Introducing the Open-Air Capybara Bath of the Izu Shaboten Zoo This video, titled "Capybara with mandarin orange on head in the open-air bath☆みかんを頭にのせるカピバラ 伊豆シャボテン動物公園【元祖カピバラの露天風呂】," was released by "HIRO@sea." The video shows capybaras enjoying a relaxing soak in an open-air bath. The capybaras can be found at the Izu Shaboten Zoo, in Futo, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture in Japan's Tokai Region. Just like humans, the capybara enjoy a warm bath. The water is filled with yuzu, a type of citrus fruit. You can see the capybara with a yuzu on its head at 1:46 in the video! In this article, we'll introduce the Izu Shaboten Zoo and its open-air capybara bath. The Izu Shaboten Zoo Photo：Izu Shaboten Zoo The Izu Shaboten Zoo is a theme park in Futo, Ito City, Shizuoka. The Zoo is known for animals and cacti. The zoo was opened around 60 years ago, in October of 1959. The 200,000-square-meter park, which opened around 60 years ago in October 1959, has a greenhouse with cacti and succulents from all over the world. There's also kangaroos, capybaras, anteaters, squirrel monkeys, red pandas, chimpanzees, ponies, wild birds, the ever-popular motionless bobwhite stork, and a variety of other animals. The zoo is home to around 800 animals and birds, including flamingos, peacocks, and fennec foxes. The cacti are divided into five sections: the South American Pavilion, the African Pavilion, the Madagascar Pavilion, the Mexico Pavilion, and the Forest Cactus Pavilion. There are edible cacti available for tasting as well. In 2016, the official Japanese name of the zoo was changed from the former "Izu Shaboten Park" (伊豆シャボテン公園) to the current "Izu Shaboten Zoological Park" (伊豆シャボテン動物公園). A little to the east of Izu Shaboten Zoo, there's Izu Granpal Park, Izu Kogen Tabi no Eki Granpal Port, New York Lamp Museum & Flower Garden, and the Izu Oceanic Park Diving Center as part of the Izu Shaboten Zoological Park Group. Izu Shaboten Animal Park also has life-size replicas of a sculpture of ancient American civilization, and the entire Izu Shaboten Zoological Park Group has a wide range of attractions, from animals and plants to artifacts, park golf, the "Ship-shaped 3D Maze KAiZOKU," "Zip Line 風KAZE," "Water Balloons," and more. There's also "Wan Wan Park," a dog run where you can enjoy taking your dog, and the "Izu Kogen Grand Illumination," a hands-on style illumination. Nearby, the official hotels "Izu Shaboten Village" and "Izu Shaboten Village GLAMPING" can be found. You can fully enjoy your Izu Shaboten experience with an overnight stay at either one of these locations. The Open Air Capybara Bath Photo：Open-air capybara bath Firstly, what exactly are capybaras? Capybaras are members of the caviidae family of rodents, native to South America. They can be found from Panama to the northeast of Argentina. They are large (106-134 centimeters in length), have a gentle nature and are known to be very friendly towards humans. They tend to be found in groups of 10 to 20. A group of capybaras can be seen soaking in the bath together from 0:07 in the video. The open-air capybara bath shown in the video has been a tradition of the Izu Shaboten Zoo since 1982. At that time, the zookeepers were washing the exhibit with warm water when the capybaras began to soak in the puddles. Thereafter, the zookeepers came up with the idea of preparing warm baths for the capybaras. Now, the capybara bath has become a winter tradition. Nowadays, many zoos in Japan have introduced their own capybara baths, but the originator is none other than the Izu Shaboten Zoo. The zoo even has a capybara mascot known as "Capyba." Summary of the Izu Shaboten Zoo Source :【Official Website】Izu Shaboten Zoo Due to the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, to uphold social distancing rules, capybara and red panda plush toys are placed between seats at the zoo as well as the restaurant "Forest Animal Restaurant GIBBONTEI." The adorable image of the plush toys seated in the restaurant has generated buzz online, and has even been shown on the news. The plush toy and calendar can be purchased at the gift shop within the zoo. Many goods are also available on the official online shop "IZU SHABOTEN HONPO," so do take a look! Take a moment to relax and check out this heartwarming video. ◆Izu Shaboten Zoo Facilities Overview◆ 【Address】1317-13 Tomido, Itou City, Shizuoka Prefecture 【Access】From JR Atami Station, get off at JR Ito Station on the Ito Line, and take the Tokai Bus for Shaboten Zoo (~35 minutes). 【Admission Fee】Adults: 2,400 yen Elementary School Students: 1,200 yen Children (over the age of 4): 400 yen Discounts for groups, seniors, and persons with disabilities, as well as coupon deals, are also available. 【Hours】9:00-17:00 【Closures】None 【Avg. Time Spent Here】2+ Hours 【Parking】400 regular spaces, 500 yen｜Buses: 18 spaces, 1,000 yen 【Official Website】Izu Shaboten Zoo https://izushaboten.com/lang/index.html 【Tripadvisor】Izu Shaboten Zoo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298123-d1196864-Reviews-Izu_Shaboten_Zoo-Ito_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Introducing Kobe Animal Kingdom, a Facility Where You Can Interact With Cute Animals up Close This video, titled "Kobe Animal Kingdom" (神戸どうぶつ王国), was uploaded by "Kobe Animal Kingdom" (神戸どうぶつ王国 Kobe Animal Kingdom). Kobe Animal Kingdom, located on Port Island, an artificial island in Kobe, Hyogo, in Japan's Kansai region, is a facility with a theme of "symbiosis between flowers, animals, and people." The 25,000-square-meter site is filled with 10,000 plants and flowers of around 1,000 different species, as well as 600 animals of approximately 110 different species. The biggest attraction of Kobe Animal Kingdom is that many of the animals in the park are free-range, so visitors can enjoy interacting with cute animals up close. There are also many shows, performances, and attractions that help visitors feel closer to the animals. The official video of Kobe Animal Kingdom, introduced here, is a short, two-minute video that introduces all the attractions of the facility. We hope you enjoy it! Meet Cute Animals at an Indoor Park Photo：Parakeets at Kobe Animal Kingdom Kobe Animal Kingdom is divided into two areas: the Inside Park and the Outside Park. The Inside Park, shown at 0:19 in the video, is an all-weather facility that allows visitors to walk around in the rain without getting wet. At "Contact Animals," visitors can interact with small animals, such as rabbits, dogs, cats, macaws, parrots, and more. There are also wild cats and sand cats on exhibit. At "Tropical Forest," animals living in the tropics spend their free time in their natural habitat. Here, visitors can interact with capybaras, tropical birds, sloths, etc. In addition, at "Wind Stadium," where bird shows are held, visitors can take pictures with owls. "Water Lilies" is a huge pool with approximately 100 species of water lilies in bloom and small tropical fish that can be fed. A Full-Fledged Zoo in an Indoor Park Photo：A shoebill at Kobe Animal Kingdom Kobe Animal Kingdom has a large indoor area with a full-fledged zoo inside the indoor park. Kobe Animal Kingdom is divided into the various regions found around the world, including Asian Forest, African Wetlands, Tropical Wetlands, Tropical Forest, and Rocky Valley, and is home to a wide variety of animals, including reptiles, hippopotamuses, wolves, bears, red pandas, manuls, ring-tailed lemurs, lesser anteaters, and Tam Tam, a pygmy hippopotamus that moved in in July 2020 from NIFREL in Suita, Osaka. There is also an ecological garden for the "shoebill," an unmoving pelican that lives in Africa. This opened in April 2021, and the facility currently trying to breed them for the first time in Japan. In addition, you can have lunch at a location popular on social media for its panorama of flowers hanging from the ceiling of the restaurant and cafe. AlpaCafé also sells original animal-themed food, such as Shoebill Coffee. There is also a souvenir store, selling many goods featuring the park's animals. These goods can also be purchased at the official online store. Experience Kobe Animal Kingdom's Outside Park Photo：A red kangaroo at Kobe Animal Kingdom Kobe Animal Kingdom also has a great outside park. The Outside Park, which can be seen from 1:35, is an open area where visitors can see kangaroos, alpacas, and giant tortoises. You can also ride camels and horses, and dog shows are held daily. At Aqua Valley, visitors can meet cute penguins and seals. The admission fee to Kobe Animal Kingdom is 1,800 yen for adults (junior high school students and older). You can get a discount on the admission fee by purchasing advance tickets or by using the hotel's accommodation package plan. Kobe Animal Kingdom is easily accessible from Kobe Airport and Sannomiya Station. There is also a large parking lot, so you can also go by car. ※On weekends and holidays, the park can get crowded, so it's best to use public transportation. Interact With Cute Animals! Summary of Kobe Animal Kingdom Kobe Animal Kingdom is a place where flowers, animals, and people come into contact with each other. Kobe Animal Kingdom is constantly changing, with new areas popping up constantly. The park is currently implementing initiatives for "biodiversity conservation" and "environmental conservation" so that the animals can live comfortably. They also conduct crowd-funding to further develop their efforts. If you're looking to experience the animals of the world, consider checking out Kobe Animal Kingdom! ◆Kobe Animal Kingdom Facility Information◆ 【Address】7 Chome-1-9 Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047 【Telephone】+81 078-302-8899 【Hours】Please inquire directly as hours can vary by season. 【Closures】Closed every Thursday (※Excluding national holidays) 【Admission Fee】 Adults (junior high and older): ¥1,800 Elementary Schoolers: 1,000 Children (ages 4 & 5): ¥300 Seniors (65 and older): ¥1,300 【Official Website】Kobe Animal Kingdom https://en.kobe-oukoku.com/ 【Trip Advisor】Kobe Animal Kingdom https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298562-d1493150-Reviews-Kobe_Animal_Kingdom-Kobe_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Video Introduction This video, titled "Cape Kiritappu, Hokkaido｜Wild Sea Otters Floating in the Sea｜2020" (北海道霧多布岬 ぷかぷか浮かぶ 野生のラッコ 2020), was uploaded by "Shinji kawamura." The video captures endangered sea otters playfully swimming and relaxing at Cape Kiritappu, a place where you can encounter otters, foxes, and other wildlife of Japan. It's a great place for taking Instagram photos as well, so be sure to check it out. Don't forget to follow along with the video! Sea Otters – An Endangered Species on the Decline in Japan Photo：A raft of sea otters The main habitat of wild sea otters is the area from the California coast through Alaska and the Aleutian Islands to the coast of the Kamchatka Peninsula. Overfishing has led to a decline in the wild population, and it's estimated that more than 3,000 sea otters perished when an oil tanker ran aground in Alaska. Although the number of sea otters in the wild temporarily declined to less than 2,000, active conservation efforts have helped the population recover to more than 100,000. On the other hand, the number of sea otters kept in aquariums in Japan has continued to decline from 122 in 1994, and by 2021 there will be only 4 in Japan. Sea otters, which are designated as an endangered species, are prohibited from being imported from outside of Japan. Currently, because of declining reproductive capabilities and aging populations, further breeding of sea otters kept in Japan becoming more and more difficult. Because of this, it's not unlikely that there will come a day when sea otters can no longer be seen in aquariums in Japan. Where to See Sea Otters in the Wild in Japan Photo：Cape Kiritappu, Hokkaido There was a time when wild sea otters were no longer seen in the waters around Japan due to overfishing, but since 1980, there has been a string of sightings along the eastern coast of Hokkaido. In recent years, wild sea otters have been seen in Japan mainly in three areas along the eastern coast of Hokkaido. One is Cape Kiritappu, which is introduced in the video, and the others are Cape Nosappu in Nemuro, which is located on the northeast side of the cape, and Moyururi Island, an uninhabited island off the Kombumori fishing port between Cape Kiritappu and Cape Nosappu. Breeding has been confirmed on both Cape Kiritappu and Moyururi Island. Of these three locations, the highest probability of observing wild sea otters from land is at Cape Kiritappu. The sight of wild sea otters, both parents and offspring, floating in the sea, is both funny and cute. [Video] 0:19 - Wild Sea Otters Swimming With Their Offspring in Their Arms Sea Otters at Cape Kiritappu - The Best Times and Where to See Them Photo：An otter Wild sea otters can be seen throughout the year around Cape Kiritappu. However, your chances are low during bad weather, such as fog or high waves. It's said that the chance of seeing sea otters on a clear day is only a 1 in 3 chance, so weather is also an important factor. The best place to see them is where the waves are most calm. The probability of seeing them is higher on the north side of the cape and around reefs. If you're lucky, you can see wild sea otters up close, but we recommend bringing a telescope or binoculars in order to clearly see their appearance, behavior, and facial expressions. You can check out the sea otters napping and eating in the video. [Video] 1:50 - Sea Otters Relaxing and Taking Naps [Video] 4:28 - Sea Otters Eating Shellfish off Their Stomachs Summary of Otters at Cape Kiritappu The number of sea otters kept in aquariums has drastically decreased due to difficulties in breeding in Japan. Wild sea otters, on the other hand, a species that once vanished due to overhunting, can now be seen in the waters around Japan. The eastern coast of Hokkaido, where sightings are particularly common, is now quite popular. Cape Kiritappu is a popular spot to see rare wild sea otters from land. If you happen to see them during a visit to the area, consider yourself lucky! 【TripAdvisor】Cape Kiritappu https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1120924-d1553698-Reviews-Kiritappu_Cape-Hamanaka_cho_Akkeshi_gun_Hokkaido.html

Adorable Capybaras Enjoying the Hot Springs! Capybaras are the largest members of the rodent family, and the video 「みんなで入浴　カピバラ温泉～桶風呂～始めました！　2017.12.5（埼玉県こども動物自然公園　公式/SaitamaChildrensZoo　official ）capybara onsen』, created by 「埼玉県こども動物自然公園（SaitamaChildrensZoo）」compiles scenes of capybaras enjoying bathing in the hot springs. These scenes of six capybaras considerately entering the hot springs together will warm your heart. The video has also become popular, not only among the Japanese, but also with people from overseas. The Capybaras Introduced in the Video, and Why They’re in the Hot Springs Photo：Capybaras Capybaras are members of the rodent family, and can be found from Panama in South America, all the way to Northeast Argentina. With calm and gentle personalities, capybaras are also popular as pets, and are the largest members of the rodent family, growing up to 106 to 134 centimeters. Males weigh around 77 to 141 pounds, while females weigh around 81 to 145 kilograms. Being proficient swimmers, capybaras tend to escape to the water once they sense approaching danger. They can remain underwater for up to 5 minutes. Although the water is their shelter and haven, due to their warm natural habitat, capybaras are weak to the cold. As a countermeasure to combat cold winters, the “Capybara Hot Springs” was created. The Capybara Hot Springs and the Saitama Children's Zoo Source :YouTube screenshot The Saitama Children's Zoo holds a “Capybara Hot Springs” event every year. The event lasts from November through March, with the location being at the Capybara/Wallaby enclosure. Pools built to look like rock baths are filled with water warmed to a suitable temperature by the sun. Besides the unique springs such as the yuzu bath, a waterfall bath and tub bath are also prepared. The video begins with five capybaras heading towards the hot springs. Of the five, three enter the bath with floating yuzu, one makes for the smaller tub bath, and the last heads for the waterfall bath. Without any jostling or competition for space, the atmosphere is calm and peaceful. From 1:22 in the video, another capybara appears. The scene of this capybara unobtrusively lowering itself backside-first into the yuzu bath is extremely heartwarming. From 1:43 in the video, the capybara in the waterfall bath can be seen wiping its face, and from 1:53 is seen staring peacefully into space, contently settling into the water. The fact that these capybaras act just like little humans will bring a smile to your face. In the Saitama Children's Zoo, you can enjoy viewing the capybaras while warming your feet in the foot baths. Why not stop by and enjoy the relaxing hot springs together with the capybaras? Saitama Children's Zoo Photo：Saitama Children's Zoo Saitama Children's Zoo is a spacious park located in Saitama Prefecture, Higashi-Matsuyama City in Japan's Kanto region (関東地方・埼玉県東松山市, Kanto-chiho・Saitama-ken Higashi-matsuyama-shi). Besides the zoo, the park also boasts the "Children’s Castle" (こどもの城, Kodomo no jo) as well as a large playground (みんなの広場, Minna no hiroba) where children can run around and play. In the playground is the “Adventure Forest Athletics” area (冒険の森アスレチック, Bouken-no-mori asurechikku) as well as the “Shabu-shabu Pond” (じゃぶじゃぶ池, Shabu-shabu ike) with water activites. Here, children can enjoy playing and being active. In the animal area, pony-riding as well as animal-feeding activities are available. Also, from September of 2019, the “Small Animals Enclosure” (ecoハウチュー, eco hauchu) was opened. There, you can observe small animals such as hedgehogs. Where to Enjoy Japan's Capybara Hot Springs Photo：Capybara hot springs, Kobe Animal Kingdom Below is a list of some of the capybara hot spring areas throughout Japan. With so many facilities available, you're sure to be able to enjoy the capybara hot springs! Hokkaido ・Banya no Yu (番屋の湯) [Ishikari, Hokkaido] ・North Safari Sapporo (ノースサファリサッポロ) [Sapporo, Hokkaido] Tohoku/Kanto Regions ・Akita Omoriyama Zoo (秋田市大森山動物園) [Akita Prefecture] ・Nasu Animal Kingdom (那須どうぶつ王国) [Tochigi Prefecture] ・Kusatsu Tropical Wonderland (草津熱帯園) [Gunma Prefecture] ・Aloha Garden Tateyama (アロハガーデンたてやま) [Chiba Prefecture] ・Mother Farm (マザー牧場) [Chiba Prefecture] ・Yokosuka Soleil Hill (長井海の手公園ソレイユの丘) [Kanagawa Prefecture] Chubu Region ・Ishikawa Zoo (いしかわ動物園) [Ishikawa Prefecture] ・Asuwayama Amusement Park (足羽山公園遊園地) [Fukui Prefecture] ・Suzaka Zoo (須坂市動物園) [Nagano Prefecture] ・Izu Shaboten Zoo (伊豆シャボテン動物公園) [Shizuoka Prefecture] ・Toyohashi Zoo and Botanical Park (豊橋総合動植物公園　のんほいパーク) [Aichi Prefecture] Kansai/Chugoku Regions ・Kobe Animal Kingdom (神戸どうぶつ王国) [Hyogo Prefecture] ・Himeji Central Park (姫路セントラルパーク) [Hyogo Prefecture] ・Daisen Tom Sawyer Pasture (大山トム・ソーヤ牧場) [Tottori Prefecture] ・Ikeda Zoo (池田動物園) [Okayama Prefecture] Shikoku/Kyushu Region ・New Reoma World (レオマリゾート) [Kagawa Prefecture] ・Tobe Zoo (愛媛県立とべ動物園) [Ehime Prefecture] ・Nagasaki Bio Park (長崎バイオパーク) [Nagasaki Prefecture] ・Aso Farm Land (阿蘇ファームランド) [Kumamoto Prefecture] ・Hirakawa Zoo (平川動物公園) [Kagoshima Prefecture] Summary of the Capybara Hot Springs Video The video introduced in this article shows capybaras enjoying a nice soak in the hot springs of the Saitama Children's Zoo. Definitely take a second to relax by watching this video of capybaras relaxing in the hot springs. 【Tripadvisor】Saitama Children's Zoo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021372-d1425140-Reviews-Saitama_Children_Zoo-Higashimatsuyama_Saitama_Prefecture_Kanto.html

A Look at the Japanese Badger This video, titled "[Japan's Wildlife] the Ecology of Badgers｜A Cute Animal That Looks Like a Bear but Isn't (Japanese Badger)" (【日本の動物】アナグマの生態〜クマのようで熊ではない可愛い動物〜(Japanese badger)), introduces the Japanese badger. Japanese badgers look like bears, but as you'll see in the video, they are actually quite different. Let's take a look at Japan's native badger species! About the Japanese Badger Photo：Japanese badgers Japanese badgers belong to the family Mustelidae and order Carnivora. The scientific name of the Japanese badger is "Meles anakuma." The Japanese badger is 40 to 60 centimeters in length and weighs about 12 kilograms. They're light brown in color, similar to that of bears. A characteristic of the Japanese badger is their sharp claws. Japanese badgers are nocturnal and omnivorous animals and live in units called "clans." When the temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius, they enter hibernation. They inhabit forests in Honshu (本州), Shikoku (四国), and Kyushu (九州). The average lifespan for a wild Japanese badger is 10 years. In the video you can see two cute Japanese badgers playing, running around, and taking naps. Japanese Badgers - Viewed as Pests Photo：A badger walking on snow Japanese badgers have warm personalities and do not scare easily. Unfortunately, because they often feed on the crops of farmers, they are seen as pests. Some restaurants in Fukuoka, Kagoshima, and Kyoto actually serve badger meat as game dishes. The Diverse Wildlife Found in Japan Photo：Japanese weasel There are other animals similar to the Japanese badger, such as the raccoon dog (tanuki), masked palm civet, raccoon, and the Japanese weasel. There's a Japanese proverb that goes "Onaji ana no Mujina" (同じ穴の狢), which, translated to English, goes "Badgers of the same hole." It basically expresses that while seemingly unrelated, these animals are of the same type. It's similar to "birds of a feather" or "villains of the same stripe." Breeding Japanese Badgers? Source :YouTube screenshot Japanese badgers are quite friendly. Even when people come close to it, it sometimes moves closer to them, albeit with their tail between their legs like a cat. However, if they are provoked, they may threaten other animals with fierce warning calls. They are not prohibited from being kept as pets, but it's a bit difficult to actually keep them, as you won't be able to bring them to an ordinary vet if something happens. Summary of Japanese Badgers In this article we gave a quick overview of the Japanese badger. Recently, Japanese badgers have been featured on news broadcasts as they've been seen coming down to towns for food, due to increasing deforestation. We'll have to do our part to preserve the forests so that humans and animals can coexist.

A Look at the Wild Marten! This video, titled "A Close up of a Wild Marten" shows rare footage of a wild marten chowing down. Marten are small animals similar to stoats, ferrets, and weasels. The animal is often treated as a supernatural species in many parts of Japan. There are legends and folktales about the marten that say it has the ability to shapeshift into a raccoon or a fox, and that the misfortunes that occur in villages are due to the work of the marten. In this article, we'll explore the ecology and characteristics of the marten! The Marten - Types and Habitat Photo：Marten The marten is a carnivorous animal that constitutes the genus Martes in the family Mustelidae. Marten are generally 44-55 cm long with tails 17-23 cm long, and they weigh around 1 kilogram. Most wild marten in Japan are found on Honshu (Japan's main island), but they are also widely distributed in Shikoku and Kyushu. In Tsushima, Kyushu region Nagasaki prefecture, there is an endemic subspecies called the Tsushima marten. The Japanese sable of Hokkaido is said to be a different species than the marten. There are other types of marten around the world, such as the yellow-throated marten, American marten, Japanese sable, and European pine marten. The Characteristics and Ecology of the Japanese Marten Source :YouTube screenshot In the wild, marten live and breed alone, using crevices in rocks and tree hollows as their burrows. Their high pitched "squeaking" is one of their distinctive characteristics. Wild marten are omnivores, feeding on insects, birds, fruits and many other things. They sometimes appear in towns and destroy fields, so they are often treated as vermin. Their fur is reddish brown or dark brown in color, and they have different colored summer and winter coats. Some marten are even known for their incredibly fine fur. The wild marten shown in the video is seen constantly checking its surroundings as it chows down on some cat food. Occasionally it stands up to check its surroundings as well. This can be seen at 0:46 in the video. If you notice, the marten is also missing his front left leg, which may be the reason it's is relying on cat food, as catching its prey may be more difficult. Keeping Marten as Pets Photo：Marten After seeing this cute critter munching on some cat food, you might even think you want to raise one yourself. The breeding of wild marten is not prohibited in Japan, and they can actually be caught and bred with permission. However, due to their aggressive and violent nature, there are few cases of keeping them outside of specialized facilities such as zoos. That being said, it's probably difficult to care for one. Summary of the Japanese Marten In this article, we introduced the ecology of the wild marten. As you can see in the video, you might encounter a wild marten in your backyard in Japan, but they are quite difficult to care for. If you want to see some cute marten up close, we recommend visiting a zoo or animal shelter!

An Introduction to Northern Pika! This is a video on the ecology of Northern Pika, an endangered species in Hokkaido. The video, titled "Keep it up! Northern Pika - He can do his best. Pika" (頑張れ！エゾナキウサギ　He can do his best. Pika), was released by "Shinji Kawamura." The Northern Pika, is a small mammal of the ochotonidae family, and its identifying characteristic is its high pitched cry. In Japan, they only live in high lands like Mt. Daisetsu, Mt. Yubari, and Mt. Hidaka in Hokkaido. Their distinct high pitched cry can be seen in the video from 1:09. The Northern Pika is said to have arrived in Japan from the Siberian continent during the ice age. In this video, you can see the lives of cute, wild Northern Pika. Please enjoy the video showing the ecology of Northern Pika. What is the Northern Pika? Photo：Northern Pika The Northern Pika is also called the "God of Rocky Lands" due to its habit of running around the rocky land of their natural habitat. Hokkaido’s aboriginal Ainu people used to call the Northern Pika "Cicit Cu Kamuy" (チチッ・チュ・カムイ, roughly "The Cheeping God") in Ainu language. The mouse-like Northern Pika is very small, weighing only about 60-150 grams, with a length of 10-20 cm, and a lifespan of about 4-5 years, which is shorter than most pika. They are full of curiosity but very timid, so they are very rarely seen in public. Their natural habitat is the cold wind caves of the Daisetsuzan mountains located high above sea level that don't freeze during the winter. In Japan, these critters are also known to only inhabit Hokkaido. Their breeding period is once a year from spring to summer, and they give birth to 1 to 5 kittens at a time. How Northern Pika Survive Winter The Northern Pika is entirely vegetarian, feeding on every plant in the mountains and is sometimes called "the pacifist of the mountains." In the video from 0:42, there is a scene of an Northern Pika with leaves in its mouth. Northern Pika do not hibernate so they must make winter preparations before the snow piles up. This involves stocking their houses with food. They have the intelligence to dry plants such as leaves, turning it into a dry-grass-preserved food which allows them to survive up to 6 months of harsh winter. They store about a bucketful of food in each of the several locations in their territory. You can see this in the video from 1:49. Where Can I See Northern Pika? Photo：Beautiful Autumn Leaves at Daisetsuzan Northern Pika live in only limited parts of Hokkaido, so the possibility of encountering them is very low. If you do mountain climbing or participate in nature tours and go to photo points, you may have a chance to see them. Northern Pika only live in the wild, and it is said that they cannot be raised in zoos and laboratories. It is also impossible to keep them as pets. If you are attracted to the cute Northern Pika, we recommend that you buy a plush toy or photo book as a souvenir of your trip to Hokkaido. Summary of the Northern Pika In the introductory video, you can see scenes of Northern Pika running around busily searching for food. There's something soothing about looking at this little critter squeaking about. These animals are hard to find in the wild, so be sure to take the time to check out the videos and enjoy their cuteness!

The Bonin Flying Fox! This video, titled "Bonin Flying Fox" (オガサワラオオコウモリ), is an informational video that contains footage of the Bonin flying fox. It was posted by "Chichijima Polaris." The Bonin flying fox is an endangered species of bats whose only habitat is the Ogasawara Islands in Tokyo Prefecture. The video contains footage of the Bonin flying fox eating pandan fruit and moving around in the trees. From 0:41 in the video, you can hear the screeching cry of the Bonin flying fox. A Closer Look at the Bonin Flying Fox Photo：Sleeping Bonin fox The Bonin flying fox is a mammal belonging to the Pteropus genus, Pteropadidae family, Chiroptera order and Mammalia class. Its habitats are said to be limited to Chichijima Island (父島, Chichijima), Hahajima Island (母島, Hahajima), North Iwo Jima (北硫黄島, Kitaioto) and South Iwo Jima (南硫黄島, Minamioto). The Bonin flying fox is about 20-25 cm long with forearms that are about 13-15 cm long. It is a nocturnal herbivore, and is seen as a pest because it feeds on the citrus fruits and other such things on the island. However, the reason for this is actually a lack of food; it’s estimated that only about 100 of them currently exist. They were designated as a protected species in 1969 and began to be protected as a Domestically Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna in 2009. Where to Find a Bonin Flying Fox Photo：Bat The Bonin flying fox introduced in the video is very cute (granted it's a bat). On the Ogasawara Islands, there is a night tour where you can gaze at star-filled skies, something you can only find on a remote island! On this night tour, you can observe Bonin flying foxes as well as glow in the dark mushrooms and other natural scenery. The Bonin flying fox cannot be kept as a pet, as it is an endangered species, but you can keep bats as a pet depending on the species. If you're interested in bat-keeping and looking for a new friend, be sure to stop by a pet shop to gather information on them. Summary of the Bonin Flying Foxe Source :YouTube screenshot In this short, 2-minute video, there's plenty of footage of the cute Bonin flying fox. Be sure to watch the video to check out the cute little critter! The Bonin flying fox was previously put on a special stamp as part of a nature conservation series and is popular among stamp collectors. If you were captivated by the cuteness of the Bonin flying fox, keep your eyes peeled for these stamps or other bat-themed products!

Japan's Flying Squirrels This introductory video, titled "3 Flying Squirrels" (匹のモモンガ), was created by Shinji Kawamura. It captures footage of three flying squirrels. The Ezo momonga (Ezo flying squirrel), native to Hokkaido, Japan (known in Japanese as "Ezo Momonga," scientific name: Pteromys volans orii) are small mammals who are members of the order Rodentia, family Sciuridae, and subfamily Sciurinae and belong to the tribe Pteromyini. The characteristic feature of the flying squirrel is its gliding membrane which allows it to glide distances of 20 to 50 meters. They are nocturnal animals who are very active at night. They tend to live in small groups, and as you can see in this video, these three flying squirrels live in the same tree burrow. They reach about 15cm in length, small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. They are omnivorous animals, feeding on mainly tree leaf buds, flowers, leaves, bark and seeds. At 0:49 in the video, you can see how they grasp the twigs carefully in their tiny hands and nibble away at the buds. The sight of them grasping the branches with their nimble fingers is adorable! See for yourself! Differences Between the Wild Ezo Momonga and Popular Pet Sugar Glider Photo：Ezo flying squirrel Flying squirrels and Sugar Gliders are similar in appearance but they differ in their scientific classification. Flying Squirrels are members of the Rodentia order, and Sciuridae family, whereas Sugar Gliders are members of the Marsupialia order, and Petauridae family. In other words, flying squirrels are rodents similar to squirrels whereas sugar gliders are marsupials, similar to kangaroos and other animals with a pouch used to carry their young. The sugar gliders you find in most pet stores are friendly and used to being around humans, making them easier to care for than flying squirrels. The cost of buying a sugar glider varies depending on the color of its coat, although a typical brown sugar glider usually costs around 20,000 yen. The average life expectancy of a sugar glider is 5 to 7 years and they feed mostly on fruits, nuts and berries. They communicate through various calls; however, they are relatively quiet animals and easy to look after making them popular as pets in recent years. Differences Between Wild Flying Squirrels and the Japanese Giant Flying Squirrel Photo：Japanese giant flying squirrel Flying squirrels and the Japanese Giant flying squirrel are both members of the Rodentia order, and Sciurinae subfamily and belong to the Pteromyini tribe; however, the Japanese Giant flying squirrel also belongs to the Petaurista genus. In the past they were thought to be of the same species. The Japanese Giant flying squirrel has a larger body than a flying squirrel, roughly double the size. Thanks to its size, the Japanese Giant flying squirrel can also glide significantly further, up to a distance of 100 meters. The Flying Squirrels Native to Japan and the Southern Flying Squirrel The wild flying squirrels of Japan are under threat from the Southern flying squirrel. There is concern over the cross-breeding of Southern flying squirrels and wild Japanese flying squirrels. Southern flying squirrels are an invasive species and the importation of such species is prohibited in order to prevent any damage to the ecosystem of the Japanese flying squirrels. Summary of Japan's Flying Squirrels Source :YouTube screenshot How did you find the video? We hope it helps you understand the difference between the Ezo Momonga and other small, similar-looking mammals. This video gives you a great view of the white, fluffy-coated Ezo Momonga as it plays in the tree tops. I think the footage at 1:06 of them slipping into their tiny tree burrow will bring a smile to your face! Enjoy taking a close look at the wonderful Ezo Momonga, an animal that, because of its small size, is hard to catch a glimpse of in nature!

The Japanese Dormouse This video, titled "Chino Legacy - A Chino Legacy to Leave to the Future - #16 'Japanese Dormouse'" (茅野レガシー～未来に残したい茅野遺産～#16「ヤマネ」), introduces the cute Japanese dormouse, an endemic species of Japan designated a nationally protected species. The Japanese dormouse is a rodent found in Yatsugatake, which straddle Yamanashi and Nagano prefectures, as well as in low mountains and subalpine areas throughout Japan. During hibernation, the Japanese dormouse crawls into private warehouses and cottages to curl up and take shelter. so there is a possibility of encountering them unexpectedly. About the Japanese Dormouse Source :YouTube screenshot The Japanese dormouse is a small mammal that belongs to the order Rodentia along with squirrels and other rodents, and is of the family Gliridae, and Glirinae genus. As you can see from 0:10 in the video, it has a cute appearance with its round eyes and soft fur. Because it's designated as a nationally protected species, it is forbidden to catch them or keep them as pets. They are 6 to 8 centimeters long, with black vertical stripes along their backs and a bushy tail. They are omnivorous, feeding on insects and fruits. They are often found running around the forest in preparation for winter. As you can see from 1:19 in the video, they nest in tree trunks and cracks in rocks and can race up trees using their sharp claws. It is a very agile animal that can hang on thin branches and jump from branch to branch. They are nocturnal creatures that live in trees, so you won’t encounter them often; however, during winter, you may see them curled up on the ground hibernating. They are also called "Ball Mice" or "Ice Mice" based on their curled up appearance. A hibernating Japanese dormouse sleeps so peacefully that even if you rolled them around, they would not wake up. You can see a curled-up Japanese dormouse hibernating at 2:07 in the video. In spring, they return to their natural habitat in the mountains. The Japanese Dormouse - A "Living Fossil" Photo：Excavating fossils Fossils of Japanese dormice have been excavated from the strata of Europe and Japan from 50 million and 20 million years ago, respectively. In other words, it is believed that the Japanese dormouse has existed on Earth since about 50 million years ago, after the extinction of the dinosaurs. This would have been during the Cenozoic Era, a time when ammonites and marine reptiles became extinct, and mammals and birds prospered. This of course means that they existed long before humans came to be. Because the Japanese dormouse has not changed in ecology or form since these ancient times, it is referred to as a living fossil. After the advent of mankind, the Japanese dormouse was recorded as a delicacy eaten by noblemen in Roman times. They would put Japanese dormice in vases and fatten them up with nuts and then cook them. They were eaten on a daily basis as appetizers or desserts. The Japanese Dormouse as a Pet Photo：Japanese Dormouse Due to the Japanese dormouse being designated as a nationally protected species, it is not allowed to have them as pets in Japan. However, you will see types of dormice from Europe or Asia in pet shops. When keeping them as pets, having a nesting box, drinking water, bedding materials, and a running wheel should suffice. When they begin hibernation, they sleep for half of the year, earning them the name "Sleeping Mice"; be sure to arrange their living quarters so you can see them sleeping! When they wake up from hibernation, it's mating season and they attract females with high-pitched calls. If you keep them as a pair, be aware that breeding occurs during this period. Summary of the Living Fossil - The Japanese Dormouse Source :YouTube screenshot Did you enjoy learning about the cute Japanese dormouse? We hope you were able to learn more about the biology of the Japanese dormouse, a once semi-endangered species and protected species in Japan. If you haven't yet, be sure to check out the video to see footage of this cute critter!

The Giant Salamander of Kyoto's Kamo River! 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/

The Nationally Protected "Iriomote Cat" This video, "Iriomote cat," was created by "okinawastoryMediaLib," and features special footage of the rare and endangered species- the Iriomote cat. In this article, we bring you facts and information on the ecology of the Iriomote cat, a subspecies of the Leopard cat. From 00:24 in the video, you can see the carnivorous Iriomote cat search for and successfully find food amongst the fallen leaves. The Iriomote cat looks different from a domestic cat in several ways: it has round ears with a cloudy white mark on its back (a feature found in many wild cats), a thick, bushy tail, its fur has a spotted pattern, and the area surrounding the eyes is white in color. Take a look at the unique features of the Iriomote cat in this video! More About the Iriomote Cat, a Species Endemic to the Iriomote Island of Okinawa Photo：Iriomote cat The Iriomote cat, native to Iriomote Island, is often referred to as Yamapikarya or Yamamaya by the locals. The call of an Iriomote cat sounds similar to that of a domestic cat, however they rarely cry. Unfortunately, the number of Iriomote cats is decreasing and there are thought to be only around 100 cats remaining on Iriomote Island. In 1965, when the Iriomote cat was first discovered on Iriomote Island, it was thought to be a new species. However, research has categorized the Iriomote cat as a member of the genus Prionailurus, family Felidae. Other than the domesticated cat, the Iriomote cat of Iriomote Island and the leopard cat (scientific name: Prionailurus bengalensis euptilurus) of Nagasaki prefecture's Tsushima Island are the only two known cat species to inhabit Japan. Iriomote cats are nocturnal animals who live in the mountain forest. Outside of breeding season they tend to live a solitary life. The average weight of an Iriomote cat is 3-4kg, with an average height 50-60cm, and an average life span of 7-8 years in the wild. They have a varied diet that consists of small mammals, birds, reptiles, frogs and insects. The breeding season is from February to April during which time they stick to their territory avoiding potential rivals (other members of the same sex). Unfortunately, the survival of the Iriomote cat is under threat from the continued development destroying their habitat, traffic accidents, and contagious diseases. There are no zoos or facilities that breed or raise Iriomote cats. However, the Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center strives to protect the Iriomote cat and at the facility you can learn about the rare cat through various materials, documents, and even stuffed animals. You can also purchase cute Iriomote cat plush toys, T-shirts, and other Iriomote cat related goods at the Iriomote Island Tourist Center. Summary of the Iriomote Cat Source :YouTube screenshot Please take a look at the beautiful Iriomote cat in this video as it's incredibly rare to catch a glimpse of this endangered species in the wild. From 3:51 in the video, you can even see some rare footage of the Iriomote cat climbing a tree. We hope you enjoyed watching this precious footage of the Iriomote cat! 【Official Website】Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center, Iriomote cat https://iwcc.jp/iriomotecat/cat/

Introducing Hokkaido's Cutest Critters! This video "Parent and child of fox" shows the state of the ezo red fox inhabiting In Hokkaido's, lush wilderness. You can see many wild animals such as raccoons and foxes in Hokkaido's outdoors. Be sure to watch the video to follow along. The Ezo red fox mother curled up with her kit is just adorable! There are many fans of the Ezo red fox in Japan. In 1978, a documentary movie called "The Glacier Fox" was released and became quite popular at the time. In the video, you can see a picture of an Ezo red fox mother with her kit living in nature. It's very soothing scenery. Please enjoy watching it! What Are Ezo Red Foxes? Source :YouTube screenshot Ezo red foxes are an endangered species that are widely distributed throughout Hokkaido and are also calledSakhalin. They have been frequently seen in Aomori Prefecture in recent years. It is a subspecies of the red fox that inhabits various places, and it is a carnivorous mammal. It is slightly larger than the Japanese red fox inhabiting Honshu. Its life span is generally said to be around 10 years. Ezo red foxes make high-pitched calls such as “can-can” and “wan-wan” They often eat rats, birds, and insects as food. And sometimes they come to residential areas in search of food. In this video, the kit stays close to its mother for safety and to play. From 0:06 in the video, they give playful bites and cuddle each other. It is a very cute, relaxing video about 3 minutes long. Where Can I See an Ezo Red? Photo：Ezo red foxes You may want to encounter a wild ezo red fox, but be careful as wild animals can have a parasite called Echinococcus. Kitami City, Hokkaido, has a fox specialty zoo “Ezo Red Fox Ranch”, where you can observe the ecology of cute red foxes in safety. Although it is in Hokkaido, it is quite far from Sapporo City. So if you visit Kitami City, we recommend making a hotel reservation. Summary of Hokkaido's Ezo Red Foxes Photo：Red fox The family of red foxes shown in the video is very adorable. Ezo red foxes live together in the harsh natural environment of Hokkaido. There is also a crepe shop in Fukuoka Prefecture called "Northern Fox's Favorite", which is popular with locals and tourists. Please enjoy the video of Ezo red foxes in Hokkaido; the place with the highest encounter rate of Ezo red foxes, in Japan.

Wild Yezo Sika Deer on the Notsuke Peninsula! In this video “Yezo Sika Deer on the Notsuke Peninsula（野付半島のエゾシカ）”, created by Shinji Kawamura, you can watch the wild Yezo sika deer, living in herds in the snow of the Notsuke Peninsula (野付半島, Notsuke Hanto), Hokkaido. The Yezo sika deer, which belong to the Cervidae family, is one of many subspecies of the sika deer (the Japanese deer), mainly living in the grasslands of Hokkaido. Its body is bigger than that of the Japanese deer; It is approximately 1.5 meters long and 1.1 meters high. As you can see in this video, the Yezo sika deer has large antlers, which are shed between April and May every year. Yezo sika deer are herbivorous animals, and they have unique high-pitched calls. The wild Yezo sika deer shown in this video are from herds living on the Notsuke Peninsula, Hokkaido. The Notsuke Peninsula is the biggest sand peninsula/sand spit in Japan; It is approximately 26 kilometers long, and located between Shiretoko Peninsula (知床半島, Shiretoko Hanto) and Nemuro Peninsula (根室半島, Nemuro Hanto). Many wild birds, animals, and insects live there. In December, when the grass dies, herds of Yezo sika deer move to their winter homes,- forests with more coniferous trees and less accumulated snow. From 0:55 in the video, you can see the Yezo sika deer living in herds in the snow. The Population of Wild Yezo Sika Deer Photo：Yezo Sika Deer The population of the Yezo sika deer once decreased dramatically due to hunting and deforestation in the early Meiji Period around 1868. However, after implementing measures to prohibit overhunting, the population has been increasing. Each deer eats a large amount of grass every day, so currently there are some problems regarding the damage of crops and forests, and the destruction of the environment. In addition, as its population has increased, more Yezo sika deer have been appearing in urban areas, which leads to problems of disruptive animals. From 1:33 in the video, you can hear sounds of cars driving in the background near a herd of Yezo sika deer. From the video, you can see that the Yezo sika deer lives very closely to humans. The "Yezo Deer Association" was founded in order to maintain a symbiotic relationship with the Yezo sika deer. Currently people take some measures to control the population of the Yezo sika deer, such as controlled hunting. The captured Yezo sika deer are used in venison dishes, for leather-working, deer fur products, antler products, and so on. Wild game meat dishes are very expensive in Europe, and venison is said to be healthy and has a unique flavor, so venison dishes are very popular. Venison is heated thoroughly and cooked into roasted meat or steak to avoid zoonotic diseases and food intoxication. Where to See the Wild Yezo Sika Deer Photo：Yezo Sika Deer on the Notsuke Peninsula The Notsuke Peninsula is an area where many wild animals have lived for a long time, even since the era of the Ainu (the native tribes of Hokkaido). It has multiple national forests and the Nationally Designated Special Wildlife Reserve. On the Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center, a hub for sightseeing, you can learn about the natural surroundings and the history of the Notsuke Peninsula. It also provides a wide range of tours, so you can join one of them and go around the Notsuke Peninsula. (The tours are a paid attraction and you must book ahead of time). We cannot guarantee that you can always see the Yezo sika deer as they are wild, but even if you cannot see the deer during the tour, you can still enjoy the wild of Hokkaido to your hearts content. Overview of the Yezo Sika Deer Introductory Video Source :YouTube screenshot The video we introduced this time showed Yezo sika deer living in herds in Hokkaido's wilderness. The video has many fun facts about the Yezo sika deer, such as characteristics of its antlers, the white furs of their hips, and its general habits, so be sure to take a look if you haven't yet! If you're looking to enjoy Japan's wilderness, look no further than Hokkaido! 【Official Website】Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center Hokkaido Betsukai http://notsuke.jp/ 【Official Website】Yezo Deer Association http://yezodeer.org/

Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park! This video, titled "SNOW MONKEY JAPAN｜Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park｜Monkeys in Hot Springs," introduces the tourist spot in Nagano prefecture (長野県, Nagano ken) in Koushinetsu region (甲信越地方, Koushinetsu chihou ) of Japan. The monkeys at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park bathe in the hot springs to fend off the cold in the winter. Enjoy watching the lovely monkeys chilling out in the cold winter weather! What is Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park? Source :YouTube screenshot Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is a popular destination for both domestic and foreign travelers. It's called "Snow Monkey Mountain" in English. The park can be enjoyed in every season, and in the fall, the leaves change to beautiful shades of red and yellow, creating a completely different atmosphere than that of the snowscapes of winter. The video shows how to get to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park by taking the Nagano Electric Railway's Snow Monkey Limited Express (長野電鉄特急スノーモンキー, Nagano Dentetsu Tokkyu Snow Monkey) connecting Nagano station and Yudanaka station, at 0:27 in the video. It takes about 15 minutes to get to the Kanbayashi hot spring (上林温泉, Kanbayashi Onsen) parking area by bus, and about 30 minutes to get to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park by foot. We recommend stopping at Yokoyugawa Valley (横湯川渓谷, Yokoyugawa Keikoku) on the way. You need to buy a ticket to enter when you arrive at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. This is shown at 3:36 in the video. Source :YouTube screenshot At Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, you can enjoy watching a bunch of monkeys playing around. When they get cold, they hop in the hot springs for a bit to warm up. Unfortunately, if it's hot out, the monkeys won't be getting in the hot springs too frequently. That being said, we recommend visiting on colder days so you can see the adorable sight of them bathing. There are live cameras you can check out before visiting to see what the weather is like as well. Monkeys Bathing at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Photo：Snow monkey You can watch monkeys taking a bath in the video at 4:38. A troop of monkeys bathe in the springs, surrounded by white snow. The monkeys enjoy their bath time much like people, and you can even see a mother and her child taking a bath together at 5:06. One monkey can be seen relaxing with its eyes closed at 6:30 in the video. Although there are many tourists around, the monkeys pay no mind and go on enjoying themselves. Sightseeing Around Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park The bus tour, which goes around Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, is great for people who enjoy lively sightseeing trips. We also recommend stopping by Jigokudani Hot Spring Inn (地獄谷温泉後楽館, Jigokudani Onsen Korakukan) and Jigokudani Fountain (地獄谷噴泉, Jigokudani Funsen) as well. Shiga Plateau (志賀高原, Shiga Kougen) is another popular tourist spot in Nagano prefecture. There are cafés where you can eat lunch, cool hotels, and an art museum that you can enjoy here. Summary of Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Photo：Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Entrance Unfortunately the only way to get to Jidokudani Snow Monkey Park is to walk the promenade from the parking area to the park itself. It takes about 30 minutes, so we highly recommend wearing comfortable clothing. There are some rules that you need to follow as not to scare the monkeys, so be sure to check those out as well. There are many places to stay near Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, so if you're planning on staying over night you'll have no trouble finding a place to stay. Are you ready to see some cute monkeys in person? ◆Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park◆ 【Address】6845 Yamanouchi-machi Shimotakai-gun Nagano Japan 381-0401 【Access】~30 minutes by car from the Shinshu-Nakano Interchange, or ~15 minutes by bus or taxi from Yudanaka Station on the Nagano Electric Railway limited express line. ~30 minutes on foot from the Kanbayashi hot spring parking area 【Hours】Summer 8:30-17:00 Winter 9:00-16:00 【Admission fee】Adults 500 JPY, children 250 JPY (Coupons available) 【Closures】No regular holidays 【Telephone】0269-33-4379 【Stay time】2 hours 【Official Website】Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park http://en.jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1117904-d324924-Reviews-Jigokudani_Snow_Monkey_Park

The Oniyanma - Japan's Largest Dragonfly! This video, titled "Oniyanma (The Largest in Japan)" (オニヤンマ（日本最大）), introduces the oniyanma, a large dragonfly belonging to the Cordulegastridae family and Odonata order. The massive dragonfly has an abdominal length of 7 cm for males and 8 cm for female. Those that inhabit Hokkaido (北海道, Hokkaido), Yakushima Island (屋久島, Yakushima), etc., have a tendency to be smaller. Their eyes are a bright emerald green color, but change color when they are made into specimens. Their body is black with a yellow pattern and fine horizontal stripe at each section. They are compared with sieboldius albardae (ko-oniyanma), but these belong to the Gomphidae family, and are different from oniyanma in that their compound eyes are placed separately on both sides of their head, and their larvae are flat and disk-shaped and live on stones at the bottoms of rivers. Oniyanma - Distribution and Habits Photo：Oniyanma Oniyanma are widely distributed throughout Japan, mainly around streams, riverbanks, outskirts of forests and mountainous areas, but they can also be seen on the plains and in urban areas when it is cooler. International visitors may be surprised to find them in urban areas because of their very large area of activity. When you find a female oniyanma, you can catch it by taking advantage of its habit of stopping its movement and hovering. Male Oniyanma consider anything that flaps its wings to be female, so if you hold a fan or other wind-producing object in front of the male, it will stop moving. If you're a bug collector, you can use this as a reference when collecting! The Life Cycle of Oniyanma Photo：Oniyama Patrol Oniyanma are carnivorous, feeding on moths, flies, and other small flying insects. Their natural predators are birds, bats, etc. They can bite humans as well, so be careful. Male oniyanma mate with females they meet while patrolling their territory. After mating, the female will go to a clean river or puddle to lay her eggs. Upon finding a suitable location, oniyanma perform a unique spawning display in which they will drop to the surface of the water while standing up and flying. You can see a female oniyanma laying eggs at 0:30 in the video. They spawn by thrusting their ovipositor into the mud in the water. Photo：An oniyama hatching Eggs hatch about 1 month after being laid, and the larvae are called nymphs. Nymphs are a translucent white with no wings and a short abdomen. They burrow into the mud to lie in wait for food to pass. When they are young, they feed on water fleas, mosquito larvae, etc., but as they grow older they begin feeding on tadpoles, small fish, etc. In addition, they feed on each other as well as nymphs of other species and, as a result, only the strong survive. It takes five years for them to become adults, and they molt about ten times before reaching this stage. Eventually, compound eyes pop out and the mouth part of the molt becomes a unique face as if they were wearing masks. Eventually, scaly wings form on their backs, and on a sunny summer day, they climb up from the bottom of the water to a stone or pile on the surface of the water and their backs split open and they emerge as adults. Immediately after hatching, their wings are white and shrunken, but over night, the black and yellow pattern appears and the wings solidify. You can amazing footage of an oniyanma molting at 0:58 in the video. After emerging as adults, they continuously feed for about a month before mating. The total life span of an oniyanma is 5-6 years. Summary of Oniyanma- Japan's Largest Dragonfly Photo：An adult oniyanma emerging Did you enjoy learning about the oniyanma, the largest dragonfly in Japan? Footage of them laying eggs is quite rare, so if you still haven't yet, be sure to check it out!

Introducing the Wild Brown Bears of Hokkaido This video, titled “Encountering Wild Brown Bears that are Catching Salmon @ Shiretoko Hokkaido 20131010（野生のヒグマと遭遇 サケを捕食＠北海道 知床 20131010）” films two wild brown bears catching salmon that were swimming in the river. A brown bear is terrestrial mammal of the Ursidae family and their size is about the same as polar bears. Sub-species of foreign brown bears include Kodiak bears, Grizzly bears and Himalayan bears. The main sub-spices of brown bears which inhabit Hokkaido are called Ezo brown bears. This video is of wild Ezo brown bears catching salmon at the river, and it is a very rare sight. We hope you enjoy their fishing skills! What Kind of Animal Is the Ezo Brown Bear? Photo：Ezo brown bear One of the most well-known bears in Japan is the Asian black bear. These black bears actually inhabit the main island of japan. Ezo brown bears, on the other hand, inhabit forests in Hokkaido where the climate is generally colder. Ussuri brown bears are another bear that is a subspecies of brown bears. The Ussuri brown bear is also known as the Ezo brown bear. The size differs depending on the gender, with male bears being about 1.9 to 2.3 meters tall and weighing 120 kg to 250 kg. Female bears are about 1.6 to 1.8 meters tall, and are actually heavier than than males, weighing between 150 to 160 kg. Some of them are gigantic, weighing in at 450 kg. The Ezo brown bears inhabiting Japan are the largest kind of terrestrial animal in Japan. The number of Ezo brown bears is around 2,244 to 6,476 (as of 2013). The bears are known as omnivorous, and they like to eat fish, meat, and plants as well. The life span of a wild Ezo brown bear is about 30 years. They tend to live longer than different mammals. Highlights of Ezo Brown Bears Source :YouTube screenshot The video shows the viewers two Ezo brown bears hunting salmon at a river. It was filmed in October when the bears were getting ready for hibernation. From 4:21 in the video, we can see bears using both of their paws to catch salmon. At 0:18, one bear carries a salmon to the side of the river. At 4:54, the bears bring salmon ashore and comfortably enjoy their meals in peace. You'll be surprised by what happens at the end. Be sure to watch the full video so you don't miss out! The bears were so focused on their hunting that they didn't show any fear of the people filming them. Its incredibly rare that we see footage of Hokkaido's wild brown bears hunting. Be Aware of Wild Bears When Traveling to Hokkaido! Photo： Beware of Bears In Hokkaido, A study has been conducted to work on how to handle wild Ezo brown bears and ways of coexisting with them. There are several cases of humans being attacked by wild bears in Hokkaido. If you visit Hokkaido, please be aware that there are wild bears and research the areas in advance. Before your travels, please make sure that there are no wild bear alerts in the area you are traveling to. In order to keep bears away, have bells or turn on a radio to show them that humans are around. If you do encounter a wild bear, just think that bears are also afraid of humans. Screaming makes the bear scared, and it will enter into a defensive mode, and might try to attack you. Avoid running away from bears because bears tend to chase what’s running away from them. They can run up to 60km/h so the chance that they will catch you is extremely high . Instead of running away or screaming, try standing up on top of a rock or a log to make you look bigger and be intimidating. The most effective way to keep the bears away is to use a bear spray. Some people think bears are cute animals, and while this may be true, they are also dangerous as well. Please keep this in mind. Summary of Hokkaido's Wild Brown Bears If you are interested in learning more about brown bears, please visit a zoo, such as the Noboribetsu bear park, or the Showa Shinzan bear ranch. “Higuma Doughnuts” is a cafe in Meguro, Tokyo which uses selected ingredients from Hokkaido where brown bears live. If you visit Hokkaido, please visit a gift store to purchase some Hokkaido souvenirs. Be sure to check out the Ezo brown bears, the video is too adorable to miss!

Koi Carp: Loved by the Japanese Since Long Ago This video is called ‘Koi Carp 〜Swimming Art〜 (錦鯉 〜泳ぐ芸術〜)’ and made by JVT Channel (JVTチャンネル). The video shows you colorful koi swimming elegantly. Koi are aquarium fish with a long history. Historical records show koi being used as the inspiration for painting patterns of items exhibited at expos during the Taisho Period (1912～1926). They are actually an invasive species to Japan. The specially bred fish have been bred into many different varieties. Koi are kept as aquarium fish in aquariums and ponds within Japanese gardens. Their characteristics are their beautiful patterns and striking colors. The average size of these fish is between 30 and 60 cm and their life span is around 30 years. Let’s take a look at why these fish are so attractive. The video shows you a koi farm and a competition that you don’t get an opportunity to see often. Be sure to check it out while reading this article. What Are Koi? Photo：Koi Koi were originally called "irogoi" (色鯉, colored carp), hanagoi (花鯉, flower carp), and "moyougoi" (模様鯉, patterned carp) in Japanese. They started to be called Nishikigoi (錦鯉, brocade carp) because of their luxurious designs reminiscent of a brocade. The Japanese brocade shown at 0:14 in the documentary video is a Japanese traditional silk fabric made by weaving variously colored threads. Koi were originally eaten as a food, then, one day, a unique fish with beautiful patterns appeared. There are many kinds of koi, such as red and white and tri-colored koi with red, white, and black. In addition to the Taisho Sanshoku (tri-color) and the Showa Sanshoku, there are some unusually colored ones, such as light yellow, autumn Green, tortoise shell patterned koi, reflective koi, five Colored koi, and gold and Peacock koi as well. How Are Koi Looked After? Source :YouTube screenshot It takes a lot of work to raise beautiful Nishikigoi. The Dainichi Koi Farm in Niigata Prefecture in Japan's Koshinetsu region, farms koi. At the farm, they strictly control water temperature and quality, as well as feeding schedules. They put great care into raising beautiful koi. They are also very particular about the feed given to their koi. This can be seen from 1:13 in the video. From 1:37, you can see many baby koi as well. Hiroshi Mano from Dainichi Koi Farm says in the interview, "The most important things are maintaining proper water temperature and quality. Beautiful koi are strong, healthy koi. From 3:27 in the video, you can see the annual National Koi Competition. Koi from the Dainichi Koi Farm were the winners of this competition. How to Get Your Very Own Japanese Koi There are many kinds of koi. In Japan, many people love koi. Koi with patterns or beautiful colors are sold at auctions for sometimes astronomically high prices. Furthermore, you can buy specially bred varieties of koi at online shops and Yahoo Japan Auctions, but they usually go for quite a bit of money. Some orders for Japanese koi come from overseas. The number of koi exported overseas is increasing year by year. Popular koi have been used as a motifs in traditional Japanese crafts as well. We recommend buying plates and chopstick holders with koi pattern designs. Summary of Japan's "Swimming Jewels" Photo：Koi In Japan, there are many kinds of aquarium fish, such as goldfish and Japanese rice fish. Among them, koi are loved by many people for their jewel-like beauty. Koi are born around Niigata Prefecture area. You can learn the history and the characteristics of koi at Nishikigoi no Sato in Niigata, the birthplace of koi, and at Fukuoka Koinosato Park in Fukuoka-machi, Toyama Prefecture in Japan's Hokuriku region, which is one of Japan’s most famous koi production towns. If you have a large landscape garden or a large aquarium and would like some koi of your own, try searching online or try out some auction sites to see if they have what you're looking for. You can see many koi with beautiful patterns in the video. Be sure to check out the video to enjoy the beauty of Japan's "swimming jewels."

Hornets V.S. Japanese Honey Bees This video is titled "Small Japanese Honeybees Unite to Repel an Invading Hornet｜Nat Geo" (スズメバチを撃退するニホンミツバチ | ナショジオ). The video is produced by "National Geographic." To repel the wasps, which are several times larger than they are, the Japanese honeybees use a special technique in which they cover the body of the wasp and quite literally cook it alive. Please enjoy the awesome footage shown in the video! Japanese Honey Bees Photo：A honey bee The Japanese honey bee is an insect of the order Hymenoptera and family Apidae. It is a living species that has been inhabiting Japan since ancient times. In addition to Japanese honey bees, there are other types of bees, including the dwarf honey bee and giant honey bee. These bees help pollinate flowers and grasses and make wax from the pollen in their nests in trees and under houses. The flower nectar has been processed and sold for a long time as products such as honey, propolis, and royal jelly. Most Japanese honeybees live in the wild, and those that are kept in captivity are released into the wild to collect pollen and take it back to their hives. The non-native honey bee species, the western honey bee, often helps with pollination in agriculture. Japanese honeybees live in large areas of Japan and can be seen all over Japan, excluding Hokkaido, Okinawa, and some remote islands. In addition to living in the mountains, they can also be found in urban areas, and although they are said to be endangered, the Japanese are very familiar with them. Also, unlike the hornet, the Japanese honeybee has a warm personality and is famous for not stinging people often. Combined with their cute appearance, they have a good reputation in foreign countries. You don't need a special license to keep them, and anyone can do so, provided they file the proper documents. Japanese Hornets. How They're Different From Honey Bees Photo：Adult hornets While Japanese honeybees feed on the nectar of flowers, adult hornets feed on nutrients secreted by their larvae. The larvae feed mainly on insects, and capture and feed on smaller insects such as honey bees in order to grow. These differences in feeding habits are due to differences in the body structure of the adult hornet. Adult hornets have a narrowing between their chest and abdomen, which prevents them from ingesting solids, such as insects. It's also very different in that the larvae of the Japanese honey bee makes honey, whereas the larvae of the wasp does not. Hornets V.S. Japanese Honey Bees - The Showdown Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see from the video at 0:13, hornets often attack honeybees to feed their young. In particular, the giant hornet is so ferocious that it invades the nest of bees and attacks not only adult bees but also larvae and pupae. The bee's response to such an attack is the killer heat ball that can be seen at 0:24 in the video. This takes advantage of the weakness of the hornets, as we all know bug types are weak to fire. The bees, rather than using their stingers, form up on the hornet, attaching themselves to it and creating a ball of bees. In the video, 500 Japanese honey bees can be seen covering the hornets. The internal temperature of the Japanese honeybee rises to 47.2° C (117° Fahrenheit), and the increase in carbon dioxide repels the hornets. Summary of Honey Bees V.S. Hornets Did you enjoy learning about the fierce war between honey bees and hornets? The amazing counter attack of the bees shows just how amazing nature is!

More About Kuroiwa's Ground Gecko- A Protected Species in Japan The video featured this time is called "It looks like a lizard but it's not?!" It was created by "Toranosuke's Creature Movies" and it shows a close up look at the Kuroiwa gecko, a protected species. Kuroiwa's ground gecko, also known as the Okinawan ground gecko, is a member of the Eublepharinae family (トカゲモドキ科, tokagemodokika) of geckos. These geckos belong to the order Squamata, suborder Sauria, infraorder Gekkota, family Eublepharinae and genus Goniurosaurus (爬虫類有鱗目トカゲ亜目ヤモリ下目トカゲモドキ科トカゲモドキ属, hachuurui yuurinmoku tokageamoku yamorikamoku tokagemodokika), as do the common leopard geckos (レオパードゲッコー, reopaadogekko) who are often kept as pets. The Eublepharinae family of geckos is a group of primitive geckos endemic to the island of Tokunoshima (徳之島) in Kagoshima prefecture (鹿児島県, kagoshimaken). They differ from other geckos in that they have eyelids, allowing them to close their eyes. Due to their underdeveloped feet, they cannot climb walls as well as other geckos. As with other geckos, if they lose their tail it can grow back again. An adult gecko is roughly 15-18cm in length, weighs roughly 7-17g and spawns in the warmer months from May to August. They usually lay 2 eggs at a time, in one month intervals. In this video, you will have the rare opportunity to observe Kuroiwa's ground geckos in the wild. Did you know such a cute creature inhabited Japan? Please take the time to enjoy our video! Japan's Effort to Protect This Endangered Species Photo：Kuroiwa ground gecko Kuroiwa's ground geckos live deep in the mountains and can’t be seen in Naha (那覇) or other big cities in Okinawa. Due to deforestation and loss of habitat, the number of Kuroiwa ground geckos has decreased in recent years. Kuroiwa's ground geckos are carnivorous, feeding on mainly insects and ground worms. Due to their nocturnal nature, you can't spot them during the daylight hours. They are often referred to as Jihab or Ashihab by Okinawan people, and in the past they were wrongly believed to be poisonous. The Kuroiwa ground geckos found in southern Okinawa (in the area surrounding Naha Airport) have a straight line pattern down their back, whereas the geckos found in northern Okinawa (in the mountainous regions) have slightly different markings. You can see this distinct straight line pattern clearly at 0:58 and 4:34 in the video. There are also subspecies of the Kuroiwa ground gecko found in Okinawa, each with their own unique and interesting markings. Due to their collectability as pets, in the past they were poached and sold at a high price by foreigners. In Japan they are designated as a protected species and therefore hunting and breeding of them is prohibited by law. Preventing the Overhunting of Japan's Protected Species According to the Washington Convention's rules regarding business transactions of wild animals, the illegal hunting of protected species is prohibited in Japan. Due to the rules of this treaty, endangered species in Japan are required to be actively protected. Since being designated as a protected species in Japan, two subspecies of Kuroiwa ground geckos: Goniurosaurus kuroiwae sengokui (ケラマトカゲモドキ, keramatokagemodoki) and Goniurosaurus kuroiwae toyamai (イヘヤトカゲモドキ, iheyatokagemodoki), have been added to the critically endangered list of reptiles by the Japanese Ministry for the Environment. However, that isn't the only problem threatening Kuroiwa ground geckos. Non-native species such as mongooses, dogs, cats and the American bullfrog are common predators of Kuroiwa's ground gecko and are contributing to their dwindling numbers. Summary of the Kuroiwa Ground Gecko Source :YouTube screenshot The protected species, Kuroiwa ground gecko, which is often amicably nicknamed the 'living dinosaur,' is a lizard rarely spotted in the wild in Okinawa but can be seen clearly in this video. At 1:48 in the video, you can see their movements in detail as one gecko moves slowly across the forest floor. Please enjoy watching the rare footage of this living fossil!

Wild Japanese Boars The video "MI0231 Japanese Boar Adult Beast" (MI0231 ニホンイノシシ　成獣), was created by "Asia Nature Library." It captures footages of a dangerous wild Japanese boar. The large, sturdy body of the Japanese wild boar was filmed from up close, showing off just how strong it is. Feel the power of the wild Japanese boar in the video! Be sure to follow along as you read this article! The Japanese Boar Photo：Japanese boar The Japanese wild boar is a member of the Suidae family and Artiodactyla order. Its scientific name is "sus scrofa," and it's often just called a boar. Its characterized by its ability to lunge and be aggressive. On the other hand, it's timid and acts with caution. Moreover, the boar is known as the "Pig," which is one of the twelve Chinese zodiacs, and young boars are called "piglets." Japanese boars have hard, thick, and coarse fur, the color of which is generally brown or dark brown, but every once in a while white boars are found. The lifespan of the Japanese boar is about 10 years. They also have the ability to jump and they can leap 1 meter high without a run-up. The size of the Japanese boar is 100-170 cm in length, 60-90 cm in shoulder height, with tails 30-40 cm long. They weigh 80-190 kg. At the highest end, a boar that weighed around 220 kg was caught as well. Their lower jaw is equipped with tusks. Normally they are active in the day, but their behavioral pattern changes to that of nocturnal animals when they are in an area with humans. They have a wide range of activity and have been reported to travel up to several kilometers a day, and their keen sense of smell allows them to sniff out crops, and they can even destroy farmland. They also occasionally swim to nearby islands. Historically in Japan, wild boars had been hunted for meat. People used to eat meat from boars, deer, etc., but eaten meat was mostly avoided after the introduction of Buddhism to Japan. Even in the present day, they are caught by the likes of the matagi (traditional winter hunters), and eaten in game meat cuisine, wild boar stew (ぼたん鍋, botan nabe), and more. Types of Boars Photo：Boar Wild boars originally lived mainly in Asia and Europe, but were introduced to the Americas and Australia by human intervention. While boars now inhabit many places around the world, with a wide range of sizes and varying habitats. In northeast China and Alabama in the US, boars that weigh more than 300 kg have been reported. In Japan, there are 2 subspecies, the Japanese boar that inhabits Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu, and the Ryukyu boar in Okinawa. The Danger of the Wild Japanese Boar Photo：Boar Wild Japanese boars are timid by nature and rarely attack humans by themselves, but they may be provoked when encountered at close range or if agitated. The Japanese wild boar can run at speeds of up to 45 km/h and, they have incredibly powerful lunges, making them very dangerous if they decide to attack. If you are passing through an area where there have been reports of boars, you can use bells or other sounds to alert people. Wild Japanese wild boars are omnivorous, eating mostly plants, fruits, bamboo shoots, and mushrooms that grow in the forests. You can see a close-up of a wild boar eating at 0:25 in the video. They have been reported to destroy crops and plants, so those who live near a forest are advised to be careful. Summary of the Wild Japanese Boar The video featured in this article gives an up close look at Japan's wild boars. It's an animal you won't find in zoos, so be sure to check it out! If you're a fan of animals, be sure to give it a watch!

Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise's Dolphin Show! This video is titled “A Dolphin Show to Enjoy at Home Long Version “Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise（おうちで楽しむイルカショー ロングver【横浜・八景島シーパラダイス】）.” It was uploaded by Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise. You'll feel like you're at the aquarium just by watching this video. Check out the exciting footage of these adorable dolphins putting on an amazing performance! What Is Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise’s Dolphin Show? Source :YouTube screenshot At Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise, you can watch shows involving various sea creatures. As you can see from 0:05 in the video, mascot Sea Para Seata appears and from 0:49 the show of penguins and dolphins begins. You can see a cool hawk from 1:00. When the dolphins jump in tandem with the music, the water splashes high into the air. This can be seen at 4:24 in the video. Be careful of sitting in the front row, you're bound to get splashed! There are other shows involving seals and walruses as well, so be sure to check them out if you're interested. We recommend booking a hotel so that you can enjoy a whole day at the aquarium. There's also a shopping mall, hotel, and a marina all inside Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise. What Is Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise Like? Photo：Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise is a leisure facility, called "Sea Para" for short. The aquarium is at Aqua Zone and there are several sections, such as the Aqua Museum, Aqua Stadium Dolphin Fantasy, Sea Farm, and The Fureai Lagoon where you can pet some of the animals. The amusement park is at Pleasure Land and there are restaurants, souvenir shops and amusement zones. The magic show by Mr. Maric and the illumination event LIGHTIA were 2 very popular events. Summary of Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise Photo：Dolphin Watching a dolphin show is very exciting. If you haven't gotten your fill of dolphins, there's plenty to see in the video! Check out the website for tickets and get ready to visit Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise! There are quite a few seats at the dolphin show, but be aware that it can be crowded on weekends. ◆Information◆ 【Address】 Hakkeijima, Kanazawa, Yokohama, Kanagawa 236-0006 【Access】 Hakkeijima Station Seaside Line. Bus available from Yokohama Station 【Aqua resort pass】 3,000 yen for adult and 1,800 yen for elementary to junior high school students (Depends on season/ Amusement park one day pass discount available) 【Closures】No holidays 【Parking】Available 【Phone number】045-788-8888 【Official Website】Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise http://www.seaparadise.co.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298173-d1308703-Reviews-Yokohama_Hakkeijima_Sea_Paradise-Yokohama_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto.html a

The Cute Akita Dogs of Japan This video, titled "Akita dogs - Loyal Japanese Dogs" (秋田犬 〜忠誠心に厚い日本の犬〜), is an introductory video that shares the charm of Akita dogs, famous for Shibuya Station’s Loyal Dog Hachiko. The video was produced by "JVT Channel." The Akita is a Japanese dog that has been designated a national natural treasure and is very familiar to the Japanese people. Loyal and gentle, the Akita is a popular dog in other countries as well. In this article, we'll take a look at the adorable Akita! The Akita Photo：Akita dog Akita, not to be confused with the prefecture of the same name, are a Japanese dog breed. Their gentle and loyal nature has made them a popular dog around the world. They have a lovely round face, triangular ears, and a curled-up tail. The Akita Dog comes in a variety of coat colors, such as brindle, but the most common color is red fawn. The red variety has a reddish-brown tinge around the forehead and on the back. They are sold at pet stores at prices ranging from 60,000 to 120,000 yen. It is the only large dog among the six types of dogs native to Japan and stands about 61-67 cm tall, with a life span of 10-13 years, which is the average for large dogs. Contrary to its larger size, their gentle characteristic are one of the main reasons for their popularity. You can see the features of the Akita dog at 0:07 in the video. The Akita dog's ancestors lived in the city of Odate, Akita Prefecture, in the Tohoku region of Japan. After dogfighting became popular in Japan, the Akita was crossed with the Tosa Inu and Mastiffs and became larger, which led to their current form today. Since they are large dogs, they need to be trained from when they are puppies and need to be walked regularly, as they were originally hunting dogs. The Charm of Akita Dogs - Obedient and Energetic Pets Photo：Akita Dog The charm of Akita dogs are their cute faces and gentle nature. There are several types of Japanese dogs, including the small Shiba Inu (dog), and the medium-sized Kishu inu, Shikoku inu, Hokkaido inu, and Kai inu, but among them, Akita dogs are considered the most loyal and gentle. At 0:47 in the video, you can see the bronze statue of Hachiko in front of Shibuya station in Tokyo, where he waited for his master every day, for nearly 10 years after his master had already passed away. His loyalty is still praised today. The original Akita dog was bred as the Akita Matagi (a hunting dog), but the number of Akita dogs has declined dramatically in recent years due to the growing popularity of small, easy-to-keep dogs and other indoor breeds. However, in recent years, the Akita has begun to attract attention again! There was a news that an Akita dog was sent as a gift to the Russian figure skater gold medalist Alina Zagitova, and she named it "Masaru." In addition to Zagitova, many foreigners have become fascinated by the Akita, and more and more people are adopting them as pets. Source :YouTube screenshot The city of Odate in Akita Prefecture, the birthplace of the Akita dog, is also working to promote the dog's appeal to a wider audience. They visit nursing homes and elementary schools to allow communities to interact with them. You can see this at 2:10 in the video. In Odate, you can also visit Akita Inu no Sato (Akita Dog Visitor Center) and interact with the dogs. Summary of the Cute and Gentle Akita Dogs Photo：Akita Dog The video, "Akita dogs - Loyal Japanese Dogs," produced by "JVT Channel" is an introductory video that shares the charm of Akita dogs. Although the number of Akita dogs is decreasing due to the popularity of small, easy-to-keep dogs, the Akita is by far the cutest and most loyal. They are loyal to their owners, and their gentle nature attracts many people. If you're a dog lover, this video is a must watch!

Beautiful Japanese scenery! The Dance of the Red-crowned Crane! The mysterious and beautiful dance of the red-crowned crane is popular both inside and outside of Japan. In this video, titled "タンチョウの舞い Japanese Crane Dance ( Shot on RED EPIC High-speed )," we would like to introduce to you the courtship dance of the red-crowned crane. The red-crowned crane is a member of the Cruiformes order, Gruidae family of birds, and is known as a migratory bird; however, there are some non-migratory red-crowned cranes in Japan that can be found in the east of Hokkaido all year round. The elegant looks and majestic appearance of the red-crowned crane as it spreads its wings, make it a very popular bird. A fully-grown adult's wing span can reach over 2 meters, and they are the largest wild bird in Japan). The crane is probably the most well-known example of origami and the crane can also be seen in many other Japanese designs. The most famous of which are the 1000 yen note and the Japan Airlines logo. The red-crowned crane's dance can often be seen in winter as this is the start of the mating season. From 00:36 in the video, you can see a pair of red-crowned cranes dance while matching their calls. It’s a beautiful and magical sight. They way in which they spread their wings and jump around each other is very mysterious. Please enjoy the rare and precious footage. Where Are the Largest Breeding Grounds in Japan? Photo：Red-crowned crane courtship dance The ecology of the red-crowned crane is still shrouded in mystery. However, it is known that there are red-crowned cranes inhabiting both the north-eastern area of Eurasia and also the Kushiro wetlands (釧路湿原, kushiroshitsugen) of Hokkaido. They are omnivorous, feeding on mainly insects, fish, and seaweed found in freshwater. Due to these feeding preferences, they can often be found inhabiting wetland marshes, lakes and rivers. When winter comes around, mating couples are formed and families gather to pass the winter together. The majority of red-crowned cranes choose to spend the winter in China or the Korean Peninsula although it has been confirmed by the Wild Bird Society of Japan and the Ministry of the Environment that some do remain in Japan for the winter. The nonmigratory red-crowned cranes endemic to Japan are known to have a different sounding call to the introduced species. Until they were rediscovered in the Kushiro wetlands in 1924, it was thought that this endemic species had become extinct. In 1967, the red-crowned crane was designated a protected species in Japan and to this day the dance of the red-crowned crane remains the highlight of winter sightseeing in Hokkaido. Red-crowned Crane Facts Photo：Parent and child cranes The average height of the red-crowned crane is 102-147 cm and they can weigh anywhere from 4 kg to over 10 kg. They are covered in white feathers, with black feathers covering the area surrounding the eyes down to their neck and also the tips of their wings. The top of their head has no feathers and instead exposes a bright red patch of skin which is their distinguishing feature. During the breeding season their territory can cover an area of 1-7 square kilometers. They build nests mostly in marshy grasslands, by the waterside or shallows in order to lay their eggs and bring up their offspring there. The Japanese name for the red-crowned crane, "Tanchouzuru," comes from the word "Tan" which means red and refers to the red patch of exposed skin on the top of their head. According to Japanese literature, they were mentioned as far back as 1133 in the "Shijoshuu" and often appear in Japanese fairytales and folklore. Although the red-crowned crane has inhabited Japan for hundreds of years, there is still little information on things such as their average lifespan, the difference in appearance between males and females, and why the cranes that inhabit Japan are nonmigratory. Summary of the Red-crowned Crane Photo：Red-crowned crane・Courtship dance Currently, local governments in Hokkaido are fighting to protect the red-crowned crane with activities such as actively feed them during harsh times, such as in the middle of winter. Thanks to their efforts, the numbers of red-crowned cranes in Japan is steadily increasing. It's said that the Japanese species of red-crowned crane can be distinguished from the Siberian species that was introduced to Japan by differences in the sound of their calls. You can enjoy listening to their beautiful call and seeing their dance from 00:36 in the video.