From Wakeido, a product introduction. This is a sword attributed to Narie of Bizen from the Nanbokucho period(AD1350). Sword Mumei（unsigned） Nariie Certif [N.B.T.H.K] Jyuyo Touken Measurements Length 71.4 cm Sori (curvature) 15 mm Mekugi-ana (peg hole) 1 MOTO-HABA (base width) 32.5 mm SAKI-HABA (tip width) 25 mm MOTO-KASANE (base thickness) 7 mm Province Bizen(Okayama) Period Nanbokucho period Shape Shinogi-zukuri, iorimune, wide mihaba with little difference between base and tip width, slightly thick kasane, shallow overall sori with a belly curve, large kissaki Hada (forging) Itame with mokume and nagare textures mixed, somewhat prominent hada, ji-nie well attached in places, frequent chikei lines, faint utsuri appearing Hamon (temper) Generally low tempered line, small tare mixed with gunome, a few sharp-pointed teeth-like elements, komasaari (small foot) present, nioigachi (prefers nioi), kansuji present, occasional niokuchi depression Boshi (tip temper) Midare-komi with kansuji, on the omote the point is swept and looks yakitsume-like, on the ura it turns back shortly with a small round tip Carving Bo-hi drilled through on both sides Nakago (tang) O-suriage (shortened), saki-kiri, yasurime kiri Commentary Nariie of the Osafune school in Bizen Province is said by one account to be a descendant of Keishu (Mitsutada’s younger brother) and was active in the late Nanbokucho period as one of the smiths classified among those with kosori school. However, mei-kanki records list somewhat earlier years such as Bunwa through Koan, and based on style and mei characters a connection with Kanemitsu is also possible, requiring further study. His skill is comparable to Masamitsu of the Kanemitsu group from the same era. This sword displays the Nanbokucho-era style with a wide mihaba and large kissaki. The jigane shows itame forging with somewhat prominent hada and frequent chikei, producing irregular areas of changed iron that appear thick in places. The hamon is low notare and mixed gunome, demonstrating the distinctive features of Nariie belonging to the Kosori school type. Above all, its heavy, majestic presence and the varied, striking forging make this an outstanding piece.

Winter silence reflected in a circular window ■Shooting location Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel "Light Cave", Niigata Prefecture ■Background and thoughts behind the work I have long been deeply interested in contemporary architecture and geometric form, and I wanted to capture this space by architect Ma Yansong through my own lens. In the severe cold of February, a silver world spread beyond the tunnel. What I aimed to express in this image was the contrast between the clinical stainless steel walls, the rugged snow-covered mountains of nature, and the water-mirror that blurs the boundary between them. I paid particular attention to the placement of the figure and the balance of symmetry. In the quiet, blue space, a single human step adds a moment when a "story" is born within frozen time. My fingertips felt numb in the subzero air, but when the perfect circle and its reflection aligned through the viewfinder, I felt an indescribable exhilaration. This photograph is a precious memory from a winter trip that closed my study abroad life in Japan, taken while confronting my own sensibility.

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Videos. We are Wakeido, a specialty shop for buying and selling Japanese swords and traditional blades. We operate in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, buying, selling, and appraising nihonto (Japanese swords) and fittings. Founded over 70 years ago, we have built lasting relationships with many people through swords. In this first post, we would like to introduce who Wakeido is and what kinds of swords we handle. ■What is Wakeido? Wakeido is a sword specialist based in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, and we have provided many Japanese swords and sword fittings to customers. Our strength lies in offering authentic, NBTHK-certified items (appraisal papers issued by the Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords). We have experienced sword appraisal specialists on staff who provide reliable transactions and accurate guidance based on expert judgment and trust. We strive to give first-time visitors a welcoming consultation experience, so please feel free to contact us. ■What is a Japanese sword? A Japanese sword is a traditional blade made using Japan’s unique forging techniques and is often seen as a symbol of samurai culture. Beyond being a weapon, its aesthetic form, functional excellence, and historical background have earned it high regard domestically and internationally as an art object and cultural asset. Japanese swords generally have the following characteristics. ・They use a special steel called tamahagane ・A beautiful hamon (temper line) appears on the blade ・Their structure and hardening techniques make them hard to break, resistant to bending, and very sharp ・Shapes and features vary by period and swordsmith, giving them strong appeal for collectors At Wakeido, we consider it our important mission to convey these attractions of Japanese swords with correct knowledge and to pass them on to the next generation. ■What kinds of swords and fittings does Wakeido handle? Wakeido deals in a variety of sword types, including tachi, katana, wakizashi, and tanto. We also offer many sword fittings such as tsuba (handguards), fuchigashira (collar and pommel), menuki (ornamental grip pieces), and kozuka (small utility knife handles). These items often have high value as art objects and are popular for decoration and collecting. ■What about Wakeido’s online sales? If you cannot visit the store, we invite you to use our online shop for purchases. We ship to sword enthusiasts worldwide, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Europe, and Asia. How to order: https://wakeidou.com/pages/117/... Our official website includes product photos and detailed descriptions, so you can shop with confidence from anywhere in the country. One of our goals is to act as a bridge that shares the appeal of Japanese swords with the world. ■How can you sell or have a sword appraised? We evaluate and buy unwanted swords, swords inherited through succession, or blades whose value is unknown by assessing their condition and whether an appraisal certificate is present to arrive at a fair valuation. Estimates are, of course, free. We offer several purchase methods: in-store purchase, home-visit purchase, and mail-in appraisal services. You can choose the option that suits your convenience, so please feel free to consult us first. ■Where is Wakeido? Access information Our shop is located at 1-chome Kashiwa-cho, Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture. It is about a 13-minute walk from the West Exit of Nagaoka Station, and parking is available. Business hours: 9:00–18:00 Closed: 1st and 3rd Sundays ■For Anything Related to Japanese Swords, Turn to Wakeido We at Wakeido want to connect with everyone who is interested in Japanese swords and fittings through bonds formed around swords. ・Those who want to try purchasing a Japanese sword ・Those who want to sell or have a sword appraised ・Those who want to expand their collection ・Those who want to experience a sword for the first time We welcome both domestic and international customers. We will help you enjoy the appeal of Japanese swords as a cultural asset and pass that appeal on to the future. Thank you for your continued support of Wakeido. https://wakeidou.com//

Gala Yuzawa is one of my favorite ski destination near Tokyo. Its not only a good ski resort but also a fabulous sightseeing spots. The snow-capped mountain peaks looks very beautiful and during sunset time creates an unforgettable moments.

This is a photo taken of the Ono turtle on Sado Island in June. It was the time of year when the flowers called daylilies were in full bloom, and it seemed to be one of the most beautiful seasons of the year. I Outbound it for the first time, but just taking a walk makes me feel happy, I highly recommend it! The weather was great on this day and it was and to drive the Car to go. I would like to outbound in another season.

🌻 Tsunan Sunflower Square 🌻 Surrounded by sunflowers that bloom brilliantly in midsummer, I visited because I wanted to feel "summer". It was a masterpiece with sunflowers blooming all over the place, but I 📷✨ took a picture of some of them There is also a maze of sunflowers, and it is a Spot that is sure to be photogenic! It is a place where 🌻 families, couples, and photographers can enjoy a variety of things

I was born in Niigata, but I Outbound to Sado for the first time in the summer Vacation. When I visited Sado, I was able to go to a Local festivals at the right time, and this is one of the photos there. The Shishigajo Festival, Held in during the Obon season, is a Local Festival Held in in the Sawada area, and there is a Fireworks Fantasy There are in which music and fireworks perform together in the Finale. When Fireworks went off one after another in time with the song, the audience cheered and Gari sang along. The fireworks launched at close range on the Ocean were powerful enough to and with a thud on the body.

Notice: Event Information♪ Sister City Joetsu City Product Fair at the Dotou Festival Joetsu City in Niigata Prefecture, a sister city of Iwanai-cho, will hold a product fair at the Dotou Festival! Items for Sale Doburoku (unfiltered sake), sake, sasa-dango (bamboo-leaf rice cakes), shuttchijin mochi (departure mochi), rice, and more Date and Time: Saturday, August 2, 12:00–18:00 Sunday, August 3, 10:00–15:00 Venue: Special booth inside the Dotou Festival grounds Please take this opportunity to stop by and make a purchase♪

Title: Eating When heading from Niigata Port to Sado, it is a scene where kappa ebisen is fed to seabirds

A few years ago, at university, I became a licensed nurse and midwife. After graduating from university, I got a job in my Local Niigata. Due to the declining birthrate and aging population, the number of babies born is small, and the recruitment of midwives is low, so I decided to build a career as a nurse instead of a midwife. The profession of a nurse not only supports the daily lives of people facing illness, but also heals people's hearts at times, and at other times, it is wonderful to be involved in people's lives themselves. As a nurse, I also had a very fully equipped life. However, my longing for the profession of "midwife," which I had studied hard for and obtained a qualification for, did not disappear, and somewhere in my heart, my desire to take on the challenge became stronger. Just as I was thinking about changing jobs to a midwife, I found a very beautiful row of cherry blossom trees in my Local Nagaoka area. In the sunset, the cherry blossoms that were just beginning to bloom caught my eye. It was warm and dignified, like a baby born into this world. At that time, I felt encouraged by the cherry blossoms and decided to take on the challenge of becoming a midwife. This photo is of the cherry blossoms that gave me the final push after my struggle. You only live once, and I want to do what I like and want to do to the fullest, and enjoy my seemingly long and short life to the fullest.

Hoshitoge (Niigata Prefecture)2024.06.05 About 200 Paddy fields of various sizes Unfold on the slopes like fish scales, and it is a terraced rice field where a sea of clouds easily appears, and in 2022 it was certified as a "Tsunagu Terraced Rice Heritage" by the Ministry of Agriculture and Water. In May-June, Water enter the Paddy Field and become Water mirror. There is also a teahouse, which opens at dawn and you can enjoy freshly cooked rice balls.

Autumn is my favorite season in Japan. This is because of this aesthetic view. Enjoying the autumn from ropeway is very good but the view of autumn with the ropeway is amazing. The autumn valey in Yuzawa kogen ski resort is one of the best place to enjoy the autumn. Over the valley there is a ropeway service which looks like this image.

I may not know the name of the hill, but witnessing the Naeba Plateau in the fall is truly a breathtaking experience. It transforms into a stunning tapestry of autumn colors, as if it were aflame with beauty. The national highway that traverses the area adds to the scene, leading one through a charming tunnel that highlights nature's grandeur. It's a wonderful reminder of how harmoniously the landscape and human elements coexist.

Experience the stunning beauty of Futaiko, the emerald lake nestled in the breathtaking Naeba plateau—a true gem of nature! Japan's fall season is bursting with vibrant colors and incredible sights, and Naeba offers so much more than just skiing. This hidden treasure is less traveled, making it a serene escape where you can immerse yourself in the abundance of nature.

The crimson, gold, and green blend beautifully, reflecting on the lake's surface. The peace and beauty are indescribable. Autumn invites us to slow down, reflect on our lives, and fully embrace the present moment. This fantastic view was seen from Yuzawa Kogen alpine Botanical garden in Niigata prefecture.

This is one of the Nagaoka fireworks held in this year. I like the dark atmosphere of the red smoke reflected in the reflection of the light and the green bridge.

Dawn of Hoshitoge 2024.08.04 The sun came up and the light poured into the rice terraces. The morning dew was also shining.

Nagaoka Reconstruction Fireworks 2024.08.03 The brilliance of the three-shaku Jade The "Nagaoka Festival" unfolds gorgeously every year Its Origin is engraved in the history of Nagaoka, It is uttered on that summer day, which is the most harrowing. August 1, 1945 (Showa 20). That night, a large number of black shadows in the dark sky - B-29 heavy bombers attacked, From 10:30 p.m. to 1 hour and 40 minutes, the city was bombed. Eighty percent of the old town has been transformed into a burnt ruin. 1,488 precious lives were lost in the raging flames. The devastation is like a nightmare as far as the eye can see. People trembling with indescribable grief and indignation. At that time, it was Held in on August 1, 1946 (Showa 21), one year after the air raid. It is the predecessor of the Nagaoka Festival, the "Nagaoka Reconstruction Festival". This festival comforts the hearts of the citizens of Nagaoka, Encouraged and holding hands tightly, He approached the reconstruction of the city with an indomitable spirit.　Excerpt from HP

Nagaoka Fireworks 3 Shaku Jade 1945 Showa 20, the "Nagaoka Reconstruction Festival" was Held in the following year as a memorial to those who died in the Nagaoka air raid on August 1 and to pray for the reconstruction Origin of Nagaoka, Restrooms available later the 2nd and 3rd were designated as "fireworks festival Days" and are still passed down to this day. Taken from about 5 km away, it is a masterpiece 3 shaku Jade

Glaring at the sunset! Uonuma City, Niigata Prefecture. The Tadami Line heading to Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture, runs through the sunset with the three mountains of Echigo shining in the background.

The Tadami Line connects Uonuma City, Niigata Prefecture and Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima Prefecture. This photo was taken on December 26, 2023 in Uonuma City, Niigata Prefecture. The cold wave of the year has passed, and the rice fields filled with water, which had been frozen this morning, melted in the midday sun, and the sunset-dyed Mt. Gongendo and the Kiha E120 single train to Aizu were beautifully reflected!

Three mountains of Echigo in the winter sun... The Tadami Line heading to Aizu. 2023.12.26. Shooting.

The reflection of the blue sky and vivid autumn leaves was beautiful. It is deep in the mountains of Itoigawa City, Niigata Prefecture. There are not many people and hidden gem, but bear bells and bear repellent spray are essential.

It was a windless autumn sun. The vivid autumn leaves and blue sky were beautiful. I brought a bear bell and bear repellent spray.

Uonuma City, Niigata Prefecture Jizo of Kagagaike, Having chestnuts 🌰 offered, it became a piece that made me feel happy that the community is being protected and protected.

After shooting in Hakusan Park in search of other subjects, I looked up to go home and saw the shadow of a blue maple!!　Wow~~ I hurriedly took out the camera again and released the shutter.

This is a view of Kiyotsu Gorge at Autumn Foliage Peak. I was overwhelmed by the autumn leaves here!

This is a view of Kiyotsu Gorge at Autumn Foliage Peak. You can see a superb view with colorful colors. The trees are muffled and cute.

Hoshitoge Terraced Rice Fields Terraced rice fields in Tokamachi City.

I live in Niigata, and there was such a wonderful place that made me want to go again because the autumn leaves of Yahiko 🍁 were very beautiful and made me want to go again.