Official Author

坂崎 なお（Nao Sakazaki）

PR Video of Japan Aviation Electronics Industry, Ltd This video titled “Company’s Promotion Video for JAE（日本航空電子工業株式会社・JAE・会社PRビデオ・プロモーションビデオ）” is the one to promote Japan Aviation Electronics Industry, Ltd, a manufacturer of electronic components and devices. There are many companies that manufacture high quality electronic components or devices in Japan. Let's explore the manufacturing technology and corporate philosophy of the Avionics Group, that boasts such advanced technology in the industry. This video features easy-to-understand information on advanced technologies or production engineering that the JAE group has. By watching this video, you'll get a better understanding of the many technologies incorporated into the electronic devices you use one a daily basis. What Kind of Company Is JAE? Source :YouTube screenshot JAE is an electronic components manufacturer in Shibuya, Tokyo. The average age of the company's employees is between 30 and 40 years old, and the company uses advanced technology to make a variety of electrical products such as connectors, user interface solutions (e.g. touch panels), motion sensors and controls. The Highly Advanced Manufacturing of JAE Source :YouTube screenshot JAE is involved in the manufacturing of many different types of electronic components not only for small information equipment such as mobile products or connectors, but also for automobiles, bullet trains, and aircrafts. You can see what kind of products they make in the footage (from 1:08). They are also engaged in the design and manufacturing of sophisticated electronic parts such as rockets and ocean exploration machines. That being said, JAE is highly contributing to society's infrastructure. Various Activities That JAE Is Working On Source :YouTube screenshot This video clip includes footage (from 5:45) of various activities related to environmental management. JAE promotes environmental conservation activities through afforestation and maintenance of forests to promote environmental management. In addition, the global network, introduced at 6:12 in the video, is the company's effort to promote development and production at a number of sites both in Japan and overseas. Summary of JAE's PR Video Source :YouTube screenshot As shown at 4:48 in the video, JAE aims to reform manufacturing through the manufacture of precision electronics products. Their high quality manufacturing, based on overwhelming technological development and production capabilities, will support Japan's future electronic technology. Through the video, we're shown that the products and vehicles that are now indispensable in our lives are made with the cutting-edge technology of companies like JAE. ◆Company Information of Japan Aviation Electronics Industry, Limited◆ 【Address】1-21-1 Dogenzaka Shibuya-ku Tokyo 150-0043 【Access】6 minutes from Shibuya Station off the JR Yamanote line by foot 【Telephone No.】03-3780-2711 【Official Website】Japan Aviation Electronics Industry, Limited https://www.jae.com/

The Night View of Kikuseidai This video, titled "Kobe's 10 Million Dollar Night View｜Time Lapse｜Kikuseidai｜Mt. Maya｜Timelapse｜One of Japan's Three Great Night Views" (神戸1000万ドル夜景 タイムラプス 掬星台 摩耶山 timelapse 日本三大夜景), was released by "STAR streamer YOSUKE." It introduces a superb view from the view point "Kikuseidai" in Kobe, Hyogo. The night view from Kikuseidai in Kobe, located in Japan's Kansai region, along with Mt. Hakodate in Hakodate City, Hokkaido, and Mt. Inasa in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture, is one of the three major night views in Japan. More About Kikuseidai Photo：Glittering path at Kikuseidai・Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture Kikuseidai, introduced in the video, is a view point located near the summit of Mt. Maya in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Kikuseidai is located at an altitude of 700m and there are attractions such as the Maya Nature Observation Garden, Hôtel de Maya, Mayasan Tenjoji Temple, and Lake Hodaka. In the promenade "Kirakira Komichi" at Kikuseidai, phosphorescent stones that can be recharged with ultraviolet rays from natural light and emit light, creating a fantastical atmosphere reminiscent of the Milky Way. There is also a restaurant on the mountain, so be sure to stop by for a bite to eat of you're hungry. Access to Kikuseidai Photo：Mt. Maya nightview・Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture Using the Maya Viewline is a convenient way to reach Kikuseidai. The ride from Maya Cable Station to Rainbow Station (虹の駅, Niji no Eki) takes about 5 minutes, and from there you transfer to the Maya Ropeway to reach Maya View Terrace 702, the "station of the stars." Kikuseidai is open 24 hours a day and is free of charge, so some people go out to see the sunrise as well as the night view. There's a parking lot on Mt. Maya as well, but be careful as the roads can get quite congested. Also, the road to Kikuseidai is closed to vehicles after a certain point, so you'll have to walk. Recommended Destinations in Kobe Photo：Night view of Kikuseidai・Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture Kobe is close to Kansai International Airport, and you can easily go sightseeing around the area via train or bus, making it a popular destination. In Kobe, you'll want to stop by not only Mt. Maya, where Kikuseidai is located, but also the Mt. Rokko Observatory and Rokko Island, where Emperor Hirohito visited. In addition, Sannomiya's Port Island is great for both sightseeing and shopping. You can see the beautiful night view of Port Island from 1:17 in the video. If you purchase a "Rokko / Maya 1-day ticket" at the "Kobe Information Center" you can enjoy sightseeing in Kobe even more. Summary of Kikuseidai in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture Photo：Night view of Kikuseidai・Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture As the name suggests, you can enjoy the spectacular view at Kikuseidai, as if you were scooping the stars into your own hands (掬星台, lit. "star scooping pedastal"). The night view of Kikuseidai, which overlooks the city of Kobe when facing Osaka, is also called a "10 million dollar night view." Head over to Kobe to enjoy one of Japan's many beautiful night views! 【Tripadvisor】Mt. Maya https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g298562-d1384609-r500562432-Mt_Maya-Kobe_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Video introduction of "Tsurugi Shrine" in Niu-gun, Fukui Prefecture This video, titled "[Echizen] Tsurugi Shrine: the birthplace of the Oda family - Tsurugi Shrine, Fukui, JAPAN-" (【越前国二宮】劔神社／織田家発祥の地 -TsurugiI Jinja Shrine in Fukui, JAPAN–), was released by "channel WASABI." Tsurugi Shrine, also known as "Oda Myojin," is located in Echizen, Nyu District, Fukui Prefecture. The area is known as the birthplace of the Oda family, including the famous warlord Oda Nobunaga, and the shrine is highly revered as an "Ujigami.” The History of Tsurugi Shrine Source :YouTube screenshot The origin of Tsurugi Shrine, with a history dating back 1,800 years, goes back to when the god Susanoo was enshrined on the peak of Kuragatake and called "Tsurugidaijin" (劔大神, The Great God of Tsurugi). During the Nara Period (710-794 A.D.), when the shrine was known as a sacred site, Tsurugi Temple (劔神宮寺) was already built. It is also said that the shrine, which enshrines Susanoo-no-Mikoto (素盞嗚大神) and Kehi (氣比大神), was handed over to Prince Oshikuma, the son of Emperor Chuai, during the reign of Empress Jingu. After the Warring States Period (1467-1615 AD~), Tsurugi Shrine was protected and worshipped by the Shiba, Asakura, and Oda clans. The sacred crest of Tsurugi Shrine, which is closely connected to Oda Nobunaga, is the same as the family crest of the Oda family: the Oda Mokko (Flowering quince). Highlights of Tsurugi Shrine Source :YouTube screenshot The temple bell, a national treasure, is the third oldest bell in Japan and is said to have been made in the Nara Period. It is also home to many other temple treasures, including the important cultural property "The Eight Stages of Nirvana on Silk." In the video, you can see the large torii gate, Shinyoko (旧神前院摩堂, a storehouse for portable shrines), the Chozusha (a ritual water station for purifying oneself), and the Hall of Worship (拝殿, haiden) starting at 0:58, as well as the Omokaru Stone (おもかる石, a sacred wishing stone. It is said that if it’s lighter than you expect then your wish will come true. If it is heavier, it will be harder for your wish to come true.) at Komatsutate Isaoshi Shrine (小松建勲神社) and Yakushi Shrine (薬師神社) starting at 3:05 in the video. On the premises of Tsurugi Shrine, we recommend paying attention to the approach to the shrine, as well as checking the monument to the birthplace of the Oda clan, and more. Another attraction of Tsurugi Shrine is that you can enjoy the seasonal scenery, such as the Asian fawnlily that grow in clusters on the shrine grounds. During Hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the New Year) at Tsurugi Shrine, the shrine is also crowded with visitors. Summary of Tsurugi Shrine Source :YouTube screenshot Tsurugi Shrine is a famous power spot with 1,800 years of history and offers breathtaking views, as shown in the video. If you're looking to enjoy a wonderful time at a shrine with a rich history to cleanse both your body and mind, consider adding Tsurugi Shrine to your Itinerary. We recommend bringing your own shuin stamp book when you visit Tsurugi Shrine. Be sure to get a good luck charm as well! ◆Tsurugi Shrine Overview◆ 【Address】113-1 Ota, Echizen, Nyu District, Fukui 916-0215 【Access】Take a bus from JR Takefu Station and get off at the Myojin-mae bus stop, or 30 minutes by car from the Takefu I.C. or Sabae I.C. 【Hours】8:00 – 17:00 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】0778-36-0404 【Tripadvisor】Tsurugi Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023595-d10556800-Reviews-Tsurugi_Shrine-Miyoshi_Tokushima_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

Kashojuan Longevity Village, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan Video Introduction This video, titled "Kanou Shoujuan Sunai no Sato Tea Ceremony - Shiga - 叶匠寿庵 寿長生の郷," was released by "Tokyo Street View --Japan The Beautiful." It introduces the popular tourist attraction Kanou Shoujuan (叶匠寿庵) in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, in Japan's Kansai region. Kano Shoujuan is the perfect place to visit for those looking to try the finest tea and sweets that Japan has to offer. Visit Kanou Shoujuan for spectacular views of Japan and to experience traditional Japanese culture. Kano Shoujuan - A Japanese Sweets Shop That Has Been Loved In Japan For Many Years Source :YouTube screenshot Kanou Shoujuan is a famous Japanese sweets shop with stores in department stores across Japan. Its head office is located in the suburbs of the Otsu area, south of Lake Biwa. Camellias, cherry blossoms, and hydrangeas can be found blooming around Sunai no Sato, and trees such as oaks and chestnut trees are also grown to create a beautiful view. In the plum grove on the grounds of Kanou Shoujuan, a plum festival is held in the spring when the weather is nice, and a plum picking event is held in the early summer when the plums bear fruit. You can see the exterior of Kano Shoujuan from 0:37 in the video. Beautiful Japanese Sweets Made in a Traditional Japanese Building Source :YouTube screenshot The building "Omukae-dokoro" on the grounds of Kanou Shoujuan is a quaint-looking Japanese building with a hearth inside to help visitors feel the traditional culture of Japan. The Japanese confectionery workshop "Santokuen" is characterized by a traditional Sukiya-zukuri style architecture. Many beautiful Japanese sweets are produced in a natural environment surrounded by beautiful gardens. Kanou Shoujuan - Experience Traditional Japanese Culture Source :YouTube screenshot At Kanou Shoujuan you can experience the joy of making Japanese sweets and papermaking, through which you can feel the traditional culture of Japan. In the tea room "Seikankyo," you can also experience traditional Japanese tea ceremony, one aspect of Japanese culture that dates back nearly a thousand years. This can be seen from 3:21 in the video. There are also limited time experience-based events, so we recommend checking out any information regarding these before deciding on your trip. Gourmet Spots in Sunai no Sato! Photo：kaiseki cuisine After enjoying a walk and experiences at "Kano Shoujuan," we recommend trying the beautiful, delicious kaiseki cuisine. At the restaurant "Sanju-tei," you can enjoy a blissful time with a meal that incorporates the seasonal flavors of Omi. We also recommend visiting "Irori Sabo" and trying the superb shaved ice, made with natural ice. Summary of Sunai no Sato Source :YouTube screenshot Kanou Shoujuan Sunai no Sato is a hidden tourist destination where you can enjoy traditional culture in a quaint atmosphere. If you're looking to go sightseeing, consider dropping by Kano Shoujuan・Sunai no Sato to enjoy the beautiful scenery of ancient Japan. 【Tripadvisor】 Sunai no Sato https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298202-d1653996-Reviews-Sunainosato-Otsu_Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Restoring Old Graters to their Former Glory This video, titled "The Fascinating Repairmen. #009 'Graters'" was uploaded by "Togepi1125." It shows a Japanese craftsman repairing graters. You can see the graters made from an ancient Japanese copper plate in the video. Copper graters have been used since the Edo period (1603-1868). It's said that a copper grater is an item that can last a lifetime if properly taken care, but it can also become damaged if used continuously. A grater repairman is an expert who uses manual techniques to repair tools in a workplace filled with many machines. Making Worn-Out Graters Look Like New - Techniques of a Grater Repairman Source :YouTube screenshot The video introduces Takashi Teshigawara, the repairman at Kosuge, a hardware workshop in Tokyo, from 0:38. He has over 56 years of experience as a craftsman, and his skillful techniques can make damaged copper graters shine like new. Although the teeth on the surface of the grater are called eyes, repairing a grater is called re-toothing. Copper is a material that is easily affected by oxidation and other factors, so the edges of eyes become damaged over time. A skilled repairman can repair the damaged eyes using all kinds of techniques. The Repair Process of Graters Source :YouTube screenshot First, boil the old rusty grater, polish it properly, getting rid of stains left behind by radishes, ginger, wasabi, and any other vegetables. This process can be seen from 3:06 in the video. Next, the copper part of the grater is tapped with a hammer and roasted over fire to polish its surface. At last, a chisel is used to clean and sharpen the eyes of the grater. It takes a lot of time to clean and sharpen the flattened grater eyes. Through these techniques even the most worn-out graters will look like new. The finished grater can be seen from 7:37 in the video. Summary of Japan's Grater Repairmen Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see in the video, many Japanese tools have been repeatedly repaired by craftsman and used for many years. There are many artisans with expert skills who can repair various types of tools to the point that they look brand new. Check out the video to see the amazing work of one craftsman doing just that.

Introducing the Tatami Craftsmen of Matsuya Tatami Shop! This video, titled "Nippon Handicraft Encyclopedia - Matsuya Tatami Shop" (ニッポン手仕事図鑑 × 松屋畳店), was released by "Nippon Handicraft Encyclopedia" (ニッポン手仕事図鑑). The video shows the craftsmen of Matsuya Tatami Shop, a long-established tatami store with a long history dating back to the Genroku Period, reupholstering tatami mats. The craftsmen that are introduced in the video are Tomoki Okawa, an 11th generation craftsman of Matsuya Tatami Shop in Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture, and his father, Masao Okawa, the 10th generation craftsman of the establishment. You can see Tomoki Okawa from 0:54 and Masao Okawa from 2:15 in the video. What Are Japan's Tatami Mats? Photo：The main material of tatami, Igusa The tatami mat is a traditional flooring in Japan and its main material is rush which is grown by farmers. Tatami craftsmen knit together domestic, high-quality rush grass using methods that have been handed down since ancient times, and after laying it on a board, sew on the edges. The size of Japanese tatami mats is fixed, and the tatami mats created by the craftsmen fit perfectly on the floor of Japanese-style rooms like puzzle pieces. Among those with skills like the craftsmen of Matsuya Tatami Shop introduced in the video, some craftsmen are qualified as First-Class Tatami Technicians. If you want to change out your Japanese tatami mats, it's best to leave the whole process of tatami mat construction to craftsmanship professionals, such as Matsuya Tatami Shop introduced in the video. A Look at the Effects and Benefits of Japanese Tatami Mats Source :YouTube screenshot The effects and benefits of Japanese tatami mats include antibacterial properties, air purification, heat insulation, and humidity management. The fact that tatami, which is cool in summer and warm in winter, has been used since ancient times is a testament to the wisdom of the Japanese people. Also, the Japanese tatami mat has moderate elasticity and so it can be expected to absorb sounds or vibrations. Furthermore, Japanese tatami mats are made from naturally derived ingredients, so it also provides a soothing effect similar to the outdoors. Another good thing about tatami mats is that if you're careful when cleaning them and take proper care of them, they can be used for a long time. Get Acquainted With Japanese Tatami Source :YouTube screenshot For those who don't have a Japanese-style room, we recommend trying some handicrafts made out of tatami to get an idea of what it's like. Japanese tatami accessories, such as tatami book covers and card cases seen at 9:41 of the video, are sold on the internet for reasonable prices. Summary of Matsuya Tatami Shop Source :YouTube screenshot The video showcases the allure of traditional Japanese tatami while introducing Matsuya Tatami Shop. Many years have passed since the prosperous days of traditional Japanese tatami culture, and in recent years, the number of houses without Japanese-style rooms is increasing. That being said, recently, Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats are being re-evaluated. If you're planning on building a house, consider using tatami mats that have a wide range of benefits!

Introducing Iwamizawa, Hokkaido! This video, titled "PR Movie of Iwamizawa / IWAMIZAWA TRIP ～digest～" (岩見沢観光PRムービー / IWAMIZAWA TRIP ～digest～), was uploaded by "Iwamizawa Tourism Association Official Channel" (岩見沢市観光協会 公式チャンネル). It introduces Iwamizawa in Hokkaido. Iwamizawa is located in central Hokkaido and it was once one of the 12 railroad towns in Japan which were officially designated as such by the former Japanese National Railway. There are tourist spots where you can enjoy an extraordinary atmosphere, including wineries and log cottages. Enjoy the attractions of Iwamizawa, Hokkaido in this video. Iwamizawa Is Brimming With Natural Scenery Source :YouTube screenshot Hokkaido is often visited by people seeking natural landscapes. One view we recommend seeing while in Iwamizawa is Hokkaido Greenland. Here, you'll find a popular garden with 8,800 roses of around 630 varieties. They can be enjoyed from late June to mid-October. You should stop by the rose garden, observatory and the hill of beach roses in Iwamizawa Park, which can be seen at 2:40 in the video, and Iwamizawa Shrine which is shown from 1:57. Places to Grab a Bite to Eat Around Iwamizawa, Hokkaido Source :YouTube screenshot We recommend trying the famous Tengu Manju and soft serve ice cream. Of course, ramen from Hokkaido is some of the best you'll find in Japan. At Hosui Winery, wine is made from grapes grown in a rich natural environment which can be seen from 0:16 in the video. Recommended Hotels in Iwamizawa, Hokkaido Source :YouTube screenshot "LOGHOTEL THE MAPLELODGE," "Little Rock Hills," and "Silver Pine" are all places we highly recommend. These can be seen from 0:54 in the video. What better way to relax than creating lifelong memories next to a fireplace in a special cottage. There are also camp sites and Japanese inns with natural outdoor hot springs and spas in Iwamizawa, Hokkaido. Enjoy Events in Iwamizawa, Hokkaido! Source :YouTube screenshot We recommend throwing on a yukata and heading out to the annual Furusato Hyappei Festival (ふるさと百餅祭り) held in Iwamizawa, Hokkaido, as shown at 3:01 in the video. During the festival, mochi pounding is done with a massive mortar and mallet, using rice from Iwamizawa. At the end of the festival, mochi is thrown to commemorate the longevity of the people. Summary of Iwamizawa, Hokkaido Source :YouTube screenshot There are a lot of photogenic places with natural scenery in Iwamizawa, Hokkaido. Consider booking a comfortable cottage like the one in the video and enjoying a relaxing tour of the popular Iwamizawa. 【Official Website】Iwamizawa City, Hokkaido City Hall Website https://www.city.iwamizawa.hokkaido.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Iwamizawa City https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1122374-Iwamizawa_Hokkaido-Vacations.html

Video introduction of "Sado Gold Mine" in Sado City, Niigata Prefecture This video, titled "Sado Gold and Silver Mine Promotion Video SADO GOLD & SILVER MINES For all Tourists" (佐渡金銀山のプロモーション動画「SADO GOLD & SILVER MINES For all Tourists」), was created by "Sado City Hall" (佐渡市役所). The video introduces the Sado Gold and Silver Mines located on Sado Island (佐渡島), Niigata prefecture. The mines, which were discovered in 1601 by three prospectors and mined for 400 years, were the biggest gold and silver mines in Japan. These beautiful and ancient remains with surroundings abundant in nature are likely to be added to the long list of World Heritage Sites in Japan. More About the Sado Gold and Silver Mines Photo：Sado Gold Mine, Niigata Prefecture Gold mining in the Sado Gold and Silver Mines in Niigata prefecture once flourished and became famous for the production of koban (gold coins used in the Edo period) and gold bars, however the gold resources have significantly dried up since then. The Sado Gold Mines were developed during the Sengoku period (1467AD-1615AD) (戦国時代) and in 1601 became the property of Tokugawa Ieyasu (徳川家康). That same year, gold was also discovered in Kitayama (北山) and the Sado Gold Mines became an important source of funds for the Tokugawa Shogunate (江戸幕府). Aikawa Gold and Silver Mine (相川金銀山), the largest of all the Sado Gold Mines, has been designated a national historic site, Important Cultural Property (重要文化財), and an Important Cultural Landscape (重要文化的景観) of Japan. Highlights of the Sado Gold and Silver Mines Photo：Sado Gold and Silver Mine, Niigata Prefecture Many historic sites, such as the crushing mill "Hasaiba" (破砕場), the stamp mill "Tokoba-ato" (搗鉱場跡) from the Meiji period (1868 AD-1912 AD), "Doyunowareto" (道遊の割戸), which was blown open by dynamite, as well as various shafts, mining, and smelting facilities, remain to this day. "Kitazawafuyusen Kouba-ato" (北沢浮遊選鉱場), one of the Sado Gold Mine remains, has a characteristic appearance similar to that of ancient Rome's Colosseum. This area is particularly popular among fans of Studio Ghibli's "Laputa: Castle in the Sky" who are looking for the perfect shot to share on Instagram! Take a Trip to the Sado Gold Mines! Photo：Sado Magistrate's Office, Niigata Prefecture There are lots of spots nearby worth visiting, such as the remains of the old shopping district "Kyomachi-dori" (京町通り) and the Sado Magistrate's Office (佐渡奉行所). There are also several events held throughout the year, such as "Kouzan Matsuri" (鉱山祭り) held in late-July and "Mushukunin Kuyousai" (無宿人供養祭) held on the third Sunday in April. If you want to grab a bite to eat, we highly recommend trying the gold-leaf soft serve ice cream, or if you're looking for something savory, consider trying the curry or udon dishes served at "Kinzan Chaya" (金山茶屋) at the foot of the mountain. There are several sightseeing courses available at the Sado Gold Mines with which you can view some of the natural tunnels or historic ruins. You can also take part in a gold mining experience in the museum workshop or make some gold-leaf jewelry to take home as a souvenir! Summary of the Sado Gold Mines Introductory Video Photo：Sado Mine, Niigata Prefecture We hope you enjoyed taking a look at the stunning landscape of the Sado Gold Mines, such as the remains of the mines and the beautiful night view introduced in the video. Before setting off on your trip to the popular sightseeing spot that is Sado Island in Niigata prefecture, be sure to check opening times and access information for the Sado Gold Mines to make the most of your visit! 【Tripadvisor】Sado Gold Mines https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1021355-d1385038-r312515994-Historic_Relic_Sado_Gold_Mine-Sado_Niigata_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html

Check out This Video Introducing Uetsu Shinafu, a Traditional Japanese Crafts! This video, titled "Handmade Crafts "Uetsu Shinafu Weaving" / Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square," introduces uetsu shinafu. The video was uploaded by Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square. Uetsu shinafu fabric is the oldest fabric in Japan woven using tree bark fibers. They were first created during the Jomon period (14,000 BC to 400 BC), and are counted as one of Japan's Three Ancient Woven Fabrics. Today, uetsu shinafu is produced in Tsuruoka, Yamagata Prefecture, the Sekigawa District of Uzen, as well as Murakami, Niigata Prefecture. In 2005, these uetsu shinafu products were designated Traditional Crafts by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Information. In this video, the production process of uetsu shinafu is introduced in detail. Do enjoy this video showing a tradition of Japan from days past. What Is Uetsu Shinafu? Introducing the Production Process and Methods Used to Make Them Source :YouTube screenshot The raw material of uetsu shinafu is bark derived from the Japanese Linden Tree, as shown from 0:33 in the video, with other sources being the bark of the, tilia maximowicziana, as well as the tilia noziricola. Firstly, the bark is peeled and dried, then boiled in water containing wood ash. Next, as shown in the video, the fibers are scrubbed in a river then dried once more. Following that, the fibers are shredded by hand into thin threads in a process called shinasaki. These threads are then joined to form one long thread in a process called shinaumi. Then, the threads are twisted into a spool and called shinayori . The skill of the craftsman is critical in this entire process, as it is all done by hand. Lastly, the threads are placed on a platform known as the uttate, and the threads are then reeled (3:26). Finally, the threads are woven into a piece of fabric. Where Can You Purchase Uetsu Shinafu Products? Source :YouTube screenshot From 4:19 in the video, works created using uetsu shinafu fabric are introduced. Different kinds of bags, decorative items such as tapestries, name card holders, wallets, obi sashes, hats, fabric dividers – there is a wide variety of products. Besides tourist areas in Yamagata Prefecture, uetsu shinafu products can also be purchased through mail order. As for those who would like to try their hand at uetsu shinafu, the Uetsu Shinafu Promotion Council (振興協議会), the Shinaori Center (織センター), or Sekigawa Shinaori Village (関川しな織の里ぬくもり館) are all places you can visit. Summary of Uetsu Shinafu Source :YouTube screenshot Uetsu shinafu: exquisite works of art with a pleasant texture. Isn’t it unbelievable that its origins date back to the Jomon period thousands of years ago? As shown in the video, uetsu shinafu fabric is created through a complicated process, with the craftsmen ensuring that every single step is done to the best of their ability. Thus, uetsu shinafu products can be used for a long time. If this video has you interested in uetsu shinafu, do take the opportunity to purchase an uetsu shinafu product or try an uetsu shinafu experience in Japan! 【Official Website】Uetsu Shinafu Promotion Council Yamagata Prefecture-Tsuruoka City・Niigata Prefecture-Murakami City, Ancient Fabrics Village http://shinafu.jp/

What is Yuki Tsumugi? This video was created by "Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square." It's titled "TEWAZA Yuki Tsugumi Textile" (手技TEWAZA「結城紬」Yuki Tsumugi Textile), and it introduces how the traditional Kimono "Yuki Tsumugi" is made. Yuki Tsumugi kimono are known as a high-quality Japanese textile. It is mainly produced in the Kanto region, in places like Ibaraki Prefecture and Tochigi Prefecture. This high quality textile is made of pure silk, a fabric loved by customers due to its softness and how light it is. There are many different designs as well, from simple plain designs, to elegant patterns requiring an incredibly skilled artisan. Being made from natural materials, Yuki Tsumugi kimono are incredibly comfortable and keep you warm even during the colder months of the year. This video shows viewers how Yuki Tsumugi kimono are made. The skilled techniques of the craftsman are also shown in the video; be sure to follow along! The Traditional Craft, Yuki Tsumugi: History Source :YouTube screenshot The origin of Yuki Tsumugi kimono dates back more than 1,300 years. By the Nara period (710-794), Yuki Tsumugi kimono were already being given as gifts to the imperial court as a specialty of the Hitachi Province (current day Ibaraki). Some of the original Yuki Tsumugi kimono are still safely kept at the Shosoin Repository in Nara. In the Muromachi (1336-1573) and Edo Periods (1603-1868), the tradition of Yuki Tsumugi was protected, cultivated and passed on as tradition by the Yuki family. Yuki Tsumugi was also registered as an Important Intangible Cultural Property in 1956 and as a traditional craft in 1977. The Traditional Craft, Yuki Tsumugi: How It's Made Source :YouTube screenshot In Ibaraki and Tochigi prefectures, the home of Yuki Tsumugi kimono, silk has been used for hand woven textiles since ancient times. 1. Silk Floss Making (0:30) 2. Hand-spinning (1:27) Hand-spun yarns are spun from a material called true cotton, which is made by gently boiling silkworm cocoons. This is what is so special about Yuki Tsumugi. In the video at 0:53, one of the Yuki Tsumugi craftsmen explains that a single layer of kimono is made using 2200 cocoons, and the total length of the silk yarn is 30 km (nearly 10,000 ft). 3. Tying yarn to make patterns (1:53) The part tied with a thread will remain undyed and will be left as a pattern. 4. Dyeing yarns by beating (2:35) Beating the silk in this way allows the dye to sink into the fabric more deeply. 5. Hand weaving (3:12) The crucial component here is waist strength, as this will determine the texture of the final product. The threads are woven tens of thousands of times to create beautiful patterns. Purchasing the high quality Yuki Tsumugi Yuki Tsumugi kimono and obi have a quality unlike any other textile and are very popular items. Not only brand new Yuki Tsumugi, but also used Yuki Tsumugi kimono can be quite expensive. An official Yuki Tsumugi kimono comes with a certification stamp with a design of a woman hand spinning using silk cocoons. If you're not sure whether you're buying the correct item, check the certificate stamp and you'll know whether it's a luxury Yuki Tsumugi kimono or not. The Traditional Craft, Yuki Tsumugi: Summary Photo：A Woman in Kimono In Japan, the beautiful culture of kimono has been around since ancient times. What you see in the video is one of the most expensive and popular kimono, Yuki Tsumugi. It's very rare to see actual footage of how Yuki Tsumugi kimono are made. If you're interested in learning more about kimono, be sure to visit Japan and try on a high quality Yuki Tsumugi kimono! 【Official Website】Honba Yuki Tsumugi, Okujun Co.,Ltd. http://www.okujun.co.jp/english/ 【Official Website】Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/