View the autumn colors at Nikko World Heritage site – Rinnoji Temple’s Japanese garden, “Shoyoen”

29.October.2017 | SPOT

A light-up event will be held at “Shoyoen,” the Japanese garden inside the temple grounds of Rinnoji Temple which is a World Heritage site located in Nikko. This event will be held between October 25th (Wed.)~November 15th (Wed.). In addition, for the 3 days, November 3rd (Fri. & national holiday) to the 5th (Sun.), another light-up event titled “Light-Up Nikko 2017” will be held at “Taiyuin.” Various buildings and surroundings will be lit-up so visitors can enjoy the autumn colors by walking all the way from Niomon Gate to the “haiden” (praying hall).

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The Japanese garden, Shoyoen is a very popular autumn color spot in Nikko. The garden with an area of 3,200 square meters was constructed next to Rinnoji Temple over 1250 years ago. It is a representative Japanese garden built in the Edo period. It was made so that visitors can enjoy the garden by walking around the pond.

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As a special event during this season the event titled, “Shoyoen / Daiyuin × “light” × “sound” Fantasy Scroll” will be held. Various classical Japanese instruments will be played including a koto performance by prominent koto player, Fumiko Kazuhisa.

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Furthermore, shinobue and shakuhachi performances will take place inviting you to a mysterious world. In addition to the events, “Shoyoen light-up” and “Light-up Nikko 2017,” at the honden and Taiyuin a “goshuin” with a red seal confirming a night temple visit will be issued.

 

Why not go to Nikko and enjoy a very special autumn evening.

 

■Information

Shoyoen Light-up

Duration: October 25th (Wed.) ~ Nov. 15th (Wed.)

Hours: 17:00~20:00(Mid-Oct.) 16:00~20:00(Mid-Nov.) 16:00~21:00(Nov. 3rd, 4th, 5th) *entrance will be allowed until 30 minutes before closure

Venue: Nikko Rinnoji Temple Shoyoen Garden

Entrance fee:500 yen *Houmotsuden entrance fee is separate * Daytime entrance fee will not cover night time entrance fee *elementary and junior high students accompanied with adults and children under school age are free

Shoyoen and Houmotsuden website: http://rinnoji.or.jp/precincts/houmotsuden

Taiyuin Light-up

Duration: November 3rd (Fri. & national holiday) ~ Nov. 5th (Sun.)

Hours: 16:00~21:00 *entrance will be allowed until 30 minutes before closure

Venue: Taiyuin, Rinnoji, Nikko

Entrance fee:550 yen / child (elementary and jr. high) 250 yen

Shuttle bus: Sanbutsudo ⇔ Taiyuin  free bus service

Nov. 3rd to Nov. 5th (shuttle bus service on an as-needed basis)

Taiyuin website:http://rinnoji.or.jp/precincts/taiyuin

 

 

Sanbutsudo (Three Buddha Hall) night visit – issuance of a gold letter “goshuin”

Duration: Oct. 25 ~ Oct. 31st 17:00~20:00

          Nov. 1st ~ Nov. 15th 16:00~20:00

          Nov. 3rd ~ Nov. 5th 16:00~21:00 (only during Light-up Nikko event)

          *this “goshuin” will not be issued at times other than specified above.

Venue: Sanbutsudo, Rinnoji, Nikko

Issuance fee: 500 yen

Visitation fee: free (During light-up period special front entrance visit will be allowed)

Sanbutsudo website: http://rinnoji.or.jp/precincts/sanbutsudo

Taiyuin – Night visit – issuance of a gold letter “goshuin”

Duration: Nov. 3rd ~ Nov. 5th 16:00~21:00 (only during Light-up Nikko event)

*this “goshuin” will not be issued at times other than specified above.

Venue: Taiyuin, Rinnoji, Nikko

Issuance fee: 500 yen

Visitation fee: adults – 500yen / Child (elementary and jr. high) 250 yen

Shoyoen / Daiyuin × “light” × “sound” Fantasy Scroll

Oct. 28th (Sat.) 29th (Sun.)  17:30 (light-up)

Nov. 3rd (Fri. & national holiday) Nov. 4th (Sat.) 14:00 (daytime) 17:00 (light-up)

Nov. 5th (Sun.) 14:00 (daytime)

Venue: Shoyoen Garden, Rinnoji, Nikko

Entrance fee: free *entrance fee to the garden is necessary

     Daytime – adult 300 yen / child (elementary and jr. high) 100 yen (includes fee to Homotsuden)

Light-up – Adult 500 yen / Child (under jr. high) free

<Taiyuin concert>

Time: Nov. 3rd (Fri. national holiday), 4th (Sat.) 5th (Sun.) 18:30 (light-up)

Venue: Taiyuin, Rinnoji, Nikko

Entrance fee: free  *entrance fee to Taiyuin is necessary

              Adult – 550 yen Child – 250 yen

Performers:

Koto – Miwako Waku

Koto – Tomoyo Maekawa

Shinobue & Nokan – Yoshihiro Karino

Shakuhachi – Chikuzan Fukuda

*Depending on weather conditions the time and the content of the concert may be changed without notice

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    <NAKED Yorusampo™ -Tomioka->

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    <Tomioka Silk Fantasia

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    DE DE MOUSE

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    −How did you become interested in the shakuhachi? 

    My father loved the shakuhachi, and because of that, I grew up surrounded by the sound of it. That’s how it all began!

     

    −What attracts you to playing the shakuhachi?

    I love the timbre of the shakuhachi. 

    Those who play the shakuhachi often say that a single note has the power to bring someone to enlightenment. 

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     −You’ve performed in many different countries. Do you get different reactions to the shakuhachi in other countries when compared to Japanese audiences?

    I have a vivid memory of a time I performed a classical shakuhachi piece solo. This particular type of classical music is called ‘wabi-sabi,’ and it isn’t very loud or lively. 

    In Japan, when I finish a performance, people usually clap. But when I performed in South America, as soon as the piece concluded, there was a standing ovation with people shouting “Bravo!” That would never happen in Japan, and it left such a lasting impression on me.

     

    −Are there any countries that have left a lasting impression on you, or that you would like to visit in the future?

    I have good memories of every country I’ve visited, but I think that Cuba left the biggest impression. I just made me think about how incredible music can be.

    I’d love to visit Bulgaria, Morocco, Armenia, Uganda…it’s tough, because I want to visit every country I haven’t been to yet. (laughs)

     

    −You’re from Hashimoto City, near Mount Koya. How did you feel when you heard that this concert would be held so close to your hometown?

    What I felt was pure joy.

    Personally, I’ve always loved Mount Koya, and I went there many times as a child. It’s such a pleasure to be able to perform there.

     

    −Tell us some of your favorite memories involving Mount Koya.

    I go to Mount Koya at least three or four times a year. It’s not a particular memory per se, but every time I go, I love to eat vegetarian food, explore, and buy wheat buns and sesame tofu as gifts to take home.

     

    −Are there any local foods or places that you’d recommend?

    The fruit is delicious in Wakayama, and my hometown is famous for persimmons.They are so yummy, and I just want everyone to try them!

    Mount Koya and Kumano Kodo are both World Heritage sites, and they are both absolutely breathtaking. Other than those, I’d recommend Adventure World! It has adorable pandas roaming around freely and the most wonderful dolphin shows. Everyone from around the country should visit!

     

    −Finally, do you have a message for Moshi Moshi Nippon readers?

    Japan is filled with incredible places and culture. The shakuhachi, a beloved traditional Japanese instrument, is one piece of that culture.

    I want audiences around the world to hear the sound of the shakuhachi and to make it more familiar. If you have a chance to hear it, I hope you will.

    Be sure to follow Yoshimi Tsujimoto’s activities going forward as she shares the beauty and culture of shakuhachi with the world.

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    Date: October 22, 2022, 13:30
    Venue: Danjo-garan Buddhist Temple

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    [Part 2] Talk Session

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    Yoshimi Tsujimoto (Shakuhachi player)

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    Performer: Yoshimi Tsujimoto (Shakuhachi player)

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    <About the Call for Visitors>

    350 Guests are Invited!

    *If there are too many applicants, a drawing will be held.

    *Livestreaming of the event will also be available online.

     

    Application Period: August 23 – September 26, 2022

     *Postcards must be postmarked by September 26. Those applying n the website must do so by 23:59 on September 26.

     

    How to Apply:

    1. By postcard

    Address: Yamabutai Concert Section
    Wakayama Broadcasting Co.
    3-3 Minatohonmachi
    Wakayama, 〒640-8577

    What to Include: Zip Code, Address, Name, Age, Phone Number, Admission
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         2. On the special website

    Please apply using the application form on the special website.

    URL: https://yume.wbs.co.jp/

     

    Keep in Mind:

    1. Incomplete entries will be considered invalid.

    2. Only one application per person is allowed.

    3. If there are too many applicants, a drawing will be held. Winners will be announced when numbered tickets are sent out.

    4. Personal information provided in each application will not be used for any purpose.

     

    (For Reference) Past Performers

    2015 – Hitomi Shimatani (Danjo-garan Buddhist Temple)

    2016 – Chitose Hajime (Kumano-Nachi Taisha)

    2017 – *Canceled due to typhoon.

    2018 – Kumiko (Oyunohara)

    2019 – May J. (Kumano-Nachi Taisha)

    2020 – *Canceled due to the ongoing pandemic.

    2021 – Yuki Koyanagi (Kumano-Nachi Taisha)

     

    ■Cast Profiles

    ◆ Hougen Yabu / Director of Head Temple Kongobu-ji on Mount Koya

    ・1993 – Graduates from Koyasan University

    ・In 2011, he became the chief priest of Kirihata Temple, where he remains to this day.

            *Kirihata Temple [Fukuoka Prefecture] / Sasaguri 88 Sacred Sites, #10

    ・In 2021, he became the Director of Head Temple Kongobu-ji on Mount Koya and was also appointed as the director of the 1,250th birthday celebration for Kobo Daishi, the founder of the Buddhist sect.

    ◆ Yoshimi Tsujimoto / Shakuhachi Player

    ・Born in Hashimoto, Wakayama Prefecture in 1987.

    ・Graduating from Tokyo University of the Arts, she has attracted media attention since she was a student, and has been active in a number of fields from traditional Japanese music to pop.

    ・She has been invited to perform around the world, from the U.S. to Italy.

      (Overseas tours: 33 cites in 24 countries, 53 total performances)

    ・In 2015, her cover of a song using traditional Japanese instruments went viral.

     She began her solo project Bamboo Flute Orchestra to share the beauty of Japanese traditional instruments with people around the world.

    ・In 2016, she made her major debut as the first-ever female solo shakuhachi player.

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    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/1RP4RcpJwMrFzoYQbnfDYm?si=f1f1e816adb14db0

     

    Odawara, Kanagawa Prefecture / Miyuki no Hama x Powerless, Seiren

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    ZOWA: https://zowa.app/play/20016
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/5DkQ9FeM7jQBacUf7Nbuxc?si=c7d771e73ddd44b6

     

     

    Shizuoka, Shizuoka Prefecture / Wasabi Field x baker, On the silent hill

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    ZOWA: https://zowa.app/play/20017
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/0oIU4x7MjVKmpouRwEPaXZ?si=04dcb805cea540b7

     

    Ibusuki, Kagoshima Prefecture / Cape Tara x SeA0, Akushu

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    ZOWA: https://zowa.app/play/20018
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/1Utz5j0oB4GmSDOMVdUcXU?si=eafa1949b3ea44d0

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    30.March.2022 | SPOT

    The Banyan Tree Rooftop Bar, located at Hoshino Resort Risonare Kohamajima on Japan’s southernmost island, is holding a special stargazing event until April 20, 2022. Visitors can enjoy a cocktail as they gaze at the countless twinkling stars overhead.

     

    Kohama Island is located within the Yaeyama Islands. With a warm climate, it’s comfortable to spend long hours outside, even at night. Kohamajima was also the first island in Japan to be protected by the IDA (International Darkness Association), meaning that no bright manmade lights can interfere with stargazing. Visitors can see 84 of 88 constellations! 

     

    Enjoy a Boundless Starry Sky

    The Banyan Tree Terrace will bring guests together to feel the sea breeze and taste colorful mojitos as they enjoy the pleasant weather. Why not spend a relaxing time in a fantastic space lit with faintly glowing candles as you stargaze?

     

    Taste Colorful Mojitos

    A limited number of colorful mojitos will be available at a bar counter set up on the terrace for this event only. You can also enjoy Okinawan original mojitos with made with Okinawa lime, brown sugar instead of sugar, non-alcoholic mojitos for children, and tropical fruit mojitos with pineapple and passion fruit.

     

    Munch on Snacks Perfect to Pair with Cocktails

    Guests can also enjoy a snack set with salty nuts perfect for enjoying with alcohol!

  • Kyary Pamyu Pamyu Collaborates with Popular Shimane Manju for LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project

    18.March.2022 | FOOD / MUSIC / SPOT

    Celebrating the 10th anniversary of her major label debut, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu is staying active in 2022. In conjunction with the nationwide tour, the “LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project” was launched to energize Japan through the appeal of regional towns and cities, and has been attracting major attention. Kyary’s tour made it to Shimane on March 12, and the details of her next collaboration have been revealed!

    Kyary will be teaming up with Nakaura Foods and their delicious local delicacy Dojou Sukui Manju. Known as the representative treat of the San’in region, the name is a reference to the mask worn during local performances of the Yasugibushi folk song. The steamed buns were developed by Nakaura Foods in 1967 and have been loved by locals ever since. In the 2000s, the company began experimenting with new flavors by teaming up with other local creators.

     

    The company’s logo is being reimagined for the project, inspired by Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s 2013 Furisodeshon music video. 

    The name of the popular product has also been changed to Kyary Sukui Manju! Each box has a pop design and would make a perfect souvenir for Kyary fans.

    A collaborative T-shirt is also on sale featuring the new logo and the singer’s 10th-anniversary logo. A special LINE collaboration is also underway, and 50 people who order the new Kyary-themed treats from the official Nakaura Foods online store will be entered to win a shirt!

  • Booking.com Reveals 4 Best Lodgings with Outdoor Baths for Snow Viewing

    16.March.2022 | SPOT

    Booking.com Japan has revealed its top four picks for the Japanese accommodations with the best outdoor baths and snow views! 

     

    Zao Kokusai Hotel (Zao Onsen, Yamagata Prefecture)

    Located 900 meters above sea level and surrounded by the gorgeous natural beauty of the Zao mountains, this resort has long been renowned for its spectacular view of seasonal scenery. During winter, guests can enjoy a fully spring-fed open-air bath while gazing at the snow-capped mountains. The milky white waters of the Zao Hot Springs have high sulfur content which will improve the texture of your skin. The resort also has a bath large enough to accommodate up to seven people at a time and a private bath for families or lovers. 

     

    Midorinokaze Resort Kitayuzawa (Date, Hokkaido)

    The Midorinokaze Resort Kitayuzawa is surrounded by nature and contains one of the largest open-air baths in Japan, along with 20 unique fragrant baths for guests to enjoy. In winter, the surrounding trees seem to glisten with snow, and visitors are sure to find plenty of peace and relaxation while lounging beneath the grey skies. 

     

    Akakura Kanko Hotel (Myoko, Niigata Prefecture)

    This highland resort sits on a 1,000-meter peak, offering unmatched views of Niigata Prefecture. The natural hot spring flows from the inside of Mt. Myoko, with healing waters perfect for soaking in during the cold winter months. The large baths are also equipped with a sauna and deck, and those wanting to view the scenery from their room can enjoy guest accommodations with private baths as well!

     

     

    Satoyama Jujo (Minamiuonuma, Niigata Prefecture)

    Winning a design award for its facilities, Satoyama Jujo has a different feel when compared to most hotels and ryokan. Booking.com recommends it for travelers looking for new experiences! In the open-air bath, visitors can relax while enjoying a panoramic view of Mt. Makihata, one of Japan’s 100 most famous peaks. Guests can also enjoy the starry skies at night. This is a perfect location for couples!

     

    Each season in Japan offers uniquely beautiful scenery. How would you like to enjoy winter in one of these luxurious baths?

  • Three Japanese Tourism Instagram Accounts to Follow for Travel Inspiration

    07.March.2022 | SPOT

    The pandemic has changed our lives forever. People have spent the last two years missing travel as they spend more and more time at home, and while many are ready to travel again, it can be difficult to know if it’s the right time to return to normalcy. To make the situation a little easier, many local tourism associations in Japan are posting images on Instagram to inspire people to give traveling another try. These three Instagram accounts are our personal favorites, and once Japan opens to tourists again, you won’t want to miss visiting these areas!

     

    [Official Kumamoto Tourism Association] Motto, motto, Kumamoto!

     

    Instagramでこのプロフィールを見る

     

    もっと、もーっと!くまもっと。【熊本県観光公式】(@kumamotto.official) • Instagram写真と動画

     

    Discover the charms of Kumamoto on this local Instagram account featuring photos from four unique local photographers. Many will know the area as the home of the character Kumamon. The images capture the daily lives of Kumamoto residents and include local food and gorgeous scenery. The postings also include the location of the photo and comments from the photographers, making things feel more personal. 

     

    [Official Hokkaido Tourism Association] GoodDay Hokkaido

     

    Instagramでこのプロフィールを見る

     

    GoodDay北海道(@goodday_hokkaido) • Instagram写真と動画

     

    Hokkaido is an area rich in gourmet seafood and dairy, but its spectacular landscapes are reason enough to visit. GoodDay Hokkaido shows off both the common and uncommon elements of Hokkaido life, often introducing little-known areas. Each photo is vividly colored, and followers can see different seasons at every time of day as they scroll through the feed. See the best images from Japan’s northernmost island each and every day on your smartphone!

     

    [Ome / Okutama] Umetama

     

    Instagramでこのプロフィールを見る

     

    うめたま|OME&OKUTAMA TOKYO(@umetama.official) • Instagram写真と動画

     

    Umetama is an account that introduces places of interest in Ome and Okutama, two of Tokyo’s most scenic towns. Each can be reached in about an hour by train from Shinjuku Station. Visitors can enjoy a gorgeous day trip from the Tokyo center, with the area featuring plenty of campsites and hiking trails. There are tons of stargazing spots, and visitors are often surprised that such incredible nature is so close to Japan’s hectic capital. Those with kids will find plenty to do here, so start taking notes while you scroll through the Umetama page!

     

    More and more young people are finding the appeal of Ome and Okutama, and the area has become the perfect relaxation spot for those seeking refuge from their busy lives. In addition, the craft beer bar Ome Beer, located near Ome Station, sells local alcohol, including Okutama’s popular craft beer ‘Vertere.’ See the lesser-known side of Tokyo on this picturesque account. 

     

    Remember how wonderful it is to travel? Hopefully, Japan opens for tourism again soon, and you can visit all of these gorgeous locales.

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