This video, titled " [6K to 4K] 無数の花火に囲まれる感動体験！ 令和元年 成田花火大会 Narita Fireworks Festival 2019 (shot on BMPCC6K)," was released by AQUA Geo Graphic. This video shows the Narita Fireworks Festival, which had to be cancelled due to a typhoon, but was able to be held with the help of a lot of people. The Narita Fireworks Festival, which is held in October every year, was temporarily cancelled in 2019 due to a typhoon, but after a month's postponement, the event was able to be held safely. The wide variety of beautiful fireworks that are set off to music is a beautiful sight that is sure to impress! This video shows you the beautiful fireworks at the Narita Fireworks Festival in 4K.

東京の夏を盛り上げる夏祭りと縁日・納涼祭で行われる盆踊り 東京の夏を盛り上げる夏祭りと縁日・納涼祭で行われる盆踊り この記事では、東京の夏祭りや納涼祭について「［4K］盆踊りTokyo summer Bon dance 東京の夏 東京観光 Bon odori 夏祭り風物詩 Tokyo tourism」という動画を元に、紹介していきます。 日本の夏の風物詩といえば、射的やたこ焼き、焼きそば等の数多くの屋台が立ち並ぶ夏祭りでしょう。 ここではそんな東京で主に縁日にて行われる夏祭り・納涼祭にスポットを当てて紹介します。 東京で行われる盆踊りのある夏祭り・納涼祭紹介！ 東京都内の代表的な夏祭りに浅草の「とうろう流し」があります。 東京の浅草にて縁日に行われる、亡くなった方の魂を弔うためのお祭りとなっています。 夏のお盆の時期の日が沈む頃、東京浅草の隅田川でとうろうの流れる様子や、盆踊りを楽しむことができます。 六本木ヒルズ盆踊り 東京の六本木ヒルズにて縁日に行われる夏祭りで、昔ながらの祭りとは違い、現代に寄った雰囲気の夏祭りというのが特徴となっています。 恒例とされている『六本人音頭』を始めとして、多様な盆踊りと迫力のある和太鼓を楽しめるお囃子を一度に楽しむことが出来ます。 日比谷公園丸の内音頭大盆踊り大会 毎年、夏の縁日にて行われる夏祭りで、盆踊りの定番曲としても知られている『東京音頭』の振り付けをアレンジした『丸の内音頭』が定番とされています。 大噴水を中心として、大きな踊りの輪はまさに圧巻の一言に尽きます。 東京都内でも最大規模の盆踊りとなっているので、ぜひ参加することをおすすめします。 花園神社盆踊り 東京の中心、新宿に位置する花園神社にて縁日に行われる夏祭りです。 浴衣姿の人達とスーツ姿の人達が入り乱れての盆踊りと、やぐらにて行われる『新宿太鼓会』は、独特な風情を感じさせる不思議なものとなっています。 築地本願寺納涼盆踊り大会 東京で行われている納涼祭の中でも、三大盆踊りの一つと数えられている納涼祭です。 築地にて行われるこの納涼祭は、盆踊りを楽しむもよし、築地ならではの屋台を楽しむもよしと、様々なニーズに答えてくれるイベントとなっています。 江戸川花火大会 東京の縁日にて行われる花火大会としては屈指の規模であり、打ち上げ数は国内最大の1万4000発で知られています。 屋形船に乗りながら花火を楽しむことが出来るのが魅力の一つであり、インスタ映えのする催しとなっています。 東京都の夏祭りと盆踊りの紹介まとめ 縁日にて東京で開催されている多くの夏祭り・納涼祭について、紹介をさせて頂きました。 皆さんも童心に帰って楽しみに来られてはいかがですか？

ASMR Shaved Ice Made With Fresh Fruit: Video Introduction This video, titled "Variety of Shaved Ice! Watermelon, Peach, Melon, Pineapple," was uploaded by "Chocolate Cacao." In this video, you'll learn how to make delicious shaved ice using fresh fruit. The video also features some relaxing ASMR! The sounds of cutting and crushing fruits, shaving flavored ice, etc. are a treat for the ears, making this video perfect for ASMR enthusiasts. Be sure to check out the video as you follow along with this article. How to Make Shaved Ice With Fresh Fruit and Chocolate Milk! Source :YouTube screenshot Here are the delicious fresh fruit shaved ice recipes shown in the video. ●Watermelon Shaved Ice ・Cut off the ends of a sliced watermelon so that it can be used as a bowl (to be frozen later). ・Hollow out the inside, remove the seeds, and freeze in the container for shaved ice. ・Serve in the frozen container. [Video] 0:43 - How to Make Shaved Ice With Fresh Watermelon In the video, cocoa is added to the finished watermelon shaved ice. It is an unexpected combination, but apparently it goes well together. ●Melon Shaved Ice ・Cut the melon in half, remove the seeds, and mash the melon while hollowing out the inside with a spoon. ・The melon rind is also used as a bowl, so freeze the melon and its contents separately. ・Place the shaved melon ice in the frozen bowl. [Video] 2:29 - How to Make Shaved Ice With Fresh Melon The cocoa doesn't seem to go well with the melon as much as with the watermelon, but the melon shaved ice itself seems to be very delicious. ●Peach Shaved Ice ・Cut the peaches in half, remove seeds, and peel. ・Cut the peaches into pieces so that they can be easily packed in the containers, mash them in a bowl, and freeze them in the containers. ・When frozen shave and serve in a glass bowl. [Video] 1:47 - How to Shaved Ice With Fresh Peaches Cocoa doesn't go well with peach shaved ice, as you might imagine. It seems to be best with no chocolate. ●Pineapple Shaved Ice ・The pineapples shaved ice also uses the rind as a bowl, so remove the leaves, avoid the core, and hollow out the inside. ・Cut off the core and freeze the contents and container separately. ・Place the frozen contents in the pineapple bowl. [Video] 3:09 - How to Make Shaved Ice With Fresh Pineapple In the video they recommend no cocoa for this one either. The coolness of the pineapple is delicious and great for cooling off in the summer heat. ●Chocolate Shaved Ice [Ingredients] Milk: 100 ml Granulated sugar: 12g Cocoa powder: 6g Couverture chocolate (70% cocoa content): 30g Fresh cream (45% fat): 30 ml ・Chop the couverture chocolate. ・Mix the milk with the granulated sugar and cocoa powder over low heat. ・Add the chopped couverture and mix well. ・Turn off the heat, stir in the cream, remove from heat and freeze. ・Shave the frozen chocolate with a shaved ice machine and serve. [Video] 4:01 - How to Make Shaved Ice With Frozen Chocolate Fluffy Shaved Ice With a DOSHISHA Shaved Ice Machine In Japan, this kind of shaved ice, with its fluffy yet crunchy texture is the most common type you'll find. Pearl Life's shaved ice machine used in the video can make frozen fruit shaved ice with the same texture. The latest model from Doushisha, which sells a number of electric shaved ice machines, can reproduce the fluffy, crunchy texture as well as a thicker texture, making it possible to enjoy shaved ice just like you'd get at a restaurant. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka: 3 Places to Enjoy Delicious Shaved Ice Made With Fresh Fruit! Not many stores offer shaved ice using fresh fruit. Here we'll introduce some of the most delicious and Instagrammable shaved ice stores that use fresh fruit. [Tokyo] ・Cochill Juice - (Kameido) This shaved ice is made from with whole Shizuoka BENI-HOPPE strawberries, produced by a fruit juice specialty store. This fresh fruit shaved ice is seasonal, so it's definitely worth trying during the summer months. [Kyoto] Yukinoshita (雪ノ下) (Kyoto Headquarters) (Nakagyo, Kyoto) This shaved ice made from fresh fruit is made by a store famous for its pancakes. Please note that reservations are required to enter the store. [Osaka] Kakigoran (かきごおらん) (Kita, Osaka City) Kakigoran offers shaved ice made from fresh fruits without using any water. You can enjoy luxurious shaved ice made with popular fruits. Summary of Shaved Ice With Fresh Fruit Did you enjoy the tasty-looking shaved ice and soothing ASMR? Shaved ice is a popular sweet treat in the hot summer months in Japan and is easy to make at home. Nowadays, you can even use a store-bought shaved ice machine to enjoy shaved ice like it's served at a restaurant. Frozen fruit shaved ice using fresh fruit from convenience stores in Japan is easy to make. By topping the fluffy, crunchy ice with syrup, ice cream, chocolate, and other toppings, you can enjoy your own original shaved ice treat. You can make it even more stylish by using the fruit rinds as a bowl. Try making some delicious and stylish shaved ice this summer and enjoy the sunny weather!

COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always hosting photo contests. In this article, we'd like to introduce some of the beautiful Japanese landscape photos submitted to our past contests. Along with the photos, we'd also like to share with you the charms of various photo spots in Japan. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation website that introduces the charms of Japan to people around the world that are interested in Japan. With our photo contests, your photos, be they taken with camera or smartphone, can be selected to win a prize! Stick around for more information about our photo contests! ■Table of Contents - Past Photo Contest Entries – Landscape Photography  Monet's Pond (Gifu)  Motonosumi Shrine (Yamaguchi)  Nokoshima (Fukuoka)  Kurihama Flower Park (Kanagawa)  Kurotaki Falls (Hyogo)  Kappa Bridge (Nagano)  Otsu Beach (Hokkaido)  Mt. Takara (Kyoto)  Mt. Fuji Sea of Clouds (Shizuoka)  Tarumi Railway (Gifu) - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Ongoing Photo Contest - Photo Contest Landscape Photography Summary Past Photo Contest Entries – Landscape Photography From the many submissions to our past photo contests, we have selected some of the best landscape photos of Japan. Here, we'll introduce the location where each photo was taken, along with sightseeing videos showing the charms of some of the areas! We hope you enjoy the photos! CoolJapanVideos Photographer: HIKARINOATORIE Location: Monet's Pond near the approach to Nemichi Shrine (Seki, Gifu) Monet's Pond A pond formed by spring water in the precincts of Nemichi Shrine, its beauty is reminiscent of Claude Monet's painting 'Water Lilies.' Because of this, the pond is commonly referred to as "Monet's Pond" and has become popular on Japanese social networking sites. Watching the video below, it almost feels as if the painting has become reality. Be sure to give it a watch. Monet's Pond Article Video article 3:07 A Degree of Clarity and Beauty only found in CG. Monet's Pond, Gifu Prefecture: A Colorful, Beautiful Sight Like a Mural in Front of Your Eyes YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: 石川満彦 Location: Motonosumi Shrine (Nagato, Yamaguchi) Motonosumi Shrine Motonosumi Shrine is a shrine said to being many benefits, such as prosperity in business, a large catch of fish, safety at sea, happy marriage, safe childbirth, good luck, and protection from bad luck. The beautiful scenery created by 123 red torii gates stands out against the green hillside and blue sea. We also recommend the following sightseeing video, which is packed with the charms of Yamaguchi. Yamaguchi Prefecture Sightseeing Article Video article 3:22 Enjoy the Beautiful Scenery of Yamaguchi Prefecture! These Photos Will Take Your Breath Away! Check Out the Amazing Sightseeing Spots, Gourmet Food, and Natural Scenery That Will Give You a Glimpse of the History That Has Made Japan What It Is Today! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: orinus Location: Nokoshima, Fukuoka Nokonoshima Island's Candy Store 'Omohideya' The quaint candy shop 'Omohideya' is located on Omohide-dori (思ひ出通り) in Nokonoshima Island Park. Both the storefront and interior of the store have a retro atmosphere, and stepping inside is like traveling back in time to Japan's Showa period. It's a spot where you can take photos with nostalgic sweets that Japanese children enjoyed many years ago. Japan's Showa-Retro Candy Shops The Showa Retro Atmosphere of Japan's Candy Shops! Everyone's Visited a Candy Store At One Time or Another, and They Were Once the Place To Meet Up With Friends Video article 6:01 The Showa Retro Atmosphere of Japan's Candy Shops! Everyone's Visited a Candy Store At One Time or Another, and They Were Once the Place To Meet Up With Friends YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: Mom Diamond Location: Kurihama Flower Park (Yokosuka, Kanagawa) Kurihama Flower Park Kurihama Flower Park is a place where visitors can enjoy flowers from season to season. Nemophila and poppies bloom in the spring, and one million cosmos bloom in the fall. This is a place where you can take up-close photos like the one above, as well as photos of carpets of flowers blooming in all directions. Kanagawa Prefecture Sightseeing Article Video article 7:01 There Are So Many Fascinating Places to Visit in Kanagawa Prefecture! World-Famous Sightseeing Spots in Kanagawa Are Brilliantly Introduced With Smooth Dancing! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: Nguyen Vu Location: Kurotaki Falls Kurotaki Falls A beautiful photo that makes you wonder "Is this really Japan?" Kurotaki Falls, described as the "Niagara of Miki," is a 4-meter tall, 30-meter-wide waterfall that flows down into the Mino River. It is characterized by its two-tiered male and female waterfalls, and there's a folk tale about a raccoon dog and a fox tricking each other as well. Photographing it from a low position with the sky makes for a powerful photo. Hyogo Prefecture Sightseeing Article Video article 7:28 Hyogo Prefecture Is a Fascinating Tourist Destination With Plenty of Delicious Food, Beautiful Scenery, Rich History, and Natural Landscapes! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: Abhi Sen Location: Kappa Bridge, Kamikochi (Matsumoto, Nagano) Kappa Bridge, Kamikochi Kamikochi is a mountain resort area located at an elevation of 1,500 meters above sea level. From Kappa Bridge, a suspension bridge with a presence that blends in with the magnificent scenery, you can see the clear Azusa River, the Hotaka mountain range, Mt. Dakesawa, and the volcanic fumes of Mt. Yake. It's also known for its appearance in Ryunosuke Akutagawa's novel 'Kappa.' The area is visited by many tourists every year between spring and summer (as shown in the photo) and in the fall when the colorful autumn leaves appear. Matsumoto, Nagano Sightseeing Article Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture Is an Amazing Tourist Destination Overflowing With Nature! Kamikochi and Matsumoto Castle Are Just Two of the Must-See Destinations! A Look at the Culture, History, and Cuisine of Matsumoto City! Video article 4:21 Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture Is an Amazing Tourist Destination Overflowing With Nature! Kamikochi and Matsumoto Castle Are Just Two of the Must-See Destinations! A Look at the Culture, History, and Cuisine of Matsumoto City! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: Lily0321 Location: Otsu Beach (Toyokoro, Hokkaido) Otsu Beach's 'Jewelry Ice' The chunks of ice from the Tokachi River that flow out into the Pacific Ocean are washed away, losing their rough edges and becoming clear ice. On the Otsu Coast, from mid-January to the end of February, you can see chunks of ice shining beautifully like jewels in the sunlight. If you take a photo at the right angle, you capture the sun shimmering in the background. Coupled with the ice, it creates a beautiful photo. Hokkaido Prefecture Sightseeing Article Video article 3:30 Hokkaido - Endlessly Sweeping Horizons and Magnificent Scenery! Set off on a Trip to Hokkaido's Scenic Locations to Enjoy Spectacular Views of Japan's Natural Landscape! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: st situation Location: Mt. Takara, Yakuno Highland (Fukuchiyama, Kyoto) Mt. Takara Mt. Takara is located on the Yakuno Highlands, which straddle the town of Yakuno in Fukuchiyama and Asago in Hyogo Prefecture. Mt. Takara is a popular location for photographers to capture spectacular views. The sea of clouds covering the mountains and the glow of the morning sun make the scenery look simply amazing. Kyoto Prefecture Sightseeing Article Video article 2:06 Traditional Shrines, Temples, and Beautiful Scenery in Kyoto! Sightseeing Destinations Where You Can Do Discover All That and More! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: ひであき Location: Mt. Fuji Sea of Clouds (Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture) Mt. Fuji Sea of Clouds Shimizu Yoshihara in Shizuoka, where you can take pictures of a sea of clouds, the morning glow, and Mt. Fuji, is said to be a good place to see a sea of clouds. Depending on the location, you can also take pictures of tea fields and hydrangeas as shown above. Shizuoka Prefecture Sightseeing Article Video article 3:23 There Are So Many Fascinating Places to Visit in Shizuoka Prefecture! One of Japan's Most Scenic Destinations Condensed Into Three Minutes! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: HIKARINOATORIE Location: Tarumi Railway, Tanigumiguchi Station (Ibi, Gifu) Tarumi Railway The Tarumi Railway runs between Ogaki, Gifu and Neo, Motosu. Among other things, Tanigumiguchi Station is known as a spot where you can take pictures of trains running along lines of cherry blossoms. The best time to take photos is in the morning when the weather is clear. Tanigumiguchi Station is also a good place to photograph parked trains. Gifu Prefecture Sightseeing Article Video article 6:06 Gifu City in Gifu Prefecture, the Very Center of Japan- Where Oda Nobunaga Aimed to Unify the Country. A City With a Wide Variety of Food, History, Culture and Beautiful Natural Scenery! YouTube Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that showcases the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS Anyone can enter COOL JAPAN VIDEOS' photo contests! Below are some of the features of our contests. ・On top of single-lens reflex cameras and digital cameras, photos taken with smartphones and other devices can also be submitted. ・Each person can submit as many photos as they like during the contest period. ・Editing of images, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Here you can find all of the past photo contest winners in one place. You can also see the prizes for each contest, as well as the locations where the photos were taken and the judges' critiques. Click here to see past photo contest winners Text only Photo Contest Results - COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Winning Photos - Discover the Charms of Japan! Current Photo Contest The following is information about the current photo contest. [Ongoing From September 2022] The 13th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Japan Travel Memories Submission period: September 1, 2022 12:00 AM - October 31, 2022 11:59 PM (Japan time) Prizes: ■Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card (1 Winner) ■Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card (5 Winners) Photo Contest -Japan Travel Memories - Photo Contest Landscape Photography Summary Did you enjoy these landscape photos from past photo contest entries? Some of these landscapes can only be seen in specific conditions. Japan is full of rich nature, historical locations, and seasonal events! Share your photos with the world and help showcase the beauty of Japan through COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! Related Articles Text only Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Heartwarming Photos That Will Put a Smile on Your Face! Text only Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Autumn in Japan Text only Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Showcasing the Different Views of Mt. Fuji YouTube Text only Hokkaido in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: From Popular Sightseeing Spots to Exotic Animals, Discover the Beauty of Japan's Northernmost Prefecture! .separation_line { border-width: 0 0 8px; border-style: solid; border-image: url('data:image/svg+xml,') 0 0 100% repeat; width: 216px; margin:auto; margin-bottom: 50px; }

Experience the Summer Tradition of "Kawadoko" With the Video From Kibune-jaya in Kyoto! This video, titled "[4K Video] [Kyoto] Kawadoko in Kibune｜Kibune-jaya (streambed cuisine) Washoku (Summer in Japan)" (【4K動画】【京都】貴船の川床（かわどこ）貴船茶屋（川床料理）和食（日本の夏）), was released by "movie fine." Kyoto City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. The "Kawadoko" of Kibune is one of the most popular summer events in Kyoto. "Kawadoko" means "streambed" in Japanese, but in this article it refers to platforms that are built above the streambeds during summer. Right next to Kifune Shrine, a famous power spot, a tatami room has been built on the Kibune River, where you can enjoy "Kawadoko cuisine." Kibune-jaya, shown in the video, offers popular Kyoto-style lunch cuisine and sukiyaki. From 0:44 in the video, you'll see a series of attractive Japanese dishes, including fish sashimi, tempura, and desserts, so don't miss it! There Are Many Other Kawadoko Sites in Kyoto, but Kibune-Jaya Stands Out Among the Rest... Photo：Kawadoko cuisine in Kibune, Kyoto There are four areas in Kyoto in the summer that host Kawadoko: Kamogawa River (鴨川), Takao (高雄), Takagamine (鷹峯), and Kibune (木船). Kawadoko are a place to sit near the water and cool off, and are made with Japanese style tatami flooring called "Zashiki." They are also called "Noryo Yuka" in Japanese as well. You can choose your own style of cuisine from a variety of restaurants, including French, Chinese, and cafes. Kibune, together with the nearby Mt. Kurama (鞍馬山) is known as the "inner sanctum of Kyoto." Forty minutes north of the city, the Kawadoko is built above a mountain stream, making it exceptionally cool and refreshing. During the festival period, many tourists from Japan and abroad flock to the Kawadoko sites. If you want to fully enjoy the Kawadoko, it's best to avoid the crowds if possible. Kibune-jaya, introduced in this article, is one where you can do just that. The biggest attraction of the Kawadoko at Kibune-jaya is that they don't accept large groups or tour groups. The price is reasonable as well, so it won't put a strain on your wallet either. In addition, either side of the platoform faces the river, so you can soak your feet in it. By sampling Kibune-jaya's exquisite kaiseki cuisine while feeling the clear streams of Kyoto, shown at 0:30 in the video, both your mind and body will be at peace. Access to Kifune Shrine is also quite simple. It's only a 2-minute walk from Kibune-jaya. This is another great thing about Kibune-jaya. A pick-up service is available from the nearby Kibuneguchi Station as well, so it's convenient to let them know when you make a reservation. Fireflies in Late June Photo：Fireflies The Kawadoko at Kibune-jaya is open from May to September, but we highly recommend visiting from late June to mid-July. It's also the time when the fragrant Ninose lilies bloom, and fireflies can be seen flying around the Kibune River at night. If you're lucky, they may even appear on the Kawadoko at Kibune-jaya. Kibune is also home to a number of Ryokan (Japanese-style inns), notably "Beniya." It's a good idea to stay overnight after cooling off on the Kawadoko and go sightseeing in a different area the following day. It's also the time of year when Kurama Temple is surrounded by fresh greenery and the hydrangeas are in full bloom at Sanzen-in Temple. You're guaranteed to have a great trip, as Kyoto City is home to numerous places of interest, such as Shimogamo Shrine, Heian Shrine, Nanzen-ji Temple, Ginkaku-ji Temple (the Silver Pavilion), and Kyoto City Zoo. Kibune-jaya Summary Photo：View of the Kifune River Kibune-jaya was completely destroyed by a typhoon in 2019 and is undergoing reconstruction as of September 2020. It'll be interesting to see how the new appearance differs from that of the old shown in the video at 6:06. Check out the blog on the official website of the Kibune-jaya for the latest information! 【Yelp】Kibune-jaya https://www.yelp.com/biz/%E8%B2%B4%E8%88%B9%E8%8C%B6%E5%B1%8B-%E4%BA%AC%E9%83%BD%E5%B8%82?osq=%E8%B2%B4%E8%88%B9%E8%8C%B6%E5%B1%8B

Introducing "Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa" a festival in Fukuoka Prefecture! In this article, we will introduce the video "50 Years of Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa（黒崎祇園山笠 50年の歩み）" released by "Yahata Nishi Ward Office Official Video Channel". There are many festivals derived from the Kyoto Gion Festival in Japan, including the Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa in Fukuoka Prefecture, introduced in this video. The historic Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa is counted along with Tobata Gion Oyamakasa and Ogura Gion Taiko in the “Kitakyushu Three Great Gion Festivals” and is designated as a Fukuoka Prefecture Intangible Folk Cultural Property and celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2018. The Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa Festical: Origin and highlights Source :YouTube screenshot The Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa festival in Fukuoka, introduced in the video, is a historic festival in Kitakyushu city, which has been held for over 400 years. In 1605, during the Christian era, Nagamasa Kuroda ordered the Kurosaki Castle owner, Yukifusa Inoue, to build Okadagu Kasuga Shrine. This festival dedicated to the Okadagu Kasuga Shrine is the origin of Kurosaki Gion and has been inherited as the Gion Festival of "Ichinomiya Shrine", "Okadagu" and "Kasuga Shrine". You can see the origin of the Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa festival from 0:49 in the video. Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa begins at the beginning of July with a ceremony of the Oshioi-tori that purifies floats with seawater for the sake of safety in Gion. This is introduced at 1:57 in the video. Source :YouTube screenshot Next, is the SasaYamakasa that can be seen from 2:13 in the video. This practice is still inherited as an important traditional event. Decorative Yamakasa, which can be seen from 2:28 in the video, are puppets that are placed on floats by puppeteers to decorate them according to the theme of each year. The music of Kurosaki Gion consists of large drums, small drums, bells and conchs, and the rhythm incorporates the battle drums of the battle of Sekigahara. Gion Taiko is brave and encourages the hearts of people and inspires them. The main event of the festival is the city cruise, where you can see the “Mawashi-Neri” that spins the floats. This can be seen at 1:50 and 6:22 in the video. In addition, there are plenty of other spectacular events such as the Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa competition where Yamakasa compete for victory, as well as the Taiko Competition. Both are competitions you won't want to miss! The Different Floats of the “Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa” Festival Source :YouTube screenshot The members of the Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa Preservation Society belong to Ichinomiya Shrine's Kumanishi Yamakasa and Yamadera Yamakasa, the Kumade area's Okadagu Shrine's Kumade first Yamakasa, the Kumade second Yamakasa, the third Kumade Yamakasa, and the Fujita area's Kasuga Shrine. Fujita HigashiYamakasa, Fujiya City Yamakasa , Higashimachi Yamakasa. These SasaYamakasa can be seen from 1:29 in the video. In 2012, Tamachi Funamachi Yamakasa joined the service for the first time in 64 years. Also, in 2013, SasaYamakasa participated in commemorating the 50th anniversary of Kitakyushu's municipal organization. The floats are illuminated with lights, and are more colorful and brilliant when the sun goes down, as you can see from 7:58 in the video. Is the Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa Festival Expanding Overseas? Source :YouTube screenshot Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa has also made appearances in festivals in other regions has expanded overseas. In addition to the Osaka Midosuji Parade, it has also bee na part of the Hawaii Aloha Week Festival, Hong Kong New Year Parade, and the 2016 Korea Communications Festival, all of which are introduced starting at 5:46 in the video. Summary of the "Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa" Introduction Video Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa is also known as the "Yamakasa fight" or "fight festival." It is a powerful festival that dynamically moves floats. You can also see "Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa Memory", which shows the recent history of Kurosaki Gion, from 3:16. Of course, during Kurosaki Gion, there are also food stalls along the roadside, and it is full of many tourists. There are traffic restrictions on the day, so it is recommended that you collect enough information on the official website before going out. ◆Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa ◆ 【Schedule】 4 days in the 3rd to 4th week of July every year 【Venue Information】Kurosaki Ekimae Fureai Street, Kurosaki Hibishin Hall, Suginamiki Park in Magari. 【Access】 Immediately from JR Kurosaki Station 【Parking】 Use a nearby paid parking lot 【Official Website】Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa-Kitakyushu city https://www.city.kitakyushu.lg.jp/yahatanishi/file_0134.html

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

日本の祭り「富山県八尾町【おわら風の盆】」の動画について 「富山市広報課」が公開した「【おわら風の盆】富山市八尾町」は、富山県八尾町で開催されている日本の夏祭り「おわら風の盆」を紹介している動画です。 おわら風の盆は、300年もの歴史のある日本伝統の祭り。 その優雅で美しい舞にきっと魅了されると思いますよ。 こちらの記事では、富山県八尾町で開催されるおわら風の盆の魅力を動画と共に紹介します。 日本の祭り「富山県八尾町【おわら風の盆】」とは？ 毎年夏に開催されるおわら風の盆は、昔ながらの家並みが続く越中八尾で行われる民謡行事。 日本らしい雅な踊りや唄、楽器演奏は多くの人々を魅了し、愛されています。 おわら風の盆の起源は江戸時代の元録だと記録に残っています。 町外に流出した大事な文書を取り戻した喜びに、三日三晩踊っていたことが由来と言われています。 また、おわら風の盆を題材にした映画や小説も生まれています。 おわら風の盆のすこし悲しい歌詞はいろいろな分野に影響を与えています。 おわら風の盆の日程（スケジュール）は、8月20日から30日までが前夜祭。 その後に9月1・2・3日で本祭です。 魅力あふれる日本の伝統的なイベントを心置きなく楽しみましょう！ 日本の祭り「富山県八尾町【おわら風の盆】」の魅力 富山県八尾町で開催されるおわら風の盆は、その幻想的で特徴のある踊り方が見物客を魅了しています。 艶やかで優雅な女踊り、迫力ある男踊り、それぞれの踊り手が三味線、胡弓などの日本らしい音楽に合わせて踊ります。 大勢の踊り手が練り歩くおわら風の盆。 夏のひとときを美しい日本の祭りを見て楽しむのはいかがでしょうか？ 富山県八尾町の周辺情報など 富山県の八尾町で行われるおわら風の盆。 おわら風の盆を目当てに旅行する人に、アクセスや宿泊地の情報を紹介します。 交通アクセスは、「富山駅」から「越中八尾駅」まで電車か、「富山駅」から「八尾」間の定期バスを利用するのがおすすめ。 自動車で来訪する場合は、旧八尾町中心部には観光客用の駐車スペースがほとんどないため、駐車場の場所を確認しておく必要があります。 また、お祭りの期間は交通規制があるので注意。 宿泊場所は八尾地域の中心部にはビジネスホテルや旅館が数軒しかなく、注意が必要。 おわら風の盆を目当ての旅行客は富山市周辺のホテルや旅館に宿泊している人が多いようです。 日本の祭り「富山県八尾町【おわら風の盆】」の記事のまとめ 「富山市広報課」が公開した「【おわら風の盆】富山市八尾町」は、日本の歴史あるお祭りを紹介している動画です。 おわら風の盆の魅力を知ることができる興味深い映像ですよ！ おわら風の盆は日本らしさを体験できる素晴らしい祭り。 稽古を積んだ踊り手の幻想的なステージを思う存分楽しみましょう！

青森の八戸三社大祭をご紹介！ 日本の夏でにぎやかなお祭りを体験して、夏の思い出をつくりたいという方はいませんか？ そのような方々に今回は、国の重要無形民俗文化財にも選ばれている青森の八戸三社大祭を「八戸市観光化Hachinohe City Tourism Section」 が制作する「【公式ＰＶ】 "The Japanese Traditional Arts" 八戸三社大祭【Long ver.】」という動画をもとに説明していきます！ 日本の有名な山車行事である八戸三社大祭は毎年大賑わい！ 日本の有名な山車まつりである八戸三社大祭は、にぎやかなお祭りを体験したい人にはおすすめのお祭りです。 様々な郷土芸能や山車行事の迫力は国内のお祭りの中でも随一で、大きな盛り上がりを見せています。 青森の八戸三社大祭は、ユネスコ無形文化遺産としても指定されている伝統と歴史があるお祭りです。 神社行列や、さまざまな郷土芸能、豪華絢爛な山車といった日本の文化が凝縮されていて盛大なお祭りの中でも和の心を感じることができるでしょう。 八戸三社大祭は、五穀豊穣への祈りが込められており、神話や歌舞伎を題材にした山車でその祈りを表現しています。 日程は、7月31日の前夜祭から8月4日の後夜祭までです。 ぜひ参加してみてはいかがでしょうか？ 日本の八戸三社大祭「山車行事」の魅力 青森の八戸三社大祭の山車は、その大きさと迫力で目にした人々を圧倒します。 華やかな装飾で細かい部分までこだわりぬいた山車は、地元の人の情熱が込められています。 豊かな装飾と職人の情熱が込められた豪華絢爛の山車が、お祭りの参加している人々の気持ちを高め、お祭りを盛り上げるのです。 八戸三社大祭ご覧になるときは、ぜひ山車に注目するとよいでしょう。 青森の八戸三社大祭でさまざまな郷土芸能を楽しもう！ 青森の八戸三社大祭はさまざまな郷土芸能を楽しむことができます。 航海安全の信仰として伝承されてきた「虎舞」、黒い装束の獅子舞の「法霊神楽」、笹の葉を持って踊る「笹の葉踊り」、馬の模型をつけた「駒踊」など、さまざまな郷土芸能が参加者を楽しませてくれます。 その土地ならではの郷土芸能で、エキゾチックな雰囲気も味わえることも八戸三社大祭の大きな魅力なのです。 青森の山車まつりである八戸三社大祭のまとめ おがみ神社、長者山新羅神社、神明宮の三社合同のお祭りである八戸三社大祭。 勇壮さの中で郷土芸能が融合した、このお祭りはよい夏の思い出になることでしょう。 ぜひ青森県に訪れて参加してみてください！

埼玉県秩父の伝統的な夏祭り「長瀞船玉まつり」紹介動画について こちらの動画は「公式チャンネルさいたまつり」が公開した「長瀞船玉まつり 2018 【4K】さいたまつり」です。 埼玉の「長瀞（ながとろ）船玉まつり」をご存知でしょうか？ 観光名所・埼玉県秩父郡で行われている夏祭りで、こちらの動画ではその様子を美しい4Kの高画質映像でご覧になることができます。 長瀞船玉まつりとは？ 夏の風物詩とも言われる日本の花火は年々進化しており、長瀞船玉まつりでも豪華な花火大会が催されます。 街の人総出で行われる祭りの準備様子は、活気に溢れています。 長瀞船玉まつりの歴史 「長瀞船玉まつり」の歴史は長く、昔荒川の周遊船の船頭が、船下りの際に水上の安全を祈願し、水神様を祀ったことが起源とされています。 この周遊船は現在も船頭さんたちによって運営されています。 長瀞船玉まつりの目玉！荒川に映る日本伝統の灯火 「長瀞船玉まつり」はまず、「万灯船」の運航から始まります。 18時になると水上安全修ばつ祭と呼ばれる神事が行われます。 そしてその後18時すぎには、およそ1,000基もの灯籠が流され、美しい光の川を生み出します。 19時すぎには花火大会がスタート！ ここで観衆の高揚はピークに達します。 万灯船、灯籠流し、そして仕掛け花火やスターマインの光が、日本埼玉の美しい景勝地を美しく色付けます。 長瀞船玉まつりの紹介まとめ 「長瀞船玉まつり 2018 【4K】さいたまつり」は、日本の文化を肌で感じられる「長瀞船玉まつり」を美しい映像で紹介してくれています。 祭りの準備の熱気や、夜に映し出される美しい光景を感じられる動画になっているので、長瀞の景勝地観光に興味のある人は是非ご覧ください。 日本の伝統ある文化に触れたい方は、ぜひこの機会に長瀞へ行ってみましょう！

Introducing the Yoshida Fire Festival! This video, “日本三奇祭 吉田の火祭り（鎮火祭・すすき祭り） The Yoshida Fire Festival,” was created by “FUJISAN DRONE BASE - 富士山ドローンベース.” The video introduces one of Japan’s historic summer festivals. The Yoshida Fire Festival is jointly organized by Kitaguchi-hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine (北口本宮冨士浅間神社) and Suwa Shrine (諏訪神社), and is held at the foot of Mt. Fuji. Every year, the 26th of August is the Fire Prevention Festival (鎮火祭) , with the 27th being the Susuki Festival (すすき祭り). The festival is a bustling affair with a large number of visitors. What Kind of Festival Is the Yoshida Fire Festival? Source :YouTube screenshot The Yoshida Fire Festival is jointly organized by Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine and Suwa Shrine, and is held in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi (山梨県富士吉田市, yamanashi-ken fujiyoshida-shi), at the foot of Mount Fuji. The festival is known as one of Japan’s Three Strangest Festivals, as well as one of the top ten fire festivals in Japan. Every year, the festival attracts up to 200,000 visitors. The origins of the festival are unclear, but one theory is that the festival originates from the legend of the deity of fire, Konohanasakuya-hime (コノハナサクヤヒメ). The festival is a long-held tradition, and is one of the representative Intangible Folk Cultural Properties of Japan. The Yoshida Fire Festival Is a Must-See Festival in Japan! Source :YouTube screenshot Every year, on the 26th of August, Suwa Shrine carries out a procession with two mikoshi shrines. More than 100 sponsors and members of Mt. Fuji's religious associations participate in this ritual. The two mikoshi shrines are paraded through the worshippers who hold branches from the sacred Sakaki Evergreen. Finally, the procession ends at Asama Shrine. The festival can be seen from 0:43 in the video. Of the two mikoshi shrines, one created in the likeness of Mt. Fuji can be seen from 1:00 in the video. Following that, from 1:54 in the video, the lit-up torches can be seen. With all the torches lit, the ordinary streets become a fantastical, otherworldly sea of flames. The Yoshida Fire Festival is accessible by bus or train, and temporary parking lots are also prepared during the festival, making it possible to visit by car. Traffic can get quite congested on festival days, so be sure to sure to account for drive time when visiting the festival by car. Summary of the Yoshida Fire Festival Source :YouTube screenshot Mt. Fuji is dearly beloved as the number-one mountain in Japan. This love can also be seen through the large number of visitors to the festival held at the foot of the mountain. If you still haven't yet, be sure to check out the video and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this traditional, soul-stirring, and energetic festival of Japan! 【Tripadvisor】The Yoshida Fire Festival https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g681223-d10019706-Reviews-Yoshida_Himatsuri-Fujiyoshida

A Closer Look at Kyoto's Kifune Shrine This video, titled "Kifune Shrine in Early Summer / Kifune Jinja / KyotoiitokoVideo" (初夏の貴船神社 / Kifune Jinja / 京都いいとこ動画) was created by "KyotoiitokoVideo." It's an introductory video featuring Kifune Shrine, located in Kyoto city, Kyoto prefecture (京都府京都市). Many people visit Kifune Shrine in search of luck in marriage and it is also known as a famous power spot. In this article we'll introduce, alongside the video, one of the top sightseeing spots in Kyoto: Kifune Shrine. The History and Origin of Kifune Shrine Photo：The main shrine of Kifune Shrine, Kyoto Kifune shrine in Kyoto, a shrine dedicated to the god Takaokami (高霞神), is the head shrine of all of the Kifune shrines in Japan, of which there are approximately 450 in total. It is listed in the Engi Shiki and is considered one of the top 22 most important Shinto shrines in Japan. Kifune shrine is an ancient shrine featured in the oldest records of Japan, such as the Kojiki (古事記, "Records of Ancient Matters") and the Nihon-shoki (日本書紀, "The Chronicles of Japan"). Things to Do at Kifune Shrine Photo：Water divination at Kifune Shrine Beyond the stone staircase that climbs from Kibune River lies the main building of Kifune shrine as well as other smaller buildings where you can purchase goshuin seal stamps or good luck charms called "o-mamori." Here you can try drawing one of the popular water divination slips known as "mizuuranai-mikuji" (水占みくじ). Two horse statues can be found on the grounds of Kifune shrine and it is thought that this was the birth place of the Ema plaques (絵馬). 700 meters upstream of Omoi River (思ひ川) you'll find the rear shrine, and if you make it here you'll have completed "sanshameguri" (三社巡り), which means that you've visited all three areas of the shrine. It is said that a sacred dragon's cave lies within the rear shrine. You can see the rear shrine from 1:03 in the video. Several events are held at Kifune shrine each year, such as the Kifune festival (貴船まつり), Nagoshi no Oharae (夏越の大祓式), Kifune water festival (貴船の水まつり) and the Tanabata festival "Sasa no Sekku" (笹の節供) which is famous for its beautiful bamboo grass decorations. On top of Kifune Shrine's beautiful summer scenery, you can also enjoy the amazing cherry blossom viewing spots in spring and stunning natural scenery in fall in the surrounding area. The area is often lit up in the evening, attracting lots of visitors! A special prayer is held on the first "day of the ox" of every month. Sightseeing and Restaurants in the Surrounding Area Photo：Kawadoko in Kibune, Kyoto Make sure to stop by a Kawadoko (川床) on your trip to Kibune! Kawadoko means "streambed" in Japanese, but it refers to the raised platforms that are constructed over the streambeds in summer to keep visitors cool. Stopping at Kawadoko for lunch is guaranteed to make for an unforgettable experience! We highly recommend the following restaurants which are located in the surrounding area: Kuramadera (鞍馬寺), Hyoue café(兵衛カフェ), Ryouri Ryokan Kibune's Ugenta (右源太) and Sagenta (左源太), Kifune Kurabu (貴船倶楽部) and Toriyachaya (鳥屋茶屋). Kifune Shrine Introductory Video Summary Photo：Kifune Shrine, Kyoto The Kibune area, which boasts a cooler temperature than Kyoto basin (京都盆地), is the perfect place to beat the summer heat! Let the running water of the Kifune river, the source of both the Yodo River (淀川) and Kamo River (鴨川), reinvigorate your body on a hot summer's day! Make sure to take lots of photos of the stunning natural scenery at Kifune Shrine so you can share them on SNS later! ◆Kifune Shrine Facility Information◆ 【Address】180 Kuramakibunecho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1112 (〒601-1112 京都府京都市左京区鞍馬貴船町180) 【Access】From Eizan Electric Railway Kibuneguchi Station, take the Kyoto Bus and get off at Kibune Station. From there it's 5 minutes on foot. 【Admission Fee】Entry is free of charge, Mizuuranai-mikuji: 200 yen for 1 fortune, sacred shrine water: 500 yen for 1 container 【Hours】6:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 【Closures】Open year-round 【Parking】Available (25 spaces, 500 yen for 2 hours) 【Phone】075-741-2016 【Tripadvisor】Kifune Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d1386169-Reviews-Kifune_Shrine-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

The Akagawa Fireworks Festival This video, "4K The Most Touching Thing in Japan! 28th Akagane Fireworks Festival 2018 "Pride" -Emotional Fireworks- Akagawa Fireworks Festival (shot on Samsung NX1)"（[4K] 感動日本一 ! 第28回 赤川花火大会 2018「誇り」～こころゆさぶる感動花火～ Akagawa Fireworks Festival (shot on Samsung NX1)）, is a beautiful 4K video of the 2018 Akagawa Fireworks Festival "Pride," which was ranked in the top 10 of the best 100 fireworks in Japan. There were approximately 12 thousand fireworks displayed. Around 350 thousand people came to see the 2018 Akagawa Fireworks Festival, including visitors from abroad. For 27 minutes, you can watch the ending of the Akagawa Fireworks Festival, which is the climax of the program. Enjoy the summer night sky and "the most touching fireworks in Japan" with this video. Introduction to the Akagawa Fireworks Festival Photo：Akagawa Fireworks Festival The Akagawa Fireworks Festival is one big program. We'll introduce the process of the festival below, alongside the video. There are 4 parts. -Opening (Video 0:15) Kitanihon Hanabi Kougyou “Future” (BGM: Tomoni by WANIMA) -Local fireworks (Video: 3:43) Inakako Horiuchi Enkaten “Masquerade” (BGM: Dakishimetai by Mr. Children) -Light of Hope (Video: 12:06) Marugoh “Light of Eternity” (BGM: Hero by Amuro Namie) -Ending (Video 17:55) Beniya Aoki Enkaten “Moment of Miracle” (BGM: A New Day by Beverly) In each part of the large program fireworks are set off in a way that matches the music. The climax of the Akagawa Fireworks Festival is when the 700m long fireworks are set. There's was also the dramatic firework display called “Ghost Matthew and the Magical Flower” in 2018. Top class pyrotechnics from all over Japan compete to show off their skills at the national fireworks competition. There are design fireworks and traditional fireworks and it's breathtaking to see them in the night sky. Information About the Area Photo：Akagawa Akagawa Fireworks Festival is a historical and popular festival. It is a traditional event in Tsuruoka city, Yamagata prefecture and it will be held for the 30th time in 2020. On the day of the festival, there are many street stalls and the street is covered with people wearing yukata. This video is filmed from 2 locations. One is from the venue and the other is from the backside of the venue, in the field. The front side of the venue is downwind, so we recommend viewing the display from the field on the back side. You can search and look for your own viewing spots as well. Summary Photo：Akagawa Fireworks Festival It is the most popular fireworks festival in Japan! There are tours from major travel companies as well, so if you want to visit from afar, you should book a hotel and plan your schedule in advance. We hope this video has you interested in the amazing Akagawa Fireworks Festival! The details of the 2018 Akagawa Fireworks Festival is down below. Some information changes every year, so check the official homepage before visiting. ◆Information about the 2018 Akagawa Fireworks Festival◆ 【Address】30 minute walk from Uetsu Main Line Turuoka station It will be crowded on the day of the festival. There are traffic restrictions and parking fills up quickly, so we highly recommend using public transportation. There are free shuttle buses from Tsuruoka station to the official parking area. However, the official parking area is for people with box seating only. 【Date】August 18th, 2018/ Fireworks start from 7:15 pm 【Venue】Riverbed of Akagawa, Tsuruoka city, Yamagata prefecture 【Entrance fee】 Free, paid seats available. (Reservation needed for free box seat. For paid seats: F to SA class seat costs 3,000 to 24,000 Yen (~$30-$240 USD) 【Sponsor】Executive Committee of the Akagawa Fireworks Festival 【Warning】Please check out the official homepage for details about the upcoming festival. 【Tripadvisor】Akagawa Fireworks Festival https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023682-d10019651-Reviews-Akagawa_Fireworks-Tsuruoka_Yamagata_Prefecture_Tohoku.html

This video, titled "Gion Matsuri: Yasaka Shrine Events (Omukae chochin/Hanagasa junko/Kankousai)," was released by "Discover Kyoto." The Gion Festival in Kyoto has a strong image of a breathtaking parade of floats, but don't miss the events introduced in the video, such as the welcoming lanterns, the Hanagasa Festival, and more. The Gion Festival is a long-running festival that begins on July 1 and continues all the way 'til July 31st, when the Nagoshi-no-Harai ceremony is held. Rituals and events are held almost every day on the grounds of Yasaka Shrine, where the Gion Festival is held, and in the Kawaramachi and Karasuma areas, which are crowded with tourists. Summer in Kyoto is hot, so be sure to take precautions against the heat while touring the city in July!

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。

The Gion Festival's "Omukae Chochin"? This video, titled "Gion Matsuri Omukae Chochin Performance," was uploaded by Kyoto Fan. It introduces "Omukae Chochin," one of the events that takes place during Kyoto's Gion Matsuri (Gion Festival). Gion Matsuri is held each year at Yasaka Shrine (八坂神社, yasakajinja) in Kyoto and is one of the largest festivals in Japan. Omukae Chochin, which takes place on July 10th, is a lantern parade held to welcome the Gion Matsuri mikoshi (portable shrines). We hope you enjoy watching this exciting event which attracts a large number of tourists each year! Check Out Omukae Chochin! Source :YouTube screenshot Gion Matsuri is a festival that takes place at Yasaka Shrine (sometimes referred to as "Gionsha" (祇園社)) in Kyoto. Gion Matsuri is held throughout the month of July, however, Omukae Chochin, the event introduced in the video, is always held on July 10th. After Omukae Chochin and Mikoshi Togyo (神輿渡御) are held on July 10th, a large number of festival floats called "Yamaboko" (山鉾) are built for future parades. During the festival month, the Yamaboko float areas are filled with musicians dressed in kimono and yukata playing flutes and taiko drums to a performance called "Gionbayashi" (祇園囃子). This can be seen from 0:27 in the video. Popular Events Held After Omukae Chochin Photo：Gion Matsuri, Kyoto Prefecture During "Yoiyama" (宵山), held on July 15th and 16th, the streets are closed off to vehicles and instead filled with a large number of food stands called "yatai" (屋台). This is a great spot to take photos of the delicious local food! Gion Matsuri's main event, Yamaboko Junko (山鉾巡行, Yamaboko Parade), takes place on July 17th and 24th. There are many other events you can enjoy during Gion Matsuri, such as "Yoiyama" which features lively musical performances, and "Hanagasa Junko," which is performed by children. If you'd like to watch the spectacular Yamaboko Junko parade up close, we highly recommend booking seats in advance. Enjoy Summer Sightseeing In Kyoto! Photo：Gozan Okuribi, Kyoto Prefecture Even after Gion Matsuri has come to an end, there are still many more events to be enjoyed in Kyoto! Gozan no Okuribi (五山の送り火), a festival held during the Bon Festival (お盆, obon), attracts many tourists each year. If you're traveling to Kyoto during summer, we highly recommend dining along the riverside, a tradition called "Kamo River Noryo-Yuka" (鴨川納涼床, Kamogawa Nouryoyuka). There are also many other cultural properties you can enjoy in Kyoto city. Unfortunately there are no fireworks displays held in the city, but if you would like to see the summer fireworks, the nearest spots are the Uji River (宇治川, ujikawa) and Kameoka (亀岡). Summary of Kyoto's Gion Matsuri Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see from the video, Gion Matsuri is an elegant yet powerful festival which is widely popular year after year. The festival is held throughout the entire month of July (from July 1st all the way through July 31st). If you'd like to see one of the largest festivals in Japan, we highly recommend visiting Kyoto during summer! 【Official Website】Gion Matsuri Overview – Yasaka Shrine http://www.yasaka-jinja.or.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Gion Matsuri https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d8820238-Reviews-Gion_Matsuri-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Winners! Bringing the charms of Japan to the world. Photos taken with smartphones and processed photos are also eligible for entry! COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always holding photo contests with different themes, such as Japanese culture, nature, Japan's four seasons, and more. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a "social video curation site" that introduces the charms of Japan to all people around the world who are interested in Japan. We have been holding photo contests since 2020, and this year, 2022, will mark our 12th contest. This article will introduce some of the wonderful works that have won awards in the past. Also, with the "COOL JAPAN VIDEOS" photo contests, even photos taken via smartphone can be winners! Stay tuned for contest details, and feel free to enter our contests after learning what they're all about! ■Table of Contents - Introduction of Past Photo Contest Winners  The 12th Photo Contest  The 11th Photo Contest  The 10th Photo Contest  The 9th Photo Contest  The 8th Photo Contest  The 7th Photo Contest  The 6th Photo Contest  The 5th Photo Contest  The 4th Photo Contest  The 3rd Photo Contest  The 2nd Photo Contest  The 1st Photo Contest - What is COOL JAPAN VIDEOS? - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Current Photo Contest - About Past Entries - Photo Contest Summary Introduction of Past Photo Contest Winners We're pleased to introduce the grand prize winners of our past photo contests. We have chosen works, to the best of our ability, that convey the charms of Japan via photography and make those who see them want to visit Japan. Every last one of these photos is fantastic! We'll also introduce the places where the photos were taken. [Jul 2022 - Aug 2022] The 12th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Summer in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: あ や か Location: Hanshin Koshien Stadium (Osaka) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: A Moment of Victory for Sendai Ikuei Gakuen at Summer Koshien 2022 Sendai Ikuei Gakuen won the 104th National High School Baseball Championship. A dynamic shot capturing players on the mound and dust flying into the air. The combination of the winners raising their hands to the sky while a member of the losing team watches creates a very dramatic scene, and we have selected it as this contest's Grand Prize winner. ■Honorable Mentions ・Hanshin Koshien Stadium (Osaka) ・Rural Scenery ・Fukagawa Hachiman Festival (Tokyo) ・Nokonoshima Island (Fukuoka) ・A Sunflower Field ・Utsukushigahara Farm (Nagano) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [May 2022 - June 2022] The 11th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japan's Outdoors Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: HIROKI Location: Hoshi ni Te no Todoku Oka Campsite (Hokkaido) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: Hoshi ni Te no Todoku Oka Campsite in Nakafurano, Hokkaido A contrast between the beautiful starry sky and warm camp lights. We have selected this photo as the Grand Prize winner for its clear skies and the captivating nature of Furano. ■Honorable Mentions ・Paddleboarding at sunset on Matsue Beach (Akashi, Hyogo) ・Canoeing and autumn leaves at Lake Chuzenji (Nikko, Tochigi) ・The swing of Heidi, Girl of the Alps, at Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort (Kitaazumi, Nagano) ・Fuji on New Year's Day from a campground (Fuji, Shizuoka) ・Scuba diving at the Aragusuku Islands (Yaeyama, Okinawa) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [March 2022 - April 2022] The 10th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Nature in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: st situation Location: A tea plantation (Kamikawa, Hyogo) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments:The scenery of a tea plantation reminds us of the mountains that symbolize Japan. You can practically smell the crisp green air. We have selected this photo as the Grand Prize for its depiction of nature, which has been an integral part of life for the Japanese as an agrarian people since ancient times. ■Honorable Mentions ・Diamond Fuji and swans at Lake Yamanaka (Yamanakako, Yamanashi) ・A sea of clouds at the Yakuno Highlands (Fukuchiyama, Kyoto) ・Cherry blossoms at Koiwai Farm (Iwate District, Iwate) ・A midwinter glow (Kikuchi, Kumamoto) ・An evening view of Komezuka in autumn (Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [January 2022 - February 2022] The 9th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japanese Events Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: 甚四郎 Location: The Shiozawa Seppu Snow Festival (Minamiuonuma, Niigata) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments:The Shiozawa Seppu Snow Festival is held every year on the third Saturday in February in Shiozawa, Minamiuonuma, Niigata. This fantastic festival in the snow is held in honor of Bokushi Suzuki, the author of "Hokuetsu Seppu" and a literary figure of the Edo period, and to pass on the culture of the snow country. We are pleased to present the grand prize to this photograph of a beautiful, traditional festival featuring magical flames burning in the snow. ■Honorable Mentions ・The Kawarayu Onsen Yukake Festival (Naganohara, Gunma) ・Ose Festival, Uchiura Fishing Port Festival (Numazu, Shizuoka) ・Menburyu (Kashima, Saga) ・Bean-throwing on Setsubun ・A traditional bridal procession Click here to see the honorable mention photos [November 2021 - December 2021] The 8th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Winter in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: yuzu rin Location: The Weeping Cherry of Gion in Maruyama Park during winter (Kyoto city, Kyoto) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments:The Weeping Cherry of Gion in Maruyama Park, one of the most famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto Prefecture, and not far from Shijo-Kawaramachi and Gion, Kyoto's downtown area. The cherry blossoms bloom in spring and are popular with many tourists, but this photo shows the beauty of the cherry trees in winter, and the weeping cherry bathing in the moonlight gives the viewer a sense of Japanese wabi-sabi. We would like to award the Grand Prize to this photo, which exudes an overwhelming presence. ■Honorable Mentions ・A group of students going to school in the snow (Tokyo) ・Foxes at Zao Fox Village (Shiroishi, Miyagi) ・A shinkansen traveling through the snow (Maibara, Shiga) ・Eel fishing at night (Tokushima City, Tokushima) ・Snowy scenery at Lake Nakamaki (Nagano City, Nagano) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [September 2021 - October 2021] The 7th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Autumn in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: st situation Location: Iwagami Shrine (Shiso, Hyogo) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments:Ginkgo trees at Iwagami Shrine in Hyogo Prefecture. The yellow carpet and the ginkgo leaves dancing in the wind create an amazing, autumnal atmosphere. The grand prize goes to this photo, which captures a rare and spectacular view that can only be seen during the autumn foliage season. ■Honorable Mentions ・A harvest moon and otsukimi decorations ・Shrine maidens dancing at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine (Dazaifu, Fukuoka) ・The "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" Jizo statues at Daisho-in Temple (Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima) ・Silver grass on the Tonomine Highlands (Kanzaki, Hyogo) ・Rolls of straw after rice harvesting Click here to see the honorable mention photos [July 2021 - August 2021] The 6th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Summer in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: Lily0321 Location: The Fukagawa Festival (Koto, Tokyo) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments:The Fukagawa Festival is a festival held every year around August 15 at Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine in Koto, Tokyo. It is one of the Three Great Festivals of Edo and has a history of around 370 years. It is also known as the "Water Throwing Festival" because people splash water around to beat the heat. We were very impressed by the dynamism and the smiles of the participants splashing water on each other in the photo. We would like to award the Grand Prize to this photo that captures the spirit of traditional Japanese festivals. ■Honorable Mentions ・Blue skies and a red Mt. Fuji (Oshino, Yamanashi) ・Blue skies and a bicycle (Hyogo, Japan) ・Bug catching in the rice paddies ・The sea and terraced rice paddies (Hirado, Nagasaki) ・Children playing in a fountain (Toshima, Tokyo) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [May 2021 - June 2021] The 5th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Places in Japan you want to visit After Corona Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: Nguyen Vu Location: Umeda (Osaka City, Osaka) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments:This contest's grand prize winner is a scene of a Japanese city at night with neon lights. The lights in the downtown area, which we have always taken for granted, have become lonely due to Corona. We chose this work with the hope that the colorful neon lights and the smiling faces of the people will soon return. ■Honorable Mentions ・A couple wearing yukata at the Gion Festival (Kyoto City, Kyoto) ・A leopard at Asahiyama Zoo (Asahikawa, Hokkaido) ・Sunset at Chirihama Nagisa Driveway (Hakui, Ishikawa) ・Geiko in Higashiyama (Kyoto City, Kyoto) ・Fireworks in Noshiro (Noshiro, Akita) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [March 2021 - April 2021] The 4th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Spring in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: toru.s_ Location: Cherry blossoms and rape blossoms at Sakitama Kofun Park (Gyoda, Saitama) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments:Climbing up the hill you'll feel the breath of spring and discover beautiful scenery all around you. We would like to award the Grand Prize to the entry that expresses a path to hope, as if heading towards the exit of a Corona filled world. ■Honorable Mentions ・A horseback archery tournament (Towada, Aomori) ・A child walking along a path lined with cherry trees (Kaga, Ishikawa) ・Cherry blossoms and a sea of clouds at Omori Resort Village (Yokote, Akita) ・Snowy mountains and cherry blossoms at Oide Park (Hakuba, Nagano) ・An onagadori and plum blossoms Click here to see the honorable mention photos [January 2021 - February 2021] The 3rd COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Winter in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: rikopapa Location: Unknown CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments:One of the most popular New Year's activities is kite flying We're happy to see that this traditional game, which has been around since the Edo period, has been passed down to today's children. The cold winter air and the warmth of the sun's rays are so gentle that it almost feels as if they're watching over you. We'd like to award the Grand Prize to the photo that evokes said nostalgia. ■Honorable Mentions ・A snowy Atago Shrine (Beppu, Oita) ・The snowy landscape of the Kirigamine Highlands (Suwa, Nagano) ・The snowy townscape of Hida Takayama (Takayama, Gifu) ・Japanese macaques bathing in hot springs (Shimotakai, Nagano) ・Swans flying south for the winter (Azumino, Nagano) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [November 2020 - December 2020] The 2nd COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japanese Gourmet Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 5,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: しゅん Location: KUROMATSU Ramen (Takasaki, Gunma) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments:This is a photo that conveys the deliciousness of a popular ramen restaurant that's always attracting long lines of customers. The clear soup and neatly arranged noodles create a beautiful display. ■Honorable Mentions Here are the themes of the honorable mentions. ・Ozoni - Near Ishimizu Hachimangu Shrine (Kyoto City, Kyoto) ・Kaki-no-ha Sushi Yamanobe (Sakurai, Nara) ・Hana-bi Dango - Terakoya Honpo (Kyoto City, Kyoto) ・Shiruko - Toraya Kobo (Gotemba, Shizuoka) ・Fisherman's Pickled Seafood Bowl - Izu Kogen Brewery (Ito, Shizuoka) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [September 2020 - October 2020] The 1st COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: The Beauty of Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 200,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 50,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: Yuto Yamada Location: Daigoji Temple (Kyoto City, Kyoto) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments:This work matches the theme "The Beauty of Japan" and is a perfect fit for the Grand Prize. The sentimentality of autumn, the wabi-sabi of Japan, and the modesty of Japan are all expressed in a single photograph. The colors of the leaves and the colors of the kimono and Japanese umbrellas worn by the people match perfectly, making it a very attractive picture. ■Honorable Mentions ・The torii in the sky at Takaya Shrine (Kanonji, Kagawa) ・Fresh greenery at Hase Temple (Sakurai, Nara) ・Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi in winter (Kanagawa, Japan) ・Tea picking at Obuchi Sasaba with Mt. Fuji in the background (Fuji, Shizuoka) The grand prize for the memorable 1st COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest was 200,000 yen, with honorable mentions awarded 50,000 yen each! We received many submissions that conveyed the beauty of Japan. Many of the works included famous sightseeing spots and traditional events in Japan, the beautiful scenery of spring, summer, fall, and winter, as well as Japanese culture and history. In addition to one grand prize winner and five honorable mentions, 50 entries were selected from the first contest. Click here to see the honorable mention photos and other submissions The winning photos and other entries were used in the promotional video for COOL JAPAN VIDEOS. The 1 minute and 40 second video shows one beautiful photo after another with each photographer's name, and is a collection of Japan's "wabi-sabi." Please take a look at it. What is COOL JAPAN VIDEOS? COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social video curation site that introduces the charms of Japan to people all over the world who are interested in Japan. ・We carefully select and present attractive videos of Japan from major video sites ・Users can communicate with people all over the world by posting photos and commenting on videos ・You can have your own "My Page," and registration is completely free! Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests 「COOL JAPAN VIDEOS photo contests are open to everyone! Below is a partial list of what can be entered. ・Photos taken not only with SLR cameras and digital cameras, but also with smartphones and other devices can be submitted. ・You can submit as many photos as you like during the contest period. ・Image editing, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Detailed submission guidelines for COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests can be found at the bottom of the ongoing photo contest page. Current Photo Contest The following is information about the current photo contest. [Ongoing From September 2022] The 13th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Japan Travel Memories Submission period: September 1, 2022 12:00 AM - October 31, 2022 11:59 PM (Japan time) Prizes: ■Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card (1 Winner) ■Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card (5 Winners) Photo Contest -Japan Travel Memories - About Past Entries We received many great photos in our past photo contests! Click the link below to view past photo contest entries! ※Click here to see photos submitted in past contests. Photo Contest Summary We are always holding COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests! Not only professional photographers, but also beginner photographers are welcome to enter. Even just a casual shot taken via smartphone has a chance to be a winning photo! Help us introduce the beauty of Japan with the world. We're looking forward to receiving everyone's submissions! Related Articles Text only Photo Contest Landscape Photography - Introducing 10 Beautiful Japanese Landscapes Text only Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Heartwarming Photos That Will Put a Smile on Your Face! Text only Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Autumn in Japan Text only Hokkaido in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: From Popular Sightseeing Spots to Exotic Animals, Discover the Beauty of Japan's Northernmost Prefecture! .separation_line { border-width: 0 0 8px; border-style: solid; border-image: url('data:image/svg+xml,') 0 0 100% repeat; width: 216px; margin:auto; margin-bottom: 50px; }

capture the grandeur of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost prefecture. We'll introduce photos that capture popular sightseeing spots, the unique wildlife of Hokkaido, and more. We hope this will help you get an idea of what Hokkaido is all about! COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that introduces the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Our photo contests allow you to participate and even win with photos taken via your smartphone! Stick around to learn more! ■Table of Contents - Hokkaido in Past Photo Contests  Shirogane Blue Pond  Hill of the Buddha  Lake Nukabira  Daisetsuzan National Park  Abashiri Prison Museum  Flowerland Kamifurano  Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival  The Ezo Red Fox of Hokkaido  Mt. Asahi  Notsuke Peninsula - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Current Photo Contest - Summary of Hokkaido in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Hokkaido in Past Photo Contests We have picked out some amazing photos of Hokkaido from among the many wonderful entries that convey the charms of Japan. We'll also introduce some popular photo spots as well! COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 林 優 Location: Shirogane Blue Pond (Hokkaido) Sightseeing at Shirogane Blue Pond Shirogane Blue Pond is a popular sightseeing spot where the surface of the water appears various shades of blue during different seasons, at different times of the day, and in different weather conditions. The surface of the water appears blue when light reflects off the aluminum and sulfur in the water flowing into the pond from the Biei River. The blue water and withered larch trees create a fantastic scene. At night in fall and winter, the area is lit up and visitors can enjoy a very different scenery from that during the daytime. A Video Article About Shirogane Blue Pond in Biei, Hokkaido Video article 2:10 This Blue Pond in Biei, Hokkaido Is a Natural Miracle Created by Nature. The Beautiful Scenery of This Popular Sightseeing Spot Fascinates All Who See It! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: umestagram Location: Hill of the Buddha (Hokkaido) Highlights of the Hill of the Buddha, a Popular Tourist Attraction in Sapporo, Hokkaido From the outside of the Hill of the Buddha, only the head of the Great Buddha can be seen poking out from the top of the lavender-covered hill. Designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, the Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall) was built so that a concrete approach leads to the basement of the lavender hill. Looking up through the dimly lit space, visitors can see the Great Buddha surrounded by natural light filtering in through the open ceiling. A Video Article About the Hill of the Buddha in Sapporo, Hokkaido Video article 5:58 Hill of the Buddha - A New Attraction in Sapporo, Hokkaido Designed by a World-Famous Architect. Come Check Out the Buddha as He Pokes His Head Out From a Hill Surrounded by Lavenders! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 三浦奈津美 Location: Lake Nukabira (Kato, Hokkaido) Highlights of Lake Nukabira, a Popular Tourist Attraction in Kato, Hokkaido Lake Nukabira is a man-made lake surrounded by dense virgin forests. At the bottom of the lake is a large human-shaped rock called 'Nukabira.' Taushubetsu Bridge on the east bank of the dam is a concrete arch bridge of the former Japan National Railways' Shihoro Line. It is also called the "phantom bridge" because it appears in winter when the water level is low and sinks to the bottom of the lake and disappears when the water level increases. A Video Article About Lake Nukabira in Kato, Hokkaido Video article 2:40 Discover the Amazing Ice Bubbles at Lake Nukabira! Sightseeing Information for the Fantastical Lake in Hokkaido, Japan! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 古谷久樹 Location: Daisetsuzan National Park (Hokkaido) The Cute Northern Pika of Japan The northern pika is found only in some high-altitude areas of Hokkaido. It can fit in the palm of your hand, is 10 to 20 centimeters long, and weighs 60 to 160 grams. Its ears are round and small, and it's characterized by its frequent squeaking. In 2012, it was listed as a near-threatened species on the Red List of endangered species by the Ministry of the Environment. A Video Article About the Northern Pika Video article 3:01 The Northern Pika of Japan: Learn About the Cute Critter Known as the "God of Rocky Lands" and Found in the Outdoors of Hokkaido. Also See Its Characteristic High-Pitched Cry! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: HAYATO/日本の風景写真･絶景スポット Location: Abashiri Prison Museum (Abashiri, Hokkaido) Highlights of the Abashiri Prison Museum, a Popular Sightseeing Attraction in Abashiri, Hokkaido The Abashiri Prison Museum is an open-air history museum that preserves and exhibits the former buildings of Abashiri Prison. The wooden prison buildings that were used during the Meiji Era (1868-1912) have been relocated and reconstructed on a vast site. Eight of the buildings have been designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. There are also six registered Tangible Cultural Properties at the museum, including a building made of bricks made in the prison. Visitors can learn about the history of Abashiri Prison, which was instrumental in the development of Hokkaido, from the many exhibits. A Video Article About Tourist Attractions in Hokkaido Video article 3:30 Hokkaido - Endlessly Sweeping Horizons and Magnificent Scenery! Set off on a Trip to Hokkaido's Scenic Locations to Enjoy Spectacular Views of Japan's Natural Landscape! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 長野恵莉佳 Location: Flowerland Kamifurano Highlights of Flowerland Kamifurano, a Popular Tourist Attraction in Kamifurano, Hokkaido Flowerland Kamifurano is a vast flower garden where colorful flowers bloom from June to the end of September. It's a popular tourist attraction with magnificent views of the Tokachi Mountain range and Mt. Asahi. Admission is free, and visitors can ride a tractor bus that circles the 100,000-square-meter flower garden and enjoy the fresh Hokkaido breeze and the fragrance of the flowers in a relaxing atmosphere. A Video Article About Sightseeing in Biei and Furano, Hokkaido Video article 3:18 Outstanding Views of Flowers and Nature in Biei and Furano, Hokkaido. The Scenic View of Lavenders and Poppies, Together With the Natural Scenery of the Surrounding Area, Will Make Your Trip Unforgettable! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: koichi hakuchuu Location: Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival (Chitose, Hokkaido) The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival of Chitose, Hokkaido One of the top winter festivals in Hokkaido. The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, started by local volunteers, has a history of more than 40 years. Ice sculptures of various sizes are made by pumping up water from Lake Shikotsu and spraying it onto structures. The ice sculptures line the shores of Lake Shikotsu in the extreme cold, glowing with the blue color of Lake Shikotsu during the day and illuminated with colorful lights at night, creating a fantastic atmosphere. A Video Article About the Sapporo Snow Festival Video article 2:12 The Sapporo Snow Festival Popular Among Overseas Tourists! The Pure White Snow of Nature and Colorful Projection Mapping in the City of Sapporo, Hokkaido, in a Brilliant Competition! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: ぬこであります(´ー｀) Location: Kushiro, Hokkaido The Ezo Red Fox of Hokkaido, Japan The Ezo red fox is a widespread inhabitant of the plains and alpine zones of Hokkaido. In recent years, there have been reports of sightings in Aomori Prefecture as well. The Ezo red fox is slightly larger than the Japanese red foxes that inhabit Honshu (Japan's main island), measuring 60 to 80 centimeters in length. The backs of its ears and ankles are black, and their lifespan in the wild is about 6 to 7 years. A Video Article About the Ezo Red Fox Video article 3:15 Cute Ezo Red Foxes Playing in Hokkaido. Learn About the Wildlife of Japan! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: しま Location: Mt. Asahi (Kamikawa, Hokkaido) Highlights of Mt. Asahi, the Tallest Peak in Hokkaido Mt. Asahi, one of the One Hundred Famous Mountains of Japan, is the tallest peak in Hokkaido, located in the northern part of Daisetsuzan National Park. It is a 2,291-meter-high volcano, and the ropeway takes you to the fifth station at an altitude of 1,600 meters. Various alpine plants and magnificent mountain scenery can be enjoyed on Mt. Asahi. Trekking and cross-country skiing courses are available, so visitors can enjoy activities in all four seasons in the great outdoors of Hokkaido. A Video Article About Sightseeing in Hokkaido Video article 3:00 The Town of Wassamu, Hokkaido Is a Place Where You Can Enjoy All Four Seasons of Japan! Check Out the Attractions of Wassamu Town in Hokkaido, a Place You Won't Want to Miss! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: HAYATO/日本の風景写真･絶景スポット Location: Notsuke Peninsula (Hokkaido) Highlights of the Notsuke Peninsula The Notsuke Peninsula is a spit in the eastern part of Hokkaido, between the Shiretoko and Nemuro Peninsulas. The spit is approximately 26 kilometers long, and was created by sediment carried by ocean currents and deposited over many years. From spring to fall, the spit is covered with fields of Kamchatka lilies, zenteika, and beach roses. In winter, the entire area freezes over, creating ice as far as the eyes can see. The scenery of dead forests caused by the erosion from seawater is also very popular. A Video Article About the Yezo Sika Deer Inhabiting Hokkaido Video article 2:06 Yezo Sika Deer: Learn About the Magnificent Deer of Hokkaido's Snowy Notsuke Peninsula! All About Yezo Sika Deer and Their Problem as a Disruptive Species YouTube Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that shares the charms of Japan with people all over the world who are interested in Japan. Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS 「COOL JAPAN VIDEOS photo contests are open to everyone! Even a photo taken by chance with your smartphone could win a prize! Here are some of the features of our contests. ・Photos taken not only with SLR cameras and digital cameras, but also with smartphones and other devices can be submitted. ・You can submit as many photos as you like during the contest period. ・Image editing, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Here you can find all of the past photo contest winners in one place. You can also see the prizes for each contest, as well as the locations where the photos were taken and the judges' critiques. Click here to see past photo contest winners Text only Photo Contest Results - COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Winning Photos - Discover the Charms of Japan! Current Photo Contest The following is information about the current photo contest. [Ongoing From September 2022] The 13th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Japan Travel Memories Submission period: September 1, 2022 12:00 AM - October 31, 2022 11:59 PM (Japan time) Prizes: ■Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card (1 Winner) ■Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card (5 Winners) The 13th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Summary of Hokkaido in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests We hope you were able to experience the great outdoors of Hokkaido through these amazing photos entered into past photo contests on COOL JAPAN VIDEOS. Japan has many attractive locations, offering spectacular views of nature, breathtaking scenery, historic shrines and temples, and monuments with stunning architecture. In addition, the beauty of each of Japan's four seasons adds color to the country. With the spread of smartphones, the world of photography has become more accessible than ever before. We invite you to share the beauty of Japan with people around the world with COOL JAPAN VIDEOS. Related Articles Text only Photo Contest Landscape Photography - Introducing 10 Beautiful Japanese Landscapes YouTube Text only Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Heartwarming Photos That Will Put a Smile on Your Face! YouTube Text only Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Autumn in Japan YouTube Text only Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Showcasing the Different Views of Mt. Fuji YouTube .separation_line { border-width: 0 0 8px; border-style: solid; border-image: url('data:image/svg+xml,') 0 0 100% repeat; width: 216px; margin:auto; margin-bottom: 50px; }

Ubara Beach: Video Introduction This video, titled "Katsuura [Ubara Beach Surfing] Aerial Drone Footage in 4K" (勝浦「 鵜原海岸サーフィン」ドローン空撮 4K Drone Japan Surf), was uploaded by "7Sky Creative – Drone Boy" (ドローン男子 7sky creative). Ubara Beach is located in Katsuura, Chiba, in Japan's Kanto Region, and is part of Minami-Boso Quasi-National Park. The water at Ubara Beach is so clear that it has been called "the Okinawa of Kanto." With its rias coastline, Ubara Beach is a sightseeing spot where visitors can enjoy not only swimming in shallow waters, but also hiking courses and other outdoor activities. Be sure to check out the video showing aerial footage of Ubara Beach and surfing, taken via drone. Ubara Beach – A Slice of Okinawa in Chiba! Photo：Ubara Beach, Chiba Prefecture Ubara Beach in Katsuura, Chiba, is characterized by its clear waters and beautiful, pristine sandy beaches, and has been selected as one of the Top 100 Beaches in Japan. In summer, a beach is opened in the center of the sandy beach facing Ubara Bay, attracting many people. In addition to swimming and playing on the beach, the area is also known for marine activities, such as snorkeling and surfing. The Ubara Coast, which includes the Ubara Beach, is also known as a fishing spot, where you can catch fish, such as Japanese whiting, Japanese halibut, and Japanese black porgy. Furthermore, there are facilities for camping in the vicinity. It has been announced that beach houses will open from July 16, 2022, for the first time in three years, so the area is expected to be crowded this summer. Please note that jellyfish are present during the Obon season (Aug. 13 - Aug. 15), so please be careful when swimming in the sea. The White Torii Gate of Ubara Beach – The Perfect Photo Spot Photo：The white torii gate at Ubara Beach, Chiba Prefecture The white torii gate that stands on the Ubara Beach belongs to Yasaka Shrine, and is a tourist attraction that attracts many visitors to the area. The reason for its popularity is that, unlike the vermillion torii gates at most shrines, this torii gate is pure white. The beautiful contrast between the blue seas and skies and the white torii gate attracts many instagrammers and photographers. Also on the Ubara Coast, the "Ubara Daimyo Gyoretsu" is held every year on the fourth Saturday in July. This is a spectacular procession of daimyo that is celebrated along with "Ohamaori," a festival in which a portable shrine leaving Yasaka Shrine makes its way to the white torii gate. The procession parades through the town of Ubara and along Ubara beach for several hours with loud chanting. Unfortunately, the daimyo procession has been canceled in 2022. Let's look forward to next year's event! You can see the white tower in the video. [Video] 2:56 - The White Torii Gate of Yasaka Shrine Other Popular Beaches in Katsuura, Chiba Photo：Moriya Beach, Chiba Prefecture In addition to Ubara Beach, there are other attractive beaches in Katsuura as well. Below are two such beaches. [Moriya Beach] Moriya Beach, like Ubara Beach, is located in Minami-Boso National Park, with beautiful scenery, including reefs and sandy beaches, and has also been selected as one of the Top 100 Beaches in Japan by the Ministry of the Environment. Watashima Island is a small island located 170 meters offshore, and is a distinctive feature of the beach. [Okitsu Beach] This beach faces Okitsu Port, and is known for its calm waves that allow for swimming. It has been selected as one of the "100 Best Beaches for Swimming" by the Ministry of the Environment, and is a popular beach for families. Summary of Ubara Beach, Chiba If you still haven't seen the video showing Ubara Beach be sure to check it out! It's a popular tourist spot for families as well as anglers, surfers, and people who enjoy marine sports. If you're planning on visiting, be sure to check the weather and wave reports in advance so you can enjoy swimming, surfing, and other marine sports to the fullest. Ubara Beach is just a 5-minute walk from Ubara Station via the JR Sotobo Line, and has a parking lot that can accommodate 300 cars. If you're planning to stay overnight during your sightseeing trip to Katsuura, Chiba, you can stay at a guest house or hotel near Ubara Beach, or if you want to enjoy some barbecue, you can use an auto-camping site. Bottle rockets are prohibited on the beach, but hand-held fireworks are allowed, so feel free to bring your own fireworks if you're staying overnight. Make some summer memories at Ubara Beach this summer in Chiba! 【TripAdvisor】Ubara Beach https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021249-d2241695-Reviews-Ubara_Beach-Katsuura_Chiba_Prefecture_Kanto.html

COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always holding photo contests. In this article, we'll introduce some of the entries submitted to past photo contest, in which children were the subjects of the photos. Along with the photos, we'll also introduce related articles and other information. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that introduces the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Our photo contests allow you to participate and even win with photos taken via your smartphone! Stick around to learn more! ■Table of Contents - Children of Past Photo Contests  A Tunnel of Cherry Blossoms  Summer Vacation Down by the River  Summer Is Here!  Two Smiles in This Sunflower Field!  Good Old Japan...  Splashing About in Tokyo  Mikan Picking in Tsukuihama  Shichi-Go-San  Snow Shoveling After Playing in the Snow  A Little Oni With a Rattle Drum - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Current Photo Contest - Summary of Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Children of Past Photo Contests From the many entries to our past photo contests, we have selected some of the most wonderful photos that feature children. CoolJapanVideos Photographer: Haya A Tunnel of Cherry Blossoms and a Hint of Dandelions… The warm spring weather and ephemeral cherry blossoms are simply enchanting. Even children are moved by the beauty of nature. A boy gleefully runs with dandelions through a tunnel of beautiful cherry blossoms. This is a work that warms the hearts of those who see it. An Article on Kenroku-en Garden, Selected as One of the Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan Video article 7:32 Straight Out of the Edo Period! Enjoy Traveling Back in Time With the Quaint Atmosphere of Kanazawa City! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: rikopapa Summer Vacation Down by the River A retreat from the crowds and an escape into nature to avoid the feeling of isolation caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Summer feels just a little bit cooler while splashing around in a river hidden in the mountains! The sun shines through the trees like a spotlight on the children frolicking in the river. An article on the NAGATORO AUTO CAMP SITE; Just 2 Hours From Tokyo Video article 7:32 NAGATORO AUTO CAMP SITE - Great for Families and Women! Spacious Campsites and Lodging Facilities, and Water-Based Activities! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: reichan84 Summer Is Here! Straw Hats, Yukata & Ice Cream! A girl enjoying summer and an exuberant smile! She's wearing her favorite straw hat and a yukata while munching on some watermelon ice cream! This picture, taken against a backdrop of rich greenery, depicts a vibrant summer. She probably broke out into an even more wonderful smile after enjoying some of that ice cream! An Article on How to Wear a Yukata Video article 11:59 The Yukata Is an Essential Item of Clothing for Summer Festivals and Hot Spring Trips! Learn the Tips and Tricks of Putting on a Yukata! We’ll Teach You How! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: N♡A Two Smiles in This Sunflower Field! A boy in overalls and a tall sunflower standing side by side cheerfully. If you look closely, you'll notice both the boy and sunflower are smiling. The white T-shirt and overalls look so refreshing against the blue sky and verdure. It's a photo with which you can feel the excitement of a warm summer. An Article About Sunflower Fields Video article 1:23 Akeno Sunflower Field in Hokuto, Yamanashi: A Breathtaking View of Nearly 600,000 Sunflowers in Bloom! Home To the Akeno Sunflower Festival and the Filming Location of a Popular Movie! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: st situation Location: Aina Satoyama Park (Kobe, Hyogo) Good Old Japan... Watermelon on the Porch and a Cute Mosquito Coil A shot of the Japanese countryside, taken at Aina Satoyama Park. It was also the location for the Rurouni Kenshin live-action film. The hanging onions, old-fashioned lanterns inside the rooms, and dog lying on the ground creates an atmospheric scene like something out of a Japanese painting. An Article on Sightseeing in Hyogo Prefecture Video article 7:28 Hyogo Prefecture Is a Fascinating Tourist Destination With Plenty of Delicious Food, Beautiful Scenery, Rich History, and Natural Landscapes! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: 長谷部なおき Location: Ikebukuro Nishiguchi Park (Toshima, Tokyo) Splashing About in Tokyo Children splash around with water guns in their hands under the summer sun. It's a scene that would make even the adults watching over them somewhat envious. Ikebukuro Nishiguchi Park is just outside the west exit of Ikebukuro Station. Located in front of the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Space, it's a place where many people come and go and various events are held there as well. An Article About Hands-on Children's Experiences in Tokyo Video article 3:55 KidZania Tokyo Is a Popular Place Where Children Can Experience Their Dream Job! Learn About Its Features, Appeal and the Types of Jobs Available! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: wataru Location: A Mikan Orchard in Tsukuihama (Yokosuka, Kanagawa) Mikan Picking in Tsukuihama In Japan, mikan are a common sight when the weather gets cold. Many children probably don't even know that mikan grow on trees. This photo captures a child enjoying picking fruit while surrounded by nature. The excitement can be seen in her eyes. Nothing tastes better than a freshly picked mikan straight from the tree! An Article on Sightseeing in Kanagawa Prefecture Video article 7:01 There Are So Many Fascinating Places to Visit in Kanagawa Prefecture! World-Famous Sightseeing Spots in Kanagawa Are Brilliantly Introduced With Smooth Dancing! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: kyokyo Location: Yasaka Shrine (Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture) The Excitement After Getting Your Picture Taken on Shichi-Go-San Shichi-Go-San is a traditional Japanese rite of passage for three- and seven-year-old girls, and 5-year-old boys. Featured here is a 7-year-old girl excited after getting her pictures taken while wearing a kimono, obi, and a hairstyle that she would have been particular of. A professional photo taken at a studio is something to treasure, but a photo where you can let loose and enjoy the moment is something special. An Article on Autumn Colors at Eikando, Kyoto in Autumn Video article 2:00 Eikando Temple - Beautiful Autumn Foliage at a Famous Japanese Temple in Kyoto YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: まな Snow Shoveling After Playing in the Snow Children in areas that don't get much snow tend to be fascinated by the winter wonderland they see after opening their windows. After playing in the snow 'til their cheeks are bright red, they're eager to help with the snow shoveling! Their hard work shows how proud they are of their efforts. An Article on Snowy Landscapes in Japan Video article 7:26 Japan's Most Beautiful Snow-Covered Scenery and Popular Tourist Spots That'll Look Great on Your Instagram! The Country, Dyed in a Beautiful White, Shows a Different Face Than Most Are Used To YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: めめめ09 A Little Oni With a Rattle Drum in Hand The custom of bean-throwing during Setsubun, a traditional Japanese event, is said to drive away evil spirits and bring good fortune. At nursery schools and other events, children can be seen throwing beans at the ogres, saying, "Out with demons! In with fortune!" However, the oni in this photo is so cute that you might be tempted to just give him a handful of beans. This is a photo of a cute little oni walking around in a good mood while spinning his rattle drum. An Article on an Oni Banishing Ritual During Setsubun Video article 4:26 Banish the Ogres at the 'Oni Banishing Ritual' of Iwashimizu Hachimangu in Kyoto! Setsubun Is a Traditional Japanese Festival That Involves Throwing Beans at Demons to Drive Away Evil Spirits, and Has Been Passed Down From Generation to Generation Since Ancient Times in Japan YouTube Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that shares the charms of Japan with people all over the world who are interested in Japan. Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS 「COOL JAPAN VIDEOS photo contests are open to everyone! Here are some of the features of our current contest. ・Photos taken not only with SLR cameras and digital cameras, but also with smartphones and other devices can be submitted. ・You can submit as many photos as you like during the contest period. ・Image editing, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Here you can find all of the past photo contest winners in one place. You can also see the prizes for each contest, as well as the locations where the photos were taken and the judges' critiques. Click here to see past photo contest winners Text only Photo Contest Results - COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Winning Photos - Discover the Charms of Japan! Current Photo Contest The following is information about the current photo contest. [Ongoing From September 2022] The 13th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Japan Travel Memories Submission period: September 1, 2022 12:00 AM - October 31, 2022 11:59 PM (Japan time) Prizes: ■Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card (1 Winner) ■Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card (5 Winners) Photo Contest -Japan Travel Memories - Summary of Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Among the many entries to our photo contests, we thought that the children featured in some photos were very impactful. The smiling faces of these children are a source of inspiration. The expressions and behaviors of small children change in the blink of an eye, and it can often be difficult to capture the best moments. However, out of the hundreds of photos you might take, there's sure to be one that stands out from the rest, and it's sure to be treasured for years to come. We invite you to share your photos of Japan with the people of the world by submitting them to COOL JAPAN VIDEOS. Related Articles Text only Photo Contest Landscape Photography - Introducing 10 Beautiful Japanese Landscapes Text only Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Autumn in Japan Text only Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Showcasing the Different Views of Mt. Fuji YouTube Text only Hokkaido in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: From Popular Sightseeing Spots to Exotic Animals, Discover the Beauty of Japan's Northernmost Prefecture! .separation_line { border-width: 0 0 8px; border-style: solid; border-image: url('data:image/svg+xml,') 0 0 100% repeat; width: 216px; margin:auto; margin-bottom: 50px; }

Tōrō Nagashi Floating Lanterns This video is "Hiroshima Peace Memorial Lantern Float 2018（広島平和記念公園灯篭流し2018）," created by "kaz watakabe," and it introduces the lantern flow at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Hiroshima City (広島市, Hiroshima shi) in Hiroshima prefecture, in Japan's Chugoku region, was where the atomic bomb was dropped during World War II. In Hiroshima City, a lantern celebration is held on August 6th every year at the Motoyasu river (元安川, Motoyasugawa), Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, located on the shore opposite of the Atomic Bomb Dome. Make sure to visit Hiroshima City to see the traditional lanterns that mourn the souls of the war dead. In the lantern flow held at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima Prefecture in 2018, featured in the video, colorful lanterns illuminated by lights make a fantastic image as they slowly float down the river. In this article, we'll introduce the history of lanterns and the prayers that go with them. Be sure to follow along with the video. The Origin and History of the Ancient Japanese Ceremonial Bonfire Photo： Buddhist altar In August, lantern floats are held in various parts of Japan. This is a kind of festival called the Bon Festival in Japan. The festival acts as a memorial service to send off the souls of the deceased. In some areas, in addition to lit lanterns, there are also bon festival offerings. The origin and history of Japan's bon festival are unclear, but it is said that these festivals were already taking place in various places during the Heian period (794-1185 AD), more than 1200 years ago. The Floating Lanterns Contain Prayers for Peace Photo：Hiroshima Lantern Float The atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima City, Japan, on August 6, 1945. Hiroshima City holds the Peace Memorial Ceremony on August 6th every year in the hope that the memories of the tragic war that caused many casualties, not be seen again. After the ceremony is over and the sun goes down, beautiful lanterns float down the Motoyasu River next to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park with hopes of peace. The video introduces this lantern float throughout its entirety, so be sure to follow along and see the beauty of the lanterns as they float downstream. Participate in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park's Lantern Float Visitors to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park are welcome to participate in the lantern floating ceremony. After receiving colored paper and candles at the reception tent on the day of the event, you can write messages on the colored paper with wishes for peace, comfort and repose. After the candles are lit, the lanterns float down the river carrying the wishes of the people. Volunteers are also needed for the Hiroshima Peace Park lantern floating event. If you're interested in participating in the lantern floating event, you can apply to volunteer to help with the reception and assembly of the lanterns. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Lanterns Float Summary Photo：Lanterns At the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, more than 10,000 lanterns are washed down the Motoyasu River. As you can see in the video, this event is filled with prayers of many people hoping for peace. You can also enjoy the size and beauty of the event throughout the video. We hope you will participate in the lantern floating event at the Hiroshima Memorial Park, which is meant to repose the souls of those who died in the atomic bombing and to mourn the loss of loved ones. ◆ Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Facility Overview ◆ 【Address】1-1, Nakajima-cho, Naka-ku, Hiroshima-shi, Hiroshima 730-0811, Japan 【Access】About 20 minutes by bus from JR Hiroshima Station 【Entrance fee】Free 【Hours】24 hours 【Closures】None 【Parking】 None 【Telephone No】082-504-2390

COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always holding photo contests. This time, we have selected photos that capture the majestic Mt. Fuji, located on the border of Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures. We'll also introduce the locations where the photos were taken, so be sure to enjoy each one so you don't miss out on some useful information! COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that introduces the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Our photo contests allow you to participate and even win with photos taken via your smartphone! Stick around to learn more! ■Table of Contents - Mt. Fuji in Past Photo Contests  The Aftermath of the Hoei Eruption  Swans at Lake Yamanaka  The Tea Fields of Obuchi Sasaba  Fujiyoshida  Oshino Hakkai  Aka-Fuji  The Daikanzan Observatory  Kawaguchi Asama Shrine  The Fumotoppara Campground  The Takabocchi Highlands - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Current Photo Contest - Summary of Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Mt. Fuji in Past Photo Contests Let's take a look at some of the wonderful photos taken of Mt. Fuji from the many fantastic works that convey the beauty of Japan. COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 01ktk15 Location: Mizugatsuka Park (Susono, Shizuoka) A Place Where You Can Photograph the Aftermath of the Hoei Eruption Fuji's flanks were blown away by the Hoei Eruption in 1707 during the Edo period (1603-1868 AD), forming the bowl-shaped Hoei Crater. At Mizugatsuka Park, you can photograph the crater in its entirety as it changes from season to season. The crater is located along the Fuji Skyline, near the second station of Mt. Fuji at an elevation of 1,450 meters. You can capture powerful compositions that include the beauty of Mt. Fuji, while reminding you that it's still a mighty volcano. An Article About Mt. Fuji Video article 4:21 Fuji - Japan's Largest Tourist Attraction and the Pride of the Country. Its Mysterious Beauty Fascinates All Who See It YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: タケタロ Location: Lake Yamanaka (Minamitsuru, Yamanashi) When to See Swans at Lake Yamanaka Swans can usually be seen at Lake Yamanaka around December and fly back north around March or April. Some species of swans are don't migrate, and instead lay eggs and raise their young in the grassy knolls along the shores of Lake Yamanaka in spring. Mt. Fuji is located to the southwest of Lake Yamanaka. If you're looking to capture the majestic Mt. Fuji with beautiful swans and snowy winter scenery in one photograph, the northern shore of Lake Yamanaka is your best bet. A Sightseeing Article About Lake Yamanaka Video article 1:53 Go Sightseeing at Lake Yamanaka, Nestled at the Foot of the Sacred Mt. Fuji! The Yamanakako Area, Surrounded by Nature, Is One of the Top Sightseeing Destinations in Japan! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: phantastic420 Location: Obuchi Sasaba (Fuji, Shizuoka) The Tea Fields of Obuchi Sasaba Obuchi Sasaba in the Obuchi district of Fuji City is a photo spot where you can capture Mt. Fuji over vast tea fields with no power lines or buildings to obstruct your view. Many photographers come to capture the verdant tea fields with the towering Mt. Fuji in the backdrop. Located about 10 minutes by car from the Tomei-Fuji and Shin-Tomei Shin-Fuji interchanges, the best time to visit is when the tea leaves are sprouting, particularly from mid-April to mid-May. An Article About Tea Fields and Mt. Fuji Video article 2:09 Obuchi Sasaba - Beautiful Tea Fields and Mt. Fuji in Shizuoka, Japan! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Yuto Yamada Location: Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Fujiyoshida, a Town With an Amazing View of Mt. Fuji Fujiyoshida, in Yamanashi prefecture, is the closest town to Mt. Fuji and features spectacular views of the mountain. In particular, at Arakurayama Sengen Park, it's possible to capture Mt. Fuji, cherry blossoms, and the 5-story Chureito Pagoda in one frame. Fuji, cherry blossoms, and the five-story pagoda in the frame. On top of the cherry blossoms in spring, visitors can enjoy the depth and splendor of each season here, including the fresh greenery of summer, the autumn foliage in fall, and the splendid snow landscapes in winter, all of which are sure to delight. An Article on Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine in Fujiyoshida Video article 3:16 Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine - Learn About One of Japan's Most Famous Power Spots, Located in Yamanashi Prefecture, Where the Sacred Mt. Fuji Resides, and Information About Popular Amulets and Shuin Stamps for Tourists! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Nguyen Vu Location: Oshino Hakkai (Minamitsuru, Yamanashi) The Beautiful Oshino Hakkai Oshino Hakkai is a sacred spring located at the foot of the natural monument, Mt. Fuji, and is considered a power spot. The pure spring water from Mt. Fuji, a sacred mountain, is said to hold sacred power. This photo conveys the atmosphere and purity of Oshino Hakkai. If you visit Oshino Hakkai, be sure to take a picture, as it will be treasured for a lifetime. An Article on Oshino Hakkai Video article 4:22 Oshino Hakkai - Breathtaking Scenery at the Foot of Mt. Fuji! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Phúc Jindo Location: Oshino, Yamanashi Photographing the Auspicious Aka-Fuji Aka-Fuji (Red Fuji) has long been a symbol of good luck for warding off evil spirits and bringing prosperity to business. It is a sight that photographers all over Japan hope to see. However, the conditions for photographing Aka-Fuji are very specific. Aka-Fuji can only be seen from the eastern side of the mountain from late summer to early autumn, just after sunrise, and on a clear day after rain. If you're a photographer and up for a challenge, we definitely recommend trying to capture this beautiful sight. An Article About Narusawa, Yamanashi, Located at the Foot of Mt. Fuji Video article 2:40 Introducing “Narusawa, Yamanashi,” Home to the Tallest Mountain in Japan. Behold the Jaw Droppingly Beautiful Scenery of Mt. Fuji. YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 01ktk15 Location: Daikanzan Observatory (Ashigarashita, Kanagawa) A Breathtaking View From the Daikanzan Observatory The name "Daikanzan" (lit. "Large Viewing Mountain") comes from the artist Yokoyama Taikan, who liked to paint Mt. Fuji from the Sky Lounge at the summit of the 1,011-meter-tall mountain. The spectacular view makes for an excellent photo and will take up a special place in your heart. It's especially popular in winter when the air is crisp and clear. Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashinoko covered with snow is guaranteed to result in a dignified work of art. An Article on the Best Places to View Mt. Fuji Video article 7:32 The Graceful Sight of the World-Famous Mount Fuji Can Be Enjoyed From All Over Japan. This Article Will Help You Find a Spot to View Mt. Fuji That’s Just Right for You! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Phúc Jindo Location: Kawaguchi Asama Shrine (Minamitsuru, Yamanashi) Kawaguchi Asama Shrine – A Torii in the Sky Kawaguchi Asama Shrine was built to worship Mt. Fuji's god, Sengen-O-no-kami, in order to quell a major volcanic eruption of Mt. Fuji. The torii gate is located approximately 30 minutes on foot from the shrine grounds, and the view of Mt. Fuji is beautiful beyond words. It's also called the "Torii in the Sky," and is a recommended spot known for being especially picturesque. An Article on Kawaguchi Chigo no Mai at Kawaguchi Asama Shrine Video article 3:15 Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine, Now a World Cultural Heritage Site! A Look at the Beautiful Traditional Dance, "Kawaguchi Chigo no Mai"! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: mioka Location: Fumotoppara Campground (Fujinomiya, Shizuoka) Mt Fuji From the Fumotoppara Campground The best part about the Fumotoppara Campground is that you can see Mt. Fuji in its entirety from the summit to the base. It is truly a picturesque view. Located in Fujinomiya, the Asagiri Plateau, known for its foggy appearance, is also in the vicinity. At the Fumotoppara Campground, a place loved by campers, you can experience the outdoors with a magnificent view of Mt. Fuji. An Article on the Yamanakako Fuji Snow Festival Video article 3:10 Enjoy the Beauty of Mt. Fuji to the Fullest at the Yamanakako Fuji Snow Festival! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: HKP Location: Takabocchi Highlands (Shiojiri, Nagano) Mt. Fuji From the Takabocchi Highlands From the summit of the mountain, which offers a 360-degree view of the Takabocchi Highlands, Lake Suwa, the lights of the city by the lake, and the sea of clouds all add to the main attraction of Mt. Fuji. The area is especially spectacular from autumn, when the air is clear and the night views are spectacular, to the time when the access road is closed for the winter. It's hard to take a better picture than Mt. Fuji and a sea of clouds, early in the morning, before the sun rises and when the sky is tinted orange. An Article on the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre Video article 2:32 The Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre Is a New-Age Museum That Fuses Digital and Analog! The Museum, Located in Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi, Is Full of Facilities That Convey the Beauty of the World Heritage Site Mt. Fuji! YouTube Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that shares the charms of Japan with people all over the world who are interested in Japan. Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS 「COOL JAPAN VIDEOS photo contests are open to everyone! Even a photo taken by chance with your smartphone could win a prize! Here are some of the features of our contests. ・Photos taken not only with SLR cameras and digital cameras, but also with smartphones and other devices can be submitted. ・You can submit as many photos as you like during the contest period. ・Image editing, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Here you can find all of the past photo contest winners in one place. You can also see the prizes for each contest, as well as the locations where the photos were taken and the judges' critiques. Click here to see past photo contest winners Text only Photo Contest Results - COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Winning Photos - Discover the Charms of Japan! Current Photo Contest The following is information about the current photo contest. [Ongoing From September 2022] The 13th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Japan Travel Memories Submission period: September 1, 2022 12:00 AM - October 31, 2022 11:59 PM (Japan time) Prizes: ■Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card (1 Winner) ■Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card (5 Winners) COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Japan Travel Memories Summary of Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Did you enjoy these photos showing the beauty of Mt. Fuji? All of these were submitted to our past photo contest. There are some very popular photo spots included as well. Mt. Fuji has various appearances, changing with Japan's four seasons, as well as natural conditions, and time of day. We hope these photos of Mt. Fuji, a symbol of Japan and a World Heritage Site, will reach people around the world. We invite you to share the beauty of Japan with people around the world with COOL JAPAN VIDEOS. Related Articles Text only Photo Contest Landscape Photography - Introducing 10 Beautiful Japanese Landscapes YouTube Text only Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Heartwarming Photos That Will Put a Smile on Your Face! YouTube Text only Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Autumn in Japan YouTube Text only Hokkaido in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: From Popular Sightseeing Spots to Exotic Animals, Discover the Beauty of Japan's Northernmost Prefecture! .separation_line { border-width: 0 0 8px; border-style: solid; border-image: url('data:image/svg+xml,') 0 0 100% repeat; width: 216px; margin:auto; margin-bottom: 50px; }

Introducing the “Mishima Festival” in Mishima, Shizuoka This video “[Official] MISHIMA FESTIVAL JAPAN" (しゃぎり!歴史ロマン!【公式】三嶋大祭りMISHIMA FESTIVAL JAPAN) is a promotional video of a festival with a profound history that is held in Mishima, Shizuoka. Mishima Festival is held from August 15th to 17th and it is a summer tradition in Mishima, Shizuoka, in Japan's Tokai region. Please enjoy the video of the traditional Japanese parade floats. Mishima Festival Day 1: Floats and Flutes Source :YouTube screenshot Mishima Grand Festival, one of the summer festivals in Mishima, Shizuoka Prefecture, is held from August 15 to 17 and is one of the main festivals of Mishima-taisha. On the first day of festival, you'll see floats decorated with drums, bells, and chimes parading throughout the town. Hearing the noises beckons people to continue to observe the activity. Please check the video at 0:22 and see the dynamic parade floats. They're perfect for taking Instagram photos. If you watch the video at 0:31, you'll see the sunset and the lanterns on the floats shine throughout the town. Mishima Festival Day 2: Traditional Culture August 16th is day 2 for the Mishima Festival, and it is a day for traditional culture. On the second day, there will be a parade as well as the formal ceremony of Minamotono Yoritomo raising an army. Minamotono Yoritomo is a samurai with a history in Shizuoka. Every year, a Japanese celebrity performs the role of Minamotono Yoritomo, therefore, it attracts many visitors. Please check out the video at 0:50 to see an actor playing Minamotono Yoritomo. The performance and the armor of the participants for this event is very impressive. There are more performances such as the Kid’s Flute Piece and the dedication of Ninjomai and Uyarasumai. At 1:01 in the video, we see the Tezutsu fireworks display which is truly a magical sight. Mishima Festival Day 3: The Day of Dancing Source :YouTube screenshot August 17th is the last day, and it is a day for dancing. On the last day, Yabusame Shinji is held, and many people visit to see this exciting event. Please see the video at 1:16 to see what Yabusame Shinji is. Different performances, such as folk songs and the Mishima sun parade will heat up the festival. At night, a religious ceremony will conclude the three-day festival. Summary of the Mishima Festival in Mishima, Shizuoka Source :YouTube screenshot Towards the end of the video at 1:38, many people get on Yagura (a wooden stage) and perform Mishima Bayashi. There is a raffle event at Mishima Festival. Fans are distributed to visitors, and each one has a different number on it. If you have a winning number, you can receive gift such as gift cards and more. Be sure to watch the video to see more details of the festival. The Mishima Festival in Mishima, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a grand festival that enlivens Shizuoka during the summer season. Wear a Yukata (summer kimono) and enjoy the delicious food from the different stalls scattered about the market. On the day of the festival, you can use the Mishima-taisha parking lot and the city's central parking lot, but there are traffic restrictions at nearby spots, so please leave early and plan ahead. 【Official Website】Mishima Festival https://www.mishima-cci.com/maturi/ 【Tripadvisor】Mishima Festival https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g780865-d1313050-r606940142-Mishima_Taisha_Shrine-Mishima_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always holding photo contests. This time, we have selected photos that convey the beauty of Japan's Tohoku region from among those submitted to our past photo contests. From popular tourist attractions to picturesque shots of natural phenomena, we've got an amazing list of photos lined up for you to enjoy! COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that introduces the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Our photo contests allow you to participate and even win with photos taken via your smartphone! Stick around to learn more! ■Table of Contents - Tohoku in Past Photo Contests  Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata Prefecture)  Risshakuji Temple (Yamagata Prefecture)  Fudosawa Bridge (Fukushima Prefecture)  Goshikinuma Ponds (Fukushima Prefecture)  Zao Fox Village (Miyagi Prefecture)  Okama Crater (Miyagi Prefecture)  An igloo (Yokote, Akita Prefecture)  Ashino Park (Goshogawara, Aomori Prefecture)  Tsutanuma Pond (Towada, Aomori Prefecture)  A white rainbow at Hachimantai (Hachimantai, Iwate Prefecture) - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Current Photo Contest - Summary of Tohoku in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Tohoku in Past Photo Contests We have picked out some amazing photos of Japan's Tohoku region from among the many wonderful entries that convey the charms of Japan. We'll also introduce some popular photo spots as well! Enjoy! COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: もつ Location: Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata Prefecture) Highlights of Ginzan Onsen, a Popular Tourist Attraction Lined with wooden, multi-story Western-style inns, Ginzan Onsen has a retro-modern townscape reminiscent of Japan's Taisho period (1912-1926). The best time to visit Ginzan Onsen, which attracts photographers from all over the world, is during the snowy winter season (January to February). The landscape illuminated by the orange glow of gas lamps, essential for a nostalgic atmosphere, makes for a tasteful and chic photo. Onsen ryokan (hot spring inns) with open-air baths where visitors can bathe while viewing the snowy scenery are very popular. Enjoy the fantastic Ginzan Onsen covered with snow. A Video Article About Snowscapes in Japan Video article 7:26 Japan's Most Beautiful Snow-Covered Scenery and Popular Tourist Spots That'll Look Great on Your Instagram! The Country, Dyed in a Beautiful White, Shows a Different Face Than Most Are Used To YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Yuta Aihara Location: Risshakuji Temple (Yamagata Prefecture) Highlights of Risshakuji Temple, a Popular Tourist Attraction Hoshuzan Risshakuji Temple is the setting for the famous haiku poem Such stillness Sinking into the rocks The shrill of the cicadas by the master haiku poet Matsuo Basho in his travelogue The Narrow Road to the Deep North. The temple is also known as a 'yamadera' (mountain temple) and belongs to the Tendai Sect of Buddhism in Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture. Climb the narrow stairs to reach the top of the temple. The platform, which juts out from the cliff, offers a breathtakingly beautiful view and is a popular photo spot for visitors. A Video Article About Risshakuji Temple in Yamagata Prefecture Video article 3:32 1,015 Steps to the Top of Risshaku-ji Temple in Yamagata, Yamagata Prefecture. A National Site of Scenic Beauty, With a View That Moved Even the Famous Poet Matsuo Basho! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 山川 さおり Location: Fudosawa Bridge (Fukushima Prefecture) Highlights of Tsubakuro Valley, a Popular Tourist Attraction Fudosawa Bridge spans the scenic Tsubakuro Valley along the Bandai-Azuma Skyline. In autumn, it's a spectacular spot to photograph the autumn leaves, and if the sky over Fukushima City is overcast, there is a good chance to see a sea of clouds. If the live camera on Route 115 shows clear views of Fudosawa and Jododaira, consider driving to the top of the clouds. We guarantee you'll take photos that will make you think you're in heaven. A Video Article About the Aizu-Tadami Koyo-go Steam Locomotive Video article 2:06 Aizu-Tadami Koyo-go - A Steam Locomotive Running Through Beautiful Autumn Foliage! Selected As One of the "Top Ten Railway Lines With Beautiful Autumn Foliage," This Train Still Runs As a Classic Steam Locomotive! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: めんま Location: Goshikinuma Ponds (Fukushima Prefecture) Highlights of Goshikinuma Pond, a Popular Tourist Attraction Goshikinuma is a group of lakes and swamps created by the eruption of Mount Bandai in Aizu. The water of the lakes come in a variety of colors, such as emerald green and cobalt blue, fascinating visitors and leading to the nickname the 'Lakes of Mystery." From mid-October to early November, the best season for viewing the autumn foliage, visitors are mesmerized by the colorful autumn leaves and the beautiful ponds. Aonuma, which has a more mysterious atmosphere than the other lakes, is especially recommended. The contrast with the autumn leaves is exceptional. A Video Article About Goshikinuma Video article 4:05 This Place Screams Instagram! The Cobalt Blue Waters of Fukushima's "Goshikinuma" Are Out of This World! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: だいだい@名前のつかない写真展 Location: Zao Fox Village (Miyagi Prefecture) Highlights of Zao Fox Village, a Popular Tourist Attraction Located in Shiroishi, Miyagi, Zao Fox Village is Japan's only zoo for foxes. The zoo has more than 100 foxes of various species that are raised free range, and visitors can see them from up close. The best time to visit is from spring to early summer, as holding a newborn fox cub is a popular activity. Visitors can capture the cute foxes in their natural habitat during a 2-3 hour stay. A Video Article About Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture Video article 4:58 Play With Adorable Foxes at Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture. This Facility, Where Approximately 100 Foxes Run Free, Is Sure to Make for a Memorable Experience! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Syohei photography Location: Okama Crater (Miyagi Prefecture) Highlights of Zao's Okama Crater, a Popular Tourist Attraction One of the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains in Japan, Mt. Zao is located on the border between Miyagi and Yamagata prefectures. Okama Crater, a popular tourist attraction there, is a crater lake surrounded by three mountains and is a symbol of Zao, along with the famous ice monsters (ice-covered trees). Visitors can enjoy Okama Crater from late April to early November. Be sure to bring a jacket, as temperatures are low even during the summer months. According to locals, the recommended time to visit is in the morning, even on clear days. You may be able to see the stunning emerald green surface of the water. Please note that the dedicated road to the crater is closed during the winter. A Video Article About Zao in Yamagata Prefecture Video article 2:13 Zao - Where Fantastic Ice Trees Stretch as Far as the Eye Can See. Referred to as "Ice Monsters" This Destination in Yamagata Prefecture Is Very Popular Among Foreign Tourists YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 小西直昭 Location: An igloo (Yokote, Akita Prefecture) Highlights of the Yokote Snow Festival, a Popular Tourist Attraction The Yokote Snow Festival is said to have a history of approximately 450 years as a festival where people can enjoy igloos at a small New Year's event, and the Brahma dedicated to Asahi Okayama Shrine. Held annually on February 15 and 16, children serve amazake (sweet sake) and mochi (rice cakes) inside the approximately 80 igloos built in the city, while welcoming guests into the igloos. The candles lit in the igloos create a spectacular atmosphere. A Video Article About the Yokote Snow Festival of Akita Prefecture Video article 5:52 Enjoy the Pure White Snowy Landscape at the Traditional "Yokote Snow Festival" in Yokote, Akita Prefecture! Experience Warm Rice Cakes in a Giant Igloo and a Fantastical Silver World! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Lily0321 Location: Ashino Park (Goshogawara, Aomori Prefecture) Highlights of Ashino Park, a Popular Tourist Attraction in Aomori Prefecture Ashino Park is said to be one of the best places on the Tsugaru Peninsula to enjoy the cherry blossoms. The best time to view the cherry blossoms is usually from late April to early May, when more than 1,500 cherry trees of all sorts of varieties can be seen in full bloom. The cherry blossoms blooming along the lakeside are so beautiful that they overwhelm onlookers. The scenery of Tsugaru Railway's an old-fashioned train 'Run Melos-go, named after a popular children's story, passing through the tunnel of cherry blossoms in full bloom creates a popular photo spot for those looking take pictures of the cherry blossoms. A Video Article About Popular Tourist Attractions in Aomori Prefecture Video article 2:59 After a Harsh Winter, the Beauty of Aomori's Spring, From the Mountains All the Way to the Sea, Shows Its Colors! Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms and Fresh Greenery of Aomori's Popular Sightseeing Destinations! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: こーさ | Kousa Kobayashi Location: Tsutanuma Pond (Towada, Aomori Prefecture) Highlights of Tsutanuma, a Popular Tourist Attraction Tsutanuma is a popular tourist attraction in Towada, Aomori, with its fiery red autumn leaves. On a day when the wind is calm, the reflection of the trees on the surface of the lake is truly breathtaking. To reduce traffic and protect the environment, advance reservations and a "cooperation fee" of 4,000 yen per car (including one driver) plus 2,000 yen per passenger are required to visit Tsutanuma when the autumn leaves are in season (October 20 - October 31, 2022, from 5 AM to 7:30 AM). A Video Article About Autumn Leaves at Tsutanuma in Hakkoda, Aomori Video article 3:13 Autumn Leaves in Hakkoda, Aomori - The Reflection of This Beautiful Red Foliage Is Poetic YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 山川 さおり Location: A white rainbow at Hachimantai (Hachimantai, Iwate Prefecture)） A White Rainbow A rainbow is a phenomenon that appears when sunlight is reflected and refracted by moisture in the air. The conditions for the appearance of a white rainbow are clear skies and fog, but they are rarely caught on camera. If you come across one of these rare white rainbows, be sure to take a photo. A Video Article About Towada Hachimantai National Park in Japan's Tohoku Region Video article 2:46 Superb Seasonal Views and Hot Springs! With Red Autumn Leaves in the Fall and Pure White Snow in the Winter, the Many Different Faces of Akita Prefecture's Towada Hachimantai National Park Make It One of Japan's Most Scenic Places to Visit! YouTube Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that shares the charms of Japan with people all over the world who are interested in Japan. Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS 「COOL JAPAN VIDEOS photo contests are open to everyone! Even a photo taken by chance with your smartphone could win a prize! Here are some of the features of our contests. ・Photos taken not only with SLR cameras and digital cameras, but also with smartphones and other devices can be submitted. ・You can submit as many photos as you like during the contest period. ・Image editing, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Here you can find all of the past photo contest winners in one place. You can also see the prizes for each contest, as well as the locations where the photos were taken and the judges' critiques. Click here to see past photo contest winners Text only Photo Contest Results - COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Winning Photos - Discover the Charms of Japan! Current Photo Contest The following is information about the current photo contest. [Ongoing From September 2022] The 13th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Japan Travel Memories Submission period: September 1, 2022 12:00 AM - October 31, 2022 11:59 PM (Japan time) Prizes: ■Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card (1 Winner) ■Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card (5 Winners) The 13th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Summary of Tohoku in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests We hope you were able to experience the charm of Japan's Tohoku region through these past entries to COOL JAPAN VIDEOS photo contests. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS photo contests are not just about capturing the spectacular scenery of tourist attractions and rare natural phenomena, but also about capturing scenes from everyday life, meaning anyone can win a prize. 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