Official Author

坂崎 なお（Nao Sakazaki）

An Introduction to Nara Prefecture's Tamaki Shrine This video, titled "JG☆☆☆奈良 玉置神社(重文) Nara,Tamakijinja(Cultural Property)," was produced by "JAPAN GEOGRAPHIC." It introduces Mt. Tamaki's (玉置山) Tamaki Shrine, located in Totsukawa village, Nara prefecture (奈良県十津川村). Mt. Tamaki's Tamaki Shrine, located in Totsukawa village, Nara prefecture, is an ancient shrine thought to have been built in the year 37 BC. Tamaki shrine is dedicated to the gods Izanagi (伊弉諾尊神) and Izanami (伊弉册尊神). Tamaki Shrine, the innermost shrine of the Kumano Sanzan (熊野三山, Three Grand Shrines of Kumano), is part of the Omine-okugake Trail (大峯奥駈道), a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range (紀伊山地の霊場と参詣道). Recommended Spots Around Tamaki Shrine Photo：Tamaki Shrine, Nara Prefecture Tamaki shrine is situated near the peak of Mt. Tamaki, one mountain of the sacred Omine Mountain Range. It can be found at the ninth station on the mountain and is one of the stops along the Omine-okugake Trail. On the sacred grounds you can find "Suginokyojugun" (杉の巨樹群), a large cedar tree that has been designated a natural monument, which can be seen from 4:10 in the video, along with "Meoto Sugi" (夫婦杉, The Wedded Cedar), Mihashira Shrine (三柱神社), the shrine office (社務所) and the Ema board hall (絵馬堂). From 6:43 in the video, you can see the colorful sliding doors of Tamaki Shrine's Shrine office, known as "Kajukunoma" (孔雀の間), as well as "Oimatsunoma" (老松の間), Tsurunoma (鶴の間), Asahizurunoma (旭鶴の間), Botankarajishinoma (牡丹唐獅子の間) and Guujikyoshitsu (宮司居室) and the bell which have been designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Visit Tamaki Shrine for Good Luck! Photo：Tamaki Shrine, Nara Prefecture A visit to Tamaki shrine is thought to bring luck with money so make sure you receive a seal stamp called a "goshuin" or get a good luck fortune known as "o-mamori" when you visit. Since Tamaki shrine is situated near the peak of a mountain, if the weather conditions permit it, a sea of clouds which is said to resemble a dragon god can appear half way up the mountain! Tamaki shrine is a spiritual and mysterious place whose visitors are said to have been summoned by the gods. The lodgings that were once used by pilgrims now provide accommodation for those travelling alone. Summary of Tamaki Shrine Photo：A gorge in autumn, Nara Prefecture As you can tell from watching the video, Tamaki shrine is an awe-inspiring place that feels and looks as though the gods still remain there even today. Other spots to check out in the southern area of Nara prefecture include Totsukawa Hot Spring (十津川温泉), Doro-kyo Gorge (瀞峡), Tanize Suspension Bridge (谷瀬の吊り橋) and Ekinomichi Totsukawago (駅の道十津川郷). Why don't you book one of the nearby hotels or take part in a tour to really make the most of you trip to Tamaki shrine? ◆Tamaki Shrine Information Summary◆ 【Address】Nara prefecture, Yoshino-gun (吉野郡), Totsukawa-mura (十津川村), Tamakigawa (玉置川) 1 【Access】20 minutes by taxi from Totsukawa Hot Spring (十津川温泉) bus stop, accessible by bus from Gojo station (五条駅) or Kintetsu Yamatoyagi station (近鉄大和八木駅). 【Hours】8 am - 5 pm 【Entrance fee】Adults - 500 yen 【Parking】Available (free of charge) 【Tripadvisor】Tamaki Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121333-d1386031-Reviews-Tamaki_Shrine-Totsukawa_mura_Yoshino_gun_Nara_Prefecture_Kinki.html

A Look at Aikido, a Traditional Japanese Martial Art This video, titled “Aikido&Jiu-Jitsu&Ninja techniques - Shirakawa Ryuji shihan,” was released by “Aikido Shinburenseijuku.” Aikido is a martial art that was first developed in the Taisho (1912-1926 AD) and Showa (1926-1989 AD) periods. The history of Aikido began with the study of martial arts by its founder, Morihei Ueshiba. Later on, when Aikido was invented, the number of people practicing martial arts increased rapidly. Today, Aikido is divided into various schools, and many people, from children to adults, practice it at schools in Japan and around the world. Try Your Hand at Aikido, a Traditional Japanese Culture! Photo：Aikido The appeal of Aikido is that it's a martial art where one can learn defensive techniques based on body movements focused on maximizing potential energy and breathing techniques. In order to master Aikido, it is important to learn the techniques one by one through training with other practitioners. In the Japanese martial arts, there is a concept called "心技体" (Shin-Gi-Tai - heart, technique, physique). This refers to the idea of growing while maintaining a balance between mental strength (精神力/heart - 心), skill (技術/technique - 技), and physique (体力, body - 体). When practicing in the dojo, it is important to not only move your body, but also to remember the rules and learn proper etiquette. The Techniques Used in Aikido Photo：Aikido The video introduces techniques such as Shiho-nage, Irimi-nage, Kotegaeshi, Ikkyo, Tenchi-nage, Kokyu-nage, Sumi-Otoshi, and Kaiten-nage. Aikido techniques are created based on scientific analysis of the human body's characteristics and motor skills. Having said that, Aikido is not about competing with others or deciding who wins or loses, so there are no matches or competitions. Summary of Aikido, a Traditional Japanese Martial Art Photo：Aikido Shinburenseijuku introduced in the video is one of the largest dojos in Japan's Tohoku region. There are Aikido dojos and classes all over Japan, making it easy for people to experience the traditional Japanese martial art. If you're interested in wearing an aikido uniform (gi) and practicing traditional Japanese aikido techniques, consider visiting an Aikido dojo in Japan!

Video Introduction of “Giant Salamander” Appeared in Kamogawa River, Kyoto, Japan This is a video of the Giant Salamander, a protected species, that appeared in Kyoto's Kamo River. The giant salamander is the world’s largest amphibian. The characteristics of giant salamanders is their large body, which is approximately 150cm (~5 ft.) long. Giant salamanders have not changed in form since ancient times, and as such, they are referred to as "living fossils." What Are Giant Salamanders? Photo：Giant salamander Japanese Giant Salamanders belong to the animalia kingdom, chordata phylum, and amphibia class. They are also referred to as "Hanzaki" in Japanese. It is an endemic species living in the south western part of Japan. The mucus giant salamanders secrete on their skin smells like Japanese pepper (Sansho), so they are called "Sansho Uo" in Japanese. Chinese giant salamanders are very similar to Japanese giant salamanders. There's not much difference between Japanese giant salamanders and Chinese giant salamanders, and it is difficult to identify them based on appearance. In China, there is a theory that earthquakes occurs when giant salamanders appear. Are There Many Giant Salamanders Living in Kyoto's Kamo River? Photo：Kyoto As you can see in the video, giant salamanders are often seen in Kyoto's Kamo River basin. However, according to genetic research in the Kyoto area, the native species are extinct and the ones currently living in the city are likely to be non-native, hybrids, or a new species. In Kyoto, heavy rains and typhoons often cause the Kamo River to flood. After it rains, you can find salamanders that were washed downstream from Kumogahata village. The video begins with a giant salamander, over 1 meter in length, walking slowly along the path. It stops moving after 0:07, but you can see it slowly raising its head a couple of times. Giant Salamanders at the Kyoto Aquarium! Photo：Giant salamander At Kyoto Aquarium, there is a special display area of giant salamanders, and if you're lucky, you may even hear their low guttural call. You can also buy stuffed giant salamanders at the aquarium's souvenir shop. At the aquarium, more research is being done on giant salamanders. According to studies, the average life expectancy of a Giant Salamander is 80 years, but some live more than 200 years. Summary of the Giant Salamander at Kamo River Source :YouTube screenshot Many of you may have been surprised by the sheer size of the salamander in the video. There are many reports of salamander sightings along the Kamo River, so it's a good place to stop by when sightseeing in Kyoto. You can also visit the Kyoto Aquarium to learn more about the biology of the Japanese giant salamander. 【Official Website】Kyoto Aquarium- A short walk from Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station https://www.kyoto-aquarium.com/

Sanuki Kagari Temari! This time, we'll be taking a look at the video "Sanuki Kagari Temari" (讃岐かがり手まり) released by "Japan Video Topics," that introduces Sanuki Kagari Temari. Sanuki Kagari Temari is a traditional handicraft that has been made in Takamatsu, Kagawa, in Japan's Shikoku region (四国地方, Shikoku-Chiho), for many years. With its elegant patterns, Sanuki Kagari Temari has been popular as a trinket for women and children. The beautiful patterns of cherry blossoms, maple trees, and cute animals are something you'll never get tired of looking at. Nowadays, they are also popular as decorative goods. Sanuki Kagari Temari has been popular among common people since the mid-Edo period (around 1700-1800 A.D.) as a fun activity to enjoy on New Year's Day, and has been handed down to the present day over a long period of time. How Sanuki Kagari Temari is Made Source :YouTube screenshot You can see how Sanuki Kagari Temari are made from 0:53 in the video. The cores of Sanuki Kagari Temari are made of rice husks. They are then wrapped completely with cotton thread to shape them into beautiful balls. When making Sanuki Kagari Temari, a dividing line is drawn with thread to serve as a guiding line for drawing patterns. The guiding lines for drawing detailed patterns are all wrapped by hand. This process can be seen from 1:08 in the video. The next step is to make the pattern by hand using marking pins. As the craft maker puts the thread together, a beautiful geometric pattern is created on the ball. The cotton threads used to sew the Sanuki Kagari Temari are dyed with natural plant dyes, a process called "Kusaki-Zome." There are around 140 different colors that can be used to color the cloth. Try Your Hand at Making Sanuki Kagari Temari! Source :YouTube screenshot If you want to experience making Sanuki Kagari Temari, check out the website of the "SANUKI KAGARI TEMARI Preservation Association." The website offers an online shopping section where you can buy handicraft kits that help you experience Sanuki Kagari Temari easily. Why not buy a set and enjoy making your own colorful Sanuki Kagari Temari? There are also workshops in Kagawa Prefecture where you can learn how to make and play with Sanuki Kagari Temari. Summary of Sanuki Kagari Temari, a Traditional Japanese Craft Source :YouTube screenshot In this article, we introduced Sanuki Kagari Temari, a traditional craft of Kagawa Prefecture. This video was made for those who are interested in Japanese culture, life, and customs. Sanuki Kagari Temari is the perfect souvenir to commemorate your trip to Kagawa Prefecture. You can buy Sanuki Kagari Temari products online as well, so if the video has you interested, be sure to check out their online store. 【Official Website】 SANUKI KAGARI TEMARI http://www.eiko-temari.jp/

Kanazawa Foil, a Traditional Craft of Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan - Production Video Introduction This video, titled "手技TEWAZA「金沢箔」kanazawa gold leaf／伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square," was released by Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square (伝統工芸 青山スクエア). In Japan, gold leaf is vital to the decoration of buildings and stone monuments, such as the ones introduced at 3:45 in the video, as well as various products, including bowls, dolls, folding screens, fans, and more. Gold leaf is also used to decorate Japanese food and sweets. The video shows how beautiful products are made with gold leaf. Enjoy the beauty of the traditional craft in the video. Kanazawa Gold Leaf, a Traditional Japanese Craft - How It's Made Photo：Gold leaf The manufacturing process of gold leaf begins with a process called "kin-awase" (金合わせ, melting silver and copper together with the gold). Gold alone is too soft, so small amounts of silver and copper are mixed into the material. This material is melted and then shaped. The gold plate, like the one shown at 1:48 in the video, is stretched thin in a process called "nobe-gane" (延金). A high level of skill is required to make the gold foil approximately 1/10,000th of a millimeter thick. The gold leaf is stretched thinly with a foil-striping tool, and finally transferred to Japanese paper and cut evenly, completing the Kanazawa gold leaf process. Purchasing Kanagawa Gold Leaf Products Photo：Gold leaf With the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen (bullet train), the number of tourists visiting Kanazawa is increasing year after year. If you're planning a trip to Kanazawa, we recommend visiting workshops, such as Hakuichi (箔一), and purchasing traditional Kanazawa gold leaf products made by a traditional craftsman as a gift or for yourself. Gold leaf may seem pricey, but there are surprisingly reasonably priced items, so be sure to check out the numerous products for sale. Summary of Kanazawa Gold Leaf Photo：Gold leaf This time, we introduced Kanazawa gold leaf, a traditional Japanese craft, and how it's made. Kanazawa gold leaf is a traditional craft designated by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry as such, and is one of the most representative traditional crafts of Kanazawa. On your trip to Kanazawa, we recommend experiencing Japanese culture at a hands-on class where you can make your own Kanazawa gold leaf and enjoying gourmet food made with Kanazawa gold leaf! 【Official Website】 Hakuichi https://www.hakuichi.co.jp/en/company/

Video introduction of beautiful garden scenery in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture This video, titled “[4K] The Gardens of Kyoto / from January to June　[4K] 京都の庭園・1月から6月,” was released by “Yurara Sarara.” The video shows the scenery of Kyoto's gardens from winter to early summer. There are many beautiful gardens in Kyoto that are great for posting to your Instagram! In this article, we’ll introduce information about gardens and sightseeing routes in Kyoto that will allow you to discover the beauty of Japan! The Beautiful Snowy Park in the Video Photo：Sanzen-in Temple, Kyoto The quiet, snowy garden introduced at 0:12 in the video is Sanzen-in Temple, a popular sightseeing destination. In the northern part of Kyoto City, there are many places of interest where you can see spectacular snowscapes. During winter in Kyoto, you can see beautiful camellia and plum blossoms. The view of the snow falling on the petals of the flowers is a very special sight. Must-See Gardens During Spring in Kyoto Photo：The rock garden at Ryoanji Temple, Kyoto From 2:43 in the video, you can see the beautiful cherry blossoms bloom all over Kyoto in spring, providing a breathtaking view of the city. The area around Okazaki, where Heian Shrine and Nanzenji Temple are located, is another popular destination among tourists for its historical museums and spacious parks. There's also the Katsura Imperial Villa, where you can experience Japanese architectural culture, and Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its stone garden that uses with 15 different types of stones. Be sure not to miss the breathtaking sight of cherry blossom petals dancing across the rock garden created using stones and sand. Gardens With the Best Early Summer Atmosphere in Kyoto Photo：Tofukuji Temple, Kyoto We highly recommend visiting Kyoto's beautiful gardens during late spring-early summer, as this is when the fresh greenery is most vibrant. We recommend checking out Tofukuji Temple, introduced at 4:39 in the video, and Tadasu no Mori at Shimogamo Shrine. Nonomiya Shrine in Arashiyama, a place that appears often in classical Japanese literature, is another destination that many tourists come to to heal. At 5:51 in the video, you'll see a beautiful view of Murin-an, a quiet spot where you can enjoy green tea while admiring the garden created by Ogawa Jihei. The garden offers a spectacular view of Kyoto's fresh greenery, and in fall, it's decorated with the vibrant colors of the autumn leaves. Visiting the garden in different seasons will allow you to enjoy a new experience each time. Summary of Kyoto’s Beautiful Gardens Photo：Autumn foliage at Heian Shrine, Kyoto The video “[4K] The Gardens of Kyoto / from January to June　[4K] 京都の庭園・1月から6月” introduces many of the beautiful gardens that Kyoto has to offer. By watching the video, you’ll get a good idea of what to expect when visiting Kyoto’s gardens, and also find some beautiful locations, including famous temples, hidden gardens, and popular parks, to throw on your itinerary for when you visit Kyoto! Be sure to check out the video to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Kyoto!

Introducing Tokai in Aichi Prefecture This is a PR video titled “Tokai, Aichi Prefecture Promotional Footage - From 1969 to the Future” (愛知県東海市シティプロモーション映像 「1969年→未来へ」), produced by tokaicityofficial. Tokai is named in the hope that the city would represent the Tokai region. This short two-and-a-half-minute video is a speedy introduction of the attractive views, events, and tourist destinations in Tokai. Starting with the footage of old Tokai, scenes of the bustling city in the present day will give you the impression of a “Safe, Futuristic City that Connects People with Dreams” (the city’s slogan), and the footage makes one feel as if the city will continue to develop into the future. Sightseeing in Tokai, Aichi Prefecture Photo：Shurakuen Buddha Tokai in Aichi Prefecture has many iron works from long ago, and developed as the “City of Steel.” In 1969, the present Tokai was born as the result of a merger between the towns of Ueno and Yokosuka. A large Buddha is perched on the scenic hill overlooking Tokai, Aichi Prefecture, as if it's watching over the city. The Shurakuen Buddha in Shurakuen Park, with a height of 18.79 meters (about 62 feet), that watches over Tokai, is bigger than the Buddhas in both Nara and Kamakura. Be sure to add this landmark to your itinerary when you visit Tokai. The Buddha statue is shown at 0:42 in the video. Even just from watching the video you can feel the scale of the statue. Tourists can also visit hidden gems, such as Observation Hill in Oike Park to enjoy the scenic beauty, as well as the Aichi Prefectural Art Theater. The Summer Festivals of Tokai, Aichi Prefecture One of the most popular summer events in Tokai, Aichi Prefecture is the Tokai Fireworks Festival. The popular firework festival, which represents Tokai, is held in the city at Oike Park. It provides a spectacular view for visitors. Experience the spectacular fireworks of the Tokai Fireworks Festival in the footage at 1:23 in the video. Tokai also has a unique festival called the "Silent Bon Festival" where locals dance to music played in their earphones, as not to annoy people living in the surrounding area. Event Information for Tokai, Aichi Prefecture Source :YouTube screenshot The Ota Festival and Owari Yokosuka Festival are known as the two largest float festivals in the city. Beside these, the city is filled with a festive atmosphere during tourist events such as the pop culture event ANIMAN, the Ryukyu Festival for introducing attractions of Okinawa City (one of Tokai’s sister cities), and the Tokai Autumn Festival. The Ota River area has events including the Nippon Domannaka Festival and the Ota River Hot Summer Garden during summer, and the Winter Illumination at Ota River during winter. The event venues are lined with stalls where tourists can purchase local food and souvenirs. The Tokai Half Marathon organized in December also gathers attentions from both locals and tourists. Check out the video to see footage of these events and festivals! Summary of Tokai, Aichi Prefecture The video has a lot of amazing things to see. So many traditional Japanese festivals and events are organized in Tokai, Aichi Prefecture! Enjoy the scenic beauty, as well as the events/festivals in Tokai, Aichi Prefecture, through the video. Tokai, Aichi Prefecture truly is a fascinating tourist destination! When you make a trip to the city, be sure to join in the festive events. It'll be an experience you won't forget! 【Official Website】Tokai, Aichi Prefecture city official website http://www.city.tokai.aichi.jp/

Video introduction of the bamboo cutting ceremony at Kuramadera Temple, Kyoto, Japan This video, titled "Kyoto Festival Bamboo Cutting Ritual at Kurama-dera (Takekirie)," was created by "Discover Kyoto." The video shows Takekiri Eshiki, a bamboo-cutting ritual at Kurama-dera Temple in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture. The bamboo-cutting ritual has been carried out at Kurama-dera Temple for over 1,000 years, making it one of the oldest rituals in Kyoto. The monks dress in armor donned by the warrior monks of old, and energetically hack away at the thick bamboo stalks. You can hear the cheers from visitors to the temple as the monks perform the ritual. A Closer Look at Kurama-Dera's Bamboo-Cutting Ritual Source :YouTube screenshot The bamboo-cutting ritual is known in Japanese as "Takekiri Eshiki" (竹伐り会式). The ritual originates from a legend that Buen Shonin, a monk from the early Heian Period, was training on Mt. Kurama when a massive snake appeared. Through the power of Buddhism, the monk successfully defeated the snake. During the ritual, 4-meter-long and 10-centimeter-thick green bamboo is likened to the snake from the legend, and two groups of monks wield machete-like blades and compete to slice the bamboo in the shortest amount of time. The event also holds significance in that it expresses an appreciation for water, acts as a prayer to exorcise evil, and promotes triumph of truth. It is a soul-stirring and exciting tradition indeed. More About Kurama-Dera's Bamboo Cutting Ritual Source :YouTube screenshot The event kicks off with a performance by the children, as they dances in front of the main shrine building. Following this, the bamboo-cutting ritual is held by the monks. The Kurama monks are divided into the Omi (近江座, omiza) of Shiga Prefecture and the Tamba (丹波座, tamba-za) of Kyoto and Hyogo Prefectures. The monks who win the race to slice the bamboo pole, crowned the shoubu-giri (勝負伐り), finish the ritual by letting out a quick victory cry while running towards the head temple. It is said that between the Omi and the Tamba (Tanba), the winning region will be blessed with a bountiful harvest. From 4:16 in the video, you can see the monks hacking away at the bamboo stalks. Other Popular Sightseeing Destinations in Kyoto! Photo：A woman with a Japanese umbrella walking through Kifune Shrine If you're visiting Mt. Kurama, definitely take the chance to stop by Kifune Shrine (貴船神社, kifune jinja). After enjoying the beautiful natural scenery at Kifune Shrine, where the deity of water is enshrined, we recommend trying the dining experience over the riverbed! In addition, the views of Kurama-dera Temple and Kifune Shrine during the fall foliage season are also exceptional. There are many other scenic spots in Kyoto, such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple (清水寺, kiyomizu-dera) and Arashiyama (嵐山), so consider dropping by these as well if you get the chance. Summary of Kurama-Dera Temple's Bamboo-Cutting Ritual Photo：Kurama-dera Temple, Kyoto The bamboo-cutting ritual of Kurama-Dera Temple is a magnificent event with a history of more than 1,000 years. If you want to fully experience Kyoto in early summer, head out to the verdant Mt. Kurama and experience Kurama-Dera Temple's bamboo-cutting ritual! ◆Kurama-Dera Temple◆ 【Address】1074 Kurama Honmachi, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 【Access】Walk from the Kurama Station on the Eizan Electric Railway (叡山電車鞍馬駅) 【Admission Fee】Admission to the temple is free, but entrance to the Reihoden Museum costs 200 yen, and contribution to the protection and upkeep of the mountain is 300 yen. 【Tripadvisor】Kurama-dera Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d3444654-Reviews-Kurama_dera-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Introducing Mt. Koya This video, titled "The Holy Land in the Sky – Mt. Koya (生きている天空の聖地　高野山) was created by "greentvjapan." It's an introductory video of the beautiful and mysterious Mt. Koya; one of the top holy cities in Japan. Mt. Koya is known as a holy place by those who follow Buddhism, folk religion, and mountain worship. The History of Mt. Koya Photo：Koyasan Daimon, Wakayama Prefecture Mt. Koya, a sacred mountain located in Koya, Ito district (伊都郡高野町) in Wakayama prefecture, is a holy land for Buddhism, starting with Shuzenji Temple given to Kukai (also known as Kobo Daishi (弘法大師)) by Emperor Saga (嵯峨天皇) in the Heian Period (794 AD - 1185 AD). Mt. Koya, which is the site of the head temple for Shingon Buddhism (真言宗, shingonshuu), is designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site under "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range." The beautiful temples on Mt. Koya, created by talented carpenters and cypress bark roof craftsmen, are a must see for any tourist visiting the area! The Highlights of Mt. Koya Photo：Danjo Garan in Koya-san, Wakayama Prefecture Mt. Koya's "Danjo-garan" (壇上伽藍) features many temples and shrines including Konpon Daito (根本大塔), Sanno-in (山王院), Kondo (金堂) and "Oku-no-In" (奥之院) of Kongobuji (金剛峯寺). There are many Jizo statues at Oku-no-in. You can take a look at these in the video from 4:14. If you are visiting Mt. Koya on foot, why not trek along some of the famous pilgrimage routes, such as Kurokomichi (黒子道), Nyoninmichi (女人道), Kyoosaka-michi Fudozaka (京大坂道不動坂), Mitanizaka (三谷坂) including Nyusakadonojinja (丹生酒殿神社). You can also receive a special seal stamp called a "Go-shuin" at Mt. Koya for good luck! Other items you can purchase at Mt. Koya include good luck fortunes known as "O-mamori," "zukou" (a powder-type incense/perfume), and good related to Mt. Koya's character, "Koya-kun" (こうやくん). You can also take part in meditation practice, sutra-copying and flower-arrangement experiences. The Temple Lodgings at Mt. Koya Photo：Koya in Wakayama Prefecture Every morning at 6 am when the temple bell rings, the monks begin their ascetic practices. Every morning, the monks take breakfast to Kukai in a ceremony called "Shojingu" (生身供). If you decide to stay the night in one of the Buddhist temples on Mt. Koya you can enjoy vegetarian Buddhist cuisine called "Shojinryori" (精進料理), which includes food, such as sesame tofu and traditional Japanese sweets, with the monks as well as take part in Buddhist prayers. Events on Mt. Koya Source :YouTube screenshot Many events take place on Mt. Koya throughout the year, such as the Aoba Festival (青葉祭り), Koya Fire Festival (高野の火祭り), Obon Lantern Festival and Candle Festival, and man other events that celebrate the changing of the seasons. During fall, there is a special Buddhist service known as "Kinshu Daigaran Oneri Ho'e" (錦秋大伽藍お練り法会) and in winter there is "Gohei Osame" (御幣納め), "Shushoe" (修正会) and "Joyanokane" (除夜の鐘, the ringing of the New Year's bells). Many tourists visit Mt. Koya in spring during cherry blossom season and in fall to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the autumn foliage. Mt. Koya Introductory Video Summary Photo：Danjo Garan As explained in the video, Mt. Koya has a long history dating back more than 1,200 years and is a sacred place worshipped by followers of Buddhism. The entire mountain is sacred meaning there are a lot of tourist spots for you to visit within short distances of one another. Before visiting, we highly recommend checking out the public transportation access to and from the mountain, as well as parking availability, hours, and walking courses to make the most of your trip to Mt. Koya. 【Official Website】Mt. Koya, Shingon Buddhism, Kongobuji temple http://www.koyasan.or.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Mt. Koya https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121341-d1028543-Reviews-Mt_Koya-Koya_cho_Ito_gun_Wakayama_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Performance Video for Ryuji Shirakawa, an Aikido Master This video entitled “Aikido Dynamic and fluid movement Shirakawa Ryuji shihan (合気道 ダイナミックで流れるような動き！白川竜次 師範), performed by Aikido Master Ryuji, and produced by "Aikido Shinburenseijuku," features performances of Aikido, one of Japan's traditional martial arts. You can see the performance by Ryuji Shirakawa, 6th dan of Shinburenseijyuku, as he throws his opponents from one to the next. What are the techniques of Aikido, Japan's historic martial art? What is Aikido? Photo：Aikido Aikido and other traditional Japanese martial arts emphasize the ancient Japanese concept of "mind, technique and body." "Mind, technique and body" refers to a balance of mind, technique, and body. Aikido is a martial art that was established between the Meiji period and the beginning of the Showa period. It has a relatively short history in comparison with other martial arts. Aikido is a comprehensive martial art into which the principles not only for Jujitsu, but also for Kendo and Judo, are incorporated. The martial art came to be called Aikido in 1942, and has since spread all over the world. It is estimated that there are about 1 million people competing domestically and 1.5 million abroad. Aikido has various types of attacking techniques such as Ikkyo, Shihonage , Iriminage, Kotegaeshi. A half-body stance is the basic position for Aikido regardless school. It is important to practice things such as breathing techniques or switching of body positions to use the martial art's techniques properly. In this video, you can see scenes of master Ryuji Shirakawa throwing his opponents one after another. Sometimes arm-locking them as well. Learn the Japanese Martial Art, Aikido! Photo：Children sitting in "Seiza" The number of people who practice Japanese martial arts such as Karate, Judo, and Kendo has been increasing. Wearing dojo clothes and training in a jiu-jitsu or kendo dojo can help you maintain your health and improve your mental strength. The Japanese martial arts are useful as a self-defense technique, making them a great choice for men as well as women and children to learn. If you can find a good coach and receive careful guidance, you can participate in a competition, even if you are a beginner. Summary of Aikido Master Ryuji Shirakawa's Aikido Performance Source :YouTube screenshot This video features many beautiful and powerful techniques by Aikido Master Ryuji Shirakawa. Please watch his performance in the video if you haven't yet, and enjoy the exchange of great techniques by Japanese martial artists. There are many dojos or training halls in Japan where anyone can learn Japanese martial arts including Jujitsu and Taijutsu. If you're interested in traditional Japanese martial arts, or if you feel like taking up a sport, you should visit a dojo or class where you can practice martial arts! 【Official Website】Aikido Shinburenseijuku http://www.shinburenseijuku.com/