Official Author

ひろ（HIRO）

The Traditional Candy Sculpting Art of "Amezaiku Yoshihara" "Fujimaki Select Ginza Store" created this short documentary video in which an artisan of a Tokyo-based shop specializing in Amezaiku, "Amezaiku Yoshihara", demonstrates the traditional candy sculpting. The method for making Amezaiku is laid out in the short video. It's not subbed, but don't worry. The description given in this article will help you understand it, and we'll also explain its history as a popular street performance in Japan during the Edo period(1603-1868 A.D.). An artisan shop in Tokyo specializing in Amezaiku, "Amezaiku Yoshihara" draws even international attention. Not only the demonstrate sales, Yoshihara offers some enjoyable workshops designed to make us get familiar to the traditional art of candy sculpting. Amezaiku - From the Edo Period to the Present Photo：Amezaiku Amezaiku is mentioned in the old texts written during the Edo period. In the old days, Amezaiku artists were selling it on the streets or at festivals. This vestige is still seen today, demonstrated in the sale of Amezaiku at festivals or cultural events, which is commonplace in Japan. Mystical animals or flowers shaped by the artists' hands are particularly entertaining, especially among children. Yoshihara is committed not only to passing on the traditional art, but also to the tastes and qualities of the treats. How to Shape Candy Into a Maneki-neko (Beckoning Cat) Source :YouTube screenshot Amezaiku involves many steps but the whole process is done by hand. 1. The candy base is boiled until it becomes soft, then kneaded and pulled so as to have the proper appearance. (0:05-) 2. The candy ball is then formed into a ball and mounted on a stick (0:56-) Source :YouTube screenshot 3. Using their hands or other tools, the candy ball is then shaped into a cat. This sculpting step should be completed within 3 minutes before the candy cools and hardens again. (1:12-) 4. Heat is then applied using a burner to attach the tiny decorative heart to the cat. (2:06) Source :YouTube screenshot 5. The cat's face is painted with edible coloring. (2:43-) 6. The candy sculpted cat is completed. (3:53-) Information About Amezaiku Yoshihara "Amezaiku Yoshihara" opened in 2008 as the first shop in Japan dedicated to Amezaiku. The popular products such as rabbits, pandas, owls or shiba dogs are also available on their online shop. The price range of these miniature edible craftworks is from 700-1000 yen. How about getting some as a souvenir? they've got more than just ready-made candies as well. You can also pick from their catalogue and the candy maker will make it for you. It is also possible to hire them to demonstrate sales at festivals or events. Yoshihara offers candy sculpting workshops at the Yanaka branch. Participants are instructed to create 3 different Amezaiku crafts in an hour-long workshop. Summary of the Amezaiku Demonstration Video Source :YouTube screenshot In the video, an Amezaiku artist sculpts a Beckoning Cat with expert speed while giving a sales talk. Such conversations are also a part of the entertainment. Watch the video to learn the Japanese candy sculpting process ! ◆Amezaiku Yoshihara Sendagi Main Store◆ 【Address】 Tomoe Biru 1F, Sendagi 1-23-5 Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo (zip 113-0022) 【Access】3 minutes from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Sendagi Station 【Hours】Mon, Wed -Fri 13:00 - 18:00 (the demonstrate sales till 17:00), Sat-Sun & Holidays 10:00 - 18:00 (the demonstrate sales till 17:00) 【Closures】Tuesdays (except statutory holidays that fall on Tuesday) 【Parking】 No dedicated parking lot (There are some paid parkings in the block) 【Telephone No】(+81) 03-6323-3319 【Official Website】Amezaiku Yoshihara https://ame-yoshihara.com/english/

Sendai, Miyagi's Traditional Craft- "Tamamushi Lacquerware" This promotional video titled, "Tamamushi Lacquerware, a Traditional Craft of Miyagi Prefecture"（宮城県指定伝統的工芸品「玉虫塗」), introduces "Tamamushi Lacquerware" a traditional craft of Sendai. It was created by TohokuKogei Showroom. The video lasts for only about two-minutes, so it is perfect for those who want to quickly get to know the history and process of Tamamushi Lacquerware. This article will give you the detailed information on the history of, and facts about Tamamushi Lacquerware alongside the video. Tamamushi Lacquerware is produced in Sendai City in Miyagi Prefecture which is located in Japan’s Tohoku Region; it has a wide range of contemporary products that are sure to please foreign visitors. A Tamamushi Lacquer keepsake box was introduced as an official product of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Appreciate the beauty and master craftsmanship behind Tamamushi Lacquerware, the renowned traditional artwork of Japanese culture, through the video. The History of Tamamushi Lacquerware Source :YouTube screenshot Tamamushi Lacquerware is produced in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture in Japan's Tohoku region. It's very unique, and its stunning glazed finish resulted in it being named "Tamamushi (Jewel beetle)” since they reflect light in the same way a jeweled beetle’s wings do. Tamamushi Phoenix Maki-e (0:11) is another highly regarded type of art. The origin of Tamamushi Lacquerware dates back to a time when they were developed as “exports” at the National Tohoku Craftworks Institute in Sendai in 1932. “TohokuKogei” acquired the patent license in 1939 and has continued creation since. In 1985, Tamamushi lacquer ware was designated as a Miyagi Traditional Craft. Many products with modern designs, such as tumblers and wine glasses, are popular as Japanese souvenirs for visitors to Japan and have become part of Japanese life as a specialty of Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture. The Production Process of Tamamushi Lacquerware Source :YouTube screenshot Just like other lacquerware, The production process of Sendai's Tamamushi Lacquerware begins with making the foundations; they apply lacquer, then polish the lacquerware over and over until the surface is incredibly smooth. Silver dust is spread on a base coating of lacquerware, followed by a coating of colorful red and green lacquer. This process of repeated polishing is what makes it possible for lacquerware to emit it's unique, beautiful gloss. When the lacquer dries, light reflects through the silver underneath. The video shows a craftman spreading silver powder on lacquerware and polishing them. You can also see burgundy-colored lacquer being sprayed on lacquerware at 1:07. The Price and Product Lines of Tamamushi Lacquerware Source :YouTube screenshot Their wide range of products includes trays, vases, teacups, and music boxes, and there are also small hand mirrors, bookmarks, chopsticks, ballpoint pens, and fountain pens. The finished products can be viewed at 1:57. A large metal vase costs at least 80,000 yen, but hand mirrors and chopsticks are quite affordable and make great gifts. They are 1,200 yen and 800 yen respectively. They also launched a collaboration item with the popular Pokemon, Lapras, in 2019. TohokuKogei, introduced in the video, has a showroom in Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture. You can purchase regular items and new items such as processed glassware there. You can also find the “Shimanuki head office of Kokeshi” in Aoba-ku, and you can shop for Tamamushi lacquerware there as well. You can also find these items via various online shops such as Rakuten and Amazon. Summary- Attractions of Tamamushi Lacquerware- This video shows the production process and techniques of lacquerware, as well as the natural surroundings of Sendai. If you are interested in the world of Japanese traditional lacquerware, which shines like the wings of a jewel beetle, definitely don't miss this video! 【Official Website】The Head Office of “Tamamushi Lacquerware,” TohokuKogei http://www.t-kogei.co.jp/en/

Japanese Model, Mori Hikari This video was created by the fashion magazine "VOGUE JAPAN." It's titled "Fashion week in Paris, with Mori Hikari｜Hotel Routine｜My Routine｜VOGUE JAPAN." In this video, we'll go over Mori Hikari's routine and her unadorned face when she arrives in Paris to participate in Men's Fashion Week. Mori Hikari is a talented model and the younger sister of Mori Izumi. She is active outside of Japan and her grandmother is the world-renown fashion designer, Hanae Mori. She is the youngest of five siblings. Mori Hikari, has a carefree smile and a short hairstyle, is 175 cm tall and has excellent style. After working as a reader model for the fashion magazine Hanachu, she appeared in commercials for various magazines and Shiseido, and also appears on TV as a celebrity, which allows her to go beyond the modeling world. Also known as a celebrity, in 2011 she attended Debutante Bar, a gathering of young upper-class daughters full of talent and potential. In this article, we'll go over how Mori Hikari spends time at her favorite hotel in Paris. Mori Hikari's Stay in Paris Source :YouTube screenshot The video starts with Mori Hikari entering the hotel. The first thing she does in the room, as you can see at 0:31 in the video, is take out her clothes from her suitcase and hang it in the closet. Mori says in the video that, during fashion week, she brings lots of clothes, shoes, accessories, etc. because she doesn't want to wear the same outfits. Source :YouTube screenshot Next, she arranges her makeup kits neatly in the bathroom. Then it's time for a relaxing soak in the bathtub. After taking a bath, she puts on the bathrobe prepared by the hotel, with her name sewn on it, changes into her pajamas, and goes to bed. You can see Mori Hikari's bathroom routine at 1:40 in the video. The next morning, she wakes up refreshed and looking cute! After checking her Instagram and e-mail, she reads for a bit and then gets dressed. You can see this part of her routine at 3:06 in the video. Mori Hikari's Favorite Spot in Paris Source :YouTube screenshot One of Mori Hikari's favorite places to go during her stay in Paris is a Parisian restaurant where she gets breakfast. She always orders organic coconut and dragon fruit, and says that it feels good to eat healthy and she can try different foods while she travels. Her next favorite spot is a bookstore. Here, she buys photo books that are hard to find in Japan and cookbooks that she's interested in. Even Her Private Clothes Are Stylish! Source :YouTube screenshot During Fashion Week in Paris, Mori Hikari says that she tries out new outfits that she wouldn't normally be able to wear in Japan and tries to coordinate her outfits in a playful way. In the video, she wears bright blue pants that coordinate with her outfit. Summary of Japanese Model, Mori Hikari The video "Fashion week in Paris, with Mori Hikari｜Hotel Routine｜My Routine｜VOGUE JAPAN," is full of Mori Hikari’s smiling face. If you're interested in Mori Hikari and her warm aura, be sure to check out the video! 【Official Website】Mori Hikari | Image Models http://www.image-tokyo.co.jp/models/hikari-mori/

Ayatori! This video was created by "Ayatori Dekita!" Fun Lessons From Baaba!" The title of the video is "[Ayatori Shapes] Cradle, Rice Field, Diamond, a Japanese Hand Drum, a Ship, and a Rope Bridge. Slightly Difficult Techniques of Ayatori for Adults [Audio Commentary] String Figures / Baaba's Ayatori" (あやとりできた! ばぁばが楽しく教えるよ」が制作した『【あやとり連続技】ゆりかご・田んぼ・川・ダイヤモンド・つづみ・船・つり橋　ちょっと難しい変身あやとり　大人向け【音声解説あり】String figures / ばぁばのあやとり). The video explains advanced level Ayatori for adults, in a slow, easy-to-understand format. Be sure to check it out! What is Ayatori? Photo：Ayatori Ayatori is a game where you make different shapes with a string looped around your fingers. It's basically the same as cat's cradle, but the shapes/names are different due to cultural differences. Ayatori is also called "Itodori" and "Chidori," in different regions of Japan. It's a very popular game played by children all over the world. It is said to have a great effect on children's intellectual development because of the use of hands and fingers and using one's imagination to think of shapes and understand how to manipulate the string. Ayatori can be played with multiple players by taking turns and transforming the string into different shapes, or it can be played solo, as shown in the video. There are also people who do magic tricks that involve ayatori. The origin and the history of ayatori is unknown, but there is a theory that it started around the Heian period (794-1185) in Japan. Unfortunately there is no proof to back this theory. Basic Techniques and How to Play Ayatori Source :YouTube screenshot This video gives an easy to understand commentary on how to make different shapes for solo play ayatori. The video starts with a single string sitting in a loop on a table. From there, Baaba teaches viewers how to hold the string, and then how to make a cradle (3:04), a rice field (5:21), a river (6:09), a diamond (9:47), a Japanese hand drum (12:46), a ship (13:20), and finally a rope bridge (14:03). This video also gives tips on how to hold the string on your fingers and how to remove it from your fingers. There are a lot of cool techniques you can learn by watching it. Some other techniques, not shown in the video, include "rubber," broom, ladders, turtles, bridges, stars, and even Tokyo tower! Rubber and broom are relatively easy to make, so these are perfect for beginners. Overview of Ayatori Photo：A parent and child playing Ayatori Ayatori is a fun game that can be enjoyed with just a single piece of string! Be sure to watch the video to learn about some cool shapes that you can practice. It's also great for kids, so if you have some little one's of your own, be sure to try it together!

Beautiful Views and Attractions at Fuji-Q Highland The video "Episode 1: A Survey of Beautiful Scenery at Fuji-Q Highland" (エピソード１「富士急ハイランドの絶景を調査せよ」) was created by "Fuji-Q Highland Official" (Fuji-Q Highland Official富士急ハイランド公式). In this video, the popular heroes of Fuji-Q Highland, "Shrill Attraction Squadron Highlander," introduces the attractions where you can enjoy a spectacular view. Fuji Q Highland is at the foot of the mountain and people call it “Fuji-Q.” Fuji-Q Highland is a popular amusement park located at the foot of Mt. Fuji. The park, with a total area of 500,000 square meters, is a popular spot with the world's largest collection of attractions, recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records. At Fuji-Q, you'll find Thomas Land, La Ville de Gaspard et Lisa, an ice skating rink, Fuji-Q Highland Conifer Forest, and more! There are also a wide range of nearby tourist facilities such as the Fuji Five Lakes International Skate Center, hotels and Fujiyama Hot Spring. Check out the video of three of the most spectacular thrill rides, selected from more than 40 different attractions at Fuji-Q Highland! Thrill Rides at Fuji-Q Source :YouTube screenshot The first, recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records, is "Takabisha," with a maximum drop of 121 degrees. It can be seen at 0:32 in the video. As you can see in the video, it makes a quick drop causing passengers to scream with excitement! Just before the drop, you can see a beautiful view of the area around Mt. Fuji. The next attraction, introduced at 1:08 in the video, is Fujiyama, one of the four Guinness Book of World Records-certified, iconic attractions at Fuji-Q Highland. From the top of the attraction, you can see a panoramic view of Fuji-Q Highland and Mount Fuji. "Do-Dodonpa," seen at 2:05 in the video, is the worlds fastest roller coaster in the world, accelerating to 180 km/h in just 1.56 seconds! It also has the largest loop in the world, with a diameter of 39.7 meters, inside of which you can feel the centrifugal force creating a zero-gravity zone, and the light tunnel at the start of the ride allows you to experience a different dimension! All three attractions featured in the video are available with priority scream tickets (Zekkyo Priority Ticket), that allow you to skip the lines, even when the park is busy! "Shrill Attraction Squadron Highlander" Source :YouTube screenshot "Shrill Attraction Squadron Highlander" is the rag-tag group of "heroes" introducing the rides in the video. There are 6 members and they have a bunch of funny interactions throughout the video. Summary of Fuji-Q Highland Photo：Roller coaster Did you enjoy the comedic guide of Fuji-Q by "Shrill Attraction Squadron Highlander"? There are other attractions, including the large roller coaster "Eejanaika," "Tekkotsubanchou - Sky Tower Swinger," the water attraction "Cool Jappaan," "Tentekomai - Sky Roller," "Fuji Airways," "Super Scary Labyrinth of Fear - Haunted Hospital," "Mad Mouse," "Tondemina - Super Pendulum," and more at Fuji-Q Highland! You can also enjoy lunch at Starbucks or other restaurants and cafés inside the park. You can get to Fuji-Q Highland by public transportation, private car, and bus tours such as the night bus which comes with a free pass. Admission is free and tickets are required for each attraction. If you plan on riding more than four roller coasters, we highly recommend buying the free pass. It's possible to get tickets online from the official homepage as well. ◆Information◆ 【Address】5-6-1 Shinnishihara, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0017 【Access】Take the Chuo Expressway via Otsuki junction and get off at Kawaguchiko interchange 【Entrance fee】Entrance ticket free. Need another ticket for rides. 【Hours】9:00-17:00 (depends on the seasons) 【Closures】Not fixed 【Parking】Parking area available 【Telephone No】0555-23-2111 【Official Website】Fuji-Q Highland https://www.fujiq.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Fuji-Q Highland https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g681223-d532058-Reviews-Fuji_Q_Highland-Fujiyoshida_Yamanashi_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html

Pedaling Made Easy Thanks to "Free Power" This video, titled "Hill Climbing Made Easy｜A Non-Electric Assisted Bicycle (10/18/2019)" (坂道もスイスイ　電動じゃないアシスト自転車とは？(18/10/19)), was produced by "ANNnewsCH." It introduces "Free Power," a power assisted bicycle not powered by electricity! This article will talk about the revolutionary non-electric power assisted bicycle "Free Power FG-1" (フリーパワーFG-1), that doesn't use motors, batteries, or electricity and costs 1/3 of a normal, electric power assisted bicycle. From 3:01 in the video, the news anchor can be seen riding the bicycle and seeing what it's like. She's blurts out how surprised she is saying things like "it doesn’t even feel like you're going up a hill!" Be sure to take a look at the video to see what "Free Power" is capable of! The Non-Electric, Assisted Bicycle, "Free Power" Source :YouTube screenshot In Japan and many other places, the bicycle is a necessary item in daily life, used for going to work or to school, and in Japan, where there's a LOT of hills, you need a lot of physical strength to get around without walking. For that reason, in recent years, power assisted bicycles have become very popular and the numbers of products being shipped overseas is also on the rise. In the video, a new type of non-electric assisted bike is shown. The non-electric assisted bicycle "Free Power" uses the "free power crank gear," with a specialized silicon piece inside, that can be attached to the pedal of the bicycle you are currently using (some bikes may not be compatible). You can see how to attach the gear at 2:48 in the video. The way it works is that when you pedal, the silicone absorbs the force and makes it lighter, and due to the repellent force, there is more acceleration. This makes it easier to move forward and reduces energy loss. The details of the parts of the assist gear are explained at 3:49 in the video. The Effects and Features of "Free Power" Source :YouTube screenshot The effects and features of "Free Power" are as follows: 1. Very easy to start pedaling 2. Easy on joints (knees, ankles, etc.) 3. Able to sustain speed 4. Easy to travel uphill and pedal for long distances 5. Less prone to sore muscles Free Power was developed by Free Power Inc. and is sold at stores like Cycle Olympic and more. It's possible to have the assist gear attached at stores where they are sold, and the number of stores that stock them is continuing to increase. It is a very popular product and is continuously sold out, so be careful not to miss your chance! Summary of the Non-Electric Assisted Bicycle "Free Power" Photo：A mother and child on an electric-assisted bike "Free Power" provides long term pedaling support without the need to carry a heavy battery and without worrying about running out of charge. Watching the video "Hill Climbing Made Easy｜A Non-Electric Assisted Bicycle (10/18/2019)" you'll probably be surprised at how easy it is to get around. If you're like many, and find yourself riding your bike for long distances and being worn out, why not give "Free Power" a try? 【Official Website】FREE POWER｜Bicycle｜Bicycle Repair https://www.olympic-corp.co.jp/cycle/freepower

Takamoto Katsuta - The Rally Driver Aiming for #1 at the World Rally Championship This video, created by "TOYOTA GAZOO Racing," is titled "Challenge Program 2016 Takamoto Katsuta ver." (Challenge Program 2016 勝田貴元篇). It introduces rally driver, Takamoto Katsuta, training as a challenge driver at the "TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Rally Challenge Program" in 2016. The "TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Rally Challenge Program" is Toyota's training program for young rally drivers, which started in 2015. and Takamoto Katsuta and Daiki Arai were selected through an audition to train with the program. Takamoto Katsuta competed in the Rally Championship in 2016 and aims to achieve greater growth through practice. In this article, we'll introduce Takamoto Katsuta’s personal history, and more alongside the video. Before we go any further, take a look at the video of him racing through a rally course at speeds greater than 200km/h (124 Mph) on a course full of ups, downs, and curves! Who Is Takamoto Katsuta? Source :YouTube screenshot Takamoto Katsuta is a rally driver born on March 17, 1993 in Aichi Prefecture. He started kart racing when he was in the 6th grade and did very well, winning multiple competitions. He has won the All Japan F3 Championship and the All Japan Rally Championship (JRC) as a TDP driver. His father is the All Japan Rally Championship (JRC) champion, Norihiko Katsuta, and his grandfather is also a former rally driver. He began attending the Formula Toyota Racing School (FTRS) in 2009 at 16 years old and switched to rally in 2015. He trained in Europe and competed in championships in various countries through the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Rally Challenge Program, and in 2016, he entered the World Rally Championship for the first time in the WRC2 class. This video shows footage from that race. He got married in private in 2017, and has been posting updates about his recent activities on Instagram. Takamoto Katsuta’s Training in Europe and the Result of the Finland Rally Championship Finals Source :YouTube screenshot In the beginning of the video, at 0:15, Takamoto says in an interview, "I want to be a world-class driver," and you can see his struggle to make the switch from car racer to rally driver. While navigating a course, communication with the co-driver in the passenger's seat is very important. This can be seen at 0:44 in the video. The co-driver has the important role of being the navigator and gives the driver directions and provides information about the course. The first thing they face here is the language barrier. The slightest error in judgment or misunderstanding can lead to a crash. And we see this happen at 1:25 in the video, as he crashes, flipping the car and ending his run. At 1:37 in the video, we see Takamoto Katsuta training in his room to overcome the language barrier by watching the video and audio that his co-driver had navigated in the past to prepare for the final round of the Finland Rally Championship Finals in September 2016. You can see the event at 2:06 in the video. In this competition, he placed a disappointing 11th place. Be sure to check out the video of Takamoto Katsuta, a driver aiming for the top of rally racing! Summary of Rally Driver, Takamoto Katsuta Source :YouTube screenshot Takamoto Katsuta was again selected for the "TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Rally Challenge Program" and will continue to challenge WRC in 2020. Many are expecting good results from Takamoto Katsuta in future. If you're interested in learning more about rally driver, Takamoto Katsuta after reading this article, be sure to check out the video! 【Official Website】WRC Challenge Program | TOYOTA GAZOO Racing https://toyotagazooracing.com/jp/challengeprogram_rally/

What NOT to Do While Using Chopsticks! This video, titled "Are You Using Your Chopsticks Correctly? 16 Things NOT to Do When Using Chopsticks" (正しく使えてる？お箸のNGマナー16選), was produced by "Le TRONC - Outing Video Media." It introduces a manners course that teaches 16 things to avoid when eating with chopsticks. You might not notice it, but other people see how you use your chopsticks! This video will teach you proper chopstick etiquette, which most people, even the Japanese, get wrong. Watching the video, you'll notice how the improper way of using chopsticks is not as elegant as using them properly. Be sure to follow along with the video as you read all about proper chopstick etiquette! The Do's and Don'ts of Chopsticks! Photo：Japan's chopstick etiquette This video presents 16 of the most common violations of chopstick etiquette. Each breach of etiquette has its own name and reason. For the purpose of valuing the culture of chopsticks in our daily lives, it's important to understand what is incorrect, and why. Without further ado, here is a list of the 16 most common violations of chopstick etiquette! Time stamps are also included by the names, so be sure to check them out as you read on. 【#1】Yose-bashi (0:03) This is the act of moving a dish toward you with your chopsticks. To avoid this, place your chopsticks on the chopstick rest and move the dish with both hands. 【#2】Kasane-bashi (0:10) This refers to eating the same dish continuously. The polite thing to do is try a variety of dishes. 【#3】Neburi-bashi (0:17) This is refers to licking or nipping the end of your chopsticks. It looks childish and makes people you are eating with uncomfortable, so definitely avoid doing this. 【#4】Utsuri-bashi (0:23) This is when you pick up one item, and without eating it, choose a different one. If you pick something up with your chopsticks, proper etiquette is to eat it. 【#5】Sashi-bashi (0:30) This is often done by inexperienced chopstick users. It refers to spearing the food rather than picking it up. This is also seen as childish and should be avoided. 【#6】Mogi-bashi (0:37) This is where you remove food stuck to your chopsticks with your mouth. Proper etiquette is to remove it with a special paper so that it is not seen by those you are dining with. 【#7】Furiage-bashi (0:44) Pointing at someone with your chopsticks. This can make people incredibly uncomfortable, so this is another one you should definitely avoid. 【#8】Watashi-bashi (0:51) This refers to resting chopsticks sideways across the top of a dish or bowl. Many people are guilty of this one. If you want to set your chopsticks down, place them on your chopstick rest. 【#9】Namida-bashi (0:57) This is letting soup or sauce drip from your chopsticks like tears ("namida" in Japanese). Use a dish to catch it instead. 【#10】Seseri-bashi (1:04) This is the act of using your chopsticks to remove food stuck in your teeth. This is simply unpleasant to look at. 【#11】Putting your chopsticks vertically in your rice (1:11) This is the act of sticking chopsticks in your rice and standing it up. This is something you do at the deathbed of someone who has passed away or at a Buddhist altar. Use a chopstick rest here too. 【#12】Oshikomi-bashi (1:18) This is to push the food into your mouth with your chopsticks. It's best not to stuff your mouth as full as possible with food. 【#13】Mayoi-bashi (1:25) This is bring your chopsticks close to something to eat it and then changing your mind and choosing something else. Proper etiquette entails that, once your bring your chopsticks towards a dish, you eat it. 【#14】Saguri-bashi (1:31) This refers to using your chopsticks to rummage through your dish to find the food you like. Avoid doing this by eating what is at the top of your dish. 【#15】Hiroi-bashi (1:38) This refers to passing food between chopsticks. This is something done at funerals and should also be avoided. If you want to share food with someone, pass it to their plate directly, or have them bring it to their plate directly. 【#16】Kakikomi-bashi (1:45) This is the act of holding a bowl to your mouth and shoveling food in quickly. It's respectful to take your time eating, to show that you are savoring the flavors. Summary of Chopstick Etiquette Photo：A family eating If you use your chopsticks properly everyone at the table will feel comfortable and can enjoy their meal. If you check out the video "Are You Using Your Chopsticks Correctly? 16 Things NOT to Do When Using Chopsticks," you'll notice that these breaches of etiquette do in fact look inelegant. We hope this article has helped you learn proper chopstick etiquette and will make you confident about your chopsticks skills!

About the DVD and Blu-Ray of the Musical "Touken Ranbu" This is a promotional video published by "PRIME CAST." The title of this video is "Shibuya no Oto Presents the Musical 'Touken Ranbu' - From 2.5D to the World ＜Special Edition＞ Blu-ray & DVD Launch Announcement Video" (シブヤノオト Presents ミュージカル『刀剣乱舞』 -2.5次元から世界へ- ＜特別編集版＞ Blu-ray&DVD 発売告知動画). This DVD/Blu-ray was released in June, 2019. This DVD/Blu-ray closely covered "Touken Ranbu - Atsukashiyama 2018" in Paris, France. It also contains unreleased footage of Touken Ranbu performed at the music show "Shibuya no Oto." In addition, bonus videos, including stage footage from the performances "MUSIC JAPAN" and "Shibuya no Oto," which can be seen at 1:36 in the video, the special medley performance at "SONGS OF TOKYO" (2:16), and the live performance in 2018 at the Japanese traditional New Year’s eve music show "Kohaku Uta Gassen (2:45) are also contained in this DVD/Blu-ray. This article will introduce the musical "Touken Ranbu" alongside the video. Check out the video to get a feel for the 2.5-dimensional world of Touken Ranbu. About the Musical, Touken Ranbu Source :YouTube screenshot Toukenranbu is a very popular online game released in 2016 as a smartphone app from DMM Games. It's a sword training simulation game in which players collect "sword boys" by anthropomorphizing famous Japanese swords to fight their enemies in historical battles. Due to the popularity of the game, famous Japanese swords have attracted attention and have been exhibited in museums, shown at musicals, used in theatre, appeared in animations and movies, have had events made about them and have even had products made available for sale. The 2.5-dimensional work refers to the space between the two-dimensional game and the three-dimensional real world. The musical "Touken Ranbu" is a 2.5-dimensional musical action play in which actors recreate the world of the game on stage. Touken Ranbu -From 2.5D to the World ＜Special Edition＞ Source :YouTube screenshot The musical "Touken Ranbu" is still being performed and has many different programs. This DVD/Blu-ray contains a program called “Atsukushiyama 2018,” a story about sword men preventing historical revisionists from altering the history of Yoshitsune Minamoto and Musashibo Benkei. This DVD/Blu-ray closely covered the backstage at this musical performed in Paris, France. Other programs include “Bakumatsu Tenroden” and “Three Hundred Years of Lullaby,” while "Bakumatsu Tenrouden 2020" (幕末天狼傳2020) and "Sword Dance: Paradise of the Sea of Tranquility" (刀剣乱舞 ～静かの海のパライソ～) are scheduled to be performed in 2020. The musical will be divided into two parts: the first part is a musical and the second part is a live performance where the audience can enthusiastically support their favorite characters. The main cast of “Atsukashiyama 2018” is led by Mario Kuroba, Ryo Kitazono, Tsubasa Sakiyama all of whom have appeared in the musical Prince of Tennis. A behind-the-scenes look at the performance, including Ryo Kitazono's voice only appearance due to a doctor's stop just before the Paris show (0:45) are included in the DVD/Blu-ray. Summary of Touken Ranbu - From 2.5D to the World ＜Special Edition＞ Source :YouTube screenshot The Musical “Touken Ranbu” will be performed again in fall, 2020. Please check the official website for ticket information. The CD album “Token Danshi team Sanjo with Kiyomitsu Kashu” is also on sale and has become very popular, especially among women. If you're interested in the musical, be sure to watch the announcement video, which shows the charm of the musical Touken Ranbu! 【Official Website】Musical “Touken Ranbu” https://musical-toukenranbu.jp/

Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park This video, titled "Peace Memorial Park," created by "Hiroshima Regional Sightseeing Information Website Hirotabi: Make a Trip to Hiroshima!," introduces "Peace Memorial Park" (平和記念公園) in Nakajima Town (中島町, Nakajimacho), Naka Ward (中区, Nakaku), Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture (広島県, Hiroshimaken) in the Chugoku Region (中国地方, Chugokuchiho) of Japan. Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima Prefecture was made near the hypocenter of the atomic bomb explosion to console the spirits of those who died in the bombing and to pray for eternal world peace. Many visitors, not just from Japan, but from all over the world, come to visit Peace Memorial Park, whose construction finished in 1955 (Showa 30), 10 years after the atomic bomb was dropped. It has become a place to remind ourselves of the terror of the atomic bomb and the importance of peace. This article will introduce information about recommended spots to visit within Peace Memorial Park, as well as famous sites near Peace Memorial Park, tourist information about those nearby sites, and how to best enjoy your trip. The video shows the entire view of Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome (原爆ドーム, Genbakudomu), and the monument. Seeing people silently praying, is enough to compel you to grieve for those lost in the tragedy and pray for world peace. A Look at Peace Memorial Park Photo：Peace Memorial Park Peace Memorial Park is a city park located on the delta where the two rivers of Hiroshima city diverge. It is 122,100 square meters in size and was completed in August 1955. It has no entrance fee, is open year round, and is truly a park that represents Japan. You can see the entire view of the Peace Memorial Park from 0:06 in the video. The park is home to 35 cenotaphs and memorials, as well as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum (広島平和記念資料館, Hiroshimakinenshiryokan), the Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims (国立広島原爆死没者追悼平和祈念館, Kokuritsuhiroshimagenbakushibotsushatsuitoheiwakinenkan) and the International Conference Center Hiroshima (広島国際会議場, Hiroshimakokusaikaigijo). You can access the Peace Memorial Park by taking a 20-minute train ride from JR Hiroshima Station (JR広島駅, JR Hiroshimaeki) to Atomic Bomb Dome Station (原爆ドーム前駅,Genbakudomumaeeki) on the Hiroshima Electric Railway (Streetcar). There is no parking lot at the park, so we recommend using public transport such as a train or bus when you visit. The Peace Memorial Photo：Atomic Bomb Dome Peace Memorial Park is one of Japan’s most famous tourist destinations, chosen as one of the "Top 100 City Parks in Japan" and the "Top 100 Historical Parks in Japan." The Atomic Bomb Dome, which conveys the terror of the atomic bomb, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. The Atomic Bomb Dome used to be the Hiroshima Prefectural Products Exhibition Hall (広島県物産陳列館, Hiroshimakenbussanchinretukan) built in 1915, but was destroyed by the atomic bomb in World War 2. The blast came from right above the building, and so the walls were left standing, and still remain to this day. The Atomic Bomb Dome that can be viewed from the cenotaph for the atomic bomb victims, is a sight that you won't forget. You can view the Atomic Bomb Dome at 0:15 in the video. The Children’s Peace Monument (原爆の子の像,Genbakunokonozo), a bronze statue of a little girl lifting up an origami crane, consoles the spirits of those who lost their lives in the atomic bomb, and calls for peace. There are origami crane booths around the statue, where strings of a thousand origami cranes from all over Japan are laid. You can observe the Statue of Prayer (祈りの像, Inorinozo), a monument built on the 15th anniversary of the end of the war, and the Phoenix Trees Exposed to the Atomic Bomb (被ばくしたアオギリ,Hibakushitaaogiri), which sprouted the following year despite half of its trunk being burned by the atomic bomb from 0:47 in the video. The sound of the Peace Bell (平和の鐘,Heiwanokane), which is rung as a prayer for peace, has been chosen as one of the "100 Soundscapes of Japan." Also, if you can have the tourism volunteer guide show you around the model course inside the park, you can learn in depth about the history and famous areas of the park, making it a popular choice for tourists. You can also take part in the Lantern Float (とうろう流し, Toronagashi) held on the river next to the Atomic Bomb Dome on August 6th. You can feel the emotions of countless people come together as one, as the prayers for peace are reflected on the river. The Lantern Float can be observed from 2:17 in the video. Tourist Spots and Delicious Food Around Peace Memorial Park ©Michio_Matsuoka Modifying A recommended tourist spot near Peace Memorial Park is Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社, Itsukushimajinja), a World Heritage Site and also one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Hiroshima and Japan. The shinden-zukuri style building (a style of architecture used for nobles’ residences during the Heian period) on the sea is popular as a beautiful, instagrammable tourist attraction. After visiting some tourist attractions, enjoy some local Hiroshima dishes! There are many Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki restaurants near Peace Memorial Park. Summary of Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima City This video, Peace Memorial Park, gives a view of Peace Memorial Park and people praying for peace and for the souls of those who lost their lives in the bombing. You may have seen Peace Memorial Park on television, but it looks completely different once you’re actually standing there. Visiting Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which was renovated in April 2019, to look at the exhibits of atomic-bomb-related materials and artifacts, and remembering the people who were lost on that day, is a life-changing experience. We hope this article and video inspired you to visit Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima Prefecture. ◆Hiroshima City Peace Memorial Park◆ 【Address】〒730-0811 1-1 Nakajima Town, Naka Ward, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture 【Access】About 20 minutes by bus from JR Hiroshima Station. 【Admission fee】None 【Hours】All day (24 hours) 【Closures】None 【Parking】None 【Telephone No】082-504-2390 【Official Homepage】Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum http://hpmmuseum.jp/?lang=eng 【Tripadvisor】Hiroshima City Peace Memorial Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298561-d1165220-Reviews-Hiroshima_Peace_Memorial_Park-Hiroshima_Hiroshima_Prefecture_Chugoku.html