Komatsumei (Kodai) Fire Festival It is a fire Festival that is Held in on August 14 every year in Bungo-Ono City Ogata, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. It is a traditional event that has been handed down since the Edo period. The Origin is uncertain, but it is said to be for the memorial service of the Bon Festival, the insect chasing event to wish for a good harvest of Rice, and the memorial service for the victims of the putsch that occurred in the Edo period. On the day of the fire Festival, all Mr./Ms. local residents will prepare small torches from the area around Harajiri Falls to the rice fields around the Ogata Plain. At night, when about 10,000 small torches are lit at once, the light of the small torches Gari emerges from the area around Harajiri Falls to the Ogata Plain. Scenes are very fantastic. Restrooms available are also made of small torches such as Torii (shrine gates) and stone bridges unique to Ogata, and beauty competitions are held.

Hello! Kagoshima Prefecture Izumi City. Kagoshima Prefecture Izumi City is a city with a population of about 50,000 located in the northwestern part of Kagoshima Prefecture in the Kyushu region. In COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, we will send out the recommendations and Sightseeing spot Information of the Kagoshima Prefecture Izumi City, so Best regards! ◆◆◆ Kagoshima Prefecture Izumi City is the city of the best cranes in Japan In Izumi City, from mid-October to December every year, more than 10,000 cranes and crowned cranes migrate from Siberia and overwinter until around March. Boasting the largest number and variety of cranes in Japan, it was designated as a National Special Natural Monument in 1952 as "Cranes and their migration sites in Kagoshima Prefecture", and in 2021 it was certified as a Ramsar Convention registered wetland as a "wintering place for Izumi cranes". The graceful appearance of soaring in the sky and taking off all at once in the early morning have become a Winter tradition of this city. ◆◆◆ Some of the Sightseeing spot of Kagoshima Prefecture Izumi City ◇Samurai residences at the foot of Izumi Selected as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings and certified as a Japan Heritage Site, the Samurai residences at the foot of Izumi are a historic area where the samurai culture of the Edo period remains strong. In addition to the "Izumi foothills History Museum" where you can learn about the history of the Samurai residences group, and the "Takezoe residence" and "Saisho residence" where Open to the public Samurai residences you can get a glimpse of the lifestyle and architectural style of the residents, the cityscape that retains the appearance of that time, such as the stone walls and the samurai gate about 400 years ago, are also attractive. ◇Izumi City Crane Observation Center It is located There is a in front of the crane roost, and you can see more than 10,000 cranes up close from the observation deck on the second floor and rooftop. It is open every year from November 1 to the second Sunday of March, which coincides with the wintering period of cranes, and the sight of cranes soaring gracefully in the sky and the sight of all cranes taking off all at once in the early morning is a spectacular view that can only be seen here in the world. ◇Izumi City Tsuru Museums Crane Park Izumi If you want to learn about cranes, go to Crane Park Izumi! It is the only crane museum in Japan where you can learn not only about cranes wintering in Izumi City, but also about cranes from around the world. Restrooms available in the premises flower park, where you can enjoy seasonal flowers, playground equipment for children to play, and a tree house. ◇Hakozaki Yawata Shrine Hakozaki Yawata Shrine enshrines a large bell that is 4 meters high and weighs 5 tons. The bell depicts a parent and child of a crane, and it is called "Great Bell of Wish Fulfillment if it is done, it will be grown." ◇Uwaba Highlands Cosmos Garden It is a Highlands with rape flowers blooming all over the place in Spring and 250,000 cosmos trees in autumn. During the Cosmos season, they also sell Specialty Products and gelato. ◇Shinonome no Sato A large garden of about 40,000 tsubo that has been Maintenance by making the most of the undulations of the mountain as it is in its nature. You can enjoy Shidarezakura (weeping cherry blossoms) in Spring, hydrangeas all over the mountains in June, and colorful Autumn leaves in autumn. In addition, there is a rest area in the park where you can eat the owner's special Juwari Soba, and a facilities to enjoy pottery and paintings Restrooms available. ◇ Specialty Hall Izumi The vegetables and fruits lined up in the Inside the Museum are all "Izumi products". Among them, citrus fruits, mainly tangerines, which are specialty products, are sold in a wide variety and quantity. ◇ Izumi City Izumi Station Tourist Specialty Products "Hirai-ri" It is a facility set up in Izumi Station on the Kyushu Shinkansen as an information transmission base for Izumi City. The Inside the Museum is equipped with a tourist Information Center, a Specialty Products sales office, a Meals office, and a rest area. ◆◆◆ Kagoshima Prefecture Izumi City Specialty Products ◇Tea Izumi City is also famous as a tea producing area. Tea, grown in a temperate climate and fertile soil, is characterized by its aroma and deep taste. ◇Izumi mandarin oranges Grown in the sea breeze, it boasts a sweet and juicy taste. Fresh tangerines can be purchased at Local markets and Direct sales. ◇ Seaweed from Izumi It is a seaweed seaweed created by an old-fashioned manufacturing method that does not use acid treatment, and encapsulates the blessings of Nature one by one. It has a soft sweetness that loosens and melts in the mouth, an elegant aroma that escapes through the nose, and a wild taste. ◆◆◆ Some of the festival and Events of Kagoshima Prefecture Izumi City ◇ Summer Festival Izumi Kakusho Festival It is a festival that is Held in for two days in late July every year. On the first day, parades and General dance will be held in the Izumi City Honmachi shopping district, and on the second day, stage Events, Stalls Stalls, and fireworks festival will be held. About 5,000 Gari fireworks are launched. ◇Izumi City Industrial Festival It is Held in on Saturdays and Sundays in mid-November every year, and is Held in with many industries such Izumi as the "hometown Izumi Specialty Market", "Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Festival", "Food and Beverage Festival", etc., and festival Izumi City is while incorporating many industries. In addition to Izumi City's Specialty Products, you can also buy Specialty Products from friendship cities and sister cities, and there are stage Events, so it is crowded with many people from outside the city. ◇ Medium City It is a festival held in every year on the day of the Spring Equinox in March and the day after that in front of the Takaono Station intersection. It becomes a pedestrian paradise for about 1 km from north to south, east and west, and many Stalls are lined up. Also known as "Soba (buckwheat noodles) City", it is also counted as one of the three major cities in Kagoshima Prefecture. ◆◆◆ Introducing Kagoshima Prefecture Izumi City Tourist Information Kagoshima Prefecture Izumi City is a fascinating Sightseeing spot with rich Nature and history. We will send out Kagoshima Prefecture Izumi City recommended Tourist Information that will be engraved on one page of everyone's memories, so please follow us!

[Nakasendo Narai juku] It is called "Narai Senken" because of the difficult Torii (shrine gate) pass in the Nakasendo one of the best, and it is the busiest Shukuba among the Kiso 11 inn. The towns has been selected as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, and the appearance of the past remains strong, and the townscape of about 1 km along the Narai River is the longest Shukuba in Japan. In addition to preservation, the fact that it is a town where people still live is also an attraction of Narai juku. This award-winning Shukuba was also the setting for the 2011 TV series "Ohi-sama" and is Fascination to this historic Shukuba every year by many visit people from Japan and abroad as a place where you can feel the beauty of the Restrooms available of Japan.Mr./Ms. ◇Basic Information ・ Parking lot: Nearest Roadside Station "Kiso Ohashi" parking lot (free), 　Alternatively, please use the Gonbei parking lot (charged) ・Inquiries: Narai Juku Tourist Information Center TEL 0264-34-3160

no season is offseason for Japan. In summer there are so many thing to see and do here in Kawagoe. Kawagoe is a historical town known as coedo or little edo. It is a edo period warehouse district. Tokinokane or the bell tower which is the landmark of Kawagoe can be seen nicely. This couple was enjoying the traditional and historical city in a traditional fashion. The old style house and bell tower in the background makes the atmosphere more beautiful.

[The cityscape of the Edo period continues for 1 km! ] Special Feature on the Charm of Narai Juku] Introducing Narai Juku, located in the northernmost part of Kisoji! Narai Juku is a place of great historical value, as it was designated as a national Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in Showa 53, and Kisoji including Narai Juku was registered as a Japan Heritage Site in 2016 (Heisei 28). Narai juku is a cityscape of the Edo period that stretches for about 1 km. You can enjoy sightseeing just by walking while looking at the cityscape. Restrooms available show completely different expressions in each season, so no matter how many times you go in one year, you won't get tired of seeing them! Inside Narai Juku, you can enjoy Nagano Prefecture's specialties such as Soba (buckwheat noodles), Gohei Mochi, Oyaki, and Japan sake. You can also buy local crafts such as Kiso lacquerware and curved objects as Souvenirs! By the way, the production area of Kiso lacquerware is a place called "Kiso Hirasawa" right next to Narai Juku, and this Kiso Hirasawa is also designated as a national Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings! It's fun to come to Narai juku! !! There are also shops where you can dress in kimonos and yukatas, so you can dress up and walk through the streets of the Edo period, which is truly a time slip! In the past, it has been a filming location for Morning Drama and is also popular as a sacred place. Please come to Narai juku!

During a recent visit to the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter in Japan, I was enchanted by the beautiful white-walled townscape and the rich history and art it held. The serene atmosphere along the Kurashiki River, with its white-walled warehouses and willow trees, offered a truly unique and charming experience. Exploring the traditional buildings and modern shops, such as the Kurashiki Canvas and Kurashiki Denim stores, was a delight. The area was bustling with tourists. I spent an entire day enjoying myself in the history, art, and culture of this remarkable quarter and look forward to returning in the future.

【Banned River】 The Isumi River under Otaki Castle was called the Otomegawa River. In the Edo period, the Murasaki carp caught here was presented to the shogun, so the common people were prohibited from catching fish here. That's why it was a forbidden river.

[Mexico Street] The road leading from Otaki High School to Otaki Castle is Mexico Street. When Honda Tadakatsu's son, Tadatomo, was the lord of Otaki Castle, Don Rodrigo's boat, which was heading from the Philippines to Mexico, was wrecked and streamed on the Iwada Coast of Onjuku. The situation when Don Rodrigo went to see Tadatomo is described in "Memoirs of Japan Observations". The sidewalks of Mexico Street are made of cute tiles.

I went to Wada-juku Main Camp! It was hot outside, but it was scary inside. It's an atmosphere that makes me want to meditate quietly.

Hello to all COOL JAPAN VIDEOS viewers! This is the Nagiso Tourism Association. Nagiso Town, Kiso-gun, Nagano Prefecture is a town of about 3,600 people in the southwestern part of Nagano Prefecture. 94% of the town is forested, of which about 70% is national forest. It is formed in seven regions: Yogawa, Northern part (Kakizore), Midono, Tsumago, Araragi, Hirose, and Tadachi. In the COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, we will introduce plenty of the charms of Nagiso Town, so please enjoy it! ◆History of Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture◆ Nagiso Town flourished during the Edo period as a Shukuba-machi on the Nakasendo Highway connecting Kyoto and Edo. In "Tsumago juku" and "Midono juku", where travelers interacted and culture blossomed, the Old streets of that time still remain. ◆Introduction of sightseeing spots in Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture◆ 【Tenpaku azalea colony】 Located in Tenpaku Park, it is a large communities of Mitsuba azaleas designated as a natural monument of the town. Best time to visit in Spring, 400 azalea plants dye the garden beautiful pink and white. Since it is located on a hill in the park, you can overlook Kiso Komagatake and other places. 【Tsumago Yado Preservation District】 Maintenance as the 42nd Shukuba from Edo on the Nakasendo Road, it still retains strong faces of the Edo period. In 1976, it was designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. At Wakihonjin Okuya, you can also experience the life of the past by the sunken hearth. Walking through the Old streets allows you to feel the romance of a timeless journey. 【Kakizore Canyon (Oyster each keikoku)】 It is said to be one of the most beautiful Valleys in Kisoji. Azaleas and rhododendrons in Spring and autumn leaves can be enjoyed throughout the year. Use the nature trails and promenades along the Valleys to see the granite hollowed-out Ushigataki Waterfall and Kirigataki Waterfall. 【Tadachi Waterfall】 The "Uru Falls", "Rasen Falls", "Senshin Falls", "Kirigataki Waterfall", "Tenga Falls", "Fudo Falls", and "Somen Waterfall" that span the canyon of the Otaki River are collectively called Tadachi Waterfall. In 1990, it was recognized as a 100 best waterfalls in Japan and in 2020 it was designated as a Central Alps National Park. 【Yogawa Michi】 The Yogawa Michi was built as a detour when the Nakasendo Road became impassable due to the flooding of the Kiso River. The moss-covered forest road with stones and bamboo bushes beside the highway is a great Hiking Course. 【Momosuke Bridge】 Completed in 1922, more than 100 years ago, it is the largest wooden bridge in Japan with a total length of 247 meters. It was designated as a National Important Cultural Property in 1994 【Mt. Nagiso】 Mt. Nagiso, with an elevation of 1,677 meters, was a mountain of Mountain asceticism in ancient times. The mountain trail offers steep slopes, gentle slopes, and chain grounds. It is popular as a mountain where you can easily climb on a day trip. ◆Specialty products of Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture◆ Surrounded by forests, Nagiso Town has long been home to wooden crafts. The traditional technique of carving wooden boards and logs with a potter's wheel while rotating them with a Nagiso wheel is carefully made one by one by craftsmen. It fascinates many people with its delicate beauty made with craftsmanship that has been passed down from generation to generation. ◆Festivals and events in Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture◆ 【Tadachi Hanauma Festival】 At the festivals held every year in October to give thanks for the bountiful harvest of five grains, three Kiso horses decorated with saddles slowly parade through the town. In 1993, it was designated as an Intangible folk cultural asset of Nagano Prefecture ◆Tourist Information of Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture◆ Nagiso Town in Nagano Prefecture is an attractive area with its magnificent natural scenery and rich history. Please spend a memorable time in the beautiful nature and history of Nagiso Town. Best regards for COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, we will send out Recommendations and Latest Information on Nagiso Town.

This is higashichaya district. A chaya is basically “tea house “... during the edo period this place was crowded with rich people who came here for entertainment. Mainly geisha performance were the prime attraction. there are two more chaya districts popular in kanazawa. The other two are nishichaya and kazuemachi.. love that experienced and highly recommended place to visit in 2023.

The Edo Castle, once the largest fortress, was transformed into the imperial residence Kōkyo after the shogunate fell and the emperor moved to Tokyo. The castle was significantly damaged by fires in 1873 and again during WWII air raids. The moats and stone walls visible around the palace grounds are remnants of the original castle. This location is a popular spot for tourists from all over the world. I captured this photo of the palace during a snowy twilight, when there were very few tourists around. They were struck by the rare beauty of the palace during the snowfall and found it especially captivating to see a lone woman enjoying the serene scene.

Lets discover the feudal lord era of Toyama. Toyama Castle situated in the center of Toyama City. It was actually built in 1543 by the local feudal lord Sassa Narimasa. Unfortunately, the castle keep was dismantled during the Meiji Restoration. Over the years, the castle underwent several renovations and reconstructions, the latest in 1954. Today, the castle is a top tourist attraction, offering visitors a unique opportunity to learn more about Japan’s feudal history.

How do you do! This is the Otaki Tourist Association. Chiba Prefecture Isumi County Otaki Town is a town of about 8,000 people located in the middle of the The Boso peninsula Peninsula. About one and a half hours from Tokyo, the easily accessible Otaki Town is known for its natural beauty and rich history, which fascinates many visitors. In this First Post, we will deliver the charm of Otaki Town and recommended sightseeing spots, so please Enjoy it until the end. ==History of Chiba Prefecture Otaki Town== As a Otaki Castle Castle Town with one of the Four Heavenly Kings of Tokugawa "Honda Tadakatsu" as the castle owner, it flourished from the Sengoku period to the Edo period. Otaki Castle is known as the symbol of Otaki Town and captivates many history buffs and tourists. In the town, there are still faces of that time. ==Introduction to Chiba Prefecture Otaki Town Sightseeing Spots== ◇Otaki Castle It is a castle tower museum built in Showa 50, which has been selected as a "Chiba Prefecture Designated Historic Site" and "One of the 100 best castles in Japan". Documents that allow you to learn about the history of The Boso peninsula and the life of the Castle Town are on display. Currently, Otaki Castle is closed for facility renovation. ◇Otaki Castle Town Otaki Town is lined with old buildings that are also cultural properties. There are houses, shops and shrines where you can get a glimpse of life at that time, and it is a recommended Spot for history lovers. Take a stroll through the Castle Town, which retains strong faces of the Edo period, and feel the romance of a timeless journey. ◇Yoro Valley Valleys straddles Ichihara City, Kimitsu City, Kamogawa City in the southern part of Chiba Prefecture, and Isumi County Otaki Town, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the four seasons, especially the autumn leaves are Famous. Popular Spots nearby include Awamata Waterfall, Suigetsu Temple, Ruins of the Kobundo Tunnel, Mukoyama Kyoei Tunnel and Kannon Bridge. Please note that due to the flooding of the Yoro River by Typhoon No. 13 in 2023, it is currently Closed except for some parts. ◇Asawahara Highlands With about 20,000 hydrangeas in bloom, it is known as the best hydrangea spot in the Kanto region. Since it is located at an elevation of 340 meters, it blooms later than in the flatlands, and the best time to see it is best time to visit from late June to mid-July every year. ◇Isumi Railway It is a local railway with a total length of about 26.8 kilometers connecting Isumi City and Otaki Town, and you can enjoy seasonal flowers and rural scenery along the line. During the rape blossom season in early Spring, the entire area is dyed bright yellow with rape flowers, and it is popularly known as the "Rapeseed Blossom Train". ◇Roadside Station Takeyura no Sato Otaki Fresh local vegetables and specialty products are lined up, and it is also recommended as a souvenir of The Boso peninsula. At the Shokudo, you can taste shiitake mushrooms, Otaki Town's specialty bamboo shoots, and game dishes such as Wild boar meat. ==Local festival & Events in Chiba Prefecture Otaki Town== ◇Otaki Castle Festival Samurai parades and various events are held at the festivals held every autumn. It is a popular local festivals that will be held for the 50th time in 2024. ==Chiba Prefecture Otaki Town Specialty Products Gourmet == Otaki bamboo shoots, which boast one of the largest production volumes in the Tokyo metropolitan area, are white in color and are also called "white bamboo shoots" because of their High quality, which is very soft. Taste of food is small, so you can eat it without removing the bad smell. "Otaki bamboo shoots" are also popular as thank-you gifts for Furusato Nozei tax payment. ==Chiba Prefecture Otaki Town Tourist Information== Chiba Prefecture Otaki Town is a region rich in nature and deep history. Spending time away from everyday life in Otaki Town will be a memorable time. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will provide Recommendations and Latest Information on Otaki Town, so thank you.

HELLO VIEWERS OF COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! This is the Shinshu Toumi Tourism Association. Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture is a city in the eastern part of Nagano Prefecture. Surrounded by the Asama mountain range of Joshinetsu Kogen National Park to the north and Tateshina and Yatsugatake to the south, it is an area rich in Rich in nature, with more than half of the city being mountain forests and one-fourth being fields. The city was created in 2002 by the merger of Higashimomachi and Kitamomaki Village, and became "Tomi City" by taking one letter each of the Omi of Higashimomachi "east" and Kitamomaki Village. There is the Joshinetsu Expressway "Tobu Yunomaru Interchange" and the Shinano Railway "Tanaka Station" and "Shigeno Station", and it is about 2 hours from Central Tokyo and about 1 hour from Nagano City and Matsumoto City. ==Recommended sightseeing spots in Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== ・Unno Yado Opened in 1625 as a Shukuba-juku on the Kitakuni Highway, it is a tourist destination that still retains its original appearance. You can feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Edo period. ・Myojin Pond It is a pond built in the Edo period, and it is Maintenance as an Art Village Park centered on the pond, and you can see the beautiful scenery of the four seasons such as New green and autumn leaves in the Satoyama. There are facilities in the park such as the Umeno Memorial Picture Gallery and the Fureaikan. ・Unnojyuku History and Folklore Museum The building built around 1790 in the Edo period is still used as a Documents Museum. The climate, history, and documents of Unno Yado are on display ・Roadside Station Raiden Walnut Village At the Roadside Station at the entrance to Yunomaru Highland, you can enjoy a meal that makes use of hand-made soba "Inutate Soba" and local ingredients at the restaurant. Local agricultural products and specialty products are lined up, so it is also recommended to buy Souvenirs for sightseeing in Tomi City. ・Yunomaru Ski Resort It is the closest powder snow ski resort to Central Tokyo, and the six slopes can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced skiers. The business period is from late November to early April every year. ・Yunomaru Plateau It is a plateau located on the west side of the Asama mountain ranges, and the Renge azalea of Azalea Plain is also designated as a national natural monument. Every year, when the Renge azalea is in full bloom, the "Yunomaru Kogen Azalea Festival" is held. ・Yurakuchi-kan Wine & Beer Museum It is a facility where you can experience Tomi Wine, such as an exhibition room that introduces the history of Tomi Wine, winery Information in Tomi City, grape cultivation amount, etc., and a tasting area and wine sales centered on Tomi City wine. A wine concierge is also available, so be sure to find your favorite wine. ==Specialty products and gourmet foods of Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== Kyoho grapes, walnuts, sweet corn, Shirado potatoes, and broccoli are specialty products of Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture. These specialty products are also popular as thank-you gifts for roadside stations and Furusato Nozei tax payments. In addition, wineries are being born one after another in Tomi City, and wine taxis are also operated to visit wineries in the city. ==Events and festivals in Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== ・Raiden Festival It is a major summer event in Tomi City held at Tanaka Shopping Street, and there are performances and dances on stage, and many Kitchen Cars are lined up in the shopping street. At the climax, the festivals are enlivened by a dance parade. ・Unno Yado Fureai Festival It is a festival held every November at Uminojuku, Old Kitakuni Highway, Unno Juku, and a procession dressed in Edo period costumes parades through the city. The buildings and gardens of Unno Yado, which you cannot usually see, will be opened. ==Agricultural experience in Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== The idyllic atmosphere of Tomi City, with its fields spread all around, is difficult to enjoy in the Central Tokyo. There is also a travel plan where you can enjoy farming experience while interacting with the warm and friendly people of Tomi City. Even if you visit sightseeing for the first time in Tomi, the local staff will support you so that you can participate with peace of mind. Agricultural experience plans include "Rice cultivation", "Apple cultivation", "Corn harvesting experience", and "Traditional Japanese straw raincoat harvesting experience". ==Recommended Information for Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== The Nature of the Tomi City and the atmosphere of the historic city Fascination those who visit. Please feel the charm of Tomi City firsthand. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will provide recommended Information that will help you plan your trip to Tomi City.

How do you do! This is the Kiso Tourism Federation! Kiso, Nagano Prefecture is a region in the Kiso River basin of Nagano Prefecture and consists of eight cities and towns: Nakatsugawa City, Nagiso Town, Okuwa Village, Agematsu Town, Kiso Town, Otaki Village, Kiso Village, and Shiojiri City. Located in a valley surrounded by 3,000-meter-high mountains that have been selected as a 100 Famous Mountains of Japan, it is an area where delicious air, water, and Healing space brought by Nature spread. The historic Shukuba-juku town still remains along the old Along the road and is visited by many travelers. In this article, we will introduce you to the history and highlights of the Kiso, as well as Information local Specialty Products and events. ◆History of Kiso, Nagano Kiso The Nakasendo Highway, which connected Kyoto and Edo during the Edo period, was an important highway with many people coming and going. Kiso, which is part of the Nakasendo Highway, has prospered as a transportation hub since ancient times, with many travelers and supplies coming and going. Many Shukuba-juku towns have developed and retain their faces even today, and Kisoji was designated as the first Japanese heritage site in Nagano Prefecture. At that time, 69 Shukuba were placed in the Nakasendo 540-kilometer process, of which 11 Shukuba are located in Kisoji. Nakasendo Kisoji 11 Shukuba ・Niekawa Juku ・Narai juku ・Yauhara juku ・Miyanokoshi juku ・Fukushima juku ・Agematsu juku ・Suhara-juku ・Nojiri juku ・Midono juku ・Tsumago juku ・Magome juku Even now, the cityscape of the Edo period Unfolds on Kisoji, and you can feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Edo period. ◆Introduction of tourist spots in Kiso, Nagano Kiso ◇Kiso Kaida Highlands Elevation Kaida Highlands overlooking Mt. Ontake, which stretches for 1,100 to 1,400 meters, is Unfolds with rural scenery. There are sports facilities and Hot spring facilities, and it is crowded with many tourists. At the "Kiso Horse Village" in the Highlands, you can also enjoy horseback riding and horse-drawn carriage experiences. ◇Nezame-no-Toko On the floor of Nezame-no-Toko in Agematsu town, you can see a strangely shaped granite rock that looks like a row of large boxes. It was designated as a national scenic spot in 1923 and became a Central Alps National Park in 2020. ◇Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest It is one of Japan's three most beautiful forests in Agematsu town, and there is a forest of natural Kiso Hinoki trees that are more than 300 years old. It is also the birthplace of forest bathing, where Japan's first forest bathing competition was held in 1982. ◇Ontake Lake, Shizenko (Nature Lake) The beautiful lake in Otaki village also offers ontake lake canoe touring and Shizenko (Nature Lake) nature canoe tours. Since you can see the beautiful appearance of the four seasons, it is a popular photo Spot and is visited by many tourists throughout the year. ◇Atera Canyon The emerald green clear streams of Atera Canyon in Okuwa Village are called "Atera Blue" and are a popular healing spot for girls' trips. ◆Introduction of Roadside Station in Kiso, Nagano Kiso At the Roadside Station, fresh vegetables and specialty products from the local Kiso are lined up, and you can enjoy Kiso's gourmet food. Souvenirs are also recommended! ・Roadside Station Kiso Fukushima (Kiso Town, Kiso-gun, Nagano Prefecture) ・Roadside Station Hiyoshi Kiso Koma Kogen (Hinoyoshi, Kiso-cho, Kiso-gun, Nagano) ・Roadside Station Kiso River Headwaters Village Kisomura (Kiso Village, Kiso-gun, Nagano Prefecture) ◆Introduction of Specialty products and crafts of Kiso, Nagano Kiso Kiso is also known for its rich specialty products nurtured by its natural environment. Matsutake mushrooms in Kiso town are famous for their high aroma and are popular as a taste of autumn. Sunki, pickled red turnip, and Maki of magnolia leaves are traditional gourmet foods in Kiso where you can enjoy their unique flavors. In addition, Kiso lacquerware is an Ancient tradition that has been handed down in the Kiso area for a long time, and the longer it is used, the warmer and luster it becomes, and the more beautiful it shines. ◆Introduction of local events and festivals in Kiso, Nagano Kiso ◇Mizunashi Shrine Festival (Mikoshi (portable shrine) roll) This festival, held every July, is a rare festivals in Japan where about 100 kan (about 400 kg) Mikoshi (portable shrines) are rolled or dropped and destroyed overnight, and is also called "One of the world's strangest festivals". ◇Kiso Yoshinaka Flag Raising Festival It is a festival registered as a Component Cultural Assets, and mourns Lord Yoshinaka, lights a fire character in the shape of a "tree" on Mt. Yamabuki, and a warrior procession parades through the town. ◆Introduction of Kiso, Nagano Prefecture Kiso, Nagano Kiso is a fascinating region for its magnificent nature and rich history. While walking along the old highways that have remained since the Edo period, you can feel the unchanging scenery that travelers must have felt at that time. We will continue to send out Information that will convey the charm of Kiso to everyone who sees COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, so Best regards!

This is the Iwata Tourism Association. Nice to meet you all!! Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a city in the western part of Shizuoka Prefecture, located about halfway between Tokyo and Osaka. It is also known as a "sports town" and is also the home of professional sports such as the Jubilo Iwata of the J.League, the Shizuoka SSU Bonita of the Japan Women's Soccer Nadeshiko League, and the Shizuoka Blue Revs of Japan Rugby League One, where "sports Town planning" and "health promotion through sports" are promoted. ◆What is Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture? ◆ The population is about 160,000. There are interchanges of the Tomei Expressway and the Second Tomei Expressway in the city, and it is about 3 hours by car from Tokyo and about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Nagoya. The gateway on the Shinkansen is Hamamatsu Station or Kakegawa Station. Transfer to the Tokaido Line and go to three stations in Iwata City (Iwata Station, Toyotacho Station, Mikuriya Station) for 10~15 minutes. Since ancient times, it has developed as the center of "Toei Province (Land of Toomi)" with Toei Province branch temples and Toei Kokubu. More than 900 Kofun Tumulus from the Kofun period still exist, and it is a "town" where history is told. In the Edo period, it flourished as the "Mitsuke inn" of the 53rd order of the Tokaido Highway. In recent years, in addition to the textile industry, which is a local products industry, it has become an industrial city for metals, automobiles, musical instruments, etc., and is also one of the prefecture's leading agricultural outputs, Famous for greenhouse melons, tea, white onions, shrimp-shaped potatoes, Chinese vegetables, and Shirasu, a marine product. It is an area where urban and rural areas are developing in a balanced manner. ◆Introduction to sightseeing spots in Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture◆ 【Mitsuke inn】 It is a Shukuba-machi town located almost in the center of the 53rd order of the Tokaido Road (the 28th Shukuba), and there are still several alleys that enter Yokomachi along the Along the road, and there are many shrines and temples scattered around, and you can feel the faces of that time and the atmosphere of the Shukuba. Other, the area is dotted with attractions such as the Former Mitsuke School, the oldest existing wooden Pseudo-Western style elementary school building in Japan, the Iwata Bunko (each national historic site), the Mitsuke Tenjin Naked Festival, the Mitsuke Tenjin Yanahiru Shrine, where the legend of Shippei Taro's spiritual experience remains, and the former Akamatsu Family Memorial Hall, which is a designated cultural property of the prefecture and city. In 2022, Former Mitsuke School and Iwata Bunko were certified as "Shizuoka Heritage" along with "Mitsuke Inn" and "Mitsuke Tenjin Yanahiru Shrine" as "the crystallization of Shizuoka people who are passionate about modern education". 【Ryuyo Marine Park】 It is a seaside park with a marine center with sports facilities and a multipurpose plaza. There are tennis courts, baseball fields, playground equipment, roller slides, auto camp grounds, etc. on the vast site, making it a Spot that you can enjoy with children. At the auto camp site, you can buy local products, and "Shiosai Ryuyo", which also has a restaurant, BBQ facilities, and bathing facilities, is adjacent and has been well received. The Ocean Center also offers experience menus such as standup paddleboarding. 【Nagisa Exchange Center, Fukuda Fishing Port Area】 "Nagisa Exchange Hall" is located in the Fukuda Fishing Port harbor overlooking the magnificent Enshu Nada. It is a food court where you can enjoy raw Shirasu rice bowls and kamaage Shirasu bowls while looking at the sea. Other, there is a "Sandbox for Everyone" where you can enjoy beach soccer and beach volleyball, and an "Event Plaza" where you can hold outdoor events. There is a fishing spot where you can enjoy fishing in front of you, and the Toyohama Coast just to the east is a surfing spot with good waves that hold a national surfing tournament. On the other hand, in addition to the Famous "Shirasu Fishing" at Fukuda Fishing Port, the recreational fishing boat industry is also thriving, and it is also a base for offshore fishing in Enshu Nada by fishing boats. 1~2 minutes from the fishing port, there are many "Shirasu Processing Plants", and customers come from far away to buy Shirasu. 【Shishigahana Park】 This park, which has the legend of the opening of the mountain by Kobo Daishi, has a promenade and Athletic Maintenance, and you can enjoy the nature of the four seasons, such as cherry blossoms and azaleas in Spring, forest bathing and bird watching in the New Green in early summer, and autumn leaves in autumn, making it ideal for hiking and walking. From the Observation decks, you can see Enshu Nada in the distance, and it is a First sunrise Spot on New Year's Day. 【Yamaha Stadium】 [Yamaha Motor Communication Plaza] It is the home stadium of Jubilo Iwata for soccer and Shizuoka Blue Revs for rugby. It is about a 15-minute walk from the north exit of JR Mikuriya Station. Visit many fans from Japan and abroad on match days. In addition, there is a corporate museum called "Communication Plaza" right next door to Yamaha Motor Headquarters, which is an attractive place for industrial tourism where you can experience Yamaha Motor's products and history. 【Ruins of Toe Kokubunji Temple】 Excavations began in 1951, and the following year it was declared a National Special Historic Site. Kokubunji Temple had a seven-storied pagoda, an auditorium, a middle gate, and a cloister centered on the Kondo. In addition, the ruins of the seven-storied pagoda and other major temples have been discovered, and they have been designated as National Special Historic Site in the 1952 (Showa 27). In the Maintenance Project for the 2022 (Reiwa 4) Degree, the Auditorium and the Wooden base platform of the monk's cell located on the north side of the Ruins of Toe Kokubunji Temple were Maintenance, and in the 5th year of Reiwa, the Wooden base platform of the Kondo Hall, the central building of the temple, was Maintenance. In the Kondo hall, the foundation stone that supports the pillars of the building and the stone staircase installed in front of the Front of Kindan are also planned to be restored. It is a valuable historical heritage that tells us that Iwata was the center of this area. ◆Specialty products of Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture◆ Iwata City's specialty products include shrimp-shaped taro, Iwata tea, Aroma melon, white onion, and Koro-kaki (persimmon), all of which directly feel the blessings of nature. Locally grown ingredients are known for their freshness and taste. Seafood such as Shirasu, natural Tiger puffer fish and grilled grilled eel are also popular, and Shirasu in particular is a gastronomical delicacies that swims in the fast currents of the nearby sea. These specialty products are also popular as souvenirs and thank-you gifts for Furusato Nozei. ◆Festivals and events in Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture◆ 【Fufu Hachimangu Festival】 It is held every year on the first Saturday and Sunday of October in the Nakaizumi area. Elaborately decorated festival floats are towed around in each town. It is a festivals full of emotion with the sound of drums and flutes, and dashing shouts. 【Mitsuke Tenjin Naked Festival】 It is a major festival of Mitsuke Tenjin Yanahiru Shrine (Yanahimejinja) and is now designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset. It is held every year on the Saturday and Sunday just before the 10th day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar. The highlight of the festival is the time from 9 p.m. to midnight on Saturday night, when the naked parade and the passing of the Mikoshi (portable shrine) are held, and from 1 a.m. the next day. Naked men parade through the area of the old Tokaidō and Mitsuki in four groups called ladders, and then head to the worship hall of Yanahiru Shrine. In the worship hall, the enthusiasm increases with each new group, and a fierce parade (demon dance) continues. At midnight, all the lights in the area are extinguished, and the climax is reached when the Mikoshi (portable shrine) crosses through the pitch black darkness. ◆ Disseminating the Information of Shizuoka Prefecture Iwata City ◆ In Iwata City, you can feel the history and culture that has been nurtured over a long period of time. In 2022, Iwata City's "Teratani Water" was registered as a World Irrigation Facility Heritage Site, adding another historical story that Iwata City is proud of. In 2023, it will return to first place in Japan in the ranking of cities and towns that come to mind as a "sports town", and its brand image as a "sports town" has become established. Even so, the charm and power that cannot be fully described in this posted are still alive in the history and culture of Iwata, the nature of the sea and mountains, industry, and people's lifestyles. Best regards will continue to send out Recommendations on COOL JAPAN VIDEOS!

Nice to meet you all and welcome to COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! This is the Hayakawa Tourism Association. Minamikoma-gun Hayakawa Town, Yamanashi Prefecture, is a town located in the southwest of Yamanashi Prefecture, and is the only "town" in Japan with a population of less than 1,000, with 947 people (as of April 1, 2024), making it the least populated town in Japan. It is also a Rich in nature town surrounded by Akaishi Mountains mountains, and it is a Rich in nature area surrounded by large and small waterfalls and Valleys. Hot springs are also abundant, and Nishiyama Hot spring, which has a history of 1,300 years of hot springs, is home to the world's oldest inn certified by the Guinness Book of Records. ■■■History of Hayakawa Town, Yamanashi Prefecture In 1956, Hayakawa Town was formed by the merger of six villages: Motodate Village, Goka Village, Suzurishima Village, Miyakogawa Village, Misato Village, and Nishiyama Village. In 1960, the population increased to more than 10,000 due to the influx of people involved in hydroelectric power generation construction, but the population has since declined and is now "the least populated town in Japan". ■■■Introduction to sightseeing spots in Hayakawa Town ・Akazawa Inn It flourished as a lodging place for Rest stop for pilgrims to Mt. Shichimen, and still retains the faces of the Edo period. In 1993, it was recognized as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. ・Shuku-no-eki Shimizuya It is a tourist information center and rest area that has been renovated from an old accommodations in Akazawa Inn. Specialty products and crafts of the region are sold. ・Bentendo waterfall It is a waterfall at the back of the Hagoromo Trailhead to Mt. Shichimen and is known as a place for ascetics. In winter, you can see the icefall where the waterfall freezes. ・Hayakawa Local History Museum It is a document building that retains the exterior of the Village Hall of Misato Village. Hayakawa Town's traditional culture, crafts, and history are on display. ・Yushima's Great Cedar Tree Legend has it that it was planted 1,200 years ago, and it is the largest cedar tree in Yamanashi Prefecture at Sanno Shrine. In 1958, it was designated as a natural monument designated by Yamanashi Prefecture. ・Hayakawa Valley In the Valleys that stretches from the Arakura area to the Narada District, you can see the beautiful scenery of the four seasons, such as New green in Spring, autumn leaves in autumn, and Icicles in winter. ■■■Specialty products of Hayakawa Town Hayakawa Town's proud Specialty Products, Hakuho miso, Fresh sweet potato konnyaku, and Dried potato stalks, are exquisite gourmets that can only be tasted here. In addition, "Oboko dolls" that have been handed down in this area since ancient tradition are recommended for tourism in Hayakawa Town and are also designated as prefectural designated folk crafts. ■■■Popular events and festivals in Hayakawa Town ・Akaishi Mountains Hayakawa Edible Wild Greens Festival Every year in May, the event is held at the Hayakawa Town People's Sports Square, and the main stage features Drum performances and song shows. Bake sale shops and food stalls are lined up at the venue, and Mikoshi (portable shrine) passing is also held. ・Okuyamanashi Hayakawa Autumn Leaves and Food Festival It is held every year in October at the Hayakawa Town People's Sports Square surrounded by autumn leaves, and Hayakawa Town's Specialty Products and seasonal foods are gathered. ■■■Sightseeing in Hayakawa Town "Japan's least populated town" is packed with rich nature, deep history, Specialty products, events and charm. There are different ways to enjoy your trip in Hayakawa Town, such as "heal your fatigue in the Hot spring", "Experience the Nature of Hayakawa Town at the campsite", and "Enjoy the local gourmet food of Hayakawa Town". Best regards so that your trip to Hayakawa Town in Yamanashi Prefecture will be an unforgettable memory for everyone, and we will send out recommended information about Hayakawa Town!

This is the Shinshu Chowa Town Tourism Association. Nice to meet you all! Chowa Town, Nagano Prefecture is a town rich in nature and history in the center of Nagano Prefecture. ◇History of Chowa Town, Nagano Prefecture In Chowa Town, where the Nakasendo Highway, which connected Edo and Kyoto, passed during the Edo period, there are two Shukuba-juku, Nagakubo-juku and Wada-juku, and it is a tourist spot that still retains the remnants of that time. ・Nakasendo No.28 Wada-juku The Shukuba-juku is located at the foot of Mt. of the difficult "Wada Pass", which is about 800 meters Elevation the Nakasendo, and many travelers I nourished my energy here. The nationally designated historic sites "Wada-juku Main Camp", "Rekishi no Michi Shiryokan Kawachiya", and "Daikokuya" are lined up and you can enjoy the atmosphere of the Edo period. ・Nakasendo No.27 Nagakubo-juku In the Edo period, there were as many as 43 Shukuya (inns), the second largest of the 26 Shukuba-juku inns in Shinano. In addition, Hoshidan Pass in Chowa Town, Nagano Prefecture, has been a production area of Obsidian stone since Long time ago, and many people have lived there. Obsidian, which is sharp and easy to process, was used as a material for Stoneware for 30,000 years. ◇Introduction of sightseeing spots in Chowa Town, Nagano Prefecture◇ ・Utsukushigahara Highlands It is a Lava plateau that spreads around a Oogashira of 2,034 meters Elevation, and offers spectacular views of mountains such as Mt. Fuji, Yatsugatake, Gari and the Northern Alps. You can also see the idyllic scene of cows grazing on the Utsukushigahara Highlands. The evacuation tower "Tower of Beauty", which is installed in the center of the plateau to protect climbers by ringing a bell when fog occurs, is also a symbol of the Utsukushigahara Highlands. ・Roadside Station Marumero Station Nagato Fresh local vegetables and Specialty products are also a great spot to buy Souvenirs. In June 2020, we opened Markets Kokuyo, a direct sales shop with an exterior where you can feel the atmosphere of the Edo period. ・Kokuyo Water In the Toll road toll station of the Wada Pass, the not far from Famous Water Plaza is spring with water filtered by Obsidian bedrock. It has been selected as a "One of the 37 best waters in Shinshu". ・Nagato Hot Spring Yasuragi no Yu It is a facility where you can enjoy a day-trip hot spring adjacent to the Roadside Station "Marmelo no Eki Nagato", and the spring quality is sodium sulfate Hot spring, which is one of the "three most beautiful spring qualities in Japan". There is also an open-air bath and a Minamoto hot spring "Hagama bath". ・ Wada-juku Hot spring Fureai no Yu A day-trip Hot spring facility located in a corner of the vast sports park "Yuyu Park". The quality of the spring quality is "calcium sodium sulfate Hot spring. You can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons from the open-air bath. ・Obsidian Experience Museum You can learn the results of excavations in an easy-to-understand manner from actual Stoneware, anime, models, etc. ・Hoshikusokan You can learn about the state of Obsidian mining in the Jomon period, which was revealed by excavations, in an easy-to-understand manner through projection mapping, which directly projects onto the strata. * Those who enter the museum need to register at the Obsidian Experience Museum. ・Blanche Takayama Ski Resort Slope for skiers only, boasting 80% clear skies. There are various mountain trails and it is a ski resort that parents and children can enjoy. *The 2023-2024 season ended on March 31. ◇Event Information of Chowa Town, Nagano Prefecture◇ ・Otaya Festival It is an annual festival held every year in January at Furumachi Toyoke Grand Shrine. Five festival float decorations are dedicated in the town. ・Wada-juku Shukuba Festival It is an event that reproduction the history and culture of Wada-juku during the Lunar Bon Festival period, and is visited by many tourists. At night, lanterns illuminate the Shukuba town. ◇Specialty products and specialties of Chowa Town, Nagano Prefecture Chowa Town's Specialty Products include Dattan-soba noodles and fried rainbow trout. Specialty products nurtured by the rich nature of Chowa Town delight many tourists with their fresh taste. ◇Enjoy your trip to Chowa Town, Nagano Prefecture Chowa Town is a cityscape where you can enjoy the rich nature and atmosphere of the Edo period. We will send out recommended information so that you can enjoy your trip to Chowa Town in Nagano Prefecture, so please follow us. We sincerely look forward to your visit.

Commemorating the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the city The 41st Urayasu City fireworks festival ? A fiery strong fireworks. Urayasu's fireworks everyone was shouting "Kagiya!" and Tamaya and Kagiya were worried and looked it up. It seems to be the name of a fireworks master who was active in the Edo period ... Kagiya seems to be a popular fireworks master who has grown to become a purveyor of the Edo shogunate! I learned about "Tamaya" and "Kagiya" for the first time from the Edo period!

The Oi Shrine Grand Festival is also called the "Obi Festival" and is a festival in which the god of Oi Shrine returns to the old shrine site (inn) once every three years. Today, for three days including the second Sunday in October, a gorgeous festival is held in the town of Shimada where dainu, daimyo processions, Kashima odori, street stall dances from 1st Avenue to 5th Avenue, and ground dances are held. Especially on the last day, all of them form a large procession together with the mikoshi procession, and they slowly parade for a whole day for a round trip of about 4 km from Oi Shrine to the inn. Due to the appearance and swing of the dainu at this time, as well as the unique form of Kashima Odori, the obi festival has come to be counted as one of the three strange festival in Japan. In addition, since the Edo period, first-class entertainers from Edo have been invited to choreographed dances in each town, Nagauta, and shamisen, and Nagauta in particular is also called "Nagauta Festival" because the iemoto of each school competed for throat.

No season is offseason for Japan. In summer there are so many thing to see and do here. Last weekend I enjoyed thousand light festival at Kawagoe where the warehouse area was looked absolutely gorgeous for the lights and other stalls and stage activities. Everyone was enjoying and most of the local people wear traditional cloths too. It was truly a delightful experienced.

This time I want to recommend Kawagoe. This small town of kawagoe is known as condo (little edo) because till now this place offers the old days feeling. Its kind of time traveling. A great experience indeed. Yesterday I went once again because I was hoping to see another interesting part of this place and I was right. It looks like a place coming out of fairytale.

Continuing from yesterday, at "Ouchi-juku" in Minamiaizu, Fukushima Prefecture. It was a historical place that made you feel as if you had traveled back in time.

"Ouchi-juku" flourished as an important road post town connecting Aizuwakamatsu City and Nikko Ima City in the Edo period. Even today, the remnants of the Edo period remain as they are. It is said that it is actually living as a store and residence in order to take over this landscape. The photo was taken from a small hill. The sight of more than 30 private houses with thatched roofs lined up was a masterpiece.

Just some more photos to wrap up our trip to Nikko. I took a bunch of photos of different monuments and buildings that seemed important or had lavish decorations. I can't make out what the writing on the monument says but I can at least make out the kanji for heart (心). I also liked the golden palanquins inside the the building in the forth photo, although I'm not sure if they were used at some point or are simply for decoration. The other photos are from Futarasan Chugushi Shrine (二荒山中宮祠神社) located in front of Lake Chuzenji. Unfortunately we didn't have time to go inside the shrine but I was at least able to take some nice photos of the torii gate. Apparently it has a kagura hall as well and the entrance to Mt. Nantai is located inside the shrine as well. And finally, just an assortment of food that I haven't posted yet. All of it tasted great. It was definitely a trip I'm never going to forget!

Some more photos from our trip to Nikko. There were so many awesome monuments, landmarks, and buildings that it'd be impossible to fit it all into one post. I was so glad that I had my mobile battery with me because I was taking so many photos that I was just burning through my battery lol. I really liked how the incense burner looked and I tried looking up how old it was but I wasn't able to find anything about it, only the one in front of Tokugawa Ieyasu's burial site. I would have liked to use the chozuya as well, but unfortunately it was closed off due to covid. I also liked seeing the sake barrels as well as they always brighten up shrines. The "Ippon Toro" lantern was interesting as well. I'd never heard of Empress Tofukumon'in before either, so it gave me some interesting things to read about Japan's Edo Period. Apparently she helped rebuild prominent temple in Kyoto and collected art and pottery from famous artisans of the time and even those of the past. Some buildings I'd have to look at a map to know their names but there was definitely no shortage of decorations. Unfortunately we weren't able to take photos inside some of the main buildings, but a few of them had ceiling paintings done by famous painters. Many of them were birds, and I'm not an expert, but I think they were mostly cranes and they were all really beautiful.

Continuing on from yesterday's post... On the second and final day of our trip we woke up and ate a light breakfast followed by some udon and soba at a nice little restaurant on the way to the Kirifuri Highlands (霧降高原). We were originally planning on hiking up to the observation deck around 880 meters up the mountain, but it proved to be a little farther than we thought it would be an had to stop at around 650 meters as there was a massive staircase to reach the observation deck and not everyone in the group was up for the challenge lol. Not having the proper gear didn't help much either. Most people had on snow shoes and they could easily trek through the snow but wearing just boots or tennis shoes we were a bit under-equipped and decided it'd be better not to overdo it. We got to see some really amazing views and talk to an 85-year-old man who told us what gear we should buy if we're planning on hiking in the snow, about how the dam located on the mountains across from us rises and falls during the day/night, and how this was his ~60th time climbing the mountain but the woman he came with has done it more than 300 times. She had to turn back early that day, but those are some impressive numbers! After enjoying the outdoors we headed over to Nikko Edomura/Edo Wonderland (日光江戸村) and had a blast exploring the theme park. We arrived at about 2pm so we got a nice discount on our all-day passes. Walking around we got to see all of the different buildings that gave the theme park its Edo-Period-feel. We also got to see the oiran procession (花魁道中) which was really awesome as well. It seemed like they tried to make it as accurate as possible too. The way the courtesan walked was in the traditional figure eight style which, from what I've read, is not easily done, so I assume that this is a sort of special type of profession as she was doing it (to my untrained eye) perfectly. One funny thing was that the girls in red in front of the courtesan had to slouch somewhat because they were too tall and the theme park obviously can't employ children to play the role like they would have traditionally. We also got some temporary "tattoos." They got some cute Nyan-mage tattoos and I got a Shinsengumi tattoo lol. After that we watched a really awesome performance inside of the ninja theater, but we weren't allowed to film or take photos so I don't have anything to post unfortunately. It was really cool seeing the ninja actors jumping off of rooves and fighting though. On top of that we also tried out the ninja maze where I was unfortunately the last one to make it out as I got unlucky and hit a dead end at the last part of the maze. This was a really fun experience as there were a lot of hidden and revolving doors that you had to find to escape the maze. We also did the shuriken experience and I managed to get 3/5 but I gave one of my shuriken to my girlfriend in the hopes that she would stick one in the target but unfortunately she wasn't able to lol. I guess I was technically 3/4 because of that. Overall the whole trip was a blast and we got to make some awesome memories out in Tochigi. I definitely recommend it as a travel destination!

I'd never heard about Nikko Edomura until I read this article. It's really cool that Japan has a theme park like this. I've studied a bit of Japanese history but it didn't cover courtesans very much, so the only knowledge I have about oiran basically comes from the t.v. show Jin (仁) lol. I never would have guessed that it would take at least three years to be able to even walk properly, that sounds harder than learning the footwork from when I was in a kendo club. Watching the video though, trying to walk in that pattern while wearing those giant clogs looks pretty difficult. I'm curious to know if the courtesan in the video was previously a courtesan or has trained for a long time to be able to perform the role. If anyone knows, be sure to tell me! The place looks really fun to go for a date though, so maybe I'll check it out if I get the chance to go to Tochigi. Probably next summer or spring because it's getting way too cold for me lol!