◆◆Organization of Kansai Unity, Newsletter "Kansai, the Essence of Japan" Vol. 20 (2011/3/10)◆◆

◆◆Organization of Kansai Unity, Newsletter “Kansai, the Essence of Japan” Vol. 20 (2011/3/10)◆◆

This newsletter is distributed by the Organization of Kansai Unity to introduce various must-see tourist attractions of the Kansai region in Japan. 　

http://www.kansai-japan.net/en/

Contents:
◆ Introduction to Kyoto Higashiyama Hanatouro 2011
◆ Introduction to “Must-See Sites” in Fukui Prefecture, by foreigners living in Kansai
◆ Introduction to the Korean version of the Japanese comic series, “Eki-ben Hitori Tabi” 　
◆ Interesting information: Recommendation from among the “Best 100 Cherry Blossom Sites in Japan,” selected by the Japan Cherry Blossom Association

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◆ Latest Information: Introduction to Kyoto Higashiyama Hanatouro 2011　-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kyoto Hanatouro (Lanterns and Flower Lane) is an event that started in March 2003 in the Higashiyama area as a signature night event of the 21st century in Kyoto, in an effort to create a new tourism resource with a lighting theme. In the event area, historic and cultural heritages, such as famous temples and shrines, as well as quaint streets are delicately illuminated by exotic Japanese lanterns and decorated by ikebana flower arrangements. Enjoy a stroll through beautifully lit alleys to feel the bright, festive mood.
http://www.hanatouro.jp/index.html (Japanese)
http://www.hanatouro.jp/e/index.html (English)
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◆ Kansai Guide by Foreigners Living in Kansai: Fukui Prefecture
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Kansai sightseeing spots recommended by foreigners living in Kansai
Sightseeing spots introduced here are recommended by Li Jin, a Chinese coordinator for international relations living in Fukui Prefecture.

Fukui’s Cherished Treasure: Journey to enjoy rich nature and mind-soothing experiences at an old temple
Eiheiji Temple (Reihoku region, Fukui Pref.)
Eiheiji Temple is one of the two head temples of the Soto Sect of Zen Buddhism. Founded in 1244 by Priest Dogen, this famous temple has a long relationship with Tiantong Temple in Ningbo City, China. I visited Eiheiji Temple in the fall foliage season by joining a tour mentioned on the website of Fukui Prefectural Tourism Federation, featuring shojin-ryori (Japanese temple cuisine) and a hands-on experience at the temple. In the tour, I fully enjoyed myself in the timeless atmosphere of relaxation and tranquility at the temple. I imagined shojin-ryori as something similar to su zhai (Chinese vegetarian cuisine), however, I found that the shojin dishes using local foods were not only healthy, but also delicious for both the eyes and tastebuds.
After enjoying shojin-ryori in the Monzen-cho area, we visited Eiheiji Temple. At the temple, we had a tour guided by a priest through the temple’s seven buildings along the hill, and also had a zazen meditation experience. The meditation lasted for about 15 minutes; it was not too long or too shortjust the right length for me to feel refreshed in mind and body. While I was touring the temple, I came across an afternoon ritual being conducted in front of the giant grinding pestle, which can seldom be seen. I felt that the ritual represented the essence of the instructions for the tenzo (the chief cook in charge of meals at a temple), which requires that meals be prepared with great care. At Eiheiji Temple, there are many cultural properties, one of which is the impressive Sanshokaku Hall. On the ceiling of the hall are 230 pieces of kacho-ga pictures (Japanese paintings depicting flowers and birds) drawn by a famous painter during the early Meiji Period. Five of the 230 pieces, however, depict motifs other than flowers and birds, and relate to the religious training of priests. It is said that those who have found the five paintings will receive happiness.
On the way home, I felt like experiencing life as a priest at Eiheiji Temple. It seems to me that staying for some time at the temple covered by white snow, apart from everyday life, would be something like a journey of self-discovery.

Miko District, Wakasa Town in Mikata-Goko Lakes Area (Reinan region, Fukui Pref.)
I visited the Mikata-Goko area for the first time in May to participate in a two-day walking tour. I took part in the 20 km course with my friend, and we cheered each other up by saying that Mikata-Goko is our “mikata” (a homophone which means “friend”). I still remember the satisfaction I felt when I completed the walk in five hours through the beautiful course surrounded by lakes and green mountains. Also, it was very nice that the owner of a house with a beautiful garden along the course treated us with delicious plum juice.
My first visit to the area was in May, which was plum ripening time. After returning home, I secretly made up my mind to visit the area again, this time during the autumn foliage season. Fortunately in November, I had a chance to go back there as an attendant to accompany an educational tour group from abroad. In the Miko district, which is a 30-minute drive from the Mikata-Goko Lakes, the group had various hands-on experiences in a fishing village. During the drive from the lakes area, we saw monkeys and deer walking leisurely in front of us, just like in a safari park. A group of monkeys, including small ones playing on the backs of their parents, seemed to be fully enjoying their stroll. I was impressed by that scene, which represents the character of the Miko area, where sea, water, mountains, lakes and small villages blend in harmony.
We had good weather on the day we arrived, and we were impressed by the beautiful sunset. The setting sun, someone standing on the pier, and flying seagullsI took pictures of the beautiful scenery that could not be described by words. Although I could not communicate enough through language with the local fishermen who took care of the tour group, I believe that we understood each other through feelings. At dinner that night, we enjoyed lots of excellent seafood. Next morning, we had a hands-on experience of inshore set-net fishing by boarding a fishing boat. Freshly caught fish were made into sashimi on the site, and we ate it right away with a secret recipe sauce. That was a great pleasure that cannot be experienced in other places.
○ fuku-e.com (Fukui Prefectural Tourism Federation)
　http://www.fuku-e.com/　
(Japanese, English, Chinese (traditional/simplified), Korean)
○ Wakasa Tourist Information (Wakasa-mikatagoko Tourism Association)
  http://www.wakasa-mikatagoko.jp/
(Japanese, English, Chinese (traditional/simplified), Korean)
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◆ Introduction to the Korean version of the Japanese comic series, “Eki-ben Hitori Tabi”
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On the release of the Korean-translated version of the Japanese comic series running in Weekly Manga Action magazine, “Eki-ben Hitori Tabi,” Vol. 3 (Kansai ver.), JR West and offices of prefectures that appear in the comic offered us many courtesies and assistance. We would like to take this opportunity to thank them for providing us color photo data of actual eki-ben (box lunch sold at railway stations) and for helping us edit the captions. As of today, volumes 1 to 5 of the series have already been released in translated versions. Our staff, who recently visited Seoul, Korea for market research, reported that the series was displayed at eye-catching locations in local bookstores.

Story: Daisuke Nakahara, the main character of the story, loves traveling by railway and eating eki-ben. His great love for eki-ben finally led him to open a box lunch shop. The shop gained so much popularity that Daisuke had no time for traveling. His wife Yuko, who worried about him not being able to enjoy himself, gave him a present for their 10th wedding anniversary: traveling around Japan by railway. He started his travels at Tokyo Station, and in Vol. 3, he travels around the Kansai region.
・Web page that introduces “Eki-ben Hitori Tabi,” Vol. 3 (in Korean)
http://www.gamecollege.co.kr/homepage/eki3.jpg
・Web page that introduces “Eki-ben Hitori Tabi,” Vol. 3 (in Japanese)
(Some pages can be read online.)
http://comics.yahoo.co.jp/10days/hayasezi01/ekibennh01/shoshi/shoshi_0003.html
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◆ Interesting information: Recommendation from among the “Best 100 Cherry Blossom Sites in Japan,” selected by the Japan Cherry Blossom Association
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According to this year’s cherry blossom forecast dates (Someiyoshino variety), released by the Japan Weather Association, the cherry blossoms will follow the average year’s schedule or bloom a little earlier this year in western and northern Japan. The forecast predicts that in the Kansai region, cherry trees will bloom earliest in Wakayama Pref. on or around March 25, and latest in Fukui Pref. on or around April 4.

Estimated cherry blossom blooming dates released on Feb. 23, 2011 by Japan Weather Association

From among the “Best 100 Cherry Blossom Sites in Japan,” selected by the Japan Cherry Blossom Association, we have chosen some good spots in the Kansai region. Although there are, of course, many spots famous for cherry blossoms other than those shown below, we hope that our recommendation will be helpful for you. Also, click below to check our map indicating the locations.
URL:　 http://maps.google.co.jp/maps/mshl=ja&ie=UTF8&msa=0&msid= 213370928553280196284.00049d518137ba54d2603&ll=34.070862,134.516602&spn =7.168631,16.655273&z=6&brcurrent=3,0x35530d02da27ec53:0xb57d6808208d85f7,0

Shiga Prefecture
1. Ho Park, Nagahama City/Best viewing season: Apr. 1 to 15 (average year)
About 800 Someiyoshino cherry trees grow in the park surrounding the ruins of Nagahama Castle built by a feudal lord, Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The cherry blossoms add charm to the beautiful spring scenery along the shores of Lake Biwa.
2. Cherry Blossom Tunnel in Kaizu Osaki, Takashima City/Best viewing season: early to mid Apr. (average year)
　About 600 Someiyoshino cherry trees over 70 years old form a beautiful blossom tunnel stretching 4 km along the shore of Lake Biwa. Known as a good spot for viewing late-blooming cherry blossoms in the Kinki region.
 

Kyoto Prefecture
3. Ninnaji Temple in Omuro, Kyoto City/Best viewing season: Apr. 13 to 20 (average year)
There are about 200 Satozakura cherry trees, such as Omuro-Ariake, on the premises of the temple. Because of the soil type, the cherry trees in the temple grow only to about 2 to 4 m tall, with blossoms blooming even at as low as 20 to 30 cm above the ground.
4. Arashiyama Park, Kyoto City/Best viewing season: Apr. 5 to 15 (average year)
The scenery from the Togetsukyo Bridge, with Yamazakura cherry trees on the river banks, represents the virgin landscape of Japan. The elegant lines of Arashiyama Mountains, Oigawa River and many temples and historic buildings in the area beautifully blend in harmony with the cherry blossoms.
5. Daigoji Temple, Kyoto City/Best viewing season: Apr. 1 to 14 (average year)
During the period of sakura-e (Buddhist service performed in the cherry blossom season), ko-haku maku (fabric curtains with red and white stripes, used for festive occasions) decorate the entire premises of the temple, including the famous Sakuranobaba area. On the second Sunday of April, the Ho-Taiko Hanami Gyoretsu (Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s cherry blossom viewing parade) and other events are held to reproduce the extravagant Daigo-no-Hanami Party thrown by Hideyoshi.
6. Kasagi Natural Park, Kasagi Town/Best viewing season: Apr. 6 to 12 (average year)
In the Kasagi area, located in the mountains in the Kizu River upstream region, there are about　3,000 cherry trees near JR Kasagi Station. Enjoy the beautiful scene of a gentle breeze touching the pink cherry blossoms, causing the blossom petals to waft over the river just like snowflakes.
 

Osaka Prefecture
7. Osaka Mint Bureau, Osaka City/Best viewing season: Apr. 6 to 12 (2010)
Along the about 560 m long pathway between the south and north gates of the premises of the Osaka Mint Bureau, more than 400 cherry trees of over 120 varieties form a beautiful cherry blossom tunnel. Known as one of the signature spring events in Osaka.
8. Osaka Castle Park, Osaka City/Best viewing season: early Apr. (average year)
Over 4,300 cherry trees bloom throughout the park. The Nishinomaru Garden is the highlight. Don’t forget to visit at night to enjoy the beautifully illuminated castle tower and blossoms in full bloom.
9. Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, Suita City/Best viewing season: late Mar. to early Apr. (average year)
Commemorating the 41st anniversary of the 1970 World Exhibition in Osaka, various events such as fireworks and a big pottery market are scheduled to be held this year. During the period when cherry blossoms are illuminated at night, the Park is open until 9 p.m.
 

Hyogo Prefecture
10. Himeji Castle, Himeji City/Best viewing season: early to mid Apr. (average year)
The magnificent and elegant Himeiji Castle, registered as a National Treasure and a World Heritage Site, and beautiful cherry blossoms blend in great harmony. The highlight includes the rows of cherry blossom trees in the Sannomaru Plaza and weeping cherry trees in the Nishinomaru Garden.
11. Akashi Park/Akashi City/Best viewing season: Apr. 1 to 20 (average year)
Over 1,200 Someiyoshino cherry trees bloom in the park. Especially the scenery around the Gonoike Pond is superb. Meanwhile, don’t forget to enjoy a beautiful view of cherry blossoms with the Akashi Castle watchtowers in the background. The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is also just in front of your eyes.
12. Shukugawa Park, Nishinomiya City/Best viewing season: early Apr. (average year)
Stretching 3 km along the banks of the Shukugawa River, the rows of cherry trees (mainly Someiyoshino) form a part of the “green oasis” road. The contrast between the cherry blossoms and the green of the pine trees on the banks is exceptional.
 

Nara Prefecture
13. Nara Park, Nara City/Best viewing season: late Mar. to mid Apr. (average year)
Cherry blossoms, the deer on the lawn, and historic and cultural heritages, such as Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple and Kasugataisha Shrine, all blend in harmony, producing a beautiful landscape of the ancient capital.
14. Koriyama Castle Ruins, Yamatokoriyama City/Best viewing season: early to mid Apr. (average year)
There are about 800 cherry trees in the park. Enjoy the beautiful night scene of cherry blossoms illuminated by lanterns and historic castle moats. Various events are held at the cherry blossom festival, including a goldfish fair, Jidai Gyoretsu, or a procession of people in historical costumes, and a citizens’ parade.
15. Yoshinoyama, Yoshino Town/Best viewing season: early to late Apr. (average year)
　　Yoshinoyama (Mt. Yoshino) has been famous as the “Mecca” of cherry blossoms. Approximately 30,000 Yamazakura cherry trees line the valleys and ridges of the mountain from 200 m up to 800 m above sea level. The cherry blossoms bloom in order from the lower area, Shimo Senbon (lower 1,000 trees) to upper areas called Naka Senbon (middle 1,000 trees), Kami Senbon (upper 1,000 trees) and Oku Senbon (inner 1,000 trees).  

Wakayama Prefecture
16. Kimiidera Temple, Wakayama City/Best viewing season: Apr. 2 to 12 (average year)
This is a good spot for viewing early blooming cherry blossoms, which herald spring in the Kinki region. About 1,500 cherry trees bloom beautifully on the temple’s premises. The temple is also known as a prime site for cherry blossom viewing at night. Furthermore, an excellent panoramic view of Wakanoura Bay can be enjoyed from the premises of the temple.
17. Negoroji Temple, Iwade City/Best viewing season: late Mar. to mid Apr. (average year)
Approximately 7,000 cherry trees, including Yamazakura and Someiyoshino, bloom throughout the temple’s premises. The Tahoto Tower and the Taishido Hall look magnificent surrounded by cherry blossoms in full bloom.
18. Shichikawa Dam Lakefront, Kozagawa Town/Best viewing season: late Mar. to early Apr. (average year)
Over 4,000 Someiyoshino cherry trees grow in a row along the shores of the dam lake for 5 km. The beautiful blossoms are reflected on the surface of the water in the rich nature of the Nanki region.
 

Fukui Prefecture
19. Asuwayama Park, Fukui City/Best viewing season: Apr. 10 to 15 (average year)
Along the Asuwagawa River flowing through the central part of Fukui City, cherry blossom trees form a beautiful blossom tunnel stretching for 2.2 km. The entire area of Fukui City, including the Asuwayama Park at the foot of Mt. Asuwayama, is filled with the beauty of blooming cherry blossoms.
20. Kasumigajo Park, Sakai City/Best viewing season: Apr. 6 to 12 (average year)
The castle tower of the Kasumigajo Castle, or Mist Castle, is the oldest in existence. Approximately 400 Someiyoshino cherry trees bloom around the castle. When the blossoms are in full bloom, the castle stands beautifully amidst the misty curtain of cherry blossoms, just as suggested by the castle name.
 

Mie Prefecture
21. Mitake District in Misugi Town, Tsu City/Best viewing season: early to late Apr. (average year)
Enjoy a panoramic view of Mt. Ohbora and about 3,000 cherry trees surrounding the Kimigano Dam Lake. In the historic Mitake District, old Yamazakura trees still bloom magnificently as in the past.
22. Miyagawa-Tsutsumi Park, Ise City/Best viewing season: late Mar. to early Apr. (average year)
The Miyagawa-Tsutsumi Park, or the Miya River Banks, has long been well known as a beautiful cherry blossom spot, together with the famous sakura-no-watashi (cherry blossom ferry). During the cherry blossom festival, various events are held in the area decorated by lanterns. Many people visit the park for cherry blossom viewing both at day and night.
 

Tottori Prefecture
23. Kyusho Park, Tottori City/Best viewing season: early to mid Apr. (average year)
About 400 cherry trees (mainly Someiyoshino) grow in this historic park situated in the ruins of Tottori Castle at the foot of Mt. Kyusho. The trees bloom in a good contrast with the castle’s stone walls designated as a national historic landmark.
24. Utsubuki Park, Kurayoshi City/Best viewing season: early to mid Apr. (average year)
The Utsubuki Park located at the foot of Mt. Utsubuki, a symbol of Kurayoshi City, is the best cherry blossom site in the prefecture, with over 4,000 cherry trees. During the spring festival, Hanasaka Jisan (a character in a Japanese folk tale who makes trees bloom) makes a special appearance in the park.
 

Tokushima Prefecture                                                                                                                                    25. Tokushima Central Park & Bizan Park, Tokushima City/Best viewing season: late Mar. to early Apr. (average year)
The Tokushima Central Park is an excellent cherry blossom site in the central area of Tokushima City. The cherry blossoms create a beautiful contrast against the wall stones in the ruins of Tokushima Castle. The park is also known as a good spot for cherry blossom viewing at night. In the Bizan Park, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the City and cherry blossoms at the same time.

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Issued by: The Organization of Kansai Unity
Address: 11F, Osaka International Convention Center (OICC Grand Cube Osaka) 5-3-51 Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Osaka
Website: http://www.kansai-japan.net/en/
E-mail: info@kansai-japan.net
(To change your registered information or to cancel your subscription, click here) →
Kawabata@kansai.gr.jp
◆What is Kansai?
The Kansai region comprises 10 prefectures: Fukui, Mie, Shiga, Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo, Nara, Wakayama, Tokushima, and Tottori Prefectures. Befitting one of the best tourist destinations in Japan, Kansai is full of tourist attractions, including five UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites.
http://www.kansai.gr.jp/place_e/kansai/index.htm
◆What is Kansai Unity?
The Organization of Kansai Unity was established on July 1, 2007, comprising 10 prefectures, 4 ordinance-designated cities, and 6 economic organizations in the Kansai region. The purpose of the organization is to help Kansai develop into an attractive and energetic region by taking advantage of the overall strengths of the region.
http://www.kansai.gr.jp/ku/index.html