Introducing the Yanaizu Naked Man Festival of Enzoji Temple in Fukushima, Japan This video, titled "Yanaizu Naked Man Festival (Nanokado Hadaka Mairi) - Fukushima - 七日堂裸参り" It introduces the Yanaizu Naked Man Festival held at Enzoji Temple in the Yanaizu region of Fukushima, Japan. Every year on January 7, a large number of visitors participate in the Yanaizu Naked Man Festival in Yanaizu, held at Enzoji Temple to pray for happiness and good health in the new year. Check out the video to experience the excitement of Fukushima Prefecture's historic Naked Man Festival. A Powerful and Unique Festival! The Yanaizu Naked Man Festival of Enzoji Temple! Photo：Enzoji Temple, Yanaizu, Fukushima The Yanaizu Naked Man Festival takes place at Enzoji Temple, located in the town of Yanaizu, in the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture. The principal deity of Enzo-ji Temple is Fukuman Kokuzoson, one of the three great bodhisattva in Japanese Buddhism. The temple's history dates back to 807 A.D. It's said that the reason why the the Yanaizu Naked Man Festival was held at the historic Enzoji Temple is due to a legend. In the Aizu region in the past, there was an epidemic that caused many deaths. At that time, one of the elders had a dream in which he received a prophecy that if he offered the jewel of the Dragon God to the Bodhisattva, the plague would disappear. The elder asked Princess Yayoi, who was considered the most beautiful woman in the Aizu region, to obtain the Dragon God's jewel. Princess Yayoi managed to obtain the jewel and presented it to the Bodhisattva, and in the blink of an eye, the disease disappeared. However, the dragon god living in the Tadami River came to steal the jewel back. It is said that on January 7, the day the Dragon God is said to be the quietest throughout the year, worshippers are invited to climb up a hemp rope over the temple gong, and protect the jewel from the Dragon God. Pray for Good Health and Happiness in the Year Ahead With the Yanaizu Naked Man Festival Source :YouTube screenshot It is now a traditional event held every year on January 7 and attracts approximately 300 visitors from all over the country. In addition, the public is welcome to participate, and many people pray for good health and happiness in the coming year. *Women are allowed to observe only. The Yanaizu Naked Man Festival begins with the sounding of the large bell. Men wearing loincloths run up the 113 stone steps to the main hall. Then, just like the legend of the time, they climb up over the large gong. This can be seen from 0:03 of the video. You can hear the spectators cheering on the men climbing up the rope as well. Folk Crafts of Yanaizu, Aizu Photo：Akabeko cows, a folk craft of Yanaizu, Aizu In addition to the Yanaizu Naked Man Festival, a traditional event of Fukushima shown in the video, the Aizu region is home to a number of popular folk crafts. For instance, akabeko and nade ushi (撫牛, lit. "petting cows") are popular folk crafts in the Aizu region. Both are said to bring good luck and fortune, and are becoming popular not only among residents of the prefecture but also across Japan and abroad. A statue of a cow is also enshrined in the precincts of Enzoji Temple, which is well known as a cow that brings good luck. Summary of the Yanaizu Naked Man Festival, a Traditional Event in Fukushima The Yanaizu Naked Man Festival began with an old legend. Every year on January 7, many people visit the shrine to pray for good health and happiness throughout the year. The event is easily accessible from Koriyama and open to the public, so if interested in checking out a more unique festival, be sure not to miss out on the chance to experience it for yourself. 【Official Website】The Yanaizu Naked Man Festival - Yanaizu, Aizu, the birthplace of the https://inbound.aizu-yanaizu.com/en/event/

Hirosaki Park's Winter Cherry Blossom Illumination: Video Introduction This video, titled "【4K】2022 Hirosaki Park 'Sakura Illumination Blooming in Winter'" (2022年 弘前公園「冬に咲くさくらライトアップ」【4K】 2022 Hirosaki Park 'Sakura Illumination Blooming in Winter), was uploaded by "TheEAGLEBOM." Did you know that you can see cherry blossoms blooming in the snow? We hope you'll enjoy these winter cherry blossoms filmed at night at Hirosaki Park, located in Hirosaki, Aomori, in Japan's Tohoku region. Snow piles up on the cherry blossoms, which are imbued with a light pink hue. It truly looks as though these cherry blossoms are actually in full bloom. The snow gathering on the river's surface is reminiscent of cherry blossoms floating on the surface of the water, and stretches out like a carpet of petals. Keep thoughts of spring in your mind as you enjoy this supremely breathtaking scenery, dyed in a heart-warming pink. [Video] 2:39 – Snow Floating on the Water Like Cherry Blossoms Hirosaki Park and Its Popular Winter Cherry Blossom Illumination Photo：The winter cherry blossoms illumination at Hirosaki Park What exactly are these season-defying winter cherry blossoms? Well, in reality, this winter cherry blossom illumination makes use of the fact that snow accumulated on the branches of cherry trees makes it look like the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. This illumination event takes place during winter at Hirosaki Park, in Hirosaki, Aomori. The inspiration for the event came from a single photo taken by a member of the regional development team. The photo caused a stir on social media, with commenters unable to tell whether it was taken in spring or winter. The event carries with it the feelings of Hirosaki citizens who long to see the warming views of cherry blossoms in the cold of winter. Illuminated in pink in the moat surrounding Hirosaki Park, the subtle coloring almost makes it look as if the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and help onlookers to forget about the cold weather. To see the cherry blossoms, you'll need to arrive the same day the snow settles on the branches. The best days to see the cherry blossoms are on days when it snows heavily and it's not too cold or windy. [Video] 0:53 – What Inspired the Illuminations? Dates and Times for the 2022-2023 Winter Cherry Blossom Illumination Photo：Weeping cherry blossoms of snow at Hirosaki Park Below is a list of dates and times for the 2022 winter season. Take a friend or loved one, or go with your family and enjoy a heart-warming experience. [Dates] Every day between December 1, 2022 and February 28, 2023 [Hours] 12/1–1/10: 4:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. 1/11–1: 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. 2/1–2/13: 5:15 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. 2/14–2/21: 5:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. 2/21–2/28: 5:45 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. ※In light of current issues surrounding electricity shortages, there will be no "All-Night Illuminations." ※In the case of a sudden increase in the number of cases of infectious diseases, including COVID-19, or other unavoidable occurrences, the event may be shortened or cancelled. [Parking] Available at the Hirosaki Municipal Tourist Center Underground Parking Lot (entry/exit possible 24 hours a day) 2-1 Shimoshirogane-cho, Hirosaki, Aomori (next to Otemon gate and Hirosaki City Hall main building) ※First hour free of charge Hirosaki City Hall (7:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.) 1-1 Kamishirogane-cho, Hirosaki (next to Otemon gate) ※First hour free of charge ※It is not possible to exit this parking lot after 9:30 p.m., shortly before the illuminations finish Autoea Motodaikumachi (アウトエア元大工町)(entry/exit possible 24 hours a day) Springtime at Hirosaki Park – Spectacular Cherry Blossom Illuminations! Photo：Hirosaki Park cherry blossom illumination, Aomori Prefecture From the end of April and throughout Golden Week (a period of around one week at the end of April/beginning of May containing a number of Japanese national holidays), Hirosaki Park hosts the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival" (弘前さくらまつり, hirosaki sakura matsuri), timed to coincide with the cherry blossom season. This cherry blossoms festival at Hirosaki Castle has been touted by some as the best in Japan. The rooftop of Hirosaki City Hall - usually inaccessible to the public - is opened up, and the festival receives over 2 million visitors each year. While the location of the "cherry blossoms heart" popular on Japanese social media is sadly not in the public domain, we hear that there will be heart shaped tree stumps placed to lead you in the right direction. Be sure to keep an eye out for it as you explore the park! What's more, during the cherry blossoms festival there's a special train linking Hirosaki to other famous cherry blossoms spots around Japan's northern Tohoku region. Why not take a ride and go on a tour to view the cherry blossoms? [Cherry blossoms Festival Opening Dates] 　Late March–Early May (Generally held to coincide with the blooming of the cherry blossoms) [Hours] 　Special nighttime lighting (illuminations): Sundown – 8:30 p.m. 　※Subject to change depending on cherry blossom blooming conditions. The Colorful Autumn Illuminations of Hirosaki Park Are a Must-See as Well! Photo：Hirosaki Park's autumn illumination In the fall, the autumn leaves that have for so long added a touch of color to Hirosaki Castle, the symbol of this ancient Japanese city, are brightly illuminated. The elegant lights, which are as beautiful as any other seasonal light up, are sure to impress. While enjoying the various events and stalls, visitors can catch a glimpse of Hirosaki's history by viewing the old castle in its colorful autumn attire and the autumn leaves adorning the castle walls. [Hirosaki Castle Chrysanthemum and Autumn Leaves Festival Dates] 　Late October–Early November [Hours] 　Sundown – 8:00 p.m. And as the 1000 Japanese maples and 2600 cherry blossom trees take on the colors of fall, make sure you don't forget to check out the giant 300-year-old ginkgo tree, "Neagari Icho" (lit. lifted-root ginkgo, so named for its exposed roots). Hirosaki Park Illuminations: Roundup With illumination events in each season, Hirosaki Park, located at Hirosaki Castle, a symbol of the historical Japanese city, adds a layer of excitement to the beauty of its bountiful nature. This place deserves a spot in any travel itinerary, no matter the season, as it's one of the most popular places to visit in Japan's Tohoku region. Take your family, friends, or loved one with you, and breathe in the history in this vast park! ◆Hirosaki Park◆ 【Address】1 Shimoshirogane-cho, Hirosaki, Aomori 【Admission Fee (for paid areas）】 　[Hirosaki Castle center/northern section] Adults: ¥320 | Children: ¥100 　[Hirosaki Castle Botanical Garden] 　Adults: ¥320 | Children: ¥100 　[Discount bundle tickets for the above areas] Adults: ¥520 | Children: ¥160 【Hours】Please check the official website for opening times for paid areas. 【Access】 　On foot from Hirosaki Station (弘前駅, hirosaki-eki): Around 30 minutes 　Taxi from Hirosaki Station: Around 10 minutes 　From Hirosaki Station by bus: 4 minutes on foot when disembarking from the City Hall (市役所前, shiyakushomae) 【TripAdvisor】Hirosaki Park

石川県能登に伝わる日本の伝統「あばれ祭り」とは？ こちらの動画は「和倉温泉 多田屋 WAKURAONSEN TADAYA」が公開した石川県能登町宇出津に伝わる、「あばれ祭り」を紹介した「あばれ祭 - のとつづり」です。 あばれ祭りは350年以上の歴史がある日本の伝統行事で、無形民族文化財にも指定されています。 このお祭りは、キリコ祭りの先陣を切って行われる勇壮な祭りで、2日間に亘っておこなわれます。 1日目は約40基のキリコ山車が大松明（おおたいまつ）の火の粉を浴びながら無病息災を祈願し、御囃子や掛け声、太鼓に合わせて街を練り歩きます。 2日目には宮神輿が登場し、いやさか広場にキリコと神輿が集結しクライマックスを迎えます。 あばれ祭りという名前は宮神輿を水中や炎の中に投げ込んだり、地面に叩きつけるなどの過激なしきたりから由来しています。 祭りの期間は花火やライブ、屋台なども出て、能登の街はあばれ祭り一色になります。 石川県能登地方に伝わるキリコお祭りとイベント情報 あばれ祭りはキリコ祭りのオープニングを飾る祭りです。 キリコとは巨大な灯篭を模した山車のことで、キリコ吉祥文字と言われる地区ごとの願いや祈りを込めた文字を記し、御囃子や太鼓で祭囃子を鳴らしながら能登の街を練り歩きます。 キリコ祭りは石川県能登地方の住民にとって最も重要な夏祭りと言われていて、毎年祭りの時期には帰省し祭りに参加するしきたりなのだそうです。 特に宮神輿は一年を通じて石川県能登地方の祭りに参加し、貢献した担ぎ手だけが持つことを許されている特別な神輿です。 あばれ神輿の歴史と日本神話のつながり 江戸時代にかけて石川県周辺の能登地方は日本海に面した海上交通の要所でした。 加賀百万石と称された金沢を有し人の往来が絶えない豊かな地域でしたが、降水量が多くたびたび疫病の流行に悩まされていました。 そこで本格的に疫病が流行る前にキリコに魔を封じ、炎で清めたのがキリコ祭りの始まりと言われています。 昔から八坂神社では無病息災の祈祷が行われてきたのですが、肝心の宮神輿にまで悪鬼が取り付いてしまったので、神輿を乱舞させ地面に叩きつけ病魔ごと葬ったというのが神輿の扱いに関する由来です。 八坂神社の御祭祀、素戔嗚命（スサノオのミコト）は神仏習合により牛頭天王と同一格となり、京都八坂神社の祇園社信仰と結びつき、全国に広がりました。 素戔嗚命はヤマタノオロチを退治したことでも有名な日本神話を代表する神様で仏教では薬師如来が同格です。 このため、無病息災、悪鬼退散などのご利益があると言われています。 石川県能登に伝わる日本の伝統「あばれ祭り」のまとめ 石川県能登に伝わる日本の伝統奇祭「あばれ祭り」は1997年に「能登のキリコ祭り」として国から「無形民俗文化財」に指定され、その後2015年に文化庁から日本遺産の最初の18件の1つに選ばれました。 動画では2016年に行われた迫力ある祭りの模様を紹介しています。 来年はあなたも浴衣や、はっぴで石川県能登の「あばれ祭り」に足を運んでみませんか？ 日程やイベント情報、当日の駐車場情報は「能登町観光ガイド」でご確認ください。

Osaka's Danjiri Festival: The Most Dangerous Festival in Japan? This video [2019 Danjiri Festival's Accidents and Unexpected Events]（令和元年　だんじり祭り　事故＆ハプニング集） is a video summarizing events that took place during Osaka's traditional Danjiri Festival. During the Danjiri festival, Danjiri festival floats are pulled along the streets at amazing speeds. They fly past the front of people's homes at full speed grazing street lights and barely avoiding crashes but unfortunately accidents do occur from time to time. This video contains a collection of exciting footage from the Danjiri festival, including accidents and other shocking scenes. Please enjoy the thrilling footage! What Is the Danjiri Festival? Source :YouTube screenshot The Danjiri festival is a traditional religious festival held in Kishiwada, Osaka in the Kansai region of Japan. It dates back to the Edo period (1603–1868AD) and originates from the shrine lanterns of the time. There are several Danjiri festivals held in the central area of the Kinki region of Japan: Kishiwada Danjiri Festival, Haruki Danjiri Festival, Kobe Danjiri Festival and Sakai Danjiri Festival to name a few. The Danjiri Festival is held every year to pray for a good harvest and attracts many viewers keen to take a look at the exciting event. The wooden floats decorated with beautiful carvings are pulled around the town on ropes and considered by many to be works of art. Accidents Are Unavoidable During the Festival? Source :YouTube screenshot Accidents and unexpected events happen almost every year during Osaka's Danjiri festival. This video contains footage of the festival floats toppling over, crashing into lamp posts and other dangerous accidents due to the high speed they are being pulled around at. A method called "Yarimawashi" (やりまわし) used to help the floats turn right-angled street corners at high speed is one of the most thrilling and suspenseful moments of the festival. Accidents are particularly prone to happening on rainy days or during the darker hours of the evening. This can be seen at 2:57, 3:18, 6:23 and 8:14 in the video. Some years accidents are so dangerous that they have unfortunately resulted in death. Source :YouTube screenshot The highlight of this video has to be at 13:36 when one of the floats crashes into a street light which breaks and falls over. You can feel just how terrifying that must have been! Again at 14:50 you can see a float crash into a street curb and topple over. There are also many moments when the floats shake violently from side to side and come close to toppling over, occasionally actually falling over in front of spectators. Attending even as a spectator can put your life at risk! As you've probably noticed from the video at 5:45, 6:45, and 7:08, those pulling the floats cannot let go of the ropes even if they fall over and as a result end up being dragged along the street. The reason being, is that there is a danger of being trampled by the float if one let's go of the ropes, therefore there is a rule that one must hold onto the rope no matter what. Danjiri Festival Summary Source :YouTube screenshot We hope you enjoyed our video compilation of the thrilling events that take place during the Danjiri fesival. With serious accidents being a regular occurrence, it's safe to say that the Danjiri festival is one of the most dangerous festivals in Japan. Even so, every year many visitors come to watch and take part in the festival. There are many food stands and the large number of spectators make this is a very lively and exciting festival! ◆Kishiwada Danjiri Festival Introduction Summary◆ 【Event date】Every year in the middle of August 【Access】JR Kishiwada station (JR岸和田駅, JR Kishiwadaeki) or JR Haruki station (JR春木駅, JR Harukieki) 【Official Website】Kishiwada Danjiri Festival https://translate.google.co.jp/translate?hl=ja&sl=ja&tl=en&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.city.kishiwada.osaka.jp%2Fsite%2Fdanjiri%2F 【Tripadvisor】Danjiri Festival (September festival) https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1023471-d10019374-r362673132-Danjiri_Matsuri_September-Kishiwada_Osaka_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Miyakojima's Paantu! This video is titled "Miyakojima Shimajiri Paantu 2018 Unesco World Cultural Heritage." (宮古島・島尻パーントゥ2018　UNESCO World cultural heritage). It introduces the traditional festival in Miyakojima, Okinawa, "Paantu." During the festival, supernatural gods called Paantu wear masks and chase out evils to bring luck to the villagers. The traditional event is held in two locations in Miyakojima: the Hirano Shimajiri region and the Ueno Nohara region. Each location has its differences. In 1982, both events were selected as Intangible folk cultural properties, and in 1993, they were designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Assets. "Raihojin," (ritual visits of deities in masks and costumes) was added to UNESCO’s intangible folk cultural asset list in 2018. Paantu and Satupunaha Source :YouTube screenshot According to the local history records, the origin of the word "Paantu" is a combination of two words "Paan"(to eat) and "Pitu" (people). It has the meaning of a ghost or a demon. "Satupunaha" (wishes for home) of Shimajiri, Miyakojima takes place three times a year. Paantu is an event that takes place at the third event and it is called Paantu Satupunaha or Paantu Punaha. It was originally held on the "lucky day" (an unspecified day of the month) of the ninth month of the lunar calendar, but now it is held in October. Paantu’s appearance is similar to Namahage, another spiritual creature in Japan. Local young adult men are chosen to become Paantu and there are three roles available (Uya, Naka and Fufa). Check out the video at 0:06 to see what the Paantu look like. The three chosen men wear ivy grass called "Shionokikazura" and apply mud from the bottom of a well called "Nmarigah," which The Nmarigah is located in the vicinity of Miyajima Elementary School, and the mud is smeared on people and houses in the pantu. Children cry and scream and the smell of the mud is so bad that it cannot be removed for several days. You can see the children screaming and crying at 0:14, and teenagers running away at 1:21. Paantu even smear mud on the police car at 1:27. Playing Tag With the Gods Source :YouTube screenshot Local people explain that this event is like playing tag with the gods. The event is loved by the local people, and it's considered lucky to get muddy, as the mud will keep bad spirits away thank to its horrible smell. At first glance, it looks scary, as you see the whole village running away, but when you see the smiling faces of the villagers after being covered with mud, you'll understand the beauty of the festival. In recent years, the festival has been in danger of being cancelled due to complaints of being dirtied and problems with the festival causing trouble. Paantu would smear mud on everyone, including tourists, elderly people, police, and little children. However, the event is very important for the local people as it helps to drive out demons and cleanse the island of bad luck. Therefore, this event still continues and only people who can accept this event should participate this event. Source :YouTube screenshot Please be aware that if you are visiting Shimajiri, Miyakojima during the festival, you WILL get muddy. If you would like to know more about this event, you can also visit the Miyakojima City Museum. At this facility, you can learn about the history of Paantu and Miyakojima. You can also wear Paantu masks and take pictures. The mask is said to have washed ashore on the coast of Miyakojima Island more than a hundred years ago, wrapped in kuba leaves. Summary of Paantu Source :YouTube screenshot Are you looking forward to Paantu? The unique culture of Miyakojima, a remote island, brings many visitors to the island every year. Special goods and T-shirts are also sold, and they help stimulate the local economy, so if you're looking for souvenirs to commemorate your trip, don't miss out on them! Bisit Shimajiri, Miyakojima and have a fun-filled experience in the mud! 【Tripadvisor】City of Miyakojima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g680765-Miyakojima_Okinawa_Prefecture-Vacations.html

The Traditional Ako Lion Dance! This video, produced by "Ako Channel - The Official Video Channel of Ako City," is an official PR video titled, "Ako Lion Dance - Western Nitta Lion Dance Preservation Society" (赤穂の獅子舞「新田西部獅子舞保存会」). There are various regional events and festivals in autumn every year in Ako, Hyogo in Japan's Kansai Region. The Ako Lion Dance, performed by the members of the Western Nitta Lion Dance Preservation Society (新田西部獅子舞保存会), is especially popular as it is vigorous and has a long history in the area. The Ako Lion Dance parades through the approaches to shrines and temples. Take in the traditional Japanese atmosphere through the video, which shows the lion dance, a traditional cultural event in Ako in the fall. Don't Miss the Dynamic Movement of the Ako Lion Dance! Source :YouTube screenshot The Autumn Festival of Hiyoshi Shrine in Nitta District is held annually in October in Ako City, Hyogo Prefecture. During this lively festival, the Ako Lion Dance, performed by the Western Nitta Lion Dance Preservation Society, parades throughout the city. The festival begins with the "welcome of the gods"(0:19). A mischievous wild lion is skillfully led by a Tengu, a sort of Japanese goblin often found in folk tales. At 0:41, after “the purification of the lion head and Tengu mask” takes place, it's time to leave for "Hanamai," which parades through the city of Ako (0:53). "Hanamai" continues to visit over 200 places while performing to the sound of the drum. The lion dance at Hiyoshi Shrine is performed by Western Nitta District and Nitta Village alternately each year. The one seen in the video is performed by Western Nitta District. The highlight of the festival is "dochu mai" (1:58); while the rituals are being performed at Hiyoshi Shrine, the lion dance troupe takes its time to move along the approach to the shrine. After the ritual is over, they run up to the worship hall and the dedication dance begins. The Ako Lion Dance is descended from Ako Hachiman Shrine in Ozaki Districtand is characterized by slow movements during "dochu mai" and intense movements during the dedication dance at the main shrine. The Western Nitta Lion Dance Preservation Society performs a dance with a skit called "Niwaka."(2:55). So Much to See and Do at the Ako Autumn Festival! Source :YouTube screenshot In addition to the lion dance dedication by the Western Nitta Lion Dance Preservation Society, various events are held in Ako, such as an exorcism ritual and a children's mikoshi (portable shrine). The Western Nitta Lion Dance Preservation Society is not the only performer of Ako Lion Dance. There are many other organizations, such as Kamihamaichi and the Kizu Lion Preservation Society, that performs the dance as well. The lion dance of the Kamihamaichi Lion Preservation Society, known for its Hanamai and group dances, and the lion dance of the Kizu Lion Dance Preservation Society, which prays for purification and a good harvest, are also worth seeing. During the Autumn Festival in Ako, there are many stalls along the streets of shrines and temples. One of the ways to enjoy Ako's Autumn Festival is to eat local Japanese food at the stalls. Summary of the Ako Lion Dance The Ako Lion Dance is an important traditional ritual, and the Western Nitta Lion Dance Preservation Society has long been honing their skills to preserve the culture. Succession of traditional culture is a significant theme of traditional Japanese festivals. Visit the Ako Autumn Festival and experience Japanese culture through vigorous lion dances! 【Official Website】Ako Tourism - FEEL AKO TIME https://ako-kankou.jp/en/

The Popular Awa Odori Dance Festival of Tokushima This video, titled "AWA ODORI - IS JAPAN COOL? MATSURI - Festival (Awa Odori Dance Festival/Tokushima)" (AWA ODORI - IS JAPAN COOL? MATSURI - 祭 （阿波踊り／徳島）), was uploaded by ANA Global Channel. It introduces the Awa Odori Dance Festival of Tokushima. Among the various festivals held in Japan throughout the year, Tokushima's Awa Odori Dance Festival is one of the most famous and popular festivals among Japanese people. In this article, we'll introduce the origins and history of the Awa Odori Dance Festival, as well as some nearby tourist attractions! The History of the Awa Odori Dance Festival Photo：Taiko drums at Awa Odori, Tokushima Prefecture The Awa Odori Dance Festival is a festival with a history dating back more than 400 years in Tokushima, which was once referred to as Awa Province. The festival's history dates back to the Edo Period (1603-1868) when indigo merchants in the Awa Province enjoyed the entertainment of geisha. After the Meiji Period (1868-1912), the content of the dance became gradually more refined. If you want to learn more about the history of the Awa Odori Dance Festival, we recommend visiting Awaodori Kaikan, a museum in the center of Tokushima City. More About the Awa Odori Dance Festival Photo：Awa Odori, Tokushima Prefecture Bon dances and festivals are held in many parts of Japan during the Obon season. The Awa Odori Dance Festival in Tokushima is one of the bon festival events, and is called "Awa no Bon Odori." It is held from August 12th to 15th every year. The scale of the event is so large that it is considered one of the three major Bon Dances in Japan and one of the three major festivals of Shikoku (the smallest of Japan’s major islands). More than 100,000 dancers participate in the Awa Odori Dance Festival, and over a million visitors come to the festival each year. From just the sheer number of visitors, it's easy to understand that it's a popular festival that represents Japanese culture. Feel the Heat of the Awa Odori Dance Festival! Photo：Awa Odori, Tokushima Prefecture As you can see at 8:26 in the video, the music of Tokushima's Awa Odori uses traditional Japanese instruments, such as drums, gongs, flutes, and shamisen. The people who join the dance wear kimono or yukata, braided hats, geta (wooden clogs) and carry lanterns. There are two types of dances, men's dance and women's dance, be sure to watch both as they're quite different. At the end of the festival, more than 1,000 people dance in unison, and the streets are filled with music and cheering. If you want to experience the power of the festival with a good view, we recommend purchasing bleacher seats, like the ones shown in the video. By joining the "Niwaka-ren" dance group on the day of the festival, you can have a blast dancing at the festival! This can be seen at 11:18 in the video. Summary of Tokushima's Awa Odori Dance Festival Photo：Awa Odori, Tokushima Prefecture The Awa Odori Dance Festival is a traditional festival that shows us the beauty of Japan through traditional performing arts. There's a saying in Japanese that goes “Odoru aho ni miru aho, onaji aho nara odoranya son son” (踊る阿呆にみる阿呆、同じ阿呆なら踊らにゃ損々), which roughly translates to "If the dancer is a fool, so too then is the spectator, so why not everybody dance?!" Joining in the Awa Odori Dance Festival will make for an unforgettable experience! 【Tripadvisor】Awa Odori https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298236-d10019439-Reviews-Awa_Odori-Tokushima_Tokushima_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

A Tourist Enjoys Her Time in Japan Wearing a Yukata [Awa Odori]: Video Introduction This video, titled "Japan's Culture : Russian Lady Dreamed About "Awa Odori in Yukata(Summer Kimono) First Festival.," was uploaded by "youmemeyou tokushima." It introduces Awa Odori, a traditional Japanese festival. The video features a Russian woman who learned about Japan through watching anime and fulfilled her dream of wearing a yukata at a Japanese festival. Various food stalls lined up along the river, rows of lanterns, and the exciting Awa Odori dance are just a few of the many photogenic shots throughout the video. Awa Odori is one of the most popular festivals in Japan, and can be enjoyed by men and women of all ages, and even by foreign travelers. Be sure to follow along as you watch the video! Awa Odori - 400 Years of This Traditional Japanese Dance Photo：Awa Odori There are various theories as to the origin of Awa Odori, including Nenbutsu Odori from Japan's Kamakura period, Furyu Odori from the late Warring States period, and celebratory events held at the time of the construction of Tokushima Castle. In any case, Awa Odori has taken root among the citizens and has been passed down through the generations, even overcoming frequent bans. Awa Odori is known as one of Japan's traditional performing arts. One of the three major Bon Odori dances in Japan, Awa Odori attracts approximately 1.3 million people, and there is said to be about 100,000 dancers in groups called ren (連). The dance style is characterized by a male and female version, and various types of Awa Odori can be seen from daytime to nighttime at theaters and other viewing spots. In addition, Awa Odori Kaikan (a museum in Tokushima where visitors can learn about Awa Odori) has been making efforts to accommodate foreign tourists in recent years by providing English- and Chinese-speaking staff at the reception desk. During the Awa Odori Festival, the central area of Tokushima City is filled with lively dancing and excitement, and the many food stalls and lanterns add to the festive atmosphere. [Video] 2:34 - Food Stalls and Lanterns at Awa Odori Gorgeous Costumes and Unique Dancing - Enjoying Awa Odori Photo：Image of Awa Odori Awa Odori can be enjoyed by men and women of all ages and is accompanied by enthusiastic cheering from the crowd. It also features unique costumes and dancing styles for both men and women. The men wear happi coats or yukata in a unique style, and their dynamic performance, called "Otoko Odori," is very lively and exciting to watch. [Video] 0:30 - Otoko Odori "Onna Odori," the women's version, is characterized by elegant and graceful hand gestures and footwork repeated at a mesmerizing tempo. In the video, you can see a woman wearing a happi coat and performing "Otoko Odori." [Video] 0:17 - Women Performing "Otoko Odori" While Wearing Happi Also popular is the "Chibikko Odori," a children's version of the dances. One of the highlights of the performance is the musical accompaniment, which combines instruments, such as shamisen, drums, and flutes, to enliven the dance, and the unique musical style of each dance troupe. The light, two-beat tempo creates a stage where both the dancers and the audience can enjoy a sense of unity. [Video] 0:54 - Audience Members Participating in the Dance Koenji Awa Odori - Enjoy the Awesome Dances Performances in Tokyo Koenji Awa Odor in Tokyo is second in scale only to the Tokushima City Awa Odori and is known as a summer tradition in the area. The event is held every year in late August, and its history dates back to 1957, when it was started as a town revitalization event. The event in the shopping district led to the expansion of the event to surrounding towns and neighborhood associations, and today it is known as "Tokyo's Awa Odori" with 10,000 dancers, attracting many visitors. In addition to dancers from the Tokyo metropolitan area, dancers from Tokushima, the home of Awa Odori, also participate in the festival, adding to the excitement. Summary of Awa Odori, a Dance For Anyone to Enjoy Awa Odori is a popular summer event in Japan that tourists and foreign travelers can enjoy together. In the video, a woman in a yukata from Russia conveys the beauty of Japanese culture through Awa Odori. If you're planning on visiting Japan this summer, we highly recommend checking out Awa Odori, it's a dance that you can both watch and participate in, and will create a lifelong memory of your visit to Japan! ◆Awa Odori 2022◆ Theme: Awa Odori 2022 – A NEW STORY Event Period: Aug. 12 (Fri.) - Aug. 15 (Mon.) ※Aug. 11 (Thurs) Pre-event festival

Cool Japan EXPO in NIIGATA 2022! Cool Japan EXPO in NIIGATA was held at Toki Messe Niigata Convention Center's exhibition hall in Niigata Prefecture on November 5 (Sat.) and 6 (Sun.), 2022. The expo is a gathering of cutting-edge information in all fields related to 'Cool Japan' and is held in Niigata Prefecture. The event allows exhibitors with a variety of products and business solutions to interact with visitors from various industries, professions, and positions. With approximately 175 booths, it's a major gathering of 'Cool Japan' contens from all across the country. This year's Cool Japan Expo in NIIGATA also brought together all manner of genres, from modern cultures, such as anime and video games, to traditional crafts that Japan has long preserved. We, the staff of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, personally attended the event, and in this article, I'll go over the live atmosphere of the event with lots of photos! In the last part of the article, I'll introduce some of the delicious foods and sightseeing spots you can find in Niigata that I enjoyed between interviews, so I hope you stick with me until the end. What is 'Cool Japan'? 'Cool Japan' is a term used in the "Cool Japan Strategy," a brand strategy to achieve economic growth in Japan by capturing international attention through the dissemination of information about the cool things that Japan has to offer, as well as overseas expansion, and inbound tourism promotion. Reference: Wikipedia The Main Genres of Exhibits at Cool Japan EXPO in NIIGATA Cool Japan EXPO in NIIGATA had a large number of booths from a variety of different genres on display. ・Koi ・Sake ・Beer ・Wine and other spirits ・Agricultural products ・Agricultural, forestry, and fishery products ・Manga ・Anime ・Traditional crafts ・Cosplay ・Fireworks ・Embassies ・International companies ・Household goods, interior design, health care, etc. ・Leisure ・Entertainment, lodging, tourism, transportation, hands-on experiences, etc. ・Cosmetics, hair care, etc. ・Manufacturing, craftsmen, etc. ・Clothes, watches, accessories, etc. ・Artists, creators, venture companies, etc. ・Food, beverage, etc. Tsubame-Sanjo Booth at Cool Japan EXPO in NIIGATA: World-Class Traditional Crafts and Metalworking Products At the Tsubame-Sanjo booth "Tsubame Sanjo Factories," 15 companies from the Tsubame-Sanjo area (Gyokusendo (玉川堂), Marunao (マルナオ), Tojiro (藤次郎), Tadafusa (庖丁工房タダフサ, Hocho-Kobo Tadafusa), Mura no Kajiya (村の鍛治屋), Fujinos (フジノス), Yamazaki Kinzoku Kogyo (山崎金属工業), OHIZUMIBUSSAN (大泉物産), TSUBAME BUSSAN (燕物産), Dots and Lines (ドッツアンドラインズ), MGNET, MARUTO HASEGAWA KOSAKUJO (マルト長谷川工作所), As it is, Nakano Kagaku (中野科学), PLUS Y'S (プラスワイズ), and Guardians of the Artisans all gathered at the event. The Tsubame and Sanjo areas of Niigata Prefecture are famous for metalworking, and their products have many overseas fans due to their high quality and functionality. The history of hardware in the Tsubame-Sanjo area of Niigata dates back many years, and the area has flourished as a metalworking and manufacturing town since around the early Edo period (1600 AD). Cool Japan EXPO in NIIGATA featured a variety of metal products, such as kitchen knives, glasses, spoons, etc., and their beauty is simply astonishing. Traditional crafts in the Tsubame and Sanjo areas of Niigata Prefecture have also been introduced in articles by COOL JAPAN VIDEOS. Be sure to take a look at them as well. Video article 4:19 Tsubame-Tsuiki Copperware - A Traditional Craft From Niigata Prefecture That's Been Passed Down for More Than 200 Years! Watch as a Plain Iron Plate Becomes a Beautiful Teapot Through Masterful Craftsmanship! YouTube Cool Japan EXPO in NIIGATA allowed visitors to see the refined skills of artisans at the Niigata Prefecture Traditional Crafts booth At the Niigata Prefecture Traditional Crafts booth, visitors were able to see engravers, maki-e artisans, kazari-shi metalworkers, and other craftsmen performing their work from up close. I couldn't take my eyes off the delicate craftsmanship of the artisans! Beautiful Koi Fish Decorating the Event Site of Cool Japan EXPO in NIIGATA At the opening of the exhibition, beautiful koi of all colors swam in a special booth lit up with lights. The large variety of koi, measuring approximately 90 centimeters long and weighing about 25 kilograms, were a sight to behold. Koi (colored carp) were created through crossbreeding, and the patterns of today's koi emerged in the late Edo period (1800s A.D.). Today, the high-class ornamental fish, also referred to as "living art" or "swimming jewels," has become very popular outside of Japan, especially among wealthy people in Europe and the United States. Overseas exports have increased nearly five-fold in the past 20 years. The birthplace of these globally popular koi, is right here in Niigata. Koi from Niigata have also been introduced in articles by COOL JAPAN VIDEOS. Be sure to take a look at them as well. Video article 4:19 Koi Are Often Called "Swimming Jewels" and "Swimming Art" in Japan... A Look at the Secrets of These Beautiful Aquarium Fish, Including the Different Varieties and Their Characteristics! YouTube Enjoying Some Sake, Wine, and Whiskey From Niigata... Niigata is a major rice-producing region, which means you know it has great sake! There were many booths run by various sake breweries, and enjoying the various tastings was a dream for sake lovers! I was in the midst of covering the event, but couldn't help but do a little tasting myself. Niigata's local spirits include more than just sake! Local beer, wine, whiskey, and gin were also on display at the event. After finishing my work, I enjoyed some drinks along with some delicious delicacies of Niigata! And a bit more sake... Delicious Niigata Delicacies at Food and Beverage Booths at Cool Japan EXPO in NIIGATA The food and beverage booths were lined with shops offering hegi soba, Italian cuisine, ramen, and more. All of the shops attracted many customers, who were eager to taste the delicious flavors of Niigata. I enjoyed a bowl of rice topped with half-cooked salmon roe and totomame-don from Sushi Tokiwa! This was sooo good! The salmon roe totally melts in your mouth. I've never had such a delicious salmon roe bowl before, and I'm not exaggerating! On the second day, I tried a delicious bowl of ramen from the ramen restaurant Suzu to Rin (鈴と凛) topped with mouthwatering slice of char siu. It was a tasty shrimp broth and the strong aroma of the seashore had my stomach growling for seconds! Many Very Popular Entertainers Performed on Stage! The stage set up at the event site was filled with popular entertainers. Main Performances Saturday, November 5, 2022 ・OURIN ・Furumachi Geigi ・RYUTist & courtesea ・CHIBIUNITY ・Shinobu Enami x Furumachi Geigi ・ASHITAKA ・Jonnobi Community Corp. ・Albirex Niigata ・YOUNG CABBAGE ・Nangu & NiigataNeesan Sunday, November 6, 2022 ・Show Aikawa ・The Sato Brothers ・Toshihiko Nakazawa ・Eri Ogawa ・NGT48 ・Hinata & Rafvery ・Jackpot ・Hirokazu Nakamura I saw the popular TV personality OURIN and NGT48 right before my eyes♪ Cool Japan EXPO in NIIGATA – Venue Information Date & Time: November 5 (Sat.) & 6 (Sun.), 2022 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (2 days) Venue: Toki Messe Niigata Convention Center Exhibition Hall Address: Bandaijima 6-1, Chuo-ku, Niigata City 950-0078 Admission: Free Access by train: Approximately 20 minutes from Niigata Station on foot. Official Website: https://cje-niigata.jp/en/ Cool Japan EXPO in NIIGATA – Event Information Cool Japan EXPO in NIIGATA was an event that brought together tradition, culture, sake, gastronomy, entertainment, and other aspects of 'Cool Japan' that can be found in Niigata. The venue was filled with the passion for sharing the attractive culture of Niigata with both other parts of Japan and with people around the world. I had a chance to talk with many of the exhibitors, and although everyone was from a different field, they all shared the same desire to inform more people about the products, goods, and cultures that they have proudly developed. It was chilly in Niigata as it's nearing winter, but the venue was nice and warm! It was such an awesome two-day event. On a final note, here are some photos from the event that I couldn't cover in this article. I Also Enjoyed Sightseeing in Niigata and Some Delicious Local Fish! In between work, I had a chance to do a little sightseeing and enjoy some delicious local fish. This was my first visit to Niigata, so everything during these two days was fresh and exciting! Niigata is all about sake and fish, so I decided to enjoy some delicious sushi and sake! I couldn't get enough of the fresh, mouthwatering fish! I haven't been able to eat out much in the past few years due to the Coronavirus pandemic, but it was totally worth the wait! For lunch on the second day, I had a nodoguro-don (blackthroat seaperch over rice) at Sushi Marui in Niigata City. The bowl of rice topped with a generous helping of seared seaperch was a flavor you could never experience in Tokyo! I highly recommend trying it if you visit Niigata. When I went for a leisurely drive in Niigata City, I stopped by the Sea of Japan, where I was able to see Sado Island in the distance because the weather was so nice. On the way home, I saw many people visiting Niigata Gokoku Shrine for Shichi-Go-San. Near the Cool Japan EXPO in NIIGATA venue, there's also a photogenic "What's NiiGATA" monument! You can buy souvenirs at Minato Marche Pier Bandai! This is a good place to visit when sightseeing in Niigata, as you can enjoy shopping, as well as a variety of different restaurants. You can also buy fresh fish here. The new coronavirus has prevented me from traveling and sightseeing for nearly three years, but going on a trip like this allowed me to spend some much needed time away in an atmosphere far removed from my daily life. Although I was not able to do any "proper" sightseeing, I'm sure I'll be coming back to Niigata after seeing how much it has to offer. I'm definitely looking forward to it!

Izu Kogen Granillumi: Video Introduction This video, titled "What Makes Izu Kogen Granillumi 2021 So Incredible, Explained in 6 Minutes! Watch in [4K】" (6分でわかる！2021伊豆高原グランイルミの凄さ【4K】でご覧下さい), was uploaded by "Hiro Time" (ひろタイム). This video is jam-packed with the best bits from "Izu Kogen Granillumi -7th Season-" (伊豆高原グランイルミ～7thシーズン～) which was held between November 13th 2021 and August 31st 2022. Taking "love" as its theme, the 7th season saw the venue transformed into an ethereal space, with colorful lanterns providing a romantic vibe. Also debuting was "Walk on the Illumi," an attraction that allowed visitors to experience the illuminations from above. We hope you'll enjoy this video of the vibrant Izu Kogen Granillumi -7th Season-! [Video] 2:32 - Strolling Over the Illuminations With "Walk on the Illumi" Izu Granpal Park, Home of Izu Granillumi Photo：Izu Granpal Park The home of Izu Granillumi (Grand Illumination), Izu Granpal Park (伊豆グランパル公園, izu granpal-koen) is a theme park located in Ito, Shizuoka. The park is swathed with greenery, and inside you'll find enough attractions and amusements to keep you occupied all day long. Visitors can stimulate their senses on "KAiZOKU," a gigantic wooden 3D maze shaped like a ship, and feel the exhilaration on "Air Balloon" (エアバルーン, ea barun) and "Family Swing" (ファミリースウィング, famiri suwingu). Ride along "Kaze," (風～KAZE～), a 400 meter long zip-line high above the ground for a thrilling experience! There are plenty of attractions and amusements that are safe for the little ones to play on too. There are even facilities available for your beloved pooch. Not only is there a park where dogs can play off their leash, and attractions that you and your canine comrade can enjoy together, there's also a restaurant that humans and dogs can use together (outdoor seating). Izu Granpal Park has different schedules during daytime and nighttime, so be aware that you'll need to pay separately for the daytime and Izu Kogen Granillumi. There are discounted advance tickets available online, and prepaid cards that can be used on the attractions are also useful, so be sure to take full advantage of them. Izu Kogen Granillumi -8th Season- – Event Dates and Illumination Hours Photo：Izu Kogen Granillumi at Izu Granpal Park, Ito, Shizuoka Izu Kogen Granillumi - 8th Season - will be held in a specially prepared area of Izu Granpal Park. You can check out the opening dates and illumination times below. ・Opening Dates: 11 November 2022 (Fri.) - Late August 2023 ・Illumination Times: December 1st - January 3rd: 4:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. 　　　　　　January 4th - January 31st: 5 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. 　　　　　　February 1st - February 28th: 5.30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. 　　　　　　March 1st - March 31st: 6 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Opening hours change depending on the time of year, so we recommend double checking before heading out. Highlights of Izu Kogen Granillumi -8th Season- [2022 – 2023] Photo：Izu Kogen Granillumi at Izu Granpal Park, Ito, Shizuoka Izu Kogen Granillumi -8th Season- opened on the 11th of November, and there's no shortage of things to see and do here. The event's concept is "A Great Adventure." Evoking this "Great Adventure," the main area of the illuminations is adorned with a depiction of a vast ocean. Whether viewed close up or far away, the visually striking lighting is guaranteed to blow you away. The impressive "Treasure Island" (宝島, takarajima) and "Rose Garden" (薔薇の園, Bara no En) areas shine thanks to an array of three-dimensional lanterns modeled after jewels and roses. You're sure to get some good photos for your Instagram here. Izu Kogen Granillumi is Japan's first ever hands-on illumination event. Thanks to "Walk On the Illumi," which debuted in the 7th season, and Zipline Ryuse (ジップライン～流星RYUSE～), which offers an aerial view of the illuminations, the colorfully lit attractions form an ethereal world of light for visitors to experience. Be sure to check out the three big shows, "Light and Sound," (光と音のショー, hikari to oto no sho), "Full Color Laser Show," (フルカラーレーザーショー, furu kara reza sho) and "Gran Vision Show" (グランビジョンショー, gran bijon sho) as well! [Video] 4:58 - Lights Dancing to the Music Village Izu Kogen – Enjoy a Relaxing Time at This Recommended Accommodation If you're going to be out late enjoying Izu Kogen Granillumi at Izu Granpal Park, why not stay the night in Ito, Shizuoka? Village Izu Kogen is just a 5-minute drive from Izu Granpal Park, and offers views of the ocean from every one of its suites. Cuisine made with ingredients sourced from Ito, an onsen with a great view, and a warm-water pool all add to the holiday resort vibe. The condominium-type hotel has a full set of facilities, including rooms in which your dog can spend the night with you. Enjoy a relaxing time with a special someone (or dog) you care about. Summary of Izu Kogen Granillumi Photo：Izu Kogen Granillumi at Izu Granpal Park, Ito, Shizuoka The illuminations at Izu Kogen Granillumi are held over a long period of more than nine months between fall and summer. Children and adults alike can enjoy these dream-like hands-on illuminations. This is one tourist attraction to throw on your list if you're visiting the popular resort, Izu Kogen. So, head on over with your loved ones and pet pooch and have a great time! ◆Izu Granpal Park◆ 【Address】1090 Futo, Ito, Shizuoka 【Telephone】0557-51-1122 (main) 【Access】※Check the official website for details. Take the Ito Line (伊東線, ito-sen) to Ito Station (伊東駅, ito-eki) from Atami Station (熱海駅, atami-eki), then the Ito Express Line (伊東急行線, ito kyuko-sen) from Ito Station to Ito Kogen Station (伊東高原駅, ito kogen-eki). The park is approximately 20 minutes by bus from Ito Kogen Station. It takes approximately 10 minutes to get to the park from Ito Kogen Station via taxi. 【Official Website】Izo Granpal Park | Izu Shaboten Zoo Group 【TripAdvisor】Izu Granpal Park

Satsuma Heki Ryu Koshiya Kumiyumi This video, titled "Koshiya Kumiyumi, Battlefield Archery Demonstration" (薩摩日置流腰矢組弓 演武), shows a performance of Japanese archery at the World Kyudo Competition. During the Warring States period (1467-1615 A.D.), archery was often used as a martial art on the battlefield. The video shows a powerful archery competition, so you can enjoy a taste of traditional Japanese culture. Satsuma Heki Ryu Koshiya Kumiyumi Photo：Japanese archery Satsuma Heki Ryu Koshiya Kumiyumi (roughly "Satsuma Heki School of Archery"), one of the schools of Japanese archery, was established by Heki Danjo Masatsugu during the Muromachi period (1336-1573 A.D.). However, as guns came to be used in battle, archery gradually came to be neglected. At this time, the Satsuma Heki School continued to study the art of archery while passing on the techniques to its senior apprentices. They devised tactics, such as "Koshiya" and "Sashiya" which were used to form a formation before loosing all arrows at the same time, as well as "Oshitsume" and "Totsugeki." Schools Derived From the Satsuma Heki School The Satsuma Heki School is where Kyudo began and the school has had a strong influence on Japan since the Warring States period. After the Warring States period, the style was divided into various schools of archery derived from the Heki School, and has continued to the present day. The major schools are the Izumo School of the Yamato Heki Line ("Yoshida School"), Yamashina School, Sakon Emon School, Okura School, Insai School, Daishin School, Jutoku School, Sekka School, and Dosetsu School. The Iga-Heki lineage includes the Chikurin School, the Ikkan School, and the Honda school. Other schools, such as the Urakami lineage of the Satsuma Heki Insai School, the Settsu lineage of the Satsuma Heki Insai School, the Heki To School and the Itsumi School are also active. The Satsuma Heki school focuses on the way the bow is held, and the basic shooting technique is to hold the bow diagonally in front of you in a raised motion and then draw the arrows. Each school has its own unique shooting techniques and movements. The Demonstration of the Satsuma Heki School Source :YouTube screenshot The video begins with nine armor-clad performers entering the archery arena. You can see from the video that there are a lot of spectators watching the event. From 0:37 in the video, the performers release their bows one after another with a loud shout. In the performance shown at 2:08 in the video, you can see that after releasing the bow, they gradually move closer towards their targets. This is the formation and method of shooting would have been used on the battlefield in the same way. Summary of Satsuma Heki Ryu Koshiya Kumiyumi's Archery Performance Kyudo is one of the unique Japanese martial arts that developed during the Warring States period. This video shows the powerful demonstration by the Satsuma Heki School of Archery. If you're interested in Japanese martial arts, be sure to check out the awesome form of these iron clad archers!

Introducing "Nouryomatsuri" (Summer Festivals) in Tokyo This video, titled "［4K］Tokyo summer, Bon odori, Tokyo Trip, Tokyo Travel, Tokyo tourism" (［4K］Tokyo summer 夏の東京•納涼祭（夏祭り） 東京観光 盆踊り Bon odori Tokyo Trip Tokyo Travel　Tokyo tourism) is a video about "Nouryoumatsuri" (Tokyo summer festival), produced by Discover Nippon. Japan is colored by the nature of the four seasons. Tokyo is the capital and has many popular sightseeing spots where the past and present intersect. In Japan, there is a tradition of enjoying the coolness of the summer months by making various efforts to avoid the hot weather. The gentle, cool sound of wind chimes and the sprinkling of water along roads and in gardens to relieve the heat have become an ancient Japanese tradition. This is one of those summer festivals that have been passed down throughout Tokyo, and we present it to you with high quality 4K video clips. There are many photogenic and Instagram-worthy spots, such as yukata-clad, colorful and spectacular fireworks displays, goldfish swimming gracefully at food stands, and rows of wind chimes. Nowadays, many foreign tourists come to Japan for these summer festivals, and this article and video will give you information about Japan's most popular summer festivals across the globe. Introduction of Tokyo's Summer Festival "Jindaiji Hozuki Matsuri" Photo：Hozuki We'll start with "Jindaiji hozuki matsuri," introduced at 0:42 in the video. This festival is held at a Jindaiji Temple in Chofu City, Tokyo, where spirits are welcomed with lantern-like "hozuki" decorations. There are stalls such with wind chimes, ground cherries, ramune, dumplings and shaved ice on the approach to the temple, and you can see people wearing Yukata, enjoying themselves at the festival. The sound of the water flowing in the Chozusha provides a cooling effect in the hot Tokyo summer. Introduction to Tokyo's Summer Festival "Asagaya Tanabata Matsuri" Source :YouTube screenshot The next introduction is the "Asagaya Tanabata Matsuri" which can be seen at 1:25 in the video. Colorful Tanabata decorations line the shopping street in front of Asagaya Station. The highlight of the Asagaya Tanabata Festival are the Tanabata decoration of deformed anime characters made with "Haribote" (paper mache)." You can also see characters such as Anpanman in the video from 1:51. Introduction to Tokyo's Summer Festival "Asakusa Hozuki-Ichi" Source :YouTube screenshot Next up is "Asakusa Hozuki-Ichi." This festival is held on July 9th and 10th on Asakusa Nakamise Street, and can be seen from 2:04 in the video. The solanaceae perennial "Hozuki" is written in Kanji as 鬼灯 (devil's lamp). Japan's "oni" (demons) are a scary image, but before Buddhism became popular among the common people, it was believed that human souls would leave their bodies and become oni. In other words, oni were a subject of worship as well as fear. It is said that when the idea of Shinto and Buddhist practices were established, hozuki, whose shape resembled a lantern, were used as a guidepost to guide the souls of ancestors who had turned into souls/oni. Based on the Buddhist belief that the spirits of the dead become Buddhas, Hozuki-ichi was established as a summer evening festival at Sensoji Temple. Many people wear yukata and enjoy shooting games and goldfish scooping, as well as yakisoba and takoyaki, staples of the festival. This "Hozuki-Ichi" has another special meaning as well. It is also known as the "46,000 days" If you visit Sensoji Temple on this day, you will be recognized by the Goddess Kannon for having accumulated 46,000 days of virtue. It's great to be able to gain virture while having fun. Introduction to Tokyo's Summer Festival "Edogawa-Ku Goldfish Matsuri" Next we have the “Edogawa-ku Goldfish Matsuri” which can be seen from 3:05 in the video. At the Goldfish Festival held in July every year in Edogawa-ku, Tokyo, where goldfish farming has been popular since the Meiji period (1868-1912), there's goldfish as far as the eye can see! Various types of goldfish will be on display and for sale, as well as a variety of breeding products, and there's also the very popular luxury goldfish scooping event. Introduction to Tokyo's Summer Festival "Yukatadeginbura" Photo：A couple wearing Yukata The next introduction is “Yukatadeginbura.” It can be seen from 3:51 in the video. Put on a yukata and enjoy "Dai-Ginza Bon-Odori," and "Uchimizu" to help you cool down! Introduction to Tokyo's Summer Festival "Tsukishima / Sumiyoshi Shrine Kagematsuri" The next introduction is “Tsukishima / Sumiyoshi Shrine Kagematsuri” that can be seen from 4:27 of the video. The festival is held for two days on August 6 and 7 every year, and is held once every three years. A boat ride on the Mikoshi (portable shrine) is performed as well. In the video, you can see the parishioners carrying the mikoshi and pouring water over themselves to keep cool. Introduction to Tokyo's Bon Odori "Sugamo Bon Odori Tournament" and "Zojoji / Jizo-son housan Bon Odori Tournament. You can see Bon Odori from 7:06 in the video. Various summer festivals are held in various parts of Japan, and among them, Bon Odori is a very festive summer festival. In recent years, Bon Odori has attracted attention from overseas as a very unique event. Lively music and drums, as well as stalls and yukata, are the standard features of Bon Odori. People dressed in yukata and jinbei form a circle around a Yagura (tower) and dance happily with fans. This is an important part of the festival as you can enjoy the company of your ancestors that have returned to Obon. (It is a time when Buddhists remember people in their family who have died). "Tokyo Ondo" is the most popular Bon dance in Tokyo, but the choreography differs by region. It would be fun to learn how to dance all the Tokyo Ondos in the 23 wards and become a Tokyo Ondo Master. In addition to the Tokyo Ondo, Tokyo's Bon Dancing is also known for its unique theme songs. Songs from “Ikyyu San” based on the monk (Rinzai sect, Ikkyu Sojun) of the Muromachi period (1336 to 1573 AD), as well as world-renowned songs like Living on a Prayer by rock musician Bon Jovi, are used to create a unique experience. Bon Jovi even mentioned it on his twitter page and it was a hot topic for a minute. One of the characteristics of Bon Odori is that it is highly diverse, not bound by tradition. Introduction of Tokyo's Fireworks Displays: "Sumidagawa Fireworks Display" and "Itabashi Fireworks Display" Photo：Fireworks The Sumida River in Tokyo Bay and the Jingu Shrine, which are crowded with people in yukata every year, are also popular places to visit in Tokyo. This can be seen at 9:35 in the video. Did you know that these fireworks have a spiritual meaning as well? The loud noise of fireworks is a deliberate design, and summer was a time when infections and food poisoning were more likely to occur In the Edo period (1603-1867), when medicine was not as advanced as it is today. The loud sound of fireworks was used to exorcise evil and bring good health. It is said that prayers were made at the beginning of the fireworks display. It is said that the origin of the ceremony comes from the practice of beating drums when paying a visit to a shrine, and the beating of drums at festivals and Bon Odori. Fireworks festivals are held all over the country, and many people enjoy the colorful fireworks in the summer's night sky. Introduction of Tokyo's Summer Festival "Mitama Matsuri" “Mitama Matsuri,” introduced at 12:04 in the video, is a festival held at Yasukuni Shrine in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, to memorialize the souls of those lost in the war. It began in 1947. More than 30,000 large and small lanterns and Bonbori (paper lanterns) decorate the grounds of the temple, and the whole area is colored gold. Introduction to Tokyo's Summer Festival "Nogawa Lantern Sinking" Introduced at the end of this video is the "Nogawa Lantern Sinking." You can see it from 12:22. The Nogawa Lantern Sinking is a festival held in Choufu City, Tokyo, but the Japanese event "Toronagashi" (Lantern floating), in which lanterns made of Japanese paper are floated into the river and the sea to mourn the souls of the deceased, is held not only in Tokyo, but also in other parts of Japan. Like “Nouryo Matsuri,” this one, too, is one of Japan's summer traditions. Summary of the Nouryo Matsuri and Summer festival in Tokyo As summer approaches, posters and illustrations of summer festivals are posted on the bulletin boards of shopping streets and stations, people are seen in yukata, and when you hear the sounds of the music and the shouts of the portable shrines and floats from the streets, you know that summer has finally arrived. Many festivals were introduced in this video, but don't forget to check online articles and magazines for the schedules of events, including times and locations, as Tokyo hosts many more popular summer festivals! Some of the other popular summer festivals and events in Tokyo are listed below. ・ Asakusa Sanja Festival: Sensoji Temple, Taito-ku ・ Azabu Juban Festival: Azabu Juban, Minato-ku ・ Awa Odori: Koenji , Suginami-ku ・ Shinjuku Eisa Festival: Shinjuku Shinju-ku ・ Asakusa Samba Carnival: Asakusa International Street, Taito-ku ・ Iriya Sagao Matsuri: Iriya, Taito-ku Enjoy the summer atmosphere of Tokyo in this high quality 4K video of Tokyo's Summer Festivals. Tokyo, a popular tourist spot where past and present intersect, has a ton of traditional festivals that have been passed down since the good old days of Japan!

Introduction the "Oni Banishing Ritual" Held at the Popular Sightseeing Destination, Iwashimizu Hachimangu in Kyoto "Kyoto Festival: Spring Ogre Purification (Oni Yarai Shinji) [4K]" uploaded by "Discover Kyoto," introduces the "Oni Banishing Ritual" which is held every year at Iwashimizu Hachimangu in Kyoto. Iwashimizu Hachimangu, located in southwest Kyoto (Yawata, Kyoto), a popular sightseeing spot in Japan, is a historical shrine with many highlights. There are ten buildings there, including the grounds of the shrine and the main shrine which have been designated National Treasures, and many National Cultural Properties. It is also one of three great Hachimangu Shrines in Japan. You are able to feel Japan, by just walking around the shrine. This article introduces the Oni Banishing Ritual "Oni Yarai Shinji," a type of Setsubun held every year on the Sunday before February 3rd at Iwashimizu Hachimangu, as well as sightseeing and general Setsubun information. As you can see from 2:24 in the video, beans are thrown at oni while people shout "Oni yaro." After the oni are driven out of the shrine they run away. Finally, fukumame (good luck beans) are thrown into the crowd signifying that the shrine has been cleansed. The video will make you want to perform some oni exorcisms of your own! What's the Event Like? Source :YouTube screenshot The origins of Setsubun derive from "Tsuinashiki," an event to drive off evil spirits on New Year's Eve and at the change of seasons to drive away evil spirits. The common chant you'll hear among onlookers is "Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi!," (Demons out, fortune in!) while throwing the beans. It's also good luck to eat as many beans as your age. In some areas, it's also common to hang a sardine with its head skewered on a holly branch on your doorstep as a charm and to eat ehomaki while facing the "lucky direction" without speaking. The "Oni Banishing Ritual" is held every year on Sunday before February 3rd at Iwashimizu Hachiman in Kyoto, from 1pm and 2pm. A priest who exorcises evil enters and shoots in all directions with a bow made of peach branches. Next, he uses a sword made of peach branches to strike in all directions, saying "oni yaro!" This can be seen from 0:58 in the video. From there, the standard Japanese red and blue oni with clubs come and shout to scare children. The priest and others stand in front of the main building as the oni try to rush forward, but the beans are thrown at them and they're sent tumbling down the slope over and over again. Eventually, the oni give up and run away. Afterwards, beans in small packages are given to the visitors. You can see the event taking place starting from 1:30 in the video. Sightseeing Information Photo：A priestess holding a Kagura bell To get to the shrine, take the Keihan Line from Kyoto Station, ride about 30 minutes and get off at Iwashimizu Hachimangu Station. From there, transfer to the Otokoyama Cable Car and get off at Hachimangu-sanjo Station at the top of Otokoyama and walk for 5 minutes. You can also walk instead of using the cable car. There are parking areas as well. Summary The video “Kyoto Festival: Spring Oni Purification (Oni Yarai Shinji) [4K]” introduces the "Oni Banishing Ritual" event during Setsubun, held at Iwashimizu Hachimangu. You can learn about Setsubun rituals and beliefs in the video, so be sure to check it out. 【Tripadvisor】Iwashimizu Hachimangu https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023398-d1901742-Reviews-Iwashimizu_Hachimangu-Yawata_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Kyoto Yamashina Gishi Matsuri - A Celebration of Japanese History This video, titled "Kyoto Festival: 47 Rōnin March (Gishi Matsuri) [4K]," was produced by "Discover Kyoto." Yamashina, located in the western area of Japan’s ancient capital Kyoto, is a small basin surrounded by rich natural scenery and mountains on three sides. Here, there is a festival related to Ako Roshi, or the 47 Ronin, famous from Chushingura. That festival is the Kyoto Yamashina Gishi Matsuri (festival), introduced in the video. Chushingura is well known among Japanese people. Although there are many places in Tokyo related to Chushingura, such as Edo Castle, Lord Kira's Residence, and Sengakuji Temple, there is a scene called Act 9: Yamashiro Kankyo no Ba (Yamashiro's Retreat) in "Kanadehon Chushingura," which is a script of Ningyo Joruri (a Japanese puppet show) and Kabuki, and the story’s setting is in Kyoto. This is the land where one of the key members of Chushingura, Oishi Kuranosuke, lived in hiding until he was killed, so there are many so there are many historical sites associated with the 47 Ronin. Because of this historical connection, "Yamashina Gishi Matsuri” is held on December 4 every year, where a procession of the samurai troops in their battle costumes parades through the town (video 1:12), and reenactments of Chushingura’s famous "Ninjo Matsu no Roka," "Seppuku," "Renbanjo Aratame," "Raid, "Oishi Ondo" (video 2:50-) as well as the "Genroku Hanami Dance" by women, liven up the festival. Enjoy the video of Kyoto's Yamashina Gishi Matsuri, which will have you feeling as though you've traveled back in time to the Edo period! The Parade Course of Kyoto's Yamashina Gishi Matsuri Source :YouTube screenshot In front of the main hall of Bishamon-do, there is a departure ceremony early in the morning that all members attend. This can be seen in the video at 0:55. The group, dressed as Oishi Kuranosuke and his loyalists, departs from Bishamon-do and walk through the area to Ako Oishi Shrine via the Kyoto City Tobu Culture Hall. Bishamon-do, where the 47 Ronin depart from, is a temple of the Tendai sect of Buddhism that enshrines Bishamonten In fact, this Bishamon-do plays an important role in the Chushingura story. The treatment of the 47 Ronin after killing Kira Kozukenosuke was complicated and opinions were divided in the Bakufu (government). Troubled by this, Tokugawa Tunayoshi, the shogun at the time, asked Kōben-hosshinnō his opinions on the matter. Koben recognized the allegiance of 47 Ronin, but at the same time, told Tsunayoshi that giving death is also a mercy. They were ordered to commit seppuku (ritual suicide), and it is said that their bodies were buried in Sengakuji Temple in Tokyo. Therefore, with the advice from Koben, the warriors' were able to fulfill their duties, and Bishamon-do became the starting point of the Yamashina Gishi Matsuri parade. Incidentally, the present Bishamon-do was moved to the grounds of Anshoji Temple in 1665, after it was abolished during the Onin War. Access to Bishamondo, the starting point of Yamashina Gishi Matsuri, is a 20-minute walk from JR Yamashina Station. The History of the Yamashina Gishi Matsuri in Kyoto, and Access to the Area Photo：Kyoto・Bishamon-do Yamashina, Kyoto is a famous sightseeing place in Japan, with rich natural scenery and many historical locations. Yamashina Gishi Matsuri is an event related to Chushingura, but there are other famous places, such as Zuishinin where the female poet Ono no Komachi, who was active in Heian period (794-1185), lived, and the area is also the where the ancestors of Murasaki Shikibu lived. Arashiyama and Kiyomizudera Temple are famous places to view the autumn foliage in Kyoto They're also great for learning about the history of Japan, so be sure to check them out if you have the chance. It takes about 5 minutes to get to JR Yamashina Station from Kyoto Station. It's usually very crowded on the day of the event, and it is difficult to find a parking space, so we recommend using public transportation. Summary of Kyoto's Yamashina Gishi Matsuri Source :YouTube screenshot The Yamashina Gishi Matsuri Photo Contest is also held on the day of Yamashina Gishi Matsuri. Besides the 47 Ronin parade, there are many highlights such as Gomataki, which is introduced at 2:11 in the video. This traditional festival, which tells the story of Japan's historical romance, is something you don't want to miss! Enjoy the heroic ranks of the 47 Ronin, dressed for battle, in 4K!

秋田県能代市の能代七夕紹介動画 こちらの動画は「能代七夕「天空の不夜城」」が公開した「[ 4K Ultra HD ]秩父夜祭り 2016 Chichibu Night Festival ‘Chichibu Yomatsuri’ (3-axis gimbal stabilizer)」です。 「日本らしい景観を見られるお祭りに参加したい」 日本にはさまざまな伝統的なお祭りがあり、それぞれで特徴があります。 そのなかでも日本らしい絶景を鑑賞できる祭りに参加したいと思っている方はいらっしゃいませんか？ 今回は秋田県能代市で行われている能代七夕（天空の不夜城）を紹介します。 秋田県能代市の能代七夕は絶景を楽しみたい方におすすめ 能代七夕（天空の不夜城）は、秋田県の能代市で行われている伝統的な七夕のお祭り。 毎年、8月に開催されているお祭りで、多くの観光客が訪れる人気のイベントです。 能代七夕は田楽やお囃子、太鼓と一緒に城郭型の大きな灯籠を引いて町のなかを運行していくのが特徴。 とても豪華な灯籠は見るものを圧倒させます。 このお祭りでしか見ることができない景勝を楽しみましょう。 秋田県能代市の能代七夕の美しい灯籠 秋田県能代市の伝統的なお祭りである能代七夕の灯籠の特徴は、人の何倍もある大きさがあげられます。 大型灯籠の「嘉六」は、高さが17.6メートルもあり、豪華絢爛の灯籠になっています。 「喜六」の天守閣には巨大な鯱が据えられています。 色鮮やかな灯りを放ち、夜空の下で浮かび上がる灯籠の景色はとても魅力的。 灯籠として日本一の高さを誇る「愛季」は、高さが24.1メートルもある巨大な灯籠です。 見た目もとても美しく、インスタ映えする景色を楽しめます。 天空の不夜城はお囃子も魅力的 日本の伝統的な祭りである能代七夕は、日本らしい風情のあるお囃子を聞くことができます。 笛や太鼓、摺り鉦などの音色が、心を穏やかにしてくれます。 大型灯籠の山車行事にお囃子の穏やかな音色が合わさり、とても日本らしい雰囲気を味わえるお祭りになります。 秋田県の能代七夕紹介まとめ 日本らしい絶景を楽しめる秋田県の能代七夕（天空の不夜城）。 音頭上げから始まる七夕灯籠はとても迫力があり美しく、是非皆様におすすめしたいお祭りとなっています。

伏見稲荷神社の本宮祭りの紹介 こちらの動画は「Kyoto Fan」が公開した「Gion Matsuri in HD - Yasaka Shrine Events」です。 こちらの動画は伏見稲荷神社の本宮祭りにおける和太鼓パフォーマンスを紹介します。 京都造形芸術大学生による迫力ある和太鼓と、伏見稲荷神社の本宮祭りの夏祭りの雰囲気が日本文化を象徴します。 伏見稲荷神社の本宮祭り 京都にある伏見稲荷神社は正式には伏見稲荷大社といい、そこで毎年7月に本宮祭りと呼ばれる祭事が行われます。 この伏見稲荷神社の本宮祭りには毎年多くの参拝者が訪れ、和太鼓の演奏や盆踊りなどの日本文化を楽しむ人がたくさんです。 伏見稲荷神社の大夏祭り 伏見稲荷神社の夏祭りには2つの大きな夏祭りがあり、一つはこの動画で紹介されている本宮祭りもう一つは宵宮祭となっています。 どちらの夏祭りにも大量の提灯が灯され、夜はライトアップのような美しい光景になります。 特に本宮祭りでは最寄り駅である奈良線稲荷駅からの参道・千本鳥居・境内・本社・キツネにいたるまで多くの提灯が灯されます。 伏見稲荷神社の楼門の大提灯 伏見稲荷神社の提灯の中でも特に必見なのが、楼門に設置される大提灯です。 これは本宮祭り・宵宮祭のどちらの夏祭りでも設置され、人気のスポットとなっています。 動画の後半でも美しく赤く光る大提灯が映されていますので、ぜひ御覧ください。 京都造形芸術大学生による和太鼓演奏 提灯が映える夏祭りに色を添えるのが、京都造形芸術大学生による和太鼓の演奏です。 毎年伏見稲荷神社境内において和太鼓の演奏を行い、日本文化の普及に努めています。 また提灯の並ぶ参道と、和太鼓のリズムが神妙な雰囲気を醸し出すとともに学生の若さや情熱を込めた和太鼓の演奏をご覧になれます。 伏見稲荷神社夏祭りの盆踊り 伏見稲荷神社の本宮祭り当日は日本文化の盆踊りに参加することができます。 盆踊りは日本の各所で夏祭りのイベントとして実施されています。 伏見稲荷神社の本宮祭り紹介まとめ 伏見稲荷神社の本宮祭りをご紹介いたしました。 動画を通じて、心躍る夏祭りと和太鼓の音色によって作られた日本文化と雰囲気を感じてください！

The Sapporo Snow Festival, One of Hokkaido's Most Popular Winter Festivals This article features a video from nippon.com, titled "Hokkaido Sapporo Snow Festival: Colorful snow and ice art with digital technology" (北海道「さっぽろ雪まつり」：雪と氷の芸術がデジタル技術で色彩豊かに). The Sapporo Snow Festival shown in the video is a large-scale event that represents the long, harsh winter in Hokkaido. In fact, it is one of the three largest snow festivals in the world and is very popular overseas, attracting many visitors to Japan every year. It's a winter festival that truly represents Japan and is also recognized around the world. Odori Park, on the main street of Sapporo, is lined with snow sculptures of various sizes, and in recent years, a new way of exhibiting them together with projection mapping has become incredibly popular. At night, the streets of Sapporo are lit up with snow sculptures, and during the festival, the city is covered with the colors of the Sapporo Snow Festival. An Overview of the Sapporo Snow Festival, Its Features, and Highlights! Source :YouTube screenshot This video shows the 2019 Sapporo Snow Festival, named "Susukino Ice World 2019." The Sapporo Snow Festival is an event with a long history that celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2019. What makes the Sapporo Snow Festival so special is that it has the snow sculptures of people who stood out from the crowd that year, such as Naomi Osaka, the first Japanese athlete to achieve such incredible feats in tennis. There's also Helsinki Cathedral and other large-scale snow sculptures. The biggest highlight of the 2019 Sapporo Snow Festival was the artworks made with AR (Augmented Reality) and other digital technology. The large horse racing snow sculpture (5-chome East Snow Square), which can be seen from 0:47 in the video, and at 1:12 of the video, you can see a collaboration snow statue of Hatsune Miku and Kasumi Toyama (4-chome STV Square). Let's now take a look at some of the highlights of other venues in the order they appear in the video. [0:22～] Shiroi Koibito PARK AIR Jumping Hill [0:31～] Food stalls at the 6-Chome Citizens' Square Food Park [0:40～] RED BEAR (a popular freight train of Muroran Railway) at the 8-chome snow HTB Square [1:00～] Skating rink in front of 1-chome J:COM Square [1:29～] Susukino Site illuminated with lights As shown in the video, the Sapporo Snow Festival takes place at several venues simultaneously. There are also various other snow attractions and Hokkaido gourmet treats to be found around the venue! In addition, from early February every year, tours of several snow sculptures across Japan are organized. The History of the Sapporo Snow Festival, a Popular Event With Overseas Travelers Source :YouTube screenshot The Sapporo Snow Festival is said to have started in 1950, when local students from middle school and high school made six snow sculptures. It attracted huge attention as a very popular event with approximately 50,000 people coming to see the snowball fight and carnival, and it has become a regular winter event in Sapporo, growing larger with each passing year. In 1959, the Self-Defense Forces participated for the first time. 2,500 Self-Defense Force personnel were mobilized to create a large and elaborate snow sculpture. The sculpture was entered in the International Snow Sculpture Contest and received coverage from foreign news outlets, which led to the Sapporo Snow Festival being recognized as a global winter festival. Nowadays, the charm of the Sapporo Snow Festival is widely known in English through video sites such as YouTube, and it has become a major event that attracts many international visitors every year. The history and materials related to the Sapporo Snow Festival are displayed at the Sapporo Snow Festival Museum located at Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill in Sapporo. Summary of the Sapporo Snow Festival, a Winter Tradition in Sapporo, Hokkaido Source :YouTube screenshot In 2019 and 2020, efforts to introduce the culture and history of the Ainu, an indigenous originating in northern Japan, began. The 1.5-kilometer-long Sapporo Snow Festival 2019 featured a traditional Ainu food experience restaurant and FEEL AINU STAGE, where visitors could dress up in traditional Ainu clothing. For the latest information about the upcoming Sapporo Snow Festival, please visit the official website of the Sapporo Snow Festival at the Tsudome (Sapporo Community Dome) website. ※The above information is based on information from the website as of 2020. 【Official Website】Sapporo Snow Festival Official Website https://www.snowfes.com/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Sapporo Snow Festival https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298560-d8820354-Reviews-Sapporo_Snow_Festival-Sapporo_Hokkaido.html

The Omagari Fireworks Festival of Akita, Japan: Video Introduction This video, titled "[4K] The 93rd Omagari Fireworks｜One of Japan's Top Three Fireworks Festivals｜2019｜Shot on BMPCC4K" ([4K] 日本三大花火大会 第93回 大曲の花火 2019 大会提供「令和祝祭」 Omagari Fireworks Festival 2019 (shot on BMPCC4K)), was uploaded by "AQUA Geo Graphic." This is a 10-minute video of the 2019 Omagari Fireworks Festival. Please take a look at the beautiful video showing the powerful fireworks lighting up the night sky with narration and music. The Omagari Fireworks Festival – One of the Three Major Fireworks Festivals in Japan Photo：Omagari Fireworks It is said that there are more than 1,000 fireworks displays held throughout Japan. Among them, the Tsuchiura All Japan Fireworks Competition in Ibaraki Prefecture, the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival in Niigata Prefecture, and the Omagari Fireworks Festival in Omagari in Daisen, Akita, in Japan's Tohoku region, are considered to be the Top 3 Fireworks Festivals in Japan. The official name of the Omagari Fireworks Festival is the "All Japan Fireworks Competition." It is held every year on the last Saturday in August. While many fireworks displays are held as local town revitalization events or as summer traditions, the Omagari Fireworks Festival is a competition in which pyrotechnicians from all over the country compete with each other. Therefore, pyrotechnicians carefully prepare for this event with passion and pride. The "Wide Starmine," a 500-meter-long firework that has become a specialty of the event every year, takes as long as a year to produce. The History of the Omagari Fireworks Festival and What Makes It Unique Every year, many people visit the festival to watch the passionate competition between the best pyrotechnicians in Japan, and the 93rd event attracted approximately 750,000 spectators! The city is said to have been flooded with people. Another feature of the Omagari Fireworks Festival is that there is not only a nighttime fireworks display, but also a daytime fireworks display. The daytime fireworks, which are colorfully depicted in the bright sky using multicolored smoke, have been popular among fireworks connoisseurs for many years. Currently, daytime fireworks can only be seen at the Omagari Fireworks Festival. If you are planning to visit the festival, be sure to get there early to see the daytime fireworks as well. Omagari Fireworks 2022 – Held for the First Time in Three Years! Dates, Times, and Spectator Seating The past two years the festival was cancelled due to the novel coronavirus, and this year, 2022, will be the first time in three years that the festival will be held. Date and time: Saturday, August 27, 2022 (daytime fireworks: 17:15~ / nighttime fireworks: 18:50~) Tickets for the bleachers are sold online, but due to changes in bleacher seating, the capacity has been reduced to 60% of the previous event. Also, since the 2022 event will be held despite the coronavirus pandemic, there will be no same-day ticket sales this year. If you want to attend next year's Omagari Fireworks, check the official website in advance, as tickets will likely be sold from early to late July. Access and Location of the Omagari Fireworks Festival The Omagari Fireworks Festival is held at the Omono Riverside Ryokuchi Athletic Park in Daisen, Akita. Access to the venue is a 30-minute walk from JR Omagari Station. On the day of the event, traffic will be regulated around the venue due to the large number of people expected to attend the event. Since public transportation is not available, the only way to get there is on foot. If you are coming from other prefectures, it's better to cross the prefectural border before noon. Summary of the Omagari Fireworks Festival, One of the Top Three Fireworks Festivals in Japan Photo：The Omagari Fireworks Festival If you haven't watched the video showing the 2019 Omagari Fireworks Festival, be sure to check it out! If you want to see the Omagari Fireworks Festival, where pyrotechnicians from all over Japan come to compete, be sure to make plans sooner rather than later! With fewer spectator seats available, seating competition is expected to increase. If you're coming from far away on a tour or trip, you'll need to make reservations for hotels and other facilities. The official website also says, "walking is unavoidable on the day of the event," so it's advisable to wear shoes that are easy to walk in and carry minimal luggage. It's said that people who see the Omagari Fireworks Festival often become repeat visitors. Create some lasting end-of-summer memories with this amazing fireworks show in Akita Prefecture! 【TripAdvisor】Omagari Fireworks Festival https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1022315-d10019456-Reviews-or10-Omagari_Fireworks-Daisen_Akita_Prefecture_Tohoku.html

Kobe Illuminage: Video Introduction This video, titled "Kobe Illuminage" (神戸イルミナージュ), was uploaded by "kobecitychannel." Kobe Illuminage is a magical interactive illumination event at Kobe Fruit Flower Park Ozo, a roadside station in Kobe, Hyogo, in Japan's Kansai region. Each year the event attracts more than 150,000 visitors. The illuminations extending over the vast grounds at Kobe Illuminage, one of the most popular winter spots in Japan's Kansai region, make it feel as though you've wandered into a palace of light. Be sure to check out the video before reading on! Kobe Illuminage – Event Period, Hours, & Other Information Photo：Kobe Fruit Flower Park Ozo Kobe Fruit Flower Park Ozo is one of the largest roadside stations in western Japan. The park is complete with an amusement park, hot spring facilities, a BBQ space, and even a dog run. Kobe Illuminage, held there every year, is an illumination event that started in the wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011. The event was started to send the power of light from Kobe, which itself experienced the Great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995, with the desire to extend support to those in Japan's Tohoku region who were affected by the disaster. The event will run from November 19, 2022 to February 26, 2023, with no holidays, even during the year-end and New Year holidays. Opening hours are from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and illumination hours are from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Illuminage is a combination of the words "illumination" and "nage," the French word for "swimming." The name is a reference to the way light swims and shines freely while intertwined. [Video] 0:36 - Approximately 5 million LED light bulbs Kobe Illuminage – A Host of Attractions! Check Out the Giant Maze at the Event! Photo：An image of an illumination ※Image is for reference only Kobe Illuminage is full of diverse illuminations that can be enjoyed by both children and adults alike. The highlight of the event is a huge maze beautifully illuminated by LED lights. Enjoy a fun adventure as you make your way to the exit while surrounded by the dazzlingly illuminated maze. The view, surrounded by a wall of light, is a mysterious space that's sure to be great for taking photos, especially for Instagram. Don't forget your camera! [Video] 1:06 - The Giant Maze at Kobe Illuminage Also, don't miss out on the "Monkey Show of Light" (光のモンキーショー, Hikari no Monki Sho) held at the Monkeys Theater in the park. The combination of cute monkeys and light is sure to impress. Be Sure to Dress Warm! Photo：Warm clothing Kobe Fruit Flower Park Ozo is located in Kita, Kobe, a place surrounded by nature, and the average temperature is said to be lower than that of downtown Kobe. The advantage of this is that there's less light pollution, which makes the lights shine even more beautifully. Nevertheless, the winds can be quite strong, and it can get colder than you might expect. It's recommended that visitors wear thick clothes and prepare gloves, hats, scarves, boots, and hand warmers. After you've finished enjoying the event, it's recommended that you warm up at a nearby hot spring or stay overnight at a hotel. Kobe Illuminage – Ticket Information Photo：Kobe Illuminage at Kobe Fruit Flower Park Ozo Tickets for Kobe Illuminage can be purchased online as "advance admission tickets" with discounts or "advance priority admission tickets" (shorter waiting time for admission). In addition, same-day admission tickets are available at ticket booths. On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays during the event period (specified days), a free temporary direct bus service will be available from the nearest station, JR Sanda Station. ■Same-day Admission Tickets Adults (ages 13 and older): 1,500 yen / Children (ages 12 and younger): 800 yen ■Advance Tickets (on sale from October 1 - November 18) Adults (ages 13 and older): 1,300 yen / Children (ages 12 and younger): 700 yen ■Advance Priority Admission Tickets (on sale from October 1 - November 18) Adults (ages 13 and older): 2,000 yen / Children (ages 12 and younger): 1,300 yen Summary of Kobe Illuminage Kobe Illuminage is a popular event that continues to attract many people, with more and more visitors every year. Free parking is available for up to 1,500 cars, but according to online reviews, on busy December weekends and dates close to Christmas, you can expect considerable traffic on the way home from the venue, so it's recommended to arrive and leave with plenty of time to spare. If you don't like crowds, you may choose to visit early into the event period. The moment the lights come on is truly fantastical, so be inside the venue before 5:30 p.m.! Also, many people choose to stay at the adjacent Kobe Hotel Fruit Flower with an overnight stay plan that includes an admission ticket. Enjoy a warm time with your loved ones at the wonderful illumination. ◆Kobe Fruit Flower Park Ozo◆ 【Address】Kamiozo-2150 Ozocho, Kita Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 651-1522 【Access】 Train: Approx. 15 min. by bus or cab from Okaba Station via the Kobe Electric Railway From JR Sanda Station: Approx. 15 minutes by cab From JR Sannomiya Station: Approx. 35 min. by Shinki Bus (No. 38) (available only on weekends and holidays) Car: Located right after the Ozo IC of the Rokko-hoku Toll Road (六甲北有料道路大沢ＩＣ, Rokko-hoku Yuryo Doro Ozo IC) 【Official Website】Kobe Fruit Flower Park Ozo 【TripAdvisor】Kobe Fruit Flower Park Ozo

Autumn Leaves & Sightseeing in Fujikawaguchiko: Video Introduction This video, titled "Must-see Views at Lake Kawaguchi｜A Corridor of Autumn Leaves" (Must See in Kawaguchiko,Japan "Autumn Leaves Corridor" 河口湖 紅葉(もみじ)回廊), was uploaded by "ka2see tv." The Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival is held in conjunction with the autumn leaves of Lake Kawaguchi, which are at their best from early to mid-November. Visitors are fascinated by the corridor surrounded by beautiful autumn leaves. Check out the relaxing illuminations and the pleasant rustling of leaves in the video below. Celebrate Autumn With the Colorful Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival Photo：The corridor of autumn leaves at the Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival The Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival is scheduled to be held at Lake Kawaguchi in Yamanashi Prefecture from October 29 (Sat.) to November 23 (Wed.), 2022. This is a popular sightseeing event where visitors can observe the autumn foliage of approximately 400 to 500 trees along the shores of Lake Kawaguchi, with Mt. Fuji in the distance. [Video] 2:57 - The Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival This year, in addition to usual events, a new 200-meter-long area called "Oku no Hosomichi" will be introduced. Consider stopping by Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival to see it! Admission to the Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival is completely free. The event is held from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. each day, and the corridor of autumn leaves is illuminated until 10:00 p.m. The fantastic autumn leaves lit up in the night sky can be seen in the video here. [Video] 0:16 - A View of the Illuminated Autumn Foliage A Spectacular View of Mt. Fuji and Autumn Leaves Around Lake Kawaguchi! Photo：Mt. Fuji from a tunnel of autumn leaves at Lake Kawaguchi There are a number of places around Lake Kawaguchi where visitors can enjoy the autumn leaves. Here are some of the best places to take pictures around Lake Kawaguchi. ●The Tunnel of Autumn Leaves This is a famous spot where the autumn leaves along the road turn red and resemble a colorful tunnel. The composition of the autumn leaves, Mt. Fuji, and Lake Kawaguchi is very popular, and many photographers and tourists visit this spot to take photos. The view of the bright red autumn leaves over Mt. Fuji is like a painting, reminding us of the autumn season in Japan. The spot has been featured on tourism posters, and it's sure to be a popular on Instagram as well. ●Momiji-dai Momiji-dai, an observation deck for viewing the autumn leaves, is located on Mt. Ashiwada at the eastern end of the Aokigahara Sea of Trees on the north side of Mt. Fuji. The observation deck offers a breathtaking 360-degree view. You can see Mt. Fuji and the Aokigahara Sea of Trees through the autumn leaves, as well and the views of Lake Motosu and Lake Nishiko are also outstanding. ●Lake Motosu Lake Motosu, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, is a popular photo spot that even appears on the 1,000-yen bill. Lake Motosu is famous for its upside-down Fuji reflected on the surface of the lake, and in autumn, the reddish autumn leaves can be seen reflected on the surface of the lake as well. Enjoy a collaboration of colorful autumn leaves and Mt. Fuji in one place. Summary of Autumn Leaves at Lake Kawaguchi Photo：The Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival Come and enjoy Japan's unique autumn scenery at the Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival. The illuminated autumn leaves of Fujikawaguchiko are a very different sight from those seen during the daytime. There are many places around Lake Kawaguchi where you can take photos of the autumn leaves as well, so be sure to bring a camera when sightseeing in Yamanashi! During the Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival, many people are expected to visit and crowds and traffic jams are likely to occur. Free temporary parking is available, but spaces are limited. Visitors can also use the Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus (Red-Line) or other transportation to get to the event site. Traffic near Kawaguchiko Bridge can be checked via live camera, so we recommend using it when you visit the area. 【Official Website】The 24th Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival https://fujisan.ne.jp/pages/433/ 【TripAdvisor】The Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1165976-d10019717-Reviews-Fuji_Lake_Kawaguchi_Koyo_Festival-Fujikawaguchiko_machi_Minamitsuru_gun_Yamanas.html

Yu Akari – A Winter Illumination at Kurokawa Onsen: Video Introduction This video, titled "Yu Akari 10-Year Anniversary Video" (湯あかり10周年記念動画), was uploaded by "Minamioguni Tourist Association" (南小国町観光協会). This video chronicles the 10-year history of Yu Akari at Kurokawa Onsen in Aso, Kumamoto, in Japan's Kyushu region, starting from the winter of 2012 through 2022. Yu Akari – A Winter Tradition at Kurokawa Onsen Photo：A hot spring inn at Kurokawa Onsen Yu Akari began after the head of the Kurokawa Onsen Tourism Association, noticing that winter in Kurokawa was slow, decided to create an event that visitors could enjoy during the winter months as well. The video shows the tranquil scenery of Kurokawa Onsen during winter. [Video] 0:20 - Snow Falling and the Beautiful Sound of a Murmuring River In modern Japan, dilapidated bamboo groves are becoming a problem all over the country. Kurokawa Onsen is no exception. The number of abandoned bamboo groves has been increasing, and is a constant source of concern. Under such circumstances, Kurokawa Onsen made efforts to thin out and regenerate the bamboo forests in order to maintain the beautiful satoyama environment. The new tourist attraction Yu Akari is a part of these activities to combat dilapidated bamboo groves. In 2022, Yu Akari celebrated its 10th anniversary and is now spreading throughout the town of Minamioguni. Starting something new is not an easy task in a tourist attraction known for its history, and sustaining it can be even more difficult. In Kurokawa Onsen, the younger generation has taken over the tradition of Kurokawa Onsen, with the strength from their predecessors, and has continued to create, nurture, and grow Yu Akari as a community. Photo：Yu Akari, Kurokawa Onsen Yu Akari is an event in which bamboo lanterns of various shapes and sizes are lit up throughout the town. They are positioned and illuminated so that they blend in with the natural landscape of the town, such as along the river and at shrines. The faint illuminations blend into the cold winter air and have become popular in recent years for their photogenic nature. You can see the director of the Kurokawa Onsen Tourism Association talking about the philosophy of the hot spring in the video. [Video] 0:52 - Kurokawa Onsen – One Ryokan for the Entire Community Event Dates and Illumination Hours for Kurokawa Onsen's Yu Akari Photo：Yu Akari, Kurokawa Onsen For its 10-year anniversary, the event ran from Saturday, December 18, 2021 to Sunday, April 3, 2022. Illumination hours are from sunset to 10 p.m. Lights can be seen at several locations, including Marusuzu Bridge to Kawabata Street (川端通り, Kawabata-dori), near Yamabiko Ryokan (やまびこ旅館), Jizo Hall (地蔵堂, Jizo-dou), the Ryokan Association (旅館組合, Ryokan Kumiai), Kurokawa Onsen Bus Stop (黒川温泉バス停, Kurokawa Onsen Basu-tei), and Kurokawa Shrine (黒川温泉明神様, Kurokawa Onsen Myojin-sama). Many couples can be seen enjoying an evening stroll, making it a sort of winter tradition in Kurokawa Onsen. The illumination event is generally held from around Christmas to the end of March, so be sure to check it out if you're visiting the area. Enjoy the Breathtaking Illumination With a Stay at a Traditional Japanese Inn Photo：Kurokawa Onsen, Kumamoto Prefecture Kurokawa Onsen has a number of highly recommended hot spring resorts that are popular for their photogenic views. Below we'll introduce a few of them (in no particular order). Please contact the inns directly for information on accommodations and reservations during the Yu Akari illumination event. Kurokawa Onsen – Yamabiko Ryokan This inn is popular for its large open-air rock baths, referred to as "Sen'ninburo" (仙人風呂, "Immortal Baths"). There are also popular private baths that can be used freely and without charge. The dining space has tatami mats, sunken kotatsu, and standard tables for guests to choose from. The meals are centered on cuisine utilizing fresh, natural ingredients from the local mountains. Kurokawa Onsen – Ikoi Ryokan An inn famous for its hot springs which are said to promote beauty. It's also conveniently located near the hot spring resort. The meals consist of healthy Japanese cuisine using local vegetables harvested at the inn's private farm. Ryokan Kounoyu Ryokan Kounoyu has the deepest standing bath in Japan at 1.6 meters deep. All 9 guest rooms are detached from the main building, and all have open-air baths with free-flowing hot-spring water. Meals are prepared with an emphasis on local production for local consumption. Summary of Kurokawa Onsen's Winter Illumination, Yu Akari At Kurokawa Onsen, there are also hot spring tickets called "Nyuto Tegata" (入湯手形), which are valid for six months and allow visitors to choose three of the 27 open-air baths to bathe in during the six-month period. Since you can visit the baths on a day trip without staying overnight, these tickets are popular among hot spring lovers and people interested in the architecture of the hot spring inns, and you can even take one home as a souvenir. Of course, there are many other things to enjoy besides hot springs! While touring the hot springs, we recommend eating around the area as well. You can enjoy relaxing hot springs and delicious local cuisine at the same time. Hopefully this information on Kurokawa Onsen's Yu Akari illumination, including hot spring inns, and tourist information on hot spring tickets, is useful for your visit to Kurokawa Onsen. Be sure to research popular inns and event information for Yu Akari before your visit! 【Official Website】Kurokawa Onsen Official Website｜A Hot Spring Resort in Aso, Kumamoto 【TripAdvisor】Kurokawa Onsen

Omizutori, a Unique Event at Todaiji Temple: Video Introduction This video, titled "'Omizutori' at Todaiji Temple's Nigatsudo Hall, an Ancient Ceremony That Has Continued for More Than 1,200 Years" (東大寺二月堂「お水取り」　1200年以上続く不退の行法), was uploaded by "KYODO NEWS." Omizutori (water-drawing ceremony) is held at Todaiji Temple's Nigatsudo Hall for two weeks from March 1 to 14 every year. This video introduces the traditional ceremony from the first day to the last day. On the final day, when the "Kagotaimatsu" (large torches made with pine) are lit, the temple is crowded with tourists and people wishing for good health and good fortune. Be sure to check out the videos to see what it's like. The History and Meaning Behind the Unique Event at Todaiji Temple, Nara Photo：Todaiji Temple, Nara Todaiji Temple is a temple in Nara, Japan famous for the "Great Buddha of Nara" and its principal image is the Vairocana Buddha. It was built in the Nara Period (710-794 A.D.) at the request of Emperor Shomu. Omizutori, a traditional event to herald the coming of spring, is held at Todaiji Temple every year. It's said that this event was first held in 752 by Jichu, a high disciple of Roben, and has a history of more than 1,200 years. Originally, in February of the lunar calendar, "Shunie," a ceremony of repentance for more than two weeks, was held. "Omizutori," a widely known ceremony in Japan, is a part of this ceremony. During Shunie, 6 repentance sessions called "Rokuji no Gyoho" are performed from noon to midnight. During the six repentance sessions, beautiful shomyo (Buddhist chanting) is performed. The six repentance sessions are: "Nichu" (midday), "Nichimotsu" (dusk), "Shoya" (late evening), "Hanya" (midnight), "Goya" (after midnight), and "Jinjo" (dawn). The name "Omizutori" is derived from the transportation of okozui (scented water used for purification) from the manor of the Wakasa well. The water drawn is from a well in a building to which only parade performers are allowed. It is believed that drinking the okozui will cure all illnesses. The official name of "Omizutori" is "Juichi-men Kekka." During the ceremony, priests who have purified their bodies and souls chant the name of the Buddha in front of the eleven-faced Kannon (Goddess of Mercy), repenting for their sins and praying for peace and tranquility under heaven. In recent years, many events have had to be canceled due to the Corona pandemic, but the Shunie and Omizutori ceremonies have never been canceled, even when various natural disasters and epidemics have occurred. Highlights of the Event at Todaiji Temple, Nara Photo：Omizutori at Todaiji Temple, Nara The famous scene of Todaiji Temple's Omizutori is the spectacular sight of torch sparks dancing from the stage of Nigatsudo. The torch sparks, called "o-taimatsu," are known to bring blessings of good health and good fortune, and every year many tourists visit Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall to see them. It's said that if you take home cinders from the burnt torches, wrap them in a piece calligraphy paper and tie it with mizuhiki (a decorative Japanese cord) to decorate your entrance or kitchen, you will be blessed with good luck that will ward off misfortune and evil. [Video] 0:53 - Monks Led by a Large Torch Enter Nigatsudo One After Another There are 10 torches lit each night during the procession, but on the night of March 12th, the largest basket torch appears, bringing the total to 11. The sight of these torches, 8 meters long and weighing about 70 kg each, leading the procession with fiery sparks amidst the solemn sound of bells is a sight to behold. [Video] 1:40 - The Large Basket Torches After the date changes to dawn on the 13th, the Omizutori, from which the festival takes its name, begins. The ceremony is extremely sacred, so the inside of the Omizutori itself is kept secret. [Video] 2:10 - Torchlight and Monks Heading for the Omizutori Omizutori 2023 – Event Dates and Schedules Photo：The Omizutori stage, Nigatsudo, Todaiji Temple, Nara The schedule for the Omizutori/Shunie ceremonies in 2023 is as follows: Dates: Wednesday, March 1st - Tuesday, March 14, 2023 (However, the event will be held from 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 12th, and from 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 14th.) During the festival, the hall will be decorated with artificial "camellia" flowers made by the parade performers to delight the eyes of visitors. It's recommended that you check schedules and event times in advance. How to Get to Todaiji Temple to See the Events Although admission to Todaiji Temple's Nigatsudo Hall, where the "Omizutori" ceremony is held, is free of charge, the crowds usually increase with each passing day. It's said that the first half of the week from March 1st, when the "Omizutori" ceremony begins, excluding weekends, is the best time to visit the hall. The crowds peak on the 12th, when the dynamic "Kagotaimatsu" can be seen burning, and the area around Nara Park, located near Todaiji Temple, is so crowded that police are dispatched to guide tourists. Therefore, public transportation is recommended to access Nigatsudo. The nearest station is Kintetsu Nara Station. If you're driving, please use toll parking lots in the area, as there is no parking at Todaiji Temple. Summary of Omizutori, a Unique Event at Todaiji Temple Omizutori is a unique ceremony held at Todaiji Temple's Nigatsudo Hall. On March 15th, after the full performance of the ceremony, there's an event held for small children in which the hats worn by the monks who perform in the ceremony, is placed on the child's head to pray for his or her healthy growth. This marks the end of the traditional "Omizutori" ceremony at Todaiji Temple. Although this event heralds the beginning of spring, Nara in early March can be quite cold, so be sure to dress warm when visiting. There are a variety of tours available for families, friends, or solo travelers as well. Planning a spring trip to Nara will be tons of fun! Witness the sparks of the giant torches and experience 1,200 years of history at a famous temple in Nara, Japan! [Official Website] Todaiji Temple [Tripadvisor] Nigatsudo, Todaiji Temple

Okera Mairi at Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto: Video Introduction This video, titled "Yasaka Shrine "Okera Mairi" (December 31, 2021, Higashiyama, Kyoto)" (八坂神社「おけら詣り」（2021年12月31日　京都市東山区）), was uploaded by "Kyoto Shimbun" (京都新聞). The video introduces Okera Mairi, a New Year's Eve ritual performed by priests on a night with light snowfall. Be sure to check it out as you read along. Highlights, History, and Facts About Yasaka Shrine Photo：Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto Yasaka Shrine is called "Gion-san" ("san" being an honorific title attached to names in Japanese to show respect) by the people of Kyoto. Yasaka Shrine is the head shrine of all 2,300 shrines following the Gion faith in Japan. The shrine's deity is Susanoo no Mikoto, who is believed to be a god who purifies all manner of misfortune. Yasaka Shrine is home to many Important Cultural Properties, including the main shrine, which is also a National Treasure, and is one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Kyoto's Higashiyama district. The shrine is also famous for its beauty and is known as a power spot for love. The shrine also has a power spot for beauty called "Utsukushi-gozensha." The "biyou-sui" (美容水, "beauty water") next to the torii gate is also popular. Maiko and geiko from Gion, a temple town, as well as people in the beauty and hairdressing industry, and many women from all over the country visit this shrine with prayers of beauty. It's said a few drops on the skin is said to promote both beautiful skin and a beautiful, and it's so popular that visitors come regardless of the season. Yasaka Shrine is also said to be the largest power spot for love in Kyoto because Kushinadahime (Kushinadahime no Mikoto), a god of love, is enshrined together with Susanoo no Mikoto, the god of the shrine, and they are regarded as a god couple that gets along very well. The shrine is thought to grant good fortune. Okera Mairi – Event Hours and the Meaning Behind the Event Source :YouTube screenshot The Okera Mairi (おけら詣り) event of Yasaka Shrine, held on the night of December 31st (New Year's Eve), is a custom to welcome the New Year and is unique to Kyoto. Starting at 4:00 a.m. on the 28th, the rhizomes of atractylodes (朮, Okera in Japanese), which are believed to ward off bad luck, are placed in a lantern to make an "okera fire." At 7:00 p.m. on the 31st, the fire is transferred from the okera lanterns in the main shrine to the okera lanterns hanging in the precincts by the priests after the New Year's Eve ceremony. Be sure to watch the video to see what this looks like. [Video] 0:44 - Priests Solemnly Proceeding Through the Precincts of the Shrine as Snow Falls Atractylodes (Okera) is believed to ward off evil spirits and protect people from illness and misfortune because of its strong and distinctive smell. After the kitchounawa (lucky ropes) are lit using the fire from the okera lanterns, the ropes are whirled around to keep the fire burning until it is brought back home. [Video] 2:01 - Shrine Goers Lighting Their Lucky Ropes In the past, the okera fires were lit in front of the shrine and used as fuel for cooking New Year's food. Later, as lifestyles changed, it became common to display the rope in one's kitchen after the fire had gone out as a good-luck charm to pray for good health throughout the year. Other Events at Yasaka Shrine Photo：Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto Yasaka Shrine is a popular place to visit for Hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the year), with more than 1 million people visiting the shrine during the first 3 days of the new year in recent years. However, many people have refrained from visiting the shrine since 2021 due to the spread of the novel coronavirus. For Hatsumode in 2023, the crowding projections and congestion information have yet to be announced. We recommend checking the latest information before making a visit to the shrine. The first ritual of the New Year, the Okera Festival will be held in the main hall of the shrine starting at 5:00 a.m. on January 1. In this ritual to pray for a safe and peaceful new year, dried atractylodes roots and special sticks are mixed together. After the sacred okera fires are lit, they are thrown down from the main shrine onto the stone pavement of the shrine grounds to purify it of pestilence and evil spirits. On January 3, from 9:00 a.m., the heads of the Kongo and Kanze schools of noh will perform a New Year's noh performance, a noh and shimai dance performance, followed at 1:00 p.m. by Karuta Hajime-shiki, a ceremony to start the New Year with a traditional card game called "Karuta." It's a great way to experience the New Year in Japan. Summary of Okera Mairi at Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto Yasaka Shrine is one of the most popular and crowded spots in Kyoto during the year-end and New Year holidays. Following the Okera Mairi on the night of New Year's Eve, Yasaka Shrine is filled with the excitement of people visiting the shrine for Hatsumode. During the Hatsumode period, many food stalls are set up on the shrine grounds and around the outer garden, creating a festival-like atmosphere. If you plan to visit the shrine to see the New Year rituals and festivities, we recommend that you allow plenty of time for your visit, as the shrine can be quite crowded. 【Official Website】Yasaka Shrine 【TripAdvisor】Yasaka Shrine

Shirahige Falls Illumination: Video Introduction This video, titled "Illuminated Shirahige Falls in Biei," was uploaded by "Nao Akimoto." Shirahige Falls is a popular tourist attraction in Biei, Hokkaido. The sight of the illuminated waterfall is truly breathtaking. The waterfall's serene appearance, flowing amidst the snowy landscape, is definitely worth a trip to see. Check out the video to see the unforgettable appearance of Shirahige Falls illuminated in the darkness on a cold winter night. Shirahige Falls, Biei, Hokkaido Photo：Shirahige Falls on the Biei River, Hokkaido With a drop of 30 meters, underground water seeping out from between natural rocks falls into the Biei River with great force. A waterfall of this kind is called a subterranean waterfall, and it's one of the rarest waterfalls in Japan. Shirahige Falls is just a 5-minute walk from the Shirogane Onsen hot spring resort in Biei, Hokkaido. Shirahige Falls (白, Shira "White"; 髭, Hige 'Beard') gets its name from the white beard-like appearance of the water flowing out of the cracks in the rocks. The mixture of the Biei River and the waterfall creates a cobalt blue appearance, which is a mysterious and beautiful sight. Like in the video, the winter lighting of Shirahige Falls is also popular, which makes it ideal for taking beautiful photos throughout the seasons. In summer, the contrast of new green and blue is wonderful, and in autumn, the changing leaves add color. Regardless of the season, travelers will be delighted by the appearance of the waterfall that flows without freezing. How to Get To Shirahige Falls' to See the Illumination: Parking, Lighting Hours, Etc. Photo：An illuminated Shirahige Falls, Hokkaido Shirahige Falls has been lit up since December 2015. This initiative was launched as a follow-up to Shirogane Blue Pond, which was lit up the previous year. It is now a popular tourist attraction among both foreign and domestic tourists for its fantastical appearance. The waterfall is lit up all year-round and the lighting hours are as follows: Shirahige Falls Illumination November - April: 4:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. ※Starting times vary by month. May - October: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. For more information, please check the Biei Town official website. Shirahige Falls can be reached by a single road from central Biei. It can be accessed by bus or car, and is a 20-to-30-minute drive full of beautiful scenery from Biei Station. There are two free parking lots nearby for those driving as well, so be sure to make use of them if you're coming by car. Other Attractions Near Shirahige Falls Photo：Shirogane Blue Pond, Biei, Hokkaido Shirahige Falls is also a power spot, known for its natural energy as underground water flows out from the Tokachi mountain range. Shirogane Blue Pond can be found about 3km downstream from Shirahige Falls. Mineral components such as aluminum contained in Shirahige Falls mix with the Biei River, creating particles called colloids. When the sunlight hits these colloids just right, they appear cobalt blue. Shirogane Blue Pond has become famous for its beautiful blue color, which is said to cleanse the mind and give one power. Biei Shrine is another popular power spot, known as one of the three major power spots in Hokkaido, alongside Hokkaido Shrine and Lake Toya. The shrine is dedicated to 5 deities, including Amaterasu, the sun god in Japanese mythology. The shrine has become popular as a power spot because it is believed to have the best chi flow in Biei. The shrine also contains many hidden heart-shaped patterns scattered about the shrine grounds, which are popular among young women as it's said the more you find them, the more likely you are to find love. Summary of the Shirahige Falls Illumination in Biei, Hokkaido Did you make sure to check out the video? The Shirahige Falls Illumination, along with the Shirogane Blue Pond Illumination, has become a popular tourist attraction in Biei, Hokkaido. Known as a power spot, it attracts many visitors each year who are captivated by its beauty. There is also the Shirogane Onsen hot spring resort area nearby, providing a variety of accommodation options, such as hotels and traditional Japanese-style inns. It's also a great base for exploring the surrounding area, including places like Furano. After viewing the beautiful snow-covered landscape and the popular tourist spot, Shirahige Falls, visitors can relax at the hot springs of Biei, Hokkaido. Come for a visit and recharge your batteries while enjoying the incredible scenery! 【TripAdvisor】Shirahige Falls