Mie Prefecture’s Traditional Handicraft- Iga Kumihimo This video is “TEWAZA- Iga Kumihimo Braided Cord,” introducing Iga Kumihimo, produced by “Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square.” Iga Kumihimo is a traditional handicraft that has gained a lot of attention thanks to the popular animated movie “Your Name.” It has been popular since ancient times, used to make Kimono accessories, such as Obi straps. Kumihimo’s charm lays in its beautiful design, which has been hand-braided using elaborate techniques. Let’s peek into the beautiful world of Iga Kumihimo, where the craftman’s amazing attention to detail is packed into his crafts, and enjoy the traditional Japanese culture. The video shows a craftsman carefully making Iga Kumihimo by hand. It's rare footage that allows us an inside look at Iga Kumihimo The Charm of the Iga Area, Home of Iga Kumihimo Photo：Ise Shrine Iga City (伊賀市, Iga-Shi), a major producer of Iga Kumihimo, is a small town located in the mountains of Mie Prefecture. Mie Prefecture (三重県, Mie-Ken), in the Tokai region of Japan. It is said that the Iga Area was once home to many Ninjas, and is still attracting people’s attention as the “Ninja Village.” In the neighboring area Ise City, there is Ise Shrine, which has been worshiped since ancient times. There are many other attractive sightseeing spots in Mie prefecture as well, such as Nabana no Sato, and Meoto-Iwa. Take your time and enjoy the area. The History of the Traditional Handicraft, Iga Kumihimo Source :YouTube screenshot Braiding has a long history in Japan, dating back to the introduction of Buddhism during the Nara period (710-794 AD). The technique of Iga Kumihimo, which is said to have originally been used for Buddhist robes and sutras, has changed over time as it has been used for Japanese clothing accessories such as obi fasteners. At present, Iga Kumihimo is popular not only for making obi fasteners, but also in making accessories, necklace key chains, straps, charms, accessory cases, ties, bracelets, neck straps, and so on. You can see some of the finished products from 3:11 of the video. The Process of Braiding Iga Kumihimo Source :YouTube screenshot The main process of making Iga Kumihimo braids is to use silk or gold thread and to braid it up using a traditional tool called a “Kumidai.” You can see the threads dyed in various colors at 0:29 in the video. "Thread measuring" is the next step you can see from 0:36 in the video. This determines the length and number of threads. In this video, nine thin threads are bundled together to make a single thread used for Kumihimo braiding. Finally, it becomes a “Braid.” This process is introduced at 0:54 in the video. Each workshop braids by following the instructions called “Ayagaki,” which have been passed down from one generation to the next. The craftsman says that the “High loom,” used in the “braiding” in the video, can catch many more bobbins compared to other stands, and that lets them create complicated patterns. In order to knit beautiful IGA braids, the skill of a craftsman who has been making braids for many years is essential. You can learn about the history and culture of Iga Kumihimo, its techniques, and how to make it at the “Iga Tradition Hall –Iga Kumihimo Center Kumi-no- Sato” located in Iga City. You can also experience making various kinds of works such as key chains and bracelets with Iga Kumihimo. Summary of Iga Kumihimo Source :YouTube screenshot The craftsman explains at 2:42 in the video that, "Kumihimo can stretch because of the diagonal lattice weave. It adapts to the body," and that "a cord made properly with a high loom will stay snug, from morning until you come back home." Iga Kumihimo is a traditional handicraft that is popular among many people due to its high degree of perfection. Each hand-braided piece is truly a work of art. If you are interested in this traditional handicraft after reading this article, why not try it yourself? You can purchase by mail order, and they offer beginner kits so those who have never tried it before can experience the traditional Japanese culture of Iga Kumihimo! 【Official website】Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/

The Traditional Japanese Atmosphere of Uchiko, Ehime This is a PR video for Uchiko, titled ‘UCHIKO GENIC Trailer,’ made by the Uchiko Tourism Association in Ehime prefecture on Shikou Island. The town of Uchiko, in Ehime Prefecture, is home to a strong tradition of Japanese performing arts and traditional events. population of about 300 people, is a beautiful place where traditional culture has been preserved through "village-preservation activities" by the residents. In Ishidatami district, the local people hold festivals in every season, such as the "Water Wheel Festival" and the "Soba Festival," and many tourists visit the festivals to experience traditional Japanese culture. This video introduces the traditions, culture, history and cuisine of Uchiko, Ehime with fantastic music. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show! A Heavenly Time in Uchiko, Ehime Source :YouTube screenshot Ishidatami no Yado hotel in Uchiko, Ehime is an inn with a traditional Japanese style house, where you are served Japanese cuisine using local ingredients. You can relax in the onsen bath and enjoy delicious Japanese meals. This can be seen at 1:30 in the video. A popular cultural experience in Uchiko, Ehime is strolling through the town in Kimono. We recommend giving it a try to relax. In the video, you can see a woman strolling through the streets of Uchiko while wearing a kimono at 0:26. You can also get some great Instagram pictures of yourself in a kimono! When you're sightseeing in Uchiko, be sure to stop drop in on the local shops, such as Road Station Uchiko's Fresh Park Karari and Odanokyo Seseragi, where you can buy local sake, as well as Uchiko's famous traditional bamboo crafts and souvenir. Karari Bridge (からり橋 Kararibashi) at Uchiko Fresh Park Karari, is decorated with Koinobori streamers in spring. It's a truly beautiful scene. You can see the Koinobori streamers at 2:34 in the video. Many Koinobori streamers, big and small, elegantly swim through the air of Uchiko. Traditional Entertainment and Events in Uchiko! Photo：Uchiko-za Yokaichigokoku in Uchiko, has been given the status of "Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings." Once upon a time, this district was a busy merchant town with a focus on candle making. There's a theater for plays in this district, called Uchiko-za. This theater has been operating since the Taisho period, showing traditional Japanese bunraku plays. The theater can be seen at 0:47 in the video. The Kite Festival, shown at 2:38, has around 400 years of history and is an event in Uchiko that we highly recommend checking out. It's held on May 5th every year, so be sure to line up your visit if you can. At Takekobo Studio, shown at 0:31 in the video, you can see traditional bamboo crafts being hand crafted by artisans. These are perfect as souvenirs from Uchiko. Experience the Natural Landscape Uchiko! Photo：Taiko Bridge, Yuge Shrine Uchiko also attracts people with its beautiful natural landscape. We recommend walking around Odamiyama Valley (小田深山渓谷 Odamiyama Keikoku) in the deep forest and visiting the beautiful rice terrace at Izumidani. Uchiko has a lot to offer when it comes to scenic views. The rice terraces are can be seen throughout the video, and thanks to the drone footage, you get a great aerial view! We also recommend visiting Kosho Temple (高昌寺 Koshoji) and seeing the beautiful view from Yuge Shrine (弓削神社 Yuge Jinja). Don’t forget to try some tasty soba made with the pure water of Uchiko. You can see it at 2:24 in the video. Summary of Uchiko, Ehime Uchiko is a famous tourist spot in Ehime Prefecture where you can experience unique Japanese history. There are many more sightseeing spots in Uchiko that we couldn't get to in this article, so be sure to watch the video to see more of the charms that Uchiko has to offer! We hope we sparked your interest in Uchiko. Visit Uchiko, a town where you can discover Japanese culture and beautiful scenery! 【Official Website】Ehime prefecture Uchiko Town Hall Website https://www.town.uchiko.ehime.jp/ 【Official Website】Uchiko Town Official Tourism Site Uchiko Sanpo https://www.we-love-uchiko.jp/

Japan's Owl Cafes! This video is titled "The First Owl Café in Nara- 'Watawata'" (奈良で初めてのフクロウカフェ【わたわた】). It introduces the owl café in Nara, called "Watawata." There aren’t many chances where you can interact with owls, but at Japan's owl cafes you can enjoy seeing owls up close and even petting them! Many tourists from overseas come to Japan's cat cafes, but if you're looking for a more unique experience we definitely recommend checking out an owl cafe! How Owl Cafes Work Source :YouTube screenshot Owl cafes are places where there are cute owls, such as horned owls and more. Customers can play with owls while eating and drinking, and you can even feed the owls as well! As you can see from 0:49 in the video, there are cafes where you can put the owls on your shoulder and play with them too. You can also take photos with the owls and post them on social media sites. You can see this at 0:51 in the video. About Owls Photo：Owl Owls are nocturnal birds of prey, belonging to the order Strigiformes. They are called "the professors of the forest" and "philosophers of the forest." Their size ranges from 50 to 62 centimeters in length and they weigh anywhere from 500 to 1,300 grams. Five species of owls exist in Japan: the Yezo Ural Owl, Tohoku Owl, Ural Owl, Moniyamae, and Kyushu Owl. The hooting of owls can sometimes be heard as far as several kilometers away. Summary of Japan's Owl Cafes Source :YouTube screenshot If you're looking to rid yourself of stress and enjoy time with an animal you wouldn't normally get to be up close to, be sure to visit one of the many owl cafes in Japan! If you like cute animals, you can also try visiting a parrot or hedgehog cafe as well! 【Tripadvisor】Wata Wata Owl Cafe https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298198-d9856696-Reviews-Wata_Wata_Owl_Cafe-Nara_Nara_Prefecture_Kinki.html

An Entire Bonito Processed and Turned Into Exquisite Dishes This video, titled "Japanese Street Food - Seared Bonito and Sushi," was uploaded by Japan Food Adventure. If you're going to visit Japan, a country surrounded by water on all sides, then not trying the sushi and other delicious cuisine would be a crime! For those looking to try delicious Japanese cuisine, we recommend trying bonito tataki, one of the most popular sushi items in Japan. This time, let's take a look at how a professional chef makes bonito tataki and nigiri sushi! The video is 22 minutes long, but it’s full of fine details and highlights. Bonito Tataki – A Popular Dish in Japan Photo：Straw roasted bonito tataki Bonito (or skipjack tuna) is a delicious fish that is low in calories and rich in nutrients. It has been a favorite menu item in Japan since ancient times. It's said that the reason why bonito tataki is called "tataki" comes from the sound of the chef tapping the cutting board as he cuts the bonito with his knife (tataku 叩く means "to tap" in Japanese). You can see freshly caught bonito at the beginning of the video, so be sure to check it out. Preparing the Finest Bonito Tataki Source :YouTube screenshot First, at 3:01, you can see the fresh bonito being processed. The traditional way to make roasted bonito tataki is to sear it with straw, as shown at 10:55 in the video. After the surface of the bonito is slowly baked with rice straw, the bonito is quickly cooled in ice water and cut into pieces, as shown at 14:18 in the video. It's also delicious when arranged with Japanese ginger, grated daikon, or thinly sliced onion. Season it with ponzu sauce, dipping sauce, or other seasonings, and you've got yourself a delicious gourmet Japanese dish. The finished bonito tataki can be viewed at 17:17 in the video. In Kochi, a place famous for its bonito, it's standard to eat bonito tataki with salt. Not only can you eat it as it is, but you can also nigiri it with sushi rice, which is shown from 18:12 in the video. Summary of Bonito Tataki Source :YouTube screenshot This video introduced the artisanal skills of a Japanese chef as he processes and prepares bonito with great skill. In Japan, there are many seafood dishes that use an abundance of fresh seafood, such as bonito tataki, grilled fish, and sashimi. If you're looking to taste the finest in Japanese cuisine and learn about Japanese food culture, definitely visit an authentic Japanese restaurant and enjoy lunch or dinner.

A Look at Ueda Castle This video, titled "[Aerial Footage] A Travelogue of Ueda Castle [Drone]" (【空撮】空撮上田城紀行　【ドローン】), was produced by "HEXaMedia." Ueda Castle, introduced in the video, is a castle that was built by Sanada Masayuki, the father of the famous warlord Sanada Yukimura. Currently, it is a proud historical tourist destination in Ueda city, Nagano prefecture, and is included in "Japan's Top 100 Castles" and is also a "Night View Heritage of Japan." The castle was constructed during the Tensho period (1573-1592) in the Warring States period (1467-1615). Ueda Castle is also famous for being an impregnable castle, having survived 2 fierce attacks by the Tokugawa Family. The depiction of the Tokugawa Family attacking the castle at the battle of Ueda Castle has been used for many TV dramas and movies. In recent years, it has become widely talked about as the stage of the first of the Ueda Battles in the NHK TV Taiga Drama "Sanadamaru." This time, we introduce a video showing beautiful aerial views of the Ueda Castle ruins, shot via drone. Present-Day Ueda Castle Photo：Nagano prefecture, Ueda Castle The present-day Ueda Castle ruins are a restoration that was done in 1994. It consists of a pillar stone on the right side of the inner citadel which was made by Sanada Masayuki, and a tower gate that was demolished in the Meiji era (1868-1912). It was also called Amagabuchi Castle due to the fact that it was located on the north side of the Ueda Basin and adjacent to Amagabuchi, a distributary of the Chikuma River. Surrounded by the Chikuma River in the south, the Amagabuchi distributary in the north, the Yadezawa River to the west, and the Hiruzawa River in the east; the Ueda Castle was a natural fortress that survived the fierce attacks of the Tokugawa army twice. However, during the reign of the 7th castle lord, Matsudaira Tadachika, the stone walls that were damaged by the flood of Kyoho were restored. As you can see from 1:59 in the video, the present-day ruins of the inner citadel of Ueda Castle have become Sanada Shrine and the old well that is there is called the Sanada well, which is said to have been a secret passage that led to the Taro Mountain Foothills located north of the castle. The History of Ueda Castle Photo：Nagano prefecture, Ueda Castle Ueda Castle, which was said to have been impregnable, was used by many castle lords even after the Sanada clan was placed under house arrest (a punishment of being confined in one room). After the Battle of Sekigahara, Sengoku Tadamasa became the lord of the castle. Originally, Ueda Castle was located in the province of Shinano, sandwiched between the eastern and western armies, and was designed and built to specialize in defense rather than as a base for attack. Traditionally, it was standard practice to build a castle tower on the roof of the inner citadel, but no such records of a castle tower at Ueda Castle exist. Ueda Castle reigned in the Shinano Province for approximately 300 years from the year it was built to the era of Tadafusa Matsudaira, the last lord of the castle, and the Ueda Castle Town is said to have prospered as a key transportation hub. Highlights of Ueda Castle Source :YouTube screenshot At present, Ueda Castle is without an inner citadel or castle tower; however, there are still a lot of places to see due to its unique structure. These include the Southern watchtower, Northern watchtower, and the Higashi Koguchi Watchtower Gate (0:24 in the video). In the spring, there's the Senbon Zakura Festival (Festival of a Thousand Cherry Blossoms) and in the fall, Ueda Castle Keyaki Tree Autumnal Color Festival is held. The Sanada Festival is held every year at the Ueda Castle castle-town. During this time, you can enjoy the illuminated Ueda Castle ruins. Also, at the Higashi Koguchi main gates, there's the Sanada stone, which is said to be a remnant of the Sanada Family. The West watchtower (0:34- of the video) was built by Sengoku Tadamasa in the Warring States period and it is the only historical building still around from the Edo period (1603-1868). ・Ishidoi This is a stone canal that leads from Ninomaru in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture to the track and field stadium at the site of the Hyakenbori Ruins. ・Sumiotoshi The unique shape of the sumiotoshi in the inner citadel was created by cutting off a corner of the earthen mound to ward off evil spirits with feng shui. ・Ueda City Museum A museum located in the Ueda Castle Ruins Park. Summary of Ueda Castle Photo：Ema of Ueda Castle Ruins Park Ueda Castle Site Park, the centerpiece of Ueda City's tourism, offers a variety of hospitality in addition to events to welcome visitors. The red seal of Sanada Shrine and the castle seal of Ueda Castle are great ways to remember your visit. For more information on parking, transportation, and event guides to the castle, please visit the Ueda Castle official website. Ueda Castle was once an unbeatable castle that not even the famous Tokugawa Ieyasu or Toyotomi Hideyoshi could conquer. Visit Ueda Castle and learn about the fierce warriors, such as Sanada Juyushi led by Yukimura, and the warrior Sanada Nobushige that was said to be the strongest in Japan! 【Tripadvisor】Ueda Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021326-d1412214-Reviews-Ueda_Castle-Ueda_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html

The Japanese Experiment Module “Kibo,” the Largest on the International Space Station The video "2019-2020 JAXA Manned Space Activities - "Kibo" and Beyond" (2019-2020 JAXA 有人宇宙活動~「きぼう」その先へ) uploaded by “JAXA,” introduces the Japanese experiment module “Kibo” of the International Space Station. The area known as Low Earth Orbit (LFO) (less than 2,000 km from the Earth), is said to be the gateway to space, and is where various satellites fly. As you can see from 0:33 in the video, Kibo, one of the largest space experiment facilities, was completed in 2009 on the International Space Station. It orbits at an altitude of about 400 kilometers. In terms of size, it is approximately 108.5 meter x 72.8 meters, weighs 420 tons, and flies at speed of about 27,000 km/h (~16,777 Mph). “Kounotori,” the cargo transporter, was also successfully launched, and Kounotori 8 has achieved a 100% mission success rate. Experiments Involving Kibo Source :YouTube screenshot The Japanese Experiment Module “Kibo” is “doing things for society that can only be done in space.” At Cell Biology Experiment Facility (CBEF), they are researching the effects of gravity on living things. This is shown at 1:37 in the video. In the fall of 2019, CBEF-L, which can equip larger devices, was also added. The Electrostatic Levitation Furnace (ELF) is a material testing device that melts materials by making them float, and can examine materials that are difficult to examine on the ground, such as glass and ceramics. The J-SSOD is a mechanism that releases small satellites using Kibo's airlock and robotic arm. The Small Optical Link for International Space Station (SOLISS), developed in collaboration with a private company, conducts experiments using optical disk technology to enable future inter-satellite and space-to-ground high-capacity communications. Beyond Low Earth Orbit Photo：Mars We're currently entering an era where exploring the moon and mars is possible. Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) technology is a system for purifying water and air. A water reclamation system based on Japan's outstanding water treatment technology is also being put to the test. The new H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV-X) is Japan's original spacecraft that will improve Kounotori's transportation capability, and will allow for in-orbit missions that the Japanese sector is aiming for, with the goal of launching by 2021. The Astronauts of Kibo Source :YouTube screenshot There are Japanese astronauts working on the Japanese Experiment Module as well. Noguchi Soichi has maintained the Japanese Experiment Module Kibo and has conducted various experiments. He is responsible for operating the Inter-orbit Communication System (ICS), communicating with the ground through HD images, and preparing for spacecrafts and supply vehicles that visit the ISS. He also interacts with the ground by posting information, pictures, and videos on social media sites, such as Twitter. Doi Takao was in charge of installing and maintaining a storage module for “Kibo.” He organized cargo transfer between the space shuttle and the ISS as a loadmaster (cargo transfer supervisor). Hoshide Akihiko was selected for a long duration mission to the ISS in 2020 and he will lead as a captain at the end on the mission. Summary Photo：Satellite The Japanese Experiment Module "Kibo" is a key facility of the ISS. We are proud to say that Japanese technology is at the forefront of space activities. Let's think back to the Japanese engineers and astronauts who continue to play an active role in space, through this video! 【Official Website】JAXA https://global.jaxa.jp/projects/iss_human/kibo/

Introducing Higashi Village, Okinawa; The Westernmost Spot in Japan. The video “HIGASHI SON” created by "東村 higashi vill," is a video introducing the appeal of Higashi village; The westernmost island in Japan. Higashi is a beautiful village with a stunning view located in Kunigami county of northern Okinawa. It is a small village with a population under 2,000 people including 100 immigrants from different prefectures. It is about 100 km from Naha Airport via the Kyoda Interchange, making it easily accessible, and there are hotels, inns, and guest houses in the area, so it's very convenient for travelers. Features and Local Specialties of Higashi Village, Okinawa Source :YouTube screenshot Due to its tropical weather, Higashi Village is the No. 1 producer of pineapples in Japan, and has produced 15,000 tons of pineapples in the past 10 years alone. They even have an official character named “Pine-man 1.” The Mineral water in Higashi Village is another local specialty that we recommend trying. It's incredibly refreshing. The Fukuji Dam in Higashi Village, a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing, has a total water storage capacity of 55,000,000m³, so you have plenty of space to enjoy experiencing nature. There is even a nature observation boat for taking in all of the beautiful scenery. Besides the dam, there are other activities you can try while visiting Higashi Village, such as hiking, marine activities, and scenic observation spots. The Natural Landscape of Higashi Village, Okinawa Photo：A looking-glass mangrove At 1:16, the video introduces viewers to the natural scenic landscape of Higashi Village, such as the mangrove forest. In Higashi Village, there are exotic birds such as the Okinawa woodpecker, the Eurasian Whimbrel, the Bustastur Indicus and more. There are also creatures native to Okinawa, like the Okinawan tree lizard, the Ryukyu black-breasted leaf turtle, and the Okinawan tree frog. The exotic trees you see in the video at 1:34 are called "looking-glass mangroves." They are considered natural treasures of Higashi Village. The Higashi Village Mountain and Water Life Museum gives visitors a chance to learn about the nature of Yanbaru and the history of Higashi Village. Enjoy a Tour of Higashi Village, Okinawa! There are many attractive spots, such as the Okinawa Yanbaru Seawater Pumped Storage Power Station. Sunrise Higashi is a local store where you can buy local specialties and try some local Okinawan cuisine. You can also try the secret tour of Yanbaru forest, a site proposed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. At 2:04 in the video we see Tsutsuji Eco Park, a nature park with facilities such as the Azalea field, a lodge, campgrounds, and mini golf. There are more events in Higashi Village, Okinawa as well! Every March they hold an Azalea festival (2:08 in the video), and in August you can participate in the “Higashi Village Festival” where you can see over 1,500 fireworks. Summary of Higashi Village, Okinawa Photo：Kayaking through mangroves Higashimura in Okinawa Prefecture has a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty and local attractions. Enjoy your trip to Okinawa with a variety of events and tours, as well as trekking, marine sports, and spectacular views. Don't forget to take some pics for your Instagram! 【Tripadvisor】Higashimura https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1025648-Higashi_son_Kunigami_gun_Okinawa_Prefecture-Vacations.html

A Look at Japan's Sumo Wrestling "Sumo Match - Tokyo - 相撲" is a video produced by TokyoStreetView – Japan The Beautiful, featuring Japan’s national sport! Sumo is a traditional martial art loved by the masses since old times in Japan. As the matches are held internationally, the sport has many overseas fans and is capturing the world’s attention. Matches between top wrestlers in the sumo rankings such as Yokozuna or Ozeki, are very spectacular and spectators can fully enjoy the thrilling matches. The video features footage of a match between sekitori (a sumo ranking) during the New Year’s tournament held in January 2017. Check out Japan’s spectacular sport - sumo wrestling! About Sumo – Japan’s National Sport Photo：Sumo Wrestling The first written record of sumo in Japan is said to be found in a Shinto document called Kojiki. Sumo matches used to be held as rituals and festivals dedicated to the deities and was mostly loved by nobles. After gaining popularity among the masses during the Edo period (1603 – 1868 AD), sumo has been enjoyed as a form of entertainment and sport in Japan. Today, matches are held both nationwide and internationally and many Japanese and foreigners enjoy it. The manners and conventions rooted in the rituals are passed down and given special importance even in modern sumo wrestling. The Excitement of Sumo Source :YouTube screenshot As the national sport of Japan, sumo wrestling starts from matches between low-ranking wrestlers, and matches between makuuchi (senior-grade wrestlers) are held in the evening. Honbasho refers to the official tournaments that decide the rankings and rewards of the wrestlers and six tournaments are organized throughout the year: the first tournament in January (Tokyo), the spring tournament in March (Osaka), the summer tournament in May (Tokyo), the Nagoya tournament in July, the autumn tournament in September (Tokyo), and finally, the Kyushu tournament in November (Fukuoka). Many Japanese people have probably watched the official tournaments aired on NHK (the national broadcaster in Japan). Some may have a stiff image of the national sport, but that's not true at all. Spectators can enter the venue at any time and watch the match in a relaxed manner while eating and drinking. Matches between senior-grade wrestlers are a must-watch and you'll surely get excited watching the spectacular matches between well-built wrestlers. Spectators get excited during matches, especially when a maegashira (the lowest grade of the highest ranking sumo class) wins against a yokozuna (the highest ranking sumo class) champion, as well as in deciding matches. Tickets and information of those exciting sumo wrestling matches are available on the official website of Nihon Sumo Kyokai. The Flow of a Sumo Match Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see at 0:22 in the video, wrestlers step into the ring with their colorful ornamental aprons before a match. As businesses can offer rewards to support wrestlers, the “reward banners” with the names of those businesses go around the ring as you can see at 3:14 in the video. With the company names printed on the program of the matches and publicly announced, those businesses play a similar role to sponsors in other sports. Before a match, a ritual called "chirichouzu" is held. You can see this at 3:08 and 7:52 in the video. This is a declaration "to fight fair and square without any weapons." Source :YouTube screenshot Next, the wrestler creates distance from the opponent, bends forward, and places his hands on the ground. This is called "shikiri" (仕切り). Then, with the signal of the referee, the wrestlers push each other. This is called "tachiai" (立合い). This series of events can be seen in the video. There are different means of attacking, such as thrusts, slapping, and body strikes. Kimarite (決まり手, winning move) refers to the move that the opponent is defeated by. Punching and grabbing the opponent's hair are prohibited moves in sumo. Summary of Japan’s National Sport Photo：Sumo "Sumo Match - Tokyo - 相撲," produced by TokyoStreetView – Japan The Beautiful, features conventions before matches and match footage of Japan’s national sport. From the cultural aspect of sumo that originates from Japanese Shinto to the spectacular matches, the video shows the sport at its best. Sumo is a fascinating martial art that a wide range of people including those who are interested in Japanese culture and martial arts lovers can enjoy! 【Official Website】Nihon Sumo Kyokai Official Website http://www.sumo.or.jp/En/

Takoyaki, a Classic Food Sold at Stands This video, titled "Japanese Street Food: Takosen" was uploaded by "Aden Films." Osaka in Japan's Kansai region is famous for okonomiyaki and takoyaki, but this time we'll be introducing takoyaki and "takosen," two popular "B-Grade" cuisines. The video also introduces a store that sells handmade takosen and shows how it's made. Japanese cuisine is often associated with sushi and kappo cuisine, but the king of B-grade gourmet foods, takoyaki, introduced here is also a legitimate Japanese dish. Today, takoyaki has made its way from East Asia to Southeast Asia and to the Americas as a representative Japanese food. Takoyaki and Takosen - A Look at How the Classic Street Foods Are Made! Photo：How to Make Takoyaki ・How To Make Takoyaki - Make the dough by adding water, egg, and yamaimo (Japanese yams) to flour - Boil the octopus in salted water, remove the slime and cut into pieces - Let the dough sit for a day and night to blend - Heat a specialty takoyaki machine and coat with a thin layer of oil and pour in the dough - Add ingredients such as green onions, red ginger, tenkasu, shredded cabbage, and so on and finally add the main ingredient - octopus. - Grill it while rolling it with a bamboo skewer until it is evenly golden brown. - Takoyaki is ready when it is fluffy and round - Top with sauce, green onions, dried seaweed, dried bonito flakes, etc. From 0:28 in the video, you can see how they cook a large batch of takoyaki at once on a big takoyaki machine. ・How To Make Takosen - Place the cooked takoyaki between shrimp flavored rice crackers - Like takoyaki, top with sauce and other toppings The popular toppings are the traditional okonomiyaki sauce, dried bonito flakes, dried seaweed, and mayonnaise, but in recent years, cheese, chili powder, and even chocolate sauce and maple syrup have become popular. You can see the takosen being put together at 6:03 in the video. The History of Takoyaki and Takosen Photo：takoyaki "Aizu-ya" is said to be the inventor of takoyaki, the comfort food of Osaka. In the 1960s, takoyaki stands and night stalls were everywhere, and could be found especially in places like Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori. Takoyaki was a popular food, but there was a lot of garbage because of it due to people eating it while walking. Eventually, takosen, introduced in the video, was created from the eco-friendly idea of reducing waste by sandwiching takoyaki between shrimp crackers reducing the materials required to hold and eat it. A Popular Souvenir! The Famous Takoyaki Shop "Wanaka" Photo：Wanaka's takoyaki Takosen is even available at izakaya and speciality stores. The shop featured in the video is Wanaka, a famous takoyaki shop. It's a specialty store for takoyaki and takosen, located mainly in Osaka. The store, found at a shopping mall in Fukuoka, is popular for its food stall-style design. Summary of Takoyaki and Takosen, the Kings of Japan's Food Stalls Photo：takosen Takoyaki and takosen are very simple Japanese foods. The best part is that there are many ways to enjoy them as you can add your own toppings and customize the recipe how you like! Try to find your own way to eat it! Why not sit down and enjoy a glass of beer with some delicious takoyaki after watching the amazing takoyaki chefs of Osaka's Wanaka?

A Video Guide to Popular Sightseeing Spots in the Ancient Capital, Kyoto The ancient city of Kyoto is one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Japan, visited by more than 50 million people per year. This 2 minutes video will cover the attractive destinations in Kyoto. You might be thinking "2 minutes can't possibly be enough time," but just take our word for it and press play! You won’t regret it! It's brimming with attractive destinations in Kyoto! Must-Visit Destinations in Kyoto! Photo：Fushimi Inari Shrine Kyoto has many historical spots registered as World Heritage Sites, such as The Golden Pavilion, The Silver Pavilion, Kiyomizudera, Nijo castle, Higashi Honganji temple, Nishi Honganji temple, and more. You don't want to miss the beautiful scenery of Fushimi Inari Shrine, ranked #1 on the list of most popular spots among foreign visitors. An amazing place to visit and also a sort of hole-in-the-wall location, is Kifune Shrine, which is famous for Mizuuranai mikuji. Mizuuranai mikuji is a piece of paper that shows your fortune when floating in water. It can be seen at 0:54 in the video. If you want to enjoy the scenic beauty of Arashiyama, use the Randen Keifuku Electric Railway Arashiyama Main Rail. For those looking to visit many places at once, you can also reserve a taxi tour or bus tour to save yourself some time. Even if you don't visit the famous sights, you might be able to see some of Japan's ancient and tasteful scenery, such as "Uchimizu," a traditional way of cooling down. This can be seen at 1:42 in the video. Enjoy a Traditional Culture Experience in Kyoto! Photo：Maiko If you're coming to Kyoto, we definitely recommend seeing a Maiko dance or trying Zazen meditation. You can also enjoy a demonstration by a tea ceremony practitioner or painting on Kiyomizu ware! These are all included in the video! These experiences are enjoyable for both children and adults alike, and what's more is, they can be enjoyed regardless of the weather. If you want to try the above-mentioned experiences, we recommend that you gather information at the tourist information center or book a visit on the website before visiting. Festivals and Events in Kyoto Kyoto is home to so many traditional festivals that it's rare to find a day when a festival isn't being held. The Aoi Festival, Gion Festival and Jidai Festival, known as the three major festivals of Kyoto, attract many tourists from both Japan and overseas. The Toji Kobo Market, held on the 21st of every month, is a popular place to buy kokeshi dolls and other unusual items. There are many other festivals to experience, such as "Gozan no Okuribi," a mountain bonfire, and more. Try to align your stay with some of Kyoto's major festivals if possible. Delicious Food in Kyoto Photo：Night view of the Kamogawa River and a cool terrace Kyoto is also a popular destination for travelers looking for gourmet food as well. Be sure to stop by Nishiki Market, which is known as "Kyoto's kitchen." It sells many traditional foods. If you want to walk around and eat, we recommend the Aburi Mochi sold in front of the gate of Imamiya Shrine. You can also check out the various sweets available at the shrine, such as mitarashi dango (a small dumpling with sweet soy sauce) at Shimogamo Shrine and Kuri mochi (a chestnut rice cake) at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. If you're planning to dine in Kyoto in the summer, we recommend the Kifune or Kamogawa areas where you can enjoy Kyoto cuisine with a view of the clear river. It's exceptional to have Kyoto cuisine while looking out the flow of the refreshing river. At 0:50 in the video, you can see a woman wearing a yukata enjoying the summer cool. Summary of Sightseeing in Kyoto As you can see, Kyoto has many traditional temples and shrines, wonderful scenery, and many festivals of high cultural value, all of which culminate to make Kyoto the ultimate tourist destination. In this 2-minute video, you can learn about traditional culture, cuisine, life in Kyoto, temples, shrines, festivals in Kyoto, and much more! Enjoy Japanese culture and the Japanese spirit of 'Wa'! 【Official Website】Kyoto Prefecture Website https://www.pref.kyoto.jp/en/index.html

Lotuses and Lanterns at Shinobazu Pond The video “TOKYO JAPAN Lotus Flowers in Tokyo Ueno park, lantern floating event at Shinobazu pond” (TOKYO JAPAN Lotus Flowers in Tokyo 上野公園・不忍池のハスと灯ろう流し 東京観光 花の名所案内), was created by “Discover Nippon.” Lotuses blooming on Shinobazu pond at Ueno park in Taito, Tokyo is a popular summer sight. We'll talk about the beautiful lotuses at Shinobazu pond as well as sightseeing information around the area. In the video, you can see the beautiful lotuses on Shinobazu pond and the lantern floating event along with relaxing music. The Beautiful Lotuses at Shinobazu Pond, Ueno Park Photo：Shinobazu pond at Ueno park Shinobazu Pond in Ueno Park is famous for its lotuses, which create a fantastic scene in the summer. It has a long history, and the lotuses in Ueno Park were once depicted in ukiyoe during the Edo period (1603-1868). You can take a closer look at the flowers from the "Lotus observation zone." Every lotus is unique, and it's fun to take a close look at the differences between each flower. You can see the beautiful lotuses in the beginning of the video. The turtles swimming elegantly in the pond will help you forget your everyday troubles. On Benten Island in Shinobazu Pond, there is a hexagonal pagoda called a Bentendo, which is a must-see attraction. It's introduced in the video at 2:15. The best time to see the lotuses differs from year to year, so we recommend checking the bloom conditions before visiting Ueno Park. The Traditional Japanese Event “Toro Nagashi” Photo：Toro Nagashi When the lotuses are in full bloom, the "Ueno Summer Festival" is held at Ueno park. Toro nagashi (paper lantern floating) produces an amazing atmosphere. The purpose of Toro nagashi in summer, is to send off the spirits of one's ancestors. Check out the video at 2:31 to see the lanterns floating on Shinobazu pond after sunset. This beautiful scene is quite moving. Recommended Route for Ueno Park Photo：Shinobazu pond, Ueno Park The lotuses blooming on the surface of Shinobazu pond is the epitome of the summer season. You can also use a paddle boat to explore the pond. It's nice to see the different seasons at Shinobazu pond as there are a variety of different features, including cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. Ueno park features several different museums with plenty to see. Ueno zoo is the oldest zoo in Japan, with over 3,000 animals, including the very popular pandas. There are also many hidden gems, such as museums and art galleries scattered throughout the city. Visit the Hanazono Inari Shrine or the Gojoten Shrine, 2 "Power Shrines" in the area. Summary of Lotuses and Lanterns at Shinobazu Pond In Ueno Park, there are many sightseeing spots where you can enjoy the unique Japanese atmosphere. Observe the beautiful flowers and visit the temples. Enjoy the video and see the beauty of Ueno Park, which is located right in the middle of the big city, Tokyo. ◆Ueno Park◆ 【Address】 Ikenohata 3-chome, Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo 【Access】A 2 minute walk from Ueno station on the JR, Tokyo Metro Ginza and Hibiya lines, and a 1 minute walk from Keisei Ueno station on the Keisei line. 【Hours】 5 am to 11 pm 【Telephone No.】03-3828-5644 【Tripadvisor】Shinobazu Pond https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066461-d3747622-Reviews-Shinobazu_Pond-Taito_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

A Video of Katsuura Big Hinamatsuri! This video, titled "かつうらビッグひな祭り 4K Katsura Big Hinamatsuri," was uploaded by "MOVIE JAPAN." It introduces Katsuura Big Hinamatsuri, an event held at Tomisaki Shrine in Katsuura City, Chiba Prefecture, in Japan’s Kanto Region. The many hina decorations on the stone steps of the shrine during Katsuura Big Hinamatsuri is truly a sight to behold. Most hina dolls are displayed on three to five tiers, but Katsuura Big Hinamatsuri at Tomisaki Shrine, shown in the video, has approximately 1,800 hina dolls displayed on 60 stone tiers. You can see this from 0:06 in the video. In Katsuura City, Chiba Prefecture, during Katsuura Big Hinamatsuri, hina dolls are displayed at various spots, including around Kazusa-Okitsu Station and Katsuura Marine Park. Hina Matsuri, a Traditional Holiday in Japan Hinamatsuri (Doll Festival) is held on March 3rd every year to pray for the healthy growth of girls. In houses where there are girls, they decorate the hina-dan with hina dolls, and celebrate their growth by eating chirashi-zushi, drinking the non-alcoholic shiro-zake ("white sake"), cake, and hina-arare, a type of rice cracker. Some families also have fun folding hina dolls with origami and singing songs. During Hina Matsuri various dolls decorate the hina-dan. These include imperial dolls representing the emperor and empress, courtesan dolls, musician dolls, dolls of warriors, and even servants. Check out the Big Hinamatsuri in Katsuura, Tokushima! The video shows Katsuura Big Hinamatsuri in Katsuura, Chiba. However, the Big Hinamatsuri Executive Committee of Katsuura, Tokushima and the NPO Awa Katsuura Idobata Juku also hold a similar event. At the Big Hinamatsuri in Tokushima, a pyramid-shaped hina-dan, measuring roughly 7 meters tall, can be seen on display during the event. More than 20,000 hina dolls are displayed at the event, and these dolls are donated from all over Japan. Donations of hina dolls are subject to a memorial service fee. Katsuura Hinamatsuri-go, Katsuura Hinamatsuri Hiking, the Katsuura Shopping Street Pedestrian Paradise Parade, and other events also take place during the event period. Summary of the Katsuura Big Hinamatsuri Introduction Video In this article, we introduced a video of the dynamic Katsuura Big Hinamatsuri. The hina-dan made on the stone steps of the shrine is a spectacular sight that is great for taking Instagram photos! There are many other large scale Hina Matsuri festivals in Japan as well, such as the "100-tier hinadan," so be sure to check them out during your visit to Japan. 【TripAdvisor】Katsuura Big Hinamatsuri https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021249-d10019630-Reviews-or10-Katsuura_Big_Hina_Doll_Festival-Katsuura_Chiba_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko in Hino, Shiga This video, titled "Good Sign Vol.14 "Hino" Hinamatsuri Travelogue" (Good Sign 第14回放送「日野」ひな祭り紀行), was uploaded by "Good Sign." It introduces Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko, a Hinamatsuri event in Hino, Shiga, located in Japan's Kansai region. Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko is an annual event held from early February to early March, from Okubo in southeastern Shiga, to the shopping arcade and merchant residences of Murai and Nishioji. The cityscape of Hino has a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of Japan's Showa Period. Hina dolls are displayed along the streets and in merchant houses. There are also special viewing windows called "sajiki-mado" (桟敷窓) with which you can enjoy dolls that are on display. This can be seen from 1:00 in the video. Check out the video to see what kind of event "Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko" is. Hinamatsuri - A Traditional Japanese Event Hinamatsuri is an event celebrated on March 3rd, traditionally known as "Momo no Sekku" (the Peach Festival) to wish for the healthy growth of girls by decorating hina dolls with peach-blossoms, serving hina-arare (sweet rice cakes), and Japanese sweets, and preparing food such as chirashizushi, a type of bright and colorful sushi. Hina dolls generally consist of a male and female doll (Dairibina, 内裏雛), three or five court ladies (Kanjo, 官女), five musicians (gonin bayashi, 五人囃子), two ministers (Daijin, 大臣), and the protectors (Shicho, 仕丁). The history of Hinamatsuri dates back to before the Edo period (1603-1868). Nowadays, Hinamatsuri is a popular event for girls, where hina dolls are decorated and chirashizushi, sweets, and cakes are prepared. Also, during the event, children sing “Ureshii Hinamatsuri” (Happy Hinamatsuri), which can be seen at the end of the video. Hino Hinamtsuri Kiko by the Hino Tourist Association "Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko" started in 2008 with the aim of making Hino livelier, says Minoru Nakata, the organizer of the event, shown at 1:12 in the video. In the past, hina dolls were brought back by merchants of Hino for their daughters when they went out on business. Hino was a plain town where women and children generally stayed in the home. Now, there are more than 150 places, including the Omi Hino Merchant Museum (近江日野商人館), Omi Hino Merchant Furusato Hall (近江日野商人ふるさと館), Hino Machikado Kanno (日野まちかど感応館), and Umamioka Watamuki Shrine (馬見岡綿向神社), as well as merchant houses with sajiki windows, private homes, and store counters decorated with hina dolls, attracting tourists to Hino. Take the bus bound for Kitabataguchi (北畑口) from JR Omihachiman Station (JR近江八幡駅) or Omi Railway Hino Station (近江鉄道日野駅), and get off at Okubo Nishi (大窪西) or the Mukaimachi (向町) bus stop. There is also a parking for those driving. You can also enjoy specialties, such as Omi Hino Beef, pickled vegetables from Hino, and Hino Udon. Summary of Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko, a Hinamatsuri Event in Hino, Shiga In this article, we introduced "Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko" along with the video "Good Sign Vol.14 "Hino" Hinamatsuri Travelogue." You can get a good idea of what Hino looks like during the event. In addition to old hina dolls, cute origami dolls made by kindergarteners can also be seen in the video. If you're headed over to Shiga Prefecture, consider dropping by "Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko"!

A Recipe for the Popular Neapolitan Pasta! This video, titled "Quick and Authentic! The Family Favorite Neapolitan Pasta! One-Pan Dish! Party Kitchen Cooking Recipes" (簡単本格！懐かしの『ナポリタン』の作り方【ワンパン】【料理レシピはParty Kitchen】), teaches you how to cook the popular Neapolitan pasta with easy to follow instructions and a touch of humor! Neapolitan spaghetti is, contrary to what most people expect of pasta, a traditional Japanese-style pasta dish using vegetables and tomato ketchup. Neapolitan spaghetti is a typical dish served at cafes and European-style restaurants all over Japan. After watching this video, you're sure to want to have a go at making this delicious pasta dish which has evolved with Japanese cuisine over the years. How Did the Neapolitan Pasta Dish Come to Be a Part of Japanese Cuisine? Photo：Neapolitan pasta Neapolitan pasta, named after the city Naples in Italy, may lead many people to believe it's an Italian recipe; however, this dish was actually created in Japan. It dates all the way back to post-war Japan. Due to the lack of food resources after the war, hotels had to come up with new ways to provide delicious food at a relatively low cost, and in doing so, created the Neapolitan spaghetti dish. Neapolitan spaghetti gained huge popularity in the Showa period (1926-1989 AD) in Japan. Hachioji city (八王子市, hachioujishi) in Tokyo even has its own special version of the dish using locally sourced ingredients called Hachioji Neapolitan which is quite popular. How to Make Neapolitan Spaghetti Source :YouTube screenshot One of the great things about this dish is that it can be made in a single frying pan, and tastes just as good as a dish you'd get at a restaurant. Check out the video to find out how it's made! For starters, as you can see at 0:13 in the video, you'll need to fry sliced onions, green peppers (sliced into rings), mushrooms, and thickly sliced bacon in a pan with some olive oil. Next, boil the pasta following the instructions on the packet (1:28) and once the boiling water has evaporated add in the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce. From there, add in the already softened vegetables and mix to cover the spaghetti and vegetables in the sauce. Finally, season to taste with salt and pepper, adding a little butter for creaminess and top it with powdered cheese and parsley to finish. Just looking at the prepared dish with its deep red sauce and healthy amount of vegetables is enough to make your mouth water! You can see the completed dish at 2:40 in the video. Summary of the Neapolitan Pasta Recipe Photo：Neapolitan pasta ingredients We hope you enjoyed the Neapolitan pasta recipe video. Be sure to have a go at making this surprisingly easy yet delicious Japanese dish the next time you feel like having some italian! Don't forget to use the video as a guide too! If you're coming from overseas, we highly recommend trying out this Japanese classic. There are many well-established restaurants specializing in Neapolitan spaghetti that are well worth the visit!

Stay at a Hotel Near Universal Studios Japan! This is the official promotional video for The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan®, made by The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan to promote the hotel located in front of USJ. Source :YouTube screenshot Universal Studios Japan is a theme park that both children and adults can enjoy, and is one of the top tourist attractions in Japan. If you want to make the most of your visit to USJ, we recommend booking a stay at the popular Park Front Hotel, located in front of the USJ Main Gate! This video shows the beautiful interior of The Park Front Hotel. You'll have an amazing time in the park, feeling as if you were a movie star! Enjoy the video on The Park Front Hotel which has a superb reputation on hotel and ryokan review and comparison sites. What Is The Park Front Hotel? Source :YouTube screenshot The best thing about staying at The Park Front Hotel is the interior and the services. The hotel is decorated in a way that makes you feel as if you're in America! The New York Lobby at the main entrance, the Los Angeles Lobby at the park side entrance and the Airport Runway are wonderful spaces that will make you forget you are in Japan. The elevator hall is also stylishly designed in the image of New York's Times Square. The museum is full of Instagrammable spots! Take a look at 0:38 in the video to see them. Open the door to your dreams! Make Wonderful Memories at The Park Front Hotel! Source :YouTube screenshot The Superior Floor, which offers a wide view of famous landmarks, is also an attractive feature. The Park Front Hotel offers various room types, such as the Park View Room and Deluxe Room. Take your pick! The rooms are shown at 3:12 in the video. If you're planning on dining at The Park Front Hotel, we recommend Buffet Dining Akala. The restaurant was inspired by Hawaiin cuisine and serves delicious tropical dishes. It can be seen at 2:26 in the video. A variety of delicious dishes are introduced here. Summary of The Park Front Hotel If you're visiting the Universal Studios Japan area, you definitely want to stay at a special place. By booking a room at The Park Front Hotel, you're guaranteed to have a fantastic, luxurious time. Check out the video to see the interior of the hotel. You'll be transported to the world of Universal Studios! Relax and rejuvenate at The Park Front Hotel and prepare for the following day's sightseeing! Thanks to the hotel's accessibility, you can visit other places nearby, too. ◆The Park Front Hotel At Universal Studio Japan◆ 【Address】6-2-52 Shimaya, Konohana-ku, Osaka City, Osaka 【Room Rates】Varies by package and season 【Access】A 1 minute walk from Universal Studios Station 【Booking Telephone No.】06-6460-0109 【Parking】Available 【Official Website】The Park Front Hotel At Universal Studios Japan /The Park Front Hotel https://parkfront-hotel.com/ 【Official Website】Universal Studios Japan｜USJ https://www.usj.co.jp/

About the Popular Location “Itoman City,” in Okinawa Prefecture “Itoman City Tourism Promotion Video_Meals (Japanese Version)” (糸満市観光ＰＲムービー＿食事編（日本語版)) produced by “itomancityhall” is a video introducing popular cuisine that can be enjoyed in Itoman City (糸満市, Itoman-Shi), Okinawa Prefecture (沖縄県, Okinawa-Ken). There's tons of delicious food introduced in this video, such as classic Okinawan cuisine, and deserts that are ranked highly on Japanese review sights. We recommend taking notes! Enjoy delicious food near the ocean of Okinawa! In this video, two women visit sightseeing spots in Itoman City, Okinawa, and introduce exquisite gourmet dishes. Which one has your mouth watering? Classic Cuisine of the Popular Japanese Tourist Destination “Itoman City, Okinawa” Photo：Okinawa Soba Noodles Itoman City in Okinawa Prefecture, has a lot to offer when it comes to gourmet food. Since the cultures and recipes of China, Southeast Asia, and the Unites States have had influence on Okinawan cuisine, it is quite different from what you can find in other parts of Japan. There are many restaurants and eateries in Itoman City that serve delicious Okinawan food. Let's take a look and see what they've got! If we're talking Okinawan dishes, there's “Goya Chanpuru,” a type of bitter melon and fried meat, “Okinawan Soba,” and “Soki Soba Noodles” characterized by its refreshing soup, are some of the famous dishes of the area. In the video, you can see the delicious “Okinawa Soba Teishoku (Set Meal)” and “Honejiru (Bone Soup),” at 0:06 in the video. Here are some recommended locations with traditional Okinawan cuisine: “Rafuthy”- a typical Okinawan meat dish, “Ishigaki Beef”- excellent to eat as a steak, “Taco Rice” with tomato-based salsa over rice, “Pork Egg,” “Ninjin Shirishiri” (Grated carrot stir-fried), “Irabu-jiru (Soup), and “Tofuyo” (Okinawa-style fermented Tofu)- a classic menu item of Okinawan dinner. As introduced from 2:22 in the video, if you enjoy these typical Okinawan dishes with Okinawa's Awamori at night, you're sure to be satisfied with your trip. Enjoy sightseeing and Japanese food in Itoman City! Popular Ingredients and Deserts in “Itoman City, Okinawa” Source :YouTube screenshot There are some slightly different ingredients and cooking methods, as well as some delicious desserts. The Farmer's Market “Itoman Umanchu market,” in Nishizaki town (西崎町, Nishizaki-Cho) in Itoman City, is a place where you can purchase fresh Okinawan ingredients like “Shima Rakkyo” (a type of leek), and “Umi Budo” (sea grapes) at affordable prices. This is introduced in the video from 0:28. In addition to Okinawan ingredients, fresh vegetables are also sold. The fish market “Osakana Center” near Umanchu Market, which is introduced at 0:48 in the video, sells fresh seafood. It is a luxurious place where you can enjoy fish dishes while eating and walking around in style. This is a must-see spot for those who love to eat. Additionally, in Itoman city, desert menus such as “Red Beni Tarts,” “Sata Andagi (Okinawan Donuts),” shaved Ice, “Shirokuma,” and Mango are also popular. After lunch, why not try these deserts to top off a delicious meal. Eat plenty of delicious food in Itoman city, with its amazing Okinawan cuisine! Summary of the Popular Japanese Tourist Destination “Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture” Photo：Bibi Beach Itoman “Itoman City Tourism Promotional Video_Meals (Japanese Version)” produced by “itomancityhall” is a video introducing gourmet food that can be enjoyed at the popular Japanese tourist destination “Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture” Good meals are an important thing to consider when traveling. You can dine at hotel restaurants or local ramen shops, but don’t you think that you'll be able to enjoy your trip even more by trying some of the local cuisine? Come visit Itoman City, Okinawa, and visit its many tourist attractions, including “Okinawa Peace Memorial Park,” “Himeyuri Peace Memorial Museum,” “Himeyuri Tower,” and “Bibi Beach Itoman.” 【Trip Advisor】Itoman City https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1023466-Itoman_Okinawa_Prefecture-Vacations.html

Aizuwakamatsu Castle (Tsuruga Castle) in Fukushima Prefecture "Japan's Top 100 Castles｜Aizuwakamatsu Castle/Tsuruga Castle｜Fukushima Prefecture" (日本100名城　会津若松城　鶴ヶ城　福島県　Aizuwakamatsu Castle), produced by “castle shrine” is a video that introduces the highlights of Aizuwakamatsu Castle, a hirayama style castle. Aizuwakamatsu Castle, located in Otemachi, Aizuwakamatsu city, Fukuoka prefecture, is known locally by its other name, Tsuruga Castle. Other than being chosen as one of the "Top 100 Castles of Japan," it was also chosen as one of "Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots," due to there being approximately 1,000 cherry blossom trees in Tsuruga Castle Park, which was built on the castle ruins. During the cherry blossom season, there are illumination events held here, and many tourists come to visit the castle. In this article, we'll introduce the highlights, history, and tourist information for Aizuwakamatsu Castle. The video shows the magnificent stone wall, castle tower, and inside the grounds of the Aizuwakamatsu Castle. Be sure to follow along as you read the article! Aizuwakamatsu Castle: The History of the Castle Photo：Aizuwakamatsu Castle Aizuwakamatsu Castle is said to have originated when Ashina Naomori built the Higashi Kurokawa Yakata in 1384. At that time, it was known as Kurokawa Castle or Odakagi Castle; however, when Gamo Ujisato became castle lord, a castle tower was built, and it came to be known as Tsuruga Castle. It is known as an impregnable castle due to withstanding the onslaught of the new government forces for a month, despite the tragedy of the Byakkotai during the Boshin war, following the rule of the Aizu clan. In the 7th year of Meiji (1874), it was demolished leaving only the stone wall. However, in the 40th year of Showa (1965), it was reconstructed, and in the 23rd year of the Heisei (2011), the thatch was replaced with red tiles as part of a restoration project, making it the only red-tile castle tower in Japan. A shachi (mythical carp with the head of a lion and the body of a fish) is raised above the castle tower, and 2-carat diamonds are embedded in the center of its eyes. It is also designated as a national historic site under the name of Wakamatsu Castle Ruins. Highlights of Aizuwakamatsu Castle Photo：Aizuwakamatsu Castle Mushabashiri First up is the Kitademaru Otemon gate, which was built using large stones and can be seen at 0:20 in the video. Next up is Tsubakisaka and the stone wall of Taikomon Gate. The stairs which are built into the stone wall are called “Mushabashiri” and can be seen at 1:17 and 3:05 of the footage, are said to be built so that soldiers can intercept and engage enemies through quick asccess to the top of the wall. From the castle tower, which can be seen at 2:01 in the video, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the cityscape of Aizuwakamatsu. The Tetsumon Gate, which can be seen from the castle tower, is shown at 2:09. The name Tetsumon comes from the surface being plated with iron (鉄, "Tetsu" is iron in Japanese). Another highlight is the natural stone wall of Rokabashi Bridge. Sightseeing Information for Aizuwakamatsu Castle Source :YouTube screenshot At the beginning of the video, we are introduced to Aizuwakamatsu Station on the JR Banetsu West Line. To get to Aizuwakamatsu Castle, take the "Haikara-san" bus from Aizuwakamatsu station, get off at Tsuruga Castle Entrance, and from there, it's a 5 minute walk. There's also a paid parking lot. The castle tower is also an exhibition room for the Wakamatsu Castle Tower Historical Museum and the business hours are from 8:30 AM-5:00 PM; and there is an admission fee. In the Tsuruga Castle inner citadel, there's Koujou no Tsukihi, and there's also a track and field arena, city pool, and the Fukushima Prefectural Museum at the San no Maru ruins. It explains the history of Tsuruga Castle in a way that is easily understood. Near the Aizuwakamatsu Castle, there's the popular historical spot, Matsudaira Family Mausoleum, in which the Aizu-Matsudaira Family is buried. Summary of Aizuwakamatsu Castle Photo：Aizuwakamatsu Castle in spring This video "Japan's Top 100 Castles｜Aizuwakamatsu Castle/Tsuruga Castle｜Fukushima Prefecture," introduces the highlights of Aizuwakamatsu Castle and the amazing view from the castle tower. For those interested in Aizuwakamatsu Castle after reading this article, why not learn about Aizu’s Warring States period history at Tsuruga Castle Park, which is always lively with tourists. Receiving a goshuin seal will surely make your trip to Fukushima prefecture a memorable one. ◆Aizuwakamatsu (Tsuruga Castle)　Facility Overview◆ 【Address】1-1 Otemachi, Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture 〒965-0873 【Access】Take the circuit bus “Haikara-san” from Aizuwakamatsu Station, get off at Tsuruga Castle Entrance, and it's 5 minutes walking. 【Admission fee】Adults \¥410, Children \¥150 【Hours】8：30～17：00 【Closures】None 【Parking】Available（requires toll） 【Telephone No】0242-27-4005 【Official Website】Aizuwakamatsu Tourism Bureau｜Tsuruga Castle Aizuwakamatsu Castle Oyakuen Matsudaira Family Mausoleum｜ Surpassing the eternity of time, the castle tower of the end of the Edo era is now revived http://www.tsurugajo.com/language/eng/ 【Tripadvisor】Aizuwakamatsu Castle (Tsuruga Castle) https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g780850-d1383989-Reviews-Tsuruga_jo_Castle-Aizuwakamatsu_Fukushima_Prefecture_Tohoku.html

A Special Interview With Youji Yamamoto! This time, we'll explore the charm of fashion designer Youji Yamamoto through the video "Legend｜What Making Clothes Means to Youji Yamamoto" (レジェンド、山本耀司の服作りが意味すること), released by "VOGUE JAPAN." Youji Yamamoto, featured in the video, is a designer who has been at the forefront of fashion since 1981, continuing to show off his collections in Paris. It's even said that there's a new Youji Yamamoto craze happening among the younger generation today. At 1:18 in the video, we're introduced to the model Kozue Akimoto. In addition, at 1:25 in the video,Naoki Kobayashi, a popular member of "The Third Generation J SOUL BROTHERS is also introduced. Who is Youji Yamamoto? Source :YouTube screenshot Youji Yamamoto is a designer born in 1943, and as of June 2020, he is 76 years old. After studying fashion at the Bunka Fashion College, he became interested in prêt-à-porter (high-quality ready-made clothing) after receiving the Soen and Endo awards. In 1977, he made his debut with East Collection (Tokyo Collection), attracting worldwide attention for his innovative designs. Youji Yamamoto later married a woman who was a patterner for his brand "Youji Yamamoto." His daughter, Rimi Yamamoto, is also active as a designer for her own brand. The Activities of Youji Yamamoto Source :YouTube screenshot As the saying goes, "The 20th century was an era of design," and Youji Yamamoto is credited with creating a number of innovative designs. His fashionable, age- and height-neutral collection of fashionable, "mode-style" clothing has captivated many fans. Youji Yamamoto is known as a dog lover, and he has designed clothes with his dog as a motif. He is also involved in the design of items such as hats and accessories. In 2015, he began trying new activities, such as a collaboration collection with Adidas for the tennis French Open. Summary of Fashion Designer Youji Yamamoto Source :YouTube screenshot The Youji Yamamoto brand featured in the video is available in stores in Japan as well as online. In addition to the men's line, you'll find plenty of women's items as well. If you want to learn more about Youji Yamamoto's activities, you can check out the NHK program featuring him or check out his fashion books. 【Official Website】Youji Yamamoto Official Site https://www.yohjiyamamoto.co.jp/

Introducing a tourist information video for Narusawa, Yamanashi. This video introduces Narusawa, Narumitsuru county, Yamanashi in Japan's Kanto region, using time lapse and an air footage from a drone. It was produced by “Narusawa Sightseeing Site.” The title of the video is “Narusawa tour PR movie（鳴沢村観光PRムービー）”. Narusawa, Minamitsuru in Yamanashi is located at the bottom of Mt. Fuji, surrounded by nature. Narusawa, Minamitsuru, Yamanashi, in Fuji Hakone Izu national park, has an elevation of ~3,300 ft. Be sure to watch the video as you follow along with this article to learn more about Narusawa, a place where many tourists come to visit and enjoy the view of the beautiful, World Cultural Heritage site, Mt.Fuji. Sightseeing at Narusawa, Yamanashi Photo：Narusawa Ice Cave Aokigahara Forest is a very dense and wide sea of trees. "Narusawa Ice Cave," which you can see in the video at 0:19, is a sacred place created by nature. We recommend walking around Fujigoko, Sankodai, Gokodai as well as one of the hiking routes of Mt. Fuji to experience the magnificent Japanese nature. Enjoy the Beautiful View of Mt. Fuji in Narusawa, Yamanashi Photo：Mt. Fuji Fuji, which takes on different appearances depending on the season and time of day, is great for taking Instagram photos. Watch the video at 0:31 to see how the shadow of Mt Fuji appears over Susono city. The shadow of Mt. Fuji floating in a sea of clouds is a very rare view only available from a viewpoint close to the top of another mountain. Pearl Fuji, which can be seen at 0:37 in the video, shows a full moon seemingly resting on the top of Mount Fuji. It's a spectacular view that can only be seen if the weather is just right. One of the appeals of climbing Mount Fuji is that you can enjoy the magnificent nature. (Also the bragging rights that come with it). There are several different ways to enjoy sightseeing at Mt. Fuji. If you are climbing Mt Fuji, look up the stars from the 5th station. Enjoy the cherry blossom views of Tongenji Temple when the temperatures warm up in the spring, watch the maple leaves turn a magnificent red in the fall, admire the scenery of the nearby villages, or enjoy the views around Mt. Fuji. Activities and Gourmet Food in Narusawa, Yamanashi Photo：Hoto noodle Try different activities in the nature of Narusawa, Yamanashi. Fujiten Snow resort, Forest Adventure Fuji, Narusawa Ikiki park, and Okuniwa nature park (which you can see in the video at 2:02) are all great places you can visit. Unsurprisingly, several golf courses are also available in the magnificent nature of Narusawa, Yamanashi, so if you enjoy playing golf be sure to check it out. For gourmet food, we recommend you visit Koyodai Tenbo Rest house and Roadside Station Narusawa in the Fuji Goko area. The local specialty cuisine includes “Hoto noodles” and “Yoshida Udon.” Roadside Station Narusawa also has the “Narusawa Museum of Mt Fuji” where you can learn about the history and nature of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding area. There is a life-sized model of dinosaur, a natural walking path in a lava tube, and an observatory to enjoy a whole view of Mt. Fuji. Fun events that occur throughout the year in Narusawa include: “Narusawa Tsutsuji Festival,” “Narusawa Harvest Festival,” “Narusawa Agriculture Festival,” “Fuji Narusawa Koyo Roadrace,” and the “Blueberry Festival.” We also recommend booking a hotel or ryokan near Kyuka village and enjoying the natural hot springs. Summary of Narusawa, Yamanashi As you can see in the video, there is so much to see and enjoy in the nature around Mt. Fuji. Which sightseeing spot captured your attention? There are many more popular tourist attractions such as “Blueberry picking,” “Hot springs Yurari,” where you can relax in an onsen with the spectacular Mt. Fuji right in front of your eyes, the “Paddy field,” “Narusawa indoor tennis court,” and more. Be sure to visit Narusawa and discover your favorite tourist spot! If you want to enjoy the fascinating natural scenery to your heart's content, please visit these popular locations in Narusawa, Yamanashi 【Official Website】Narusawa, Narumitsuru, Yamanashi, Town Hall Website https://www.vill.narusawa.yamanashi.jp/forms/top/top.aspx 【Official Website】Home page, Narusawa Official Sightseeing site Narusawa Sansaku Guide https://www.narusawa-kanko.jp/

About Yumori Tanakaya at the Nasu-Shiobara Hot Springs Area of Tochigi Prefecture This video, titled "An Original Promotional Video of Yumori Tanakaya, Shiobara Hot Springs in Tochigi: A Very Well-Received inn With Outdoor Baths With an Incredible View and Tasty Grilled Dishes," (絶景渓流野天風呂と炉端料理が人気の宿【栃木県　塩原温泉　湯守田中屋オリジナルPV】), is a promotional video for Yumori Tanakaya, a Japanese-style inn in the Shiobara Onsen (hot springs) area of Tochigi Prefecture. The Japanese hot spring inn Yumori Tanakaya is located in Nikko National Park's Class 1 Special Zone and is a popular inn with a history dating back to 1884. Enjoy the splendor of the once-in-a-lifetime ryokan (Japanese-style inn), popular on review and comparison sites. The Healing Effects of the Shiobara Hot Springs Source :YouTube screenshot Shiobara Onsen is a hidden gem that has been flowing directly from the source since before the Edo Period (1603 – 1868). The spring is a sulfate hot spring of chloride and bicarbonate (sodium and calcium), and its effective against burns, gout, diabetic gallstones, cholecystitis, cuts, obesity, skin diseases, gynecological diseases, arteriosclerosis, constipation, and more. Enjoy a relaxing time at the natural hot springs of Shiobara Oami which have been flowing for 1,200 years. A luxurious Stay at the Fabulous Hot Springs of Yumori Tanakaya Photo：Ryuka Falls Promenade Yumori Tanakaya has a variety of facilities. The baths include a natural hot spring bath, a ravine bath, and a large bathhouse with a view. It's fun to enjoy touring the different baths, such as the mixed-baths, the riverbed bath, the cave bath, and the women-only beauty bath. You don't have to stay overnight to experience the outdoor baths and their vast amenities; you can casually stop by on a day trip as well. You'll have an excellent time enjoying the natural scenery while crossing the Ryuka Bridge, a 15 minute-walk from the inn (seen at 1:10 in the video). After enjoying the open-air baths and sightseeing around the area, relax in the Japanese style rooms. One of the charms of Yumori Tanakaya is that you can spend your time however you please. Yumori Tanakaya's Exquisite Cuisine Source :YouTube screenshot The best part of staying at any Japanese-style inn is surely savoring the delicious Japanese cuisine while relaxing in a yukata. You can enjoy a luxury dinner, made using rich, local ingredients, at the hotel (1:51). The made to order fireside dishes are a popular menu item, limited to eight groups a day. Another feature of Yumoriya is its extensive selection of local sake and wine. A Japanese banquet plan is also available, so we recommend gourmet trips for large groups. The lounge, serving fresh coffee, is shown at 1:27. The coffee is roasted in Ginza, Tokyo and “Forest Air,” is one of the top choices. Summary of Yumori Tanakaya The video shows the Instagrammable scenery of the nature-rich Nasu-Shiobara area and the luxurious time that can be had there. The popular onsen resort, Yumori Tanakaya, welcomes you! Room rates vary by season and plan, so we recommend that you book your room in advance on the official website or on a travel website so you can relax without any worry. Take a break from the daily grind and enjoy a relaxing stay at this luxury inn. ◆Yumori Tanakaya ◆ 【Address】6 Shiobara, Nasushiobara, Tochigi Prefecture 329-2921 【Access】Approximately 50 minutes by bus from Nasushiobara Station 【Parking Facilities】Free Parking Available for 30 Vehicles 【Telephone No】 +81-287-32-3232 【Tripadvisor】 Nasushiobara City https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1021427-Nasushiobara_Tochigi_Prefecture_Kanto-Vacations.html

Introducing the Cat Café Culture of Japan! This video is titled "Cat Café Nyaon PV" (猫カフェ 猫音（ニャオン）PV) and is a promotional video for Cat Café Nyaon, a cat café in Osaka. In Japan, there are cat cafes, where you can spend time playing with charming cats. At a cat café, you can feed a wide variety of cats and play with them with various toys. It is also fun to take photos of pretty cats climbing on the cat towers. They are very photogenic. Cat cafes are cafes where people drink and eat. As such, they serve you delicious food in a hygienic container with a lid as shown from 1:14. Friendly cats are allowed in the dining area, too. They come on top of the table and invite you to play. They are very cute. Enjoy the modern Japanese culture of cat cafes as shown in the video. What Are Japan's Cat Cafes? Photo：Cat cafe The origin of cat cafes goes back to Nekokaen, opened in Taiwan in 1998. In Japan, the first cat café opened in Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture in Japan's Kansai region in 2004. The history of cat cafes is still very short, and it is a modern Japanese culture. However, there are many cat café fans who want to spend a fun time with cats. A movie called ‘Cat Café (猫カフェ Nekokafe)’ was released in 2018. It was a really hot topic at the time. Since the cats at the cat cafes are prone to stress, most cafes give them a regular health check. There are some cat cafes where you can meet pedigree cats, while others keep mixed breed or abandoned cats. There are also adoption cafes, too, where you can adopt a cat of your choice. If you want to get a cat in Japan, perhaps you can visit one of these places. About Cat Café Nyaon Source :YouTube screenshot Cat Café Nyaon shown in the video is in the Naniwa district of Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture. As you approach the front door of the cat world, cat ornaments welcome you. This is shown from 0:07. Once in the café, you are in the world of cats. You are surrounded by cat-related items such as picture books and other cat-like objects. You can see the inside of the café from 0:27 in the video. You can spot other small cat fixtures throughout the video as well. How many can you spot? At Cat Café Nyao, six café cats entertain visitors. With these cute cats, you should be able to take photos perfect for Instagram. Let’s Go to a Cat Café! Photo：A napping cat In Kyoto, where many foreign tourists visit for sightseeing, there are cat cafes such as Tango in Saiin, that is easily accessed from Kyoto station. There is also Jiji in Uji, Mocha in Kawara Town, Gallery Cats Eye in Maruta Town and Marumari in Shugakuin. There are many more cat cafes in Ikebukuro, Shinjuku and Akihabara in Tokyo. There are various cat cafes in Chiba Prefecture, Nara Prefecture and Fukuoka Prefecture in addition to Saitama Prefecture, Yokohama City, Nagoya City and Osaka City. Why not visit a cat café during your stay in Japan. Summary of Japan's Cat Cafes Source :YouTube screenshot As seen in the video, cat cafes are a part of Japanese culture. You can be surrounded by many kinds of cats and spend a relaxing time with them. The admission varies from one café to another. You pay around 1,000 yen per hour at most cat cafés for admission. Food and drinks that you order are charged separately. Please be aware that there are many rules for spending time with the animals. You can check the café ranking, recommendations and opening hours on the internet prior to your visit. We hope you find a fantastic cat café. ◆Cat Café ~ Nyaon ~ ◆ 【Address】3-7-24, Nihonbashi Higashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture, 556-0025　Japan 【Access】1 minute-walk from Exit １－A5 of Ebisu Station on Subway Sakaisuji Line 【Admission】1,080 Yen～/60 minutes, 1,480 Yen～/90 minutes (drinks charged separately） 【Hours】Around 13:45～21:00 【Closures】Not regularly closed 【Parking】No 【Telephone No.】06-7503-5702 【Official Website】Cat Café ~ Nyaon ~ | A secret café for adults and cats http://nyaon.co.jp/ 【TripAdviser】Cat Café Nyaon https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g14127654-d9917477-Reviews-Neko_Cafe_Nyaon-Naniwa_Osaka_Osaka_Prefecture_Kinki.html

The Limited Express Sightseeing Train From Tokyo to Izu: Saphir Odoriko - All Cars First Class or Better This video, titled "The Opening of Saphir Odoriko - All Seats First Class or Better" (「サフィール踊り子」公開 全座席がグリーン車以上), was released by "KyodoNews." The video of the news was made open to the press in December 2019. The Limited express train “Saphir Odoriko” will operate on Tokyo-Shinjuku・Shizuoka-izukyuushimoda route, and it will be entered into train schedules by March 14th, 2020. The characteristics of the Saphir Odoriko are its private rooms, and first class or higher seating. It will become a frequently used line connecting the Metropolitan area to Izu. Please watch the video for an inside look at the luxurious accommodations, and to feel the high class nature of this limited express sightseeing train that allows for a comfortable journey between Tokyo and Izu. Saphir Odoriko: All Seats "Green" Source :YouTube screenshot After the Super View Odoriko of JR East is decommissioned in March 2020, the Saphir Odoriko (Railway series: E261) limited express sightseeing train is a brand new train that will grant easy access to popular sightseeing locations around Izu. The namesake "Saphir" in French means "sapphire" reminiscent of its appearance which looks like the beautiful blue sea and sky in Izu. Saphir Odoriko has 8 cars with a capacity of 164 people and the first car (which is a premium Green Car) has skylight seating, so when traveling towards Shimoda passengers can feel the natural light of the sky with luxury 1 to 1 seating accommodating up to 20 people in each row. This can be seen at 0:56 in the video. The seating in the 2nd and 3rd cars are for groups of families and friends, and the private green rooms placed in them can accommodate 4 to 6 people. The seating in cars 5 to 8 are Green Cars and have 1 by 2 (◼+◼◼) seating. They are introduced at 1:29 in the video. Source :YouTube screenshot In addition, car 4 is a dining car, and is made in the style of an open noodle bar, so you can enjoy some great tasting noodles during your journey. According to the chief of vehicles at JR East's railroad technology center, the appearance of the "Saphir Odoriko" is a metallic blue that is based on the beautiful colors that can be seen in Izu's natural scenery ( 2:05). You can see the train's appearance at 0:14 in the video. In 2020, the popular toy train manufacturer"Plarail" and the model train manufacturer N scale are going to release versions of "Saphir Odoriko", so they might be great gift ideas. Facilities on the Saphir Odoriko Photo：A woman using a laptop on a train Conscious about the upcoming Tokyo Olympics, the facilities on board the “Saphir Odoriko” were designed to accommodate the large influx of inbound tourists, and are thus equipped with large luggage compartments, and free Wi-Fi services. In the private green rooms, luggage compartments are installed inside the room itself. Every seat on the Saphir Odoriko also comes with its own personal electrical outlets for charging laptops, phones, and other electronic devices. That being said, you won’t need to worry about preserving data and battery life while riding on the “Saphir Odoriko”, and can instead use your time freely and effectively. Summary of the Saphir Odoriko On the way to popular sightseeing spots in Izu, you won’t need to worry about traffic jams or if the train is running on time as it’s a reputable railway. As shown in the video, with the light pouring in through the skylights, and the train’s high-class feel, you’re sure to have a relaxing, unforgettable experience traveling with friends or family on the Saphir Odoriko. As of this news' release, the Saphir Odoriko is scheduled to make a round trip once per day between Tokyo and Izu. The currently announced stops for the Saphir Odoriko are: Tokyo station, Shinjuku station, and Izukyuushimoda station, but please keep in mind that these are still subject to change. For ticket prices, or to make reservations, please stop by a JR ticket office.

Introducing Loco Solare This video is titled "Team Official｜Loco Solare｜Promotional Video" (チーム公認 Loco Solare プロモーションビデオ). It was produced by "sweet journey." It introduces women's curling, that came into the spotlight at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics. The "Sodane" (roughly translated as "yeahhh" or "that's it") shouting during games and the phrase "mogu mogu time" (roughly translated as "munching time") when the players ate a snack at half-time, became popular buzzwords, and many media outlets covered the event, leading to a rise in the popularity of curling. Have you heard of Hokkaido's curling team Loco Solare? In this article, we'll introduce curling and "Loco Solare" along with videos. Enjoy the promotional video of the girls behind the popular winter sport! About the Curling Team Loco Solare Source :YouTube screenshot The curling team "Loco Solare" has been active as "LS Kitami" since 2010, but was renamed "Loco Solare" in 2018. Their training base is Advics Tokoro Curling Hall. The team members appearing in the video include Representative Director Mari Motohashi (video 0:13), Yuko Suzuki (0:17), Yurika Yoshida (0:18), Chinami Yoshida (0:19), May Fujisawa (0:21), and Coach Onodera (1:05). Loco Solare excelled at home and abroad, winning their first national championships in 2016 and a silver medal at the world championships, before winning a bronze medal at the PyeongChang Olympics in 2018. They became famous as the "Curling girls" overnight. In addition, the media often covered the "Mogu Mogu Time" in which the team ate nutritional snacks during dead time during the matches, garnering widespread attention. What is Curling? Source :YouTube screenshot According to Loco Solare's official website, "Curling is a winter sport in which teams count their points by sliding stones across the ice in an attempt to secure the closest spot to the center of a circle called the "house." It's also known as "chess on ice" because of the strategy involved in it. The more you know about the rules and how scoring works, the more you can enjoy watching the game. Loco Solare is made up of five members with four taking part in the competition at one time. Curling has become an official Olympic sport since 1998, in the Nagano Winter Olympics. Mixed double curling, in which boys and girls are paired, has become an official event since the Pyeongchang Olympics. Curling emphasizes strategizing against the opposing team while accurately sliding the stones and using brushes to adjust speed and direction. You can see pitching and sweeping at 1:08 in the video. It'll be interesting to see if Loco Solare will be able to win a gold medal after taking home bronze at the last Winter Olympics. Summary of Loco Solare Source :YouTube screenshot The promotional video for Loco Solare introduces the shows the teamwork, cheerful atmosphere, and serious practice of the women's curling team. In the video, the players are shown at 1:05 and 1:26, relaxing in their everyday clothing; a rare sight. The matches are tense and require a great deal of concentration, but the cheery atmosphere and smiling faces of Loco Solare is their strength! Watch this video to see the teamwork of the women's curling team, Loco Solare! 【Official Website】Loco Solare https://locosolare.jp/

Introducing the Traditional Japanese Craft, Shosaku Fishing Rods! This video, "Nippon Handiwork Encyclopedia x Shosaku Rod （ニッポン手仕事図鑑 × 竿昭作（山野正幸））", is a video that introduces the "Kawaguchi's Traditional Japanese Fishing Rods" (川口和竿 竿昭作), a shop that makes traditional Japanese fishing rods. The company shown in the video is a workshop in Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture, where traditional Japanese rods are made using traditional techniques. Shosaku's fishing rods are works of art, with each one made from carefully selected raw materials. Their rods are of very high quality and are often featured in the media. If you're an avid fisherman, we recommend trying out one of these fishing rods! Sao Shosaku Fishing Rods Source :YouTube screenshot The origin of Kawaguchi's bamboo rods is said to be the production of bamboo fishing rods using materials such as high quality Hotei Bamboo and Mambo that grow naturally in the Shiba River basin. Masayuki Yamano, the traditional Japanese fishing rod craftsman introduced in the video, is the second-generation owner of Yamano Fishing Rods, a company that continues to produce the finest fishing rods by passing on the traditional skills of its craftsmen. Made of supple, delicate bamboo, these high-end Japanese rods are stronger than their appearance suggests. Also, as the craftsman Masayuki Yamano tells us at 2:06 in the video, Japanese fishing rods are very flexible and strong and have a good feel to them, making them quite popular. Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see from the video 2:48, there were 200 craftsmen of Japanese fishing rods in the early Showa period (around 1930 AD), but now there are only four, and Masayuki Yamano is one of them. You can also see the production process of these precious Japanese rods in the video. They're made using a large number of specialized tools. Try Fishing at the Lakes and Rivers of Japan, With a Traditional Japanese Fishing Rod! Source :YouTube screenshot Many people are interested in fishing at Japanese rivers and come from overseas to do so. This is explained at 4:49 in the video. If you're unfamiliar with fishing, we recommend that you try out different types of fishing for things like small carp and sardines. In particular, the Tanago and Kofiro rod's 8-pieces with 6 inch grips, are about 1 meter in length, and they are easy to use thanks to the supple bamboo they are made of. If you would like to use a higher-grade fishing rod, try the Yamano fishing tackle shop that sells high-quality fishing rods made by Shosaku. Shosaku's rods are also sold at online retailers such as Amazon, and there are new products at great prices, so you can easily purchase a high-quality rod. Summary of Sao Shosaku's Fishing Rods Source :YouTube screenshot The video introduces the craftsman's commitment to making traditionally crafted fishing rods using traditional techniques. The easy-to-use fishing rods made by Saoshosaku are recommended for those who are looking for a higher quality fishing rod. At 0:20 in the video, the craftsman says, "Good things will never go away." We're sure these traditional Japanese fishing rods will be passed down for years to come. If you like fishing, definitely check out one of these fishing rods. You're sure to have a great time. 【Official Website】Kazuaki Kawaguchi Sao Shosaku https://saosyosaku.com/