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Japan
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Female
I have a strong interest in Japanese literature, and I spent my university years studying classical literature such as "The Tale of Genji" and "Tsurezuregusa," as well as modern and contemporary literature by Kenji Miyazawa, Natsume Soseki, Osamu Dazai and others.
For the theme of my graduation thesis, I chose Nagai Kaze's "A Strange Tale from East of the River," which depicts the atmosphere of good old downtown Tokyo.
After graduating, I moved to Kyoto, where I could enjoy the beautiful scenery unique to Japan, and while working as a writer for a tourist magazine in Kyoto, I studied hard for the Kyoto Proficiency Test, challenging myself to learn more about temples and shrines in Kyoto.
As a result of these efforts, I was able to obtain the highest level of the Kyoto Proficiency Test, Grade 1.
I am currently studying for the World Heritage Examination, expanding my interests to include all of Japan and other countries around the world.
In Japan, besides popular places that are registered as World Heritage sites, there also many hidden gems that only a handful of people know about.
I want to unravel the the history, culture, and popularity of many of these spots and introduce their beauty to you.
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Video article 5:06
Enjoy a Moment of Healing With the Fantastic Lights of Gifu Paper Lanterns from Gifu Prefecture! The Soft Glow of These Lanterns, Handcrafted by Skilled Artisans, Is Popular All Over the World!
Traditional Crafts- 242 plays
- YouTube
Gifu Paper Lanterns - A Traditional Culture of Gifu This video, titled "手技TEWAZA「岐阜提灯」gifu paper lantern/伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square," was released by Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square. Gifu paper lanterns are a traditional craft of Gifu City and have a long history, beginning since they were first made in the Edo period. A large amount of high-quality bamboo grows in Gifu Prefecture, and washi (Japanese paper) making has been popular in the region since ancient times. These are some of the reasons why Gifu paper lanterns have evolved so well as a traditional craft. Gifu paper lanterns were presented as gifts to the Owari domain (present-day Aichi Prefecture) during the Edo period. Gifu paper lanterns are also called Bon lanterns because they are used as lanterns during the Obon season. Gifu Paper Lanterns - A Traditional Craft Representing the Gifu Area Japan is home to many traditional crafts. Some have a deep history, others have developed together with the unique culture of the region, and others are handcrafted by artisans and designated as traditional crafts by the Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry. Gifu paper lanterns are one such craft that has been recognized for their value as a traditional craft representing Gifu prefecture and have been designated as traditional crafts by the Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry. Stylish Gifu Paper Lanterns In recent years, Isamu Noguchi has created a stylish light source called AKARI using traditional Gifu paper lanterns, which has attracted a lot of attention. "AKARI" can be purchased at online shops and other stores, so if you want to decorate your room with a traditional, yet innovative Japanese lantern, consider purchasing one. A Gifu Paper Lantern Painting Experience One of the characteristics of Gifu paper lanterns is that they are made from Mino washi and other specialties of the Gifu region. The thin washi paper is beautifully patterned and then affixed to a flexible bamboo frame. If you're traveling in Gifu, why not try your hand at Gifu paper lantern painting? The artisans who make Gifu paper lanterns will carefully instruct you on how to decorate them, so you can have an enjoyable experience. Summary of Gifu Paper Lanterns Gifu paper lanterns are a great item for those looking to enjoy the unique culture of Japan. As you can see from the video, Gifu paper lanterns are made through the skills of traditional artisans. Gifu paper lanterns are a specialty of Gifu. Some of these traditional items can be purchased at surprisingly reasonable prices, so be sure to look into buying some if you're searching for souvenirs or want to decorate your home. -
Video article 5:41
Kenshibu: A Traditional Japanese Performing Art That Combines Beauty and Spirit! Watch Closely as the "Kenshibu Super Team" Performs Their Prestigious "Kenshibu Dance"!
Traditional Culture- 62 plays
- YouTube
The Kenshibu Super Team's Amazing Performance Video! This video, titled "Kenshibu Super Team|Promotional Video 'PASSION ~ Like a Blaze ~'," was released by the "Japan Ginkenshibu Foundation." Ginkenshibu, a traditional Japanese performing art, is a combination of two art forms: sword dancing and poetry. The Japan Ginkenshibu Foundation, introduced in the video, continues to promote the appeal of Ginkenshibu, a traditional Japanese performing art, through teaching Ginkenshibu and organizing stage performances and national competitions. A Closer Look at Kenshibu, a Traditional Japanese Performing Art Source :YouTube screenshot The history of Ginkenshibu, the traditional Japanese performing art introduced in the video, dates back more than 100 years, and is said to have started when a samurai in the Edo period (1603-1868) danced whilst holding a sword. It was not until the Meiji period (1868-1912) that Hibino Raifu shaped the style of the current sword dance based on the forms used in Japanese swordsmanship. In most cases, different characters are in charge of the sword dance, which is performed brilliantly with the movements of kenjutsu and iaijutsu, and the poetry dance, which incorporates the techniques of Chinese poetry, Japanese Waka poetry, shigin, and Japanese music. The performance may be performed by two people who do the sword dance and poetry dance or done by a large number of performers. The characteristic of the traditional Japanese performing art, Kenshibu, is that swords and fans are used in the performances. Performers of the traditional performing art, Kenshibu, are required to have the spirit of Bushido, the spirit and dignity of a samurai. From 0:44 of the video, you can see the powerful Kenshibu performance. The Kenshibu Super Team Source :YouTube screenshot The Kenshibu Super Team is a project started to raise the next generation of Kenshibu artists while inheriting the techniques of the traditional Japanese performing art. Kenshibu Super Team's Shoko Shibata is a member of the Japan Soshinryu and started the traditional performing art Kenshibu when he was in elementary school. The highly skilled members of the team, including Shoko Shibata, Irikura Shouou, Gaikou Sotome, Houyo Kutsukawa, Yuuyo Sugiura, and Bishin Nagasawa; perform the Kenshibai Super Team performance "PASSION ~ Like a flame ~" introduced in the video at the beginning of this article. Many spectators are mesmerized by the dynamic and intense movements of Kenshibu. Summary of the Kenshibu Super Team Source :YouTube screenshot The Kenshibu Super Team is a fascinating organization that arranges and performs Kenshibu, a traditional Japanese performing art, in a contemporary style. If you want to experience traditional Japanese culture, be sure to check out the performance of the Kenshibu Super Team! 【Official Website】Kenshibu Super Team - Japan Ginkenshibu Foundation http://www.ginken.or.jp/index.php/en/top-en/ -
Video article 3:48
Japanese Hollywood Actress Sukezane Kiki's Beautiful Sword Fighting Captivates Fans All Over the World! A Look Inside Her Suitcase for a Glimpse at Her Private Life!
Celebrities Entertainment & Music- 77 plays
- YouTube
Introducing Hollywood Actress Sukezane Kiki! This video, titled "Sukezane Kiki Prepares for Her Trip! What's Inside the Hollywood Actress' Suitcase?!" (ハリウッド女優の豪快な旅支度。祐真キキのスーツケースの中身とは?), was released by "VOGUE JAPAN." Sukezane Kiki is attracting worldwide attention as an actress who achieved the American Dream. What kind of talent is the Japanese Hollywood actress who has starred in hit American TV dramas? In this article we'll take a look at her career and what she's up to, as well as what's inside her suitcase! The Career and Activities of Sukezane Kiki! Source :YouTube screenshot Sukezane Kiki, real name Sukezane Kie, is a Hollywood actress from Kyoto. During her second year of high school, she moved to the United States alone, where she worked on humanitarian and environmental issues. When she was 23, she moved to Los Angeles, auditioning for a wide range of roles. Then, in 2015, she gained popularity when she was selected to play Miko Otomo, a main role in the American NBC TV drama "HEROES REBORN." She reportedly learned English through her boyfriend's after moving to the US, but they have apparently separated and she now lives with a different man. In 2019, it was reported that she was diagnosed with acoustic neuroma and had surgery to remove a tumor. Sukezane Kiki's Overseas Activities! Source :YouTube screenshot Sukezane Kiki, with her bewitching looks, has appeared in movies, dramas, and commercials, including the popular American TV drama series "HEROES REBORN." One of the charms of Sukezane Kiki is her beautiful, dance-like sword fighting and action moves. Sukezane Kiki comes from a family of Kyoto samurai, and she's no stranger to action filming. Sukezane Kiki appears in "HEROES REBORN" as well as in the Netflix drama "Lost in Space." Be sure to check it out! he video showcases the contents of Sukezane Kiki's suitcase when she went overseas. It's packed full of various things, such as her party bag shown at 1:08, and the alarm clock at 1:22. There are also scripts, souvenirs, sweets, and fashionable makeup tools. Summary of Sukezane Kiki Source :YouTube screenshot Did you enjoy learning about Sukezane Kiki, the popular Japanese actress active in Hollywood? You can find out more about Sukezane Kiki's personal life on her Instagram. Be sure to check out the popular Japanese actress Sukezane Kiki! -
Video article 6:44
Ki&Ki - A Female Shamisen Duo Performing Modern Arrangements of Traditional Japanese Music. Watch as They Perform "Tsugaru Jongara Bushi," a Popular Japanese Folk Song!
Traditional Culture Entertainment & Music- 618 plays
- YouTube
The Tsugaru Shamisen Duo "Ki&Ki" This video, titled "Shamisen Girls Ki&Ki - Tsugaru Jongara Bushi," was uploaded by "Shamisen in Tokyo." The Tsugaru-shamisen musicians introduced in the video are a popular female musical duo called Ki&Ki (KiKi) from Japan. The group is composed of two members, Hikari Shirafuji (白藤ひかり) and Kanami Takeda (武田佳泉), who continue to release modern pieces of music performed on the traditional Tsugaru-shamisen. The Music of Ki&Ki Source :YouTube screenshot Ki&Ki, formed in 2008, is a musical duo of Tsugaru-shamisen performers. Both members have taken first place in numerous Tsugaru-shamisen competitions all over Japan. Ki&Ki perform a variety of music, from the traditional folk music Tsugaru Jongara Bushi to more modern music with rock and pop influences. They also perform cover songs as well as performing their own original music. There are various style of Tsugaru Jongara Bushi, including "Kyu-bushi" (旧節, a high-tempo style) and "Shin-bushi" (新節, a style sung with a quick tempo). Ki&Ki perform a style called "Shin-kyu-bushi" which is a combination of the two previous styles and is extremely popular among fans. Check Out Ki&Ki Band! Source :YouTube screenshot Ki&Ki Band is a five member group composed of the original Ki&Ki duo, together with Tatsuya Itou (伊藤辰哉) on piano, Keisuke Shimada (島田圭佑) on bass, and Yasuhito Sakairi (坂入康仁) on drums. It's hard to believe the band's powerful music is performed on traditional Japanese instruments! Prepare to be captivated by the delicate yet powerful sound of Ki&Ki Band, a sound like no other that will keep you coming back for more! Experience Playing the Tsugaru-Shamisen! Source :YouTube screenshot The Tsugaru-shamisen is a traditional Japanese instrument that originating in Aomori prefecture (青森県) and dating back to the Bakumatsu (end of the Edo period, 1853 AD-1869 AD). The first Tsugaru-shamisen was made by the Buddhist monk Nitabo (仁太坊). In recent years, more and more artists are performing modern arrangements of Shamisen music and the music genre is growing in popularity. Due to the growing popularity of Tsugaru-shamisen music, the number of schools offering Tsugaru-shamisen playing experiences has also been on the rise. The lessons are suitable for complete beginners so no need to worry if you have no experience playing the Tsugaru-shamisen. Have fun trying to play your favorite music and feel free to sing along! Summary of the Tsugaru-Shamisen Source :YouTube screenshot Many people think of the Tsugaru-shamisen as a traditional instrument for playing traditional Japanese music, however, as you can see in the video, a growing number of artists are performing more modern arrangements that appeal to larger audiences. If you enjoyed watching the Tsugaru-shamisen performance, why not experience playing the traditional Japanese instrument yourself by taking a lesson or two at a school near you! 【Official Website】Tsugaru-Shamisen Ki&Ki https://www.shamisenkiki.com/ -
Video article 10:27
Japan’s Traditional Form of Entertainment, Kabuki, Now Popular Even in Las Vegas! The Traditional Performing Art That Has Been Loved in Japan Since Long Ago Now Captures the Hearts of Foreigners as Well!
Traditional Culture- 158 plays
- YouTube
Introducing Japan’s kabuki production “Shi-Shi-O”! This video, “Wonder Kabuki Spectacle『獅子王SHI-SHI-O』in Las Vegas,” depicts scenes from the 2016 Las Vegas performance of Japan’s kabuki production “Shi-Shi-O.” Following the success of the 2015 performance of “Koitsugami”(鯉つかみ, Koitsugami), less than a year later, the next performance “Shi-Shi-O” was revealed. The performance, combined with a fountain show, was magnificent sight, capturing the hearts of the audience at the MGM Grand. What Is Kabuki? Source :YouTube screenshot Kabuki is a type of traditional Japanese theatre, long-beloved by the commoners of the country. Kabuki’s roots trace all the way back to Kyoto during the Warring States Period (1467-1615), originating from a dance form created by Izumo no Okuni. At the time, this form of dance was known as “katamuki (傾き)”, with the performers being known as “katamuki-mono (傾き者).” Women’s kabuki, young boy’s kabuki, men’s kabuki and more – the types of kabuki increased as the years passed. The performers’ roles camed to be labeled as male characters (男型, otokogata), female characters (女形, onnagata), and protagonists (立役, tachiyaku). The traditional art of kabuki is now registered as an Important Intangible Cultural Property. Modern kabuki performances incorporate dynamic stage effects, featuring water, fire, acrobatics, quick character changes and more. These effects draw loud cheers from the audience. The Story of “Shi-Shi-O” Source :YouTube screenshot The story of “Shi-Shi-O” is derived from the Japanese legend “Stone Bridge” (石橋, Ishibashi). “Shi-Shi-O” tells the story of the offspring of the lion that appeared in the original legend. The story is set at Mount Seiryo, Tenjiku (天竺清涼山, Tenjiku Seiryo-zan). Shi-Shi-O, the lion king serving the deity Monju (文殊菩薩, Monju bosatsu), devises a monster extermination trial for his offspring. His offspring change into human forms to carry out their trial and retrieve their treasure. The performance incorporates special effects such as the wire action seen at 2:48 in the video, as well as dynamic acting bristling with energy. From 9:00, you can see the standing ovation and excited reactions of the audience at the end of the performance. The Actors Who Appeared in “Shi-Shi-O” Source :YouTube screenshot Some of Japan’s most famous kabuki actors appear in Shi-Shi-O. For example, Ichikawa Somegoro (市川染五郎), interviewed at 9:36 in the video, as well as Nakamura Karoku (中村歌六), Ichikawa Komazo (市川高麗蔵), Nakamura Kasho (中村歌昇), Otani Tomoemon (大谷廣太郎), Nakamura Yonekichi (中村米吉), and Nakamura Hayato (中村隼人). “Shi-Shi-O,” the product of numerous rehearsals and brought to life by these popular kabuki actors, is truly a spectacular sight. Other than “Shi-Shi-O,” in recent years, many kabuki actors have taken part in novel performances both in Japan and overseas. In recent years, the show “Nausica,” based on the Ghibli film, as well as a kabuki show based on the hugely popular manga and anime “One Piece,” have garnered much attention. Summary of the Overseas Performance of Shi-Shi-O Photo:Kabuki-za Theater In Japan, there are many famous kabuki actors; the most famous being Ichikawa Ebizo (市川海老蔵). If you visit theaters such as Kabuki-za (歌舞伎座, Kabuki-za), you can view these awe-inspiring kabuki performances in person. If you're interested in watching a Kabuki performance after reading this article, be sure to check out prices and locations for your visit to Japan or Vegas! Ticket prices are surprisingly reasonable, and even those watching kabuki for the first time are sure to enjoy their experience. 【Official Website】Kabuki Official Website https://www.kabukiweb.net/ -
Video article 3:49
The Beautiful Cutlery of Sakai, Osaka - The Appeal of Osaka's Traditional Craft and How the Blades Are Made!
Traditional Crafts- 144 plays
- YouTube
Sakai, Osaka - A City Known for Its Traditional Japanese Cutlery This video, titled "手技TEWAZA「堺打刃物」Japan Sakai Forged Knife/伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square" introduces Osaka's Sakai cutlery. The video was released by Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square. Sakai knives are produced in Sakai, Osaka. Blacksmiths in Sakai forge beautiful knives that are truly works of art. The city of Sakai has developed together with the traditional culture of knife-making. The History and Culture of Sakai Cutlery, a Traditional Japanese Craft Source :YouTube screenshot The history of Sakai cutlery dates back to the 16th century. Tobacco was introduced from Portugal around this time, and tobacco knives for chopping tobacco leaves began to be made in Sakai, Osaka. In the Edo Period (1603-1867), the shogunate granted the city a seal of quality certification and allowed the city to sell these knives exclusively, making Sakai famous as a major producer of cutlery. Even today, there are many factories in Sakai that manufacture a wide variety of knives, including deba bocho knives. How Traditional Sakai Knives Are Made Source :YouTube screenshot The manufacturing process of Sakai knives is roughly divided into three parts: forging, sharpening, and patterning, each of which is performed by a different craftsman. After casting the raw metal, blacksmiths use annealing, quenching, and tempering techniques to increase the hardness and sharpness of the blade. The techniques used for Sakai cutlery are used to make deba bocho (fish cutting knives), chef's knives, and even scissors and other bladed tools. In this video, you can see the welding at 0:33, rough grinding at 1:54, and sharpening from 2:22. The techniques used in Sakai cutlery are used not only for making deba bocho and chef's knives, but also for making scissors. Purchasing High-Quality Sakai Cutlery Source :YouTube screenshot If you're looking to purchase high-quality Sakai cutlery, opt for a prestigious brand. Today, there are more than 20 traditional artisans in the world of Sakai cutlery who continue to make high quality knives. Recommended brands include Sakai Ichiji, Kamoshita and Naojiro. Knives forged by master artisans are different from the ones you'll find in a department store. You can buy Sakai cutlery in stores as well as online, so choose one that fits your purposes and price range. Be sure to utilize the Sakai Cutlery Material Laboratory (堺刃物素材研究所), which sells and refinishes Sakai cutlery. You can see a completed Sakai knife at 3:10 in the video. Summary of Sakai Cutlery Source :YouTube screenshot As shown in the video, Sakai Cutlery is a traditional craft produced by the craftsmen of Sakai, Osaka. The knife industry in Osaka is supported by the skilled craftsmanship of blacksmiths. Be sure to purchase a high-quality Sakai knife to experience the epitome of sharpness. -
Video article 31:16
Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura - Performed With the Same Intensity of Adult Actors, This Kabuki Performance by Shintomi-za Children's Kabuki in Tokyo Is Something You Don't Want To Miss!
Traditional Culture- 225 plays
- YouTube
A Look at Shintomi-za Children's Kabuki This video, titled "[Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura|Yoshinoyama] Shintomi-za Children's Kabuki|Annual Dedication Performance|Heisei 30" (「義経千本桜 吉野山」 平成30年 新富座こども歌舞伎 例大祭奉納公演), was produced by "machihito." Shintomi-za Children's Kabuki was established in 2007 (the 19th year of the Heisei period) to provide children in the community of Chuo Ward (中央区, Chuo-Ku), Tokyo, with an opportunity to experience the performing arts of their hometowns. Every year during the Setsubun Festival in February and the Annual Festival in May, the children dedicate popular performances, such as "Shiranami Gonin Otoko" (Benten Kozō) at the Kagura hall of Teppozu Inari Shrine. The video shows a 30-minute performance of the Shintomi-za Children's Kabuki's annual dedication performance. It's well worth the watch, so be sure to check it out. The History of Shintomi-za Children's Kabuki Source :YouTube screenshot Shintomi-za Children's Kabuki was originally founded in 1875 as a stock company theater renamed from Morita-za. In 1872, it moved to Shintomi (新富町) and was officially renamed to Shintomi-za. In April 2007, local children gathered to form Shintomi-za Children's Kabuki, and on February 3, 2008, they presented "Sanninkichi Satomoeno Shiranami." The Child Actors of Shintomi-za Children's Kabuki Source :YouTube screenshot The child actors who participate in Shintomi-za Children's Kabuki are chosen from children who attend Taimei Elementary School and other schools in the Ginza (銀座) area. The children rehearse music and performances in preparation for the big event. On the day of the show, they wear traditional costumes and makeup to perform on stage. It's very difficult for children to study the old Japanese language and express the uniqueness of Kabuki with their movements. However, the video shows the children performing a highly advanced performance with a great deal of skill. The performance is filmed in full and starts from 1:13 in the video, so enjoy the show! The Story of Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura Photo:Ningyo-Joruri Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura (Yoshitsune and the Thousand Cherry Trees) is a Ningyo-Joruri (traditional Japanese puppet theatre) and Kabuki performance. The story depicts the tragedy of the Heike warlords who survived after the Genpei War (a battle between the Taira and Minamoto clans) and those who were involved. The fourth chapter depicts the journey of Shizuka Gozen and Tadanobu Sato on their way to Yoshino. This performance is rather long, but has a fascinating story that draws in the crowd. "Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura" has been made into Japanese film and stage play, and has been performed by famous Kabuki actors such as Danjuro Ichikawa. Summary of the Shintomi-za Children's Kabuki Source :YouTube screenshot In addition to Shintomi-za Children's Kabuki, Shintomi-za also hosts events such as Terakoya. If you want to experience traditional Japanese art and culture, be sure to check out information regarding Shintomi-za Children's Kabuki and consider buying tickets to the next performance! -
Video article 4:22
Enjoy Outdoor Activities With Your Pup at Wonderful Nature Village in Akiruno, Tokyo! One of the Largest Dog Runs in Tokyo, This Place Is Filled With Dog-Friendly Facilities!
Things to Do- 119 plays
- YouTube
A Look at Wonderful Nature Village! This is a video titled "Wonderful Nature Village Promotional Video" (わんダフルネイチャーヴィレッジプロモーション映像), created by "Wonderful Nature Village." Wonderful Nature Village is an outdoor facility inside Akikawa Kyuryo, located next to Tokyo Summer Land in Akiruno, Tokyo. The expansive grounds include a dog run, as well as facilities such as a dog pool, hiking trails and a campground. Wonderful Nature Village is the perfect outdoor complex for those who want to spend a fun-filled day playing with their dogs. The Facilities at Wonderful Nature Park Source :YouTube screenshot The dog run at Wonderful Nature Village, one of the biggest dog runs in Tokyo, is incredibly popular. Not only does it have an all dog area, but also a medium and large dog area, a small dog area, and a covered area, so you and your pal can make all different kinds of friends. The dog pool featured at "Wonderful Point 6" at 3:24 in the video includes a dog beach and doggy pool where you and your pal can play with fountains and cascading water. At "Wonderful Point 1," shown at 0:25 in the video, features a pathway made of Oya stones that don't get hot on hot summer days. The Activities at Wonderful Nature Village Source :YouTube screenshot At Wonderful Nature Village there's a Lakeside Auto Camping Field and Hilltop Auto Camping Field where you can stay with your pet, a spot for canoeing/kayaking, sport fishing and regular fishing, and a kids' area where kids can play in the athletic areas for hours of fun. If you want to enjoy the seasonal scenery of Wonderful Nature Village, you can take your dog on the 2 km hiking trail featured at 2:23 in the video. You'll also find dog-friendly facilities such as dog stations, showers, and a poop box at the park. Enjoy a Wonderful Time at Wonderful Nature Village! Source :YouTube screenshot Shown at 3:46 in the video, Wonderful Nature Village also has BBQ pits where you can bring your own food and enjoy a delicious day of barbecuing! There is also the cafe/restaurant, AZEKIRI, where you can enjoy a menu that uses locally produced vegetables. The dishes made with locally grown ingredients from Tama are exquisite. There is also a souvenir shop in the park, so if you're interested in buying goods for your dog, be sure to stop by. Summary of Wonderful Nature Village Photo:Dog run Wonderful Nature Village has a lot of facilities for the whole family to enjoy. It has a good reputation and is a popular tourist spot in Tokyo. The reputation is really good and it is a popular sightseeing spot in Tokyo. You can enjoy the facilities even on rainy days, so you can play without worrying about the weather. If you're looking for some fun for you and your pup and/or family, be sure to drop by! ◆Information◆ 【Address】600 Shiraiwa, Kamiyotsuki, Akiruno, Tokyo 【Access】30 minutes bus ride from JR Hachioji Station 【Admission fee】850 yen for adults, 450 yen for children and 850 yen for dogs. (450 yen for 【second and after dog) 【Hours】10 am to 5 pm (depends on season) 【Closures】Every Thursdays 【Parking】Available. 700 spots (700 yen/car) 【Phone number】042-558-5861 【Official Website】Wonderful Nature Village! https://www.wnv.tokyo/ -
Video article 3:31
A Close Look At the Master Craftsmanship of Japan's Temple & Shrine Carpenters! Discover the Amazing Traditional Japanese Technique of Building Without Using Nails
Art & Architecture Traditional Culture- 901 plays
- YouTube
Japan's Temple & Shrine Carpenters This video, titled "In Japan, Repairing Buildings Without a Single Nail," was uploaded by "Great Big Story." It introduces a traditional Japanese temple and shrine carpenter, called "Miyadaiku" (宮大工) in Japanese, from Kamakura (鎌倉). Japanese temple and shrine carpenters specialize in temples and shrines and construct/repair traditional buildings. Some of the craftsmen work on the construction and repair of historical buildings, such as Japan's national treasures and world heritage sites. Japan's temple and shrine carpenters must possess a high-level of skill and knowledge to repair traditional buildings. A building repaired by Japan's Miyadaiku carpenters allows the beautiful architecture of Japan to remain the work of art that it is. This article covers some of the amazing traditional techniques of Japan's temple and shrine carpenters and their journey to becoming full-fledged craftsmen. Kigumi - A Traditional Carpentry Technique Used by Japan's Miyadaiku Carpenters Photo:Kigumi, traditional Japanese architecture Some wooden architecture in Japan, including temples and shrines, is built by assembling wooden materials together as though it were one large 3d puzzle. This method is called the "Kigumi" method, meaning "wooden framework." This impressive craftsmanship can be seen from 0:21 in the video. The traditional skill of framing and jointing wood, characterized by very precise cutting and coupling of wood, requires countless hours of training and experience as a Miyadaiku carpenter. Traditional Japanese architecture is made possible thanks to the high-quality craftsmanship of Japan's temple and shrine carpenters. The Long Road to Becoming a Miyadaiku Carpenter Photo:A wooden shrine, traditional Japanese architecture Acquiring the skills of a Miyadaiku carpenter requires on-the-job training, so the first step is to become an apprentice at a workshop or construction firm and learn the repair processes and traditional methods used by observing the skills of a master Miyadaiku carpenter up close. The history of Miyadaiku carpenters dates back more than a thousand years. In the past, Japan's temple and shrine carpenters were referred to as "Wataridaiku," and they lived in areas with many shrines and temples, working from one location to the next. Miyadaiku carpenters also repair historic World Heritage buildings and prominent national treasures, such as the one's you'd find in Kyoto. Thus, Miyadaiku carpenters are required to have advanced knowledge in various fields, not just architecture, but religious studies as well. Summary of Japan's Traditional Miyadaiku Carpenters Photo:A wooden temple being built Miya-Daiku carpenters have been repairing Japan's temples and shrines since ancient times with their advanced skills that can be used to construct wooden buildings without the use of nails. This traditional Japanese culture is handed down from one generation of craftsmen to the next. It's no secret that all of Japan's beautiful temples and shrines look like the amazing works of art they art thanks to the amazing craftsmanship of Japan's Miyadaiku carpenters. -
Video article 2:08
Kirikane: A Japanese Technique That Uses Gold Leaf to Draw Patterns on Buddhist Decorations. Check Out the Beautiful Craftsmanship in These Works of Art Created by Highly Skilled Artisans!
Traditional Crafts- 355 plays
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Kirikane - A Traditional Japanese Decorative Technique This video, titled "Japanese Craftsmanship: Japanese Crafts "Kirikane" (Japanese Craftsmanship:日本の匠「截金」), was produced by "Japanese Craftsmanship." It introduces the culture of Kirikane, a traditional Japanese craft. Kirikane is a decorative technique that involves cutting thinly stretched gold or silver foil into small pieces and creating patterns while pasting them to an object. Since ancient times, kirikane has been essential for decorating Buddhist statues and paintings as well as for decorating spirit tablets. Kirikane is an indispensable traditional Japanese technique in the world of Buddhist art. The History of Kirikane, a Traditional Japanese Craft Source :YouTube screenshot It's estimated that kirikane was already being used for the decoration of tableware, Buddhist statues, and decorative boxes in Asian countries in the pre-era (BC). In Japan, too, kirikane came to be used for carving Buddhist statues and making Buddhist paintings from around the Nara Period (710-794) onward. It's only in Japan, however, that kirikane culture has been inherited for traditional crafts despite thousands of years of history. To date, three people, Baitei Saita, Daizo Nishide, and Sayoko Eri, have been designated as Important Intangible Cultural Properties (Living National Treasures) in the art of kirikane. These three kirikane craftsmen were recognized for their mastery of advanced kirikane techniques and their efforts to spread the culture of kirikane. The Traditional Japanese Craft, Kirikane - How It's Made Source :YouTube screenshot Kirikane artisans first create patterns with motifs of nature, plants, and animals, which are then repeated geometrically. They then bake four sheets of foil as thin as 1/10,000th of a millimeter, burn them together, cut them carefully, and attach them according to the prepared pattern. The cutting and attaching can be seen at 0:46 in the video. On top of gold and silver foil, platinum foil is sometimes used for kirikane as well. The skill of master artisans is indispensable in creating beautiful kirikane works of art. Experience Traditional Kirikane Source :YouTube screenshot If you'd like to experience the traditional culture of kirikane, we recommend visiting a shop that sells traditional crafts or checking out a kirikane exhibit. There are many different types of kirikane works of art, such as decorative boxes and tools. Many pieces made using traditional Japanese crafts are expensive, but some of can be found for surprisingly reasonable prices, so be sure to check them out if you're looking for gifts or souvenirs. We recommend attending a class where you can experience traditional Japanese kirikane and learn about the history and techniques of the craft. Summary of Kirikane, a Traditional Japanese Craft Source :YouTube screenshot Kirikane is indispensable to Japanese Buddhist art culture and traditional crafts as a whole. You can see various kirikane works at 1:55 in the video. The appeal of kirikane lies in its elegant beauty. Kirikane works are also available for purchase, so if you're interested in these high-quality items, be sure to check them out.