Official Author

児玉 勇（Yu Kodama）

The Heavy Machinery of Modern Japanese Forestry This video is "cutting with the powerful of heavy machinery（重機の強力なパワーで伐採）" produced by "takao kuboki" In recent years, it is said that the shortage of people is serious in primary industries, such as forestry. Forestry in particular is facing the problem of an aging population and lack of successors. Japanese satoyama (undeveloped woodland near populated area) cannot be grown into a healthy forest unless humans cut down unnecessary/predatory trees. That's where heavy machinery for cutting down trees comes in. The power to grab trees and move them around like pencils is amazing. Enjoy the powerful scenes of Japan's heavy logging machinery. The Power and Performance of Japan's Heavy Machinery! Source :YouTube screenshot The highlights of this video are around 0:54 and 01:28. A scene in which the tip of the heavy machine arm is dexterously manipulated, and a single tree is grabbed and knocked down with a crash. It’s only about 20 seconds long, but quite amazing to see. One tree is felled, creating a cloud of snow. Unless thinning is performed in this way, sunlight will not reach the ground and these "satoyama" will become unhealthy mountains. Forestry is a very important industry, as roughly 70% of Japan is covered in forests. Demand for heavy equipment operators will continue to increase if younger people don't take up the profession. The Amazing Skills of Japan's Heavy Machinery Operators Photo：Heavy Machinery Heavy machinery are dedicated vehicles used in civil engineering and construction. There are cranes, excavators, forklifts, road rollers, bulldozers, aerial platforms, unic (mini crane), digging / rock drilling / boring vehicles, wheel loaders, dump trucks, heavy equipment carriers, and loads more. Working in the snow from the beginning of this video is a heavy machine equipped with a type of arm called a "baguette" Heavy equipment is expensive even for used vehicles, and it is difficult for small and medium sized enterprises to buy them. Because of that, many people use rentals or lease them. The video shows logging in the forest, but small-sized excavators are useful in logging due to slopes and poor scaffolding. How to Get a Heavy Equipment License in Japan? What Vehicles Are Suitable for Logging? Photo：A Harvester Special qualifications (licenses) are required to operate heavy equipment in Japan. Heavy machinery is highly specialized vehicles used only in specific places. Therefore, qualifications according to the purpose are required. Here are some of them. ・Operation of vehicle construction equipment for leveling, transportation, loading and excavation. ・ Operation of vehicle construction equipment for foundation work. ・Operation of vehicle construction machinery (for dismantling). ・Operation of a shovel loader. To operate an excavator, a commonly used vehicle, you need one of the following qualifications: "Vehicle-based construction machine driving skill training" or "Special education on the operation of small vehicle-based construction machinery" Summary of the Video (The Myths of Heavy Machinery Vehicles in Japan) Japan's heavy equipment is used in many places around the world. Many heavy equipment manufacturers, such as Komatsu, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, and IHI Construction Machinery, are different from ordinary automobiles, and, they are successful in the world's leading industries. This video introduces heavy machinery in Japan that cuts down forests in snowy "satoyama." Enjoy the powerful logging scenes and the craftsmanship of heavy equipment operators who can knock down trees brilliantly even on sites with poor scaffolding.

The Takaoka Copper Casting of Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture – A Traditional Japanese Craft This video, titled "手技TEWAZA「高岡銅器」Takaoka Copper Casting," was produced by "Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square." It introduces Takaoka Copper Casting, a traditional craft in Takaoka City, Toyama. Takaoka Copper Casting in Takaoka City, Toyama originates from a factory opened in the Edo period (1603 – 1868 AD) by Maeda Toshinaga in the Kaga Maeda Clan with the seven metal casters from Tamba, Kyoto, said to be the birthplace of metal casting. Most of the Takaoka Copper Casting products are related to Buddhist tools such as vases and a large part of the production process involves the attentive handiwork of artisans. The traditional Japanese craftsmanship is appreciated even outside of Japan. The Takaoka Great Buddha at Daibutsuji Temple (大佛寺, Daibutsu-ji) is said to be one of the most impressive pieces made by the Takaoka Copper Casting artisans. This is a rare video that introduces the production process of Takaoka Copper Casting. Please enjoy watching the craftsmanship of the Takaoka copper casting artisans. Takaoka Copper Casting: One of the Greatest Treasures in Japanese Culture- How It's Done Source :YouTube screenshot Takaoka Copper Casting is essentially produced with a metal casting technique where a piece of metal is melted at high temperature and poured into a mold to form the desired shape. Japanese metal casting techniques are highly recognized worldwide, and the metal casting of Takaoka City, Toyama is especially famous. Now, let's take a look at how Takaoka Copper Casting products are made. 1. Making the original model (0:18) Based on the blueprint, a prototype is created using wood, plaster, clay and resin. This prototype becomes the grand image of the final product. 2. Making the mold (0:29) A fire-resistant material is used for the original model, and a casting is made to pour the copper into. This is said to be the most important step. The mold made from casting sand is an example of exquisite craftsmanship. 3. Refining and melting (0:44) Refining refers to the process of removing impurities and increasing the purity of the metal. The refined metal is melted and liquefied at high temperatures.. The molten copper alloy reaches 1200 degrees Celsius in this process. 4. Casting (1:00) The refined molten copper is poured into the casting. 5. Removing the mold (1:23) The cooled and hardened copper is removed from the casting and the finishing process begins. 6. Polishing (1:48) The product is beautifully polished. 7. Coloring (2:05) After coloring and inlays are added, the work is complete! At 1:31 in the video, one of the Takaoka Copper Casting artisans explains “We hope that our Buddhist statues and monuments will convey what the customer had in mind, and will be loved.” The Art Pieces of Takaoka Copper Casting Gained Worldwide Popularity at the World Expo in Paris Source :YouTube screenshot A number of art pieces such as Buddhist statues and vases made using Takaoka Copper Casting were exhibited at the World Expo in Paris, and the name has come to be known around the world. These reason these artifacts are so beautifully shaped is because they were developed through producing bronze casting products adorned with carvings. In Takaoka City, Toyama, the descendants of the master craftsmen of the past have inherited the traditional crafting techniques and skills and have created many works of art. They continue to do so even today. Summary of Takaoka Copper Casting Source :YouTube screenshot The entire process of Takaoka Copper Casting has been done with the careful handiwork of artisans for more than 400 years. "We want to pass down the 400-year-old technique to the next generation," says one of the Takaoka Copper Casting artisans at 2:26 in the video. To inherit this valuable Japanese culture, Takaoka City has held workshops of Takaoka Copper Casting to train potential artisans. Miyuki-cho in Takaoka City has the Takaoka Copper Casting Museum where you can see and purchase products. Some large bronze statues are valued at millions of yen (tens of thousands of dollars). Takaoka Copper Casting products are also available at online marketplaces such as Rakuten and Amazon, and include ochoko (small sake cups), ornaments, paperweights, and more. The most popular ones are made by Takenaka Bronze Works Co.,Ltd. The company donated a 1/100 scale bronze casting model to Zuiryuji Temple (瑞龍寺, Zuiryuji), a temple designated as a National Treasure, in Takaoka City. The temple is one of the most popular tourist spots in Takaoka City renowned for its spring event of lighting up the temple, where the bones of Oda Nobunaga and his son are buried. Tourists can visit the grave of Maeda Toshinaga, who was deeply involved in the history of Takaoka Copper Castings, by way of a path called Hocchodo, lined with stone lanterns. In recent years, nine companies that are members of the Takaoka Copper Industry Cooperative Society have made original "Takaoka Wind Chimes" and sold them at the Takaoka Regional Industry Center, Takaoka Mikurumayama Museum, and shops where crafts are sold. 【Official website】Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/

Introducing Eelpouts - An Interesting Delicacy in Kanazawa, Ishikawa "Eelpouts: The rare fish loved in Kanazawa| nippon.com," is a 4K video uploaded by "nippon.com." Have you heard of eelpouts before? There probably aren't many people who've heard of this strange fish, but it's actually a specialty of Kanazawa that's attracting attention as an ingredient for beauty supplements. This video will show you how to prepare some delicious eelpouts! The Unsightly Eelpout - A Look at the Strange Fish Photo：Eelpouts Eelpout is written "幻魚" (roughly "Illusion Fish") in Japanese Kanji. This deep-sea fish is a type of sea-bass (belonging to a genus of Zoarcidae) and there are more than 230 types of eelpouts around the world. The reason why it's called "illusion fish" in Japan is likely because of its wiggly, slimy and grotesque body, and it was never eaten or studied. It has been found that it prefers the cold water of the northern hemisphere and usually lies on the seafloor, eating shells, sea urchins, and starfish that are in the sand. It swims very slow and its proper name is "ノロゲンゲ" (norogenge) in Japanese. The best time to catch it in the Hokuriku region is from September to May. How to Prepare Eelpouts Source :YouTube screenshot The most distinctive feature of the eelpout is its long, thin body, slimy surface, and soft texture. This is because it's rich in fine gelatin and collagen. It has quit a plain taste, so it can be used in any kind of cooking, and it is very popular in Kanazawa and Toyama. As you can see from 0:41 in the video, they cost around 400 yen per four fish, which is cheap during the harvest seasons, so it's often eaten as a main dish in Japan's Hokuriku region. Fried, dried, and tempura are also popular ways to prepare it, and these can be seen from 1:17 in the video. The slimy surface disappears when deep-fried giving it a nice and soft texture. Because of its simple taste, it's used as the main ingredients in miso soup and hot pot on a regular basis. Summary of Eelpouts, a Kanagawa Specialty Photo：Miso soup with bamboo shoots Eelpouts are also called "gengyo," "dogi," "mizuuo," and "sugayo" in Japanese. Although grotesque at first glance, it's gaining attention as a main ingredient in beauty supplements due to its high moisture content and moisturizing properties. Eelpout hot pot and eelpout soup are foods that women should pay attention to if they're focusing on beauty because it warms the body from the core and makes the skin look youthful. Be sure to try them when you visit Kanazawa, Ishikawa.

Risshaku-ji Temple in Yamagata Prefecture This video, titled "Risshaku-ji Temple Temple 4K - Risshaku-ji in Yamagata" (宝珠山立石寺 4K - Risshaku-ji in Yamagata), was uploaded by "channel WASABI." It explores Risshaku-ji Temple, a National Site of Scenic Beauty in Yamagata Prefecture, Tohoku, Japan. Risshaku-ji Temple in Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture is an ancient temple opened by a monk in 860 A.D. It is one of the most famous temples in Japan's Tohoku region. It is most famous as the temple that Matsuo Basho made a haiku poem about, in his poetry book "Oku no Hosomichi." The poem goes like this- Deep silence the shrill of cicadas seeps into the rocks The temple suffered damage from fire several times between the Kamakura Period (1185～1333) and Muromachi Period (1336～1573). In the Edo Period (1603～1868), the temple was given a territory of 1,420 koku by the government and rebuilt the temple buildings. The temple currently owns a land of 330,000 tsubo where around 30 various sized buildings are built. It is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Yamagata Prefecture. Built on top of the tall steep stone cliff, Risshaku-ji Temple lays within the beautiful natural landscape of Zao Quasi-National Park. Here you can enjoy the beautiful seasonal views and elegance of nature. Yamagata Prefecture proudly boasts the temple as a National Site of Scenic Beauty in Japan. The video captures the beautiful Risshaku-ji Temple in stunning 4K quality. The sound of the piano adds to the beauty of Risshaku-ji Temple. The "Four Temple Pilgrimage" of Yamagata Prefecture Photo：Spring scenery at Risshaku-ji Temple Risshaku-ji Temple is spiritually associated with Hiraizumi Chuson Temple (平泉中尊寺 Hiraizumi Chusonji), Moutsu Temple (毛越寺 Moutsuji), and Matsushima Zuigan Temple (松島瑞巌寺 Matsushima Zuiganji), and the pilgrimage route to visit the four temples has become a popular tourist activity in Yamagata. There are many spots along the route that are great for taking Instagram pictures as well. Your trip isn't complete until you've collected a shuin stamp from all four temples! Making a trip to all four temples is sure to be an unforgettable experience. The Pilgrimage Route for Risshaku-ji Temple Photo：Yamadera (Yamagata Prefecture) The recommended route to visit Risshaku-ji Templeis shown below. 1. Start of the trail：Start here. The pilgrimage to Risshaku-ji Temple is more like climbing a mountain. (0:48 in the video) ↓ 2. Konpon Chudo Hall (根本中堂 Konponchudo) ↓ 3. Basho Mound (芭蕉塚 Bashozuka) ↓ 4. Treasure House (宝物殿 Takaramonoden) ↓ 5. Mountain Gate (山門 Sanmon) ↓ 6. Cicada Mound (せみ塚 Semizuka) ↓ 7. Nio Gate (仁王門 Niomon) ↓ 8. Inner Sanctuary (奥の院 Okunoin) (1:22 in the video) ↓ 9. Three-storied Pagoda (三重の小塔 Mieno kotou) ↓ 10. Kaizan Hall (開山堂 Kaizando), Nokei Hall (納経堂 Nokeido) (1:31 in the video) ↓ 11. Godai Hall (五大堂 Godaido) The route takes around 1.5 hours to complete, and you have to climb up 1,050 stone steps! From the start of the trail to the peak, you'll only walk up the steps. You won’t need special attire, just normal clothes and shoes are fine. You can complete a pilgrimage and get some light mountain climbing in at the same time! Take your time enjoying the history and culture of Risshaku-ji Temple. Other halls include Shoso Hall (性相院, Shosoin), Kinjo Hall (金乗院, Kinjoin), Chusei Hall (中性院, Chuseiin), and Kazo Hall (華蔵院, Kazoin). You can check the official website to see the map showing the exact locations of each hall. Tourist Attractions and Dining at Risshaku-ji Temple Photo：konjac at Risshaku-ji Temple The most famous dishes at the ancient Risshaku-ji Temple area are wild vegetable dishes and Japanese Soba - buckwheat noodle. The temple is well-known for being a mountain temple surrounded by the steep cliffs and magnificent mountain views. You can taste delicious Japanese dishes using wild vegetables grown on the mountain. Access to Risshaku-ji Temple in Yamagata prefecture Train：30 minutes by bus or taxi from JR Yamagata Station Car：15 minutes from the Yamagata Expressway Air：30 minutes from Yamagata Airport Risshaku-ji Temple is on top of a very steep cliff. There is a free car park for visitors. However, it is very small, so we recommend that you use public transport when possible. Hotels Around Risshaku-ji Temple If you're visiting Risshaku-ji Temple for a pilgrimage or sightseeing, we recommend staying at a hotel near JR Yamagata Station or JR Yamadera Station on the JR Senzan Line. Summary of the Serene Risshaku-ji Temple in Yamagata Prefecture Photo：Jizo statue Risshaku-ji Temple in Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture has been connected with Hie Shrine (日枝神社 Hie Jinja) by Shinbutsu-shugo. It is now completely merged with Risshaku-ji Temple, and In May every year, they have an event called the Sanno Festival. The Harsh climate of Yamagata brings the seasonal beauty of nature- cherry blossoms and plum trees in spring, fresh greenery in summer, beautiful autumnal foliage in fall, and snowy scenery in winter. It's a place where you can enjoy the natural landscape of Japan and majestic views year round. The views from Risshaku-ji Temple are shown at 1:57 in the video. With an elevation difference of approximately 160m, the view from Risshaku-ji Temple on top of the steep cliffs is something special. The video also shows the solemn atmosphere of the mountain temple and the beautiful changes that each season brings. Be sure to check it out if you haven't yet! ◆Risshaku-ji Temple◆ 【Address】4456-1 Yamadera, Yamagata, 999-3301 【Access】30 minutes from Yamagata by car 【Parking】Available. 10 free spaces 【Telephone No.】023-695-2843 【Official website】Risshaku-ji Temple https://www.rissyakuji.jp/

The Shikoku Ehime Girls' Journey Is Full of Highlights! This video is "A Healing journey in Ehime - A Paradise of Love and Princesses - (Ehime Prefecture Tourism PR Video)"（いやされて愛媛旅～愛と姫の楽園～（愛媛県観光PR動画）） created by "EhimePref". One of Japan's leading tourist destinations, Ehime Prefecture, in the Shikoku region, is divided into three areas: Toyo, Chuyo and Nanyo. Toyo is one of the most popular tourist spots, with Imabari City and Saijo City, which are known for its Imabari Towels. The Nishi Seto Expressway has nine islands connecting Ehime and Hiroshima, with a total length of about 70 km, and we recommend the canyoning route for cyclists. The Chuyo area is the center of Ehime! Dogo Onsen, a World Heritage Site, is located in Matsuyama City, where the prefectural capital is located. There are many tourist spots related to Japanese history and culture there. The area around Dogo Onsen Station can be used for rickshaw strolls and more, which provides an authentic Japanese atmosphere! The Nanyo area is rich in nature, including the sea, rivers, and forests, as well as Ozu City, known as the little Kyoto of Iyo, and Uchiko, one of Nanyo's most famous scenic spots, where you can see nostalgic Japanese scenery that will take you back in time. This video introduces some of the highlights of Ehime, Shikoku's Instagram-worthy scenery and sightseeing spots. Although it is a short video, lasting only about 2 minutes, it is chock full of the charm of Ehime Prefecture, so please enjoy it. The Hashtags of Ehime! Photo：Yokaichigokoku Let's take a look at some scenic spots in Ehime, one of Japan's leading tourist destinations. Be sure to follow along with the video! The first place we visit is the “Uchikoza Playhouse (0:42),” which was founded in 1916 (Taisho 5) to celebrate the throne of the Emperor Taisho. Next, enjoy the "Uchiko Town Walk (0:48)," "Town Guide (0:52)," and "Kamihagatei (an Important Cultural Property) (0:57)." You can also enjoy cycling at Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge (1:08) and on the Nishi Seto Expressway (1:12)! After sunset, take a stroll along the "Nikitatsu Road (1:22)" or at "Dogo Onsen Station (1:26)" Pass the "Botchan Train (1:31)" and check in to "Dogo Onsen" (1:37) for the night." Also important, are: "Matsuyama Castle (1:45)", "Sliding Valley Canyon (1:45-)", "Shikoku Karst (1:45-)", "Roadside Station Besshi (1:45)" and "Budokan." There are plenty of popular sightseeing spots in Ehime, such as Garyu Sanso, Mimidotake, and Nishiyama Koryuji. There's plenty of Instagrammable spots to go around! Where will tomorrow take us? Recommended Local Cuisine in Ehime Photo：Sea bream Speaking of Ehime in Shikoku, citrus fruits indigenous to Japan, such as mandarin oranges and Iyokan oranges, are actively grown here! Japanese food such as takikomi taimeshi (sea bream rice) is also a local delicacy. You can see the sea bream from 0:59 in the video. In addition, there are also the "Kiri no Mori Daifuku," which makes a great souvenir, and the "Deai Imotaki," a seasonal delicacy. Events and Outdoor Activities to Experience the Past and Present of Ehime Photo：Dogo Onsen If you're sightseeing in Ehime, we recommend staying in the Chuyo area. From here, access to both the Nanyo and Toyo districts is great! Dogo Onsen, also known as Japan's oldest onsen inn, is a simple alkaline spring known as a beauty hot spring. There are many hot spring lodges and tourist hotels in the vicinity, where you can relax and unwind after a long day of travel. In addition, various events are held in every season, and outdoor activities such as the Niihama Taiko Festival, "Sea Walker" where you can enjoy underwater walks, mountain climbing Ishizuchi, and tide experience, are all very popular. A Paradise of Love and Princesses! Summary of Ehime Ehime Prefecture is a prefecture on the east side of the Shikoku region facing the Seto Inland Sea. Dogo Onsen, a World Heritage site known for its beauty hot springs, and the Seto Inland Sea's colorful climate and charming nature, make for one of Japan's most popular tourist destinations. The sea is beautiful and the locals are very kind! Many instagrammable spots are also introduced in the video. Watch this woman's travels in Ehime, Shikoku, a town of smiles, oranges, hot springs and natural scenery, and find your favorite Insta-worthy spots! 【Official Website】Ehime Prefectural Government Homepage https://www.pref.ehime.jp/index-e.html 【Official Website】 Visit Ehime - Ehime Tourism Information https://www.visitehimejapan.com/en?_ga=2.249638208.794270962.1587710022-1232782829.1587710022

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

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

What is Roadside Station Nanbu? This video introduces the collaboration between the anime "Yuru Camp" and the stage of "Heya Camp". And it is an introduction of "Roadside station Nanbu", (called "Roadside Station Nanbu" in Japanese), which is said to be a sacred place among fans. The theme of Roadside Station Nanbu is a “Food Theme Park!” Here, you enjoy a variety of delicious local foods at various commercial facilities. There is also a dog run in the park, and those who come by car can play with their pets. Traffic access to Roadside Station Nanbu is about 7 minutes by bus from JR Minobu Line Utsubuna Station, which can be seen from 0:07 in the video. Because it is a facility built in the wilderness you can enjoy hiking as well. Let's take a look at some attractions around "Roadside Station Nanbu". Introducing gourmet locations at "Roadside Station Nanbu"! Source :YouTube screenshot The best part of Roadside Station Nanbu is the local gourmet restaurants. The delicious tuna bowl that appears at 0:24 in the video, Toro Torotoro Don, is a popular menu item. As you can see in the video, you can enjoy "special soy sauce" and "Umagoma sauce". At the end, they show Ochazuke with "Dense Yaizu Tuna Dashi". Other recommended items include Nanbu Ichshou Soba from 0:32, OInari Chan, a southern farm plate that can only be tasted at Roadside Station Nanbu, and Koshu Wagyu Toro Suki, which you can see at 0:34. As you can see from 0:39, the after-meal desserts are also great! You can enjoy three kinds of southern sweet teas, a popular tapioca drink, soft serve ice cream, parfaits, etc., all unique to the famous southern tea production area! Roadside Station Nanbu is full of popular menus listed on the food review website "Tabelog." Popular souvenirs include vegetables grown by local farmers and southern tea soba. What is Roadside Station Nanbu? Source :YouTube screenshot Roadside Stations can be seen in 1,173 places nationwide, but why did they come to be called "Roadside Stations"? The Roadside Stations are said to be a service area (SA) facility equipped with a stand, a cafeteria, and a toilet as a rest area on the highway. Each SA has a standard menu and a popular menu item, and some places with sleeping areas and accommodation facilities have appeared to differentiate themselves. It is traced to a railway station and is called a "Roadside Station" based on how drivers stop mid-way through their travels and take a break at it. It is built on a general road to make it easier to stop at and is part of the town revitalization policy. In recent years, the "Muranoeki (village station)" in Izu has also become a hot topic. The operation of this roadside station is generally performed by the road manager of each local government. There are disaster prevention building facilities, and some facilities are also used as emergency evacuation sites and relay points for relief supplies. Roadside Station Nanbu's Facilities and Attractions Source :YouTube screenshot There Are Still Many Attractions at Roadside Station Nanbu! In September 2019, the statue of the equestrian Saburo Nanbu Mitsuyuki was unveiled. There is also a children's space for families and the Nanbu Exhibition Room which can be seen from 0:56. Roadside Station Nanbu is located in Koma-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture. It is an area with lots of superb greenery. Around Roadside Station Nanbu, there is Uchifuna Temple, a facility where you can enjoy fishing and barbecuing (shown in the video from 1:27), and the hot spring Nanbu-no-yu that you can see from 1:49. You can also enjoy the southern tea plantations overflowing with greenery at 1:01. Roadside Station Nanbu Summary Source :YouTube screenshot A lot of green, a Lot of nature, and a LOT of local gourmet! What'd you think of Roadside Station Nanbu? If you're interested, please come and visit Roadside Station Nanbu a popular anime fan destination where you can enjoy gourmet food, history and nature. ◆ Roadside Station Nanbu Introduction of facility outline ◆ 【Address】3034-1 Nakano, Nanbu-cho, Minamikoma-gun, Yamanashi 409-2211 【Access】 About 60 minutes by car from Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture on the Chubu Crossing Expressway and National Route 52. About 7 minutes by bus from JR Minobu Line Utsubuna Station 【Opening hours】 9: 00-17: 00 【Closures】 None 【Parking】 108 spaces (40 vehicles available for 24 hours) 【Phone number】 0556-64-8552 【Official Website】Food theme park "Roadside Station Nanbu http://michinoeki-nanbu.com/ 【Tripadvisor】Roadside Station Nanbu https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121180-d15051724-Reviews-Michi_no_Eki_Nambu-Nanbu_cho_Minamikoma_gun_Yamanashi_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chu.html

What is Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street? This time, we introduce the popular Togoshi Ginza shopping district, that has been featured in a number of magazines and t.v. programs, through a video called "Walking around Togoshi Ginza-Tokyo - Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street-4K Ultra HD" (Walking around Togoshi Ginza - Tokyo - 戸越銀座商店街 - 4K Ultra HD). This video will have you feeling as if you're actually taking a stroll through the popular shopping district located in Toyomachi, Shinagawa. This camera is fixed from the cameraman's point of view, making it an almost virtual reality experience. The History of the Togoshi Ginza Shopping District Photo：Togoshi Ginza Station The name Togoshi Ginza comes from Togoshi Ginza Station on the Tokyu Ikegami Line. Togoshi Ginza street is an old shopping district that grew around the stores concentrated around Osaki in Shinagawa, due to the opening of the Tokyu Ikegami Line in 1927. Today, it goes by the name Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street, and is made up of three shopping street associations: Togoshi Ginza Shoeikai Shopping Street, Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street, and Togoshi Ginza Roku Shopping Street. There are about 400 shops. It's also famous as Japan's longest shopping street with a total length of 1.3 kilometers. Nowadays, there are many shopping streets in Japan called "〇〇Ginza" (pronounced Maru Maru Ginza), but the one on Togoshi-Ginza shopping street was actually the first in Japan. It's located next to Togoshi Ginza Station on the Tokyu Ikegami Line, but there's also the JR Yamanote Line's Gotanda Station within walking distance, so it' s easy to get around. You can see the Tokyu-Ikegami Line railroad crossing at 10:32 in the video. The restaurant is crowded with businessmen and housewives at lunchtime on weekdays. Togoshi Ginza Station- More History Photo：Tokyo downtown from above Besides the origin of Togoshi Ginza's name, there's also the origin of the shopping district itself. This actually has to do with the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. The unprecedented catastrophe caused devastating damage in a large area from downtown Tokyo to Hiratsuka, Kanagawa Prefecture. At that time, the Shinagawa area was an industrial zone where many people gathered, but after the Great Kanto Earthquake, people who had lost their homes gathered here to start businesses a resurrect the local economy, thus forming the shopping district. The "Ginza" part of "Togoshi Ginza" is said to have originated around the time that shops began to gather in the Togoshi area, when locals gathered up the brick debris in Ginza and used it to improve the drainage of the once poorly drained streets of Togoshi. Things to Do on Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street Source :YouTube screenshot The best way to enjoy the Togoshi Ginza shopping street is by munching on snacks as you window shop. In the Togoshi Ginza shopping district, there's bakeries, Togoshi Ginza croquette, ramen, dumplings, fried chicken, popular cafe sweets, taiyaki, pork rice bowl, pork wrapped rice ball skewers, and more. For souvenirs, there's a ton of local gourmet foods such as Togoshi Ginza brand confections, donuts, and the sweets of Goto Kamaboko shown at 1:35 in the video. There are also convenience stores, pharmacies, clothing stores, cafes and supermarkets. On holidays, get a map in one hand and food in the other and browse the streets of Togoshi Ginza while munching on some delicious food. We pretty much recommend anything in Togoshi Ginza, as nearly every shop has good reviews. Summary of the Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street Photo：Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street The Togoshi Ginza shopping street, chosen as one of the top shopping districts in Japan, also has its own homepage as well! The mascot character Ginjiro Togoshi gives a detailed introduction of the shopping district, including opening hours of shops, nearby hotels, parking lots, tour information, and more. The Togoshi-Ginza shopping district has also introduced a project to eliminate the need for electrical poles, with the aim of becoming a clean, fun, popular shopping arcade that will continue to develop into the future. 【Official Website】Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street Official Site https://www.togoshiginza.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street Official Site https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066854-d6536297-Reviews-Togoshiginza_Shopping_Street-Shinagawa_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

A Look at Kyoto and Its History This video, titled “The Night Scene of Kyoto (SONY a7S2 4K Pilotfly H2 Gimbal)” (京都の夜動画 - The Night Scene of Kyoto (SONY a7S2 4K Pilotfly H2 ジンバル)), was released by “video channel.” It showcases the scenery of Kyoto at night in 4K ultra-HD resolution. What does Kyoto, one of Japan's most popular tourist destinations, look like at night? Kyoto originally prospered as the capital of Japan from the Heian Period (794-1185 A.D.), with many shrines and temples, such as Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizudera Temple, and Kodaiji Temple, and Mt. Inari was a symbol of mountain worship. Kyoto is a city for adults where you can experience the flow of time differently from other big cities. Gion – A Beautiful Nightscape in Kyoto Photo：Gion, Kyoto There are many tourist attractions in Kyoto, but Gion is the place to be to see Kyoto at night. Gion is the name of the area in front of Yasaka Shrine, and it has developed into a historic red-light district. It is also famous as a nightlife district for adults, where tourists and business tycoons from Kyoto and abroad come to have fun at night. You can see geiko walking around the area at 1:14 in the video. Kyoto's Gion area alone is full of popular tourist attractions, but the slope that appears throughout the video is Nineizaka, the approach to Kiyomizudera Temple. There is a dangerous legend that if you fall on Nineizaka, you'll die within two years, so please be very careful when sightseeing! Another famous approach to Kiyomizudera Temple is Sanneizaka. The slope is lined with many stores, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great spot for eating, dates, and even going for a drive. Hanamikoji Street in Southern Gion, Kyoto Photo：Gion's Hanamikoji Street, Kyoto The main nighttime sightseeing spot in the Gion area where you're most likely to see geiko and maiko is the 1km-long Hanamikoji Street, located on the south side of Gion. Hanamikoji Street stretches from Sanjo Street to Kenninji Temple, centering on Shijo Street, which is bordered by Yasaka Shrine's Nishiromon Gate. Also along this street is the site of the annual "Miyako Odori," a dance festival where maiko and geiko compete in artistic competitions, and Tsudaro, a long-established restaurant with a reputation for its Kyoto-style cuisine. Fushimi Inari Shrine's Omokaruishi (Heavy or light stone): Will Your Wish Come True? Photo：The thousand torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto A tourist spot in Kyoto that is rapidly gaining popularity among foreigners is Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its shrine approach lined with vermilion torii gates. At the inner shrine, there is a stone called "Omokaruishi," and legend has it that if you lift it and it feels lighter than you expected, your wish will come true, but if it feels heavier than you expected, your wish is not yet ready to be fulfilled. Fushimi Inari is the head shrine of all the Inari shrines in Japan, and the shrine is dedicated to foxes as opposed to the usual komainu (guardian dogs). Shinbashi Street - The Best Place To Enjoy the Old-Fashioned District of Gion Photo：Gion's Shinbashi Street, Kyoto Shinbashi Street (Shinbashi-dori) is an area where old fashioned streets and lanterns still remain. This is the area that retains the strongest traces of Gion, which flourished as a red-light district during the Edo Period (1603-1868 A.D.), and is known as a good place for night sightseeing in Kyoto. This street is also known as a famous location for viewing cherry blossoms and attracts many tourists in the spring. Nothing can beat taking a midnight stroll through Kyoto under the illuminated cherry blossoms during the cherry blossom season. Summary of Kyoto’s Popular Sightseeing Locations Photo：Yasaka-no-To and Kyoto Tower, Kyoto In addition to the Gion area, there are many other tourist attractions in Kyoto. There's the famous Yasaka-no-To, a three-storied pagoda which is the symbol of Kyoto, Kyoto Tower, which offers a panoramic view of Kyoto from its observation deck, and Shogunzuka's Seiryuden Hall, a new landmark built in 2014 at the top of Higashiyama. One of the most popular power spots for finding love, especially among women, is "Ryu no Atago" (龍の愛宕池, Dragon Pond) located at Arashiyama Station off the Keifuku Dentetsu Arashiyama Line. To get here, you must pass through Kimono Forest, where 600 Kyo Yuzen pillars line the street. Kyoto is a beautiful tourist destination, and in order to protect the scenery of the city, there are rules and regulations that prohibit littering, eating, drinking, and smoking outside of designated areas, so please be sure to follow these rules and enjoy your time sightseeing in Kyoto at night! 【Tripadvisor】Kyoto’s Gion District https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d321451-Reviews-Gion-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html