Official Author

児玉 勇（Yu Kodama）

More Than 60 Years of Space Development at JAXA The video this time is titled "JAXA - The History of Japanese Space Exploration" (JAXA－日本の宇宙開発史ハイライト－), released by "JAXA | Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency." By looking up at the starry sky, many people ponder their own thoughts... we've been gazing up at the sky as a source of wisdom since ancient times. There was a time in Japan, too, when Onmyodo (the way of Yin and Yang) played an active role in politics by reading the movements of the stars and predicting good fortune. There's truly an inseparable link between humans and the cosmos. It is often misunderstood that Japan lags behind Europe and the United States in space development, but in fact, Japan has devoted more than 60 years to space development and is now one of the most successful countries in the world. JAXA plays a central role in Japan's space development. In this article, we’ll introduce the history of JAXA's space development. Be sure to follow along with the video! The History of Jaxa's Space Development Photo：Moon landing JAXA is the core organization for space development in Japan. It was established at the Tanegashima Space Center (TNSC) in 2003 through a merger between the Institute of Space and Astronautical Science (ISAS), the National Aerospace Laboratory (NAL), and the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA). The three predecessor organizations were all privately funded space development agencies, but after being reborn as JAXA, they became the core organization supporting the Japanese government's space development research. The latest Japanese space probes have the world's leading technology. Here are some of JAXA's accomplishments that have left their mark on history. ・In 2007, the world's first high-definition image of the moon by the Lunar Explorer KAGUYA. (Video: 0:47〜) ・In 2009, the Japanese Experiment Module "Kibo" was completed. (Video: 0:53〜) ・In 2010, the planetary probe "Hayabusa" returned to Earth after successfully collecting surface samples from an asteroid. (Video: 0:58〜) ・In 2019, "Hayabusa2," an observation rocket, successfully touched down on the asteroid Ryugu. (Video : 1:00〜) JAXA has accomplished many great feats in the 17 years since it was founded. Japan's Space Development Before the Birth of JAXA Source :YouTube screenshot Japan's space development began in 1955 with the development of the Pencil Rocket, a very small rocket, as introduced in the beginning of the video. Just ten years after the war, Japan had already begun its domestic reconstruction and space development. In 1970, Japan's first satellite, "OHSUMI," was successfully launched. In 1985, Halley's comet was observed by "Suisei," in 1992, Mamoru Mohri became the first Japanese person to fly in space aboard a space shuttle, and in 1994, the Japan-made H-II rocket was successfully launched. Japan has a long history of great achievements even before the birth of JAXA. Summary of JAXA and Japan's Space Development Photo：Rocket It is said that Japan's space development had been attracting a great deal of attention after its Pencil launch test in 1955. The Pencil Rocket was nicknamed the "baby rocket" because of its extremely small size, with three types being developed: the S-type, T-type and R-type. At that time, the Pencil Rocket was already moving at close to the speed of sound, and the orbital data was utilized for the later Kappa Rockets. Back then it was thought to be impossible for Japan to develop a sounding rocket that could operate at an altitude of more than 100 km, but Japan succeeded in doing so using domestic technology alone. Although the U.S. and the Soviet Union have been the major space powers, Japan's technological prowess has been adopted by other countries for their rocket development. In particular, the latest engine technology of "Hayabusa" and remote-control technology will be a great asset to the history of space development to come. 【Official Website】JAXA｜Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency https://global.jaxa.jp/

Introducing the Beautiful Ceramic Art, Bizen Ware This video, titled "TEWAZA (Handicraft) Bizen Pottery / Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square" (手技TEWAZA「備前焼」Bizen pottery／伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square), was released by "Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square." Bizen Ware is a traditional Japanese craft with a long history and is known as one of the "Six Ancient Kilns of Japan" and well as being known as "Inbe Yaki." Bizen Ware is a traditional pottery that is popular for its solid reddish/brownish color, glassy surface, and rugged texture, which are brought out by its unique unglazed appearance through a method of high-temperature firing via direct contact with the flame. A Closer Look at Okayama's Bizen Ware Photo：Bizen Ware Bizen Ware is made of unique clay obtained from the rice fields in Okayama Prefecture. It is called one of the "Six Ancients Kilns" because it can be found in literature dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 AD). Since then, Bizen Ware has continued to produce tea ware masterpieces and successors are still being trained today. Bizen Ware has long been a prominent part of the culture and industry of Okayama Prefecture, located in Japan's Chugoku Region (中国地方, Chugoku-Chiho), and is a representative pottery of Japan. Bizen Ware is a popular pottery with ancient traditions and prestige, and is valued highly, as some of the most famous kilns have produced artists and craftsmen who have been designated as living national treasures. Having said that, modern Bizen ware is not so expensive that its unaffordable. After the Kamakura period (around 1185 to 1333 A.D.), Bizen Ware was no longer used solely by nobles and aristocrats, but was also popular as everyday utensils used by samurai and townspeople alike. The beautiful brownish and reddish color surfaces of Bizen Ware are created by the minerals contained in the special clay obtained in the vicinity of Okayama. It's fired by covering it with oily pine ashes and placing straw over it so that it is in direct contact with the flame. By firing it at high temperatures, the minerals contained in the clay become vitrified, increasing the strength and luster of the surface. Because no chemicals are used, the texture is not smooth like porcelain, but rugged with a rustic texture. How Bizen Ware is Made Source :YouTube screenshot 1. Kneading the clay (Video 0:34～) Bizen Ware commonly uses clay that lies 3-5 meters below the surface of a rice field. 2. Molding (Video 0:48～) Remove the air from the clay making it sticky and preventing cracks and crevices from forming. A potters wheel is used here. 3. Drying (Video 1:29～) Allow it to dry thoroughly. 4. Setting in a kiln (Video 1:44～) Pieces are carefully placed into the kiln to achieve the most beautiful firing results. 5. Firing the kiln (Video 2:28～) Each piece is fired for more than 10 days. Bizen Ware Patterns as Shown in the Video Source :YouTube screenshot You can see the finished pieces in the video. ・Goma (Video 3:03～) Ashes from the firewood fall on the pieces during the firing process. The ashes react with the soil and become vitrified, creating a variety of patterns. ・Sangiri (Video 3:12～) Charcoal is thrown into the kiln at the end of the firing process to create a pattern of contrasting color changes from white, blue, and yellow in parts. ・Hidasuki (Video 3:20～) This pattern is created by the reaction of the alkaline content of the straw and the iron content of the base material. Summary of Okayama's Bizen Ware Photo：Bizen ware The other name for Bizen Ware "Inbe Yaki" (Imbe Yaki) came from the local place named "Inbe." Now there are many Bizen Ware Pottery kilns and studios with galleries around Inbe Station in Okayama Prefecture, and the Bizen Ware Festival (also called the "Bizen Pottery Festival") held every autumn attracts many pottery fans and tourists from all over Japan. Even today, Okayama Prefecture promotes the history and culture of traditional Japanese crafts through Bizen Ware works. There are everyday products that can be used for everyday living, such as mugs and glasses for beer as well. 【Official Website】Bizen Ware | Traditional Crafts | Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/craft/0418/

Video introduction of "Gero Onsen Yunoshimakan", a registered tangible cultural property in Gifu Prefecture, Gero City. This video, titled "[Gero Onsen Yunoshima-kan] A Tangible Cultural Property" (【 下呂温泉 湯之島館 】 登録有形文化財), was created by "Multicopter Operating Drone Aerial photography" (マルチコプターオペレーティング ドローン 空撮). Yunoshimakan is a long-standing ryokan in Gero Onsen, established in 1931. Gero Onsen is one of Japan’s most famous hot springs, and Yunoshimakan is located at the top of a hill overlooking the town of Gero. The building was designated as a Tangible Cultural Property in 1947. In 1949, Yunoshimakan was designated a "Government Registered International Tourist Inn No. 8," by the Japanese government, which certifies that the hotel meets certain standards to ensure that foreign visitors to Japan can stay at the hotel with peace of mind. The ryokan has had the honor of accommodating the previous Emperor Showa in 1949, as well as the former Emperor Akihito in 1977. Gero Onsen's Yunoshimakan is popular on hotel and ryokan review and comparison websites for its excellent hospitality. Enjoy the charm of Gero Onsen's Yunoshimakan's vast 50,000-square-meter grounds in the amazing aerial footage filmed using the latest drone technology. Yunoshimakan: Enjoy a Variety of Deluxe Meals, Such as Hida Beef Cuisine, a Specialty of Gifu Prefecture, at Gero Onsen Source :YouTube screenshot Gero Onsen's Yunoshimakan offers a traditional Japanese-style dinner, where courses are brought to each individual room. Some examples of the menu are Hida beef sirloin steak and river fish dishes, such as ayu (sweetfish) and amago (red-spotted eel) caught in the local Masuda River, all of which are made from locally caught fish and locally raised livestock. They also offer a wide range of alcoholic-beverages, mainly from the Hida region. These sumptuous meals can be seen at 2:00 in the video. Breakfast, where you can sample a variety of Hida specialties, is served in a hall on the 8th floor. >br> A kid’s menu is also available for those traveling as a family. Yunoshimakan: A Traditional Japanese-Style Ryokan at Gero Onsen Source :YouTube screenshot In the Muromachi period (1336-1573), the poet and Buddhist monk Banri Shukyu, referred to Kusatsu, Arima, and Yushima as Japan's three most famous hot springs, and the Confucian philosopher of the Edo Period (1603-1868), Hayashi Razan, also quoted his words, making Gero widely known as one of Japan's most famous hot springs. The origin of the name Yunoshimakan is also derived from the ancient name of the place "Yushima" (lit. Island of Hot Springs). The springs of Gero Onsen are classified as simple alkaline hot springs with a source temperature of 55° Celsius and a pH level of 8.9. Gero Onsen is effective in treating neuralgia, myalgia, stiff shoulders, soreness, chronic digestive disorders, sensitivity to cold, fatigue, and more. The therapeutic water keeps your skin moist, and it's known as "Bijin no Yu" (a beauty spring). In the main building, there are rooms with elaborate designs, including an open-air bath, a Japanese garden, and guest rooms. Amenities are also provided at the hot springs, so there's no need to worry about bringing your own. You can check out the hot springs in the video at 1:27. There are several hot springs in the ryokan. Which one caught your eye? Tourist Spots Near Yunoshimakan at Gero Onsen Source :YouTube screenshot Gero Onsen is surrounded by the mountains, and due to the steepness of the mountains in Hida, it used to be a place for Shugendo (Japanese mountain asceticism) in the Asuka Period. At an elevation of 767m (2,500 ft.), each season offers various scenic views, such as green leaves and beautiful flowers. You can enjoy strolling around the woods and bird-watching on the trekking course or see fish swimming in the streams. Check out the video at 2:12 to see the beautiful scenery of Gero Onsen. Summary of Yunoshimakan at Gero Onsen Travel agencies offer various kinds of tours for Gero Onsen's Yunoshimakan. Be sure to check out the official website to see the prices and plans they offer each season. This video showed you an aerial view of Gero Onsen Yunoshimakan, a historical inn with hot springs offering ultimate relaxation. Step away from your busy city life and take a deep breath in the beautiful natural environment of Hida! ◆Outline of Gero Onsen Yunoshimakan◆ 【Address】645 Yunoshima, Gero City, Gifu 509-2207 【Access】5 minutes car ride from JR Gero station 【Parking】Free parking is available 【Phone number】0576-25-4126 【Official Website】Gero Onsen Yunoshimakan, A Tangible Cultural Property http://www.yunoshimakan.co.jp/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Yunoshimakan https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g788306-d1075236-Reviews-Yunoshimakan-Gero_Gifu_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

What is the Ig Nobel Prize? Do you know of the Ig Nobel Prize? This video, “The Winners of This Years Ig Nobel Prize Are Once Again Japanese (The Daily Saliva of 5 Year Old Children) イグノーベル賞今年も日本人『5歳児の1日の唾液量』(19/09/13)” introduces the awards ceremony of the Ig Nobel Prize, 2019. The Ig Nobel Prize is a parody of the Nobel Prize, with the first awards ceremony held in 1991 at Harvard University in Massachusetts, America. Now, it has become an annual event, and is a scientific award recognized worldwide. The selection criteria is research which “first makes people laugh, and then makes them think”, and similarly to the genuine Nobel Prize, the Ig Nobel Prize is made up of several different categories. In recent years, the Japanese winners of the Nobel Prize have been buzzed about, but in actuality, Japanese researchers have been awarded the Ig Nobel Prize for 13 consecutive years, beginning from 2007. The 2019 winner was Professor Watanabe Shigeru and his 5-man team from Meikai University. They were awarded the prize for their study on the “estimation of the total saliva volume produced per day in 5-year-old children”. What is the content of this year’s Japanese Ig Nobel Prize-winning study? Source :YouTube screenshot In 2019, Professor Watanabe’s team won the Ig Nobel Prize for chemistry. Their study involved measuring the amount of saliva produced by 5-year-olds in order to maintain the cleanliness of their oral cavity. The study consisted of the researchers feeding 5-year-old children a pre-determined volume of food, having them chew and then spit the food out without swallowing, then measuring the spat-out food and comparing the volume to that at the beginning of the experiment. Through this, the researchers estimated that the children produced about 500 milliliters of saliva per day. At the awards ceremony, the researchers reenacted the experiment using a banana. This can be seen from 0:14 in the video. Source :YouTube screenshot The winners of the prize have only 60 seconds to make a speech, with a girl named Miss Sweetie Poo crying out, “Please stop! I’m bored!” if that time limit is breached. This can be seen from 0:53 in the video. The awards ceremony begins with the audience throwing paper airplanes at the stage, followed by the winners entering on a rope. From start to finish, the venue is filled with laughter. It might seem difficult to win an award for science, but the Ig Nobel Prize is a unique international science award overflowing with humor and, occasionally, irony. However, the academic papers concerning these award-winning research studies have even been published in the English science journal “Nature”, showing that these studies have genuine scientific significance. An overview of the Japanese Ig Nobel Prize winners for 13 consecutive years Source :YouTube screenshot These are some of the main Japanese prize winners. ・1992 Kanda Fujihiroshi (Medicine): For the discovery of the chemical compounds responsible for foot malodor. The first Japanese winner. ・1997 Maita Aki (Economics): For “Tamagotchi”, which diverted millions of man-hours of work into the husbandry of virtual pets. That year was a double win for Japan, with the prize for Biology awarded to Yagyu Takashi. ・2002 Sato Keita and others (Peace): For inventing Bow-Lingual, a dog-to-human language translation device ・2004 Inoue Daisuke (Peace): For inventing karaoke, allowing people to spend a peaceful time together ・2016 Higashiyama Atsuki and others (Perception): For investigating whether things look different when you bend over and view them between your legs All of these and more are part of the 71 Japanese winners of the Ig Nobel Prize as of 2019. Summary of this video regarding the Ig Nobel Prize and the study on the amount of saliva produced in one day by 5-year-old children Source :YouTube screenshot Although Japan has a significant number of Ig Nobel Prize winners even compared to countries worldwide, in Asia, South Korea’s professors as well as religious experts have also been recipients of the prize. In addition, the study “cats are liquids”, which trended on the Internet, was actually conducted by a team of researchers from France. Of course, though cats are solid beings, they have extraordinary flexibility, and thus are occasionally seen as liquids. This humorous thesis invited many laughs from the audience. The reward for winning the Ig Nobel Prize is 10 trillion Zimbabwe dollars! However, this is a currency no longer in circulation and thus not even worth a penny…

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

Tojinbo" in Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture Video Introduction Tojinbo, in Fukui prefecture, located in Japan's Hokuriku region, is a series of vertical cliffs created by the rough waves of the Japan Sea. It is a rare type of sea cliff which can only been seen in 3 other places in the world. This video, titled "(4K) Aerial Drone Footage / Flown in Tojinbo in Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture" (【4K】福井県坂井市 東尋坊で飛ばしてみた / ドローン空撮), was produced by "Mattsu." The video shows the exposed rock face and jagged landscape of Tojinbo via aerial drone footage. The geological composition of the cliffs of Tojinbo is made up of pyroxene andesite and some of the cliffs tallest points are approximately 25m tall. Its strangely shaped pillars extend for 1km and it has been designated a Natural National Monument and Scenic Spot, and is also a part of the specially protected area of Echizen-Kaga Kaigan Quasi-National Park. It is also one of the world's 3 most geologically rare scenic spots, and therefore it is well known around the world. The origin of the name Tojinbo is said to have come from the name of a monk "Tojinbo" who lived long ago and was affiliated with Heisenji Temple and lost his life after being thrown off the cliff in a romantic tangle. After Tojinbo was thrown into the sea; another monk, his rival in love, was also pulled into the rough waves and tempestuous weather continued for 49 days. Or so the legend goes anyways... It is also famous for being used as a film location for climactic scenes in which the culprit tries to throw him or herself into the sea after making a confession in suspenseful TV dramas or movies. Tourist Attractions Around Tojinbo Photo：Tojinbo, Fukui Prefecture The Tojinbo cliffs, which is a rare rock formation even outside of Japan, is a famous place that even many Japanese would like to visit at least once. In order to preserve Tojinbo's amazing view there are no safety features such as fences installed there. You are able to walk around Tojinbo freely, however, please watch your step. The recommended tourist sites around Tojinbo are, Tojinbo Tower, Echizen Matsushima Aquarium, the caravan campsite Kyukamura Echizen Mikuni, Echizen Matsushima, Minato-machi Mikuni, Shibamasa World, and the Araiso Shoreline Esplanade. Also, if you take the Tojinbo/Oshima sightseeing boat tour, you will be able to see the cliff face from the ocean and will be able to enjoy all of the Instagrammable locations such as Lion Rock and Candle Rock. In addition, the Mikuni Fireworks Festival is held near Tojinbo in the summer and every year many tourists flock to see this event. Tojinbo's Famous Hot Springs and Gourmet Food! Photo：A crab dish When you the town Mikuni, in Sakai city, Fukui prefecture, that Tojinbo is in, try to stay at the Mikuni Kanko Hotel. Japan's Hokuriku region is famous for Echizen crab and the crab dishes made from Fukui's freshly caught crab are absolutely delectable! You should also definitely go to the nationally famous, Mikuni hot springs. Relax and rid yourself of stress by sightseeing in Tojinbo, eating delicious seafood and relaxing in the hot springs- All at the Mikuni Kanko Hotel. Summary of Tojinbo in Fukui Prefecture Source :YouTube screenshot One of the world's most beautiful sights! Directions (access by public transportation such as bus), parking, events and other information about Tojinbo in Fukui prefecture, can be seen on the Mikuni hot springs official website "Mikuni Marugoto Navi." Now that you've seen the beautifully taken drone footage, it’s time to see it in person! Tojinbo｜Sakai City Tourist Spots｜Sakai Tabinavi, the official tourism guide to Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture https://kanko-sakai.com/spot/k001/ 【Tripadvisor】Tojinbo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021160-d1385002-Reviews-Tojimbo_Cliff-Sakai_Fukui_Prefecture_Hokuriku_Chubu.html

Shimogo in Aizu, Fukushima This video, titled "Shimogo Promotion Video" (下郷町プロモーションビデオ), was uploaded by "ShimogoKanko." Shimogo is located in the center of Fukushima in Japan's Tohoku region. The area was known as Aizu until the Edo period (1603-1868) and it's a sightseeing spot with many charms. In Shimosato, there's a mountain in the direction of the rising sun where the gods are said to rest. You'll also find Kannon-numa Forest Park at the foot of the mountain, which can be seen from 2:39 in the video. You can enjoy the natural scenery of the four seasons nurtured by the harsh climate of Aizu, and in fall, the area around the swamp is decorated with the colorful, beautiful autumn foliage. This article will provide information on recommended sightseeing destinations in Shimogo, where the blessings of Japan's rich natural environment, scenery, history, and culture are intertwined, alongside the video. A Tour That Connects the Past and Present Photo：Ouchi-juku in autumn, Shimogo, Fukushima The history of Aizu was a series of turbulent events that were swallowed up by the swell of Japan's modernization. It's said that after the Meiji Restoration, the Aizu clansmen were forced to move to an undeveloped area called Nakatsuma, where they established Minami Aizu. The traditions such as the Hange Festival and Ouchijuku Snow Festival shown from 3:18 in the video, were handed down from their ancestors. Shimogo is a town where ancient Japanese culture and traditions remain and where the present meets the past. Fukushima is best visited during winter as the snowfall in the region creates beautiful landscapes. There is an event called "Mizuki-no-hana-dango" (みずきの花団子) during Little New Year. It is an event to pray for health and longevity and colorful dumplings are stuck into the branches of trees that haven’t yet sprouted. This is a unique Japanese custom in Aizu to enjoy the long winter. This can be seen from 3:33 in the video. Sightseeing Information for Shimogo Photo：Shimogo, Fukushima, To-no-Hetsuri The beautiful scenery of the nature-rich town of Shimogo has always amazed the tourists who come to see it. To-no-Hetsuri, a marvelous landscape created by the Aga River (阿賀川, Agagawa), is a photogenic spot that you don't want to overlook when sightseeing in Aizu. Also, the buckwheat fields of Sarugaku Plateau is a place where Aizu clansmen lived through the turbulent times of Japan from the end of the Edo period to the Showa period. These can be seen at 2:12 in the video. The Aizu Line is a popular line with direct access to the Tokyo metropolitan area and is full of peaceful views. From 2:07 in the video, you can see mountain cherries in Toaka, and at 3:51the Nakayama Snow, Moon, and Fire Festival, where igloos and lights decorate a snowy Aizu. There are many popular sightseeing spots in Shimogo, Fukushima, including a snowshoe experience which is filled with the wisdom of Fukushima's ancestors who have lived through the harsh winters. The Food Culture of Shimogo, Fukushima Photo：Minamiaizu's local cuisine, Shingoro The Aga River, a quiet, clear stream flowing through Shimogo, is an important river that nurtures abundant life and is necessary for preserving the local culinary culture of Aizu. Upstream, there are many hot spring hotels and inns where you can enjoy a steamy atmosphere. You can relax at hot springs such as Yunokami Onsen after a long day of sightseeing. Fukushima is also famous for rice production. Shingoro is a local delicacy of Shimogo. It's made by rolling up a special type of rice, sticking it on a skewer, coating it with Junen (a kind of egoma) miso, and grilling it over charcoal. At the roadside station and Shimogo Town Local Products Center, you can find a different kinds of souvenirs of local food, such as soba noodles and local sake. Summary of Shimogo, Fukushima Photo：Shimogo, Fukushima The spirits and thoughts of the Aizu clansmen who lived through the turbulent times in Japanese history can still be found in Shimogo. The ancient traditions are kept alive by the people who love their town. The Shingo Furusato Festival, Shingoro, and Hana-dango during Little New Year are designed to heal the hearts of tourists, and to keep the healing alive, they will be passed on to the future. Please enjoy the attractions of Shimogo, Aizu, Fukushima, a town with beautiful, traditional Japanese scenery, by watching this video. 【Official Website】Aizu Shimogo Town, Fukushima Prefecture Town Hall Website https://www.town.shimogo.fukushima.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Shimogo Town https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g1120990-Activities-Shimogo_machi_Minamiaizu_gun_Fukushima_Prefecture_Tohoku.html

The Nihondaira Zoo Located in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka! This video, titled "[Nihondaira Zoo] Grand Opening：Promotional Video" ([日本平動物園]グランドオープン：プロモーションビデオ), was released by "Nihondaira Zoo." The Nihondaira Zoo opened in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture around 1965. In the renovation project completed in 2013, "Wild Animal House 299," "Flying Megadome," the petting zoo, and other fun facilities were developed, and the zoo opened with the theme of "a zoo of surprise, excitement, and dreams" where visitors could learn about the relationship between animals and people through behavioral exhibits and interaction with animals. The new logo of Nihondaira Zoo is based on the characteristic shape of the zoo. In this article we'll introduce the new Nihondaira zoo promotional video in beautiful 4K resolution. The History of the Nihondaira Zoo Photo：Asian Elephants at Nihondaira Zoo The Nihondaira Zoo started as a project to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Shizuoka City’s municipal administration in 1965 and the current model of the zoo began in 1969. In 2007, a redevelopment project for the entire zoo was started and in the spring of 2013 the new Nihondaira Zoo had its grand opening. In recent years, many zoos have been focusing on behavioral exhibits. This is to minimize the stress on animals as much as possible by creating enclosures that match the ecology and living habitats of the animals. At Nihondaira Zoo, there are also events such as the "Night Zoo" to exhibit the behavior of nocturnal animals. In the video, you'll see facilities where you can view the ecology of red pandas from 0:20, tigers from 0:33, polar bears from 0:38, as well as elephants and various other animals from 0:55. The former Emberson House, which is adjacent to the Nihondaira Zoo, has also been designated a Tangible Cultural Property of Shizuoka City. The Role of Zoos in Japan Photo：Giant Anteater Most people probably have the perception that a zoo is an amusement park. However, the real role of the zoo is for researchers around the world to share information, study animal behavior, and spread and share information about animals to avoid extinction. They are research institutes that provide education by allowing children to interact with animals to learn the importance of life. As a matter of fact, many wild animals are on the verge of extinction due to the recent extreme weather conditions and overfishing happening around the globe. Public zoos and aquariums around the world are collaborating to launch species conservation projects and collaborating with universities to conduct animal research day in and day out, such as sex identification via DNA and breeding cycles through hormone analysis. The Nihondaira Zoo is also in charge of registering the pedigree of domestic animals living in Japan. In the species conservation project, has the best breeding record in Japan, especially for giant anteaters. The breeding journal of the giant anteater has received attention from other zoos as the longest dissertation in Japan.br> The park, which covers an area of 13 hectares, also has a treatment facility where injured and sick wild birds and animals are housed until they can finally be released back into the wild. In this way, they also provide physical therapy services for animals. The Facilities of Nihondaira Zoo Photo：Red Panda The zoo is of course a fun and valuable place to interact with rare animals. Let's take a look at the renovated facilities of the Nihondaira Zoo. First off, you can meet fierce beasts such as the lion at "Wild Animal House 299," and see rare birds at "Flying Megadome." You can also see the popular "Futa-kun" who is kept at the "Red Panda House," as well as pet rabbits and capybaras at the petting zoo. The "Orangutan House" is a place where you can meet cute orangutans with their gentle gestures, which can be seen from 1:13 in the video. Besides that, there are specialized exhibition corners, such as the "Herbivore Huts," exhibits for nocturnal and tropical birds, "The Castle of the Mysterious Forest," the "Reptile House," and the "Penguin House," as well as the general exhibition corner where you can meet giraffes, elephants, and gorillas. In addition, there is an amusement park with a "roller slider," and a restaurant where you can buy souvenirs and enjoy lunch. It's crowded with parents and children every day! Summary the Nihondaira Zoo Located in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Source :YouTube screenshot If you're headed to Shizuoka, be sure to stop by the Nihondaira Zoo where you can enjoy the behavioral exhibits of various animals! You might be able to discover an unexpected side of the animals that you didn't know existed. ◆Nihondaira Zoo｜Facility Overview◆ 【Address】1767-6 Ikeda, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture 【Access】A 10 minute bus ride from JR East Shizuoka Station, then a 5 minute walk after getting off at the zoo entrance (動物園入口, Doubutsu-en Iriguchi) 【Hours】9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Entrance open until 16:00) 【Admission Fee】General Admission (High school+): ¥620, Elementary｜Jr. High School students: ¥150 【Closures】Every Monday (or the following day if it is a national holiday or observed holiday), from the end of the year to New Year's Day 【Parking】4 parking lots available 【Telephone】054-262-3251 【Official Website】Shizuoka Municipal Nihondaira Zoo｜A behavioral exhibition that can be observed from various angles up close and also a sacred place for red pandas https://www.nhdzoo.jp/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Nihondaira Zoo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298124-d1403957-Reviews-Nihondaira_Zoo-Shizuoka_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

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

The Tokyo Marathon and Japan's Men's Olympic Team! This time we'll look at the video, "[Fuji T.V. Official] Tokyo Marathon 2020 Live From 9:00 A.M. on Sunday, March 1, 2020!!" (【フジテレビ公式】東京マラソン2020＜コース紹介＞2020年3月1日(日)午前9時00分から生中継!!), which introduces the course of the Tokyo Marathon held in 2020. The Tokyo Marathon is a competition first held in 2007. In 2013, it was designated as a World Marathon Majors competition. It is one of the 6 major marathons in the world, along with Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York. Photo：Marathon The Tokyo Marathon is more than just an invitational sports event for invited runners and the general public; it is also an important event that serves as a qualifying event for major international sporting events, such as the Olympics and the World Athletics Championships. In Japan, the Fukuoka International Marathon and the Lake Biwa Mainichi Marathon also serve as selection events to select athletes that will compete in international competitions. However, in 2020, having been designated as a World Athletics Platinum Label Road Race, it became Asia’s highest level marathon event, and in 2019, 38,000 runners participated in the event. The Tokyo Marathon was awarded Gold Label certification by the IAAF's rating system in 2010, making it one of the largest civic engagement races, on par with New York City. The 2020 men's marathon was touted as a one-on-one race between Suguru Osako and Yuta Shitara. However, in the end, Suguru Osako finished 4th, making him the highest placing Japanese runner and confirming his participation in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. The Tokyo Marathon Course Source :YouTube screenshot The course of the Tokyo Marathon has been drastically changed since its predecessor, the Tokyo International Marathon. The main feature of the course is that it is a flat, high-speed course with few ups and downs, with runners running on public roads in the center of the city. This video gives an overview of the course and we'll go over it below. ・[Video 0:23]　A five meter stretch starting from the front of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku with an elevation difference of 35 meters. ・[Video 0:33]　A section along Sotobori-dori and Chuo-dori to reach the 10km point in Nihonbashi. ・[Video 0:40]　Running through Edo-dori, runners will pass the 15km mark of Asakusa/Kaminarimon ・[Video 0:48]　The 20 km mark of Monnakacho- the first turnaround point. ・[Video 0:59]　The decisive moment is the 30 km mark in Ginza. At this point, the pacemaker will drop out of the race and the wheeling and the tactics begin. ・[Video 1:10]　The 35 km mark at Takanawa is the last turnaround point, and the strongest runners will use their last bits of energy for bursts of speed. Every year, it's an incredibly close competition. ・[Video 1:21]　The finish line of the course is in front of Tokyo station. The front runner will break through the finish line tape while being greeted by a large crowd and volunteer staff. The Tokyo Marathon is popular among international runners because, with the exception of the starting point, it is a flat course that allows for record breaking, and also takes in the sights of Tokyo from start to finish. For this reason, the number of applicants has been increasing every year, and for the 13th marathon, the general runners’ odds of being selected to run in the race was less than a 1 in 12 chance thus making it very difficult to enter. There are three race categories: the Men's and Women's Marathon, the Wheelchair Marathon, and the Junior and Youth Marathon, with the wheelchair marathon starting five minutes before the other events. Summary of the Tokyo Marathon Course Photo：Marathon Due to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, the Tokyo Marathon Foundation considered cancelling the 2020 marathon, but decided to hold only it with only elite athletes being considered for selection, with participation by the general public cancelled. The 2020 Tokyo Marathon was controversial, because although an entry fee is paid prior to the race, the terms state that no refunds would be given in the event of cancellation. Because the Tokyo Marathon is a race with traffic restrictions on public roads, there are fears that the date of the race could affect the capital's logistics infrastructure. However, because it is a top-level marathon race even by world standards, it has a positive economic effect, and the event continues to grow yearly. We're looking forward to Tokyo Marathons of the future! 【Official Website】Home Page｜Tokyo Marathon 2020 https://www.marathon.tokyo/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Tokyo Marathon https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g14133673-d8820386-r441644983-Tokyo_Marathon-Nishishinjuku_Shinjuku_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html