Official Author

児玉 勇（Yu Kodama）

Video Introduction of "Umi no Hotell Isabara," a popular inn in Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Nishi-Izu This video, titled "Umi no hotel ISABA” YADO PV／JAPAN ： 宿PV 海のほてるいさば02," was uploaded by "private-onsen JAPAN." Umi-no Hotel Isaba is located in Heda Onsen, a famous hot spring resort in Nishiizu, Shizuoka Prefecture. Surrounded by Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay, this is a hot spring hotel in a fishing town that's crowded with beachgoers in the summer. All guest rooms at Umi-no Hotel Isaba are luxurious oceanfront accommodations. Suruga Bay is a treasure trove of seafood with approximately 1,200 species of fish, including deep-sea species! At Umi-no Hotel Isaba, you can enjoy the freshest seafood from Suruga Bay in a luxurious setting. You can see some of the gorgeous dishes served at Umi-no Hotel Isaba at 0:57 in the video. The hot spring is an alkaline sulfur hot spring that is very popular among women as it's effective at promoting beautiful skin. The hotel's hot spring facilities include a large public bath, an open-air rooftop bath called "Tenku Onsen," and each room has its own personal hot spring, so you can relax to your heart's content. The rooftop hot spring overlooking Suruga Bay is also available for private use once per stay. The hot springs at Umi-no Hotel Isaba can be seen at 0:37 in the video. The rooms are very luxurious and we highly recommend the special room floor "Akane-no-Uta," which was renovated and reopened in July 2020! There is also a beauty spa, souvenir shop, terrace lounge, and lobby, all of which are very beautiful! Why not relax and spend a luxurious holiday at Umi-no Hotel Isaba? Sightseeing Around Umi-no Hotel Isaba Photo：Mihama Cape, Shizuoka Prefecture Nishiizu in Shizuoka Prefecture, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan, has many spectacular sightseeing spots. Let's take a look at some of them! ・Mihama Cape Mihama Cape is a cape shaped like a bird's beak, and was formed through the accumulation of sediment carried in by the currents of Suruga Bay. It's also a good fishing ground where you can enjoy fresh seafood at lunch time. ・Deai Misaki Cape This is a great sightseeing spot with a panoramic view of Heda Port, Mihama Cape, and Mt. Fuji. The name "Deai" (出会い) means "encounter" and the monument, from the hole of which you can see Mt. Fuji, signifies a meeting between two lovers. ・Tabibito Misaki Cape Tabibito Misaki Cape is located about 1km north of Matsubara Park on Prefectural Road 17. The beauty of the sunset that can be seen from here is absolutely breathtaking. The name "Tabibito" (旅人) means "traveler(s)." ・Koibito Misaki Cape Koibito Misaki Cape is a cape along Route 136, approximately 8 km south of Toi Onsen. "Koibito" (恋人) means "lovers," and, as its name suggests, it's a popular location among couples as a power spot for romance. It is said that couples who take a photo with the "I Love You" hand-sign statue on the cape or get a certificate of declaration of love from the Koibito Cape Office are said to have a better chance of achieving a successful relationship. (Whether or not you believe that is entirely up to you...) Summary of Umi-no Hotel Isaba, a Popular Hotel in Nishiizu, Shizuoka Prefecture Photo：Umi-no Hotel Isaba, Shizuoka Prefecture To get to Umi-no Hotel Isaba, a hotel popular for its many attractions and luxurious facilities, it's about a 50-minute bus ride from Shuzenji Station to Heda (a shuttle bus is also available). All-you-can-eat mandarin oranges are available from November to December every year, and the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival is held from mid-February to early March every year, attracting many tourists. Be sure to check with your travel agency or the official website of Umi-no Hotel Isaba for information regarding accommodation rates and tours. ◆Umi-no Hotel Isaba｜Facility Overview◆ 【Address】3878-20 Heda, Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture 【Access】Approximately 50 minutes by bus from Shuzenji Station to Heda. A shuttle bus is also available 【Telephone】0558-94-3048 【Official Website】Umi-no Hotel Isaba https://www.isaba.co.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Umi-no Hotel Isaba https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g1019668-d1065897-Reviews-Isaba-Numazu_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Aomori Nebuta Festival" Nebuta Production Video Introduction This video, titled “#003 Kenta Tatsuta, Nebuta-shi｜Door to Tomorrow by At Home” (#003 ねぶた師 立田 健太　|　明日への扉 by アットホーム), was released by “Door to Tomorrow by At Home” (明日への扉 by アットホーム). This video introduces the artisans who make the huge floats, "Nebuta," that parade through the city and are the main attraction at the famous Nebuta Festival in Aomori Prefecture. Since ancient times, the Tanabata Festival has been an annual event held in Japan to celebrate the seventh day of the seventh lunar month. The "Nebuta Festival" and "Neputa Festival" held in Aomori Prefecture have also been held as part of this Tanabata event. At this point you’re probably wondering what the differences between the Nebuta and Neputa Festivals are. The biggest difference is that the Nebuta Festival features three-dimensional, dynamic, human-shaped floats with samurai artwork on them, while the Neputa Festival features flat floats. Another difference is that the Nebuta Festival is held in Aomori City, while the Neputa Festival is held in the Tsugaru region, in places like Hirosaki. The artisans who create Nebuta are now considered specialists and are called “Nebuta-shi” (ねぶた師, “Nebuta Artist/Craftsman”) in Japanese. The History of the Nebuta Festival Photo：Nebuta, Aomori Prefecture Today, the Nebuta festival is recognized as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. The meaning of Nebuta/Neputa is "sleepy" and actually written using the same kanji (眠た). In the Edo Period, a festival called "Nemuri-nagashi" (眠り流し) was held in many places to lull people to sleep during the summer. The Nebuta Festival has the same origins as Sendai's Tanabata Festival, Akita's Kanto Festival, and Fukushima's Nemuri Nagashi. During the Edo period, Aomori Prefecture was divided into the Nanbu Domain and the Hirosaki Domain (Tsugaru domain). In the Nanbu Domain, the word "Nebutai" was used to describe sleepiness, and in Hirosaki, the word "Neputai" was used, which led to the distinction between the Nebuta and Neputa Festivals. How Nebuta Are Made Photo：How nebuta are made - pitching a tent, Aomori Prefecture Nebuta feature samurai paintings based on traditional Japanese myths and folk tales. They are characterized by the use of poetic justice to defeat demons and evil spirits at decisive moments. In the video, starting at 5:16, you can see how Nebuta are made by the young Nebuta craftsman "Kenta Tatsuta" who apprenticed himself to Nebuta master "Ryusei Uchiyama" at the age of 14. Here, we’ll give a brief introduction of the work of a Nebuta craftsman. ・The Making of Nebuta, Step 1 - Materials and Rough Sketching The rough sketches are the blueprints for the Nebuta. ・The Making of Nebuta, Step 2 - Pitching a Tent A tent is built for the production of Nebuta. The purpose of this is to prepare the details using wood, frame it using wire, color it, and then store the finished Nebuta. ・The Making of Nebuta, Step 3 - Electrical Wiring Since the Nebuta Festival is a nighttime festival, light bulbs are installed inside the floats so that the samurai stand out against the night sky. ・The Making of Nebuta, Step 4 – Kamihari (紙はり) Washi paper is pasted onto the completed framework. At this point, the whole picture becomes a little clearer. Source :YouTube screenshot ・The Making of Nebuta, Step 5 – Kakiwari (書割) The outline of the samurai is drawn on the paper pasted with ink. This is a very important process and has long been considered a task that only Nebuta craftsmen can perform. ・The Making of Nebuta, Step 6 – Rokaki (ろう書き) A special material made of melted paraffin is used. Where paraffin is applied, the paper becomes translucent and bright. ・The Making of Nebuta, Step 7 - Coloring The remaining paper is colored. ・The Making of Nebuta, Step 8 – Daiage (台上げ) The completed Nebuta is placed on a platform with wheels. A large group of people (around 50) carefully take the work outside. At 8:00 in the video, you can see an incident where a mistake is made and the work has to be repaired. Training Nebuta Craftsman Successors Photo：Nebuta, Aomori Prefecture Originally, the production of Nebuta was carried out by neighborhood associations and other such groups. However, the skilled workers in the neighborhood associations were so enthusiastic about making Nebuta that they neglected their own work. However, as the Nebuta Festival became a Japanese festival known on a global scale, and as Nebuta production techniques gradually became more sophisticated, the number of Nebuta craftsmen became fixed and professional Nebuta craftsmen were born. The Nebuta Festival is a festival where gallant Nebuta performances parade through the streets, jumping up and down to the musical accompaniment, but it's also a competition to determine the best Nebuta. Nebuta craftsmen who create outstanding Nebuta works are honored as "Masters." Summary of the Nebuta Festival – A Popular Event in Aomori Prefecture Photo：Nebuta, Aomori Prefecture Being a Nebuta craftsman is not an easy job. Kenta Tatsuta, the Nebuta craftsman featured in the video, even struggles to make ends meet. It is a job that requires a passion for Nebuta. We want people to know that it's only with the help of the people behind the scenes, such as the Nebuta craftsmen, that the magnificent and gorgeous Nebuta Festival can be held. At the same time, the Nebuta Festival holds a beauty contest to select Miss Nebuta. The woman who wins the Miss Nebuta award will lead the Nebuta during the festival, adding to the festivities!

The Best Cooker for Making Delicious Camping Food Camping is becoming extremely popular in Japan. It's also attracting attention from people who have never camped before. One of the pleasures of camping is eating delicious food in the outdoors. Unfortunately, it can be surprisingly expensive to prepare cooking equipment from scratch. In this article, we'll introduce practical cookware that can be purchased for less than 10,000 yen. Video Introduction This video, titled "[Under 10,000 yen] 10 Pieces of Camping Equipment: Cookware Ver., 2020 Edition" (【1万円以下】おすすめキャンプ道具10選 調理器具編2020年版), was uploaded by "Camp Lab" (キャンプ研究所). The channel uploads a variety of videos for beginners and intermediate campers. 10 Pieces of Useful Camping Cookware for Under 10,000 Yen Photo：A family camping Many people in Japan have gotten hooked on camping after watching the hit anime Laid-Back Camp. Camping equipment differs from ordinary daily necessities in that it's used outdoors. In particular, safety, price, and the feel of cookware are incredibly important when camping. Many family campers travel to campsites via car, but they still hesitate to purchase bulky and expensive camping utensils. This video introduces 10 pieces of camping cookware that all cost less than 10,000 yen (nly one item exceeds 10,000 yen). The video also explains why each piece of cookware is good for camping. The First Step in Making Delicious Camp Meals Is to Choose the Right Cookware Photo：Cooking while camping Camping offers an extraordinary experience by putting you in a slightly less convenient environment in the great outdoors. Eating is a major part of the fun of camping. Camping cookware is designed to be easy to use and carry outdoors, with various innovations and functionality in mind. Putting a bit of thought into your cookware can help you enjoy camping as a leisure activity. Hopefully with this video/article you can find some cookware that meets your needs. And with that out of the way, let's introduce the camping cookware shown in the video. 10 Cookware Recommendations From an Advanced Camper Photo：A single burner The person behind Camping Laboratory, the channel introducing the cookware in the video, is an advanced camper and camping influencer in Japan. As such, his selection criteria is quite strict, making this video great for both beginners and experienced campers alike. Be sure to take a look at it to see all of the different camping cookware introduced. ・SOTO ST-310 Single Burner Set Compact but offers high firepower, and works great as a gas burner for BBQ or use with grills! It's also compatible with CB cans which is a nice touch. This is a highly recommended piece of equipment for beginners it doesn't require you build a fire to start cooking. [Video] 1:38 - SOTO ST-310 Single Burner Set ・Cooker Stand When using the above gas burner, a cooker stand can be placed over the top of it to stabilize large pots and pans. It can also be folded for easy storage! [Video] 2:17 - Cooker Stand ・SOTO Stainless Steel Dutch Oven A thick stainless steel Dutch oven. This is the one item on this list that exceeds 10,000 yen. (Price quotes are around ¥20,000 for a 10-inch oven) Compared to cast iron cookware, it can be scrubbed with detergent and naturally dried, making it easy to maintain. Because of this it's recommended for outdoor beginners. A Dutch oven can also be used as a smoker! [Video] 3:39 - SOTO Stainless Steel Dutch Oven ・Uniflame Camping Cauldron If you're looking to cook tasty white rice in style, this is the cooker for you. The shape of the pot is very attractive. [Video] 7:15 - Uniflame Camping Cauldron Photo：A hot sandwich ・Coleman Hot Sandwich Cooker It comes with a set of handles and a case, making it easy to store and inexpensive. The cooker creates a nice branding on the bread and sandwiches can be easily eaten after cooking thanks to being cut in half. [Video] 8:12 - Coleman Hot Sandwich Cooker ・Lodge Skillet Very popular as a stylish frying pan in restaurants and as a household item. It's a versatile piece of cookware for outdoor cooking. Meat (or fish) and vegetables can be grilled together and served directly, using the skillet as a plate. The thick material retains heat and can be used for cooking over an open flame. It can be used to cook some delicious meats. [Video] 9:36 - Lodge Skillet ・Coleman Fireplace Kettle Although kettles are sold at Daiso and other 100-yen shops in Japan these days, you'll still want to use a specialized camping kettle for camping meals. This kettle is a good choice for those who are just getting into camping, as it offers both an affordable price and stylish appearance. [Video] 11:58 - Coleman Fireplace Kettle ・Snow Peak Cooker - Trek 900 A lightweight cooker made of aluminum. This is a versatile piece of camping cookware that can be used as a pot for stew, a mess tin, a percolator, and a Sierra cup all in one, making it a useful piece for solo campers. It's lighter than a stainless-steel percolators as well. [Video] 12:11 - Snow Peak Cooker - Trek 900 ・Coffee Mill A must for those who want to grind coffee beans and for a fresh cup of coffee. Although slightly difficult to use at first, it's reasonably priced and nothing beats freshly ground coffee. [Video] 12:52 - Coffee Mill ・Barbecue Skewers This is not a piece of cookware, but rather a utensil for enjoying camping. It can be used by children as well, as they enjoy roasting marshmallows or other tasty snack on the skewer and roast it over the fire. [Video] 14:17 - Barbecue Skewers Summary The equipment you'll need will depend on what kind of cooking you want to do when camping. Having information from advanced campers who can explain the cooking utensils that they have actually used and enjoyed, along with the reasons why they were selected, is incredibly helpful if you're a beginner-level camper. Be sure to check out the video to see the different pieces of cookware. Enjoy cooking in the great outdoors and happy camping!

Video Introduction This video, titled "[Beginner Camping 2020 Ver. (6)] How to Choose a Stake Hammer for Camping [Comparing and Reviewing 8 Hammers]" (【2020年版はじめてのキャンプ(6)】キャンプ用ペグハンマーの選び方【8個を比較レビュー】), was uploaded by "OUTDOOR BUYER's GUIDE by WEST." Stake Hammers for Camping Photo：Stake hammer With Japan's unprecedented camping boom, more and more people are getting in to solo or family camping. In this article, we'll introduce stake hammers, a useful tool for camping. If you're new to camping, you might be wondering, "What's a stake hammer?" or "Can't I just use a cheap rubber hammer from a 100-yen store instead?" To answer the first question, a stake hammer is a tool for hammering stakes (metal wedge-like tools that are driven into the ground to secure the ropes of a tent or tarp) into the ground. The difference between a stake hammer and a common hammer is that a stake hammer is also used for removing stakes. At first glance, stake hammering and stake removal may seem like very simple tasks, but depending on the compatibility of the stakes and hammer used, setting up and taking down tents and tarps can become surprisingly efficient, making your camping experience even more enjoyable. This article will introduce stake hammers that can be used by both beginners and experts while keeping in mind various things, such as specifications, popular models, weight, size, and design. This is a must-see for those looking to enjoy camping in the future, as well as for experienced campers looking for a reliable stake hammer. How to Choose the Right Stake Hammer Photo：Setting up a tent While being lightweight is often a priority for outdoor goods such as camping equipment, in the case of stake hammers, it's important to evaluate the overall durability, safety, and ease of use when purchasing a stake hammer. In addition, it's important to consider stake removal when choosing a stake hammer. We recommend choosing one that allows you to hook stakes with the other side of the hammer, opposite the striking surface. Also, if you have more than one stake hammer, you can decrease the amount of time it takes to set up your tents/tarps, etc. by having the other people you're camping with help hammer the stakes into the ground. When purchasing a tent or tarp, some products come with a rubber-headed stake hammer. However, they often cannot be used for stake removal, so it's better to purchase a special stake hammer at a home improvement center or specialty store for mountain climbing. 8 Stake Hammers Recommended by a Camping Professional Source :YouTube screenshot Here, we'll go over the stake hammers introduced in the video. ・Snow Peak PRO. S Stake Hammer The steel head makes it easy to hammer stakes into the ground. It has a beak-shaped stake puller, so it works well with compatible stakes or stakes with large hooks; it is not suitable for Y-stakes, etc. [Video] 1:11 - Snow Peak PRO. S Stake Hammer ・Snow Peak PRO. C Stake Hammer The striking portion of the snow peak PRO.S stake hammer is made of copper. Copper is softer than steel, so it's effective at reducing impact when striking. However, the softness of copper causes more wear and tear, so the striking portion should be replaced routinely. The PRO.C is priced higher than the PRO. S. [Video] 4:23 - Snow Peak PRO. C Stake Hammer ・Coleman Stake Hammer A stainless-steel stake hammer with a stake puller. Recommended for smaller hands. It's relatively lightweight, but the center of gravity is at the top, so it feels good to use. The stake puller may not be suitable for some stake shapes. [Video] 6:32 - Coleman Stake Hammer ・CAPTAIN STAG Aluminum Stake Hammer (Blue) Aluminum is used for the grip while the head is cast metal. This lightweight stake hammer is great for female campers and is compatible with lightweight stakes such as Y-stakes and X-stakes. On the other side of the striking surface is a small scoop, which is very useful when removing stakes, with some campers using this hammer exclusively for removing stakes. [Video] 8:12 - CAPTAIN STAG Aluminum Stake Hammer (Blue) ・CAPTAIN STAG Rubber Hammer The head is made of rubber. This is the same type of stake hammer generally included with tents and tarps. The head is soft, so it is very safe, but it is not suitable for hitting hard stakes. Also, it doesn't come with a stake puller, so you may want to think of it as a camping tool that kids can use. [Video] 10:55 - CAPTAIN STAG Rubber Hammer ・CAPTAIN STAG Forged Sledgehammer (2 lb) Weighing about 1 kg, it should be considered a stake hammer for hard stakes only. Because it's heavy, it's not very easy to carry, and it doesn't come with a stake puller. That being said, it works great for campsites with hard ground. [Video] 12:15 - CAPTAIN STAG Forged Sledgehammer (2 lb) ・MSR Stake Hammer Suitable for lightweight stakes and for removing stakes. Compact and lightweight for easy storage, recommended for solo camping or as a backup stake hammer. [Video] 14:09 - MSR Stake Hammer ・NEMO Meldr Hammer A well-balanced hammer, with a hole on the back of the head and stake puller on the grip end that doubles as a bottle opener. [Video] 16:04 - NEMO Meldr Hammer Summary of Stake Hammers for Camping in Japan In addition to those shown in the video, there are also other types of stake hammers that use brass on the striking surface to soften the impact, as well as products with cases for easy storage. Tool selection is very important when camping. Whether you're a beginner to camping and considering purchasing a stake hammer, or an experienced camper looking for a stake hammer that's easier to use, be sure to check out the video to see how each hammer can be used and find the hammer that's right for you!

Handy Goods From Japan's 100-Yen Shops Camping is immensely popular in Japan! With camping's rise in popularity, solo campers looking to explore nature are on the rise. However, it can be a bit pricey to get started camping when you have to buy all of the equipment. This is where 100-yen shops like DAISO, Seria, and Watts come in handy. In this article, we'll introduce some 100-yen items that can be used for solo camping. Video Introduction This video, titled "[100-Yen Camping Gear] 100-Yen Items That kimu23 Would Use When Solo Camping" (【100均キャンプ道具】きむ23のソロキャンプに使えそうな100均アイテム), was uploaded by "CAMP HACK," a channel run by kim23, a popular Japanese YouTuber and avid solo camper. For important items, like tents, sleeping bags, and sierra cups, you can get authentic outdoor gear, but for casual camping gear and useful outdoor goods, 100-yen shops are the place to go! At Japan's 100-yen shops, you can find many lightweight and easy-to-use items. You may find it easier to get started with solo camping casually by first purchasing 100-yen items, and then gradually moving on to more authentic camping gear. Japan's 100-Yen Shops and Camping Equipment Photo：DAISO The three 100-yen stores that carry the stylish camping equipment featured in the video are DAISO, Seria, and Watts. In response to Japan's recent solo camping boom, 100-yen shops now offer full lineups of outdoor-related goods. Also, you can use different items for different purposes, such as kitchenware and gardening tools, by slightly modifying them, or even by making your own camping tools. The best part is that 100-yen goods are easy on the wallet! Precautions When Buying Camping Gear From Japan's 100-Yen Shops Photo：Outdoor goods for sale In the video introduced here, goods from a 100-yen store are used as outdoor items. However, it's important to note that some of the items in the video are not used how they were originally intended to be used. Since this is not how the manufacturer recommends using them, if you use them as camping equipment, you'll be using them at your own risk. Care should also be taken around campfires. Outdoor Equipment From Japan's 100-Yen Shops Shown in the Video So, with that out of the way, let's take a look at the 100-yen camping gear introduced in the video. These 100-yen items, which are not originally intended for outdoor use, are transformed into useful outdoor goods! Check out the video to see how they're used! Source :YouTube screenshot ■5-Piece 500 Yen Burner Boil water and enjoy simple cooking with just 5 items: a stainless-steel plate, a stainless-steel bowl, a paulownia wood cutting board, solid fuel, and a cooker stand from Seria! [Video] 1:00 - ¥500 Burner made with 5 100-yen items ■A tiered accessory container that can be used as a seasoning container. Store salt, pepper, and other powdered seasonings in these containers made to hold small beads, decorative parts, and other items. The small containers can also be connected together, and there's even an 8-tiered type as well, so those who are particular about their spices can use this to keep their camping food nice and tasty! [Video] 3:04 - A seasoning container using an accessory case Source :YouTube screenshot ■Cosmetic carrying containers for liquid condiments Seria's cosmetic refill set can hold three types of liquids. It comes with a clear zip-up case, which is great for preventing leaks. [Video] 4:33 - Cosmetic containers used for liquid condiments ■Bungee cord with clips When camping or outdoors, there are sure to be times when you want to hang something to dry. In such cases, Seria's bungee cord with clips can be used for various purposes. Since both ends can be hooked to something, you can hang various things by hooking the cord to a tarp and then hanging different items with the clips. [Video] 5:27 - Bungee cord with clips ■Flexible band carabiner for hanging a lantern The band can be wrapped around a pole to hang a lantern. [Video] 6:05 - Flexible band with carabiner Source :YouTube screenshot ■A tableware band to hold cups together Even when camping solo, you may want to bring some small dishes with you. In such cases, these tableware band can hold the dishes firmly together when stacked. [Video] 6:30 - Tableware band ■Ultra-light stainless steel chopsticks Lightweight and non-slip stainless steel chopsticks [Video] 7:00 - Stainless steel chopsticks ■Mini tongs that don't tip over when set down Although palm-sized, these tongs are surprisingly convenient even for grabbing heavy items. [Video] 7:18 - Mini BBQ tongs ■Mini crates for LP gas canisters These mini crates are stackable if you have several of them. They're great for neatly storing smaller items when solo camping. [Video] 7:35 - Mini crates ■A mini stool that you can place items on The mini crates above, as well as other items you don't want to set on the ground, can be placed on top of this simple folding chair from Seria. [Video] 8:03 - Mini stool Source :YouTube screenshot ■Stylish garbage bags If you don't like the look of simple trash bags, Seria's temperature retaining paper bags can be used to create a brightly colored trash corner. They're also convenient for separating burnable and non-burnable trash. [Video] 8:20 - Temperature retaining bags as trash bags for solo camping ■A mini pipe-hammer that's more than meets the eye DAISO's mini hammer can also be used to hammer stakes. It may require a little technique, but it's great for when you want to lighten your load as much as possible when solo camping. [Video] 9:32 - Mini stake hammer ■ A carabiner for use in places where stakes can't be used If there are trees or stones in the place where you want to stake a rope and you can't, you can use DAISO's 3-hook carabiner to split the rope into two halves. A small item that does an unexpectedly large job. [Video] 10:03 - 3-hook carabiner ■A wire trash rack used as a firewood rack A trash rack used with a plastic bag becomes a firewood rack, to avoid firewood getting wet from being placed on the ground. It is also lightweight and compact. [Video] 10:54 - Wire firewood rack Source :YouTube screenshot ■An amazing stainless steel towel rack used as a side table A stainless-steel towel rack that can be used as a side table for solo campers. The shape can be used to hang things as well. It can be used for other purposes as well, according to your needs. [Video] 11:21 - Campfire side table ■Sliding wire sink rack Usually used for sinks, but can also be hooked to a fire pit to boil water. [Video] 11:59 - Campfire rack ■Hanging clips for hanging up chopsticks and cups Can be used to hang chopsticks or gloves that to prevent them from falling on the ground [Video] 13:45 - Hanging clips ■900 yen for a convenient rack Assembling Watts' 3-tier Multi Free Rack allows you to organize your smallest goods for easy access. [Video] 14:55 - Multi free rack Summary of 100-Yen Shop Camping in Japan Camping is an outdoor leisure activity that can be enjoyed by one person or many, but it can require a large budget to prepare a full-scale set of camping equipment. For more expensive items, you can go for rentals or look for deals at specialty stores, but for smaller items, 100-yen goods can do the trick, as shown in the video. Solo camping, in particular, often involves day-trip camping and carrying gear alone, so compact 100-yen camping gear can be very useful! It is valuable to have information that introduces items that someone has actually used and found useful. Be sure to take a look at the video, which shows how these 100-yen camping items can be used.

Must-Know Knots for Campers Japan's camping boom has led to an increase in the number of people who have just started camping or are looking to get into camping. In this article, we'll introduce three useful knots for beginner campers, so anyone new to camping can familiarize them with knots, which are essential for setting up tents and tarps and a variety of other tasks. Video Introduction This video, titled "[Super Convenient] 3 Useful Rope Knots for Camping [Two Half-Hitches, Taut-Line Hitch, Bowline Knot]" (【超便利】キャンプで役立つロープの結び方3選【ツーハーフヒッチ・自在結び・もやい結び】), was uploaded by "MotoCamp" (MotoCamp【モトキャンプ】). Useful Knots for Camping and Other Outdoor Activities and How to Tie Them Photo：A knot Knots are incredibly useful for camping and outdoor activities. They can be used to secure tents to stakes or even hang a tarp. Furthermore, ropes are also very useful for hanging small camping equipment and drying dishes. However, if you just have a rope and don't actually learn how to tie knots, the rope is nothing more than a piece of rope. Therefore, learning how to tie knots is an important component of a comfortable camping trip or outdoor experience. Unfortunately, learning how to tie knots can be a bit challenging for beginners. Therefore, in this article, we'll introduce three practical knots that even beginners can learn. They're useful for camping and outdoor activities, so take this opportunity to learn them! How to Tie a Two-Half Hitch Source :YouTube screenshot The first knot we'll learn is the "Two-Half Hitch." [Video] 0:20 - Two Half Hitch This knot has three features: ・It's easy to tie ・It's relatively tight ・Useful for setting up tarps Now, let's take a look at how to tie it. Be sure to follow along with the video to see an actual demonstration of how each knot is tied. 1. Take the short end of the rope and pass it under the long end and then pull the short end through the loop it creates. 2. Do the exact same thing directly below the first loop and then pull the short end of the rope upwards towards to first knot to tighten it. 3. Pull the long end of the rope tight and you're done! The rope will now be securely fastened to the post. It's easy to untie this knot, so be sure to try it a few times to make sure you've got the hang of it. How to Tie a Taut-Line Hitch Source :YouTube screenshot The second knot we'll talk about is the "Taut-Line Hitch." [Video] 1:24 - Taut-Line Hitch The features of this knot are as follows: ・The length of the rope can be easily adjusted. ・Convenient for securing stakes when setting up a tent. Now let's take a look at how you tie a Taut-Line Hitch. 1. Once again, take the short end of the rope and pass it under the long end and then pull the short end through the loop it creates. 2. Again, just like the Two-Half Hitch, do the same thing below the first knot, except this time create some distance between the first and second knots. 3. Then, pass the shorter rope through the loop created between the two knots once more. 4. Tie another knot below the second knot. Finally, tighten the rope and you're done. The rope doesn't wiggle when pulled, but the length can be adjusted by holding above the knot and pulling. How to Tie a Bowline Knot Source :YouTube screenshot The final knot we'll go over is the "Bowline Knot." [Video] 3:59 - Bowline Knot The perks of this knot are: ・It's tight ・Convenient for securing ropes It takes some practice, but it is one of the most important and basic knots, and is essential for enjoying outdoor activities and camping. With that out of the way, let's learn how to tie a Bowline Knot. 1. Make a loop with the longer rope. 2. Below that loop, pinch the rope together and pass it through the loop you just made from the top. 3. Pass the end of the shorter rope through the loop sticking out of the other loop from underneath. 4. Pull the short long end away from the short end to form a knot. This secures the knot and completes the Bowline Knot, which will not budge in the slightest. This knot is also called the "King of Knots." Because of its strength, this knot is frequently used not only for camping and outdoor activities, but also for mountain climbing, loading trucks, and even on construction sites. If you're employed in a field that uses knots, the Bowline Knot can be incredibly useful. Summary of Essential Knots for Beginner-Level Outdoor Enthusiasts Photo：Guy lines There are many more knots than this. If you're serious about camping, mountain climbing, or any other outdoor activities, learning how to tie knots is important. If you can learn how to tie knots, you'll be able to set up tarps, tents, and hammocks using trees and rocks even in places where the ground is too hard for stakes. Knots can also be used to secure yourself to something in the event of a natural disaster, or to carry an injured or sick person to safety. Finally, here are a few more important knots you can look up. ・The Figure-Eight Knot: A knot that won't come undone even if it's caught on something. ・The Clove Hitch: A knot that acts as a stopper when your rope is not long enough. ・The Butterfly Knot (Butterfly Loop): Convenient and practical for hanging something or for drying clothes. ・The Trucker's Hitch: which can be more strongly secured by tying a double knot. All of these knots are useful for camping and outdoor activities. If you try to learn too many at once, it may be difficult to remember how to tie them. We recommend by starting with the three knots shown in the video so that you can use them immediately in camping and outdoor situations. They may come in handy in unexpected situations!

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

The 0 Series Shinkansen Returns as the World’s Slowest Bullet Train/Railway Hobby Train! The video "[Railway Hobby Train] Debut｜Ehime Newspaper," (「鉄道ホビートレイン」デビュー・愛媛新聞), released by "ehimenp," is about the 0 series Shinkansen (The world’s slowest bullet train) running on the JR Shikoku Yodo Line, which stops at Uwajima station and Chikanaga station. This line runs along the Shimanto River. The Shinkansen is Japan's high-speed railway, celebrating its 50th anniversary. The first Shinkansen train to celebrate this anniversary is the 0 series, a car with a cute round nose that everyone has seen at one time or another. The 0 series Shinkansen can be seen at 1:10 in the video. Although the 0 series Shinkansen was retired in 2008, a diesel train car was converted to a 0 series Shinkansen-style train in 2014 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Yodo Line, which runs from Kochi Prefecture to Ehime Prefecture in the Shikoku region. That happens to be the "Railway Hobby Train" introduced in the video. The nicknames of the 0 series shinkansen are Hikari and Kodama. At the time, it attracted a lot of attention in Japan and around the world as a high-speed train that ran at the world's highest speed of 210km/h. Of course, the Railway Hobby Train is a sightseeing train, and since it is a slow-moving diesel train, it cannot achieve such high speeds, but you can enjoy a scenic tour of Shikoku while being gently rocked by the lovely dumpling-nosed cars of the nostalgic 0 series Shinkansen, which look just like the original. The cute Railway Hobby Train can be seen at 0:55 in the video. The Charm of the 0 Series Shinkansen Photo：Railway Hobby Train The Railway Hobby Train is a set of three cars that run on the Yodo Line. In addition to the 0 series Shinkansen train introduced in the video, there is the Shiman Trolley, which can be seen from 6:04 and the Kaiyodo Hobby Train, which can be seen at 6:09. Together with these trains, the three brothers of the Yodo Line are the centerpiece of the regional development. In other words, when we talk about railway hobby trains, we're referring to these three types of trains. Among them, the 0 series hobby train shown in the video is the most popular! Children and Adults Alike Are Excited! the Secrets of the Railway Hobby Train! Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see from 3:06 in the video, the Series 0 Shinkansen Railway Hobby Train has a model display area inside the train, where the very popular Plarail issue is on display, making it a true dream train for train enthusiasts and children. The Series 0 Shinkansen Hobby Train is based on the Kiha 32 series train, and a fully colored version of the popular N gauge product called "Micro Ace" is also available. The 0 series Shinkansen was also featured in the popular children's anime "Shinkansen Transforming Robot Shinkarion," so the 0 series Shinkansen is not only for old fans, but a dream come true for children as well. We recommend checking the operation status of the train on the official JR Shikoku website in advance, as it is expected to be very crowded on the days when the train is running. Summary of the Railway Hobby Train Source :YouTube screenshot There is a museum called Shikoku Railway Cultural Center in Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture. Here, there are 0 series train cars, that actually were once active as shinkansen, on display. In other words, Shikoku is a holy land for railway enthusiasts. The Railway Hobby Train also has a photo corner, but for those who want to take photos of the cute train cars traveling through the magnificent nature of Shikoku, the best place to do so is near the railway bridge on the Yodo Line over the Shimanto river. Don't forget to check the timetable in advance, as Shikoku is often hit by typhoons and operations are cancelled when the weather is bad. Also, the three hobby train brothers are limited to one run per day! Don't miss your chance! 【Tripadvisor】Railway Hobby Train https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g608510-d10758981-Reviews-Tetsudo_Hobby_Train_Yodo_Line_JR_Shikoku-Uwajima_Ehime_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

The Heavy Machinery of Modern Japanese Forestry This video is "cutting with the powerful of heavy machinery（重機の強力なパワーで伐採）" produced by "takao kuboki" In recent years, it is said that the shortage of people is serious in primary industries, such as forestry. Forestry in particular is facing the problem of an aging population and lack of successors. Japanese satoyama (undeveloped woodland near populated area) cannot be grown into a healthy forest unless humans cut down unnecessary/predatory trees. That's where heavy machinery for cutting down trees comes in. The power to grab trees and move them around like pencils is amazing. Enjoy the powerful scenes of Japan's heavy logging machinery. The Power and Performance of Japan's Heavy Machinery! Source :YouTube screenshot The highlights of this video are around 0:54 and 01:28. A scene in which the tip of the heavy machine arm is dexterously manipulated, and a single tree is grabbed and knocked down with a crash. It’s only about 20 seconds long, but quite amazing to see. One tree is felled, creating a cloud of snow. Unless thinning is performed in this way, sunlight will not reach the ground and these "satoyama" will become unhealthy mountains. Forestry is a very important industry, as roughly 70% of Japan is covered in forests. Demand for heavy equipment operators will continue to increase if younger people don't take up the profession. The Amazing Skills of Japan's Heavy Machinery Operators Photo：Heavy Machinery Heavy machinery are dedicated vehicles used in civil engineering and construction. There are cranes, excavators, forklifts, road rollers, bulldozers, aerial platforms, unic (mini crane), digging / rock drilling / boring vehicles, wheel loaders, dump trucks, heavy equipment carriers, and loads more. Working in the snow from the beginning of this video is a heavy machine equipped with a type of arm called a "baguette" Heavy equipment is expensive even for used vehicles, and it is difficult for small and medium sized enterprises to buy them. Because of that, many people use rentals or lease them. The video shows logging in the forest, but small-sized excavators are useful in logging due to slopes and poor scaffolding. How to Get a Heavy Equipment License in Japan? What Vehicles Are Suitable for Logging? Photo：A Harvester Special qualifications (licenses) are required to operate heavy equipment in Japan. Heavy machinery is highly specialized vehicles used only in specific places. Therefore, qualifications according to the purpose are required. Here are some of them. ・Operation of vehicle construction equipment for leveling, transportation, loading and excavation. ・ Operation of vehicle construction equipment for foundation work. ・Operation of vehicle construction machinery (for dismantling). ・Operation of a shovel loader. To operate an excavator, a commonly used vehicle, you need one of the following qualifications: "Vehicle-based construction machine driving skill training" or "Special education on the operation of small vehicle-based construction machinery" Summary of the Video (The Myths of Heavy Machinery Vehicles in Japan) Japan's heavy equipment is used in many places around the world. Many heavy equipment manufacturers, such as Komatsu, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, and IHI Construction Machinery, are different from ordinary automobiles, and, they are successful in the world's leading industries. This video introduces heavy machinery in Japan that cuts down forests in snowy "satoyama." Enjoy the powerful logging scenes and the craftsmanship of heavy equipment operators who can knock down trees brilliantly even on sites with poor scaffolding.

The Takaoka Copper Casting of Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture – A Traditional Japanese Craft This video, titled "手技TEWAZA「高岡銅器」Takaoka Copper Casting," was produced by "Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square." It introduces Takaoka Copper Casting, a traditional craft in Takaoka City, Toyama. Takaoka Copper Casting in Takaoka City, Toyama originates from a factory opened in the Edo period (1603 – 1868 AD) by Maeda Toshinaga in the Kaga Maeda Clan with the seven metal casters from Tamba, Kyoto, said to be the birthplace of metal casting. Most of the Takaoka Copper Casting products are related to Buddhist tools such as vases and a large part of the production process involves the attentive handiwork of artisans. The traditional Japanese craftsmanship is appreciated even outside of Japan. The Takaoka Great Buddha at Daibutsuji Temple (大佛寺, Daibutsu-ji) is said to be one of the most impressive pieces made by the Takaoka Copper Casting artisans. This is a rare video that introduces the production process of Takaoka Copper Casting. Please enjoy watching the craftsmanship of the Takaoka copper casting artisans. Takaoka Copper Casting: One of the Greatest Treasures in Japanese Culture- How It's Done Source :YouTube screenshot Takaoka Copper Casting is essentially produced with a metal casting technique where a piece of metal is melted at high temperature and poured into a mold to form the desired shape. Japanese metal casting techniques are highly recognized worldwide, and the metal casting of Takaoka City, Toyama is especially famous. Now, let's take a look at how Takaoka Copper Casting products are made. 1. Making the original model (0:18) Based on the blueprint, a prototype is created using wood, plaster, clay and resin. This prototype becomes the grand image of the final product. 2. Making the mold (0:29) A fire-resistant material is used for the original model, and a casting is made to pour the copper into. This is said to be the most important step. The mold made from casting sand is an example of exquisite craftsmanship. 3. Refining and melting (0:44) Refining refers to the process of removing impurities and increasing the purity of the metal. The refined metal is melted and liquefied at high temperatures.. The molten copper alloy reaches 1200 degrees Celsius in this process. 4. Casting (1:00) The refined molten copper is poured into the casting. 5. Removing the mold (1:23) The cooled and hardened copper is removed from the casting and the finishing process begins. 6. Polishing (1:48) The product is beautifully polished. 7. Coloring (2:05) After coloring and inlays are added, the work is complete! At 1:31 in the video, one of the Takaoka Copper Casting artisans explains “We hope that our Buddhist statues and monuments will convey what the customer had in mind, and will be loved.” The Art Pieces of Takaoka Copper Casting Gained Worldwide Popularity at the World Expo in Paris Source :YouTube screenshot A number of art pieces such as Buddhist statues and vases made using Takaoka Copper Casting were exhibited at the World Expo in Paris, and the name has come to be known around the world. These reason these artifacts are so beautifully shaped is because they were developed through producing bronze casting products adorned with carvings. In Takaoka City, Toyama, the descendants of the master craftsmen of the past have inherited the traditional crafting techniques and skills and have created many works of art. They continue to do so even today. Summary of Takaoka Copper Casting Source :YouTube screenshot The entire process of Takaoka Copper Casting has been done with the careful handiwork of artisans for more than 400 years. "We want to pass down the 400-year-old technique to the next generation," says one of the Takaoka Copper Casting artisans at 2:26 in the video. To inherit this valuable Japanese culture, Takaoka City has held workshops of Takaoka Copper Casting to train potential artisans. Miyuki-cho in Takaoka City has the Takaoka Copper Casting Museum where you can see and purchase products. Some large bronze statues are valued at millions of yen (tens of thousands of dollars). Takaoka Copper Casting products are also available at online marketplaces such as Rakuten and Amazon, and include ochoko (small sake cups), ornaments, paperweights, and more. The most popular ones are made by Takenaka Bronze Works Co.,Ltd. The company donated a 1/100 scale bronze casting model to Zuiryuji Temple (瑞龍寺, Zuiryuji), a temple designated as a National Treasure, in Takaoka City. The temple is one of the most popular tourist spots in Takaoka City renowned for its spring event of lighting up the temple, where the bones of Oda Nobunaga and his son are buried. Tourists can visit the grave of Maeda Toshinaga, who was deeply involved in the history of Takaoka Copper Castings, by way of a path called Hocchodo, lined with stone lanterns. In recent years, nine companies that are members of the Takaoka Copper Industry Cooperative Society have made original "Takaoka Wind Chimes" and sold them at the Takaoka Regional Industry Center, Takaoka Mikurumayama Museum, and shops where crafts are sold. 【Official website】Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/