Kinwashi Tour Japan Thread

• kinwashi

  6 Oct 11, 20:17

  Lavender

  Furano [Hokkaido]
  Lavender is from a group of herbs that are native to the Mediterranean littoral. It finds it difficult to grow in areas of high temperature and high humidity, but the climate of Furano allows a number of lavender fields to spread in the area, making it the symbol of Furano. Both public and private lavender fields extend along Route 237 from Kamifurano-cho to Furano City, and the whole hillside turns into a mass of violet in the high season from mid- to late July. The Lavender Garden at Hokuseiyama, managed by the town of Nakafurano, is a skiing area in winter. By taking a lift (to be charged) up to the top of the hill, you can enjoy the magnificent landscape spanning from the Furano Basin to the Tokachidake Mountains.
  
  Flowering season: Mid- to late July
  Address: Kamifurano-cho / Nakafurano-cho, Furano, Hokkaido 
  Directions: A 10 min walk from Nakafurano Station (Furano Line).
  
  

  Peach tree

  Fruit Line [Fukushima]
  Fukushima is one of Japan's major fruit production centers, where various kinds of fruits are produced all over the prefecture. In late April, the Fukushima Basin becomes full of peach blossoms. In particular, the area to the west of Fukushima City, along the Kaminagura-Iizaka-Date Line (prefectural road) connecting Routes 13 and 15, is called the "Fruit Line," offering the beautiful scenery of the Azuma-Adatara Mountain Range with the remaining snow. There are a number of tourist orchards and direct sales stores along the road, which attract many tourists purchasing fruits in the summer and fall.
  
  Flowering season: Late April to early May
  Address: Gorouchi-machi, Fukushima
  Directions: 20 min by car from JR Fukushima Station.
  
  

  Azaleas

  Nasu-kogen Highlands [Tochigi]
  The Yawatasaki-kogen Highlands spread on the hillside of the Nasu-kogen Highlands at around 1,100 meters above sea level, with azaleas growing in colonies in an area of 13 hectares. The promenades are well arranged throughout the colonies, to make you enjoy the enriching experience of strolling through the tunnels of azaleas. While walking through the red flowers of 100,000 azalea bushes, it is not uncommon to encounter wild animals. Beyond the flowers, you can also view the expanse of the Kanto Plain as well as Chausu-dake, the highest peak of Mt. Nasu-dake.
  
  Flowering season: Mid-May to early June
  Address: Yumoto, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi
  Directions: 45 min ride from JR Kuroiso Station (Utsunomiya Line) to Odan by Toya Bus for Nasu-sanroku. It is a 15 min walk from the bus stop.
  
  

  Iris

  Mizumoto-koen Park [Tokyo]
  Mizumoto-koen Park is a natural garden located in the water area of "Koaidame," the reservoir which prevents flooding by the Tone-gawa River. The park (with an area of 820,000 m2) is the largest in Katsushika-ku, and displays a wide range of flowers of the four seasons for your enjoyment. In June, about 200,000 irises of 80 different varieties bloom in the southern part of the park, making the field of irises the largest in Tokyo. Visitors can closely watch the irises while standing on the wooden paths going through the fields. The Iris Festival is held every June.
  
  Flowering season: Early to late June
  Address: Katsushika-ku, Tokyo
  Directions: 10 min ride by bus from JR Kanamachi Station to Mizumoto-koen. It is a 7 min walk from the bus stop.
  
  

  Rape blossoms & Poppy

  Mother Farm, Minami-Boso [Chiba]
  Mother Farm is located on Mt. Kano-zan and overlooks the mountains of the Boso-hanto Peninsula as well as Tokyo Bay. While still being in the suburban area, you can experience the wonder of a resplendent nature in this tourist farm. Rape blossoms found on the large slope of the mountain are now regarded as a seasonal feature of the farm, while about three million flowers bloom all over the area giving the full fragrance of spring. 
  Minami-Boso is the southernmost part of Chiba, where spring comes a little earlier than in other parts of the prefecture. There is a driving route called the "Boso Flower Line" which stretches for about 17 km from Suzaki of Tateyama to Nojimazaki of Shirahama. Theme parks of flowers are located along this road, and various kinds of flowers, such as rape blossoms, poppies, and narcissi, bloom fully from mid-December to late March.
  
  Flowering season: Mid-February to late April (rape blossoms)
  Address: 940-3 Takura, Futtsu, Chiba (Mother Farm)
  Directions: 25 min ride by bus from JR Sanukimachi Station (Mother Farm).
  Admission: 1,500 yen for adults (Mother Farm)
  Closed: January 11-14, weekdays of December 13-17 (Mother Farm) 
  
  

  Hydrangea

  Meigetsu-in Temple [Kanagawa]
  Meigetsu-in Temple, so called the temple of hydrangeas, is situated in Kita-Kamakura. About 2,000 hydrangeas are planted in the precincts, to make the place a very popular scenic spot in the rainy season of June. In 1951, the chief priest planted the bushes of beautifully-colored hydrangea as the fences of the temple, and this is how the beautiful spot was originally created. Many of the flowers are species from ancient Japan, named Himeajisai, the princess of hydrangea because of its elegance. There also other kinds of hydrangea which give an impressive blue color to the approach to the temple. 
  
  Flowering season: Mid- to late June
  Address: Yamanouchi, Kamakura, Kanagawa
  Directions: A 10 min walk from JR Kita-Kamakura Station.
  Admission: 300 yen(500 yen in June)
  Open hours: 09:00-16:00(08:30-17:00 in June)
  
  

  Lespedeza

  Nashinoki-jinja Shrine [Kyoto]
  Nashinoki-jinja, which stands on the east side of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden and faces Teramachi-dori Street, is a shrine that worships Sanetsumu and Sanetomi, the father and son of the Sanetomi family who greatly contributed to the Meiji Restoration. It is called "Hagi-no-miya," the shrine of lespedeza, with red and white lespedeza flowers blooming in the fall on the narrow 500 meter long approach which goes through the precincts from north to south. The Lespedeza Festival is held on the third Sunday of September each year for performances of Kyogen (traditional comic) and Japanese traditional dance dedicated to the God, attracting a large number of visitors each year.
  
  Flowering season: Mid-September
  Address: 680 Somedono-cho, Teramachi-dori Hirokoji-agaru, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto
  Directions: Take a city bus from JR Kyoto Station to Furitsu-Idai-Byoin-mae. It is a 5 min walk from the bus stop.
  
  

  Peony

  Hase-dera Temple [Nara]
  Being sacred ground worshipped by devotees of Kan-non for many years, Hase-dera Temple is as popular as "Hase-dera of Peonies," and is well-known as the best scenic spot of peonies in Japan. The first peony was dedicated by Empress Bato of the Tang Dynasty (China), and today, about 7,000 bushes of 150 different varieties are planted in the gardens of wonderful colors such as red, white, pink and purple. The view from the passageway is marvelous, as its nickname implies. The temple is also known for its winter peonies, whose blooming period is artificially delayed by special treatment in spring and by straw wrapping against the frost. You can enjoy not only the gorgeous atmosphere of spring, but also the special flavors that these winter flowers can offer. 
  
  Flower season: Late April to early May / Early to late December (winter peony) 
  Address: Hase, Sakurai, Nara
  Directions: A 15 min walk from Hasedera Station (Kintetsu Line).
  Admission:500yen
  Open hours:8:30-17:00(April to September) 9:00-16:30(October to March)

  Camellia

  Cape Ashizuri [Kochi]
  Cape Ashizuri, situated at the southernmost part of Shikoku, is a representative scenic spot of Kochi. The quay was created by the granite ground being repeatedly raised and sunk over many years. Its two observation platforms provide a 270° panoramic view, from which you can see the curve of the earth and the continuous waves of the Kuroshio Current. In this area, sturdy camellia trees have been used for wind-protection. When winter comes, 60,000 camellias make romantic arcades of red flowers along the beautiful promenade connecting several sightseeing spots of the cape from "Tengu-no-hana" to the lighthouse.
  
  Flowering season: December to April
  Address: Tosashimizu, Kochi
  Directions: 90 min ride by bus from Nakamura Station (Tosa Kuroshio Railway) to Ashizuri-misaki. It is a 10 min walk from the bus stop. 
  

  Rape blossoms, Iceland poppy & Cosmos

  Ikoma-kogen Highlands [Miyazaki]
  The Ikoma-kogen Highlands, situated on the gentle slopes of Kirishima at an elevation of 540 meters, provide a wonderful view overlooking the whole city. On its vast flower fields of 12 hectares, with the backdrop of the Kirishima Mountain Chain, 350,000 rape blossoms bloom in the spring, 250,000 Iceland poppies in early summer, and one million cosmos of 17 varieties in autumn. Many tourists are attracted to this enchanting place every year.
  
  Flowering season: Rape blossoms / Mid-March to mid-April, Iceland poppy / Mid-April to late May, Cosmos / Late September to mid-October
  Address: 8565 Minaminishikata, Kobayashi, Miyazaki
  Directions: 20 min ride by car from JR Kobayashi Station.
  Admission: 400 yen
  
  
  

  Tulip

  Tonami Tulip Park [Toyama]
  One million tulips of 450 different varieties, of varied colors and shapes, beautifully bloom in Tonami Tulip Park to entertain the visitors. Both inside and outside of the park, there are facilities such as Japan's largest five-linking water wheel, a Dutch wind wheel, and the Tonami Tulip Gallery for visitors to learn about the history of tulips.
  
  Flowering season: Tulip Fair from late April to early May
  Address: Tonami, Toyama
  Directions: 50 min ride by bus from Toyama Airport
  Admission: 1,000 yen
  
  

  Huis Ten Bosch [Nagasaki]
  A theme park with a distinctly Dutch atmosphere, in spring Huis Ten Bosch is full of tulips, the national flower of the Netherlands, which beautifully bloom in the Bastion Area. The view with the backdrop of wind wheels make you feel as if you are really in the country of tulips, the Netherlands.
  
  Flowering season: Early April
  Address: Sasebo, Nagasaki
  Directions: 1h 40min ride by Huis Ten Bosch Express from JR Hakata Station to Huis Ten Bosch Station. It is a 5 min walk from the station.
  Admission: 2,500 yen for adults (for standard tickets. 3,000 yen for high seasons.Other kinds of tickets such as a "Passport" are also available.)
  

• kinwashi

  6 Oct 11, 20:19

  Matsumae-koen Park [Hokkai-do]

  Hokkaido is where plum and cherry trees blossom at the same time. The earliest blooms of cherry trees in Hokkaido are to be found at Matsumae-koen Park. About 10,000 cherry trees, of 250 different varieties, are planted in the park; many of them are double-flowered cherry trees (yae-zakura), a variety that blooms over a long period for your enjoyment. The park also has a number of special cherry trees, such as Kechimyaku-zakura or Amayadori, which are famous for their legend or antiquity. Matsumae-jo Castle, the last Japanese castle to be built in the Edo Period (1603-1867) , is also found in the park along with a museum. The castle town of Matsumae still retains vestiges of the Edo Period.
  
  Flowering season: Late April to late May
  Address: Aza Matsushiro, Matsumae-cho, Matsumae-gun, Hokkaido
  Directions: 1h30min ride from JR Kikonai Station to Matsushiro by bus for Matsumae. It is a 7 min walk from the bus stop.
  
  

  Hirosaki-koen Park [Aomori]

  Hirosaki-koen is one of the best spots for viewing cherry trees in the Tohoku area. In this park, there is a castle with turrets and gates as a visual reminder of bygone days, which was constructed by the Tsugaru family who once ruled the whole Tsugaru area. The park is about 49.2 hectares wide, and has about 2,600 trees of 50 different varieties, mainly Somei-yoshino. The records indicate that 25 cherry trees were planted in "Nishi-no-Kuruwa" in 1715, and among these trees, Kanzan and Kasumi-zakura still bloom now in the spring. The 120 year-old Somei-yoshino is also very popular, and is said to be the oldest in Japan, planted at the beginning of the Meiji Era.
  
  Flowering season: Late April to late May
  Address: Shirogane-machi, Hirosaki, Aomori
  Directions: 15 min ride by Konan Bus from JR Hirosaki Station to Shiyakusho-mae-koen-iriguchi. It is a 1 min walk from the bus stop.
  
  

  Kakunodate [Akita]

  Kakunodate is located almost at the center of Akita. The town is called "Small Kyoto in Michinoku," which means a town with an atmosphere like Kyoto on the Pacific side of the Tohoku area. The city still retains traces of its appearance of about 320 years ago, with stands of old trees and dignified samurai residences. Incredibly, the weeping cherry trees (shidare-zakura) planted at that time still bloom today. The 152 trees are classed amongst the nation's natural monuments, and show a beautiful contrast against the black walls of the samurai residences. The two kilometer long tunnel of cherry trees, along the bank of the Hinokinai-gawa River running though the center of the town, is also listed nationally for its scenic beauty.
  
  Flowering season: Late April to late May
  Address: Kakunodate-machi, Senboku-gun, Akita
  Directions: Exit at JR Kakunodate Station (Akita Shinkansen Line).
  
  

  Ueno-Onshi-koen Park, Shinjuku Gyoen Park [Tokyo]

  Ueno-Onshi-koen Park is the first designated park in Japan. The park is home to the National Museum of Western Art, as well as the Tokyo National Museum and Ueno Zoological Gardens, which always attract many visitors. The rows of cherry trees, Somei-yoshino and mountain cherry trees (yama-zakura), bloom magnificently in spring, making the park very popular for holding parties under a canopy of beautiful flowers.
  Shinjuku Gyoen Garden is the location of the samurai residence of the Naito family. The garden was later designated as an Imperial garden, and then as a national garden in 1949. It has been famous for its cherry trees since the Meiji Era (1868-1912) , and today the collection and study of cherry trees is carried out there.
  
  Flowering season: Late March to late April
  

  Ueno-Onshi-koen Park
  
  Address: Taito-ku, Tokyo
  Directions: A 5 min walk from JR Ueno Station (Yamanote Line). 
  Admission: Free
  Closed: Open throughout the year
  
  

  Shinjuku Gyoen Park
  
  Address: Naito-machi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
  Directions: A 10 min walk from JR Shinjuku Station (Yamanote Line), or exit at Shinjuku-gyoen-mae Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line).
  Admission: 200 yen for adults
  Closed: Mondays (if the Monday is a national holiday, it is closed on the following day), New Year's holidays (Dec. 29-Jan. 3)
  
  

  Takato-Joshi-koen Park [Nagano]

  The cherry tree, Takato-kohigan-zakura, is admired as the most beautiful in the whole of Japan because of its beauty and height. In the park, there are over 1,500 Takato-kohigan-zakura trees, including those over 100 years old. These cherry trees, a hybrid of Edo-higan-zakura and Mame-zakura, are tall trees with small, deep pink flowers that are found only in Takato. The forest of cherry trees in full bloom harmonizes beautifully with the snowscape of the Chuo Alps, and is designated a natural treasure by Nagano Prefecture.
  
  Flowering season: Mid- to late April
  Address: Takato-machi, Kami-Ina-gun, Nagano
  Direction: 25 min ride by bus from JR Ina-shi Station to Takato. It is a 15 min walk from the bus stop.
  Admission: 500 yen (charged only during the cherry-blossom season) 
  
  

  Inuyama-jo Castle [Aichi]

  Inuyama-jo Castle stands on the hillside above the plain, on the south bank of the Kiso-gawa River. In spring, cherry trees bloom around the castle, and stretch along the Kiso-gawa River to Inuyama-bashi Bridge. The Inuyama Festival is held on the first Saturday and Sunday of April every year near Haritsuna-jinja Shrine which is situated at the entrance to the castle. Thirteen floats, three stories high, parade with wind-up dolls dancing to the sound of flutes and drums. They parade all through Honmachi-dori Street, with a backdrop of full-blooming cherry trees; it is a gorgeous sight, well worth seeing.
  
  Flowering season: Late March to early April
  Address: 65-2 Inuyama-kita-koken, Inuyama, Aichi
  Directions: A 15 min walk from Inuyama Station (Meitetsu Line). 
  Admission: 500 yen for adults

• kinwashi

  6 Oct 11, 20:22

  
  

  Taraba-gani
  Snow crab is at the peak of its season in midwinter. The best crabs come from the Japan Sea and from the waters to the north of Hokkaido.
  
  Fugu
  Winter is also the peak season for fugu - blowfish - the best variety of which is the tora ("tiger") fugu. It also contains the deadliest toxins, which is why chefs have to obtain special licenses before they are allowed to serve it.
  
  Oden
  There is something very comforting about sitting around the slowly simmering oden pot, nibbling on long-cooked daikon, kamaboko or atsu-age (deep-fried tofu). Many people consider it the perfect accompaniment to sake.
  
  Kiritanpo
  Kiritanpo is a specialty of Akita Prefecture, where they know all about cold weather. It's a hearty nabe casserole made with the local hinai-jidori chickens, plenty of vegetables, and special rice dumplings that are grilled over charcoal.
  
  Chanko nabe
  A bubbling stew pot of seafood, meat, tofu and vegetables is the favorite food of sumo wrestlers. If this doesn't keep you warm in winter, nothing will!
  
  But now, after all that food, you'll be wanting some exercise....Read on!

     

• kinwashi

  6 Oct 11, 20:23

  Hokkaido

  Jozankei-onsen Hot Spring
  Jozankei-onsen is a hot spring village found in a green valley, located in Shikotsu-Toya National Park. The Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is nearby, as well as a number of sightseeing spots such as Hoheikyo Dam and Jozankei Dam. Jozan-gensen-koen Park is located in the center of town. There, you can enjoy forest bathing and a stroll on the promenade along the Toyohira-gawa River, which has hot water springing from its bottom, to the suspension bridge of Futami-koen Park and Kappa-fuchi Abyss known for the story of a legendary creature, kappa. Its Na-Cl Spring, which contains clear and colorless water of a mild salty taste, is one of the most popular qualities of any of the hot springs in Japan.
  
  Address: Jozankei-onsen, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
  Directions: 1h10min ride by Jotetsu Bus (Jozankei Line) from JR Sapporo Station to Jozankei. 
  
  

  Noboribetsu-onsen Hot Spring
  Noboribetsu-onsen attracts people by its various springs incorporating nine different qualities, including the sulfur spring (the most popular one among all) as well as a ferruginous spring and an alum spring which makes the skin beautiful. This much variety is hard to find in hot springs anywhere else in the world. The water volume of the natural discharge is 10,000 t per day, while the water temperature ranges between 45°C and 90°C. Jigoku-dani Valley, designated as one of Hokkaido's heritage sites, is a few minutes' walk from the hot spring area. There, you can experience the dynamics of jigoku, or "Hell," named as such for its strong smell of sulfur while hot water, vapors and volcanic gas escape from the crater, formed approximately ten thousand years ago.
  
  Address: Noboribetsu-onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido Directions: 13 min ride by bus for Noboribetsu-onsen from JR Noboribetsu Station (Muroran Line) to the final bus stop, Noboribetsu-onsen.
  
  

  Iwate

  Hanamaki-onsen Hot Spring
  Hanamaki-onsen, representing Iwate Prefecture, is the generic name for several hot springs including Dai-onsen, Hanamaki-onsen, Shidotaira-onsen (along the Toyosawa-gawa River) and Hanamaki-minami-onsen-kyo Village, which consists of eight different hot springs like Osawa-onsen. This location has developed as a popular travel destination over the years and is well known as a hot spring and therapeutic bath resort area for people living in Hanamaki. A number of famous literaries such as Kenji Miyazawa and Kotaro Takamura have immensely enjoyed this hot spring. Nearby, you can find the "Hanamaki-onsen Rose & Herb Garden" built at the remains of Nansha-kadan Garden designed by Kenji Miyazawa, who spent his entire life in Hanamaki.
  
  Address: Hanamaki, Iwate
  Directions: 20 min ride by Iwate-ken Kotsu Bus from JR Hanamaki Station (Tohoku Line).
  
  

  Yamagata

  Zao-onsen Hot Spring
  Zao-onsen is a hot spring village founded approximately 1900 years ago, located at the foot of the Zao Mountain Range over Yamagata and Miyagi prefectures. Adjacent skiing areas welcome a number of visitors, since its high altitude assures enough snow for skiing even during warm winters. With the special water supplied by the acidic sulfur spring, which has a unique smell, you can't make any soap bubbles. However, the water is very popular among people as "water to nurture the health in children" and "water for making skin light, smooth and beautiful."
  
  Address: Zao-onsen, Yamagata
  Directions: Take a bus for Zao-onsen from JR Yamagata Station (Yamagata Shinkansen Line) to Zao-onsen Bus Terminal.
  
  

  Ginzan-onsen Hot Spring
  On both sides of the Ginzan-gawa River which runs through the town of Ginzan-onsen, you can find inns comprising three to four levels, with wooden balconies. These inns exhibit the signs of early times from Taisho Era to the early Showa Era of the 1920s, and gas lights burned after sunset create an even more romantic atmosphere. The milky waters of this spring make your body feel warm from the inside. It is also highly recommended to visit this location in the winter to enjoy its beautiful snow-covered landscape.
  
  Address: Ginzan-onsen, Obanazawa, Yamagata
  Directions: 40 min ride by bus from JR O-ishida Station (Yamagata Shinkansen Line).
  
  

  Miyagi

  Akiu-onsen Hot Spring
  Akiu-onsen is known as the hot spring resort area for people living in Sendai, the central city of the Tohoku region. You can enjoy not only the hot springs, but also a stroll in the valley which contains unique rock formations and magnificent natural sceneries of the Ohtaki Falls and other beautiful spots. 
  
  Address: Akiu-machi, Taihaku-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 
  Directions: 45 min ride by Miyagi Kotsu Bus (express) from JR Sendai Station.
  
  

  Fukushima

  Iwaki-Yumoto-onsen Hot Spring
  The Joban Coalfield was once located here, and the hot water of Iwaki-Yumoto-onsen is taken from the bored bottom of this field. There are some inns here, but among them, Spa Resort Hawaiian's is the one especially known to visitors: It is a large leisure center consisting of five theme parks such as Spring Park, Water Park, and the world's largest outdoor hot spring. 
  
  Address: Joban-Yumoto-machi, Iwaki, Fukushima 
  Directions: 2h20min ride by Super Hitachi (Joban Line) from JR Ueno Station to Yumoto Station.

• kinwashi

  7 Oct 11, 21:49

  Tamaseseri(Ball-Catching Festival)

  Half-naked men scramble for a lucky 8-kg ball in a shower of cold water

  Date: January 3rd
  Place: Hakozaki Shrine
  City: Higashi-ku,Fukuoka City
  
  Men wearing only loincloths compete for an 8-kg treasure ball (takara-no-tama) 30-cm in diameter which is believed to bring good fortune upon the person who can lift it over his head. The men are divided into the Land Team made up of farmers who mainly work on the land and the Sea Team consisting of fishermen who work at sea. Whether the New Year will bring a rich harvest or a large catch will be determined by which team wins the ball and hands it to the Shinto priest. This is one of the three main festivals of Kyushu. With a history of 500 years, its origins are said to lie in the legend of the dragon god (ryujin) offering two balls to Empress Jingu (170-269). 
  
  One o'clock in the afternoon. Two purified balls - a "yang" (representing masculinity) ball and a "yin" (representing femininity) ball - are carried to Tamatori Ebisu Shrine. The "yin" ball is dedicated to this shrine. At first, children carry the "yang" ball in the direction of Hakozaki Shrine. They then hand it to some men waiting halfway. These men start scrambling for the ball, and amid cries of "Oisa! Oisa!" the atmosphere becomes one of feverish excitement. This excitement reaches its peak by the time the men pass under the torii gate. All the while, they are splashed relentlessly with cold water despite the winter cold, as are the spectators who get soaked from head to toe. Because it is believed that just touching the ball will bring good luck, the spectators also struggle to reach the ball, creating greater panic. The Shinto priest at the shrine is waiting at the romon tower gate. If the Land Team hands him the ball it means a year of rich harvest. But if the Sea Team is the winner, it will be a year with a bumper catch. 

• kinwashi

  7 Oct 11, 21:50

  Chichibu Yomatsuri(Chichibu Night Festival)

  Gorgeous floats dash up a steep slope. 
  The fireworks displays lighting up the winter evening sky are spectacular.

  Dates: December 2nd and 3rd
  Places: Chichibu Shrine 
  City: 1-1, Banba-machi, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture
  
  Chichibu Yomatsuri is a festival of Chichibu Shrine which has a history of more than 2,000 years. It is one of Japan's three greatest hikiyama (float) festivals, together with the Gion Matsuri of Kyoto (July 1st-31st) and the Takayama Matsuri of Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture (April 14th and 15th, and October 9th and 10th).
  
  The main attraction of this festival takes place on the 3rd (the 2nd features an event held on the eve called Yoiyama). Two kasaboko which are large parasol-like objects decorated on top with weapons such as spears, and artificial flowers together with four yatai floats shaped like small houses are paraded through the city streets. In the afternoon, the floats are transformed into stages by pulling out wings on either side, where Kabuki plays are performed. 
  
  The most exciting scene of the festival unfolds on the evening of the 3rd when kasaboko and yatai floats, weighing 10-20 tons each and lit up with countless lanterns, climb up a steep slope with a mikoshi (a portable shrine). The spectators' excitement reaches its peak at the powerful sound of the drums and flutes, and the unique festival shouts of 'Ho-ryai! Ho-ryai!' The fireworks illuminating the clear winter evening skies are another of the attractions of this festival.

• kinwashi

  7 Oct 11, 21:52

  Sapporo Snow Festival

  Sapporo turns into a snow museum!
  Internationally renowned and Japan's largest snow festival.

  Dates: For 7 days, starting in the second week of February
  Places: Odori Site, Susukino Site, Satorando Site in Sapporo
  City: Chuo-ku & Higashi-ku, Sapporo City
  
  Rows of small and large snow statues are on display at three sites in Sapporo City during this festival, which is visited by two million people including overseas tourists. Odori Park which serves as the main venue is located in the city center, and a space extending 1.5km transforms into a snow museum. International Square (Nishi 11 chome, Odori) becomes the stage for the International Snow Statue Contest and every year more than 10 teams compete from all over the world. As this is a park, you can drop by whenever you like. The lit-up snow statues are so beautiful (-22:00). Moreover, the ice sculptures displayed at the Susukino Site, which is also a famous nightspot district, create a truly fantastic world. Here, you will discover unique works with Hokkaido delicacies such as crab, cuttlefish and salmon frozen inside the ice, which are fun to look at.

  The year 2006 marks the opening of Sapporo Satorando, a park designed on the theme of agriculture (9:00-17:00). In addition to attractions for children, such as the 100m long slide and the snow maze, organizers plan to have visitors experience flying in hot-air balloons and sliding down snowfields on snow rafting boards. 
  
  Members of the Self-Defense Forces had always played a vital role in the production of the gigantic snow statues and the transportation of snow, but since their dispatch to Iraq, festival preparations have mainly been conducted by citizen volunteers. 
  

• kinwashi

  8 Oct 11, 20:04

  Good News, Good News.

  Once in a life time again, what recession.

  Just this amount here we go to Japan.

   

  

   

• kinwashi

  8 Oct 11, 20:49

  

  

  

  
  

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  Information on ANA's international routes and fares.

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  â– Sales & Ticketing Period: From 29 Sep 2011 until further Notice
  â– Travel Period : From 01 Oct 2011 Until 31 Mar 2012
  [Travel period is based on departure date from Singapore]

  â– Fares From Singapore To JAPAN

  Currency：SGD

  
  

  From Singapore to Tokyo (Narita/Haneda), Osaka, Nagoya and Fukuoka [ Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka flights are via Tokyo]
  Departure dates	01Oct11-15Nov11, 09Jan12-19Jan12, 25Jan12-29Feb12

  Fare Type		Fares	Sales Period	Duration of Stay	Others
  Economy Class
  Ultra EcoValue Fares	Round Trip	200	29Sep11-31Oct11	3-14 Days

  
  

  Currency：SGD

  
  

  From Singapore to Tokyo (Narita/Haneda), Osaka, Nagoya and Fukuoka [ Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka flights are via Tokyo ]
  Seasonality and Departure dates	Basic	01Oct11-18Nov11, 01Jan12-21Jan12, 26Jan12-31Mar12	Peak	19Nov11-31Dec11, 22Jan12-25Jan12

  Fare Type			Fares		Sales Period	Duration of Stay	Others
  			Basic	Peak
  Economy Class
  Bargain EcoValue Fares	Round Trip		550	600	1 day before departure	2 Days- 1 Month
  Super EcoValue Fares	TypeB	Round Trip	650	700	7 days before departure	1 Month
  	TypeA	Round Trip	750	800
  Flex EcoValue Fares	TypeB	Round Trip	950		1 day before departure	3 Months
  	TypeA	Round Trip	1,250
  Standard EcoValue Fares	Round Trip		1,600		1 day before departure	12 Months
  	One Way		900
  Business Class
  BizValue Fares	Round Trip		3,300		1 day before departure	12 Months
  	One Way		2,300

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  Round Trip: SGD 180 / One-Way: SGD 90

  

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• kinwashi

  10 Oct 11, 17:51

  Bonden-sai(Bonden Festival)

  A contest to become the first to reach the sacred mountain, carrying bonden for the gods to descend.

  Date: January 17th
  Place: Taiheizan Miyoshi Jinja Shrine, Akita
  City: Akanuma, Akita City
  
  
  A bonden is a sacred wand measuring almost four meters in length, which serves as a marker for the gods descending to this world. In ancient times, bonden used to be made of paper or rice straw, but in recent years, they are often made by decorating a bamboo basket with colorful fabric. The bonden wands are carried by groups of children, townspeople, or even company employees. Each group entrusts the bonden with their prayers for an abundant harvest, good health for their families and success in business.
  
  Although this festival is held in all parts of Akita Prefecture, the festival at this shrine on Mt. Taiheizan (1,171 meters above sea level), the symbol of Akita City, becomes particularly heated. Men race to the shrine to become the first to make offerings of bonden. They even start hustling, jostling and grappling with one another rather violently, which explains why it is also called "Bonden fighting." The excitement reaches its peak around noon. 
  
  

  There are various interpretations of this contest, yet the wish to finish first probably stems from the natural desire to be the first to be blessed with divine powers, especially as this festival is held in the New Year. Moreover, the patron deity of Miyoshi Jinja is a god of power, so the fiercer the struggle, the more blessed the participants will be in divine power, which explains the intensity of the struggle. 
  
  In addition, the onlookers push forward to touch the triangular charms hanging from the bonden and filled with divine power. This makes the festival even more intense. Dedicated to the shrine, the bonden wands are neatly placed in the snow-covered precincts, making a fine spectacle. In former times, the bonden wands were offered to the inner shrine standing on the Taiheizan mountain top.

• kinwashi

  11 Oct 11, 21:25

  Ever hear this...wonderful festival.

   

  Setsubun(Bean-Throwing Festival)

  Date: February 3rd or 4th
  Place: All over Japan
  
  Setsubun is the day preceding risshun that is the first day of spring according to the old Japanese calendar, or the so-called lunar calendar. On the day of Setsubun, there is the custom of throwing roasted soybeans while chanting "In with Fortune! Out with Evil" in order to prevent evil ogres from entering one's house. It is believed that the ogres are warded off by throwing beans, and that good fortune will then come to one's home. On this day, events with entertainers and athletes are held at shrines all over the country. According to Japanese tradition, if you eat the same number of beans as your age, you will enjoy a year of good health.

• kinwashi

  11 Oct 11, 21:27

  Omizutori(Water-Drawing Festival)

  This event goes back 1,000 years. Buddhist priests draw up healing waters and run about with huge pine torches.

  Date: March 1st-14th
  Place: Todai-ji Temple
  City: Zoshi-cho, Nara City
  
  Priests at Todai-ji Temple, famous for its enormous statue of Buddha, confess their sins before the Eleven-faced Kannon enshrined in Nigatsu-do Hall, and also pray for world peace and a rich harvest for 14 consecutive days. This ritual, called Shuni-e, has continued since 752.
  
  During this period, an event known as Otaimatsu is really worth seeing. Priests run to and fro along the corridors of Nigatsu-do waving huge pine torches. It is believed that if you are showered with these fire sparks, you will be protected from evil things.
  
  The Omizutori, the highlight of this event, is performed early on the morning of the 13th. Water which only springs forth in front of the temple building on this very day is drawn up and offered to the Buddhist deities. This water is said to have special powers for curing all disease.
  
  This spring water is believed to reach Todai-ji after passing underground for more than 10 days from Obama City, Fukui Prefecture. Even today, the Omizuokuri ceremony is performed on March 2nd at Jingu-ji Temple in Fukui Prefecture to see off the departure of the divine water.
  
  Water that has been drawn up is poured into a pot the following day, and to this pot they add water taken from a different pot which has been continuously replenished for over 1,200 years - the resulting mixture being preserved anew. 

• kinwashi

  12 Oct 11, 19:31

  Harvest from the sea of ​​Hokkaido 北海�U vegetables, get a bounty of mountain
  		Now accepting! Book sale a limited quantity of new potatoes grown in the northern land - not soggy - Free Shipping! ! For farm-fresh, non-bundled with other items. Shipping them straightaway!  Now accepting! Free Shipping 10kg potato production] [Hokkaido Tokachi (Baron), harvested from the farm or shipped direct from only the garlic for  Item Number  101 MSRP Open price Price 1,980 yen (2,079 yen including tax) including postage SOLD OUT E-mail to a friend Send the URL to the mobile Add to favorite products See review (1)   Write I temper it produced Tokachi, Hokkaido 音更 produced in Hokkaido Week (Monday and Friday) Shipping 10kg (mixed size) Please eat as soon as possible  if that'll turn a new ※ The thin skin during transport. Please note.

• kinwashi

  12 Oct 11, 22:29

  Hakata Dontaku Festival

  Let's dance in squares together! Japan's largest citizens' festival, with a history of 800 years.

  Dates: May 3rd - 4th
  Places: In Fukuoka City
  City: Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City
  
  People dressed up in unique costumes parade through the streets while clapping shamoji spoons and dance on stages and in squares in various quarters of the town. A shamoji, which is a wooden utensil for serving rice, evokes the image of a woman, busy preparing a meal, dashing out to join the parade passing in front of her house. The parade of gorgeously decorated vehicles called hana jidosha is also entertaining. Of all the Japanese festivals held during the so-called Golden Week when there is a series of national holidays from the end of April to early May, the Hakata Dontaku boasts the greatest number of spectators, with some two million people turning out every year. Visitors are also welcome, so don' t hesitate to join in!
  
  The name Dontaku is derived from the Dutch word Zondag meaning "Sunday" or "a holiday." It started in 1179 as a New Year performance known as matsubayashi. In the Edo Period, it evolved into a parade headed by people dressed up as auspicious gods when visits were paid to the Lord of Fukuoka Castle. This parade was called Torimon. Although the Meiji Government banned this parade because of its extravagance, the citizens preserved their traditions by changing the name of the parade to Dontaku. It was also suspended during World War II, but was revived soon after the war ended to bring back life to the town, and contributed to its rejuvenation. It is truly a citizens' festival. Today, it has changed its name to the Hakata Dontaku Port Festival (Hakata Dontaku Port Festival), with a number of events also held around Hakata Port.

• kinwashi

  12 Oct 11, 22:31

  Dezome-shiki(New Year's Parade of Firemen)

  Warning people of the dangers of fire through acrobatic stunts on top of ladders.

  Date: January 6th
  Place: Tokyo Big Sight
  City: Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo
  
  Organized by the Tokyo Fire Department, this is an event held to pray for a safe year. Although similar events are held throughout Japan, the spectacular New Year's Parade of Firemen has over 100 fire engines and helicopters participating, along with as large-scale fire-fighting and emergency drills.
  
  The main attraction is the ladder stunts. Men dressed as firemen of the Edo Period (17th-19th Centuries) perform circus-like acrobatic stunts on top of bamboo which tower over the heads of the men supporting them. These demonstrations have been held since then to warn people of the dangers of fire. 
  
  The ladder was an indispensable fire-fighting tool in the Edo Period. This was because the main method back then was to tear down the surrounding buildings to prevent fire from spreading, so there was a need to climb up onto roofs. As agile movement was required, it was mostly nimble scaffolding workers who served as firemen in each town. These workers set up scaffolding when constructing buildings. As they needed to climb up higher when putting up the scaffolding, they had extraordinary strength and stamina. 
  
  Great fires struck Edo several times, burning down the greater part of the city. Following a very big fire known as Meireki no Taika in 1657, the Jobikeshi fire brigade was formed to protect strategic sites such as Edo Castle. Fire corps were stationed full-time in four locations in Edo. 
  
  The New Year's Parade of Firemen first started with firemen praying in front of the shrine of Ueno Toshogu for a safe and sound year ahead, free of fires for Edo 
  

• kinwashi

  12 Oct 11, 22:36

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

  This Hokkaido crab production
  Okhotsk seafood	Upon landing in sequence within
  Over 2.5kg	1,800 yen flight uniform national
  I will send refrigerated flight, please savor soon as possible.

  In relation to weather, ships may be as bad of late. Please note.
  
  When more than one order, a duplicate will be calculated shipping, we will fix it at the shop, please order with confidence.
  ※ This product is for the flight, are not eligible for free shipping on orders $ 50. Please note.

• kinwashi

  13 Oct 11, 18:49

  You are here:

  1. asahi.com
  2. Life
  3. Environment
  4. Most beautiful villages in Japan Photo Contest 2011

  Most beautiful villages in Japan Photo Contest 2011

  Photo Contest "2011 Scene of the most beautiful villages in Japan" to introduce the winners. To protect the rural landscape of the Japanese culture never loses recoverable, that goal is one and only support the rural small but bright. NPO "Japan's most beautiful village" organized by the Union. The same coalition currently has 37 member municipalities have. For more information The coalition website to.

  When you click on the picture, the larger image. You can flip through and see the other. In some environments, it may take some time to appear.

  Available for purchase (can not you also have pictures)

  • Grand Prix
  • Prize
  • Winners
  • Selected

  Grand Prix

  Prize

  Winners

  Selected

• kinwashi

  13 Oct 11, 18:54

  What so difficult? to built?

   

  http://youtu.be/nPoaFhn2Py0

• kinwashi

  13 Oct 11, 18:58

  What so difficult? see the amount? transaction.

   

  http://youtu.be/pTBMvg8fDKk

   

   

• kinwashi

  13 Oct 11, 19:01

   

  マグロ

   

  http://youtu.be/P_NcD5QYq4Y

• kinwashi

  13 Oct 11, 19:04

  マグロ解体

   

   

  http://youtu.be/CgesNjHwrEo

• kinwashi

  13 Oct 11, 19:07

  近大マザー���解体ショー����ん寿�】

   

   

  http://youtu.be/EozPZrXuEWY

• kinwashi

  13 Oct 11, 20:18

  Aomori Nebuta Matsuri and Hirosaki Neputa Matsuri

  Gigantic papier-mache dolls decorating the Tohoku night with bright colors.

  Dates: 
  Aomori Nebuta Matsuri: August 2nd-7th 
  Hirosaki Neputa Matsuri: August 1st-7th
  Places: 
  Aomori Nebuta Matsuri: throughout Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture 
  Hirosaki Neputa Matsuri: throughout Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture 
  

  This event is held in the Tohoku District on July 7th according to the lunar calendar. Bamboo and wooden frames are covered with paper illustrated with historic figures and pictures of samurai warriors along with birds and beasts. These are illuminated from inside and set up on yatai floats and cars which proceed in the Aomori Nebuta (Neputa in Hirosaki) parade. Today, the festivals organized in Aomori and Hirosaki are especially well known, attracting tourists from all areas of Japan. They are ranked among the four largest festivals of Tohoku, together with the Akita Kanto Matsuri lantern festival (Akita City), the Sendai Tanabata Matsuri star festival (Sendai City) and the Yamagata Hanagasa Matsuri flower hat festival (Yamagata City). 
  
  There are several versions of its origins. It is widely believed to originate in the custom of neburi-nagashi for casting away into rivers and the sea drowsiness and laziness which were tremendous hindrances in farm work. There is also the legend of how Sakanoue-no-Tamuramaro (758-811), the warlord of the day came to stamp out the Ezo people of Hokkaido and the very north of Honshu, the main island, who did not obey the Imperial Court. He hid soldiers inside gigantic dolls as a lure to his enemies and succeeded in destroying them. As a matter of fact, the festival of Aomori City signifies 'departure for the front' while that of Hirosaki City signifies 'triumphant return'.
  
  The greatest attractions of the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri are the gorgeous and colorful three-dimensional nebuta designed after warrior dolls such as Ushiwakamaru and Benkei, bearing some resemblance to Kabuki, and the very wild dances performed by participants called haneto who march and dance merrily to the sounds of drums and festival music. In contrast, the Hirosaki Neputa Matsuri is characterized by the 60 small and large fan-shaped neputa with pictures depicted from 'Sangokushi' or 'Three Kingdom Saga' and 'Suikoden' or 'Outlaws of the Marsh,' both of which are heroic legends handed down in China. The triumphant parade of neputa floats through the streets of Hirosaki in the late afternoon is particularly worth seeing. 

• kinwashi

  13 Oct 11, 20:29

  Japanese is much better. way of doing thing.

   

  http://youtu.be/kAjvWKnj4Go

• kinwashi

  13 Oct 11, 20:32

  Hygiene...let the Japanese teach you?

   

  http://youtu.be/cOarH9dX318