WAttention Malaysia Vol. 27

Malaysia Edition

Tokyo - Singapore - L.A - Taiwan - Thailand - Paris - Hong Kong - Indonesia - Mexico - Australia

TA K E FREE

Winter 2019 VOL.27

PP18029/03/2013 (033318)

Discover Niigata, �険の�まり Let’s go!

Enter the snow kingdom of Tohoku

Winter Adventures in Nagano

Love Japan? Follow

WAttention

Snowy Hokkaido adventure at Chitose City

VOL.27

EXPLORE NIIGATA YOUR 2019 BUCKET LIST 03

In Harmony with the Seasons

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Discover Niigata, Let’s go!

A plethora of winter activities for all!

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Enter the snow kingdom of Tohoku Winter Adventures in Nagano Embark on a snowy Hokkaido adventure at Chitose City NHK World JAPAN video on demand review On my watchlist

Publisher

Shuji Ozawa FLP YOMIKO Malaysia Sdn Bhd 100.02.043, 129 Offices, Block J, Jaya One. No.72A, Jalan Universiti, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Malaysia Tel: +603 9544 3938 E-mail: yasui@flp-yomiko.com

Editor in Chief Kunio Yasui

Japan & Singapore Editorial Team Naoki Kiyota / Ayako Miyazaki Chew Yan Qiao / Eric Voon Yuka Suzuki / Kenji Ishida

Photographer

Hajime Watanabe

Partners

WAttention Co., Ltd, WAon Pte Ltd

Cover Photo

Shioritoge Unkai, Uonuma City, Niigata

Advertising inquiry in Malaysia

Aim Nat ................. Graphic Designer Ken Chin ................ Co-ordinator

Japan Representive

Tel: +81-3-6418-5701 Fax: +81-3-6862-6760 E-mail: info-tokyo@wattention.com

WAttention is a publication of FLP YOMIKO Malaysia Sdn Bhd. All articles published are in good faith and based on bonafide information available to The Publisher at the time of press. The Publisher accepts no responsibility other than that stipulated by law.

The Publisher also accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or other materials. All rights are reserved and no part of this publication may be reproduced in part or full without the previous written permission of The Publisher. Neither can any part be stored or recorded, by any means. The opinions expressed in The Publication are those of the contributors and not necessarily endorsed by The Publisher.

This publication and the name are owned solely by FLP YOMIKO Malaysia Sdn Bhd, 100.02.043, 129 Offices, Block J, Jaya One., No.72A, Jalan Universiti, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Malaysia, e-mail: yasui@flp-yomiko.com WAttention is published quarterly and distributed throughout Malaysia.

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暦 Koyomi 31 DEC

こよみを楽しむ

IN HARMONY WITH THE SEASONS

To s h i k o s h i S o b a 年越し蕎麦

text & coordination/ Rieko Ido, photo/ Hajime Watanabe 文とスタイリング:井戸理恵子、写真:渡辺肇

The tradition of eating soba on the last day of the year - 31 Dec, also called omisoka - has been around in Japan since the mid-18th century, or the mid-Edo era. This came to be known as toshikoshi soba, or year-crossing soba. Eating soba right before the new year is meant to symbolize cutting off or puting an end to all bad events that happened within the year, hence the choice of soba, as it can be easily cut by chopsticks. On the other hand, the fact that it is long and thin is meant to symbolize longevity and a sustained prosperity for the family.

In addition, the soba plant also embodies resilience and sturdiness as it survives even in cold climates and recovers quickly from damage by wind and rain with just a little sunlight, plus, it is known to be good for cleansing the blood and lowering blood pressure, hence it is said that eating soba helps to clean the body from the inside to welcome the new year.

soba flour to gather all the gold dust that had gathered within the year off the tatami mat, and this association between soba and wealth accumulation made toshikoshi soba popular.

There is another interesting saying that goldsmiths in the Edo era would, on the last day of the year, use a ball made from

A graduate of Kokugakuin University, researcher of ancient Japanese customs and knowledge, conducting technical analysis on findings to apply them to modern lifestyles.

Currently teaches at Tama Art University.

Rieko Ido

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Awashima Hachimanbana Observatory

DISCOVER

NIIGATA

Awashima Diving Experience

�険の�まり

L e t ’s g o

Nagaoka Festical \ Provided by Nagaoka Fireworks Foundation

Shinano River rafting \ Provided by Tokamachi Tourism Association

Located in the center of Japan’s Honshu Island, Niigata is packed

Ways of transportation to Niigata Prefecture：

Niigata Airport

From Tokyo ─

it is best known as Japan’s premiere

The easiest way to get to Niigata is to hop on a Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo Station. This route only takes 100 minutes and is covered by the JR East Pass. Once you purchase the flexible 5-day JR East Pass (Nagano, Niigata area), you have a 14-day period to use it.

rice-cultivation area and home to

Niigata official website: http://enjoyniigata.com/en/index.html

with natural, historical and cultural wonders. Blessed with rich natural resources and a favorable climate,

Murakami· Shibata area

Sado Airport

the world-famous Koshihikari rice.

Sado area

Niigata Station

Tsubame-Sanjo Station

Nagaoka · Kashiwazaki area

Nagaoka Station

Yahiko· Sanjo area

With its vibrant and fascinating landscape, Niigata is the place to be

Urasa Station

if you’re looking to enjoy abundant nature and outdoor activities!

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Joetsumyoko Station EchigoYuzawa Station

Itoigawa Station Hokuriku Shinkansen Line

Myoko · Joetsu area

Niigata · Aga area

GALA Yuzawa Station

Niigata Prefecture Map

Yuzawa · Uonuma area

Joetsu Shinkansen Line

\Yuzawa•Uonuma, Uonuma City/

JR Tadami Line

Crossing a Dreamy Sanctuary

This line passes through the secluded mountainous areas in Tohoku, which connects Niigata and Fukushima. Its mystic atmosphere has attracted countless train and photography enthusiasts. As the train passes through Uonuma City, keep a look out for the Koshihikari rice fields and Abukumagawa Dam in the valleys. *Trains are no longer operating between Tadami and AizuKawaguchi stations. Visitors can take a shuttle bus instead.

The stops between Koide Station and Oshirakawa Station are within Niigata Prefecture. The JR Tadami Line also stops at Aizu-Wakamatsu.

Web: www.iine-uonuma.jp/see/tadamisen.html (Japanese)

Excite your Five Senses onboard this Sightseeing Train

Selected works from a photography contest held in Uonuma City

Selected works from a photography contest held in Uonuma City

Be captivated by the Scenic Landscapes of Niigata

Behold a Cascading Sea of Clouds \Yuzawa•Uonuma, Uonuma City/

Shioritoge Unkai Begin your hiking trail at Shioritoge leading to Mt. Echigo-Komagatake, one of Japan’s 100 most famous mountains. Stop by the observation deck along highway 532 in the early mornings to catch a breathtaking view. —On good days, you will see a vista of cascading clouds over towering mountains when you look towards Ginzandaira and Oku-tadami. *Toge means the highest point of a mountain trail Web: www.iine-uonuma.jp/ (Japanese)

\Myoko•Joetsu, Myoko City/

Setsugekka This cardinal red train not only showcases a panoramic view of Niigata’s countryside, but also the prefecture’s proud craftsmanship.

Boasting “all made in NIIGATA,” passengers can appreciate the artistry of this locallymade train, and taste the goodness of local produce onboard. Enjoy all of Niigata’s charms fully by booking a ride!

Recommended viewing points of Lake Okutadami

Mountain Trail Mt. EchigoKomagatake

Web: www.echigotokimeki.co.jp/ setsugekka/index.html (Japanese) *Reservation required, only via phone call.

Ginzandaira Oze

Lake Okutadami

\Yuzawa•Uonuma, Tokamachi City/

Onsen-exclusive Local Cuisine \Myoko•Joetsu, Myoko City/

Red Yakisoba Don’t be fooled by the red color of Akakura Onsen’s specialty yakisoba noodles. Though they look spicy, the noodles get their hue from fresh vegetables, not red chili. A definite musttry for hungry visitors of Myoko City!

About 10 restaurants within Akakura Onsen serve this dish.

Web: www.myoko.tv/shopping/1422.html (Japanese)

Hoshitoge Rice Terraces Featured in Tenchijin, a famous historical drama in Japan, the photogenic Hoshitoge Rice Terrace in the mountains of Niigata rose to fame. During spring and autumn, visitors are treated to a gorgeous view of the rural landscape with glistening rice fields and misty forests. If you are lucky, you might even catch a sighting of unkai rolling over the rice fields in the early mornings.

The Ultimate Countryside Experience

*A sea of clouds or unkai is formed only under certain weather conditions during spring and autumn mornings.

Access: 20-minute drive from Matsudai Station on the Hokuhoku Line Web: www.tokamachishikankou.jp/en/

Courtesy of Tokamachi City Tourism Association Matsudai Branch

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Thundering Waterfalls resembling Earthquakes \Myoko•Joetsu, Myoko City/

Naena Waterfalls Famous for its thunderous roars of water crashing down from a 55-meter-tall basalt cliff, the Naena Waterfall has been nicknamed “Earthquake Falls.” This natural wonder is recognized as one of Japan’s 100 greatest waterfalls. On a sunny day, you may get to see an arching rainbow reaching out through sprays of cool water.

Access: 15-minute drive from Myoko Kogen Station on the Echigo-tokimeki Tetsudo Web: https://myokotourism.com/naena-falls/

A Treasure Trove of Natural Wonders in the City

\Niigata•Aga, Niigata City/

Fukushimagata Lagoon

Fjord-like Steep Cliffs \Sado•Sado City/

Home to more than 220 species of wild birds and 350 flora, this extensive wetland is the largest in Niigata Prefecture. During spring, rapeseed flowers are in full bloom.

In summer, the makhana–a species of water lily–steals the spotlight by decorating the lagoon with vivid greens. Escape the busy city with a trip down here!

Senkakuwan Bay Known for its meandering gorges and steep cliffs, Sotokaifu-kaigan in Sado is surrounded by stunning tower cliffs reminiscent of Norwegian fjords. Admire the amazing view from above or hop on a cruise to get a closer look at the magnificent structures while also appreciating the underwater beauty through a glass panel at the base of the boat.

Access: 30-minute walk or 5-minute drive from Toyosaka Station on JR Hakushinsen Web: www.pavc.ne.jp/~hishikui/ index.html (Japanese)

Access: 60-minute drive from Ryotsu Port or 1-minute walk from Senkakuwan Ageshima Park (Kaifu Line) bus stop Web: www.visitsado.com/en/spot/detail0144/

\Niigata•Aga, Niigata City/

Niigata Tare Katsu Don

A Local Favorite of Niigata

Unlike the typical Katsu Don—which uses egg as a topping, this local delight includes fried pork cutlets dipped in a special sauce before being placed on warm fluffy rice. This dish first appeared during the early Showa period at a western restaurant. The sweet soy sauce is absolutely tantalizing!

Many restaurants in the Niigata Prefecture have this dish on their menu.

Web: www.niigata-kankou.or.jp/sys/data?page-id=12370 (Japanese)

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\Sado•Sado City/

Onogame Dubbed as the secret garden of Sado, Onogame is a 167-meter high rock formation located on the northern coast of Sotokaifu-kaigan. Awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan, the picturesque landscape receives many visitors. During summer, bright, yellow licorice flowers carpet the area providing a beautiful contrast against the blue sky and green grass.

Access: 60-minute drive from Ryotsu Port or 1-minute walk from Onogame ( Uchi Kaifu Line) bus stop Web: www.visitsado.com/en/spot/detail0133/

Take a ride on the Longest River in Japan \Yuzawa•Uonuma, Tokamachi City/

Shinano River Rafting Sign up for an unforgettable rafting adventure full of shrills, big splashes and thrilling bumps along the longest river in Japan! The river flows through Tokamachi City before feeding into the Sea of Japan in Niigata Prefecture. While you are here, make sure to take a good dip in the river too!

Event period: mid-Apr to 28 Oct Fee: 6,000 JPY (Elementary school students), 8,000JPY (Middle school students and above) Address: 4197 Miyanaka, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture Web: www.tokamachishikankou.jp/sports/other/rafting/ (Japanese)

Traditional Japanese River Fishing

Shinano River rafting Provided by Tokamachi Tourism Association

\Niigata•Aga, Agamachi/

Mikawa Yanaba Try catching a meal with your bare hands using yana (やな, fish trap), a traditional Japanese fishing platform made of method which comprises bamboo reeds that are laid across a river. Observe how small fishes swim through the gaps, while bigger ones get caught in between the crevices. Grill the fish right away and taste the freshness of Niigata instantly!

Explore the different charms of Niigata

A Peak into a Copper Artisan’s Studio

Event period: 8 Apr – 7 Nov Access: 7-minute bus ride from Mikawa Station on JR Banetsusai Line Address: 2598 Ikazawa, Higashikanbaragun Agamachi Web: http://hotel.mikawa.com/tourism.html (Japanese)

\Yahiko•Sanjo, Tsubame City/

Gyokusendo

Outdoor Seaside Activities in Niigata \Murakami•Shibata Awashimaura Village/

Awashima With a small population of less than 400 people, Awashima is an island touted as a natural oceanic paradise, offering not just incredibly fresh seafood, but also various fun activities like fishing, water sports, cycling and bird watching. If you are looking for the perfect summer getaway, look no further!

Access: Take a boat from Iwafune Port to Awashima Port (55-minute ride on high-speed catamaran Awaline and 90-minute by boat) Web: https://awa-isle.jp/ (Japanese)

Well-known for its metal-processing industry, Tsubame City is the birthplace to Gyokusendo, a major copper craftsmanship studio with over 200 years of history. Get a glimpse of how professionals work there, as artists tirelessly hammer and shape copper into elegant cups, vases and kettles—all by hand.

Hours: 8:30am-5:30pm, Closed on Sun & PH Factory tour: 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm and 3:10pm Access: 3-minute walk from Tsubame Station on Yahiko Line or 5-minute drive from Tsubame Sanjo Station Web: www.gyokusendo.com (Japanese)

\Yuzawa•Uonuma, Tokamachi City/

Soba served in a Traditional Wooden Dish When in Niigata, you cannot afford to miss the chance to savor one their local delicacies — Hegisoba. Served on a wooden dish, the noodles are sectioned into bite-sized portions. Hegisoba has a smoother and firmer texture compared to ordinary soba.

Many restaurants in Tokamachi City have this dish on their menu.

Web: www.niigata-kankou.or.jp/sys/ data?page-id=15117&noicon=1 (Japanese)

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Tsumari in Bloom by Yayoi Kusama ( Japan) Photographed byOsamu Nakamura

Festival: Culture, Art and Tradition in the Rural Landscapes of Niigata

Reverse City by Pascale Marthine Tayou (Cameroon / Belgium) Photographed by Osamu Nakamura

\Yuzawa•Uonuma Tokamachi City, Tsunanmachi/

Make it a point to catch this triennial showcase of colorful artwork inspired by nature and the local culture. Some 380 pieces will be displayed around the farmlands, turning the area into a treasure trove of art. Witness how innovative these artists can be and see how they cleverly blend their art pieces into the local scenery!

Incorporating Art into the Countryside

Event period: 29 Jul – 17 Sep Web: www.echigo-tsumari.jp/eng/about/

\Nagaoka•Kashiwazaki, Nagaoka City/

Koshinoyuki With a history of 230 years of making traditional Japanese sweets , Koshinoyuki Honpo Yamatoya Honten’s delicious treats do not disappoint. The incredibly soft Koshinoyuki is made from locally-produced sticky rice powder and wasabon sugar from Shikoku.

The sweets were once a delicacy saved only for feudal lords in the past, but now they are a common gift for special occasions.

Hachi & Seizo Tashima Museum of Picture Book Art by Seizo Tashima ( Japan) Photographed by Takenori Miyamoto + Hiromi Seno

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Koshinoyuki Honpo Yamatoya Honten Hours: 9am-5:30pm Access: 15-minute walk from Nagaoka Station on JR Joetsu Line, Joetsu Shinkansen, Shinetsu Main Line Address: 3-3 Yanagaharamachi, Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture Web: www.koshinoyuki-yamatoya.co.jp/index.html (Japanese)

Kiss & Goodbye (Doichi station) by Jimmy Liao (Taiwan) Photographed by Gentaro Ishizuka

Echigo Tsumari Art Festival 2018

The Top Three Traditional Sweets of Japan

Nagaoka Festical \ Provided by Nagaoka Fireworks Foundation

Spectacular Fireworks Lighting up the Night \Nagaoka•Kashiwazaki, Nagaoka City/

Nagaoka Grand Fireworks Festival Ranked as one of Japan’s top three fireworks displays, the Nagaoka Grand Fireworks Festival launches about 20,000 fireworks over a two-day period.

The beautiful sparks light up the night sky, completely transforming the city’s atmosphere. During this time, locals also mourn for the deceased, thus making it a more meaningful event.

Event period: 2-3 Aug every year (Nagaoka Peace Festival falls on 1 Aug) Access: 30-minute walk from Nagaoka Station on JR Joetsu Line, Joetsu Shinkansen, Shinetsu Main Line Web: https://nagaokamatsuri.com/ (Japanese)

\Murakami•Shibata, Shibata City/

Goldfish Floats Parade exclusively during Summer

Castle Town Shibata Festival For over 280 years, the Goldfish Float parade has been one of the most important summer events in Shibata City. Join the festivities as children pull goldfish floats and men jovially march the daiwa (台輪 , portable shrine) around the town on the last day of the festival.

Event period: 17-29 Aug Web: http://sibata-info.jp/ archives/3311 (Japanese) content to be updated soon

\Murakami•Shibata, Sekikawa Village/

Echigosekikawa Great Serpent Festival Since 1988, it has been a customary practice for the locals to parade through the town with a locallymade, 80-meter-long, bamboo straw serpent weighing over 2,000 kilograms to warn others against the dangers of flood waters. On this occasion, about 500 residents gather together to carry the snake before coiling it up at the village office.

Enormous Straw Snake Parading through the Town

Event period: 26 Aug (The fireworks display and Bon Odori festival are held on 25 Aug) Hours: [snake parade] 9:30am-12pm [fukumaki] see the snake coil up after the parade at Sekikawa Village Office Web: www.niigata-kankou.or.jp/sys/data?page-id=2222 (Japanese)

\Murakami•Shibata, Shibata City/

Poppoyaki

Mouth-watering Street Food

A hundred years ago, the locals created Poppoyaki by mixing brown sugar with flour on a stick. Served only during festivals, it got its name from the popping noises during the baking process. The sweet fragrance paired with the chewy texture makes it irresistible!

Can only be eaten during festive event of Shibata city and other nearby cities Web: www.niigata-kankou.or.jp/sys/data?page-id=12373 (Japanese)

A plethora of winter activities for all!

Enter the snow kingdom of Tohoku Covered in the thick snowfall of Tohoku, the vast expanse of white stretching as far as the eye can see is a familiar sight to anyone who has experienced the harsh winters of northern Honshu.

Many travellers looking to experience the gorgeous sights in store for them make their way to this region every year to enjoy the fluffy white snow and winter activities.

Step into the snow kingdom of Tohoku and discover its charms for yourself!

Enjoy the sights of nature in powder snow paradise Appi Kogen Located in Iwate Prefecture, Appi Kogen is definitely high in the running – if not the best – when it comes to skiing. Wide slopes make it perfect for beginners, and with 21 courses available, intermediate and advanced skiiers will certainly find something suitable for their level. Famous for its extremely fine and light snow, Appi Kogen has earned its nickname “The 40 degree latitude powder paradise”.

But there’s more to the area than just skiing. Visitors can also strap on a pair of snowshoes and trek through guided courses through forests right next to Appi Grand Hotel. Wandering through the wilderness here is an exhilarating experience. At times, snowfall is so deep that it can even reach up to your knees. As you pass through the snowcovered paths while admiring the gorgeous white birch trees, try figuring out which animal the tracks belong to. Your trekking guide will also lead you to roll through the thick snow, get covered in falling snow from tree branches, and even slide down snow slides. Much like an outdoor classroom, you will get to learn all sorts of things about Mother Nature and even discover things you have never noticed before.

Driving Snow buggy

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Aside from trekking through the forest in your snowshoes, you can even sign up for a session of star gazing. Get on a snowbike and you will be led to a specific location where you can enjoy gorgeous views of the stars at night―a thoroughly romantic experience not to be missed! If it gets too cold out, you can even warm yourselves up with a delectable cheese hot pot inside the snow huts stationed in the vicinity. Enough of observing the skies? Feel free to hop on a snowbike and go on a ride to see more of the area. While the skiing is still the number one draw, the place also provides all sorts of wintertime entertainment.

Winter activities in Appi: www.appi-japan.com/winter/ Hotel Appi Grand: www.appi-japan.com/resort-info/ hotel-appi-grand.html

Try Snow rafting

Fun snowshoe hike

Cheese fondue in Kamakura

A session of star gazing

Urabandai, Fukushima: Another great destination for winter fun!

Similar to the Appi Kogen region in winter, the Urabandai area is a wonderland of powder snow, where one can enjoy a myriad of winter activities besides skiing and snowboarding. After a major volcanic eruption of Mt. Bandai in the past, a beautiful crater lake formed ― Lake Hibara. Experience snowmobiling on the frozen lake, or wakasagi smelt ice fishing! Put on your snow shoes and trek through other surrounding attractions including the Goshikinuma trail, or maple-beech forests where you can admire giant beech trees that are over 300 years old. The frozen waterfall “Yellow Fall”, is also a popular spot nearby.

Blue Fall

Snowmobiling

Yellow Fall

Fried Wakasagi

Wakasagi Fishing

Urabandai Tourism Official Website: www.urabandai-inf.com/?page_id=25649

Three Famous Snow Monsters Don’t fret! Japan doesn’t have any abominable snowmen; just beautiful, amazing frost covered trees known colloquially as “snow monsters” scattered throughout the Tohoku region.

Mt. Hakkoda

Aomori “Mt. Hakkoda” Aomori-shi

Yamagata “Zao” Yamagata-Shi

Akita “Mt. Moriyoshi” Kitaakita-shi

A skiier’s paradise, Mt. Hakkoda in Aomori is a great getaway for those looking to experience some of the best slopes that Japan has. Riding down the hills with gorgeous snow monsters lining the way is something any winter sports enthusiast will surely treasure.

Mt. Hakkoda is easily accessible by ropeway.

The snow monsters in Zao, Yamagata feature beautiful illumination, amplifying their luminescence and splendor, shining silver during the day and full of other colors gleaming in the darkness at night. You can take the ropeway and the gondola to reach the top of the mountain from Zao Onsen.

Just a quick walk from the top of the Ani gondola, Mt. Moriyoshi in Akita boasts a plethora of breathtaking Maries’ firs, glistening with frost as beautiful snow monsters. Come lose yourself in this amazing winter wonderland.

60-min ride from JR Aomori Station or JR ShinAomori Station Bus Stop to Hakkoda Ropeway Base Station

Zao

Mt. Moriyoshi

45-min bus ride from JR Yamagata Station to Zao Onsen

100-min ride from Kakunodate Station until Mt. Moriyoshi Ani Ski Resort

The Kamakura culture of Akita-ken An important traditional aspect of the region, Kamakura in the Tohoku refer to snow huts, differing in sizes and construction. Akita Prefecture alone is home to three different types of festivals that celebrate the culture of these little snow domiciles. In Northern Tohoku, the Rokugo Kamakura Festival where bamboo pole fights are held, is known as one of Japan’s more dangerous “bizarre festivals.” Located inland in the Northern Tohoku lies Kakunodate town. Considered to be one of Japan’s “little Kyoto”, you can observe the Hiburi Kamakura Festival with participants all riled up, swinging fireballs made from straw in gigantic rings around themselves. This act is a symbol of prayer for good health.

The kinds of Kamakura that most people are familiar with can be seen in Yokote City, which is also home to a Kamakura festival that has

been practiced for over 450 years. During ancient times, the people of the region would build their snow huts close to wells, making offerings to water deities. Children in the past also used to play near these areas. Presently, these Kamakuras are home to shrines. Visitors are allowed to make supplications there, and children can go into the snow huts to drink delicious amazake (甘酒 , a sweet non-alcoholic rice drink) and eat yakimochi (焼 , roasted sticky rice cakes). After seeing how much the lives of the locals are built around the Kamakura, one can’t help but acknowledge its divine presence and respect the Japanese people’s appreciation for the surrounding nature.

Kakunodate’s Hiburi Kamakura

Akita Tourism Official Website: www.akitafan. com/en Yokote Kamakura Matsuri

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Quality

powder Snow

Editor’s Pick

Togakushi Ski Area

Winter A DV E N T U R E S Nagano

Enjoy a powder snow paradise to the fullest with the ski slopes of Togakushi, home to the legendary Togakushi Ninja. Skiers of all levels from beginners to experts will find a course suitable for them, but the unique “Ninja Slope” filled with ninja-themed

in

elements remains a favourite.

9am - 4.30pm (lift for 2 or 4 persons), 8.30am - 4.45pm (other lifts) from JR Nagano Station

60 min by bus

3682-3 Togakushi,

Nagano-shi

The mountainous regions of Nagano turn into a snowy landscape upon winter, offering picturesque sceneries, heart-warming cuisine and unique hands-on experiences for all.

FOOD

Azumaya

CULTURE

Zenkoji Temple Main hall

This age-old Buddhist temple has drawn generations of visitors for more than 1,400 years from all over the world. It is said that Japan’s oldest Buddhist statue is enshrined here―deemed an especially sacred asset, this “Secret Buddha” is kept away from the eyes of the public.

Zenkoji Temple The temple grounds can be viewed 15 min by bus from JR Nagano Station, get

This hidden gem tucked away at an alley near Zenkoji Temple serves up exquisite threetiered Bento (弁当, lunch boxes) featuring a range of mouth-watering locally delights.

Indulge in a luxurious dining experience without burning a hole in your pocket!

Lunch 11am - 2pm, Dinner 5pm - 10pm Closed Sun

5-min walk from Zenkoji Temple

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491 Motoyoshi-cho, Nagano, Nagano-shi

Galerie Ren

10am - 5pm Closed Tue

ACTIVITY

Daikanjin Temple

Seson-in Shakado Temple Daihongan Temple

Galerie Ren

Higashi-machi, Nagano-shi

off at Zenkoji Daimon bus stop and walk another 5 min

Town

ⒸZenkoji Temple

ZEnkoji temple

all day.

Explore the

Build your original kaleidoscope at this stylish handicraft workshop affiliated with Byakurenbō Temple. Choose from their wide selection of adorable little ornaments in all sorts of shapes and colours and simply insert them into a clear tube. Look through the eyepiece and admire by your very own masterpiece!

Kaleidoscope-making experience 2,160 yen (including materials)

JR Nagano Station, get off at Zenkoji Daimon bus stop and walk another 4 min

15 min by bus from

465 Motoyoshi-cho, Nagano-shi

Yawataya Isogoro Main Shop Azumaya Patio Daimon Kuraniwa

10min on foot

↓ Nagano station

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七条大滝

Shichijo Otaki It’s time to put on your snowshoes and set off on a once-in-a-lifetime journey! Get ready for an ankle-deep snow hike to see the magnificent frozen waterfalls of Shichijō Ōtaki. A breathtaking experience during the cold winter, these massive ice pillars are truly a marvel of nature.

Web: https://en.activityjapan.com/publish/ plan/11181

Embark on a snowy Hokkaido adventure at

Chitose City

From natural wonders to unique local festivals, Chitose and its surrounding areas are brimming with amazing sights, waiting for the curious traveller to explore.

Lake Shikotsu

New Chitose Airport 新千歳空港

支笏湖

支笏湖氷瀑まつり

Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival Held in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, visitors can admire majestic ice sculptures made from the exceptionally clear frozen waters of Lake Shikotsu. When night falls, the structures will be illuminated with a myriad of colours, transforming the landscape into a fantasy-like wonderland.

Web: www.1000sai-chitose.or.jp/icefes.html (Japanese only) 25 January to 17 February, 2019 (9am – 10pm, illumination starts 4.30pm – 10pm)

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Lake Shikotsu The second deepest and largest caldera lake in Japan, the tranquil waters of Lake Shikotsu will rejuvenate your mind and soul. Surrounded by beautiful mountains with unparalleled views, the area offers unique sites such as the Yacho-no-Mori bird sanctuary in addition to the nearby camping grounds.

Web: www.japan.travel/en/spot/2158/

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Tax Free

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Happy Coupon

Get your tax-free procedure done at any of the 37 tax-

Scan this QR code for a

free counters, open from 10am to 8pm daily. Simply

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flash your passport and receipt to receive your tax refund, valid for same-day purchases only.

*Applies to selected items only.

AEON Hokkaido

Your one-stop department store! treats t e e o y sw okkaid

From seasonal foods to local delights, healthcare and beauty products, AEON Hokkaido offers a wide selection to fit your every need.

Must-tr EON H from A

Calbee Potato Chip (Konbu Salt / Oden Crab) 84 Yen

Saborino 1,404 Yen

Coca Cola Clear 86 Yen

White Mask 648 Yen

Pure Gummy 118 Yen

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Saviour the flavours of Hokkaido at the various restaurants and food court.

Jel Ball 3D 429 Yen

Free Wi-Fi

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40 stores

all over Hokkaido

Wi-Fi connection is available at 12 branches of AEON Hokkaido

Check our website for more info

http://welcome-aeon-hokkaido.jp/en/

Reviewer

YW Lam

NHK WORLD-JAPAN offers free-to-view programs that introduce lesser known sights in Japan as well as informative educational shows. Aside from English, a total of eight other languages are available, making the programs accessible to people from all around the world.

J-Trip Plan

Island Hopping in Japan’s “Mediterranean” Duration: 28 mins

Currently based in the Golden State of California, YW holds a double degree in Journalism and Public Relations and has been active as an editor/copywriter for three years. Her favourite destinations in Japan include Hakodate (Hokkaido), Kobe (Hyogo) and Kamikochi (Nagano).

Revere in the magic and mystery of Japan’s Mediterranean Blessed with temperate climate, gentle warm waters and a plethora of delicious produce, Japan’s “Mediterranean” is the focus of this episode of J-Trip Plan. Our host ’s journey kicks off in Hiroshima, which I recently visited in April this year, on board an exclusively chartered yacht! The first stop of the day, Miyajima, is a sacred island home to the enormous Torii Gate and ‘floating’ shrine. I can still recall approaching the island on board a ferry, feeling a sense of marvel wash over me as we got closer to the gate.

After a soothing cruise around the area, we follow our host as she looks for food. Amongst the variety of seafood, oysters pulled from Hiroshima’s waters are my absolute favourite as I remember them to be succulent and extremely sweet.

During high tide, both the shrine and torii gate appear to float on the sea.

Feline lovers will enjoy interacting with the large cat population in Onomichi!

Traverse the many unique islands of the Kasaoka Archipelago.

Watch this episode now!

Available till 30 April 2019

Yet another shared experience I had with our host was exploring the local shopping streets, or shotengai ( 商店街 ) of Onomichi. With decor harking back to olden-day Japan, it is not hard to see why one can spend hours wandering from store to store in the area.

I was also delighted that the program introduced Senko-ji Temple (千 光寺 ) and its incredible view, a landmark that I did not manage to visit during my trip. Aside from the usual ways of seeing and photographing the spectacular views of the isles and inland sea, the program even showcases some extravagant ways to appreciate nature, including taking seaplanes!

Perfect for travelers who want to try island hopping but don’t know where to start, this is THE show that has everything you need to know and more.

Train Cruise

Heartbeat of a Northern Land Duration: 45 mins

On track to stunning views and mouthwatering delicacies in Hokkaido For many people who have visited Japan, the northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido is considered their best-loved part of the country and for good reason. With its bounty of good food, gorgeous sightseeing spots and tons of fun outdoor activities, Hokkaido is a dream come true. The program opens in Hakodate, my favourite part of Hokkaido thus far, that is home to one of the world’s most acclaimed night views.

Watching our host journey on board the local train to Onuma Quasi National Park, one of the highlights during my own trip, I felt myself wishing I was back there breathing in the fresh air and longing to embark on the same adventure as he was.

Having always wanted to try out train travel in Japan, this program provided plenty of insights and answers to the queries I had. So if you’re looking to plan a train trip like I am, don’t forget to add this video to your playlist!

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Admire the jaw-dropping view of Mount Komagatake even from the comfort of the train.

Watch this episode now!

Available till 4 Aug 2019 For more information, go to

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