BOUTIQUE JTB

01/12/2023

Yoshinogari Hikari no Hibiki

The Yayoi period (500 BC-300 AD) saw the beginning of rice cultivation in Japan and the country’s first large settlements. As such, it can be said to be the point at which Japanese culture began.
The Yayoi remains at Yoshinogari span three towns and villages in Saga Prefecture and are the most extensive in Japan. For visitors, it offers the opportunity to see a Yayoi village in its entirety and the changes that took place over a 700-year period. The extremely valuable artifacts that have been unearthed at the site, as well as an abundance of information, reveals how early Japanese history took shape.
The site bears a close resemblance to the land of Yamatai described in Wajinden, passages in a Chinese history chronicle that are the oldest written record of Japan. Yoshinogari has been designated a special historic site.
On the first three weekends of December, colorful illuminations and open flames will light up Yoshinogari’s restored moated settlement in an event known as Yoshinogari Hikari no Hibiki, or “echoes of light.”
The main site will be decorated with thousands of paper lanterns illuminated by candles, creating a magical spectacle. Viewed from the top of the watchtower, the lanterns appear as one huge geoglyph painted with candlelight. Adding to the excitement will be the burners of hot air balloons moored at night.

※All images are copyrighted by Saga Prefecture Tourism Federation

https://www.yoshinogari.jp/en/

30/11/2023

Kunenan

Recognized nationally as a place of scenic beauty, Kunenan was built during the Meiji period (1868-1912) as a holiday villa and gardens for Saga business magnate Itami Yataro.
“Kunen” means “nine years” and denotes the number of years it took for the garden to be completed. The grounds contain a variety of shrubs and trees, including azaleas and Japanese maples.
The gradually changing colors of autumn are highlighted by the many subtle shades of red. At this time of year, the garden and the surrounding mountains blend into one, creating an otherworldly beauty. The contrast with the deep green moss that carpets the grounds is also quite spectacular.
Although Kunenan is usually closed to the public, the garden was open for nine days this autumn, from November 15 to 23. This opportunity to savor the beauty of Saga in the fall was not wasted.

※All images are copyrighted by Saga Prefecture Tourism Federation

https://www.saga-tripgenius.com/tourism_search/archives/8

29/11/2023

Ureshino Attaka (Warmth) Festival

Ureshino Festival of Warmth - A winter tradition in this hot spring town
During the winter nights, the streets of this popular hot spring town are lit up with the warm glow of traditional lanterns.
From late January through early February each year, a fascinating array of lanterns can be found throughout Ureshino. There are many types to enjoy, including some 100 lanterns displaying haiku chosen by the public that line the main shopping street, rare ceramic lanterns at Toyotamahime Shrine, and lanterns displaying etegami (stylized hand-drawn postcards) at Ureshino Onsen Park.
There is also the celebrated onsen yudofu (hot spring tofu) to savor and, held mostly on the weekends, presentations of traditional performing arts. This winter, head to Ureshino Onsen—there is no place better in Japan to escape the cold.

https://www.saga-tripgenius.com/tourism_search/archives/197

28/11/2023

Luxury Suites Highlight Local Industries and Promote SDGs

Chagokoro no Yado Warakuen, a celebrated hot spring ryokan in the Saga Prefecture city of Ureshino, has opened five luxurious suites that highlight industries and culture unique to the city, while promoting sustainable development goals (SDGs) such as “utilization of regional tourism resources” and “revitalization of regional economies.”

The décor, furnishings and utensils of all five suites have been deliberately selected to draw attention to local industries and producers, encouraging guests to venture into the city to learn more.

Ureshino is famous for its Hizen Yoshida pottery. Through mosaics, artworks, wall hangings and bathtubs, the suites make full use of this pottery, as well as the shards that account for 10 percent of waste during production. Tea is another high quality product associated with Ureshino. The tea utensils in the rooms have been especially chosen by local farmers who grow the tea, while the private hot spring baths can be infused with tea by adding a tea bath pack.

Each room is unique and each is named after a phase of the moon. Hazy Moon contrasts Japanese and Western elements to create a remarkable space decorated with Hizen Yoshida pottery shard art. As well as a large indoor bath, there are two open-air baths, one in the shape of a teacup. New Moon, which makes use of color tones inspired by the new moon, also has an indoor bath and two open-air baths, one decorated with peonies. Crescent Moon, which has a large indoor bath, incorporates Western elements to create a fun environment, while Half Moon, which looks out over a traditional garden, doubles as a home theater complete with a 130-inch screen. Full Moon is as much a gallery as a luxurious guestroom, with gorgeous views of the garden and one whole wall hung with 31 hand-painted Hizen Yoshida plates.

27/11/2023

Arita Ceramics Autumn Festival

Arita, a town in Saga Prefecture known globally for its fine porcelain, held its 19th Arita Ceramics Autumn Festival from November 22 to 26. As well as a wide array of pottery items on offer, special displays were held at six wood-fired kilns that are usually closed to the public. Kimonos were available to rent and wear, and there were numerous fun events to take part in. Moreover, the town’s restaurants and cafes offered special fall festival menus. The backdrop to all this was the gorgeous colors of autumn. Next fall, add Arita to your calendar; you won’t be disappointed.

https://www.saga-tripgenius.com/tourism_search/archives/205

※All images are copyrighted by Saga Prefecture Tourism Federation

16/03/2023

HOTEL INDIGO INUYAMA URAKUEN GARDEN
Immerse Yourself in the Magic of Inuyama

Step back in time and explore the many curiosities and unspoken beauty of historic Inuyama.

Here, you’ll discover a different way of life as you immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Urakuen Garden, the site of the teahouse and designated National Treasure, Joan.

Your journey will begin with incredible views of the Kiso River and the historic Inuyama Castle.
Known for cormorant fishing, a traditional method using trained birds, the river is rich with history.
During your stay, we'll awaken your senses with curated art and creative culinary experiences
that keep you intrigued and immersed in the local culture.
Relax in the quiet of the garden or stimulate your senses with design elements inspired by the raw energy of the Inuyama festival? The choice is yours.

Junichi

01/03/2023

Looking for a truly remarkable experience in Nikko? Then check out our new itinerary, which combines elegant accommodation with Okunikko’s great outdoors.

Some 30 minutes by car from central Nikko in Tochigi Prefecture, the Okunikko area is known for its seclusion and beauty. As well as marveling at the spectacular World Heritage Site of Nikko Toshogu, immerse yourself in nature with soul-cleansing culture experiences.

These only-in-Nikko opportunities include a tour of the city’s World Heritage Sites with a priest who has completed daisendogyo, a rigorous religious exercise, and participation in the esoteric Buddhist ritual of Goma Kito, which is held in a space off-limits to the general public.

For itinerary details and inquiries, click on the link below.
https://www.jtbgmt.com/luxury/travel_style/detail/24

※All images are copyrighted by 日光DMO



#日光 #奥日光

22/02/2023

Live Calligraphy Performance

For foreign visitors to Japan, Tea Ceremony, Kimono Wearing and Samurai Experiences are very popular.
Another Famous and Popular activity is calligraphy, which is not only a hands-on experience, but also performance by artist.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NaA4JR6qxw0

She is not only a calligrapher, but also an artist.
In the video, she drew the combination of cherry blossoms and calligraphy.
What a wonderful performance it would be to add Mt.Fuji

I hope you will enjoy her performance when you come to Japan.
If you are at all interested, please feel free to contact us.

Junichi



#桜 #富士山 #ライブパフォーマンス #書道 #書 #太田真采世

27/01/2023

Karatsu Kunchi Festival

https://www.saga-tripgenius.com/tourism_search/archives/95

Today, we’d like to introduce Karatsu Kunchi, Saga’s quintessential autumn festival.

Karatsu Kunchi is held at Karatsu Shrine from November 2 to 4 each year. Visitors cannot help but be inspired by the 14 spectacular Hikiyama floats that parade through the streets of Karatsu, which still retains the ambience of a castle town, the encouraging shouts of “enya” and “yoisa” and the strength of the hikiko, who pull the floats along.

The event has been designated as an important intangible folk cultural asset. In 2016, it was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage as one of 33 “Yama Hoko Yatai” (general term for festival floats) events nationwide. Each of the Hikiyama floats is about seven meters in height, weighs two to three tons and represents an enormous lacquerware work of art that glimmers red, green and gold.

On the final day, the 14 floats are pulled one by one into the Hikiyama Exhibition Hall, located to the west of Karatsu Shrine. When not is use, the floats are on public display, so be sure to visit the hall even if you miss the festival. (The floats are temporarily housed in Furusato Hall Arpino due to renovations at Hikiyama Exhibition Hall.)

※All images are copyrighted by Saga Prefecture Tourism Federation

26/01/2023

Saga International Balloon Fiesta

https://www.saga-tripgenius.com/tourism_search/archives/31

Enjoy the sight of colorful hot air balloons floating in the sky.

Held each year from late October to early November on the flood plain of Kase River in Saga is Asia's largest international hot air balloon tournament. The event has been held since 1980 and today over 100 hot air balloons take part.

With sufficient space for hot air balloons to take off and land, stable air currents and winds moving in various directions, the Kase River flood plain is the perfect venue for international ballooning meets. Saga’s ideal winds have become famous among balloonists around the world. The tournament is held early in the morning and in the evening when the air currents are stable, but during the day fun-shaped balloons are on display that add to the excitement of the event. In the evening, the La Montgolfier Nocturne event offers the magical sight of moored balloons being lit up by the flames of their burners.

※All images are copyrighted by Saga Prefecture Tourism Federation



＃sky

25/01/2023

Mifuneyama Rakuen

https://www.saga-tripgenius.com/tourism_search/archives/166

Another recommended place to visit in Saga is Mifuneyama Rakuen, where seasonal changes bring stunning scenery.

Mifuneyama in the city of Takeo is also known as Tosenyama because its appearance resembles a Chinese ship (tosen).

For spectacular floral displays, visit in late March, when the blossom of 2,000 cherry trees vividly contrast with the spring greenery of Mifuneyama's sheer cliffs, or from mid-April to early May, when the flowers of some 200,000 azaleas cover the entire garden like a multicolored carpet.

In summer, the park becomes a fantastic world of light, nature and art while in fall the park’s autumn color illuminations are as beautiful as they are grand. Mifuneyama Rakuen is truly a park for all seasons.

※All images are copyrighted by Saga Prefecture Tourism Federation

24/01/2023

Cherry Blossom at Ogi Park

https://www.saga-tripgenius.com/tourism_search/archives/71

Cherry blossom viewing is a must if you're visiting Japan in the spring.

Ogi Park is a famous traditional garden developed by Motoshige Nabeshima, the first Ogi lord of the Ogi domain, and Naoyoshi, the second Ogi lord. The park is beautiful throughout the year but spring, when the cherry trees blossom, is not to be missed. During the season, when about 3,000 cherry trees are in full bloom, the park is bustling with visitors from all over Japan. Spend time strolling around the large park grounds through rows of cherry trees to discover ponds, gardens and shrines, all of which are well worth seeing.

Ogi Park is the only place in Saga Prefecture ranked as one of Japan's top 100 cherry blossom sites. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through this expansive park while appreciating the beauty of the blossoms. The best time to see cherry blossoms is usually between late March and early April.

※All images are copyrighted by Saga Prefecture Tourism Federation

23/01/2023

Saga Castle Town Hina Doll Festival


https://www.saga-tripgenius.com/tourism_search/archives/81

The New Year is upon us once again. Since Japan opened its borders in October last year, overseas visitors have been pouring into the country. This year, we recommended a visit to Saga, where there’s so much more to see and do.

Hinamatsuri is an annual doll festival held to pray for the good health of girls. A custom among families with girls is to decorate their homes on March 3 with hina dolls.

Saga, which prospered as a feudal castle town, holds a Hinamatsuri each spring in which the hina dolls that once belonged to the wives of feudal lords go on show. Visit the Chokokan museum to see two large hinadan, tiered stands for hina dolls measuring over five meters in length, and exquisitely crafted hina dolls.

Also a must-see is a special exhibition of incense paraphernalia that have been in the Nabeshima family for centuries. Enjoy the beauty of artistic skills unique to Saga as well as the aesthetics of the museum building itself.

Exhibition date: February 11 to March 21, 2023

30/10/2022

PIGMENT TOKYO

We have introduced Tennozu Isle, where our office is located, on this page several times.This time, I would like to introduce a wonderful place for art lovers.
PIGMENT TOKYO is a comprehensive facility for creativity specializing in painting materials, with shops, laboratories, and workshops in Tennozu Isle. They pursue "art materials" and "expression of colors and materials" created from them.
The painting materials and tools which have been used in many historical paintings and contemporary artworks are available here, and also, the store is a beautiful place to look around.
Art workshops are held as well so it may be a good opportunity to learn about Japanese culture.
*Workshop with an interpreter is not held now, but we can arrange a guide so please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Below is the website of PIGMENT TOKYO for your reference.
https://pigment.tokyo/?set_language=en
Please feel free to contact us if you would like to visit PIGMENT TOKYO.

Ann & Junichi



#ピグモン #ピグモン東京 #天王洲アイル #隈研吾 #寺田倉庫 's

13/10/2022

~Getaway Tips at Okinawa in the Winter~

Here are some getaway tips to enjoy your time in Okinawa in the winter.

1, Rest your eyes and mind on the vast clear water spreading before you.
You will feel the magnificence of the ocean and forget your worries.

2, The sound of waves is your music as you drive on the coastline.

3, Immerse yourself in Okinawa culture with hands on experience of shisa(a creature that is believed to ward off evil spirits) making, Ryukyu glass making, learning to play the shamisen(Japanese traditional instrument), etc.

4, It’s not just the beach! There are cultural theme parks, aquarium which is known as the best in Japan, and various parks and markets to enjoy fresh fruit, drinks and Okinawa cuisine.

Above are just a few examples.
How about spending your time enjoying the culture of Okinawa this winter?
It is bound to be a relaxing and intriguing getaway from your daily life.

Anne

03/10/2022

Takayama Festival in Autumn will be held for the first time in 3 years!


For the past 2 years, a lot of the festivals (matsuri) in Japan were sadly canceled due to the COVID-19.However, this year, they are finally coming back! Gion Festival in Kyoto was held in July, Nebuta Festival in Aomori was held in August, and now it’s time for Takayama Festival.

Takayama Festival is held 2 times a year, April 14th to15th in Spring and October 9th to 10th in Autumn. It is one of the three most beautiful festivals in Japan, and is also designated as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. While there are many different kinds of festivals in Japan, Takayama Matsuri belongs to the float festival, in which traditional floats called yatai parade through the town. In the evening, each of the floats will have some 100 lanterns and create a beautiful nightscape.

Although the festival will be downsized compared to usual years, it’s a great pleasure that the excitement of matsuri is coming back. Stay tuned for the returning of the festivals throughout Japan!

by Kiki


#高山祭 #高山 #祭り

21/09/2022

Japan Autumn Foliage Forecast 2022

The summer heat is starting to ease and we are having cooler days now…it is starting to feel like fall, and one of my favorite things about fall is the beautiful colored leaves! The first bunch of forecast for this year’s Autumn Foliage is out now, and if you are planning your trip to Japan in the fall, the gorgeous autumn colors are must-see. You can enjoy them all around Japan, and the peak depends on the region. Ask us for recommended destinations and the best times!
Or, for those of you who have visited before…where was your favorite?

by Roo

Check out below for “2022 Autumn Foliage Forecast (1st forecast)”
(Japan Meteorological Corporation)
https://n-kishou.com/corp/news-contents/autumn/?lang=en




#紅葉 #秋 #日本

14/09/2022

SUMO, National Japanese Sports

Sumo Tournament starts in Tokyo from last Sunday, 11st/September.
Sumo Tournament will be held every odd month, half of tournaments will be held in Tokyo and the rest tournaments will be held in Osaka, Nagoya and Fukuoka.

Official Youtube Tunnel, "SUMO PRIME TIME" released last month, so please have a look to enjoy and learn about Sumo.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zBMZwIJ9UhY&t=1s

by Junichi



#大相撲 #相撲 #両国 #国技館 #逸ノ城 #照ノ富士

This is “SUMO PRIME TIME”, Japan Sumo Association’s official English YouTube channel.It introduces many fascinating aspects of sumo by taking a closer look a...