Official Author

坂崎 なお（Nao Sakazaki）

Introduction of video taken at night at Senso-ji Temple in Taito-ku, Tokyo. This video, titled "Asakusa Senso-Ji Temple by Night --Sensoji --4K Ultra HD" released by "Tokyo Street View --Japan The Beautiful," introduces Sensoji Temple, a famous tourist destination in Japan, at night. Sensoji Temple, one of the most famous sightseeing destinations in Tokyo, is crowded with many tourists during the day. However, at night, Kaminarimon Gate and Nakamise-dori Street, two places that are representative of Sensoji Temple, are quiet and free of crowds. The quiet Nakamise-dori, can be seen at 0:54 in the video with relatively few visitors walking by. Take a closer look at the video and enjoy the fantastic atmosphere of Nakamise-dori and the beauty of Japanese temple architecture. A Closer Look at Sensoji Temple, a Famous Tourist Destination in Asakusa, Tokyo Photo：Sensoji Temple and Women Sensoji Temple is located in Asakusa, Taito, Tokyo. Sensoji Temple, a temple with ancient roots, having been built in the Heian period (794-1185), is also called "Asakusa Kannon" and is the oldest temple in Tokyo, attracting many tourists who visit for worship and sightseeing. During events at Sensoji Temple, such as Hatsumode, Osame-no-Kannon Goennichi, Shiman-rokusen-nichi, and Asakusa Shrine's Sanja Matsuri, it is especially crowded with visitors coming to worship. If you visit the Sensoji Temple, which is said to be blessed with the power to fulfill your heart's desires, be sure to get a shuin stamp to commemorate your visit. Also, don't forget to draw a rare Omikuji (fortune slip) of which 30% is said to contain unlucky fortunes! Overview of the Buildings on the Grounds of Sensoji Temple! Photo：Kaminarimon Gate in Asakusa, Tokyo At Sensoji Temple, you'll find the famous, large lantern of Kaminarimon Gate that is used for many Instagram photos. This can be seen at the beginning of the video. Don't miss the powerful gods of wind and thunder that are enshrined on the left and right sides of Kaminarimon Gate as well. After passing through Kaminarimon gate, you'll find the spacious Nakamise-dori, where you can eat gourmet food found only in Asakusa, such as buns and ningyo-yaki. If you enjoy finding gourmet food that can only be eaten in certain places then this is sure to be an unforgettable memory. Hozomon Gate, the Main Hall, and the five-storied pagoda, seen from 1:27 after the footage of Nakamise, are lit up in different seasons, creating mystical landscapes. In addition, be sure to check out Nitenmon Gate, Denboin, and Yogodo in the precincts. Summary of Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo Photo：Sensoji Temple at night Although general temples and shrines in Japan have fixed visiting hours, you can enter the grounds of Sensoji Temple even at night. Sensoji Temple is easily accessible from the station, so we recommend stopping by Sensoji Temple at night after a day of sightseeing in Tokyo. When visiting Japan, be sure to enjoy the mystical scenery of the temple, as shown in the video! 【Official Website】Kannon Sect Asakusa Kannon Sensoji Temple Official Website https://www.senso-ji.jp/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Sensoji Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14134311-d320447-Reviews-Senso_ji_Temple-Asakusa_Taito_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

About the Fukushima Oze Introductory Video This video, titled "OZE.jp Fukushima Oze PR Movie," was released by "PrefFukushima." "Fukushima Oze," introduced in the video, is the nickname for the route and area leading to Oze from the Fukushima Prefecture side. Oze National Park is a vast area of natural marshlands that spans four prefectures: Fukushima prefecture, Gunma prefecture, Niigata prefecture, and Tochigi prefecture. Oze is famous for Ozegahara, a marshland on the Gunma side, but the route that enters Oze from the Fukushima prefecture side is called Fukushima Oze, and it has also been gaining popularity as a sightseeing route full of natural scenery. In this video, you can see two women trekking the mountain while traveling around Fukushima Oze. Hiking at Fukushima Oze Photo：Lake Ozenuma, Fukushima Prefecture Walking along the promenade of Fukushima Oze Route, you can enjoy the natural scenery of Japan's four seasons. Take a shuttle bus to Numayama Pass, the starting point of the Oze Route, and then proceed to the Oe Marsh, which can be seen from 1:15 in the video. You'll also find seasonal alpine plants, such as skunk cabbage and day lilies, blooming in the Oze Highlands and around Lake Ozenuma in the spring, creating a magnificent view, as shown at 0:51 in the video. Sightseeing Locations at Fukushima Oze Photo：Ozegahara seen from Hiuchigatake, Fukushima Prefecture There is a fishing pond full of char in Hinoemata, a village where you can enjoy fishing surrounded by nature. We definitely recommend stopping by Sanjo Falls, one of the Top 100 Waterfalls in Japan. In Oze, be sure to drop by famous places, such as Hashiba no Banba and Seirou-zukuri Itakura (セイロウ造り板倉), a famous place in Nushiri-daira. Hinoemata Shrine also has a stage where you can see traditional Hinoemata Kabuki. The area around Hiuchigatake, one of the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains​, that can be seen from 1:34 in the video, is another recommended sightseeing route. Visit the summit of Hiuchigatake from Lake Miike via Hirosawa Tashiro and Kumazawa Tashiro. After sightseeing in Oze, you can head over to Hiuchi no Yu (燧の湯), a hot spring at the foot of Mt. Hiuchigatake. There is also an open-air outdoors bath, so you can spend an excellent time bathing while gazing at the vast nature. Events and Gourmet Food in Oze Photo：Shrine at Mini Oze Park, Fukushima Prefecture The "Fukushima Oze-Hinoemata Mountain Festival" is held every year at Fukushima Oze. There are hiking tours, outdoor events, stage shows and workshops, and markets where you can shop for outdoor goods, so we recommend lining up your trip to visit Fukushima Oze at the time of this event. If you're looking to enjoy delicious food in Oze, we recommend Aizu's famous mountain dish, "Tachi-soba." At Mini Oze Park, you can buy a mysterious dessert called "salamander gelato" (サンショウウオジェラート). Summary of Fukushima Oze Photo：Fukushima Oze, Fukushima Prefecture Oze, with its abundance of nature, is closed in the winter due to the cold weather, but is a great tourist attraction for hiking in the warmer months. In addition to beautiful natural spots like the ones shown in the video, there are also spots where you can enjoy traditional performing arts and local cuisine, so be sure to check it out!

A Video Comparing Past and Present Tokyo! This video, titled "[Tokyo Tokyo Concept Video] Old meets New - Full version," was released by "Tokyo Tokyo." The video introduces and compares the past and present culture of Tokyo in a comical manner. The one-minute video is packed with many elements, including the historical culture of Japan, current pop culture, and subculture. If you're interested in Japanese culture, be sure to check out this video to compare past and present of Tokyo. Look Out for Information on the History and Culture of the Edo Period! Photo：Image of 36 Views of Mount Fuji In Tokyo, where the shogunate was established during the Edo period (1603-1868), Japan's unique culture continuously flourished. Kimono and traditional crafts, Kabuki and Noh, and traditional performing arts such as ikebana and tea ceremony have been loved for hundreds of years. In addition, Japanese food, such as sushi, developed greatly as a historical gourmet food favored by the common people in the Edo period. Ukiyo-e and Japanese paintings are the art of the Edo period. Japanese paintings drawn with a unique touch are still attracting attention from many history and art fans. The Contemporary Culture of Tokyo Introduced in the Video Photo：Cosplay Over many years new Japanese cultures continue to be born one after another in present day Tokyo. Particularly noteworthy is Japan's pop culture and subcultures, which have developed mainly among young people. The interesting culture unique to Tokyo, such as video games, special effects movies, idols and cosplay events, etc., is attracting a lot of attention not only from within Japan but also from abroad. In the video, there's Kendo and modern video games shown from 0:12, Maneki Neko and Hello Kitty from 0:24, and things like kaiju and Giant Robots, Ukiyo-e and Hatsune Miku, Noh and Kyari Pamyu Pamyu, etc. are compared with the past and introduced as contemporary culture. The video also introduces recommended gourmet foods to eat in present-day Tokyo. From 0:10 in the video, rice balls and the cute Kyaraben (character bentos), soba and tsukemen, and sushi and other Japanese cuisine is shown. There are many famous restaurants in Tokyo where you can enjoy mouthwatering ramen, so we recommend finding your favorite restaurant. Besides that, we recommend checking out popular foods like cotton candy and tapioca drinks that can be eaten at sightseeing spots, such as Harajuku. Summary of the Past and Present Tokyo Shown in the Video Photo：Downtown Tokyo from above This article introduced an interesting video that unravels the history of Tokyo. Lifestyles and cultures have changed drastically in Japan and unique cultures that were unthinkable a decade ago continue to be born. Suffice it to say, culture evolves alongside history. In the future, new cultures will continue to flourish in Tokyo.

Video introduction of "Basketball Street" in Shibuya Center Street, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo This article focuses on one of the landmarks of Shibuya, "Basketball street"（渋谷の象徴的な通り”バスケットボールストリート”に着目。渋谷駅前交差点からセンター街を散策）. The 4K video navigates us through the famous pedestrian walkway starting from Shibuya Scramble. Shibuya features many shopping attractions such as Inokashira street, Bunkamura street or the Dougenzaka area which is always crammed with people, from shoppers, to teenagers, to tourists. Among them, Basketball street is the central hub for the teenage fashion culture known as "Shibuya Kei"(loosely translated as Shibuya style). The Features of Shibuya Center-Gai Basketball Street Photo：Shibuya Center Street Main Street Shibuya Center-gai Basketball street is a shopping street located in Udagawacho, Shibuya. Walking across the Shibuya Scramble after passing through the hustle and bustle of Shibuya Station Hachiko Exit, you are greeted by the entrance archway of Center-gai Basketball street. In 2011, the main street of Shibuya Center-gai was renamed to Basketball street as part of public safety improvement efforts. The main reason of the name change was to refresh the stereotype associated with the area where juvenile delinquents (known as "Teamer" or "Ganguro") used to roam around in groups. The new name reflects the local aim to develop an ideal, healthy hangout for the youth. The name, however, hasn't really taken off even among Japanese people yet. How to Enjoy Shibuya Center-Gai Basketball Street Photo：109 Shibuya Center-gai Basketball street is probably the busiest street in Japan. Many fashion department stores are lined up in the neighborhood, such as 109, Seibu Department Store, Parco and Tokyu hands. The street consists of a strange mix of shops like fast-food restaurants such as McDonald's, eateries including the ones specialized in ramen or bubble tea, big record stores like TSUTAYA, and entertainment spots catering to teenagers like arcades or photo booth machine stores (known as purikura machines). The Shibuya Scramble appears at the beginning of the video, and from 0:47, viewers are taken to Shibuya Center-gai Basketball street that runs between TSUTAYA and Taiseido Bookstore. Although 9 years has passed since the street was renamed, the entrance archway sign in the video still displays the old name, "Shibuya Center-gai". The video takes for a ride through the lively street. Events at Shibuya Center-Gai Basketball Street! Photo：Watching soccer Shibuya Center-gai Basketball street is filled with energy at the time of event such as Halloween, the New Year Countdown, or during big international sports event such as the World Cup. Some local events like Shibuya Center-gai Nebuta Festival also liven up the area. These events often generate a large amount waste. The local association maintains a clean district through its beautification efforts. The Summary of the Video Introduction of Shibuya Center-Gai Basketball Street Photo：Shibuya Scramble intersection The video introduced in this article portrays the liveliness of Shibuya Center-gai Basketball street. You can explore every corner of the street captured in the video and walk down the streets of Shibuya during your next visit to Japan! 【Tripadvisor】Shibuya Scramble https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066456-d4403399-Reviews-Shibuya_Crossing-Shibuya_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Sightseeing Destinations and Popular Attractions in Hiroshima This video, titled "LOVE HIROSHIMA Promotional Video｜Full Ver｜English Edit" (LOVE HIROSHIMA プロモーションビデオ Full Ver 英語編), was uploaded by the "Hiroshima Prefectural Tourism Federation." The video gives aerial drone footage of sightseeing destinations around Hiroshima Prefecture. Just watching the video will have you feeling like you're on a full blown trip to Hiroshima! Most people start their trips from Hiroshima Station or Hiroshima Airport. Enjoy an amazing trip full of history, culture, and the unique food of Hiroshima! Sightseeing Destinations in Hiroshima Photo：The Torii Gate at Itsukushima Shrine, Hiroshima Prefecture At the beginning of the video we're introduced to Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社, Itsukushima Jinja), a popular sightseeing destination in Miyajima, Hiroshima, and from 0:21 in the video, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome are introduced. Itsukushima Shrine and the Atomic Bomb Dome have both been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. If you're traveling in Hiroshima Prefecture, be sure to stop by Yamato Museum in Kure and see the white walls of Joge, Fuchu as well. Going to Bayside Beach, Mikumarikyo Forest Park, Bungo Channel, and Sandan-kyo is popular too. We also recommend outdoor activities, such as driving around the islands of the Setouchi area and Shimanami cycling. You can watch the Hiroshima Toyo Carp play baseball at Hiroshima Stadium as well! If you're into sports, check out a game at the Hiroshima Green Arena. Delicious Hiroshima Cuisine! Photo：Hiroshimayaki Hiroshima is also popular as a city where you can eat delicious food. Many travelers return to get a sweet taste of Hiroshimayaki, a type of okonomiyaki. There are other foods, such as oysters, a specialty in the Setouchi area, anagomeshi (eel rice), Onomichi ramen, navy curry from Kure, and horumon tempura. We recommend sipping on some wine at Hiroshima Miyoshi Winery, shown at 4:19 in the video. Many food events are held in Hiroshima throughout the year, so a lot of people come to visit and enjoy them. Summary of Sightseeing in Hiroshima Photo：Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park As you can see in the video, there are many famous sightseeing spots and hidden gems in Hiroshima. Be sure to try the many different seafood dishes in Hiroshima as well! If you're looking to relax and take your time exploring the area, consider booking a hotel. That being said, you can of course enjoy a one day trip to Hiroshima, so be sure to check it out if you have the chance! 【Official Website】Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture｜City Hall Website https://www.city.hiroshima.lg.jp/site/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Hiroshima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g298561-Hiroshima_Hiroshima_Prefecture_Chugoku-Vacations.html

Video introduction of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Special Open House in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture This is a video titled "20180407 Kyoto Imperial Palace Special Opening kyoto imperial palace Special Day（20180407 京都御所 特別公開 kyoto imperial palace Special Day）," produced by "osaka life impact," that shows the special opening of the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The Kyoto Imperial Palace, introduced in this video, is a valuable building that brings together traditional Japanese culture and the ancient architecture of the Japanese Imperial Court. It was used as the residence of the Emperor until the Meiji Restoration in 1869. Today, it is used as the Imperial Palace. The "Kyoto Imperial Palace Special Opening" is the perfect place to get an in-depth look at the fascinating buildings that give you a sense of Japan's deep history. Enjoy taking a walk through the Kyoto Imperial Palace by watching the video. What Kind of Place Is the Kyoto Imperial Palace? Source :YouTube screenshot The Kyoto Imperial Palace is a facility related to the Imperial family, located in Kamigyo ward, Kyoto city, Kyoto Prefecture, and is currently managed by the Kyoto Office of the Imperial Household Agency. It is a building derived from Todo-in Temple, and has been regarded as an Imperial Palace since Emperor Godaigo left Kyoto in 1331 and Emperor Kogon was crowned. The Imperial Palace was used for 550 years, through the reigns of Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, all the way up to the relocation of the capital to Tokyo by the Emperor Meiji. Tours and Highlights of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Photo：Kyoto Imperial Palace, Shishinden One of the things you don't want to miss when visiting the Imperial Palace is the gates scattered around the area. The gates, such as Kenrei Gate, Shuhei Gate, Gishu Gate, Seisho Gate, Kougou Gate, and Empress Gate are all amazing architectural masterpieces. Be sure to check out buildings such as the Shishinden and the Imperial Throne, as well as places like,Seiryoden, Oninoma, Morotayu, Geisyun, Kogosho, Ongakumonsho, Empress Gojogo, Osannoma, Goryoko. Also, check out Saruga Tsuji, the demon gate. In addition to the Kemari garden, the courtyard garden, the pond garden, and the inner court gardens which can be seen at 4:51, you can enjoy the cherry blossoms in full bloom at and around Shin-Mikurumayose shown at 0:40 in the video. Don't forget to take pictures! There's some amazing places that will look great on your Instagram! Sightseeing Around the Kyoto Imperial Palace! Photo：Autumn leaves at Arashiyama Kyoto, dating back to the relocation of the Heian capital, is a popular spot visited by many tourists from both Japan and overseas. After visiting the Kyoto Imperial Palace, stop by the Munakata Shrine and Itsukushima Shrine in Gyoen and ask for your red seal! If you have time, we definitely recommend visiting the Arashiyama area, Gojo area, Nijo Castle, the Kyoto National Museum, and more. If you want to enjoy lunch at a cafe or buy souvenirs, we recommend visiting the Kawaramachi area. There's so many popular sightseeing spots in Kyoto that you probably won't be able to see everything in one day (unless you're running maybe). That being said, we recommend booking a hotel and staying overnight. There's plenty to see so you definitely won't regret it. Kyoto Video Tour Summary Photo：Kyoto Imperial Palace You can see the majesty of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and all of its charms throughout the video, so take your time perusing the sights. The Kyoto Imperial Palace is normally closed to the public, but by filling out a visitors application you can reserve a visit. There are also public events during spring and autumn, so we recommend visiting Kyoto at this time. No reservation is required for the general public and no admission fee is required. A tour around the famous places in Kyoto will be held simultaneously with the opening of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, so think about participating if you're interested. ◆Introduction of Kyoto Imperial Palace facility◆ 【Address】3 Kyoto Gyoen, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto 602-0881 【Access】Immediately from Marutamachi Station or Imadegawa Station on the Karasuma Subway Line 【Entrance fee】None 【Hours】9:00 to 16:30 (* Please see the official website for details as times may vary by season) 【Closures】Mondays 【Parking】Available (charged) 【Official Website】Visiting the Imperial Household Agency: Facility Information: Kyoto Imperial Palace https://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/english/index.html 【Tripadvisor】Kyoto Imperial Palace https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d321088-Reviews-Kyoto_Imperial_Palace-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Reihoku, Amakusa, Kyushu This video is a promotional video for Reihoku, Amakusa in Kumamoto, Kyushu titled "reihoku," created by "Reihoku Town Hall." The video introduces the many attractive places and magnificent nature of Reihoku, Amakusa, Kumamoto. Reihoku is the perfect place to visit if you like the ocean. Check out Tomioka castle and Tomioka visiter center if you're looking for a tasteful sightseeing tour. The video shows the many different tourist spots dotted around Reihoku. Let's take a look! Amakusa, Kumamoto - A UNESCO World Heritage Site Photo：Sakizu Church The Amakusa area in Kumamoto, Kyushu was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018. The World Heritage Site "Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region" is where you can feel the history and culture of Japanese Christianity. It has been about 450 years since Christianity was introduced to Japan. Visit the different churches and experience Japan's culture of Christianity. At 1:39 in the video, you can see a statue of the Virgin Mary on a cliff. It's very beautiful even if you don't follow Christianity. Ocean Views in Reihoku, Kumamoto Photo：Yatsushiro Sea You can go on a cruise where you can see dolphins from Tomioka port. You'll be fascinated to see all the different beautiful ocean views that the cruise offers. There are other popular spots such as Tomioka beach, Shikizaki cape, and Oppai rock (Lit. "Breast Rock") in Amakusa ocean. We recommend the Reihoku steam ship for sightseeing. It's only a 45-minute ride between Amakusa and Nagasaki. Try the popular tour of Reihoku Thermal Power Plant that takes place on the day the power plant was opened. Check the video at 1:05 to see the rock cruising. There are so many photo locations for Instagram! Gourmet Food in Reihoku, Amakusa Photo：Nagasaki chanpon noodles Fresh sea food is a must in Reihoku, Amakusa. Try the freshly caught fish and oysters from Reihoku! Amakusa area is also famous for cabbage. At 2:42 in the video, all of the gourmet foods are introduced. Which one are you thinking about trying? Nagasaki chanpon noodles are another must-eat food since Amakusa is close to Nagasaki. Fill your belly with all the delicious Amakusa cuisine. The Cultivation of pearls is also famous in Amakusa. You can even purchase them as souvenirs! Summary of Reihoku, Amakusa, Kumamoto As you can see in the video, Reihoku is a small, yet beautiful town surrounded by beautiful nature. If you're planning to visit Amakusa, try to reserve a hotel next to the ocean. It'll be an unforgettable trip. 【Official Website】Reihoku town office in Amakusa, Kumamoto https://reihoku-kumamoto.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Reihoku, Amakusa, Kumamoto Tourist https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g1121557-Activities-Reihoku_machi_Amakusa_gun_Kumamoto_Prefecture_Kyushu.html

The Tohoku Shinkansen This video is titled "Max Speed of 320 km/h, Tohoku Shinkansen, Fukushima Station, High-Speed Passage." It's produced by "Tetsudo Yoshi" and shows the Tohoku Shinkansen flying through Fukushima station In Japan, there are 9 lines: “Tokaido Shinkansen,” “Sanyo Shinkansen,” “Kyusyu Shinkansen,” “Tohoku Shinkansen,” “Hokuriku Shinkansen,” “Jyoetsu Shinkansen” “Yamagata Shinkansen,” “Akita Shinkansen,” and “Hokkaido Shinkansen.” These lines connect places all over Japan. Among them, “Hayabusa,” “Komachi,” and “Hayate” of “Tohoku Shinkansen“ are very popular for rail fan or children who love trains. The Tohoku Shinkansen is a railway line operated by the East Japan Rail Company (JR東日本:JR-East). The Tohoku Shinkansen has a ten and twelve-car train called “Hayabusa” and “Hayate” respectively, both with top speeds of 320 kilometers per hour (~200 mph). The sight of the Tohoku Shinkansen passing Fukushima station at such fantastic speed is incredible. What Types of Shinkansen Are There in Japan? Photo：Flower field, Shinkansen, and Mt. Fuji Japan's shinkansen link the major cities throughout Japan. The Tohoku Shinkansen, which operates the trains “Hayabusa,” “Hayate,” “Yamabiko,” “Nasuno,” “Tsubasa,” and “Komachi” link “Shin-Aomori” and “Tokyo.” The Yamagata Shinkansen, or “Akita Shinkansen,” is also convenient for trips in Japan's Tohoku region. Throughout the video we see many shinkansen flash before our eyes at incredible speeds. The latest model of the sleek, aerodynamic Shinkansen is pretty cool! Also you can enjoy the Japan sea area using the Joetsu Shinkansen, with its "Toki" and "Tanigawa" trains, or the recently opened Hokuriku Shinkansen. The Tokaido Shinkansen travels from Tokyo and Shin-Yokohama to Shin-Osaka via stops in Nagoya and Kyoto. Also the Sanyo Shinkansen links Shin-Osaka, Hakata, Kyushu, and Kagoshima Chuo Station. New lines on some of the Hokkaido, Kyushu and Hokuriku Shinkansen lines are also scheduled to open after 2022. How to Book Tickets for Japan's Shinkansen Transportation for tourists in Japan is quite convenient as there are a number of buses and trains available. In particular, the Japanese shinkansen has a beautiful interior design, easy to use facilities, and a comfortable travel experience. For arrival and departure times, you can use the JR timetable, or the online transfer information service. You can also check seat availability and book a ticket in advance online. There are different prices for unreserved and reserved seats, so be sure to reserve the seat that suits your budget. We recommend checking necessary information for your trip, such as transportation fees or routes, in advance, for a smooth, safe trip. Summary of Japan's Shinkansen Photo：The Hokkaido Shinkansen As you can see in the video, the awesome sight of the Tohoku Shinkansen can be seen at many stations in Japan. The Linear Chuo Shinkansen, which will connect Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka, is scheduled to open in 2027. This linear Shinkansen has a maximum speed of 500 km, and the travel time between Tokyo and Osaka will be reduced to one hour and seven minutes, compared to the current travel time of three hours and ten minutes. It'll be interesting to see it in action. Take advantage of the Tohoku Shinkansen and other Japanese railway lines to enjoy a comfortable journey through Japan.

Gourmet local delicacy “funa-zushi” - Video introduction of the special manufacturing process by a long-established craftsman in Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture. "Before Sushi, There Was Funazushi" is a video produced by Great Big Story to promote Funazushi, a local specialty of Shiga Prefecture. This is the video for “Kitashina-roho,” a long established Funazushi shop founded 400 years ago in the Edo Period. Kitashina-roho has closed down once before, but 18th generation craftswoman Mariko Kitamura and her husband Atsushi aimed for a fresh start through the production of high quality Funazushi. The video shows a craftsman explaining what Funazushi is and how it's made. We don't recommend watching this on an empty stomach! What Is Funazushi? Photo：Funazushi Funazushi is a local food made around Lake Biwa (琵琶湖:Biwa-ko), the largest lake in Japan. Japan has a history of fermenting fish using lactic acids such as salt, rice, or rice malt, in order to make sushi. Funazushi was an especially popular preserved food around Lake Biwa, an area far from the sea. How Funazushi Is Made Source :YouTube screenshot Funazushi is known as one of the roots of Japanese sushi culture. Sushi in Japan is characterized by the craftsmanship of the chefs. Sushi is prepared by the chefs in seconds and eaten immediately. This became a popular part of culture in the edo period and was known as "Hayazushi" (lit. Fast Sushi). However, Funazushi, being a fermented food, takes a long time to prepare. In fact, it can take as long as three years from the time of production to the time it is eaten. According to the explanation by Atsushi Kitamura in the video (1:41), "There are three important things in making Funazushi: gutting, blood letting, and desalination." Funazushi is made from Nigorobuna living in lake Biwa. To make Funazushi, the sushi chef starts by prepping the fish. From here, the fish is stuffed with salt and then transferred to a barrel with more salt. Mariko Kitamura says in the video "I want everyone to understand the time and effort to make Funazushi, and to understand that Funazushi is one of the roots of the sushi we eat today" (2:10). There are two types of Funazushi: Honnarezushi which is fermented using only salt, and Hayanare that is fermented using vinegar. Eating Shiga's Local Specialty Photo：Funazushi Chazuke Shiga's local specialty, Funazushi, is available in stores on Nishikikoji-dori in Kyoto or by mail order service. We recommend buying this as souvenir and enjoying the distinct flavors of this traditional snack. If this distinct smell bothers you, we recommend eating the Funazushi with chazuke. In Japanese style restaurants in Shiga or Kyoto, it's often paired with locally made sake. Although Funazushi is not grilled, it tastes similar to roasted foods, such as ham. Summary of Funazushi Funazushi used to be a common food in Japanese homes. As you can see from the video, it takes time and effort to make this delicious food. You can see the time and effort that chefs put into making these Funazushi by watching the video. The smell of fermented food can be off putting to many people, but the flavor can be quite addictive. Eating such a rare treat is akin to dining on caviar. If you're planning on dropping by Shiga, be sure to visit the famous Japanese restaurants in Shiga to try some delicious Funazushi! ◆Kitashina-roho◆ 【Address】1287 Katsuno Takashima-shi Shiga 【Hours】10:00 to 17:00 【Closures】Monday・Thursday 【Telephone】0740-20-2042 【Tabe-log】Kitashina-rouho https://tabelog.com/en/shiga/A2505/A250501/25000007/

Echizen Lacquer Ware, a Traditional Craft of Sabae City, Fukui Prefecture - Video Introduction This video introduces Echizen lacquerware, a traditional craft in Fukui prefecture. The video “TEWAZA Japan Echizen Lacquerware（手技TEWAZA「越前漆器」Japan Echizen Lacquerware／伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square）” is created by “Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square.” Echizen lacquerware is mainly produced in the Kawada region in Sabae city. It has an air of Japanese culture and is also very beautiful. This article will introduce how it's made, as well as some of the different products. Be sure to follow along with the video and find your favorite! The Traditional Craft, Echizen Lacquerware: Culture and History Source :YouTube screenshot Echizen lacquerware has a long history, with origins dating back to the Asuka Period (593 to 710) more than 1400 years ago. It is said that a painter, who was asked to repaint the imperial crown by the emperor, also offered a black lacquer bowl to the emperor with it, and the emperor was so impressed by the work that he helped promote its growth. After the Edo Period, (1603 to 1868) many craftsmen were thriving around Sabae city in Fukui prefecture, and their technique gradually spread throughout Japan. The Traditional Craft, Echizen Lacquerware: How Its Made Source :YouTube screenshot Echizen lacquerware uses a traditional technique that has been passed down since ancient times. The technique requires various craftsmen to be involved in the production process. 1. Lacquering (漆塗り, Urushi nuri) - (0:25) The wood is carved out and then lacquered with two or three coats of lacquer. 2. Gold Inlaying (沈金, Chinkin)- (1:25) The surface is carved and the gold foil is applied. The craftsman in the video says that the gold foil shines beautiful, like a mirror, when the chase is clear. 3. Gold lacquering (蒔絵, Makie) - (2:05) This process involves sprinkling gold dust over the lacquer. This process must be done before the lacquer is dry. According to the craftsman, the drying time of the lacquer varies depending on the humidity of each day. The Japanese method of gold lacquering has been passed down since ancient times. Lacquerware made by first-rate artisans, are very beautiful pieces of artwork. Echizen lacquerware is elegant and long-lasting. Get Your Own High-Quality Echizen Lacquerware Source :YouTube screenshot You can purchase high-quality, hand crafted Echizen lacquerware at Shikki Sajibe. There are many workshops that produce and distribute Echizen lacquerware in Sabae city. They sell everyday goods, such as bowls, chopsticks, tumblers, coffee cups, saucers, plates, lunch boxes, and more. In recent years, lacquerware manufacturing techniques have improved, and products that can be used in microwave ovens and dishwashers are on the rise. You can see Echizen lacquerware products at 3:09 in the video. There are kitchen knives, clocks, and so on, all of which are incredibly beautiful. Echizen lacquerware can also be purchased online, so if you're interested, be sure to check out some of the online retailers. The most famous Echizen lacquerware shop is Echizen Sikki Qtarou; It has been open for 94 years. In 1981 the founder Soumei Kyutaro, then 83 years old, received the fifth class Order of the Sacred Treasure award. Summary of Echizen Lacquerware The traditional craft, Echizen lacquerware, requires incredible delicacy and attention to detail. If you're looking at adding a traditional Japanese flair to your house, consider purchasing some Echizen lacquerware! It also makes for a great gift. We hope this article and video helped pique your interest in Echizen lacquerware. If you're looking for beautiful Echizen lacquerware, be sure to check out the shops and workshops in Sabae city. 【Official website】Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/