podcastJAPAN

Nara Park

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 10:40:03 -0800

Established in 1880, Nara Park is an expansive public green space located in central Nara, at the foot of Mt. Wakakusa. It is also home to many of the city's most famous attractions including Kofuku-ji and Todai-ji temples, Kasuga Taisha shrine, the Nara National Museum, Wakakusa-yama Hill and the Kasuga-yama virgin forest. Visitors will also enjoy the roaming deer that inhabit the park. With its interesting combination of history, legend and nature, Nara Park is an exciting place to visit.

Nara National Museum

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 12:20:01 -0800

In a corner of Nara Park, visitors will find the Nara National Museum which offers an impressive collection of Buddhist art and is well known for its involvement in Buddhist research and study. The main exhibition, 'Masterpieces of Buddhist Art', features a large variety of pieces from the museum's permanent collection. In addition, properties kept in the Shosoin Treasure House are displayed in autumn each year. English tours are also available. This is the perfect place for those interested in the rich history of Buddhism in Japan.

Osaka Bay Area

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 09:20:14 -0800

The Bay Area in Osaka is well known as the waterfront amusement center and includes the expansive Tempozan Harbour Village, as well as the impressive Kaiyukan aquarium. The Bay Area is also home to the Maritime Museum at CosmoSquare and the WTC Cosmo Tower, the highest tower in western Japan. Catering to a variety of interests, there is something for all ages to enjoy in Osaka's Bay Area.

Osaka Castle

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 09:16:23 -0800

Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan's three great medieval warlords, began construction of Osaka Castle in 1583. Since that time, the castle has been badly damaged and required several reconstructions. A major renovation by Osaka City between 1995 and 1997 transformed the structure so that it could be preserved as Osaka's traditional symbol. The main tower houses a museum and the surrounding grounds contain interesting architectural features, beautiful green space, sports facilities and more.

The Mint Museum

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 09:12:34 -0800

The Mint Museum opened in 1971 in a building next to the head office of the Japan Mint , which was originally established by the Meiji government. The Japan Mint played an important role in the rise of modern industry and culture in Japan. Visitors to the Mint Museum can see a variety of both internationally and domestically collected coins and medals. The grounds are also crowded with visitors each spring when over 300 cherry trees are in bloom.

Dotonbori

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:38:18 -0800

Dotonbori is a famous entertainment, shopping and restaurant district running parallel to the Dontobori canal. Originally a built for river transportation, this area has developed into one of the most popular tourist destinations in Osaka and is known for its vast selection of delicious regional cuisine. Today, the crowded streets are illuminated by the bright neon signs of all the restaurants, shops and entertainments centers.

Electric Town

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 10:03:55 -0800

Akihabara, in central Tokyo, is a famous shopping district where one can find great deals on both new and second-hand electronics. It is also well known as a center for gaming, manga and animation culture which can be seen in the area's many 'cosplay cafes' and 'manga kissas'. Recently, the area around Akihabara Station has been revitalized with many new buildings. This area is truly a shopper's paradise and attracts visitors from all over Japan and the world.

Ueno Park

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 09:56:49 -0800

Ueno Park opened in 1873 and remains one of Tokyo's most popular sightseeing destinations. Located near Ueno Station, it features a variety of museums and interesting landmarks - including Shinobazu Pond and Ueno Zoo. The zoo, Japan's first zoological garden, has been one of the most famous attractions in the park since it welcomed the first panda bears, a gift from China, in 1972.

Tokyo Tower

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 09:34:26 -0800

Standing 333 meters tall, Tokyo Tower is the world's tallest self-supporting steel tower. This famous landmark is also home to 'Foot Town', a 4-story entertainment and shopping building under the tower. Visitors can enjoy a bird's eye view of the city from both the main and special observatories. In addition to serving as a popular tourist attraction, Tokyo Tower broadcasts television and radio signals for several Japanese media outlets.

Cosmo World

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 09:24:42 -0800

Cosmo World is an urban amusement park located across the water from Yokohama's downtown waterfront - Minato Mirai 21. This unique and high-tech park was designed to enhance the Minato Mirai skyline and is beautifully illuminated in the evening. Perfect for couples and families, there are a wide variety of rides and attractions for everyone! The main attraction is Cosmo Clock 21, one of the world's largest Ferris wheels. This amazing ride has 60 gondola-style cars which provide a safe place to take in views of the harbor and city.

Tram (Hiroshima Electric Railway)

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 11:36:14 -0800

Hiroshima is known for its extensive streetcar system as it is the last of its kind in Japan. Operated by Hiroden(Hiroshima Electric Railway Co., Ltd.), the efficient tram transportation system helped the city get back on its feet quickly after the atomic explosion. Today there are both antique and modern streetcars for visitors to ride. Most lines start and finish at JR Hiroshima Station and run frequently throughout the day and evening. There are even special passes available at Hiroden Ticket counters.

Peace Memorial Park

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 11:32:37 -0800

After the atomic blast on August 6, 1945, the city of Hiroshima decided to rebuild and created the Peace Memorial Park at ground zero. The park was constructed as a heartfelt appeal for world peace and the abolition of nuclear weapons. There are several important monuments and a ceremony is held every year on August 6th to remember the tragic event. The Peace Memorial Museum is also worth a visit as it contains exhibits outlining the events surrounding the blast, as well as graphic displays of the survivors and victims' experiences.

Atomic Bomb Dome

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 11:27:20 -0800

Atomic Bomb is dome is located at the north end of Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park. This famous landmark was the only building left standing within a one kilometer radius after the atomic blast of WWII. Originally built in 1915 by a Czech architect, this once beautiful dome was remains a vividly grim reminder to the world and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.

Chinatown

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 15:42:00 -0800

Located in the center of town, Yokohama's Chinatown is a bustling and exciting district filled with more than 500 shops and restaurants. This is Japan's largest Chinatown and one of the largest in the world. Originally, this district began as the residence of Chinese traders settling in Yokohama. While the number of residents has decreased in recent years, it is still an interesting place to experience a taste of China. Some of the attractions include the ten colourful gates that surround Yokohama Chinatown, the temple Kantei-byo and the eight-story Daska building which houses three floors of food stands selling many Chinese delicacies.

Yamashita Park

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 15:41:51 -0800

Since its' opening in 1930, Yamashita Park has been a popular leisure retreat on the Yokohama waterfront. It was originally built as a revitalization project after the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. This park stretches for about 1 kilometer and includes beautiful gardens, interesting statues and breathtaking views of the harbor and city. Visitors can also take a restaurant cruise or visit the former cruise ship, the "Hikawa Maru".

Tenjin Area

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 10:02:28 -0800

Located on the left bank of the Naka River is the Tenjin Area, Fukuoka's downtown core. This area is the largest business and shopping district on the island of Kyushu. There are three large department stores and many specialty shops offering a wide variety of goods. This is a must-see for visitors interested in shopping.

Yatai

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 09:59:23 -0800

'Yatai' are open-air food stalls serving traditional Japanese "fast food", such as yakitori, oden and ramen noodles. These stalls orignated in the 18th century and are an integral part of Fukuoka's nightlife. Today, there are almost 200 yatais serving delicious food and drinks along the Naka river and streets of the Nakasu and Tenjin districts.

Hakata Machiya Furusato Hall

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 09:46:48 -0800

Hakata Machiya Furusato Hall, found opposite the Kushida Shrine, is a small folk museum featuring the history, language and culture of the Hakata district in Fukuoka City. The museum has three parts - an exhibition ward, restored merchant's house and gift shop. For those interested in a unique, hands-on experience, this museum is the place to go!

Nagoya City Art Museum

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 10:49:57 -0800

The Nagoya City Art Museum is a rather modern looking building located in the picturesque Shirakawa Park in central Nagoya. It houses 2000 works of both Western and Japanese art, which are divided into four categories - Ecole de Paris, Mexico Renaissance, Local Artists and Contemporary Art. The museum strives to promote regional artistic and cultural accomplishments and, therefore, holds a weekly event called "Friday Night Theatre." Here, visitors can enjoy performances, video nights or concerts free of charge. Not only does this museum showcase a wide variety of art, the building, designed by Kisho Kurokawa, is also of architectural interest. Visitors should definitely put this museum on their list of things to do in Nagoya.

Oasis 21

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 10:45:34 -0800

Located in the heart of Sakae, Nagoya's shopping district, is Oasis 21 - a futuristic complex featuring green space, a bus terminal, restaurants and shops. This is an environmentally friendly structure that features a translucent roof, called 'Water Spaceship', which contains a shallow pool designed to reduce heat transfer in the park and shops below. The glass walkway around the pool and Midori-no-Daichi Park below are excellent spots to relax and enjoy the city. In the open space below the roof is a large square for special events, as well as 32 shops. Oasis 21 is a 'must-see' for visitors to Nagoya!

Nagoya Castle

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 10:39:43 -0800

Nagoya Castle is a major landmark in Nagoya and one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. Construction was completed in 1612 by Ieyasu Tokugawa, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Unfortunately, the castle was destroyed in WWII, but was rebuilt in 1959. The castle is famous for the two 'kinshachi' statues which adorn the tower roof. Today, visitors can visit the castle tower, stroll through Meijo-koen Park or experience some of the interesting festivals held at the castle throughout the year.

Mosaic

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:30:12 -0800

Located in Kobe's Harbour Land, Mosaic is a large shopping, dining and entertainment complex. Visitors will feel like they're in the Mediterranean as they stroll through the Roman-inspired open air mall. There is also a movie theatre and amusement park to enjoy. Mosaic is a fantastic place to have fun in Kobe!

Kitano Ijinkan Town

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:27:43 -0800

After Kobe's port was opened to foreigners in 1868 and their businesses thrived, immigrants began building homes in the Kitano area. This 'foreigner village' is known as 'Ijinkan' and is now a popular tourist attraction. Designed by foreign architects and built by Japanese tradesmen, more than 20 homes are open to the public. Each building is unique and definitely worth a visit!

Nankin-machi (Chinatown)

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:21:51 -0800

Nankin-Machi, in Kobe, is one of the three largest chinatowns in Japan. Originally a Chinese settlement, this area now covers about 4 city blocks and has over 100 shops and restaurants. Lively and colourful, it is a great place to celebrate Chinese New Year.

Susukino Area

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 10:58:32 -0800

Susukino is well known as the largest red-light district in Northern Japan. It encompasses 6 square blocks and was created by the local government in 1871 as a way to keep laborers in Sapporo for the purpose of pioneering Hokkaido. Full of bright neon signs, this lively and exciting area is packed with many different businesses - including bars, restaurants, clubs, karaoke, pachinko parlors and adult entertainment. It is famous for Ramen Yokocho - an alley full of delicious noodle shops, as well as spectacular ice sculptures during the Sapporo Snow festival.

Sapporo Factory

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 10:39:13 -0800

Opened in 1993, The Sapporo Factory is Japan's largest entertainment complex. This unique structure is built around the original Sapporo Brewery, one of the oldest buildings in the city. There is a 39m high, glass atrium that connects the Brewery building to a large complex of shops, offices, restaurants, multiple movie theaters, museums, galleries, amusement centers and even a day spa and hotel. One of the best restaurants is Bier Kellar Sapporo Kaitakushi - a 540 seat beer hall in a series of three brick tunnels.

The Clock Tower

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 10:23:34 -0800

The Clock tower in downtown Sapporo is a popular city landmark. Built in 1878 as a drill hall for the Agricultural College, it is not only one of the few surviving Western buildings, but it is the oldest standing building in Sapporo. While it was originally used for educational purposes, it now houses a museum about the Agricultural College and development of the city. Today, it is dwarfed by tall office buildings, but still continues to keep time and is a main feature on tours to Sapporo.

Jozenji Street

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 16:03:07 -0800

Jozenji-dori is a 700 meter, tree lined street in downtown Sendai. A popular scenic spot, it is loved by both locals and visitors. The beautiful zelkova trees are beautiful in any season, and throughout the year, the promenade is host to several festivals including the Aoba Festival, Tanabata Festival, Street Jazz Festival and Starlight Festival.

The Miyagi Museum of Art

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 15:58:35 -0800

Opened in 1981, The Miyagi Museum of Art features a large collection of modern art, including several works highlighting regional artists from Miyagi and the Tohoku area. The museum also collects Western art. The museum strives to create a 'hands on' experience for visitors by providing studio space for public use, as well as offering several workshops throughout the year.

Site of Aoba (Sendai) Castle

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 15:01:41 -0800

The remains of Aoba Castle are located on top of Mt. Aoba, near downtown Sendai. The original castle was built in 1601 by the feudal lord, Masamune Date. The castle served the Date family until 1868 and was torn down after the Meiji Restoration. What was left of the original structure was destroyed during WWII. Today, the area is a park and includes a Shrine, several monuments and a botanical garden.

How to wrap Onigiri

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 13:16:44 -0800

If you have been to 'Conbini'(convenience stores) in Japan, you would be amazed at a variety of snacks, lunch boxes, deli style sandwiches, buns, fine sweets and so on. 'Onigiri' (rice ball) is one of the most popular and the easiest to eat foods for lunch or a snack. How to wrap rice in dried seaweed is conveniently designed, though it is confusing for some people. Take a look at video and discover it is actually very easy!

Introduction of Asakusa

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 09:09:01 -0800

Asakusa Kannon Temple, also known as Sensoji Temple, is a popular tourist destination in Tokyo. One can get there easily by taking the JR Yamanote line to Ueno Station. At Ueno, you must then transfer to the Metro Ginza line and ride 3 stops to Asakusa Station. Once there, it is easy to spot the temple with its impressive Kaminari-mon, or Thunder Gate. Before you reach the temple's main hall, you will enter the Nakamise-dori - a street lined with over 90 different vendors selling local handicrafts and traditional snacks. This is a great chance to pick up some souvenirs and try some traditional sweets. At the end of the shopping arcade, is the temple's main gate. Here you will see a large pagoda to one side and Sensoji's main hall. You can also seek healing from the powerful incense smoke burning in front of the temple. In addition to the temple, there are other interesting sites to see, including the Asakusa shrine and the old fashioned amusement park - Hanayashiki.

Yuzawa in Winter

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 12:45:24 -0800

Easily accessible from Tokyo by 'Shinkansen' or by car, Yuzawa is well-known as the setting of Nobel-Prize-winning novel 'Yukiguni' written by Yasunari Kawabata. Yuzawa is one of the most famous winter sports destinations in Japan. From the huge Naeba resort to intimate family resorts, Yuzawa attracts a lot of skiers, snowboarders and other winter sports lovers. Take the world's longest gondola ride (5481 M), 'Doragondola', that connects Naeba and Tashiro ski resorts in a speedy 15 minutes while amazing views of snow covered mountains and valleys unfold above and beneath passengers. Onsen in Yuzawa have a long history and are also very popular. Hot springs are found in practically each of the 'ryokan' (Japanese style inns) and are also available in public hot spring baths, such as 'Yama-no-yu' and 'Komako-no-yu'. Soaking in the hot water will remove your fatigue from winter sports, helping you to feel relaxed and refreshed. At Ponshu-kan, located in the Echigo-Yuzawa station, try sake-tasting - five different brands are offered from 100 local sake wineries. Also, enjoy bathing in 'saka buro', a public bath that includes Japanese sake, reputed to be effective for beauty and relaxation.

Kagawa Shodoshima Island

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 09:48:46 -0800

Shodoshima,island of nature and olive trees

Kagawa Ritsurin Park

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 14:08:05 -0800

Ritsurin Park shows off the beauty of a Japanese formal garden.

Introduction of Kagawa Prefecture

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 10:43:52 -0800

Kagawa Prefecture is situated in the midst of Japan's first national park, the Seto Inland Sea National Park, in the northeastern part of Shikoku The northernmost area, the Sanuki Plain, lies along the Inland Sea, and the Sanuki Mountain Range forms the southern boundary of the prefecture. It is a pleasant place, warm and dry throughout the year, with long hours of sunshine that give it abundant beauty and a mild climate. We hope you'll come visit Kagawa Prefecture, blessed with a peaceful natural environment, warm and soothing traditional culture, flavorful cuisine for the discriminating, art created in harmony with nature, and wide variety of things to see.

Yuzawa in Summer

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 09:26:40 -0800

Easily accessible from Tokyo by 'Shinkansen' or by car, Yuzawa offers a variety of summer activities such as taking in splendid views of nature from the world's largest ropeway, as well as participating in a hands-on experience of making 'soba' (Japanese buckwheat noodles) and pottery. 'Fuji Rock Festival', Japan's premier music-fest is held every July, about 200 troupes of performers from home and abroad perform their music, attracting more than 100,000 fans during the festival. Not far from the festival site is a tree-lined boardwalk for wheelchair access called 'Independence Board Walk'. Anyone can join this ecologically friendly project by purchasing a wooden board for 1,000 yen which is added to a growing 1.4 kilometers of boardwalk. At Ponshu-kan located by the station, try sake-tasting which offers five brands from 100 local wineries.

Introduction of Onsen

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 09:25:29 -0800

Located all over Japan, onsens, or hot spring baths, are one of the best ways to experience authentic Japanese culture - one can sit on a tatami mat, eat local Japanese cuisine and unwind in the public bath. Onsens are often found at ryokans, traditional Japanese inns. While staying at a ryokan, guests can relax in either an indoor bath or outdoor 'roten-buro'. Roten-buro are a great way to take in the local landscape in any season. Onsen are separated by sex, and it is important to wash your hair and body before entering the bath. After enjoying the bath, guests will have a set dinner served in a large dining room or in their room. The next day, a set breakfast will also be served in the dining room. Make your trip to Japan more memorable by staying at a ryokan and enjoying an onsen!