Official Author

坂崎 なお（Nao Sakazaki）

Aizu Misato-cho, Onuma-gun, Fukushima Prefecture "Production of Aizu Hongo Pottery" Video Introduction This video, titled "【会津本郷焼】継承されていく伝統と歴史 /【Aizu Hongouyaki】The tradition and history that are passed down for generations," was created by "Aizu-Hongo Ware Association" (会津本郷焼組合). The video introduces the history and crafting process of the Aizu area's traditional craft, Aizu-hongo Ware. The video is only 3 minutes long, so for those interested in Japanese traditional culture, how pottery is made, or just want to admire some beautiful works of art, definitely check it out! The History of Aizu-Hongo Ware Source :YouTube screenshot Aizu-Hongo Ware originates from the town Aizumisato, near Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle in Fukushima Prefecture in the Tohoku region of Japan. Aizu-Hongo Ware was already being created by the 16th century, leading to it being known as the oldest pottery tradition in Japan's Tohoku region. The pottery pieces are made using high-quality Okubo clay. The clay used for decorating the pieces is also made from materials gathered in the region. This is one of the special characteristics of Aizu-Hongo Ware. Aizu-Hongo Ware is created through traditional methods involving the use of a potter’s wheel, as shown from 1:19 in the video. The high quality and exquisite beauty of the pieces has led to Aizu-Hongo Ware being designated a Traditional Craft of Japan. How To Create Aizu-Hongo Ware Source :YouTube screenshot There are many kilns for making Aizu-Hongo Ware in the Aizu region. The pieces created by the Kamomoto craftsmen are beautiful enough to be called works of art. In the Aizu region, there are many pottery classes and pottery-making experiences available. Through creating Aizu-Hongo Ware, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. Besides visiting the Aizu region itself, you can also purchase pottery pieces online. As shown from 2:26 in the video, there are various types of products that can be used in daily life, such as mugs, bowls, coffee cups, Japanese teacups and more. Be sure to check them out if you're interested. Summary of Aizu-Hongo Ware Source :YouTube screenshot Aizu-Hongo Ware is a deep-rooted tradition of the Aizu region, with a long, rich history. If you have the chance to visit Aizumisato, not only can you learn more about this traditional craft, but you can also view the beautiful Japanese landscapes of the region. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture through Aizu-Hongo Ware!

Video introduction of a three-dimensional village tea garden in the Okubo community of Mori-machi, Shuchi-gun, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. This video, titled "03 Okubo. Tea plantations Lining the Rolling Hills (Morimachi, Shizuoka)" (03 大久保 立体集落の茶園（静岡県森町）), was produced by "静岡県森町Morimachi Tourism." It shows the breathtaking views of the tea plantations lining the hills of Morimachi (森町), Shizuoka Prefecture, in the Tokai region. Shizuoka Prefecture is famous as a tea-producing district in Japan, and there are many tea farmers in the area. Okubo, located at the foot of Mt. Fuji and known for its mild climate, has scenic tea plantations lining the hills of villages. The Beautiful Scenery of Okubo's Tea Plantations Source :YouTube screenshot Featured in the video at 0:45, you can see a scenic view of the tea plantations where Shizuoka tea is produced, via aerial footage. Okubo is also called the "Little Kyoto in Enshu" because of the beautiful nature and traditions that remain from the old days of Japan. Okubo once prospered from "Akiba-mode," a pilgrimage to Akihasan Hongu Akiha Shrine in Hamamatsu City (浜松市) Shizuoka Prefecture, and the salt trade around Lake Hamana (浜名湖). The area around the Sengoku Yume Kaido (Sengoku Yume Highway), shown at 1:13 in the video, has many historical sites remaining from the Warring States Period. Also Mt. Sanmaru, featured at 1:05, creates a beautiful natural landscape as it overlooks the village. Traditional Events in Okubo, Shizuoka Source :YouTube screenshot The Summer Festival in Okubo, introduced at 1:24 in the video, is a popular summer tradition in the Okubo, Morimachi, Shizuoka. The parade of floats through the Tea plantations on the hills of Okubo brings on a feeling of tradition. Tea plantations coupled with music and taiko drums echoing among the nature-rich mountains will have you feeling like you're in a Japan of the past. If you want to experience the beauty Japan's landscapes, be sure to make your way out to the village to see the festival. Summary of Okubo, Shizuoka's Tea Fields Source :YouTube screenshot The video introduces the amazing scenery of Okubo, Shizuoka's tea plantations. The scenic view of the endless tea plantations on the gentle hillsides is great for Instagram as well. For those looking to take a relaxing trip to some of Japan's lesser known sightseeing destinations, consider visiting the tea plantations lining the hills of Okubo, Shizuoka!

Introducing Ikaho Onsen! This video, titled "Ikaho Onsen Promotion (Ikaho Onsen Ryokan Cooperative Association)" (伊香保温泉プロモーション（伊香保温泉旅館協同組合）), uploaded by "Ikaho Onsen Ryokan Cooperative Association" (伊香保温泉旅館協同組合). The video introduces Ikaho Onsen in Gunma Prefecture, in Japan's Kanto region, which has a history dating back roughly 400 years. Stone Steps introduced from 0:32 in the video is a popular site at Ikaho Onsen. There are Japanese inns, hotels, and souvenir stores dotted around the area. Stone Steps is the perfect place to explore Ikaho Onsen. The Highlights and History of Ikaho Onsen Photo：A drinking fountain at Ikaho Onsen, Gunma Prefecture Ikaho Onsen, located in Ikahomachi, Shibukawa, Gunma is one of the most famous hot springs in the prefecture, along with Kusatsu Onsen. Ikaho Onsen was discovered between 1900 and 1300 years ago, and the name can be found in the Manyoshu as well." We recommend stopping by Ikaho Shrine, Kogane no yu, Ougon no Yu Komaguchi, and Ikaho Rotenburo, which can be seen from 1:32 in the video. The Ikaho Ropeway, shown from 2:33 in the video, will take you up to the observatory where you can see the view from the Tokimeki Deck. It's a great way to relax and take in the scenery. Hotels Around Ikaho Onsen Photo：Hot springs at a ryokan Ikaho Onsen is sulfate spring with many hotels and business hotels, such as Hotel Tenbo and Hotel Kogure. There are hotels that provide private rooms with bathrooms and private baths that emphasize barrier-free access. There are also hot springs that can be used for day trips. Popular Locations and Food Around Ikaho Onsen Photo：Kajika Bridge During spring, cherry blossoms can be enjoyed at Shibukawashi Park and Nagamine Park, and in the summer you'll find fresh greenery. As you can see from 2:06, Kajika Bridge is full of nature and the leaves turn to beautiful shades of red and yellow in the fall. You can also enjoy ice skating during winter at Ikaho Ice Rink. We recommend stopping by Art Gallery Toukuro (伊香保陶句郎窯), Ikaho Hoshina Art Museum, and Ikaho Forest Park. You can also enjoy specialty foods such as "Mizusawa udon" which is one of the Japan's top three udon noodles, "Yu-no-Hana Manju," the origin of hot spring buns, Shibukawa's famous sweet "Koganeimo," and "Okkirikomi," a local specialty. Summary of Ikaho Onsen Photo：Ikaho Onsen, Gunma Prefecture As you can see in the video, Ikaho Onsen is full of relaxing scenery. If you're looking for an amazing, yet relaxing holiday, we recommend stopping by Ikaho Onsen. There are other hot springs, such as Akagi Onsen and Onogami Onsen, so we recommend looking up transportation access to these as well. 【Official Website】Shibukawa-Ikaho Onsen Tourism Association https://www.ikaho-kankou.com/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Ikaho Onsen https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021199-d1424017-Reviews-Ikaho_Onsen-Shibukawa_Gunma_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Introducing Izumo, Shimane! This 4K video, titled "Izumo, Japan 4K (Ultra HD)" (Izumo, Japan 4K (Ultra HD) - 出雲) introduces the popular tourist destination of Izumo, Shimane in Japan's Chugoku region. The video was created by "Izumo JAPAN." There are so many popular tourists spots in Izumo, including the famous Izumo Taisha (Izumo Grand Shrine). Let’s start off with Izumo Taisha and experience the traditional Japanese culture. This 4K video shows you the beautiful scenery of Izumo, as well as the tradition, gourmet food, and beautiful natural scenery. Be sure to follow along with the video as you read all about the mythical town of Izumo! The Historical Izumo Taisha Photo：Izumo Taisha Izumo Taisha is the most popular tourist destination in Izumo. Every October, a myriad of gods are welcomed to Izumo, in an event that attracts many visitors. Check out the video at 0:28 to see a quick clip of it. Izumo is known as the "Home of Japanese mythology." "Yamatano Orochi" is a myth that has been passed down in Japan since ancient times. Tourist Spots in Izumo, Shimane Photo：Izumo Hinomisaki Light House One of the best views in Izumo is the panoramic view of the Japan Sea. To see it, just head over to Izumo Hinomisaki Coast. Check out the video at 1:20 to see a beautiful scene of the light house reflecting the sunset. You can also take a stroll along Inasa Beach, or Sagiura, where you can enjoy the natural scenery and visit Tachikue Valley. Kabuki is also popular in Shimane, so if you're looking to see some traditional theatre be sure to check it out. There's also Izumo no Okuni, a tomb near Izumo Taisha. Gourmet Food and Local Specialities in Izumo, Shimane Source :YouTube screenshot In Shimane Prefecture, there are many well-established aizome shops with a long history. Aizome is a very beautiful traditional Japanese dyeing technique, and there is a custom in Shimane Prefecture of people carrying pieces made using the technique as a trousseau. Shussai pottery is another specialty of Izumo, made using kilns called "shussai gama." On the historical Japanese street Momen Gaidou, there are many traditional stores selling traditional crafts. If you're struggling to come up with ideas for souvenirs, this is the perfect place to go. The rich soil of the Izumo plains also produces a lot of brand-name rice and sake. After visiting Izumo Taisha, we recommend trying the Izumo soba noodles. You can see the noodles at 0:53 in the video. If you like soy sauce, we recommend picking some up here, as it's another specialty of Izumo. Summary of Izumo Shimane Izumo is a historical city with myths that have been passed down in Japan for generations. A tour of Izumo Taisha Shrine and the surrounding area's famous landmarks provides you with a breathtaking view. There are many more fascinating sights in the Izumo area that this article can't cover in detail, so be sure to check out the video to get a better idea of what Izumo has to offer. Plan a trip to Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture, a tourist spot where you can experience Japanese culture to your heart's content! 【Official Website】Izumo, Shimane City Hall http://www.city.izumo.shimane.jp/foreign-language.html

Mitten Crab Fishing and Mitten Crab Kakemeshi! The video（岡山・和気町に伝わるモクズガニ漁に密着「ズガニのかけ飯」の味は） closely covers Keiji Mandai from the Yoshiikawa Southern Fishery Cooperative, who runs a mitten crab fishing business in Wake, Okayama in Japan's Chugoku. The title of the video roughly translates to “Japanese mitten crab fishing In Wake, Okayama. Mitten crab fisheries and a taste of Kakemeshi." Kenji Mandai is a veteran fisherman with 70 years of experience. Mitten crab is called "Zugani" by the local people and it is used in the local special dish “Zugani Kakemeshi.” Please watch the video to see some of the characteristics of mitten crab fishing, or to check the recipe for Zugani Kakemeshi. Mitten Crab Fishing Photo：Mitten crab Mitten crabs are found in the river and the local people call it “Zugani.” The mitten crab is part of the crustacean species. Its carapace is 7-8 cm, and it weighs around 180g. The fishing process is actually quite easy as well. Being nocturnal, mitten crabs usually stand still in between rocks. Knowing this, fisherman put net traps into the river and the mitten crabs have a tendency to just walk inside them. That's it! If you want to see this in action, take a look at the video starting from 0:16. Mitten crab fishing peaks in the fall since the crabs travel down the river to breed. They're packed with meat during this time of the year so it's definitely the best season to try them. If the crabs legs crabs are yellow, that means it's a lunker! Unfortunately, because their size is relatively small and it takes time and effort to cook, there are fewer and fewer people eating mitten crabs nowadays . As a result, not many fishermen are involved in mitten crab fishing, and the tradition has been on a steady decline. What Is Mitten Crab Kakemeshi? Recipes and Popular Ways to Cook Mitten Crab Source :YouTube screenshot Mitten crab kakemeshi is loved by the local people in Wake, Okayama and a feast is held during the rice harvesting season in the fall. After cooking vegetables in a pot, chop up the mitten crabs (including the shells), and strain the crabs using a strainer. In order to get the best tasting crab, it is best to spend time chopping up the crab as finely as possible. The shell of the crabs used to be the main source of protein for the people of Wake. After seasoning the soup with soy sauce, the standard way to enjoy this meal is to put it over rice. Mitten crab kakemeshi has a very rich taste, and you can taste every ingredient. For a more in-depth explanation on how to prepare mitten crab, take a look at 3:16 for the recipe on how to make mitten crab kakemeshi. There are several other recipes using mitten crabs, such as Takikomi gohan (this involves cooking the crab with other ingredients inside of a rice cooker with rice), Tsugani soup, steamed crabs, miso soup, and crab pasta. Mitten crab is a perfect ingredient for both Japanese and western dishes. Also shown in the video at 5:58, the local people cut a steamed crab in half and eat it straight. A Summary of the Mitten Crab Fishing and Mitten Crab Kakemeshi Introduction Photo：Mitten crab Mitten crabs taste the best, and are beefiest in Autumn, and although it has a strong smell, if cooked properly it can become a delicious meal. If you are planning to visit Japan, we recommend trying different kinds of Japanese food to feel the culture of Japan. If this article has got you interested in trying some crab dishes after watching the mitten crab fishing video, there's no better place to get your fill than Wake, Okayama. Although mitten crab fishing has been on the decline, mitten crab is a taste that deserves to be passed down for generations.

Hieizan Enryakuji Temple, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan This video, titled "Walking Around Mt.Hiei-zan Enryaku-ji Temple (Kyoto, Japan)," was created by "Anna Film Production." It's an introductory video of Enryakuji Temple located in Otsu (大津市), Shiga prefecture. Enryakuji Temple was founded by the Japanese monk Saicho (最澄) (767 AD - 822 AD) some time between the end of the Nara Period (790 AD) and the beginning of the Heian Period (800 AD) and is the headquarters of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism. The video shows the large lecture hall, Amida-do (阿弥陀堂) from 4:46, the pagoda Hokke Soji-in Todo (法華総寺院東塔) from 4:57 as well as the following buildings: Sannouin (山王院堂), the Saito Area (西塔), Tsubakido (椿堂), Jogyodo (常行堂), Hokkedo (法華堂), Ninaido (にない堂), Shakado (釈迦堂), Eshindo (恵心堂) and Konponnyohoto (根本如法塔). Please enjoy taking a look at the unique scenery of each of the temple's areas in the video. The History of Enryakuji Temple Photo：Kaidan-in Temple, Mt. Hiei, Shiga Prefecture Enryakuji Temple, also known as Eizan (叡山), is a temple located in Sakamoto Honcho (坂本本町) in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture. Enryakuji Temple dates all the way back to the 8th century when the then 19-year-old monk Saicho built a simple thatched hut. Mt. Hiei, the mountain on which Enryakuji Temple is built, has been worshipped since ancient times and is even mentioned in the Kojiki. The Japanese god or "kami" Oyamakui (大山咋神) is the deity enshrined here. Many famous monks, such as Kukai (空海), also known as Kobo Daishi (弘法大師), have trained on Mt. Hiei, making it one of the most important mountains for Buddhism in Japan. During the Warring States Period (1467 AD - 1615 AD), Enryakuji Temple was famously burned to the ground by the warlord Oda Nobunaga (織田信長); however the temple was later rebuilt by Toyotomi Hideyoshi (豊臣秀吉) (1536 AD - 1598 AD) and Tokugawa Ieyasu (徳川家安) ( 1541 AD - 1616). Highlights of Enryakuji Temple and Mount Hiei Photo：Enryakuji Temple, Mt. Hiei, Shiga Prefecture Enryakuji Temple is home to many national treasures and Important Cultural Properties as well as being registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto" (古都京都の文化財). Over one hundred sub-temples cover the vast temple grounds and the three main areas of the temple "Todo" (東塔), "Saito" (西塔), and "Yokawa" (横川) are generally referred to as "Santo" (三塔, santou) meaning "the three pagodas." We highly recommend taking a trip to Enryakuji Temple to visit one or more of the many fascinating temple buildings, such as Kokuhoden (国宝殿) or Rurido (瑠璃堂). Don't forget to collect seal stamps, known as "go-shuin," as you visit the different temples! You can also enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lake Biwa (琵琶湖) from the temple grounds! Summary of Mt. Hiei and Enryakuji Temple Photo：Enryakuji Temple, Mt. Hiei, Shiga Prefecture Enryakuji Temple is a dynamic sightseeing spot consisting of multiple buildings that cover the mountainous area stretching from Lake Biwa to Kyoto. As you can imagine after watching the video, it would take a fairly long time to visit each and every one of the halls and buildings of Enryakuji Temple. We highly recommend booking a hotel in the surrounding area and participating in one of the local tours to make the most of your visit to Mt. Hiei in Shiga Prefecture. ◆Mount Hiei and Enryakuji Temple - Information Summary◆ 【Address】Shiga Prefecture, Otsu City, Sakamoto Honmachi 4220 【Access】Take the Hieizan Railway Line cable car to Cable Sakamoto Station (ケーブル坂元駅) (35 minutes by car from Otsu city center) 【Hours】Todo area – March to November 8.30am – 4.30pm, December 9am – 4pm, January to February 9am – 4.30pm Saito area and Yokawa area - March to November 9am – 4pm, December 9.30am – 3.30pm, January to February 9.30am – 4pm 【Enryakuji Temple Tourist Pass】Adults – 1000 yen, Junior High School Students – 600 yen, Elementary School Students – 300 yen 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】077-578-0001 【Official Website】Tendai School of Buddhism Headquarters, Mount Hiei, Enryakuji Temple https://www.hieizan.gr.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Mount Hiei, Enryakuji Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298202-d321090-Reviews-Hieizan_Enryaku_ji_Temple-Otsu_Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Introducing the Traditional Japanese Food "Oden"! This video, titled "ODEN – IS JAPAN COOL WASHOKU," introduces the traditional Japanese food "Oden." It was created by "ANA Global Channel." The video introduces Sakae Funadaiku (舩大工栄), the owner of the oden restaurant "Otafuku" in Asakusa, Taito ward (台東区), Tokyo. From 2:01 in the video, you can take a look at the delicious oden being served at Otafuku. What Kind of Dish Is Oden? Photo：Oden Oden dates all the way back to the Muromachi period (1336 AD-1573 AD). A dish known as "Tofu-dengaku" (豆腐田楽) became popular amongst the people of that time and eventually became the "Oden" known and loved today. Sakae Funadaiku shares more about the history of oden starting from 0:50 in the video. Oden is a comfort food that has gained popularity over the years and is commonly sold in Japanese izakaya and at food stands called "Yatai." In recent years, the number of convenience stores selling oden is on the rise. You can also purchase the ingredients yourself and prepare oden at home. There are many recipe sites online such as "Cookpad" where you can learn how to make oden. We highly recommend giving this low calorie yet highly satisfying dish a try! How To Make Oden Photo：Oden Oden is a popular hot pot dish that contains a variety of different ingredients. These often include daikon, konjac, boiled egg, atsuage (thick, deep-fried tofu), satsuma-age (deep-fried fish cakes), hanpen (pounded fish paste), tsumire (fish dumplings), ganmodoki (fried tofu fritter made with vegetables) and chikuwa (tube-shaped fish paste cake). There are some areas that also include beef sinew and chikuwabu (tube-shaped wheat cake). Slowly simmering the ingredients over a long period of time is what makes oden so delicious! Try Different Kinds of Oden All Over Japan! Photo：Shizuoka oden The seasonings and ingredients used to make oden vary depending on which area of Japan you are in, so you can enjoy comparing the different flavors of each region! You can try the Kansai-style tsuyu sauce-based oden or the characteristically dark broth of Shizuoka-style oden! In Hokkaido, it's common to eat miso oden in the summer! There is also a popular anime and story book character in Japan based on oden called Oden-kun (おでんくん)! Summary of Oden Photo：Oden This introductory video is packed full of oden footage that will leave your mouth watering! Oden can be enjoyed for either lunch or dinner as well! If you are interested in trying oden, check out some restaurant reviews and hours online and visit a restaurant to try it for yourself! The next time you go traveling in Japan, definitely check out the traditional Japanese dish "Oden" which has been loved by the Japanese people for hundreds of years!

The CSR Activities of Japan Airlines (JAL)! This video titled “【Promotional Video】Japan Airlines _ CSR Activity Promotional Video,” produced by “Video Marketing Agency- PROOX Co., Ltd” (動画制作・映像制作の株式会社プルークス), is a promotional video that introduces JAL’s CSR activities. CSR stands for "corporate social responsibility," and refers to the social responsibility of a company to voluntarily engage in environmental protection activities from an ethical perspective. As introduced in the video, JAL, as a global company, continues to make various social contributions to reduce carbon emissions. This video introduces JAL’s CSR initiatives in a very clear and easy-to-understand way. We hope that by watching this video you'll get interested in environmental conservation as well! JAL’s Environmental Initiatives Source :YouTube screenshot It can be said that economic activity leads to the emission of large amounts of CO2 which in turn affects global warming. As introduced at 0:35 in the video, JAL’s CSR activities include the installation of equipment that lowers the air resistance of airplanes to increase fuel efficiency, cooperation with the atmospheric observation project “CONTRAIL”, and airplane engine cleaning for improved fuel efficiency. Examples of JAL's Bio-Jet Fuel Utilization Source :YouTube screenshot Japan Airlines (JAL) plans to introduce Bio-jet fuel into airplanes to further reduce CO2. Bio-jet fuel is an earth-friendly fuel made from wood and trash. From 2:36 in the video, a charter flight using fuel made from cotton clothing is also introduced. The recycling of garbage, wood and used clothes eliminates the need for mining new fossil fuels, which would lead to a cleaner, recycling based society. Eco-Friendly Flights by JAL Source :YouTube screenshot JAL conducted a demonstration flight of an airplane using Bio-jet fuel in 2009, and a test flight equipped with Bio-jet fuel from Chicago O’Hare International Airport to Narita International Airport in 2017. In addition, in 2019, they received a supply of Bio-jet fuel from Showa Shell Co, Ltd. and operated a flight to San Francisco International Airport. They are planning a charter flight with an airplane using Bio-jet fuel again in 2020. Summary of Japan Airlines' CSR Activity Source :YouTube screenshot In this video, the environmental conservation activities of Japan Airlines are explained in an easy-to-understand animation. The introduction of Bio-jet fuel for airplanes is an initiative for the “SDGs” adopted at the United Nations Summit. Everyone is focused on Japan Airlines' CSR activities as it continues to make various contributions to safety, environmental protection and local communities. 【Official website】CSR Information | JAL Corporate Website – Japan Airlines https://www.jal.com/en/

Video introduction of "Hamamatsu Castle" in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, a famous castle in Japan. This is an informational video titled "One of Japan's Top 100 Castles｜Hamamatsu Castle｜Shizuoka Prefecture" (続日本100名城　浜松城　静岡県　Hamamatsu Castle), that introduces Hamamatsu Castle in Shizuoka Prefecture, which has been selected as one of "Japan's Top 100 Castles." It is published by "castle shrine." A popular theory is that Hamamatsu Castle, in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, was built around the 15th century by Sadasuke Imagawa as a Hikuma Castle. Later on, Tokugawa Ieyasu entered the castle and it became a point of interest among historians. In this article, we'll explore the history of Hamamatsu Castle and look at some of its highlights! What Kind of Castle Is Hamamatsu Castle? Photo：Hamamatsu Castle Hamamatsu Castle is also called "Shusse castle" due to many of the successive lords becoming executive officers of the Edo Shogunate one after another. (出世, or Shusse, roughly means "Success in life" in Japanese, making the rough translation "Castle of Success"). In 1570, Tokugawa Ieyasu entered the castle to prepare for the invasion of Takeda Shingen, and renamed the castle Hamamatsu Castle. After the Battle of Mikatagahara and the Battle of Sekigahara, the castle became the residence of the feudal lords of the Tokugawa family of the Edo shogunate, and the castle was passed down to the twenty-two generations of the nine families. What to Do at Hamamatsu Castle! Photo：Tenshu-mon Gate, Hamamatsu Castle The area around the castle tower at Hamamatsu Castle is independent from the main castle tower and is called "Tenshu Guruwa." On the east side is the castle gate, which can be seen at 1:37 in the video. Hamamatsu Castle was originally an earthen castle without stone walls or tiled buildings. Another feature of Hamamatsu Castle is that the castle is built on a pile of natural, unprocessed stones. Be sure to climb the castle tower and enjoy the view of Hamamatsu city as well. Inside the castle tower, which you can see at 2:50 in the video, you can see treasures such as armor and firearms. You can also receive the castle seal and red seal, and see a realistic statue of Ieyasu. Sightseeing Around Hamamatsu Castle Photo：Hamamatsu Castle Park The area around Hamamatsu Castle is Hamamatsu Castle Park. It is a place of relaxation for citizens and tourists alike. In a corner of Hamamatsu Castle Park, there's a full-scale tea house called Shointei. You can also enjoy stamp rallies and other events at Hamamatsu Castle. It is also known as a famous spot for somei yoshino cherry blossoms, and many people come to view the cherry blossoms when they are in bloom. On weekends and holidays, you can see the popular character, "Ieyasu-kun," in the vicinity of the park, so be sure to keep an eye out for him! Summary of Hamamatsu Castle Photo：Hamamatsu Castle The video introduces the historic Hamamatsu Castle in detail, so be sure to watch it if you haven't yet. In Hamamatsu Castle Park, you'll find lunch spots and cafes such as Starbucks and there are also shops where you can buy souvenirs. At 4:27 in the video, you can see a statue of the brave Tokugawa Ieyasu in Hamamatsu Castle Park. Be sure to give it a visit! ◆Introduction to Hamamatsu Castle facilities◆ 【Address】100-2 Motoshiro-cho, Naka-ku, Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture 【Access】An 8 minute walk from Enshu Railway Enshubyouin-mae Station 【Entrance fee】200 yen for adults, free for junior high school students and younger 【Hours】8:30-16:30 【Parking】Available (free) 【Telephone No】053-453-3872 【Official Website】A castle for the sake of 300 years in Tokugawa. Hamamatsu Castle-Hamamatsu Tourism Navigation https://www.entetsuassist-dms.com/hamamatsu-jyo/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Hamamatsu Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g303148-d1313765-Reviews-Hamamatsu_Castle-Hamamatsu_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Takarazuka Is a World Famous Entertainment City! The Takarazuka International Tourism Association created the video “A Video to Guide Tourism in Takarazuka.” The video introduces attractive sightseeing places around Takarazuka, Hyogo, in Japan's Kansai region. This article will introduce recommended sightseeing places in the city of entertainment. Be sure to follow along with the video! Entertainment Spots in Takarazuka! Photo：Takarazuka Grand Theater The most famous sightseeing location in Takarazuka is Takarazuka Revue. The performance at the Takarazuka Grand Theatre is a high quality show that we recommend seeing at least once. This is one of the few all-female troupes in the world, and their well-honed performances, which have been performed for over 100 years, are a must-see. Fans of the Takarazuka School of Music won't want to miss the Sumire Museum, where you can see photos of the Takarazuka School of Music, exhibits of teaching materials used in classes, actual classroom scenes and extracurricular activities that are not usually available to the public. We also recommend stopping by Horai Bridge, which spans the Muko River (武庫川, Mukogawa) and is known as a view point for the Takarazuka Grand Theater. Source :YouTube screenshot Osamu Tezuka, a pioneer of Japanese manga and anime, was born in Takarazuka, and the Osamu Tezuka Manga Museum is located there in his honor. It has an entrance reminiscent to that of the palace from Princess Knight. Enjoy the world of Japanese manga here! Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Takarazuka Photo：Kiyoshikojin Seichoji There are historical shrines and temples, such as, Kiyoshikojin Seichoji, Nakayamadera, Hachiman Shrine (波豆八幡神社, Hachimanjinjya), Iwashizu Shrine (伊和志津神社 Iwashizujinjya), and Mefu Shrine (売布神社, Mefujinjya). Be sure to check out theKitsugidayu Stele Monument as well. There are also places where you can enjoy golfing and horse racing. Tourist Attractions to Enjoy the Natural Scenery There's a hiking trail at Takedao Haisenjiki's Mukogawa valley as well, and it gets quite busy during fall. After hiking, bathing at Takedao Hot Springs (武田尾温泉, Takedaoonsen) is a great way to relax and unwind. Photo：Hananomichi Takarazuka is called the "City of Gardening," and there's a beautiful dahlia garden called Aiaipark, where you can buy gardening tools, and the well-kept-secret Hana no Michi where you can enjoy seasonal flowers. We also recommend strawberry picking at Ai-farm and buying local vegetables at Nishitani Community Center Fureai Yume Plaza. Sightseeing in Takarazuka Staying at the luxury Takarazuka Washington Hotel or Takarazuka Hotel where you can enjoy Taisho Roman, is a great idea for lodging. Relaxing at Nature Spa Takarazuka and Hotel Wakamizu and enjoying the pure hot springs while dining on Japanese cuisine will make for an experience you won't soon forget. We recommend the local specialty tansan-senbei as a souvenir. Summary of Takarazuka As you can see from the video, Takarazuka is easily accessed from Osaka and Kobe. There are a lot of entertainment and natural tourist attractions in the area as well. There's more information about Takarazuka in the video, so be sure to check it out to learn about the attractions of Takarazuka! Visit popular tourist attractions in Takarazuka! 【Official Website】Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture City Hall Website http://www.city.takarazuka.hyogo.jp.e.pc.hp.transer.com/