄」が盛んだったエリアで、金山（製鉄後のくず鉄を積んでできた山）や史跡がそこかしこに残っています。 人気アニメ「もののけ姫」にもたたら場が登場し、そのモデルが湯原温泉郷だったと言われており、聖地巡礼の場としても旅行客の人気を集めています。 岡山県湯原温泉郷のイベント情報 湯原温泉では夏の季節はイベント満載ですが何と言っても「はんざき祭り」が一番の目玉です。 このお祭りは日本の特別天然記念物に指定されているオオサンショウウオ（岡山の方言ではんざき）にちなんだお祭りで、「はんざき山車（はんざきねぶた）」が湯原温泉郷を練り歩きます。 華やかな道中ばやしが鳴り響き盆踊りも開催！ また美甘夏まつりで行われる花火大会は中国山地の山々に音が反響するので海辺の花火大会よりも迫力満点でとても人気のあるイベントです。 さらに秋には紅葉、冬は雪見風呂や冬至のゆず湯、雪景色の中のキャンドルファンタジー、正月明けのしし祭り、6月の砂湯が人気の露天風呂の日など、湯原温泉では一年を通じてさまざまなイベントを楽しむことができます。 岡山県湯原温泉郷のグルメ情報 清流と山間の自然あふれる湯原温泉では毎年1月になると伝統的な「しし祭り」が開かれ多くの人がご当地グルメのイノシシ料理を楽しみます。 そして清流釣りの本場としても人気のスポットなので、ヤマメやイワナ、マスなどの川魚料理が多くの観光客に愛されています。 ホテルや旅館では本格的な山の幸をふんだんに使った郷土料理をお楽しみいただけますよ。 岡山県湯原温泉郷周辺の観光スポット情報 はんざきセンターはオオサンショウウオに関する資料や湯山温泉郷との文化・歴史的なつながりを示す資料を展示している隠れた観光名所です。 また「はんざき祭り」のルートには「はんざき大明神」の祠があり、ここもおすすめの穴場景観地。 ご祭祀のオオサンショウウオがとても可愛いと評判なのです。 湯原温泉郷旅行では絶対に外せないインスタ映えポイントとしておすすめ。 さらに、絶景好きな方やダムマニアにとって欠かせない景勝地が「湯原ダム」です。 湯原ダムは昭和23年に岡山県が立案し昭和30年に完成した歴史あるダムです。 今でも湯原温泉郷の大切な水源として、また電力供給源として活躍しています。 スポーツ好きな方は湯原温泉トライアスロン大会がおすすめ！ そしてとっておきの観光スポットをもう一つ！温泉街の中央に位置する温泉薬師堂をご紹介。 温泉薬師堂は無くしたものが返ってくるお薬師様として信仰を集め、すぐ近くから温泉がこんこんと湧き出ているので手湯足湯が無料で楽しめるんです。 湯原温泉郷紹介まとめ 湯原温泉郷へのアクセスは米子自動車道湯原ICより約3キロ、JR岡山駅またはJR中国勝山駅から路線バスを乗り継いで湯原温泉バス停のご利用が便利です。 湯原温泉郷に旅行するなら日帰り温泉が楽しめる湯元温泉館にも足をお運びくださいね。

Kurume Gasuri - A Traditional Craft of Fukuoka Prefecture? This video, titled "Handicraft TEWAZA "Kurume Gasuri" kurume pongee" (手技TEWAZA「久留米絣」kurume pongee／伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square), was released by "JAPAN TRADITIONAL CRAFTS AOYAMA SQUARE" (伝統工芸 青山スクエア), a channel that features introductions to many of Japan's traditional crafts. This video shows how simple yet geometric and beautiful Kasuri patterned kimono are created by two Kurume Gasuri craftsmen in a tranquil environment. Kurume Gasuri - A Traditional Japanese Craft With Beautiful Patterns Photo：Working at Kurume Gasuri in Fukuoka Prefecture Few people are familiar with the Kurume Gasuri fabric manufactured in the Chikugo region (筑後地方) of southern Fukuoka Prefecture in Japan's Kyushu region (九州地方). Kurume Gasuri is a weaving technique said to have been invented by a 12-year-old girl at the beginning of the 19th century. She was apparently inspired by the threads of old cotton scraps that had become faded. Nowadays, it's known as one of the three major Kasuri in Japan, alongside Iyo Kasuri, made in Matsuyama (松山市) in Ehime Prefecture (愛媛県) in Japan's Shikoku region (四国地方), and Bingo Kasuri, made in Fukuyama (福山市) in Hiroshima Prefecture (広島県). The craft has been designated an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan. Since Kurume Gasuri is made of cotton Kasuri, it is gentle to the touch and can be washed. This makes it suitable not only for kimonos, but also for clothing, such as dresses and accessories, and even face masks. Unlike silk kimonos, Kasuri fabrics were used for everyday clothing, such as monpe (a kind of Hakama casual wear) until after the war. The Process of Making Kurume Gasuri, a Traditional Craft of Southern Fukuoka Photo：Kurume Gasuri Yarn, Fukuoka, Japan Let's take a look at how hand-loomed Kurume Gasuri are made by two designers/craftsmen from the Kurume Gasuri brand "GIEMON." Each step can be seen in the video. ・Eito Kaki - (video 0:40~) Eito is the thread that will become the "pattern" when woven. The thread that will become the Eito is fixed, and the designer carefully inks it by hand according to the design. ・Kukuri - (Video 1:15-) This is an important process that involves tying a string to the Eito so that a pattern remains after dyeing it. ・Some - (Video 1:43~) Generally, indigo dye is used. The indigo dyeing process makes the cotton fabric more resistant to insects and odors. It also increases the strength of the fabric. ・Kasuri Toki - (Video 2:39-) This steps involves untying the bundle to check if the pattern stands out properly. It's an exciting moment. ・Ori - (Video 3:10~) This is the process of weaving the finished yarn into a Tanmono. A Tanmono is a roll of kimono fabric, and a Kijaku (standard length of material used in a kimono) has a weaving width of about 38cm. The History of Kurume Gasuri, a Traditional Craft of Southern Fukuoka The 12-year-old girl who invented the Kurume Gasuri is named Den Inoue. She was born in Kurume-Torihoka, Chikugo-no-Kuni (present-day Kurume (久留米市), Fukuoka). It's theorized that the technique of "Kasuri," the basic pattern of cotton fabric, was introduced to Kyushu and Shikoku via the Ryukyu Islands. This video features the indigo-dyed hand weaving of Kurume Gasuri, but there are other styles, such as Aizome Kasuri, Tateyoko-Kasuri, Yoko-Kasuri, Dasshoku-Kasuri, Tsumami Zome, and Tate-Kasuri. Summary of Kurume Gasuri, a Traditional Craft of Southern Fukuoka Photo：Kurume Gasuri, Fukuoka Prefecture It's said that the charm of the Aizome Kurume Gasuri is its beautiful patterns and the texture that becomes more profound the more you wear it. It can be washed at home, and the more you wash it, the softer it becomes and it also conforms to your skin. This is a classic piece of traditional craftwork, yet one that you will want to use everyday. GIEMON (儀右衛門), featured in this article, sells Kurume Gasuri products online. If you're interested, be sure to check out their official website.

Introducing Southern Yamaguchi With a Lighthearted Rap! This is a unique promotion video by "Yamaguchi Channel" titled "[Nambu Area RAP] A PR Video for the Southern Area of Yamaguchi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture" (山口県山口市南部地域のＰＲ動画「ナンブエリアＲＡＰ」). It introduces attractive local products, crafts, events and scenery through rap music. A Brief Look at the History of Yamaguchi Photo： Rurikoji Temple, Yamaguchi Yamaguchi City is the capital of Yamaguchi Prefecture. It's a warm area, with little rain and snow each year. It has the second largest population in the prefecture after Shimonoseki. In 2005, Ajisu and other areas were merged to form the current Yamaguchi. It is said to be one of the smallest prefectural capitals in Japan, but it has a long history that includes historical sites associated with the Choshu Domain which helped lead the Meiji Restoration, as well as a coin factory that has been in operation since the Heian period, and Seto-mono-no-Sato　(瀬戸物の里). Also, a number of prime ministers have been born in Yamaguchi. In the southern part of the city, there are Kagawa and Sayama where there are many scenic spots. Setouchi gourmet is also popular, attracting many tourists every year. Popular Sightseeing Locations in Yamaguchi Photo：The SL Yamaguchi, Yamaguchi The following are popular sightseeing sights shown in the video. - Natajima (0:38) This is a beautiful countryside scene featuring the young MC. It is a straight line stretching about 2km and is a part of the course for the international cycling event "Tour de Yamaguchi Bay." - Suegatake This mountain stretches across Aiofutajima, Sue, and Suzenji, and is called the "Mini-Fuji of Yamaguchi" because it looks like Mt. Fuji. It is also famous as a place to practice and experience climbing, and is a great place for beginners to climb as it's located 230 meters above sea level. This can be seen from 0:26 in the video. - Sand Art Large-scale sand art that can be seen around September and October, when the water in Nagasawa Pond recedes. You can see it from 0:34 in the video. - Natajima Shingaisaku Nambanhi This is the site where large-scale land reclamation work was conducted during the Edo period (1603-1868 AD). It was called "Nanbanhi" and used the latest technology at the time. It has since been designated as a National Historic Site as an Important Historical Resource. - The Former Katsuragatani Storage Dam The oldest dam in Yamaguchi that was completed in 1923. - Minogahama A warm and calm beach along the Seto Inland Sea. It has been crowded with SUP and swimming since it was opened in 2019. You can barbecue and camp in the specific area. - Japanese Tiger Prawns Aio, Yamaguchi is the birthplace of tiger prawn farming. Every year when the shrimp are in season, the "World Shrimp Hunting Competition" is held. - Setouchi Hot Spring Southern Yamaguchi is famous for its hot springs. "Aio-sou," a hotel with a view of the sea, is shown from 0:49 in the video. - Iwayasan Jizo-in You can visit pilgrimage sites in the southern area of Yamaguchi. It is the 83rd temple of the 88 sacred places of Aio. - Mejima A unique island referred to as the Mont-Saint-Michel of Yamaguchi. At low tide, the island is connected to other islands and can be crossed on foot. - Aio Fruit Tomatoes (秋穂フルーツトマト) There's a lot of delicious food to try in southern Yamaguchi. Aio Fruit Tomatoes are so sweet and delicious that they're called the king of tomatoes. There are local sake and pumpkins too. - SL Yamaguchi The SL Yamaguchi is a very exciting train. In the southern part of Yamaguchi, you can still see the steam locomotive in action. Photo：Suo Bridge, Yamaguchi Prefecture - Suo Bridge It connects the cities Ube and Hofu and has been selected as one of the Top 100 Bridges in Japan. At the foot of the mountain is the Fujio Mountain Slide, where you can experience the thrill of the slide while enjoying a spectacular view. - Yamaguchi Kirara Expo Memorial Park The remains of the site of the 2001 Yamaguchi Kirara Expo, the 21st Century Future Exposition, have been developed into a park and is loved by many locals of Yamaguchi. - The Izeki River The southern part of Yamaguchi Prefecture used to experience a lot of damage from storm surges, but with the completion of the Izeki River Tide Gate in 1991, storm surge damage has been reduced. - The Statue of Omura Masujiro He was one of the ten leading people of the Choshu clan who were active at the end of the Edo period. He contributed greatly to the Meiji Restoration and is said to have been well educated in Dutch studies, Western medicine, and military science. - Sue-no-Sue Kamaato Said to be a kiln using in the Heian period (794-1185 A.D.) to fire Seto Ware pottery. High- quality pottery has been produced in the Setouchi region since ancient times. - Fireworks Festival In Ogori, Yamaguchi, fireworks festivals have been held since the Meiji period (1868-1912 AD). Nowadays, a large-scale fireworks festival is held at Fushinogawahigashitsu Kasen Park in southern Yamaguchi. Summary of Southern Yamaguchi Photo：Osaba Hachiman, Yamaguchi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture Access to Yamaguchi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is convenient from Yamaguchi Station on the JR West Line and Shin-Yamaguchi Station on the Sanyo Shinkansen. Many places and events are introduced in the video. There are some seasonal events as well, so please check the brochure or the official website of Yamaguchi City for details. 【Official Website】Yamaguchi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture City Hall Website https://www.city.yamaguchi.lg.jp/site/userguide/11129.html 【Tripadvisor】Yamaguchi City https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g298142-Yamaguchi_Yamaguchi_Prefecture_Chugoku-Vacations.html

What Is Mobile Police Patlabor? The video we'll introduce this time is titled "A Life-Size, 8m-Tall Ingram Stands in Toyosu! Live-Action ‘Patlabor’ Event." It introduces the promotional event held as a part of a project for the live-action version of Mobile Police Patlabor launched in 2014. Mobile Police Patlabor is a near-future science fiction work that gained popularity from the 1980s to the early 2000s as a media mix (manga series, anime series, short novel, game, etc.). Ingram, the giant robot introduced in the video, is a robot that belongs to the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Special Vehicle Section 2, Division 2 (aka: Special Vehicle Section 2, Labor Division). The story is set in a world where Japan has succeeded in developing an industrial robot (labor), but there is a high incidence of large-scale crime using labors. In response, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department introduced a large man-made general purpose machine, code-named Ingram, to combat labor crime. Mobile Police Patlabor has been adapted into a TV anime series and three feature films, but ‘The Next Generation: Patlabor’ launched in 2014 is the first live-action version. The car that transports Ingram is called the ‘labor carrier’, and the signal ‘deck up’ is used to launch Ingram from the bed of the carrier in the movie as well, so it must have been exciting for the fans to witness the impactful scene of the life-size Ingram decking up in Toyosu, where Special Vehicle Section 2 is located. Specifications of the Life-Size Ingram Source :YouTube screenshot Let’s compare the specifications of the Ingram from the truly popular comic and anime series and the life-size Ingram in this article. The Ingram in the serialized manga and anime series moves acrobatically to the extent where it is physically impossible as it operates in a 2-dimensional world, but that is not possible using the available technologies in the real world, and "the biggest challenge of the life-size AV-98 Ingram was to make it stand on its own." The first-generation Gundam which used to be exhibited in Odaiba, and the Unicorn Gundam, with a transformation mode, are famous as the first life-size robots, and are popular tourist spots in Tokyo. However, the life-size Ingram is a large-scale standing model following these two. You can see the life-size, 8m-tall Ingram deck up in the video at 1:34. As you can see from the video, the Ingram is highly detailed, but it is slightly different from the original draft as many parts have been added to its legs and feet in order to have it stand on its own, giving it a more muscular look on its lower body. The public exhibit of the life-size Ingram as part of the highly-anticipated new project for Mobile Police Patlabor "The Next Generation: Patlabor," was held in major cities all across the country, such as Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukushima, after launching in Toyosu, Tokyo. Moreover, at Huis Ten Bosch in Nagasaki and at the 27th Tokyo International Film Festival, the Ingram which was actually used for shooting was exhibited. Summary of the Life-Size Ingram From Mobile Police Patlabor Source :YouTube screenshot The live-action version of Mobile Police Patlabor features an all-star cast, including director Mamoru Oshii, Erina Mano as Ingram's pilot, Akira Izumino, and Toshio Kakei as the captain of Division 2, Keiji Gotoda, and culminates in seven short films plus a feature-length theatrical production, "The Next Generation Patlabor - Tokyo War." You can watch the interviews in the video as well; Erina Mano from 7:08, Toshio Kakei from 8:18, and the director, Mamoru Oshii, from 8:51. It is said that the story of the live-action version "The Next Generation Patlabor - Tokyo War" is based on the second film, but the characters and settings have been revamped. The new series was welcomed by long-time fans, saying it was "Nostalgic!," and "Cool!," and it was highly praised overseas as well. In Japan, there are novelizations and games, as well as plastic models and figurines of Ingram on sale, so be sure to check them out!

Introducing this video of Okunoshima This video, titled "Okunoshima, AKA 'Rabbit Island,' in the Seto Inland Sea" (瀬戸内海の「うさぎ島」大久野島), was created by "AQUA Geo Graphic." The video shows scenes of Okunoshima, an island in Takehara City, Hiroshima, in Japan's Chugoku region. Adorable rabbits fill the screen, hopping around freely and you can enjoy their cuteness to your heart's content. More than 900 rabbits currently inhabit Okunoshima, and in recent years, the island has been attracting attention as a tourist area, with many visitors from both Japan and abroad. Why is Okunoshima known as "Rabbit Island"? Photo：Rabbits on Ohkuno Island, Takehara, Hiroshima You're probably wondering, "Are there really that many rabbits on the island"? Originally there were only 8 rabbits on the island. They were raised at a local elementary school in 1971. Over time, the island was deserted, and the rabbits were released to live in the wild. The rabbits belong to the European rabbit species, and are so fertile that they have actually been designated one of the 100 worst invasive alien species in the world. After being released into the wild, they multiplied rapidly, leading to a massive rabbit population in just a short amount of time. The trading of European rabbits is currently strictly regulated and Okunoshima is one of the few places in Japan where these wild rabbits can be seen. In fact, Okunoshima became a hot topic overseas before it gained attention in Japan. A foreign tourist who visited the island for sightseeing posted a video playing with the rabbits, and the video gained a lot of attention online. In addition, it just so happens that in 2011, it was the zodiac year of the rabbit and Japanese media introduced the island as "Rabbit Island" and that became the reason for the island's rise in popularity. A Look at Okunoshima Photo：Okunoshima, Takehara, Hiroshima Okunoshima is a small island with a circumference of about 4 km. You can make a full trip around the entire island on foot or on bicycle, and driving is prohibited. Additionally, be sure to follow the island's rules when interacting with the rabbits. Rabbits are anxious animals and are very sensitive to sound. Although the rabbits living on the island are wild, they are very friendly towards humans due to having become used to being fed by hand. This can be seen from 0:44 in the video. Unfortunately, the sounds of engines, braking, and honking are frightening and confusing to the rabbits. Furthermore, if you attempt to forcibly pick up or touch the rabbits, they may bite in self-defense, causing injury. Their bites are quite strong, so be careful! There are devices installed along the coastline which visitors can use to find out what the world sounds like to rabbits. This will show you why it's important to be careful around the rabbits. Okunoshima was temporarily uninhabited during World War II, but now almost the entire island has been designated a tourist destination. The land is owned by the Ministry of the Environment, with the Kyukamura Association being in charge of the daily operations of "Kyukamura Okunoshima Hotel". In other words, most of the current inhabitants of the island are the employees of the hotel and their families. The History of Okunoshima Photo：Ruins on Okunoshima, Takehara, Hiroshima Okunoshima Island is now a place visited by many tourists who come to play with the adorable rabbits. However, during the early Showa Period, it was actually home to Japan's only poison gas factory, built by the Imperial Japanese Army. Additionally, it was originally meant to host a factory for building warships. This dark history led to the island being erased from maps for many years. There were a few private houses on the island, but the original islanders were forced out of their homes in order to build the poison gas factory. The history of that time is recorded in the Poison Gas Museum (毒ガス資料館). Summary of Okunoshima Island Photo：Okunoshima Wharf, Takehara, Hiroshima The island can be accessed via the ferry that departs from the Mihara area (三原地域). There is no plane access to the island. A trip by ferry takes only about 15 minutes, which means you can enjoy taking a day trip to see the rabbits on the island. The main facilities of the Kyukamura Hotel are as follows: ・ Tennis field ・ Fishing area ・ Beach ・ Outdoor pool ・ Camping site and more! You can also enjoy lunch at the restaurant. Detailed information can be found on the official website of the Okunoshima Visitor Center. 【Official Website】Okunoshima｜Tourist Area｜Takehara City Official Tourism Site Hiroshima Takehara Tourism Navigation https://www.takeharakankou.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Okunoshima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1022436-d3243254-Reviews-Okunoshima_Island-Takehara_Hiroshima_Prefecture_Chugoku.html

Basho no Sato - A Popular Sightseeing Destination in Otawara, Tochigi This video, titled "JG☆☆8K HDR 栃木 芭蕉の里 黒羽 大雄寺(重文) Tochigi,Kurobane Daioji(Cultural Property)," was created by "JAPAN GEOGRAPHIC." Matsuo Basho, a poet active during the Edo period (1603 AD - 1868 AD), is one of the most famous haiku poets in Japanese history. Many of the locations and buildings mentioned in his poetry collection "Oku no Hosomichi" (奥の細道) (often translated as "The Narrow Road to the Deep North") have become famous tourist spots in Japan. Basho no Sato Kurobane (芭蕉の里黒羽), introduced in the video, is one such tourist spot, located in Otawara, Tochigi. There are several famous spots in Basho no Sato, such as Daioji Temple, which belongs to the Soto school of Buddhism (曹洞宗), as well as Kurobane Fukushi Park (黒羽福祉公園), and Kurobane Basho no Yakata (芭蕉の館). Daioji Temple was built in 1404, giving it a long history dating back more than 600 years. Retracing the footsteps of Matsuo Basho in Daioji Temple Source :YouTube screenshot What kind of building is Tochigi prefecture's Daioji Temple? Let's take a look at Daioji Temple alongside the video. ・Sanmon (山門) 0:07～ Many Jizo statues (御地蔵) line the path towards the main temple gate. With these you can experience the atmosphere of the ancient temple. ・Somon (総門) and Kairo (回廊) 0:26～ A small main gate guarded by statues of arhats (羅漢) which marks the entrance to the thatch roofed hallway. ・Kyozo (経蔵) 0:45～ A storehouse where Buddhist scriptures are kept. Behind the storehouse is the treasure house known as "Shukokan" (集古館). Source :YouTube screenshot ・Shoro (鐘楼) 1:40～ After passing through Somon gate, a Japanese garden ornament, which also happens to be a musical device known as a "Suikinkutsu" (水琴窟) can be seen on the left hand side. On the right hand side you can see the bell tower "Shoro." ・Zendo (禅堂) 2:22～ If you turn left into the corridor (Kairo), about half way through you'll find the Zen meditation hall, or "Zendo." Matsuo Basho's poetry collection "Oku no Hosomichi" is an important piece of classical Japanese literature that is famous both in Japan as well as overseas. His journey, which covers all areas of Japan, was no easy feat. He would often walk several kilometers a day, writing haiku poems at many of his destinations. However, he is said to have spent two full weeks in Kurobane, Tochigi (featured in the video) with his disciple. Areas such as Nikko (日光) and Nasu (那須) in Tochigi prefecture are famous for their beautiful autumn foliage. The areas surrounding Kurobane Castle (黒羽城) and Daioji Temple also turn beautiful shades of red in autumn and are covered with peonies and irises. The picturesque scenery is sure to have tugged at the heart strings of Matsuo Basho. Daioji Temple has been preserved in its original form since 1448. At the time, the temple was known as "Kurobanesan Kuonin Daioji" (黒羽山久遠院大雄寺). Summary of Basho no Sato Source :YouTube screenshot Tochigi prefecture was an area Matsuo Basho was particularly fond of. In particular, the area surrounding Kurobane Castle and Daioji Temple which has been called "Basho no Sato". The area attracts lots of tourists each year and is one of the top sightseeing spots in Tochigi prefecture. Tochigi prefecture is most famous for its picturesque scenery in fall. However, the hydrangea flowers planted around Daioji temple, when in bloom, are also a spectacular sight to see, and a festival is held each year to welcome them. Peonies and irises are also planted alongside the path to the temple, creating a beautiful landscape that can be enjoyed all year round. 【Tripadvisor】Daioji Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021424-d7020346-Reviews-Daiouji_Temple-Otawara_Tochigi_Prefecture_Kanto.html