Official Author

もりありさ（Arisa Mori）

Video introduction of "Sengokuhara Susuki Meadow" in Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture This video, titled "Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Field - Kanagawa - 4K Ultra HD" (Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Field - Kanagawa - 仙石原すすき草原 - 4K Ultra HD), was uploaded by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." Enjoy the beautiful 4K visuals and the sound of pampas grass swaying in the wind as if you were standing in the pampas grass field of Sengokuhara. Sengokuhara – A Famous Place for Viewing Pampas Grass in Hakone, Kanagawa Photo：The pampas grass field of Sengokuhara, Hakone The pampas grass field of Sengokuhara is located on Mt. Hakone in Kanagawa Prefecture, in Japan's Kanto region. It is one of the "Top 50 Scenic Spots in Kanagawa" and "Top 100 Places to View Flowers in Kanagawa," and is well known for its pampas grass. At the foot of Mt. Daigatake, which was formed by the eruption of Mt. Hakone, lies a field of pampas grass, and in autumn, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of golden plumes rippling in the wind. The fantastic scenery of the Sengokuhara pampas grass field has attracted a lot of attention and draws a large number of tourists every year. The Field of Pampas Grass in Hakone – When to See the Breathtaking Autumnal Scenery Photo：The walking path through the pampas grass field of Sengokuhara, Hakone The golden pampas grass in the field in Sengokuhara is at its best from late September to early November. The lush green tips of pampas grass turn a silvery-white, and as autumn deepens, the tips open up and turn a pale golden color. The beautiful golden color of the pampas grass field, which can only be seen during autumn in Japan, is a distinctive sight of autumn in Hakone. The main walking route for the pampas grass field is to go straight along the path and back, which takes about 30 minutes round-trip. The path through the grassy field is great for taking photos as well. [Video] 0:05 - Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Field Walking Path At the midpoint of the path, visitors can enjoy a lovely collaboration of mountains and the soft tips of the pampas grass. The view from the small hill in the middle of the path is another nice spot, perfect for taking pictures. The best times to visit are in the morning and at dusk, when there are few people around. The photogenic golden pampas grass glistening in the sunlight and the setting sun are guaranteed to be make for awesome photos for Instagrammers and photographers alike. The Pampas Grass Field of Sengokuhara During Summer Sengokuhara's pampas grass field is of course famous for its pampas grass in autumn, but other seasons also have their own unique charms. In early summer, around June, visitors can enjoy the lush green landscape of the meadow that has grown back after the annual burn in the spring. The sight of the newly sprouted green pampas grass swaying in the wind is a different aesthetic than that of autumn. The green pampas grass and blue skies are a perfect contrast, and photographers/Instagrammers can take some delightful photos during this time as well. Spring at Sengokuhara – A Fiery Event on the Pampas Grass Field In the pampas grass field of Sengokuhara, an event called Yamayaki is held from mid to late March every year. Yamayaki, meaning "Mountain burning," is an annual event to maintain the pampas grass field. By burning the dead grass, it prevents the growth of weeds in the field and helps to return the meadow to its youthful appearance. The event is held in the mild spring weather, and spectator seating is available as well. The crackling fire and the intense heat are definitely worth a trip to Hakone. How to Get to Sengokuhara's Pampas Grass Field + Parking & Lunch Photo：Hakone-Yumoto Station To get to Sengokuhara's pampas grass field, take the Hakone Tozan Bus bound for Togendai from Hakone-Yumoto Station and get off at Sengokogen (~30 mins). If going by car, free parking and paid parking are available in the immediate vicinity of the pampas grass field. A temporary free parking lot is also available from September 1 to November 30 every year during the pampas grass' peak viewing period. For lunch, we recommend trying the soba restaurant Hoshinoan (そば処 穂し乃庵, Soba-dokoro Hoshinoan) by the Sengokuhara pampas grass field. In the midst of the refreshing pampas grass field, you can enjoy the seasonal flavors and unique dishes made from the best ingredients while gazing out at the field of pampas grass. Summary of Sengokuhara's Pampas Grass Field The area around the Sengokuhara pampas grass field is home to numerous tourist attractions, including art museums, and its hot springs, characterized by their cloudy white water, are also popular. In particular, the hot springs of the Hakone Ichinoyu Group, which currently has 10 facilities in Hakone, are well known as affordable accommodations in Hakone, and feature dreamy open-air guest rooms as well. Let the warmth of the hot springs wash away your fatigue. Sengokuhara's pampas grass field is easily accessible from central Tokyo, as it's located just a short 2-hour and 15-minute bus ride from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo via the Odakyu Hakone Express Bus. If taking this route, be sure to get off at the Sengokukogen bus stop. Enjoy a visit to see the spectacular golden landscapes of autumn in Hakone! 【TripAdvisor】Sengokuhara https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298171-d1514732-Reviews-Sengokuhara-Hakone_machi_Ashigarashimo_gun_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Tokyo Tower's 333 Koinobori: Video Introduction This video, titled "Tokyo Tower's 333 Carp Streamers" (東京タワー 333匹のこいのぼり), was uploaded by "Tokyo Tower Official Channel." Koinobori, or carp streamers, are a springtime tradition in Japan. They are displayed all over the country to wish for the healthy growth of children, just like the strong and sturdy carp of legend. Carp streamers (鯉のぼり, koinobori) used to be hung outside of houses with children, but in recent years, due to changes in housing conditions, fewer and fewer people decorate their homes with them. Tokyo Tower, located in Minato, Tokyo in Japan's Kanto region, also holds an annual spring event called "333 Carp Streamers" to celebrate Children's Day. In honor of Tokyo Tower's 333-meter height, 333 colorful carp streamers and a giant 6-meter-long "Sanmanobori" (Pacific Saury streamer) are flown in front of the main entrance on the first floor of Tokyo Tower, colorfully decorating the foot of the tower. The spectacle of so many carp streamers blowing in the wind and swimming in the sky at once is a sight to behold. [Video] 0:13 - Tokyo Tower and 333 Carp Streamers Tokyo Tower's 333 Carp Streamers – The History of the Event and the Reason For the Large Pacific Saury Streamer Photo：Tokyo Tower's 333 Carp Streamers, a spring event at Tokyo Tower Tokyo Tower, a well-known symbol of Tokyo, is a former Japanese radio tower that was opened in December of 1958. At 333 meters tall, it was the world's tallest freestanding steel tower, surpassing the 312-meter Eiffel Tower in Paris. In 2011, Tokyo Tower handed over its role as a radio tower to Tokyo Sky Tree, but it continues to be loved as a symbol of Tokyo for its design and nostalgia. Located in Minato, the heart of Tokyo, Tokyo Tower's observation deck offers a panoramic view of the city of Tokyo. Various events and light ups are held throughout the year, making it a great tourist attraction for families and even couples. The Tokyo Tower's 333 Carp Streamers is an annual spring event at Tokyo Tower that began in 2009. During the event, 333 brightly colored carp streamers and giant sanmanobori (Pacific Saury streamer) are displayed at the foot of the tower to symbolize the tower's 333-meter height. The sanmanobori were first displayed in April 2011 as a symbol of support for those affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, who had forged friendships with one another through the Sanriku Ofunato Tokyo Tower Sanma Festival. Since then, the 6-meter-long pacific saury streamer from Ofunato, Iwate, has been displayed every year as a symbol to encourage the recovery of the area. If you visit Tokyo Tower for the event, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the large pacific saury swimming with the carp streamers. [Video] 0:30 - The Pacific Saury Streamer Highlights of Tokyo Tower's 333 Carp Streamers Light-Up Event! Photo：Tokyo Tower's 333 Carp Streamers lit up Tokyo Tower's 333 Carp Streamers is a popular event for its photogenic views. Families and camera enthusiasts visit from all over to take pictures of Tokyo Tower together with the carp streamers during spring. Tokyo Tower is also illuminated at night. The tower under the blue sky is beautiful enough, but when it's lit up at night, it's simply marvelous! During Tokyo Tower's 333 Carp Streamers festival every year, the carp streamers are also lit up fantastically with Tokyo Tower. The composition of Tokyo Tower and carp streamers from below makes for some incredible photos. It's also great for visitors who come during the late afternoon. How long will the "333 Carp Streamers" be held in 2024? Tokyo Tower's 333 Carp Streamers event is usually held from early April to early May, In 2023, the "333 Carp Streamers" took place from March 24 to May 7; in 2024, it will be held from March 20 to May 6. Taking photos of your kids with the carp streamers at Tokyo Tower is a great way to celebrate Children's Day on May 5! Other Events at Tokyo Tower Photo：Tokyo Tower's outer staircase Tokyo Tower hosts a number of exciting events like Tokyo Tower's 333 Carp Streamers. One event in particular is the "Open-air Outdoor Stairs Walk," which is a great way to enjoy Tokyo Tower to the fullest. Normally limited to Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, Tokyo Tower's famous 600-step staircase, which rises 150 meters into the sky, is open to the public every day during the event. 600 steps may sound daunting, but it takes an adult about 12 to 13 minutes to climb the stairs, and a child can complete the climb in about 15 minutes. There are also quizzes from the Noppon Brothers (the Tokyo Tower mascots) displayed along the climb, and there's even a Noppon Approved Stair Climbing Certificate waiting for you at the end, which cannot be purchased regularly. Ascending Tokyo Tower on your own, step by step, while enjoying the pleasant breeze and a view of Tokyo, is a unique and precious experience that you can't experience anywhere else! The tower is also brilliant when illuminated at night. The Open-air Outdoor Stairs Walk event has been extended due to its popularity, so be sure to check it out. How to Get to Tokyo Tower, Plus Admission Fees & Hours There are a number of ways to get to Tokyo Tower. Here, we'll introduce a few. A 5-minute walk from Akabanebashi Station via the Metropolitan Subway Oeda Line. A 15-minute walk from Hamamatsucho Station via JR lines. A 1-minute walk from the Tokyo Tower Bus Stop via Tokyu Bus from Tokyo Station (Approximately 30 minutes). This is likely the simplest way to get to Tokyo Tower if you're at Tokyo Station. Hours: Main Deck (150m) 9:00 am - 10:30 pm (Last admission 10:00 pm) Top Deck Tour (150m & 250m) 9:00 pm - 10:15 pm (Last Tour 9:30 pm - 9:45 pm) Admission Fees: Adults (Main Deck): 1,200 yen, Adults (Top Deck Tour): 2,800 yen (Online), 3,000 yen (Ticket counter) High school students (Main Deck): 1,000 yen, High school students (Top Deck Tour): 2,600 yen (Online), 2,800 yen (Ticket counter) Junior high school students (Main Deck): 700 yen, Junior high school students (Top Deck Tour): 1,800 yen (Online), 2,000 yen (Ticket counter) Children (Main Deck): 500 yen, Children (Top Deck Tour): 1,200 yen (Online), 1,400 yen (Ticket counter) Be sure to check out the official website for more details. Summary of Tokyo Tower's Koinobori Tokyo Tower's 333 Carp Streamers is a well-known springtime tradition. The collaboration of Tokyo Tower and the carp streamers is a must-see and can only be seen during spring. Consider a visit to Tokyo Tower this spring to see 333 colorful carp streamers and one giant 6-meter-long pacific saury streamer swimming powerfully in the heart of Tokyo! 【Official Website】Tokyo Tower 【TripAdvisor】Tokyo Tower

Wakakusa Yamayaki: Video Introduction This video, titled "'Yamayaki' Mountain Burning and Fireworks at a Traditional Winter Event on Mt. Wakakusa, Nara" (冬の風物詩・奈良の伝統行事『若草山焼き』：『Yamayaki』Mountain Burning and Fireworks at Mt.Wakakusa in Nara), was uploaded by "Nara Tourism Concierge JUN" (奈良観光コンシェルジュ JUN). Wakakusa Yamayaki is a traditional winter event held on Mt. Wakakusa in Nara city, Nara prefecture, as a requiem for the souls of the deceased that rest in Uguisuzuka Kofun (Uguisuzuka Tumulus), a keyhole-shaped burial mound located on the summit of Mt. Wakakusa. Today, the three major temples and shrines in Nara, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofukuji Temple, and Todaiji Temple, unite to hold this event to repose the souls of our ancestors, to pray for protection of the entire Nara area from fire, and to wish for the peace of people all over the world. Wakakusa Yamayaki takes place on the fourth Saturday of January every year, and many tourists come to Nara to watch to see the both the event and the fireworks show. Amidst the solemn atmosphere, the night sky of the ancient capital of Nara is decorated with fireworks and roaring flames, and the sight of the mountains rising up in the darkness is truly divine. Be sure to check out the amazing footage in the video before reading along. 　[Video] 0:53 - Wakakusa Yamayaki 　[Video] 1:50 - Wakakusa Yamayaki 　[Video] 2:55 - Wakakusa Yamayaki Mt. Wakakusa Highlights and Characteristics Photo：A deer on Mt. Wakakusa, Nara Prefecture Mt. Wakakusa is a famous tourist spot and a symbol of Nara. It is a small, gently sloping mountain 342 meters above sea level with an expanse of grass called "Noshiba." The mountain is also referred to as "Uguisuyama" due to the presence of the large keyhole-shaped tumulus Uguisuzuka Kofun, and "Mikasayama" (三笠山, lit. "Mountain of three hats") because it looks like three kasa (straw hats) stacked on top of each other. The mountain is also home to many deer. The summit provides a panoramic view of Nara Park and the city of Nara, and the night view of Nara from the top of the mountain has been recognized as one of the Top 3 Night Views of New Japan because of its beauty. When the mountain is open to the public, visitors can enjoy a 30-minute climb to the summit. The mountain is home to cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, and mountain burnings, offering beautiful views in every season. Wakakusa Yamayaki, a fire festival that signals a visit from spring, is popular among Nara residents and tourists alike as a wintertime tradition in Nara.It is held on the fourth Saturday of January each year, with the 2024 event scheduled for January 27. The History and Significance of Wakakusa Yamayaki Photo：Uguisuzuka Kofun, Mt. Wakakusa Wakakusa Yamayaki originated as a festival to appease the spirits buried in Uguisuzuka Kofun at the top of Mt. Wakakusa. People in the past feared that ghosts buried in Uguisuzuka Kofun would appear, so they decided to burn the mountain to prevent ghosts from appearing. From there, superstition spread that bad things would happen if Mt. Wakakusa was not burned, and there have been many incidents of people passing by the mountain setting it on fire without permission. In December 1738, the Nara Magistrate's Office issued an ordinance banning arson on Mt. Wakakusa, but even still it continued, and nearby temples and shrines, including Todaiji Temple, a famous World Heritage site, were in danger of catching fire. As a result, toward the end of the Edo period (approx. 1853 to 1868 A.D.), Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, and the Nara Magistrate's Office, all of which are located near Mt. Wakakusa, began to cooperate in the burning of the mountain. Today, the Shinto and Buddhist traditions of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofukuji Temple, and Todaiji Temple work together to conduct this traditional event, which is meant to repose and comfort the souls of the dead, prevent fires throughout Nara, and pray for the peace of people around the world. Where to See Wakakusa Yamayaki and Fireworks Photo：Wakakusa Yamayaki, Nara Prefecture One of the reasons why Wakakusa Yamayaki is so popular is that visitors can enjoy fireworks in winter. During Wakakusa Yamayaki, a large fireworks display is held with beautiful midwinter night sky. Once the fireworks start, the mountain is ignited simultaneously. Among the fireworks, there's Nara Prefecture's specialty "shakudama." This massive firework, with a one-foot diameter, measures 320 meters in diameter when it explodes, making it one of the most powerful fireworks in Nara Prefecture and heightening the anticipation for the Wakakusa Yamayaki fireworks display. 　[Video] 0:25 -Fireworks 　[Video] 1:22 - Fireworks 　[Video] 2:18 - Fireworks 　[Video] 3:01 - Fireworks Here, we'll introduce viewing spots where you can enjoy both the fireworks and the Wakakusa Yamayaki mountain burning. ●Daibutsuden Intersection (Ukigumo Enchi) At the Daibutsuden Intersection in front of Ukigumo Enchi (Ukigumo Park, 浮雲園地) and by the Daibutsuden Kasuga Taisha-mae Bus Information Center (大仏殿　春日大社前バス案内所, Daibutsuden Kasuga Taisha-mae Basu Annaijo), visitors can enjoy a nice view of Wakakusa Yamayaki. There's a bus stop and a parking lot as well, making this a popular spot for viewing the event. ●Kasugano Enchi Kasugano Enchi (Kasugano Park, 春日野園地) is a grassy open space located near the Daibutsuden Intersection. It's a spacious location where visitors can enjoy the fireworks and Wakakusa Yamayaki with an outstanding view. For details on traffic regulations, etc., please check the official website for the latest information before you go. Other viewing spots are as follows: ●Sarusawa Pond Sarusawa Pond (猿沢池, Sarusawa-ike) is a good spot to enjoy fireworks under the five-story pagoda of Kofukuji Temple. Although you have to climb up the hill to the five-story pagoda of Kofukuji to see the fireworks, you can take pictures of the five-story pagoda illuminated by the fireworks and the flames from Wakakusa Yamayaki. ●Rooftop of Nara Prefectural Office The rooftop of the Nara Prefectural Office Building (奈良県庁屋上, Nara Kencho Okujo) is open to the public on the day of Wakakusa Yamayaki. There is a lottery system in place to select viewers, so you need to apply in advance, but if you win, you can enjoy a relaxing view from the rooftop of the Nara Prefectural Office Building. ●Heijo Palace At Heijo Palace, visitors can enjoy a fantastic collaboration of Suzakumon Gate, fireworks, and the burning mountainside. The romantic view from here is recommended for dates. Wakakusa Yamayaki will be streamed live on YouTube, so if you're unable to make the event, consider watching it from the comfort of your own home! Summary of Wakakusa Yamayaki Photo：Wakakusa Yamayaki, Nara Prefecture The sight of the flames spreading over Mt. Wakakusa, a symbol of the ancient capital of Nara, is unforgettable. The night sky becomes colored by the flames from Wakakusa Yamayaki and the fireworks that are set off just before the event, and you'll be able to enjoy the divine sight of the mountain emerging in the darkness. Come to Nara this winter and experience a visit from spring with a trip to Wakakusa Yamayaki. ◆Mt. Wakakusa◆ 【Address】469 Zoshi-cho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture 【Mountain Opening Period】The Third Saturday in March - Second Sunday in December 【Hours】9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Excluding temporary openings of the mountain) 【Admission Fee】Adults (Junior high school, high school, and college students) ¥150, Elementary school students ¥80 【Access】A 12-minute walk from the Daibutsuden Kasuga Taisha-mae bus stop by city loop bus from JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station. Car: Nara Okuyama Driveway's "Shin-Wakakusa Mountain Course" (新若草山コース, Shin-Wakakusa Yama Kosu) 【TripAdvisor】Mt. Wakakusa

The Ashigakubo Icicles: Video Introduction This video, titled "A Spectacular View [Ashigakubo Icicles] Light-up｜A Top 3 Icicle Spot in Chichibu" (絶景「あしがくぼの氷柱」ライトアップ / 秩父三大氷柱2021), was uploaded by "Deep Channel / Shigeo Fukagawa" (Deepちゃんねる / 深川栄生). The Ashigakubo Icicles are generally open to the public from early January to late February in the town of Yokoze in Chichibu, Saitama, in Japan's Kanto Region, and are known as one of the top 3 icicle spots in Chichibu. At night on weekends, the icicles are lit up, attracting many tourists from all over Japan to see the fantastic sight of the icicles changing colors in the darkness. The icicles are just a 10-minute walk from Ashigakubo Station on the Seibu Railway line, making it an easily accessible spot for tourists to stop by. You can even take pictures of the icicles with the Seibu Chichibu Line train running nearby. Enjoy the realistic video of this beautiful icy world, which can only be viewed during the cold winter months in Japan. [Video] 0:51 - The Ashigakubo Icicles and the Nearby Train The Ashigakubo Icicles – How the Must-See Winter Attraction Is Created Photo：The Ashigakubo Icicles, Chichibu, Saitama The Top 3 Icicle Spots of Chichibu, which are normally visible from mid-January to mid-February, are a symbol of winter in Chichibu, a region known for its frigid temperatures. The three icicle spots are the Ashigakubo Icicles, the Misotsuchi Icicles, and the Onouchi Icicles. While the Misotsuchi Icicles are made up of natural icicles, the Onouchi Icicles and Ashigakubo Icicles are both man-made attractions. The magnificent icicles, which make good use of Chichibu's topography, are so impressive that it'is hard to believe that they're man made. The Ashigakubo Icicles are artificially created using sprinklers on the slope of the mountain. The giant field of icicles, standing 30 meters tall and 200 meters wide, covers the entire mountainside and is truly a sight to behold. The project was initiated by local residents of Yokoze and has become a popular tourist attraction since it was opened to the public in 2014. Because the Ashigakubo icicles are man-made rather than natural, it was possible to build a boardwalk where visitors can observe the icicles up close. This allows visitors to walk along the promenade and appreciate the various views of the icicles up close, as they change in height, angle, and color. The beautifully layered icicles are a work of ice art created through the cooperation of nature and man. Highlights & Attractions at the Ashigakubo Icicles Photo：The Ashigakubo Icicle illumination, Chichibu, Saitama The Ashigakubo Icicles are lit up both during the daytime as well as at night, making it a prominent midwinter event for sightseeing in Chichibu. The illumination lasts from sunset to 8 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays during the event period. Advance web reservations are required to view the illumination on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays. The Ashigakubo Icicle illumination slowly changes in color and intensity as it gets darker, adding to the fantastical atmosphere. The romantic view of the beautiful ice world is perfect for dates as well. We recommend enjoying the romantic view of the icicles while walking along the promenade, or from the top of the mountain overlooking the magical field of icicles. Another highlight of the event is the collaboration between the train and the icicles. If you're a photographer, or just looking to get a cool shot for Instagram, you can take an awesome photo of the train as it passes by the picturesque world of ice. [Video] 0:12 - The Ashigakubo Icicles Lit Up [Video] 0:51 - A Collaboration of the Train and Icicles Summary of the Ashigakubo Icicles Photo：Ashigakubo Station There are other places in Japan where large icicles can be seen in addition to the Ashigakubo Icicles, but they are not easy to visit due to long walks along steep paths. However, the Ashigakubo Icicles are the most accessible of the Top 3 Icicle Spots of Chichibu, and can be visited on a day trip from central Tokyo. The nearest station to the Ashigakubo Icicles is Ashigakubo Station on the Seibu Chichibu Line. It takes about 1.5 hours to reach Ashigakubo Station by train from Ikebukuro Station, and from there it's an approximately 10-minute walk. The Ashigakubo Icicles are a rare sightseeing spot where visitors can enjoy a spectacular winter view at just a train's ride from the heart of Tokyo. If you're in Japan this winter, consider visiting Chichibu for an extraordinary experience of ice and art. ◆Ice column with hollow legs◆ [Address] Daiji Ashigakubo, Yokose Town, Chichibu-Gun, Saitama Prefecture [Period] 16th to 25th February 2024 [Business Hours] Monday - Thursday 9:00-16:00 (last admission 16:00) [Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Holiday] Lighting up will be held from 17:00 to 20:00 　　　　　Light-up varies depending on sunset time 　　　　　*Lighting up on Saturdays, Sundays and national holidays is by advance reservation (web) Day and night exchange system [Admission fee] 500 yen (over junior high school students) · 300 yen (elementary school students) [Transportation access] Seibu Chichibu Line Ashigakubo StationGet off and walk 10 minutes [Parking] Yes (free) Accept pets: Yes 【TripAdvisor】The Ashigakubo Icicles

Harukas 300 – The Abeno Harukas Observatory: Video Introduction Photo：Abeno Harukas and an 'OSAKA' sign This video, titled "Night View from Harukas 300, the Abeno Harukas Observatory, Osaka, Japan) (あべのハルカス展望台 ハルカス300からの大阪夜景), was uploaded by "Night Movie Channel of Osaka Japan." At 300 meters (984 ft.) tall, Abeno Harukas, which opened in March 2014, is the tallest skyscraper in Japan. The skyscraper is located in the Abeno Ward of Osaka City. The Abeno Harukas observation deck, named Harukas 300, is located on floor 58-60 of Abeno Harukas. The night view from Harukas 300 is known as a spectacular spot from which to view the entire city of Osaka. Be sure to check it on in the video as you read on! 　[Video] 0:07 - Abeno Harukas 　[Video] 0:58 - Night View of Osaka From the Observatory Gallery at Harukas 300 　[Video] 4:50 - Harukas 300's Sky Garden More About Harukas 300, the Abeno Harukas Observatory Photo：People enjoying the view from Harukas 300, the observation deck of Abeno Harukas Abeno Harukas is a 60-story skyscraper completed in 2014 in the Abeno Ward of Osaka City. The name Abeno Harukas is derived from the name of the Abeno district where it is located, and the ancient word harukasu, meaning "to clear the skies." Because of its diverse facilities, such as department stores, restaurants, museums, offices, hotels, and observation decks, all housed in one city-like area, Abeno Harukas has become a popular tourist attraction in Osaka. Abeno Harukas' observatory, Harukas 300, is Japan's tallest tower at 300 meters (984 ft.) and consists of three levels on the 58th, 59th, and 60th floors. Many tourists visit the observatory every day to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking view. The observatory gallery, located on the top floor of Harukas 300, is made completely of glass, giving visitors the unique sensation that they're walking on air. From the corridor, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of central Osaka, Osaka Bay, and Mt. Ikoma. In addition, if the weather permits it, you can even see Mt. Rokko, Kyoto, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Awaji Island, Mt. Ikoma, and Kansai International Airport. In addition to the observatory gallery, there is an outdoor area called Sky Garden which is surrounded by plants, making it a great place to relax. Various events are held here as well. There are also cafés, restaurants, and stores inside the observatory, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink along with the view. Harukas 300 Tickets, Discounts, and Free Gardens Photo：Abeno Harukas Admission to Harukas 300 is 1,500 yen for adults, 1,200 yen for junior high and high school students, 700 yen for elementary school students, 500 yen for young children, and free for children under 3 years of age. Visitors with disabilities and groups can enter at a discounted rate. Same-day tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter on the 16th floor of Abeno Harukas on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are traveling from far away, you can purchase advance vouchers or e-tickets to shorten your wait time. Advance vouchers can be purchased at Kintetsu Station sales offices, and e-tickets can be purchased online in advance. Both are valid for 30 days from the date of purchase. Harukas 300 1-day tickets, which allow re-entry into the facility, are 1,950 yen for adults, 1,650 yen for junior high and high school students, 950 yen for elementary school students, 750 yen for young children, and free for children under 3 years of age. In addition, Harukas Wing Garden, located on the 10th floor rooftop of Abeno Harukas' Wing Building, is an area with free admission and benches to sit and rest. Events and other events are held in the space, and in winter there are also illuminations. Enjoy the Night View at Harukas 300 With the Heliport Tour! Photo：The night view from Harukas 300, the observation deck of Abeno Harukas Abeno Harukas also has a heliport on its rooftop. Here you can enjoy the Harukas 300 Heliport Tour. The attraction of this tour is that you can monopolize the spectacular view from 300 meters above the ground, the highest point in Japan, while feeling the wind on your skin. Heliport tours are conducted 15 times a day, but we particularly recommend the nighttime tour. The nighttime heliport tours allow you to enjoy a beautiful night view of Osaka in a romantic atmosphere. A Dinner Date With a View – Restaurants at Abeno Harukas Photo：The night view from Harukas 300, the observation deck of Abeno Harukas There are a number of restaurants at Abeno Harukas with beautiful night views that are great for a date. Here are three restaurants at Abeno Harukas that we recommend for dinner. ●Restaurant ZK in Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel - 57th Floor Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel is located on the upper floors of Abeno Harukas. Restaurant ZK is located on the 57th floor, the top floor, and promises a beautiful view of the city of Osaka. The menu is characterized by its fusion of Japanese and Western ingredients. ●BAR PLUS in Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel - 19th Floor An open bar located on the 19th floor front lobby of the Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel. It offers a variety of light meals and alcoholic beverages, making it an elegant place to enjoy a night out. ●Aloha Table Abeno Harukas Dining - 14th Floor Aloha Table is an open-plan restaurant divided into a café/dining area and a bar space. The carefully selected interior and Hawaiian music create a relaxing space that will make you feel as though you've taken a trip to Hawaii. Unlike the bright scenery during the day, you can enjoy the beautiful night view of Osaka in the calm lighting at night. Enjoy the beautiful night view as well as the gastronomic delights at the various restaurants at Abeno Harukas. We recommend making reservations in advance if you're interested in a window seat. Things to Do at Abeno Harukas Photo：The view from the glass floor of Harukas 300, the Abeno Harukas observation deck Abeno Harukas houses numerous tourist attractions and hosts a wide variety of events. For example, EDGE THE HARUKAS is a newly built attraction at the top of the building, 300 meters above the ground. Visitors can enjoy walking along the edge of the building with a lifeline attached to them. The Abeno Harukas Art Museum, conveniently located within Abeno Harukas, has a high ceiling and 880 square meters of exhibition space. The museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibits, including both Asian and Western art and a wide range of art events are held here. The museum is popular among locals and tourists alike. Things to Do Near Abeno Harukas Photo：Shitennoji Temple in Osaka Below is a list of tourist attractions we recommend checking out near Abeno Harukas. Shitennoji Temple Founded in 593, Shitennoji Temple is one of, if not the, oldest temple in Japan. It was founded by Prince Shotoku, a legendary figure in Japanese history. The temple is home to a 5-story pagoda, a lovely garden where you can enjoy cherry blossoms in spring, and the temple hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Hours: Temple/Central Temple/Garden: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm (April - September), 8:30 am - 4:00 pm (October - March) ※Besides the areas listed above, the gate for Shitennoji Temple is open 24 hours. Tsutenkaku Tower One of the most famous landmarks in Osaka, the original Tsutenkaku Tower was built in 1912, although it was destroyed by a fire in 1943 and rebuilt in 1956. The Tower Slider, a 60-meter-long slide, is a new attraction that visitors can enjoy at the tower. Hours: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm (7:30 pm last admission) Admission Fee: Adults: 900 yen, Children (ages 5 to junior high school students): 400 yen. ※Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. Tennoji Zoo Tennoji Zoo opened in 1915 and is home to a variety of animals, including polar bears, penguins, giraffes, lions, etc. Hours: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm Admission Fee: Adults: 500 yen, Junior high and elementary school students: 200 yen, Preschoolers and younger: Free How to Get to Abeno Harukas Photo：Tennoji Station, Osaka There are a number of ways to get to Abeno Harukas depending on where you're coming from; below we'll introduce a few of them. Osaka International Airport to Abeno Harukas If you're traveling to Japan and will be landing in Osaka, or will be leaving Japan via Osaka International Airport, this is far and away the simplest way to get to Abeno Harukas. There is a scheduled limousine bus to Abeno Harukas that departs every 30 minutes from Osaka International Airport. The bus will take you to Osaka Abenobashi Station and from there it's a 5-minute walk to Abeno Harukas. That same limousine bus departs from Abeno Harukas for Osaka International airport every 30 minutes as well. The bus ride is 30 minutes each way and costs 650 yen per person. Kansai International Airport to Abeno Harukas From Kansai International Airport, you can take the Haruka 34 limited express train to Tennoji Station and from there it's a 2-minute walk to Abeno Harukas. Just like the limousine bus from Osaka International Airport, this train is scheduled every 30 minutes, but the fare is 2,370 yen per person. Kyoto to Abeno Harukas To get to Abeno Harukas from Kyoto, it's a 45-minute train ride via the Haruka 37 limited express train which will take you from Kyoto Station to Tennoji Station. The fare is 2,680 yen per person. From anywhere else in Japan, the easiest way to get to Abeno Harukas is to head towards Tennoji Station, the nearest station, and from there walk to Abeno Harukas. Summary of Abeno Harukas Photo：The view from the observatory of Abeno Harukas The observation deck Harukas 300 is located on the top floor of Abeno Harukas, the tallest skyscraper in Japan. The view from 300 meters (984 ft.) above the ground is breathtaking, offering a panoramic view of Osaka City and the surrounding landscape. From couples to family trips, Abeno Harukas can be enjoyed in all kinds of ways. Be it a date or other special occasion, why not enjoy a meal at Harukas 300 while viewing a beautiful night view of Osaka? 【Official Website】Abeno Harukas　 【TripAdvisor】Abeno Harukas

Otaru Art Base and its Stained Glass Museum in Otaru, Hokkaido: Video introduction This video, titled "OTARU – Otaru Art Base and its Stained Glass Museum" (【小樽】小樽芸術村 ステンドグラス美術館), was uploaded by "Nichimen Auto System" (日免オートシステム). The Otaru Canal, one of the best tourist destinations in Hokkaido, has a nostalgic atmosphere. Otaru Art Base, composed of retro buildings on the banks of the canal, exhibits various arts and crafts from around the world. The Stained Glass Museum, formerly the Takahashi Warehouse, is one of the retro buildings along the canal. The video clip shows the priceless stained glass art that was actually used in old chapels in England from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. Enjoy the beautiful and solemn space of lights in the video, while pondering these historical artworks. Otaru Art Base – Utilizing Historical Buildings Photo：The Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch, Otaru Art Base, Otaru, Hokkaido Otaru, Hokkaido has been prospering as a gateway to Hokkaido thanks to its surrounding waters. Many financial and trading companies have been stationed here since around 1930, and developed the area as an economic center. Otaru Art Base was established in July 2016 in Otaru, Hokkaido by Nitori Group, a popular Japanese furniture retail company that originated in Hokkaido. Its operation has been managed by the Nitori Cultural Foundation since October 2020. Otaru Art Base has five historic buildings that were built in the early 20th century that include the former Arata Firm, the former Takahashi Warehouse, the former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch, the former Hokkaido Takushoku Bank Otaru Branch, and the former Naniwa Warehouse. They display excellent pieces of art from both Japan and around the world. Because it utilizes historically valuable buildings in Otaru, both the exhibits and the architecture have outstanding value as a cultural heritages from the past. Highlights of Stained Glass Museum in Otaru Art Base Source :Yuzuki Mio's post: Image of God and the Glory of Great Britain The Stained Glass Museum is in the former Takahashi Warehouse, one of the buildings of the Otaru Art Base, displays stained glass that actually used to decorate chapel windows. The stained glass was crafted in England in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Unfortunately, many chapels in England have been demolished in recent years, but these works managed to survive and ended up in Japan by chance. Among many valuable works, it exhibits the stained-glass version of the famous artwork "The Last Supper" and "God and the Glory of Great Britain," which was produced to commemorate the victory and victims of World War I. [Video] 1:38 - God and the Glory of Great Britain [Video] 6:06 - The Last Supper The museum is full of the history of England. You can feel the flow of time up close through the figures and lettering on the stained glass artworks. [Video] 5:33 - God and the Glory of Great Britain Viewed From the 2nd Floor [Video] 6:00 - The Sower Highlights of the House of Western Art, Nitori Museum, and Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch in Otaru Art Base Photo：Nitori Museum, Otaru, Hokkaido In addition to the Stained Glass Museum, the Otaru Art Base also has House of Western Art, Nitori Museum, and the former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch. Be careful as photography is prohibited is some of these buildings. Here, we'll introduce the highlights of each facility at Otaru Art Base and specific locations where photography is prohibited. ● House of Western Art The House of Western Art, which is the fourth museum in the Otaru Art Base, was just recently opened on April 28, 2022. The highlights are the stained glass produced in Europe and the United States from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, as well as Art Nouveau and Art Deco glass crafts. Photography is permitted here, but the flash photography, selfie sticks, and video recording are prohibited. ● Nitori Museum The Nitori Museum is in an old bank building. It has become a popular tourist spot with a large number of outstanding works, such as modern Japanese paintings and Western paintings. A must-see is the powerful stained glass by stained glass artist Louis C. Tiffany. You can take pictures of the stained glass exhibited at the entrance, but no other photography is permitted inside the building due to the presence of copyrighted works. ● Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch From the end of the Meiji Period to the beginning of the Showa Period, Otaru was called Northern Wall Street because it was extremely prosperous as an economic center. The building that symbolizes this prosperity is the Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch. This building has been designated as an Important Cultural Property. Highlights include the Renaissance-style masonry exterior, a beautiful plaster ceiling, and a safety deposit box and drawing room that give you a sense of the atmosphere of a bank at the time. Furthermore, be sure to check out the projection mapping that takes place every hour on the 1st floor. Photography is allowed in this building, but video recordings are prohibited. Admission Fees, Required Time for Otaru Art Base, and Reviews Photo：A woman looking at her phone Next, we'll go over admission fees, the time required to visit Otaru Art Base, and reviews. First, the Admission fee. We recommend the discount "Four Combined Museum Pass" ticket when visiting Otaru Art Base: 2,900 yen for adults, 2,000 yen for university students, 1,500 yen for high school students, 1,000 yen for junior high school students, and 500 yen for elementary school students. This ticket is cheaper than buying individual tickets for two museums. It's a great deal! Individual fees for the Stained Glass Museum are 1,000 yen for adults, 800 yen for university students, 600 yen for high school students, 500 yen for junior high school students, and 300 yen for elementary school students. Individual fees for the former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch are 700 yen for adults, 500 yen for university students, 400 yen for high school students, 300 yen for junior high school students, and 200 yen for elementary school students. Individual fees for either the Nitori Museum or the House of Western Art are 1,500 yen for adults, 1,000 yen for university students, 700 yen for high school students, 500 yen for junior high school students, and 300 yen for elementary school students. University/high school/junior high school students are required to present their student ID at the reception. Elementary and junior high school students in Otaru can get in free with the Otaru Resident Special Discount. Those with documentation of a physical disability, rehabilitation, or mental disability can receive free admission, plus one designated caregiver. Please check the official website for more details. The estimated time required for Otaru Art Base is about 3 hours in total if the museum is not crowded. The estimated time required for each museum is as follows: ● Stained Glass Museum: Approximately 30 minutes ● Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch: Approximately 30 minutes ● Nitori Museum: Approximately 60 minutes ● House of Western Art: Approximately 60 minutes Many reviews for Otaru Art Base talk about the beauty of the exhibits and praise their harmony with the historical buildings. People also praise the number of exhibits, and are often surprised at the quality, saying that it's worth more than what you pay! Other Things to Do in Otaru Below is a short list of other things to do in Otaru, Hokkaido. Otaru Museum Otaru Museum is a museum that displays exhibits related to the history, nature, transportation, and science of Hokkaido. The museum is actually made up of 2 separate buildings: the main building, and the canal pavilion. They are a 20-minute walk from one another but you can purchase a ticket to visit both. Hours: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm Admission Fee: General admission: 400 yen (winter 300 yen), high school students and senior citizens living in the area: 200 yen (winter 150 yen), Junior high school students and younger: free Otaru Music Box Museum The Otaru Music Box Museum is located in a historical building that was built in 1915. It's home to 80,000 music boxes of 5,000 different varieties, making it one of the largest music box stores in Japan. It's a great place to go if you like music boxes, art, or are looking for souvenirs. The museum is a 15-minute walk from Otaru Art Base. Hours: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Admission Fee: Free Sankaku Market Otaru Market began around 1948 when a group of street vendors opened near Otaru Station. Eventually it developed into a morning market, attracting people from various regions in Japan. It's a great place to eat some delicious seafood and buy some local specialties to commemorate your trip to Otaru. Sankaku Market is located right next to Otaru Station and is a 12-minute walk from Otaru Art Base. Hours: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm (restaurants 7:00 am - 5:00 pm) All of these locations are within close proximity to one another, so if you're visiting Otaru, you can easily visit a number of different places in a single day, making for a really efficient trip. Summary of Otaru Art Base, in Otaru, Hokkaido Otaru is a port town with a beautiful retro townscape that evokes a sense of history. It's a popular tourist spot where you can enjoy nature, shopping, and delicious food, but also breathtaking works of art. Otaru Art Base is also home to buildings that themselves are works of art, and you can appreciate precious art pieces inside them while exploring their history. If you're in Otaru, Hokkaido, or are planning on visiting, be sure to stop by Otaru Art Base! 【Official Website】Stained Glass Museum (Former Takahashi Warehouse) | Otaru Art Base 【TripAdvisor】Otaru Art Base, Stained Glass Museum

The Bald Cypresses of Sasaguri Kyudai Forest: Video Introduction This video, titled "Giant Conical Trees in a Pond "Bald Cypresses" in Sasaguri, Fukuoka" (view 池に浮かぶ円錐の巨木　福岡県篠栗町の「ラクウショウ」), was uploaded by "SankeiNews." Sasaguri Kyudai Forest is located at the western edge of the Kyushu University Forest in Sasaguri, Fukuoka, in Japan's Kyushu Region. Approximately 50 species of evergreen broad-leaved trees and 40 species of deciduous broad-leaved trees grow in this lush 42-acre forest. The mysterious beauty of the bald cypresses floating on the surface of the water in Sasaguri Kyudai Forest has become a hot topic in Japan, attracting a constant stream of visitors from all across the country. Please take a look at the video below to see the mystical view of Sasaguri Kyudai Forest created by the bald cypresses. [Video] 0:37 - Sasaguri Kyudai Forest An Introduction to Kyushu University Kyushu University, often abbreviated to "Kyudai," is a Japanese university in Fukuoka Prefecture. It is one of the top universities in Japan according to various sources, including the Times Higher Education Japan University Rankings, where it currently ranks 6th. While most courses at Kyushu University are taught in Japanese and will require a JLPT N1 certificate to qualify for, the university also teaches a number of courses in English, and accepts students with an IELTS score of 6.0 or greater. In order to study abroad at Kyushu University, you must be enrolled as a degree student at one of Kyushu University's partner institutions, and be nominated by your home university as a candidate. Kyushu University's graduate school programs have differing requirements in each department, but enrolling in graduate school at Kyushu University requires students pass an entrance exam that is regarded as one of the most difficult in Japan. What is Sasaguri Kyudai Forest? Photo：Sasaguri Kyudai Forest, Sasaguri, Fukuoka Sasaguri Kyudai Forest is located at the western edge of Kyushu University Forest in Sasaguri, Fukuoka, and is jointly managed and operated by Kyushu University and the town of Sasaguri. There is also a walking trail and the area has been open to the public since 2010. The vast 42-acre Sasaguri Kyudai Forest is home to about 50 species of evergreen broad-leaved trees, including itajii and Japanese blue oaks, and around 40 species of deciduous broad-leaved trees, including jolcham oaks and Japanese wax trees. The most eye-catching of all are the giant bald cypress trees. More than a dozen conical trunks can be seen standing in a corner of Kamata Pond. The bald cypress is characterized by its aerial roots. The aerial roots protruding from the ground supply oxygen to the submerged roots. In Japanese, the bald cypress is called "Rakusho" (ラクウショウ), but another name for the tree, which is native to North America, is "numasugi" meaning "swamp cedar." As this name suggests, it prefers places such as swamps and wetlands. The bald cypresses at Sasaguri Kyudai Forest were planted from seedlings in 1977 by Kyushu University to study the tree. The trees are currently around 20 meters tall, but can grow as tall as 40 meters in their natural habitat. The tree's appearance also changes with the seasons, with bright green leaves in the summer and autumn colors in the fall. There's a 2km-long promenade around Kamata Pond in the center of Sasaguri Kyudai Forest, which has been certified as a "forest therapy base" by the Forestry Agency of Japan for its pleasant atmosphere which is great for forest bathing. The Habitat and Characteristics of the Bald Cypress, and How It Differs From the Dawn Redwood Photo：Dawn redwoods The bald cypress is a deciduous coniferous tree of the cypress family (Cupressaceae) native to North America. The name bald cypress comes from their historical tendency to be among the first trees in the American South to lose their leaves in the fall. The bald cypress is characterized by its ability to grow in swampy areas, as evidenced by its other name, "numasugi" (ヌマスギ, lit "swamp cedar"). Another characteristic of the bald cypress, which grows very fast, is that when it becomes an old tree, it grows aerial roots that serve to supply oxygen to its submerged roots. The bald cypress is easily mistaken for the dawn redwood, which has a similar leaf shape, but the difference is obvious when looking at the way the leaves are attached. The bald cypress' leaves are attached to the branches in opposite directions, while the dawn redwood's leaves are attached to the same part of the branch in pairs. [Video] 0:42 - The Roots of the Bald Cypress The Waterfront Forest at Sasaguri Kyudai Forest + the Best Times to See the Bald Cypresses Photo：Bald cypresses at Sasaguri Kyudai Forest, Sasaguri, Fukuoka The 2km-long promenade around Kamata Pond at Sasaguri Kyudai Forest is dotted with attractions, including five plazas. Among them, the Waterfront Forest offers a mysterious view that makes you feel as if you have wandered into the world of Ghibli, and has become a popular spot on Japanese Instagram. This spectacular view can be seen when the water level of Kamata Pond is high. The best time to see the water level rise is from early spring to around the end of Japan's rainy season (June-mid-July). In contrast, the water level is low from summer to fall, but during this period, you can see the aerial roots of the bald cypresses. The best time to see the autumn leaves is mid-November, when the falling leaves decorate the area around the trees in place of the water. Sasaguri Kyudai Forest – Directions and Nearest Station Here is how to get to Sasaguri Kyudai Forest. If you go by train, the nearest station is Kadomatsu Station. Take the JR Fukuhoku Yutaka Line rapid train bound for Nogata at Hakata Station (platform 8), get off at Kadomatsu Station, and take a taxi to the Sasaguri Kyudai Forest south exit parking lot (篠栗九大の森南口駐車場, Sasaguri Kyudai no Mori Minami-guchi Chushajo), which takes about 10 minutes. The train ride from Hakata Station takes about 17 minutes, or 4 stops if you take the rapid train. The fare is 280 yen. If you take a bus, the nearest station is Kasuya Police Station. Take a highway bus bound for "Iizuka/Tagawa" from Tenjin Expressway BT bus stop #1 and get off at "Kasuya Keisatsu Sho-mae" (粕谷警察署前). Go straight for about 300m east on the sidewalk with the bus stop, turn left and keep going straight until you see the information board for "Sasaguri Kyudai Forest", follow the sign and you will arrive at Sasaguri Kyudai Forest in about 15 minutes on foot from "Kasuya Keisatsu Sho-mae". The bus ride from Tenjin to "Kasuya Keisatsu Sho-mae" takes about 35 minutes and costs 510 yen. If you're going by car, the shortest route to the waterfront forest is via the "North Exit Parking Lot." Directions are as follows: Exit the expressway at the "Fukuoka IC" and go straight for about 2 km in the direction of Iizuka (飯塚). Then turn left at the "Wadabashi Signal," go about 50m, turn left again, go straight for about 300m, then turn right and go uphill. Continue straight and you will arrive at the South Exit Parking Lot of Sasaguri Kyudai Forest. Go straight for about 200m from the South Exit Parking Lot, then turn right and walk about 300m through the forest to reach the North Exit Parking Lot. Although you can get there by car, we recommend using public transportation to avoid traffic congestion caused by the increase in the number of tourists to Sasaguri Kyudai Forest. Summary of the Bald Cypresess of Sasaguri Kyudai Forest Sasaguri Kyudai Forest is a photogenic spot that is rapidly gaining popularity. However, it's become so popular that many tourists visit the forest. As a result, the forest is experiencing problems, such as traffic congestion, and destruction of the forest due to violations of etiquette, such as barbecuing, littering, and taking photos in restricted areas. They've even considered closing the area to allow the forest to recover.... To prevent this from happening, please follow the rules and manners, and enjoy the cypresses of Sasaguri Kyudai Forest, one of the best healing spaces in Fukuoka. [TripAdvisor] Sasaguri Kyudai Forest

Tulips at Hitachi Seaside Park: Video Introduction This video, titled "[4K Ultra HD] Tulip Garden in Hitachi Seaside Park" ([ 4K Ultra HD ] ひたち海浜公園のチューリップ - Tulip Garden in Hitachi Seaside Park -), was uploaded by "AQUA Geo Graphic." Hitachi Seaside Park (国営ひたち海兵公園, kokuei hitachi kaihei koen)—located in Hitachinaka, Ibaraki, in Japan's Kanto region—is known for its nemophila (baby blue eyes) flowers which grow there in the spring. Miharashi Hill (みはらしの丘, miharashi no oka) is the park's most famous attraction, but, blooming during almost exactly the same period, the colorful Tulip Garden is also an impressive sight! Check out the video to see the colorful tulips that decorate the garden. [Video] 0:01 - The Tulip Garden at Hitachi Seaside Park Hitachi Seaside Park's Iconic Spring Flower: Nemophila Photo：Hitachi Seaside Park, Ibaraki Located on the Pacific coast of Hitachinaka in Ibaraki Prefecture, Hitachi Seaside Park is a city park that makes the most of its surroundings, which include dunes, grasslands, and springs. The huge 530-acre park is split into seven areas. In addition to the flower gardens, which remain gorgeous throughout the four seasons, the park has a wide range of leisure facilities that can be enjoyed outdoors, including an adventure playground where kids can play. Hitachi Seaside Park's biggest attraction is the flowers that bloom throughout each season, of which the nemophila are by far the most prominent. Approximately 5.3 million blue nemophila can be seen blooming across Miharashi Hill. On a clear day, it can feel as if you've stumbled into a world of fantasy as the blue sky stretches down to meet the overwhelming scene of millions of baby blue eyes. This scenery was so beautiful it became famous and Hitachi Seaside Park turned into a popular tourist destination amongst Instagrammers for its photogenic views. Tulips at Hitachi Seaside Park + When to Visit & More! Photo：Tulips at Hitachi Seaside Park, Hitachinaka, Ibaraki From mid to late April—almost the same time as Hitachi Seaside Park's famous hill of nemophila is in full bloom—the Tulip Garden is also in season. Hitachi Seaside Park's Tulip Garden is covered by 260,000 tulips from around 230 species. "Happy Generations" contrast beautifully in white and red, while bright red "Aladdins" with their pointed tips catch one's eye, and "Antoinettes" add a touch of pizazz with their yellow petals with pink tips. You can enjoy a wide variety of beautiful tulips here, and the greenery of the trees combined with the flowers is sure to be a hit on Instagram, too. See if you can pick a favorite from the tulips blooming in the park. [Video] 1:12 - An Assortment of Tulips [Video] 1:43 - Tulips Blooming Under the Sun [Video] 2:13 - Individual Tulips What Flowers Are Currently Blooming at Hitachi Seaside Park? Photo：Kochia at Hitachi Seaside Park, Hitachinaka, Ibaraki You can enjoy flowers throughout all four seasons at Hitachi Seaside Park, with the obvious inclusion of nemophila and tulips. Here, we'll introduce all the flowers you can see at Hitachi Seaside Park, season by season. • Spring (March - May) Rape blossoms, Japanese plum blossoms, daffodils, Christmas roses, peach blossoms, tulips, nemophila, poppies, linaria, roses. • Summer (June - August) Roses, chimaphila, lavender, lilies, kochia (green), zinnia, titanbicus, sunflowers, pampas grass. • Fall (September - November) Pampas grass, zinnia, buckwheat, yellow cosmos, cosmos, kochia (red), lespedeza, roses, chrysanthemum japonicum, Japanese silverberries, chrysanthemum pacificum. • Winter (December - February) Metasequoia (red leaves), ice tulips, wintersweets, adonis ramosa, plum blossoms. Depending on the climate in any given year, there may be discrepancies in the species of flower and when they are in bloom. Be sure to look up the latest information to see the seasonal flowers at their best. Hitachi Seaside Park Admission Fees & Parking Information Photo：Hitachi Seaside Park, Hitachinaka, Ibaraki Hitachi Seaside Park's admission fees are as follows: • Adults (high school age+) Standard: 450 yen (290 yen for groups of 20 or more) • Adults (high school age+) Two day: 500 yen (350 yen for groups of 20 or more) • Seniors (65+) Regular: 210 yen (210 yen for groups of 20 or more) • Seniors (65+) Two day: 250 yen (250 yen for groups of 20 or more) • Children (middle school age and below): Free Admission fees must be paid in cash. Credit cards and electronic money are not accepted, be sure to bring cash so you don't get stuck outside the park! Each year, there are days when entry to Hitachi Seaside Park is free (not including parking fees etc.). Be sure to check the official website for the 2023 free-entry schedule. Parking fees for a day at Hitachi Seaside Park are as follows: • Heavy vehicles: 1580 yen • Standard vehicles: 520 yen * Standard vehicles (with yearly pass): 420 yen • Motorcycles: 260 yen * Motorcycles (with yearly pass): 210 yen Yearly pass prices are as follows: • Adults (high school age+) - entry only: 4500 yen • Adults (high school age+) - with parking: 6600 yen • Seniors (65+) - entry only: 2100 yen • Seniors (65+) - with parking: 4200 yen Showing your yearly pass when parking at the toll booth will allow you to park one regular car free of charge. Be sure to confirm the prices before you visit and get your money's worth at Hitachi Seaside Park. Access to Hitachi Seaside Park From Tokyo Access to Hitachi Seaside Park from Tokyo is as follows: Bus: Approximately 2 hours by Ibraraki Kotsu expressway bus bound for Katsuta/Tokai from the Yaesu South Exit of Tokyo Station. Train: Approximately 2 hrs. by train. From Tokyo station to Katsuta Station 1 hr. 15 mins. From Katsuta Station, bus stop #2, take the regular bus to Hitachi Seaside Park's West Exit (Approximately 15 mins), or to the South Exit (Approximately 20 mins). Car: Take the Joban Expressway to the Kita-Kanto Expressway, and then the Hitachinaka Toll Road. Exit at the Hitachi Seaside Park IC (Approximately 1 hr. 30 mins). Summary of Tulips at Hitachi Seaside Park During nemophila season at Hitachi Seaside Park, the tulip garden has become a favorite of those who know about it. That there are around 230 species of tulip is a surprise in and of itself! Be sure to take photos of singular tulips as well as tulips in groups. Because of the sheer size of the park, as well as the various attractions, you can expect to spend anywhere from 2-5 hours at the park, depending on who you come with, your pace, and your plans. Enjoy a warm spring day at Hitachi Seaside Park! ◆Hitachi Seaside Park◆ 【Address】605-4 Onuma-aza, Mawatari, Hitachinaka, Ibaraki 【Hours】9:30 am - 5:00 pm (※Closing time varies by season) 【Admission Fee】Adults (high school age+): 450 yen *Middle schoolers and younger free 【Closures】Every Tuesday (if Tuesday is a national holiday, the following Wednesday), December 31, January 1, the first Monday in February through Friday of that week ※During certain periods the park opens every day. For more details, please visit the official website. 【Official Website】Hitachi Seaside Park 【TripAdvisor】Hitachi Seaside Park

Bungotakada, Oita: Video Introduction This video, titled "Bungotakada City," was uploaded by "Bungotakada City Official Channel" (豊後高田市公式チャンネル). Bungotakada is a pleasant town with abundant nature and a mild climate in Oita Prefecture, in Japan's Kyushu region. The city has a culture that has remained unchanged for millennia, as well as many fascinating places of interest, and is currently attracting attention as a town from the Showa period (1926-1989). You can see the beautiful nature of Bungotakada and its exciting festivals in this powerful video. Bungotakada – A Showa-Retro City in Oita, Japan Photo：A Showa-retro shopping street, Bungotakada, Oita Prefecture Bungotakada in Oita Prefecture is home to many photogenic, Showa-retro tourist attractions. The atmosphere of the city is somewhat nostalgic for Japanese people who grew up in the Showa period and refreshing for young people, who can enjoy the historic atmosphere, allowing different generations to enjoy the city together. Bungotakada has also been selected as one of the "Top 3 Countryside Towns to Live in" for 10 consecutive years. The secret of its popularity lies in its immigration support system, which is one of the best in the country, and its excellent environment for raising children. In fact, between 2010 and 2015, the number of people moving into the city exceeded the number of people moving out by 180, resulting in a population increase. Enjoying the Showa-Retro Style of Bungotakada In Bungotakada, where the streets of Showa-period Japan still remain, visitors can have an extraordinary experience, as if they've gone back in time. In particular, the shopping street that recreates the streets of the 1930s is a popular tourist attraction that attracts approximately 400,000 visitors a year. It has also been used as a filming location for popular Japanese movies. Visitors can also enjoy delicious food and snacks at the retro candy store Yume Hakubutsukan (夢博物館, Dream Museum). It's a great way to experience what Japan was like in the past, as visitors can see many products that are hard to find nowadays. Visitors can also ride in the bonnet buses that were used in those days. You can experience what is was like back then with the retro interior of the buses. However, please note that the bonnet buses are not air-conditioned, so be careful to dress appropriately for the heat or cold. Recommended sightseeing spot "Nagasaki Hana" What is the best time to see rape blossoms and sunflowers? Photo：Kumano Magaibutsu, Oita Prefecture At the Nagasakibana Resort Campground, seasonal flowers can be seen blooming throughout the year. In spring, you can see rape blossoms blooming all over the area. The rape blossoms are usually at their best from mid-March to April. During the best time to see them, the "Rape Blossom Festa" is held, which includes a photo contest and other events. If the timing is right, visitors can enjoy the collaboration of approximately 300 cherry trees and 22 million rape blossoms. Also, in summer, the terraced fields of sunflowers offer a spectacular view of the blooming sunflowers. The best time to see sunflowers is usually from mid-August to early September. If you are planning to visit in 2024, please check the SNS. Particularly in August, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking view of approximately 1.5 million sunflowers. [Video] 0:37 - Sunflowers at Nagasakibana Beach Resort Recommended tourist spot "Kumano Magaibutsu" has stairs made by demons? Kumano Magaibutsu (Kumano Magaibutsu) is one of the largest Magaibutsu in Japan, and is a nationally designated important cultural property believed to have been created in the late Heian period. There are 99 rough and steep stone steps that are said to have been built by demons in a single night. The Kumano Magaibutsu is located at the top of the steps. The statue blends naturally into the surrounding landscape as if it had been there for a long time. The Buddha statues carved into the rock face are approximately 6.8 meters high for the Dainichi Nyorai statue and 8 meters high for the Fudo Myoo statue. Further up the mountain is the Kumano Shrine, which tells the story of the union of Shintoism and Buddhism. Fireworks, Bon Festivals, and other Fascinating Seasonal Events to Enjoy Photo：Horan Enya, Bungotakada, Oita Prefecture The Nagasakibana Summer Festival is held every summer on the beach at Nagasakibana Resort Campground. This summer festival is filled with events that both children and adults can enjoy. For the finale, a huge fireworks display of 2,000 fireworks lights up the night sky. [Video] 0:18 - Fireworks at Nagasakibana Summer Festival The Takada Tourism Bon Odori Competition (高田観光盆踊り大会, Takada Kanko Bon Odori Taikai) is an annual summer event in Bungotakada. However, in recent years it has been cancelled in order to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus. The event is so popular that there are more than 600 dancers, from children to adults, from schools and organizations in the city. The video shows people enjoying the Bon dances in a variety of costumes. [Video] 0:42 - The Bon Odori Competition at the Nagasakibana Summer Festival Horan Enya is an event to pray for a good catch of fish and aviation safety, and is a gallant event involving men of the sea. Young men in loincloths board boats decorated with large flags and shout out in joy as they sail from Kotohira-gu Shrine at the mouth of the Katsura River upstream to Wakamiya Shrine upstream. [Video] 1:49 - Horan Enya Wakamiya Shrine's autumn festival, held every year around November, is one of the Top 3 'Naked' Festivals in Japan and is a traditional event with a history dating back more than 900 years. Young men dressed in loincloths called "shimekomi," enter the Katsura River while carrying a portable shrine and carry it across to the other side of the river. The sound of drums, young men shouting, and the splashing of water are the highlights of the festival. [Video] 1:17 - Wakamiya Shrine's Autumn Festival Summary of Sightseeing in Bungotakada Photo：Zaru soba If you haven't already watched the video that shows the charms of Bungotakada, be sure to check it out! If you have a chance to visit Bungotakada in Oita Prefecture, we recommend trying one of the delicious dishes you can find there. That is, soba, a specialty of the city! Every year around June and November, you can taste freshly harvested soba at certified soba stores in Bungotakada. Kaimon Onsen, located in the city, is a famous hot spring that boasts some of the best spring water in Oita, a prefecture known for its hot springs. Enjoy the hot springs at a hotel near Kaimon Onsen and recover from the fatigue of your travels. 【Official Website】Bungotakada City Hall Website, Oita Prefecture http://www.city.bungotakada.oita.jp/ 【TripAdvisor】Bungotakada, Oita https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g1023439-Activities-Bungotakada_Oita_Prefecture_Kyushu.html

Video Introduction of "Wokuzure Suisenkyo" in Kyonan Town, Chiba Prefecture This video, titled [HD] Chiba Prefecture, Kyonan 'Okuzure Suisenkyo' Daffodil Garden | Famous Flower Spot in Peak Season" (［HD］千葉県・鋸南町「をくづれ水仙郷」Daffodil Garden　花の名所 花見頃), was uploaded by "Discover Nippon." Kyonan, located on the Boso Peninsula in Chiba prefecture, is home to two famous daffodil spots - Okuzure Suisenkyo, (lit. Okuzure Narcissus Township) and Ezuki Narcissus Road, (江月水仙ロード), earning it a place as one of the "Top 3 Daffodil Colonies in Japan." The name "Okuzure" (をくずれ, sometimes romanized as "wokuzure") uses an unconventional spelling and is said to come from a dialectical pronunciation of local place name "Okuzure" (大崩, おくずれ, romanized as "okuzure"). Okuzure Suisenkyo, is a colony of daffodils stretching from Sakuma Dam's lakeside to the Okuzure area. Nurtured by an abundance of natural light, the gorgeous sight of the pretty, white daffodils blooming along the river makes this a superb sightseeing location. Between late December and late January (the peak of the daffodil season) a yearly "Daffodil Festival" (水仙まつり, suisen matsuri) is held at Okuzure Suisenkyo, At night there are illuminations, giving the festival a different atmosphere compared to daytime. Be sure to take a look at the mystical scenes produced by the daffodils blooming along the lakeside in the video. [Video] 0:00 - Sakuma Dam Lakeside Area Daffodils What Makes Okuzure Suisenkyo, Special? When to Visit? Photo：Daffodils at Okuzure Suisenkyo The town of Kyonan in Chiba Prefecture is listed alongside Awaji Island (淡路島, awaji-shima) of Hyogo and Fukui's Echizen Coast (越前海岸, echizen kaigan) as one of the "Top 3 Daffodil Colonies in Japan." Encompassing around 2.2 kilometers of land, the space between Sakuma Dam and the Okuzure area is known as Okuzure Suisenkyo, and is best visited between late December and late January, when the area is covered in daffodils as far as the eye can see. With every rice paddy in the area being of the terraced variety, the embankments that make up this beautiful scenery and the slopes at the mountain's foot provide rich soil for some 60 million daffodils over a vast area of approximately 12 acres. During the peak season at Okuzure Suisenkyo, from mid-December to mid-January, a direct delivery service is offered to ship daffodils nationwide so that people can enjoy the elegant flowers and fragrance of daffodils at home. In January of each year, when the daffodils are at their best, Okuzure Suisenkyo, and Ezuki Narcissus Road play host to the Daffodil Festival, complete with illuminations. 　[Video] 0:00 - Sakuma Dam Lakeside Area Daffodils 　[Video] 2:07 - Sakuma Dam Lakeside Ezuki Narcissus Road, a Popular Hiking Trail + Daffodil Festival Illuminations, Events, and More! Source :YouTube screenshot Minamiboso is known for its warm climate, as expressed by an old saying "You don't need a single piece of underwear once you crest Mt. Nokogiri." Even during fierce winters with their westerly winds (westerlies in Japan bring cold air from Siberia over the country), thanks to a distribution of high pressures in the west and low pressure to the east inland, temperatures in the area remain relatively mild. Thanks to these weather conditions, daffodils from Kyonan are deeply scented and grow very tall. Okuzure Suisenkyo, and Ezuki Narcissus Road are popular daffodil spots in Kyonan. Okuzure Suisenkyo is a 2.2-km area stretching from the Sakuma Dam area to the Okuzure area. Ezuki Narcissus Road refers to a road in the Ezuki area fringed for 3 kilometers on both sides by daffodils. A 30–40 minute walk each direction, the road is a popular hiking trail. Enjoy a stroll accompanied by a lovely view and the welcoming scent of the daffodils blooming along the road. Each year in January, just as the daffodils begin to bloom, the Daffodil Festival is held at Okuzure Suisenkyo, and Ezuki Narcissus Road, attracting large numbers of tourists. During the daffodil festival a variety of activities are available, including "mochitsuki" (a Japanese tradition of pounding rice into a stretchy, sticky confection known as "mochi"), vegetable stores open, and events, such as stamp rallies, take place as well. At the shops lining the road, visitors can purchase daffodils in addition to the vegetables for sale. Sakuma Dam Park located on Ezuki Narcissus Road is the stage for a light show at night-time, and the daffodils appear to rise up out of the night, making for an ethereal spectacle. [Video] 1:47 - Daffodils and Illuminations Enjoy Cherry Blossoms in Spring at Sakuma Dam Lake Park Photo：Kawazu cherry blossoms at Sakuma Dam Lake Park Located on the shores of Sakuma Dam's reservoir lake, Sakuma Dam Lake Park (佐久間ダム湖親水公園, sakuma damuko shinsui koen) is known not only for its daffodils, but for its cherry blossoms too. Between early February and early March the Yoritomo cherry blossoms (also known as Kawazu sakura) bloom, followed by Yoshino cherries from late March to early April, and multi-layered cherry blossoms (八重桜, yae-zakura) from mid to late April, with a "Yoritomo Cherry Blossom Festival" (頼朝桜まつり, Yoritomo Sakura Matsuri) and "Cherry Blossom Festival" (桜まつり, Sakura Matsuri) being held accordingly. Be sure to enjoy mountain dyed pink by the beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. In the vicinity of Sakuma Dam, the daffodils start to bloom as early as December, and as the season comes to an end in February the early-blooming Yoritomo cherry blossoms begin to flower, making it possible to experience a rare duet of daffodils and cherry blossoms. You can enjoy flowers at Sakuma Dam Lake Park at their best from winter, when the daffodils bloom, right through the cherry blossom season in the spring. Okuzure Suisenkyo, Chiba Prefecture: Roundup The "Daffodil Festival," held at one of the "Top 3 Daffodil Colonies in Japan," Okuzure Suisenkyo, and Ezuki Narcissus Road, have highlights aplenty, offering not only gorgeous views of daffodils, but also illuminations, and a variety of other events. A field of daffodils stretching as far as the eye can see would make a pretty good phone background to keep as a reminder of this year's winter. Don't you think? 【TripAdvisor】Narcissus Road