Official Author

坂崎 なお（Nao Sakazaki）

The World Heritage Site, Kumano Kodo This video, titled "[4K] A World Heritage Site with Scenic Landscape: Kumano Kodo" ([4K] 世界遺産 絶景 熊野古道), is a sightseeing PR video that captures the breathtaking scenery of Kumano Kodo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Wakayama Prefecture (和歌山県, Wakayama-ken). Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range, a World Heritage Site, includes Yoshino Omine, Kumano Sanzan, and the Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes of Koyasan (Mt. Koya). Among them, the route from Kumano Sanzan's Daimonzaka (大門坂, Daimonzaka), to Nachi Falls (那智の滝, Nachinotaki) is one of the most popular tourist routes, where you can enjoy the cultural scenery. It takes about 15 minutes to get to Daimonzaka by car from Nachi Station on the JR Kii Main Line (紀伊本線, Kiihonsen). This video captures the route from Daimonzaka to Nachi Falls in beautiful 4K footage. Enjoy the natural beauty and sacred temples and shrines in the video. Kumano Kodo- A World Heritage Site Source :YouTube screenshot Kumano Pilgrimage Routes (熊野参詣道, Kumano Sankeido) is an umbrella term for Nakahechi Route (中辺路, Nakahechi) which runs from Tanabe to Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine (熊野本宮, Kumanohongu), Ohechi Route (大辺路, Ohechi) which runs along the coast to Nachi Shingu (那智新宮, Nachishingu) along the coastline, and Kohechi Route (小辺路, Kohechi) which runs from Koyasan to Kumano Hongu Taisha. In addition, the Kii Route (紀伊路, Kiiji), accessible from the Kii area, the Ise Route (伊勢路, Iseji), accessible from Ise, and the Omine Okugakemichi Route (大峯奥駈道, Omineokugakemichi), which leads from Yoshino Omine in Nara to Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine, are some of the historical hidden gems in the area. Kumano Kodo is known as a historical power spot that has been used by many people since ancient times. If you’re planning on visiting Kumano Kodo, we also recommend getting a Kumano Kodo Stamp Book (熊野古道押印帳, Kumano Kodo Oincho) to gather seals. A Pilgrimage to the Historical Kumano Kodo! ©T-KIMURA Modifying The natural trails of Kumano Kodo are paved with cobblestones. Make your way through the historical cobblestone trail and through the torii gates to make the pilgrimage to Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine and Kumano Nachi Shrine (熊野那智大社, Kumanonachitaisha), introduced at 1:23 in the video. At 2:00, you can see the breathtaking sight of Nachi Falls. Located at Hiro Shrine (飛瀧神社, Hirojinja), an associated shrine of Kumano Nachi Shrine, and is one of the three most famous waterfalls in Japan. The solemn waterfall, which is considered to be a sacred object of worship, is so beautiful that you can't help but lose track of time as you gaze at it. Other Sightseeing Spots Around Kumano Kodo Photo：Kamikura Shrine There are many more sightseeing spots around Kumano Kodo! There's the former site of Kumano Hongu-taisha, which was moved to its present location in 1889, called Oyu no hara Kumano Hayatama Shrine (熊野速玉大社, Kumanohayatamataisha), where Kumano Hayatama no Okami (熊野速玉大神, Kumanohayatamanookami) and Kumano Fusumi no Okami (熊野夫須美大神, Kumanofusuminookami) are enshrined, Kamikura Shrine (神倉神社, Kamikurajinja), a shrine with a huge rock called "Gotobiki Boulder" as its deity atop the 500 stone steps, Seiganto Temple (青岸渡寺, Seigantoji), Tamaki Shrine (玉置神社, Tamakijinja), Doro Gorge (瀞峡, Dorokyo), which is a huge valley inside Yoshino Kumano National Park (吉野熊野国立公園, Yoshinokumanokokuritsukoen), Tanise Suspension Bridge (谷瀬の吊り橋, Tanisenotsuribashi), Yunomine Hot Springs (湯の峰温泉, Yunomineonsen), Kawayu Hot Springs (川湯温泉, Kawayuonsen), and many others. You may want to consider visiting Kumano Kodo in conjunction with festivals and events such as the annual Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine Festival (熊野本宮大社例大祭, Kumanohongutaisha Reidaisai), Funatama Shrine Festival (船玉神社祭, Funatamajinjasai), the Yata Fire Festival (八咫の火祭り, Yatanohimatsuri), and more. There are also restaurants, cafes and eateries aroundKumano Kodo to help you relax after a long journey. Summary of Kumano Kodo Photo：Kumano Kodo in Fall We hope that this video and article has inspired you to visit Kumano Kodo, a historic and famous tourist attraction. There are many Instagrammable views, so take the time to take in the sights. The Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route includes steep slopes such as Koyazaka (高野坂, Koyazaka) and Tomitazaka (富田坂, Tomitazaka), so wear clothes that are easy to get around in. After the pilgrimage, we recommend that you take a refreshing dip in a hot spring, such as at "Boukido" in the Nachi Katsura area. Some travel agencies offer Kumano Kodo walking tour plans, so if it's your first time visiting, consider giving it a try. Be sure to watch the video to see the beautiful views of the Kumano Kodo! 【Official Website】Kumano Kodo｜Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine Tourism Association https://www.hongu.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Kumano Kodo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023661-d7902795-Reviews-Kumano_Kodo_Pilgrimage_Routes-Tanabe_Wakayama_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Kisumika" Hidden Inn in the Central Alps Video Introduction This video titled "2019 Full ver” is a promotional video for the private getaway in the Chuo Alps- Tokisumika. Kiso range (木曽山脈：Kiso mountain range) in Nagano(長野県：Nagano prefecture), Hida mountain range, and Akashi mountain range are collectively called the Japan Alps. The Chuo Alps, located in the center of the Japan Alps, is a popular tourist spot where people can enjoy different sceneries from all 4 seasons. Tokisumika, in the Chuo Alps, is a popular accommodation on travel and review sites. If you want to escape from daily life and feel the beauty of Nagano Prefecture's Chuo Alps, be sure to watch the video and take in all of the gorgeous views. What Kind of Place Is Tokisumika Source :YouTube screenshot When you arrive at the lobby, you'll hear the beautiful singing of an erhu (a two-stringed Chinese violin). The recommended guest rooms are the scenic Garden View Twin and the Japanese Garden Semi Suite Twin. There are other luxurious rooms such as the Garden Corner Twin, Riverside Corner Twin, and Garden Semi Suite Twin, and all of the rooms are comfortable and attractive. It is also recommended that you relax in the guest room with a semi-open-air bath. Unfortunately, there is no large public bath, but every room has a semi-open air bath equipped with various amenities. How to Spend Your Time at Tokisumika Source :YouTube screenshot At the restaurant "Aoi," You can enjoy original kaiseki meals (traditional Japanese meal brought in courses) prepared with ingredients from the local mountains in the southern part of Shinshu. With carefully selected ingredients and a motto of hospitality, the Japanese cuisine, prepared with local ingredients, is truly exquisite. The Ayurveda Indian massage service inside the hotel is also a great way to relax. There is also a wedding plan at "Kisumi Ka," a hidden inn tucked away in the Central Alps Grove. If you have a wedding ceremony here, the amazing views are sure to make for an unforgettable experience. Summary of Tokisumika! ©Suganu0405 Modifying Tokisumika is a hotel that offers a magnificent view of the Japan Alps. If you're staying here, it's recommended that you take the Komagatake Ropeway and walk around the different tourist spots of the Chuo Alps, such as the instagrammable "Senjojiki Cirque," "Kozenji Temple,” "Komakusa Bridge," or the "Komagane Local Museum." You can enjoy one day hot spring facilities at "Komakusa no yu" as well. We recommend taking a walk around Komagane Kogen (駒ヶ根高原: Komagane Highlands) to enjoy the overflowing nature. Accommodation fees vary by season and room type. Please see the official web-site or travel web sites for prices. If you haven't yet, be sure to watch the video about Tokisumika to get a better idea of what it's like. ◆Information about Tokisumika◆ 【Address】4-172 Akaho Komagane-shi Nagano 【Access】3 minutes by car from Komagane IC in Chuodo. A free shuttle bus is available from JR Komagane station (Reservation required) 【Parking】Available (Free) 【Telephone Number】0265-95-2446 【Official Website】The Private Getaway Tokisumika https://www.tokisumika.com/ 【Tripadvisor】The Private Getaway Tokisumika https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g1021315-d12687372-Reviews-Chuo_Alps_Mori_no_Kakureyado_Tokisumika-Komagane_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html

Video Introduction of “Hozu River Rafting” in Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture This video, titled “Beautiful Kyoto: Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari) [4K],” is an introductory video about the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride, created by Discover Kyoto. Many people go sightseeing in Kyoto to see the rich history and culture and to experience the Japanese atmosphere. If you want to truly enjoy the nature of the surrounding area, we recommend trying the Hozugawa River Boat Ride in Arashiyama! But first, sit back, relax, and enjoy the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride. The Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride Photo：Boatman going down Hozu River The Sagano (嵯峨野, Sagano) / Arashiyama area is one of the most popular tourist sights in Kyoto. On the scenic Hozu River that flows through Arashiyama, you can experience an amazing boat ride. The Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride started about 400 years ago, when the waterway was made by cutting down the valley of the Hozu River, to transport supplies from Tanba (丹波, Tanba) to Kyoto. In Saga Arashiyama, near the end of the Kyoto Kameoka/Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride, lays Daihikaku Senkouji Temple, which was built to mourn for the spirits of victims of the excavation work at the time. The Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride starts from the Shin-Hozu Ohashi Bridge area in Kameoka City (亀岡市, Kameoka-shi). The journey is about 16 km long and lasts until the Arashiyama wharf shown in 2:12 in the video. The boat does not have an engine. Instead, each boatman uses a single rod instead of an oar to navigate the river with ease. For your own safety, passengers are required to wear life jackets when boarding. Please note that there is no restroom on the boat. The Beauty of the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride! Photo：The Sagano Romantic Train There are scenic spots, such as the suspension bridge at Hozukyo and the Red Rocks of Ose that are in the middle of the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride. These are great for Instagram, so get your cameras ready! Be sure to take a photo of the amazing sightseeing train "The Sagano Romantic Train," shown at 1:18 in the video. It's a good idea to have a blanket or something to protect you from the splashing of waves in areas with rapids such as Koyayu Falls. We also recommend trying some oden that's made and can be purchased on the boat; This can be seen at 1:48 in the video. Tips to Enjoy Your Boat Ride! Photo：Oi River and Houseboat in Arashiyama, Kyoto To fully enjoy the scenery of Kyoto Arashiyama, purchase a set ticket that includes The Sagano Romantic Train and the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride. It's also convenient to use the ticket that includes both the Keihan-Kyoto Bus and the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride. There are some package tours and plans for hotels that come with the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride as well. You can also experience rafting in the Hozu River valley. Taking a horse-drawn carriage to get to the boarding area for the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride will make for an unforgettable experience. Summery of the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride! This video introduces the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride amongst the beautiful autumn leaves. In spring, you can enjoy a boat trip surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms, and in summer, you can enjoy cooling off in a yukata. The Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride uses a tarp to shelter passengers on rainy days, but we recommend checking the weather in advance as trips may be canceled due to inclement weather. Also, please make sure you make a reservation in advance as it an be crowded during cherry blossom season and during the changing of the leaves in the fall. Every October, the “Hozu Fire Festival,” an annual festival of "Ukeda Shrine" and "Hachimangu Shrine," is held. At this festival, you can see the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride entering the valley. We recommend going on the river boat ride when this event is taking place. If you want to make the most of your visit to Kyoto, take a thrilling boat ride down the Hozu River at Kameoka / Arashiyama in Kyoto. ◆Kyoto Kameoka/ Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari◆ 【Duration】About 90 minutes 【Fare】Adult 4,100 JPY、 Child 2,700 JPY (Group Discount and Charter Available) *As of October, 2019. 【Access】8 minutes on foot from JR Kameoka Station, 15 minutes by Bus from The Sagano Romantic Train Kameoka station. 【Parking】Available (About 80 spots) 【Official Website】Welcome to the official website for the Hozugawa River Boat Ride. (Hozugawa Yusen Sightseeing Boat Association) https://www.hozugawakudari.jp/en 【Official Website】The official website of municipal office. Kameoka City, Kyoto https://www.city.kameoka.kyoto.jp/foreign/english/index.html

Video introduction of "Aoki Village" in Ogata-gun, Nagano Prefecture This is a PR video for Aoki Village, in Nagano Prefecture, Koshinetsu, produced by the Aoki Village General Affairs Planning Division. Aoki Village in Nagano Prefecture, surrounded by the beautiful scenery of Shinshu, was ranked first on the 2016 list of “Most Desirable Villages to Live in in Japan.” Here, we'll introduce information about Aoki Village, where the countryside scenery of Japan remains. Be sure to follow along with the video to find out why it's rated so highly! Sightseeing in Aoki Village, Nagano Prefecture Aoki Village is a mountain village surrounded by "The Aoki three," a trio of large mountains. Source :YouTube screenshot It's said that "Aoki is the home of peasant revolts and evening showers." This alludes to the frequent revolts that took place throughout the history of Aoki village. In Aoki village, the ancestors who were executed for defending their village are called "gimin" (meaning "righteous people"), and the culture of drumming in honor of their bravery (Gimin Taiko) has been passed down for generations. You can see Gimin Taiko at concerts held by the preservation society and at sightseeing events around the village. You can hear the powerful sound of the taiko drums at 1:50 in the video. The Most Popular Temple for Sightseeing in Japan's Shinshu Region Source :YouTube screenshot Daiho Temple (大法寺, Daihoji), known as one of the best sightseeing temples in the Shinshu region, is a sightseeing spot that represents Aoki Village. The Daiho Temple three-storied pagoda, built in 1333, has been designated as a national treasure. It can be seen at 2:06 in the video. In recent years, Koiwato Shrine (恋渡神社, Koiwato Jinja) has become a popular spot for wedding ceremonies, and other hidden tourist attractions, such as Hiyoshi Shrine (日吉神社, Hiyoshi Jinja) and Sondanrei Shrine (子檀嶺神社, Sondanrei Jinja) are great places to visit. The Keita Goto Memorial Park, named after Keita Goto, a businessman from Aoki Village, is a great place to go for a walk. There are more than 800 stone Buddhas at Shunarara Pass on the border of Chikuhoku Village; you've got to see them! Activities in Aoki Village, Nagano Prefecture At Paragliding Park Aoki, you can experience an exhilarating paragliding experience while enjoying a view of the mountains. This can be seen at 0:35 in the video. It's an awesome activity that allows you to have the most amazing view of nature all to yourself! At Refresh Park Aoki, you can enjoy activities in the great outdoors, such as mountain stream fishing and athletic activities. After sightseeing, we recommend relaxing at Tazawa Hot Spring (田沢温泉, Tazawa Onsen) or Kutsukake Hot Spring (沓掛温泉, Kutsukake Onsen). Enjoy the Local Cuisine of Aoki Village, Nagano Prefecture! Source :YouTube screenshot If you're looking to grab a bite to eat, nothing beats Nagano Prefecture's locally made soba. If you're going sightseeing in Aoki Village, we recommend trying the Tachiakane soba! In addition, Shinshu's specialty wine and matsutake mushrooms make great souvenirs. These products can be purchased at Roadside Station Aoki. Aoki Village cuisine is introduced at 1:06 in the video. Aokinoko, the mascot of Aoki Village is shown at 1:38 in the video. It's based on the local specialty, mushrooms. Summary of Aoki Village We hope this video has given you a glimpse into the charm of Aoki Village. The number of tourists and immigrants to Aoki Village is increasing every year. If you're thinking about sightseeing in Japan, why not visit the beautiful, natural scenery of Aoki Village in Nagano Prefecture?

Video introduction of "Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine" in Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture This is an aerial video of Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine in Yamanashi prefecture, Japan, created by 「crescendo L DESIGN」. Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine is located at Yoshidaguchi, one of the starting points of the climbing trail for Mt. Fuji. In this article, we're going to explore the charms of the world cultural heritage site Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine. The video will introduce must-see places inside the shrine as well as give an aerial view of the facility. Be sure to follow along as you read the article. The History of Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine ©ShozzaTrip Modifying Mt. Fuji is a World Cultural Heritage site, and Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, which has a history of over 1900 years, has been designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Throughout history, Mt. Fuji has erupted several times. In the past, people believed the eruptions indicated the anger of the gods. Because of this, they built many Sengen shrines around Mt. Fuji and revered them as the gods of the volcano. The deity of beauty, Princess Konohanasakuya (木花咲耶姫, Konohanasakuya hime), is the primary god of the Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine. It is said that the shrine brings success in love, relationships, and business. Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, located at the foot of the revered Mt. Fuji, attracts attention as a power spot where you can feel the energy of nature. Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine Precinct Touring Route As you walk through the huge gate toward the shrine precinct, there is a grand Zuishin Gate (随神門, Zuishin mon) (a gate that prevents evil spirits from entering the shrine) welcoming visitors. Many stone lanterns guide you to the shrine. After purifying yourself at the Chozuya (a place for ritual cleansing of hands and mouth with water when visiting shrines), go on to Haiden (the hall of worship) where the large Tengu (Long-nosed goblin) masks are enshrined. After visiting the sacred trees Fujitarosugi (Japanese cedar) and FufuHinoki (Japanese cypress), pray at the main hall in the back. Don't forget to visit Suwa shrine (諏訪神社, Suwa jinja) as well. When you're done praying, we recommend visiting Otsuka Yama (大塚丘, Otsuka Yama), the birthplace of Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, and also where Yamato Takeru no Mikoto (日本武尊, Yamatotakerunomikoto) and Asama no Okami (浅野大神, AsamanoOkami) are enshrined. The view from the huge main gate through the main hall is introduced in the video at 0:47. Sightseeing at Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine Photo：Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine There are two types of seals visitors to Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine can receive. We recommend getting both! The fortunes that come with the charms and Netsuke (miniature sculptures) you can get at the shrine are also popular. The Yoshida Fire Festival is held at the shrine annually on the 26th and 27th in August. This festival is known as one of the "three most unique festivals in Japan." This fantastical fire festival is a must-see. Recap of Kitaguchi Honfu Fuji Sengen Shrine Mt. Fuji has long been revered as the god of volcanos in Japan. In the Edo period (1603-1868), numerous artists took up Mt. Fuji in their Ukiyo-e paintings, showing that Mt. Fuji has long been an object of worship. When you have a chance to take a trip to Mt. Fuji, it's worth visiting Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, known as a sacred historical spot where the light filters through the trees beautifully. Yoshida Udon is a famous local food in Yoshida City, Fuji, Yamanashi, where Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine is located. Be sure to try this delicious treat on your return from the shrine. Watching the video showing the powerful Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine will give you the great power of Mt. Fuji! ◆Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine◆ 【Address】5558 Kamiyoshida Fujiyoshida-shi Yamanashi-ken 403-0005, JAPAN 【Access】20 minutes on foot or by bus from Fujikyukousen Fujiyama Station, or 20 minutes on foot from Fujikyu Highland by bus (Fujikko-go) 【Hours】Reception Hours : 9:00 to 16:30 【Closures】Open everyday 【Parking】Available 【Phone Number】0555-22-0221 【Official Website】KitaguchiHongu Fuji Sengen Shrine https://sengenjinja.jp/english/index.html

Koi Carp: Loved by the Japanese Since Long Ago This video is called ‘Koi Carp 〜Swimming Art〜 (錦鯉 〜泳ぐ芸術〜)’ and made by JVT Channel (JVTチャンネル). The video shows you colorful koi swimming elegantly. Koi are aquarium fish with a long history. Historical records show koi being used as the inspiration for painting patterns of items exhibited at expos during the Taisho Period (1912～1926). They are actually an invasive species to Japan. The specially bred fish have been bred into many different varieties. Koi are kept as aquarium fish in aquariums and ponds within Japanese gardens. Their characteristics are their beautiful patterns and striking colors. The average size of these fish is between 30 and 60 cm and their life span is around 30 years. Let’s take a look at why these fish are so attractive. The video shows you a koi farm and a competition that you don’t get an opportunity to see often. Be sure to check it out while reading this article. What Are Koi? Photo：Koi Koi were originally called "irogoi" (色鯉, colored carp), hanagoi (花鯉, flower carp), and "moyougoi" (模様鯉, patterned carp) in Japanese. They started to be called Nishikigoi (錦鯉, brocade carp) because of their luxurious designs reminiscent of a brocade. The Japanese brocade shown at 0:14 in the documentary video is a Japanese traditional silk fabric made by weaving variously colored threads. Koi were originally eaten as a food, then, one day, a unique fish with beautiful patterns appeared. There are many kinds of koi, such as red and white and tri-colored koi with red, white, and black. In addition to the Taisho Sanshoku (tri-color) and the Showa Sanshoku, there are some unusually colored ones, such as light yellow, autumn Green, tortoise shell patterned koi, reflective koi, five Colored koi, and gold and Peacock koi as well. How Are Koi Looked After? Source :YouTube screenshot It takes a lot of work to raise beautiful Nishikigoi. The Dainichi Koi Farm in Niigata Prefecture in Japan's Koshinetsu region, farms koi. At the farm, they strictly control water temperature and quality, as well as feeding schedules. They put great care into raising beautiful koi. They are also very particular about the feed given to their koi. This can be seen from 1:13 in the video. From 1:37, you can see many baby koi as well. Hiroshi Mano from Dainichi Koi Farm says in the interview, "The most important things are maintaining proper water temperature and quality. Beautiful koi are strong, healthy koi. From 3:27 in the video, you can see the annual National Koi Competition. Koi from the Dainichi Koi Farm were the winners of this competition. How to Get Your Very Own Japanese Koi There are many kinds of koi. In Japan, many people love koi. Koi with patterns or beautiful colors are sold at auctions for sometimes astronomically high prices. Furthermore, you can buy specially bred varieties of koi at online shops and Yahoo Japan Auctions, but they usually go for quite a bit of money. Some orders for Japanese koi come from overseas. The number of koi exported overseas is increasing year by year. Popular koi have been used as a motifs in traditional Japanese crafts as well. We recommend buying plates and chopstick holders with koi pattern designs. Summary of Japan's "Swimming Jewels" Photo：Koi In Japan, there are many kinds of aquarium fish, such as goldfish and Japanese rice fish. Among them, koi are loved by many people for their jewel-like beauty. Koi are born around Niigata Prefecture area. You can learn the history and the characteristics of koi at Nishikigoi no Sato in Niigata, the birthplace of koi, and at Fukuoka Koinosato Park in Fukuoka-machi, Toyama Prefecture in Japan's Hokuriku region, which is one of Japan’s most famous koi production towns. If you have a large landscape garden or a large aquarium and would like some koi of your own, try searching online or try out some auction sites to see if they have what you're looking for. You can see many koi with beautiful patterns in the video. Be sure to check out the video to enjoy the beauty of Japan's "swimming jewels."

Akamutsu Cuisine "Ryu-Rin" Video Introduction at Ryu-Gin, Minato-ku, Tokyo This video, titled "Nihonryori RyuGin 2012" (日本料理 龍吟 龍鱗2012), introduces the amazing cuisine of Nihonryori RyuGin, a Japanese restaurant in Roppongi (*"NihonRyori" (日本料理), means "Japanese Cuisine" in Japanese*). The video was produced by Tokyo Gastronomy. Chef Seiji Yamamoto of RyuGin, a Japanese restaurant in Roppongi, presents his artistic fish dish, Ryurin, at the World Culinary Summit in Spain. Check out the masterful cuisine prepared in the video! Preparing the Delectable Seaperch Source :YouTube screenshot RyuGin's Chef Seiji Yamamoto uses blackthroat seaperch, which is fatty and juicy, with even its bones and scales being edible. Blackthroat seaperch, called "akamutsu" (赤むつ) in Japanese, is also called "nodoguro" (のどぐろ, lit. black throat) in Japanese, due to its black mouth, and is the finest seafood available from the Sea of Japan. Bringing out the flavor of the ingredients with simple cooking methods, such as frying and grilling, shows the artisanal techniques of Japanese cuisine. Chef Yamamoto has analyzed the traditional Japanese method of cooking dried fish over open flame and has incorporated umami by drying and maturing ingredients to create the pinnacle of Japanese cuisine. At 0:26 in the video, you can see the fish being neatly scaled, and at 0:58, filleted with the utmost precision. After the fish is dried, it's fried in oil. This can be seen at 12:47 in the video, and the finished product is shown at 14:50. Learn How to Make This Delicious Traditional Dish Source :YouTube screenshot Japan is home to numerous Japanese restaurants and fine dining establishments. You can also find delicious Japanese cuisine, historic ryokan, ryotei, and restaurants in every corner of the country. Restaurants serving Japanese cuisine use carefully selected local ingredients and pay close attention to details, from the preparation process to cooking methods. At some Japanese restaurants, you can observe the chef's knife work up close. If you're visiting Japan from abroad, we highly recommend dining at a Japanese restaurant and enjoying traditional Japanese food culture. Summary of Japan's Finest Cuisine Source :YouTube screenshot In this article, we introduced you to the artisanal skills of chef Seiji Yamamoto at the Japanese restaurant RyuGin, who made the beautiful dish Ryurin using blackthroat seaperch. You can enjoy artistic masterpieces like the one shown in the video at the many fine dining restaurants in Japan. When you go to a Japanese restaurant be sure to go over the menu and find what's right for you. You're sure to enjoy a great meal with lots of delicious local ingredients! ◆RyuGin｜General Information◆ 【Address】7F Tokyo Midtown Hibiya, 1-1-2 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-Ku, Tokyo 100-0006 【Access】Directly connected to Hibiya Station via the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, Hibiya Line and Toei Subway Mita Line 【Hours】17:30 - 23:00 【Closures】Irregular 【Telephone】03-6630-0007 【Official Website】Nihonryori RyuGin｜日本料理 龍吟 http://www.nihonryori-ryugin.com/ 【Yelp】RyuGin｜龍吟 https://www.yelp.com/biz/%E9%BE%8D%E5%90%9F-%E6%B8%AF%E5%8C%BA

Video introduction of "Todoroki Gorge" in Setagaya-ku, Tokyo This video, titled "Todoroki Valley – Tokyo - 4K Ultra HD (Todoroki Valley - Tokyo - 等々力渓谷 - 4K Ultra HD)," was filmed in Todoroki Valley, Setagaya city, Tokyo (東京都世田谷区, toukyousetagayaku). Todoroki Keikoku Park (等々力渓谷公園, todorokikeikokukouen) is a beautiful green park located in the center of Setagaya city that stretches over 1km, and is a 20-minute train ride from Shibuya station (渋谷駅, shibuyaeki). The picturesque promenade follows the Yazawa river (谷沢川, yazawagawa) which is part of the Tama River (多摩川, tamagawa) water system. Todoroki valley, a place in the city where you can enjoy taking a walk surrounded by nature, is also known for being a "power spot." From 1:24 in the video, you can see the entrance to the oasis that is Todoroki valley, under Golf-bashi Bridge (ゴルフ橋, gorufubashi). You can enjoy the scenery here year round, with cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn colors in fall, and a snowy landscape in winter. Todoroki valley doesn't tend to get crowded as it isn't as well known as other spots in the city, making it a great place to casually visit in your free time. Sightseeing in Todoroki Valley Photo：Todoroki Valley・Setagaya, Tokyo Todoroki valley is situated on the Musashino Plateau (武蔵野台地, musashinodaichi), making it an ideal place to observe various plants and terrain. Walking along the path you can see green parks, stone paved areas, Japanese gardens and buildings, waterfalls, and more. From 2:43 in the video, you can see the bridge "Riken no hashi" (利剣の橋), and from 2:56 we get a glimpse at the shrine "Inari Daimyoujin" (稲荷大明神). There is also an ancient burial mound built during the Kofun period (古墳時代, kofunjidai) (~250-538 AD) called Todoroki Keikoku Sangoouketu (等々力渓谷三号横穴) situated along the path. The Shrines and Temples of Todoroki Valley Photo：Todoroki Fudoson・Setagaya, Tokyo From 4:10 in the video, you can see Manganji temple (満願寺, manganji), Todoroki Fudoson temple (等々力不動尊), and Ryugosan Myououin temple (滝轟山明王院). You can visit the main temple buildings, bells, and enjoy the view from the observation deck. Many people visit these temples in search of luck in marriage and in studying. Another great place to visit while you're in Todoroki valley is the Japanese-style cafe, Setsugekka (雪月花) which can be seen in the video at 3:24. Summary of Todoroki Valley Photo：Inari Daimyojin・Todoroki Valley, Setagaya, Tokyo Todoroki valley is a wonderful spot to have a picnic, take a walk, or play by the river. There isn't a lot of lighting so please take care when visiting during poor weather or at night. Many people visit Todoroki valley on dates or to enjoy lunch at the cafe. For those sightseeing in Tokyo, we recommend booking a hotel and making the most of your trip by visiting the Todoroki valley area and enjoying a relaxing break from the city! ◆Todoroki Valley General Information◆ 【Address】Todoroki 1-22-2-37, Setagaya city, Tokyo 【Access】A 3-minute walk from the Tokyu Oimachi Line Todoroki Station, or a 5-minute walk from the Tokyu Bus or Toei Bus Todoroki Bus Stop. 【Admission fee】Free 【Hours】24 hours a day 【Closures】Open all year round 【Parking】Fudoson Parking Area (free) (不動尊駐車場, fudousonchuushajou) 【Toilets】Available 【Official Website】Todoroki Valley Park, Setagaya City Official Home Page https://www.city.setagaya.lg.jp/mokuji/kusei/012/015/001/004/d00004247.html 【Tripadvisor】Todoroki Valley https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066455-d1373670-Reviews-Todoroki_Valley-Setagaya_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Video Introduction to the English Tour of the Imperial Palace, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo This is an informational video released by "Tokyo MX" in 2018, introducing English tours of the Imperial Palace, a central city landmark that is gaining popularity among foreign visitors to Japan. Asakusa (浅草, Asakusa), Odaiba (お台場, Odaiba), Shibuya (渋谷, Shibuya) and Ueno (上野, Ueno) are famous for their central Tokyo attractions, but in recent years, the number of foreigners visiting the Imperial Palace has been on the rise. In response to the growing demand for inbound tours, the Imperial Household Agency, which oversees the Imperial Palace, has introduced English tours for foreigners for the first time, in addition to tours in Japanese. A Look at the Imperial Palace Photo：Near the palace The Imperial Palace is where the Emperor of Japan usually spends his time. It was called "Kyujo," "Kojo," and "Kogu" in the past. The current Imperial Palace, located in Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward (千代田区, Chiyodaku), is built around the ruins of Edo Castle and consists of the Imperial Palace, the residence of the Emperor, and a palace for various events and political affairs. The palace, introduced at 2:17 in the video includes seven buildings, including the Main Hall (正殿, Seiden), Homeiden State Banquet Hall (豊明殿, Homeiden), the Rensui Dining Room (連翠, Rensui), Chowaden Reception Hall (長和殿, Chowaden), Chigusa/Chidori no ma Hall (千種・千鳥の間,Chigusa・Chidorinoma), the Omote Gozasho North Building (表御座所北棟, Omotegozashokitato) and Omote Gozasho South Building (表御座所南棟, Omotegozashominamito). The Palace is surrounded by a moat, and the path along the moat is crowded with people on a daily basis. The English Tours of the Imperial Palace Source :YouTube screenshot The English-language tour will take you on a 2-kilometer course along the south side of the Palace. You can visit the Imperial Household Agency building and historical sites on foot with a guide from the Agency's staff. You can see an actual guide at 0:47 in the video. In this approximately one-hour tour, you can see a garden reminiscent of the Edo Period and the iron bridge at the main gate, along with Fujimi Tower(富士見櫓,Fujimiyagura) that stands atop a stone wall, and the palace where general New Year's ceremonies and other imperial events are held, as introduced at 1:29 in the video. The guide's explanations are easy to understand for foreign visitors to Japan, so don't be shy about joining in the tour. You can hear opinions of those who participated in the tour at 1:06 and 2:32 in the video. Summary of English Tours at the Imperial Palace Photo：Moat of the Imperial Palace The sights of the Imperial Palace shown in the video are definitely worth seeing in person. If you're thinking of applying for the English tour, be sure to visit the link at the bottom of this article to access the official site of the Imperial Palace. The site provides an overview of the English tour application process, a tour schedule, and a map of the facilities. ◆Imperial Palace Facility Information◆ 【Address】1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111 【Access】A 10-minute walk from Nijubashimae Station on the Chiyoda Subway Line, a 5-minute walk from Otemachi Station on the Mita Subway Line, a 5-minute walk from Takebashi Station on the Tozai Subway Line, and a 15-minute walk from JR Tokyo Station. 【Official Website】Imperial Household Agency: Information of the Facilities: Imperial Palace – Kyoto Imperial Palace https://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/english/index.html 【Tripadvisor】Imperial Palace https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066443-d320050-Reviews-Imperial_Palace-Chiyoda_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Introducing Kutani Ware! This article introduces Kutani ware alongside the video "Traditional Japanese Crafts・Kutani Ware Glazing" (日本の伝統工芸品・九谷焼の染め付け). Kutani ware started around the Edo Period (1603-1868) in Kanazawa city, Ishikawa in Japan's Hokuriku region. It was originally called Kokutani ware. Today, Komatsu-city, Kaga-city, and Noumi-city are famous for the production of Kutani ware. The piece in the video is by Kamide Chouzaemon, one of Japan's leading Kutani pottery makers. The video is only about a minute long, but it shows the amazing dyeing technique used to make the beautiful, traditional Japanese pottery. How Kutani Ware Is Made Source :YouTube screenshot The signature liquid cobalt oxide is used to dye Kutani ware, which gives us a feel for Japanese culture. Kutani ware is produced by using a thin brush to draw precise patterns which requires the skills of a master craftsman. Patterns are drawn on the Kutani ware, using the brown cobalt oxide as a base material, after which they are fired in a kiln. From there, the color of the brown cobalt oxide changes into a beautiful shade of blue. This method of painting Kutani ware using blue, green, yellow, purple, and red within its patterns is called Kutani Gosai. Where to Purchase the Kutani Ware Kutani ware, made by famous craftsmen and artists, is considered an art, and can be rather expensive. However, there is some Kutani ware sold at reasonable prices. Kutani ware can be viewed and purchased at museums and porcelain/ceramics markets in Kanazawa. They have Kutani ware bowls, small plates, teacups, china bowls, tea pots, vases, and more. You can buy different pieces and incorporate them into your daily life. Their products are also available on the internet through retailers such as Amazon and Rakuten. Enjoying a Kutani ware demo at a workshop also makes for a memorable experience. By adding Kutani ware to your table, you can appreciate Japanese traditional culture more deeply. Summary of Japan's Traditional Kutani Ware Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see in the video, each piece of Kutani ware is hand dyed by a craftsman. The dyeing process of Kutani ware has been handed down for hundreds of years. Be sure to watch the video to see the amazing craftsmanship of Kutani ware craftsmen.