Official Author

岩本 晃弘 （aki）

Legrand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano, Japan - Video Introduction This video created by Le Grand Karuizawa introduces Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort, and is titled "Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel and Resort, Promotional Video"（ルグラン軽井沢　ホテル＆リゾート　プロモーションムービー). Karuizawa-Cho, in Nagano prefecture, is one of the luxury mountain resorts in Japan, and located at an altitude of 1000 meters above sea level. We are going to introduce “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort,” where you can experience the highest-quality customer service, located at the foot of Mount Asama in Nagano in the Koshinetsu region which is famous for its Onsen (hot springs). In this video, you will see the wedding hall, onsen, and rooms that will make your wedding day unforgettable. Enjoy the video of the place that will be the grounds for the happiest day of your life. What is “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” Source :YouTube screenshot “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” is a luxury resort hotel located at the foot of Mount Asama (浅間山,Asama san) in Karuizawa-Cho, Nagano in Shinshu in Japan. Access is 15 minutes from Karuizawa JR station by car. They also provide a shuttle bus service between the station and the hotel. The affiliated hotel "Le Grand Kyu Karuizawa hotel" is located nearby. “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” Wedding Plans Source :YouTube screenshot The video mainly introduces wedding plans. A wedding is supposed to be the most special day of your life. In this video, the introduction of their wedding plan starts around 2:43. “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” has a large premises for a wedding venue. With the chapel, the beautiful garden and terrace tables, they provide the most wonderful experience to everyone at the wedding ceremony. A lot of people may feel Karuizawa is a place for special occasions because it is known as a vacation region. This hotel has highly-rated reviews on its wedding plans compared to other hotels in the region, and a lot of its customers have had a great start to the next chapter in their life here. They regularly hold a bridal fair or event in Ginza Salon in Tokyo so that people can discuss or consult about the wedding plans without actually going to the site. It is also a part of the reason that it has such a good reputation. “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort”: Rooms and the Extensive Onsen Area Source :YouTube screenshot “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” has three types of rooms. One in the main building furnished with European Antiques, one in the Villa Suite, and one in the highest-grade luxury "Yamanoue Suite" so customers can choose the room they would like to stay in. They also have multiple bathing facilities for customers to choose from depending on their mood that day. There's the large public bath "Komorebi" which is filled with natural Onsen water, a private bath, a Tembo-buro (a bath with a nice outside view), and Happu Onsen. Because Nagano prefecture is featured for its many onsen, you can enjoy a variety of luxurious onsen here. Happu Onsen is Hydrogen Carbonate Spring which is known as one of three "Hot Springs of Beauty"(the top three springs contain chemicals that benefit health and beauty) in Japan. Happu Onsen has positive effects on wounds and skin conditions. A day trip is also possible. Around 1:37 in the video, you can see the hotel rooms and around 1:02 the onsen are shown. Facilities of “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” Source :YouTube screenshot On the hotel's large premises, there are swimming pools, gardens, a spa, and a gym as well. Spend your quality time however you would like. In the mountain area, there is a "Yamanoue sweet terrace/activity deck" located 1000 meters above sea level. In the main building, there is a classical style main entrance, a garden decorated with seasonal flowers, a boutique for gifts and "SPA LA VILLA" where you can enjoy a facial massage in a relaxing room. They also have rooms called "Prive.Lac," "Bell Foret," and "En Chante" for meeting and banquet purposes. “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” Restaurants and Bars Their French restaurant "Vaas" provides French gourmet with seasonal ingredients produced by Japan. There is also a Grilled restaurant called "Grill Mille "serving Grilled meals with ingredients produced by the Shinshu region, "Karuizawa French," and "ASAMA Café." Enjoy drinking at the bar "Rouge" and the "Poolside Bar" at night. A variety of different cuisines are also served for breakfast. Sightseeing Around “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” Photo：Shiraito Falls There are many tourist spots in Karuizawa, in Nagano prefecture where “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” is located at. "Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza (軽井沢 プリンス ショッピングプラザ, Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza)" the mall with 240 stores, "Uchimura Kanzo Memorial Stone Church (石の教会 内村鑑三記念堂, Ishinokyoukai Uchimura Kanzo Kinendo)" stone & glass church, "Shiraito Falls (白糸の滝, Shiraito no Taki)" the waterfalls designated as a Japanese natural monument as well as a national scenic spot, "Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa (軽井沢千住博美術館, Karuizawa Senju Hiroshi Bijutsukan)" which has a great ambiance, "Kumoba Pond (雲場池, Kumoba Ike)" also known as "Swan Lake (スワンレイク)", "Karuizawa Hoshino Area (軽井沢星野エリア, Karuizawa Hoshino Area)" which great writers and artists gathered and created their community in Taisho era, "Karuizawa Taliesin (軽井沢タリアセン, Karuizawa Tariasen)" a resort facility where there are many shops and leisure venues, "Old Usui Outlooks (旧碓氷峠見晴台, KyuUsuitouge Miharashidai)" near the top of the Usui, outlook park which is located at an altitude of 1200m, "Karuizawa Lake Garden (軽井沢レイクガーデン, Karuizawa Lake garden)" where there are 8 garden areas and one great lake in the garden, and "Old Karuizawa Ginza Street (旧軽井沢銀座道,Kyu Karuizawa Ginzado) " where several hundreds of tourists visit every year. If you're making a trip to “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” consider checking out some of these spots as well. Recap of “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” As shown in the video, “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” provides the best customer service experience (Omotenashi in Japanese) to its customers and that is one of the reasons it is so popular. We weren't able to show how the staff provides customer service and room service in this video but we're sure that you'll be satisfied with them as well. For more details about the hotel's facilities, room amenities and tourist spots nearby, be sure to visit their website. Accommodation fees differ by season, room, and plan. Please check the rates on their website or other hotel booking websites when you make a reservation. ◆About “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort”◆ 【Address】864-4 Hotchi, Karuizawa, Kitasaku, Nagano 389-0113 【Access】About 15 minutes from Karuizawa JR station by car 【Parking】Yes. Limited to 45 spots 【Phone】0267-48-0099 【Official Website】Karuizawa hotel / Le Grand Kyu Karuizawa https://www.legrand-karuizawa.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】"Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort" https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g325581-d10384974-Reviews-Le_Grand_Kyukaruizawa-Karuizawa_machi_Kitasaku_gun_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.htmlshinetsu_Chubu.html

Windsurfing in Okinawa - Aerial Footage This video, titled "Okinawa｜Windsurfing｜Aerial Footage｜Drone｜Inspire 2｜X5S" (沖縄　ウィンドサーフィン　空撮　ドローン　inspire2　X5S), is a PR video for windsurfing in Okinawa, taken by Churaumi Aqua Lab. Okinawa is famous for its blue oceans and white, sandy beaches that allows tourists to enjoy beautiful natural scenery and marine sports. Churaumi Aqua Lab releases many aerial videos taken by drone that show surfing, windsurfing, SUP, and sunsets This video, featuring windsurfing at a beach in Okinawa, was captured from high in the skies by a drone. You'll definitely feel like hitting the beaches after watching this video! Enjoy Wind Surfing off the Beaches on Okinawa Photo：Wind surfing Wind surfing is an ocean sport where a sail is connected to a surf board and the surfer glides across the surface of the water using the lift generated by the wind. Windsurfing is also an official Olympic event. In this video, you can see footage of a windsurfer gliding across crystal clear waters with sandy beaches in the backdrop. A windsurfing world cup was held in Japan as well. You can see the awesome performances of professional windsurfers live in these type of competitions. There are various places in Okinawa where beginners can learn to windsurf as well. All equipment necessary for windsurfing, such as wet suits and life jackets are available for rent. Tourists can enjoy windsurfing all season without having any equipment. There are also trial lessons hosted by windsurfing shops where beginners can take detailed instruction. Try your hand at windsurfing across the beautiful seas of Okinawa! Marine Activities in Okinawa! Photo：Scuba diving In addition to windsurfing, there are many other marine activities available in Okinawa. For example, you can try SUP, banana boats, rocket boats, flyboats, jet skiing, wakeboarding, and bodyboarding, and there's also yachts and canoes, as well as scuba diving! If you're traveling with kids you can try snorkeling as well. Or, if you're not interested in aquatic activities, consider participating in a whale watching tour. On the main island of Okinawa, some famous sightseeing spots include Onna village (恩納村, Onnason), Nago city (名護市, Nago-shi), and Senaga-island (瀬長島, Senaga-jima). We hope you can enjoy some marine activities in the seas of Okinawa! Off the Mainland of Okinawa Photo：Miyakojima coast Okinawa is warm all year round. There are other locations besides the main island that tourists can enjoy as well. If you go to a remote island, you can relax and have a good time. For example, Kumejima (久米島, Kume Island) is about a 3-hour ferry ride from the main island. It's very popular for its easy access to remote islands. Also there are direct flights from Tokyo to Miyakojima (宮古島, Miyako island) and Ishigakijima (石垣島, Ishigaki island), so many tourists come for sightseeing. Summary of Windsurfing in Okinawa Watch this video to discover the beauty of Okinawa's waters and the wonders of windsurfing. The aerial footage will feel like you're window surfing across the waves! Churaumi AquaLab also has other videos on the beautiful waters of Okinawa taken by drone as well. Be sure to check them out! If you're ever in Okinawa, consider trying windsurfing! 【Official Website】Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium - Handing the Churaumi in Okinawa down to the next generation. https://churaumi.okinawa/en/

Drone Footage of the Whirlpools of the Seto Inland Sea and the Onaruto Bridge! The video that we'll introduce today is called "[Aerial View] Seto Inland Sea Whirlpools｜Drone Footage of Onaruto Bridge [4K]｜Tokushima to Awaji Island, Hyogo" (【絶景空撮】瀬戸内海・渦潮 ドローン空撮 大鳴門橋【4K】（四国徳島〜兵庫淡路島）). The video was created by "winteroptix." It shows beautiful drone footage of the whirlpools of the Seto Inland Sea and the Onaruto Bridge. You can enjoy a beautiful view of the Seto Inland Sea, the Naruto whirlpools, and the magnificent scenery of the Onaruto Bridge, all in one video! The Onaruto Bridge and Whirlpools of the Seto Inland Sea Photo：Onaruto Bridge Onaruto Bridge (大鳴門橋,Onarutokyo) is a suspension bridge that connects Fukurahei, Minamiawaji City, Hyogo Prefecture and Tosadomariura, Naruto Town, Naruto City, Tokushima Prefecture. The bridge is 1,629 meters long and 25 meters wide, and its main tower is 144.3 meters tall. Honshu-Shikoku Bridge (本州四国連絡船橋, Honshushikokurenrakukyo), Onaruto Bridge, and Akashi Kaikyo Bridge (明石海峡大橋, Akashikaikyoohashi) are 3 of the most crucial traffic routes connecting Honshu (本州) and the Shikoku Region (四国地方,Shikokuchiho). Since the bridges span the sea, they are often closed to traffic due to wind speeds, so be careful when passing through. Onaruto Bridge is a motorway so you cannot cross it by foot, bicycle, or scooter. There used to be a ferry company called Naruto Ferry that ran between the Shikoku Region and Awaji Island (淡路島, Awajishima), but it is now out of business. There is a plan to add a railroad to Onaruto Bridge and enable the Shikoku Shinkansen to cross the Seto Inland Sea in the future, so you may one day be able to go to the Shikoku Region by bullet train! The Amazing Naruto Whirlpools Near Onaruto Bridge Photo：Naruto Strait The Naruto whirlpools are whirling tides of water that appear in the Naruto Strait (鳴門海峡, Narutokaikyo). You can observe them at around 0:07 in the video. Some of these whirlpools have a diameter of 20 meters, making them the largest whirlpools in the world. The Naruto whirlpools appear due to currents from the Seto Inland Sea and the Kii Channel (紀伊水道, Kiisuido) violently colliding with one another near Naruto. The area around Naruto has a wide tidal range, with the difference between the high tide and low tide going up 1.5 meters during the spring, and its current is said to be the fastest in Japan. The Naruto Strait is said to be one of the world’s three major currents, along with Italy's Strait of Messina and Canada’s Seymour Narrows. Famous Tourist Spots to View the Whirpools Photo：Naruto whirlpools There's a sidewalk called "Uzu no Michi (渦の道) on Onaruto Bridge, which hangs over the Seto Inland Sea. From here, you can look down at the Naruto whirlpools from the bridge. The area gets many tourists and is famous for being instagrammable! The entry fee is 510 yen for adults, 410 yen for junior high and high school students, and 260 yen for young children. There's also the Onaruto Bridge Museum Eddy (大鳴門橋架橋記念館エディ, Onarutokyo kakyo kinenkan eddy) nearby, so consider dropping by during your visit. The bridge is lit up at night, providing a a beautiful view that you won't be able to see during the day. If you want to observe the Naruto whirlpools up close, we highly recommend taking a cruise on the whirlpool sightseeing boats run by Uzushio-kisen. The cruise ships go near the whirlpools, so you can experience the thrilling natural phenomenon! If you're prone to seasickness, be sure to take some seasickness medicine beforehand! Roadside Station Uzushio (道の駅うずしお, Michinoekiuzushio) and Naruto Park (鳴門公園, Narutokoen) on Awaji Island are great places to stop and rest. Tokushima Prefecture is full of tourist attractions, such as the Awa Odori Festival (Awa Dance Festival​), Tokushima Ramen, and temples included in the "88 Shikoku Temples"! Summary of the Naruto Whirlpools of the Seto Inland Sea Source :YouTube screenshot Today, we introduced drone footage of the whirlpools of the Seto Inland Sea and Onaruto Bridge. If this article/video have you interested in the Naruto whirpools, be sure to visit Tokushima prefecture! 【Tripadvisor】Seto Inland Sea https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g298561-d554137-r138282192-Setonaikai-Hiroshima_Hiroshima_Prefecture_Chugoku.html 【Tripadvisor】Onaruto Bridge https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g678355-d1384640-Reviews-Onaruto_Bridge-Naruto_Tokushima_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

Introduction of video closely following a man who promotes "rockabilly culture" in Japan, including dancing in Yoyogi Park in Shibuya Ward, Tokyo. It is a documentary that follows a young man living in Tokyo, who loves Rockabilly culture. This video was created by NOWNESS. The young man in the video is Daigo Yamashita, known as JOHNNY. He uses pomade to help him rock his 50's hairstyle. This video focuses on Daigo’s daily life of dancing and singing as a musician. How deep is his passion for Rockabilly? Let's find out! What Is Rockabilly? The History and Origin of Rockabilly in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot Rockabilly started in the early 1950s, and it is a mix of country music, bluegrass and other kinds of music. Famous Rockabilly singers are Elvis Presley and Carl Perkins. The history of Rockabilly culture started around the late 1950s. However, around the late 60s, the "group sounds" boom arrived, and Rockabilly slowly started to fade out. Enjoy “Rockabilly culture” in the middle of Japan! A revival of this 50's style? Source :YouTube screenshot There are people who get together on weekends at Yoyogi park to enjoy Rockabilly culture. These people are called “Rockabilly Zoku (Tribe)”. Watching the video of elderly men dancing at Yoyogi park might tempt you to go join in on the fun. Take a look at the video from 3:14 to see Rockabilly Zoku’s activity at Yoyogi park. As Daigo Yamashita stated in the video at 3:33, people who enjoy Rockabilly culture are getting older. Sharing Rockabilly Culture With the Younger Generation Source :YouTube screenshot Daigo Yamashita, known as JOHNNY, works as a musician at night. He works as a musician about 20 times a month to spread the Rockabilly culture. Check the video to see a man and a woman dancing at a dance hall with the oldies music from the 50s. You can also see Daigo Yamashita as a musician from 4:55. Daigo’s goal is to spread the Rock n Roll and Rockabilly cultures to the younger generations. He was influenced by many Japanese rock singers when he was a child, and it seems like he is seeking to influence young people through his music the same way he was influenced as a child. Summary of Japan's Rockabilly Culture Source :YouTube screenshot This article talked about the video of Rockabilly culture in Japan. You can see Daigo Yamashita enjoying his daily life of following the old trend. The video of Daigo enjoying the old trend might make you feel like something is missing in your life. If this video has you interested in Rockabilly culture, be sure to find a local venue to enjoy some Rock n Roll music! There are some classic stores like “Jumpin’ Jack’s” in the video at 1:56, where you can purchase some fancy rockabilly style clothing. Who knows, Rockabilly culture might make a comeback and another rockabilly boom could occur in the future. 【Official Website】NOWNESS https://www.nowness.com/

戦国時代を体験できるイベント「東海合戦ワールド」紹介動画について こちらの動画は「愛知県観光コンベンション局」が公開した「Tokai-Kassen World | 東海合戦ワールド」です。 皆さんは日本への観光の際、武将の体験ができる場所を聞かれたことはありませんか？ 今回の動画は日本の戦国時代が体験できる東海合戦ワールドをご紹介します。 東海合戦ワールドへ行けば戦国時代の日本を肌で感じられること間違いなしです！ 戦国時代を体験できる東海合戦ワールドの魅力！ 東海合戦ワールドとは毎年11月ごろ名古屋市にある大高緑地（おおだかりょくち）で行われているイベントです。 現在はサムライニンジャフェスティバルと名前を変えてパワーアップして毎年開催中！ 東海合戦ワールドでは観光客も戦国時代を体感できる 東海合戦ワールド当日、会場にはホラガイの音が鳴り響きます。 ホラガイの音を合図に鎧をつけた多くの武者・侍の大武者行列が出現。 その光景はまさに戦国時代そのもの。 大武者行列の人をご覧になると日本の観光へ訪れた外国人の方の姿もちらほら。 子供も戦国時代を体験！東海合戦ワールド 東海合戦ワールドでは子供も楽しめます。 鎧を着ながら日本刀のレプリカでチャンバラごっこをする姿も。 戦国時代の子供達も同じような光景があったのでしょうか。 会場は広大な広さを持つ大高緑地。 親子で行っても人混みに巻き込まれることはありません。 親子で戦国時代を楽しめること間違いないでしょう。 東海合戦ワールドではご当地グルメで日本を楽しめる。 東海合戦ワールドのもう一つの魅力がご当地グルメ。 イベント会場では名古屋を中心としたご当地グルメを楽しむことができます。 美味しいご当地グルメは日本への観光客にも人気。 東海合戦ワールド会場で行う火縄銃に圧巻！ 東海合戦ワールド会場では火縄銃の実演も行っています。 この光景には多くの観光客がカメラを片手にその光景を写そうと必死。 ホラガイの合図に火縄銃を一斉に発射する光景は圧巻です。 東海合戦ワールド紹介まとめ 今回は東海合戦ワールドを紹介しました。 こちらのイベントは日本へ訪れた観光客も気軽に鎧を着て武者や武将になりきり、戦国時代を体感できます。 是非日本観光の際は東海合戦ワールドへ訪れてみてはどうですか？

大分県宇佐市の魅力紹介動画の見どころ この記事では「宇佐市インターネット作成局」が公開した動画「宇佐市２０１６観光プロモーション動画」を紹介します。 今回紹介するのは大分県宇佐市。九州の中でも、昔ながらの日本の街並みが残り、ゆったり日本を観光できると人気です。 九州の空の玄関口である福岡空港からも近く、訪日観光客にも観光ルートとして、訪れやすいエリアです。 では、大分県宇佐市の素晴らしさを動画と共にご覧ください！ 大分県宇佐市でゆったり日本の自然を満喫！ 動画の冒頭でダイナミックに「USA」と書道で書く彼女たち。 大分県宇佐市には日本の自然を満喫できる観光スポットがたくさんあります。 日豊本線宇佐駅周辺の観光スポットから一緒に見ていきましょう。 まず、最初に訪れた観光スポットは千財農園フジ園とバラ園。 ここはインスタ映えスポットです。 宇佐神宮は大分県でも有名な神宮。 参道を歩くだけで日本らしさを感じることができるでしょう。 日本のグルメを大分県宇佐でいただく！ 大分県宇佐市に訪れたら、ご当地グルメを味わいたいですね。 まず訪れたのは長洲港。 ここでは浜の市が楽しめます。 宇佐から揚げを楽しみ、海を見ながら浜焼きをするのも良いでしょう。 また、すっぽん料理やどぜう料理も宇佐市を代表する名物。 ブドウ狩りやワイン・麦焼酎も宇佐市の観光には欠かせないものです。 大分県宇佐市の大自然を感じるパワースポットへ！ 海の次は山へ訪れてみませんか。 「宇佐のマチュピチュ」と言われる西椎屋の景（にししいやのけい）は絶景です。 院内石橋（いんないいしばし）は景勝地としても有名。 東椎屋の滝（ひがししいやのたき）や岳切渓谷（たっきりけいこく）ではマイナスイオンいっぱい。 安心院盆地（あじむぼんち）は雄大な山々に田んぼと日本らしい風景です。 大分県宇佐市の日本家屋にはカラフルな鏝絵（こてえ）があり、散策も楽しめます。 お子様と一緒の観光では九州自然公園アフリカンサファリへ行ってみるのもいいでしょう。 はちまんの郷、双葉の里もおすすめ。 宿泊はホテルではなく農村民宿で日本文化を体験することもできます。 宇佐市には日本を代表する祭りがいっぱい 日本へ観光に来たら祭りにも参加したいと思いませんか。 大分県宇佐市は祭り・イベントが豊富です。 市民にも人気なのが七夕夏祭り。 漁港ではみなと祭りも行われ、花火大会も。 夏越祭りでは日本の伝統的な祭りを体感できます。 大分県宇佐市の魅力紹介まとめ 今回は動画で大分県宇佐市の素晴らしい観光名所を紹介しました。 こちらの記事で紹介しきれなかった素晴らしい情報や、大分県宇佐市の魅力はまだまだたくさん動画で紹介されています。 訪日外国人にもおすすめの大分県宇佐市へ遊びに来てみませんか？

Duty-Free Shops in Narita Airport! This video, created by “Traveler’s Factory（成田空港免税店）”, introduces duty-free (tax-free) shops in Narita Airport. Narita International Airport represents international airports in Japan, and is located in Narita, Chiba prefecture. Narita airport consists of three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3, and has wide variety of stores. If you are planning to travel abroad or use Narita Airport for sightseeing around Japan, we recommend taking a look at the video to get a feel for the duty-free shops there. What is a “Duty-Free” Shop? Some Benefits of Duty-Free Stores. Photo：Duty-Free Shop Duty-free shops, which are shown in the video, are stores where people can purchase items at a price exempted from customs or sales tax in order to encourage consumption outside of Japan. Therefore, we mostly see these kinds of stores at airports or in busy shopping districts. One of the best benefits of duty-free shops is that we can get items at a cheaper price without sales tax. For example, you can buy alcohol and tobacco at prices exempt from alcohol and tobacco taxes, as well as sales tax. This means you can get these items for a cheaper price than at ordinary retail stores in Japan. Why are Duty-Free Shops Tax Exempt? Photo：Duty-Free Shop All the items are at duty-free shops are tax exempt because the Japanese sales tax system cannot be applied at international airports; International airports do not belong to any country. In addition, these items are regarded as “exported goods” to be used outside of Japan. Japanese people can also enjoy shopping at duty-free shops in Japan; If they are at the airport for international departures, they can purchase items after departure procedures. They are also asked for their passports when making a purchase. If you see stores with a sign saying “Duty-Free Shop” or “Tax Free Shop,” you can buy tax-exempt items. What Kind of Duty-Free Shops are there in Narita Airport? Source :YouTube screenshot In Narita Airport, most people go to either Terminal 1 where ANA is in service, or Terminal 2 where JAL is in service. In both terminals, there are some duty-free shops selling brand-name products such as Tiffany & Co., Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel, where you can buy designer wallets, bags, watches, and so on. From 0:37 in the video, you can see signs of some popular shops such as: “Dior,” “GUCCI,” “GIORGIO ARMANI,” “HERMES,” and “CHANEL.” You can also see the cameraman purchasing a Chanel perfume at 2:17. At Narita Airport's duty-free shops you can shorten your pre-departure shopping by using the “pre-order” or “mail order” services. You can pre-order the items you want before even going to the airport! Each shop has different opening hours, but most shops open at 7 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. You might also see some duty-free shops when returning to Japan from foreign countries. Some of these shops sell foreign spirits and perfumes, and you can buy brand-name products at tax-exempted prices. It's much more affordable to buy expensive products you can rarely get, at these stores. At duty-free shops, a wide variety of items such as food, cameras, electronics, watches, and even traditional Japaneses crafts are popular among foreign visitors, . Precautions when Using Duty-Free Shops Photo：Tourist However, there are some precautions you need to bear in mind when using duty-free shops. First, you are not allowed to open or use tax-free items before leaving Japan; These are sold to be consumed outside of the country. Moreover, because these tax-free items are treated as “exported goods,” it is prohibited to use them within Japan. If you are foreign visitors from outside of Japan, you can also use the “Okinawa Regional Duty-Free Shop System” to buy some items at duty-free shops in cities like Akihabara. In this case, it’s also prohibited to use your tax-free items before leaving Japan. In extreme cases it’s possible that you may be asked to pay taxes when you leave the country. If you follow the guidelines listed above though, you'll have nothing to worry about! In addition, if you plan on using a flight connection overseas, you have to be careful when purchasing tax-free alcohol and tobacco; the amount of alcohol and tobacco you can bring into each country is different. Moreover, in some countries, the items you bought at duty-free shops are treated as imported items. In this case, it’s possible that you will be asked to pay tariffs. That being said, before buying tax-free items, we recommend checking the laws in the country you are going to. Overview of Duty-Free Shops in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot Today we introduced a video on duty-free shops at Narita Airport and tax exemption there. Unfortunately, some Japanese people probably think that they cannot buy items at these kind of stores before departures. If you have a chance to visit international airports in Japan, like Narita Airport in this video and Kansai Airport in Osaka, please try visiting the duty-free shops they have! 【Official Website】 Narita International Airport Official Website https://www.narita-airport.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】 Narita International Airport (NRT) https://www.tripadvisor.com/Airport-g298161-qNRT-Narita_Chiba_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Japanese Elementary School Students Cleaning Did you enjoy cleaning when you were a kid? Maybe not, but there are actually quite a few people in Japan who remember cleaning time in elementary school quite fondly. This video, “Japanese Students Clean Classrooms To Learn Life Skills” was created by “AJ+”. As you can see in the video, it is a natural thing for elementary school students in Japan to clean their classrooms themselves! This is a custom that people overseas are surprised at. The reason being that, in many cases, schools overseas hire janitors for cleaning. Let’s take a look at the introductory video of cleaning time for elementary school students. A nostalgic scene for Japanese people, and a maybe something new for those overseas. At Elementary Schools in Japan, It's Normal for Students to Clean Source :YouTube screenshot The joy of schools in Japan, and probably most schools around the world, is lunch time! You can see this at 0:29 in the video! When students in Japan finish eating, however, they clean up the used dishes by themselves after eating delicious meals. You can see cleaning time at 0:47, after lunch has ended. In Japan, students clean starting from elementary school. They clean classrooms and hallways all by themselves. At schools overseas, usually janitors do the cleaning, but in Japan, as seen in the video, it's a a part of everyday life for students to clean their schools by themselves. Children divide up their cleaning activities, diligently wiping down windows, mopping floors, sweeping, and getting rid of garbage. In Japan, cleaning is essentially another part of studying, and this is happens everyday. Japan's Cleaning Culture Source :YouTube screenshot At schools in Japan, students learn things that can be put to practical use. On such thing is cleaning. Students learn how to use cleaning utensils at school so they can put it into practice at home and in the future. Schools are not just a place to study, but also a place where students can bond and learn how to work as a team. Elementary school students in Japan learn these things from their everyday cleaning routine as well. Overseas Reactions Source :YouTube screenshot When foreigners watch this video, their reactions are noticeably different than those of the Japanese, to whom this is commonplace. In overseas countries, most people think “cleaning = labor,” and therefore think that cleaning activities are jobs for workers. There are also many people who understand the idea behind it, and the reason for keeping things clean. What Do the Teachers Think? Source :YouTube screenshot In the video, you can also see an interview of an elementary school teacher at 0:59. “Cleaning is something you have to be able to do for yourself later in life, so it's a custom that's likely to continue into the future,” she says. Summary of Cleaning at Japan's Elementary Schools Today we introduced a video about Japan’s everyday education. Many people might be surprised by this. However, for the Japanese, this is just a part of everyday life. So what do you think? Is it a good custom? And before answering, is your room clean?

丹精込めて伝統文化・工芸品の刀を作る刀鍛冶とは こちらの動画は「明日への扉 by アットホーム」が公開した「#001 刀鍛冶 玉木 道明　|　明日への扉 by アットホーム」です。 「子供の時、おもちゃの刀を使って遊んでいたのがきっかけだった」 多くの日本人男子は、子供の時そのようにチャンバラをしてきたのではないでしょうか? 日本の伝統文化を継承するために毎日丹念している方の話しは、多くの人が面白い・興味深いと感じ、とても刺激的に感じることが多いと思います。 こちらの動画では工房で日本伝統の刀匠という刀鍛冶になるべく目指す若者を紹介。 この記事では、動画に沿って刀鍛冶の魅力や、刀の世界で毎日を過ごす玉木道明さんにについて紹介します。 日本の工芸品、伝統文化を伝える職業の刀鍛冶 刀鍛冶とは、刀を作る職人です。 高温に熱した鉄を何回も金槌で叩いて形を作っていきます。 刀の歴史・起源は日本書紀に奈良時代より作られていた記録も残っています。 現在では刀鍛冶は日本の伝統文化として珍しい職業となっています。 日本の伝統文化・工芸を継承する刀鍛冶の玉木道明について 若き刀職人の玉木道明氏は、日本の伝統文化を守るべく刀鍛冶になるため、広島県庄原市にある久保善博氏が行っている善博日本刀鍛錬道場で修行を行っています。 刀の職人は鍛人という言い方がありますが、それ以外にも鍛師・刀師・鍛刀師という呼び名があります。 また、刀派・流派は時代によって異なるのが特徴です。 刀鍛冶になるには修行が必要で、今日、明日刀を作りたいと言って作れることはできない匠の技です。 伝統文化・工芸品の刀を作るまでの工程 刀を作る工程として、まずは玉鋼を作ります。 火床で加熱をして鞴で火を操ることが大事だと言われています。 水へし・先手を行い火造り、研ぎ、焼き入れに刃紋を行います。 また、刀を作るためには刀工集団という専門的な技術を持った人が集まって作られます。 鉱物を山から掘る鉱山師から始まり、鉄穴師、タタラ師、山子、彫師、鞘師、研師といった多くの技法が相まって刀は作られているのです。 日本の伝統文化・工芸を継承すべく独立する玉木道明氏 今回の動画では玉木道明氏が独立するために刀剣の里で初打ち式へ参加する様子も収められています。 こちらは動画の16:12過ぎより紹介されています。 独立後は伝統文化として、刀は工芸品として価値が高い職人となることでしょう。 日本の伝統文化・工芸を伝える刀鍛冶、玉木道明の紹介まとめ 刀鍛冶を目指す玉木道明さんのドキュメンタリー動画では匠の技を感じられたのではないでしょうか。 この記事を読んで、刀鍛冶や日本の伝統文化・工芸などや玉木道明さんに興味をもった方は、日本刀に触れる観光に出かけてみてはいかがですか。

日本の伝統文化、京都で目にする舞妓とは？ こちらの動画は「明日への扉 by アットホーム」が公開した「#002 舞妓 美恵雛（みえひな） |　明日への扉 by アットホーム」です。 今回は日本の古都京都で芸妓になることを夢見る一人の舞妓に密着した動画を紹介。 こちら記事では、動画に沿って、舞妓という職業、下積み生活や仕事内容・伝統文化に生きる舞妓さんを紹介します。 京都のお座敷文化・伝統文化を守る舞妓の日常 舞妓とは、芸妓になるために必要な芸能を仕込む見習い・下積み期間のことです。 しかし、下積みだからと言って簡単なものではなく、芸妓と同じように座敷に出てお客様の楽しいひと時を共にしたり、三味線や芝居・舞踊を舞うことが必要になってきます。 舞妓の日中は芸の稽古・から始まりました。礼儀作法やしつけ・しきたりから始まり、衣装・着物の着付け・化粧・髪型・履物など些細な面まで教え込まれます。 また、三味線や踊りは一つ一つの些細な動きまで学ばなくてはいけません。 以前は舞妓になるために10歳くらいから花街で修行に入るため生活していましたが、今では中学校を卒業してから舞妓になる修行をする人が一般的です。 舞妓の日常は午前中は稽古。 午後からはお座敷の準備で白塗りをして舞妓へと。 日々、芸の道へ進み伝統文化を守る世界の厳しさを知れるのではないでしょうか。 日本の伝統文化を継承する京都　祇園の魅力とは 京都には宮川町歌舞練場で毎年行われる京おどりがあります。 この京おどりは若柳流の舞であり、京都の中でも伝統文化を伝えるに相応しい、選ばれた舞妓・芸妓で構成されています。 今回、美恵雛が選ばれ、立派に舞ったのです。 舞妓の美恵雛が伝統文化と向き合い一人前として芸妓になる時 舞妓が芸妓になる襟替えの時は生涯の中で一番の儀式です。 今まで幾度となく舞妓の厳しさを感じ京都の祇園から去ろうとも思った美恵雛。 芸妓になるまでに数多くの涙をしたこともあったでしょう。 世界を魅了する伝統文化舞妓紹介のまとめ 今回は日本の伝統文化を守るひとりの舞妓に密着した動画紹介しました。 昔までは一見様お断りのお店も多かったですが、最近では宴席やお茶席を体験や楽しめる料金プランも登場しています。 祇園東や先斗町・宮川町のお茶屋さんでお座敷遊びを楽しめるでしょう。 皆さんもこの記事で舞妓について興味が持たれましたら京都祇園に足を運んでみてはいかがですか。