 Most viewed - SHIGA 滋賀県 |
Lyrics of Kibo no Fune--Uminoko Shukoka (Ship of Hope--Lake Child Cruise Song). They created a song just for the boat in 1984. 希望の船--湖の子周航歌2491 viewsThis is the 1st verse:
朝もやはれて さわやかに
さざ波光る びわのうみ
ぼくらわたしら 滋賀の子が
湖上たのしく めぐりつつ
郷土の知識 たかめあう
希望の船よ 希望の船よ
湖の子よ
|
|
Benten-do1520 views
|
|
Koka Ninja House (Koka-ryu Ninjutsu Yashiki) is the former residence of Mochizuki Izumonokami, the leading Koga ninja family of the 53 Koka ninja families. 望月出雲守 MAP1243 viewsThe house is in its original location in the Koka area of Shiga Prefecture.
|
|
The Ninja House, built in 1703, is owned and maintained by a local medicine company having ninja roots. Many Koka ninja were makers of medicine as a front for their clandestine activities. This background also made them expert at making gunpowder.1233 viewsNot a National Historic Site, but it should be.
|
|
As a theme park, the Koka-no-Sato Ninjutsu-mura or Koka Ninja Village offers a good tourist sampling of ninja in a hidden village of former ninja houses transplanted to this "village." Entrance to Koka Ninja Village, tucked away in a hidden, lus1219 viewsEntrance to Koka Ninja Village, tucked away in a hidden, lush forest. Quite far from the nearest train station (Koka Station on the Kusatsu Line). You can call them from the train station to be picked up.
|
|
Great summer day for the beach at Omi-Maiko, one of the most popular and whitest beaches on Lake Biwa.1210 views
|
|
San-mon Gate. Built in 1802. 三門1188 views
|
|
The Mizugumo Water Spider Pond where you can walk on water. A few visitors, wearing ninja costumes, try it out.1158 views
|
|
Live orchestra playing swing jazz. 有川新二&ザ・グレイ・ラスカルズオーケストラ「なつかしのスウイングジャズ」1156 views
|
|
Hachiman Commercial High School designed by William Merrell Vories in 1935. 八幡商業高等学校 MAP1135 views
|
|
Metal finger claws worn on the fingertips.1111 views
|
|
Hinokawa Dam Park 日野川ダム公園1038 views
|
|
There he goes, not exactly walking on water. Just dragging himself across with the rope. This is only for anime-like amusement. This is not how the ninja did it.972 views
|
|
I love the design of this boat. 千秋・太郎号のフィックス艇937 views
|
|
|
Old school library is now a K-ON gallery, event space, and cafe. Fans of the popular manga/anime called K-ON! gather here on weekends.924 views
|
|
Otsu Matsuri is one of Shiga's major festivals featuring thirteen ornate floats displayed and paraded around central Otsu over two days before Sports Day, a national holiday around Oct. 10.923 views
|
|
White sands at Omi-Maiko, Lake Biwa.910 views
|
|
Rumi903 views
|
|
Ladder going to the 2nd floor. There's also a trap door on the floor below the ladder where the ninja could hide. Notice the rope. The ninja hiding under the floor would tug the rope connected to the 2nd floor.897 views
|
|
Hachiman-yama Castle wall878 views
|
|
Beachgoers frolick in the lake as the rowing boats arrive.876 views
|
|
Azuchi Castle tower replica at House of Nobunaga. Very ornate and beautiful. both outside and inside.873 views
|
|
About the song and rowing route... この歌について（日本語解説）870 viewsShiga Prefecture's most famous and beloved song is called Biwako Shuko no Uta (琵琶湖周航の歌) or "Lake Biwa Rowing Song." I have rendered this song into both pictures and English, according to my own imagination and interpretation.
Please see this page for a full explanation: https://photoguide.jp/txt/Lake_Biwa_Rowing_Song
First composed in 1917 by a bunch of college students from Kyoto, the song has been recorded by many famous Japanese singers and groups. In 1971, it became a major nationwide hit with singer Tokiko Kato's rendition. Today, the song remains a favorite among choir groups in Japan, and a choir singing contest is held for the song every June (since 1997) in Imazu, the birthplace of the song in the northwestern corner of Lake Biwa.
Shiga Prefecture also has stone monuments dedicated to each of the six verses. There's even a museum (Biwako Shuko no Uta Shiryokan) in Imazu dedicated to the song. Okaya city on the shores of Lake Suwa in Nagano Prefecture, the birthplace of the song's composer, Taro Oguchi (小口太郎) (1897-1924), also has a song monument and bronze statue of him.
|
|
The Ninja house (Ninja yashiki) is one of the main attractions of the Ninja Village. This was an actual ninja house belonging to the Fujibayashi ninja family. It was disassembled and transplanted here from Ohara Ichiba in Koka.868 views
|
|
The first room you see in the house is the living room. You can sit and have free "ninja tea" while waiting for a guided tour of the house. Along with the geisha, the ninja is one of the most recognized but misunderstood things about Japan.844 views
|
|
Shuriken target practice at the Shuriken Dojo in Koka Ninja Village, Shiga Prefecture. 手裏剣道場841 views
|
|
Kusatsu Shukuba Festival, Shiga Pref. 大奥夢道中835 views
|
|
Ninja armored suit for protection against swords.831 views
|
|
Trap door on the floor opened.822 views
|
|
Clear waters and beautiful Lake Biwa beach at Omi-Maiko818 views
|
|
Amenomori is Takatsuki's showcase and flagship area. It's a quiet, rural part of town with waterwheels, roadside streams and flowers. Charming and picturesque.816 views
|
|
Water spider (mizugumo): How the ninja did it. This drawing from the Koka Ninja House shows how it was done. The ninja sat on the board inside the wooden ring and waded through the water while partially submerged. His wooden clogs had small flippers.788 views
|
|
Kusatsu Shukuba Festival, Shiga Pref.783 views
|
|
Whoa, almost fell into the water!762 views
|
|
Real ninja shuriken throwing star knives on display. Made of steel, they come in many different shapes.750 views
|
|
Grab the rope and step into the foot rings. Of course, ninja never wore a bright red costume. You can rent a ninja suit in various colors for 600 yen.733 views
|
|
Just when I finally became able to recognize the different faces of the cheerleaders (at first, they looked the same to me), the season ends, and they will be replaced next season.727 views
|
|
Koka Ninja Museum also has showcases with various ninja costumes, documents, weapons, etc. The museum is kind of rundown though.714 views
|
|
Closet with a trap door on the floor.713 views
|
|
Kusatsu Shukuba Festival, Shiga Pref.711 views
|
|
Statue of Lord Todo Takatora (in Kora, Shiga Prefecture) who became the 11th lord of Tsu Castle (Mie Pref.) in 1608. Behind it is the Takatora Waterfall.705 views
|
|
Tsuchiyama-juku in Tsuchiyama-cho was the 49th of the 53 stations of the Tokaido Road, accessible by this "Aikuru" bus from Kibukawa Station (JR Kusatsu Line and Ohmi Railways). It takes 20-30 min, but the bus does not run so often.703 viewsTsuchiyama-juku in Tsuchiyama-cho was the forty-ninth of the fifty-three stations of the Tokaido Road, following Sakanoshita-juku in Mie. It is right after Suzuka Pass on the Suzuka mountains, one of the two most difficult sections of the Tokaido. Travelers thus were happy to see Tsuchiyama. Nicknamed "Ai no Tsuchiyama," the town is working hard to preserve its old buildings. The Tsuchiyama-juku Honjin where Shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu and Emperor Meiji lodged is still intact and well maintained. The Tsuchiyama Tokaido Museum is also a major attraction. Special thanks to Uno Yoshinobu who was my guide in Tsuchiyama.
|
|
Sleek racing row boats and traditional yakata picnic boats on upper right701 views
|
|
Shuriken throwing knives.693 views
|
|
Other activities.692 views
|
|
Ninja's secret language. A codified system.685 views
|
|
Ceiling of Ninja House. Directly below the thatched roof.683 views
|
|
Little ninja at target practice.682 views
|
|
Ninja sword, very short.680 views
|
|
Soft rubber shuriken (toys). Special thanks to Takayuki Mochizuki (ninja descendant) for taking me to this Koka Ninja House.672 views
|
|
My 34-min. comprehensive English video about Hikone Castle, Genkyuen Garden, and autumn festivals. 666 views
|
|
Shinobi Shrine is what you first see. Worships all the nameless ninja who died. The ninja never tried to gain fame. They remained unknown. 志能備神社665 views
|
|
Inside the ninja house. A hearth with a escape hatch at the bottom.660 views
|
|
Welcome to Hikone, best known for Hikone Castle and mascot Hiko-nyan. At JR Hikone Station, this photo of official mascot Hikonyan greets you. Map660 views
|
|
Inside the trap door is a hole and tunnel leading to a well in the garden outside. Hence the water.659 views
|
|
Tools for making medicine (including gunpowder). Many Koka (Koga) ninja were medicine makers. It was a disguise and a means to gather information from people when they went around selling medicines. Koka ninja were always in contact with the local people.651 views
|
|
Honolulu Advertiser newspaper from Hawaii featuring a photo of a ninja from Koka who performed at Ala Moana Shopping Center in 1990.651 views
|
|
Ninja house attic showing the thatched roof.650 views
|
|
Hikone Castle and Genkyu-en Garden in fall647 views
|
|
Crane design in temari646 views
|
|
A flaming star646 views
|
|
Ninja looked at a cat's eyes to find out what time it was. If the iris was almost closed, it was noon. If dilated, it was late at night. Must've been troublesome to find and snatch a cat to find out what time it was.645 views
|
|
Trying my shuriken skills. You throw it with an overhand throw (like a baseball) and not like a frisbee. Also see my YouTube video here.644 views
|
|
Revolving door (opened). The floor also has a trap door (see next photo) where you can go down and escape through a tunnel leading to a well in the garden outside.643 views
|
|
Maki-bishi spikes thrown on the ground to poke your feet. These are made from dried water chestnuts (aquatic plant found in marshes). One of the four spikes will point upward.642 views
|
|
638 views
|
|
A pair of floating rings with a platform in the middle.636 views
|
|
Ninja well with an escape tunnel which you can almost walk through.635 views
|
|
Map of Japan showing numerous ninja schools which existed during the feudal era. Iga-Ueno and Koga ninja were the most famous.635 views
|
|
Hearth with a escape hatch at the bottom. A tour guide shows you the gimmicks of the house.635 views
|
|
Nohime, wife of Oda Nobunaga. 農姫630 views
|
|
Poster for the movie "Katen no Shiro" (火天の城) released in Japan on Sept. 12, 2009. It is about the building of Azuchi Castle. Movie review here629 views
|
|
The 2nd floor, between the first floor and ceiling, has a very low height which can entrap an intruder going upstairs.625 views
|
|
Display case showing ninja costumes. Real ninja mainly wore one of seven disguises instead of the stereotypical black costume. They could be dressed as a priest, merchant, jester, etc.622 views
|
|
The Sanno-sai Festival is held annually on April 12-15 at Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture. Not to be confused with the Sanno Matsuri held by Hie Shrine in Tokyo. It centers on April 14, the shrine's most important day called Reisai.621 views
|
|
Shuriken throwing knives.619 views
|
|
Ninja tools616 views
|
|
Designed by William Merrell Vories, the old Toyosato Elementary School building was built in 1937. This picture was taken in 2007, before renovations. This is the front gate.616 views
|
|
This room has display cases showing various ninja weapons, tools, and costumes. The ceiling is also quite low, designed to impede the wielding of samurai swords.614 views
|
|
611 views
|
|
Demonstration of matchlock guns, Azuchi Nobunaga Festival.610 viewsEven these people had to obtain police permission to bear and fire these feudal-era guns.
|
|
Inside Koka Ninja Museum which opened in 1983. The dirt-floored room has various ninja ladders.610 views
|
|
The rope is connected to a noise maker on the 2nd floor here. The intruder would then think that the ninja is on the 2nd floor and go up the ladder in pursuit. When the intruder is on the 2nd floor, the ninja below the trap door would remove the ladder.607 views
|
|
Shinobi Shrine has a statue of Daikokuten, one of the seven gods of good fortune. He is worshipped for good marriage, food, and prosperity. Made during the early Edo Period, it's Japan's largest wooden statue of Daikokuten. 大黒天606 views
|
|
The left sliding wooden door is very heavy, about 50 kg, making it difficult to open. This buys more time for the ninja to escape.606 views
|
|
|
Entrance to another room on the first floor. Although the Koga ninja and Iga ninja (in Mie Prefecture) were the most famous, there were actually numerous ninja groups in many other parts of Japan as well. They were most active during wars.598 views
|
|
Dart-shaped shuriken. Shuriken were not only star-shaped. These were either thrown straight-on, or thrown while the point rotated 180 degrees turning toward the target. It was difficult to throw, and much practice was required..598 views
|
|
Giant Buddha's hand. Used in a 1982 ninja movie. The hand has the same scale as the Giant Buddha's hand in Nara's Todaiji temple.597 views
|
|
Sumo wrestler's hairstyle.597 views
|
|
Shigaraki tanuki racoon dogs.594 views
|
|
Cheerleader in the stands!594 views
|
|
Azuchi Castle construction591 views
|
|
Statue of Lord Ii Naomasa (井伊 直政 1561-1602 ) in front of JR Hikone Station in 2007.589 views
|
|
Small gun concealed as a sword.588 views
|
|
Path to Koka Ninjutsu-mura Village. Admission is 1,000 yen for adults. Cheaper for students. Open 10 am - 5 pm. Free shuttle bus available from JR Koka Station. Phone: 0748-88-5000581 views
|
|
The wooden railing on the right is slimmer than the left one. It means it is removable, allowing the ninja to escape from the 2nd floor.581 views
|
|
Hooks for hoisting ropes on walls, etc. The Koka ninja reluctantly moved to Edo (Tokyo) around 1634 as requested by the shogun, and worked as castle guards, gathered intelligence on daimyo lords, and formed a gun battalion.581 views
|
|
Ninja dolls580 views
|
|
Main entrance to Miidera (Onjoji) temple. It is the headquarters temple of the Tendai Jimon Buddhist Sect (founded by Priest Enchin) and former rival of Enryakuji temple on Mt. Hiei, also in Shiga. MAP578 views
|
|
Ninja souvenirs576 views
|
|
One of Japan's renown and historical centers for pottery, Shigaraki's heart is the Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park.573 views
|
|
A bit of rythmn gymnastics.572 views
|
|
That rope goes to the second floor (see next photo).569 views
|
|
Ladder going up to the attic.568 views
|
|
The Ninja House also displays autographs by celebrities who visited the house. This is actor Harrison Ford who visited in Feb. 2000. He came unannounced with a taxi driver, interpreter, and his son.568 views
|
|
Oda Nobunaga 織田信長562 views
|
|
Maki-bishi made of steel. Used for escape when they encountered an enemy. Many of the ninja's weapons were designed to buy time for the ninja to escape.562 views
|
|
Traditional minka house561 views
|
|
Shiga LakeStars cheerleaders.557 views
|
|
Going through the trap door.557 views
|
|
Trap door behind a scroll with the kanji "shinobi" (stealth).555 views
|
|
The upper walls have explanations about the Koka ninja and Mochizuki ninja family. "Koka" is the correct pronunciation, but the kanji can also be pronounced "Koga" which has become more common.554 views
|
|
Gunpowder case550 views
|
|
A long line outside Kyoto City Gymnasium on Oct. 3, 2009 before noon when gates opened for the Kyoto Hannaryz debut game in the bj-league.542 views
|
|
Roof with ninja family crest.540 views
|
|
Stairs to go back down to the 1st floor. There's a rotating door. Ninja worked behind the scenes and were very secretive. They hardly told others about their activites nor left written records. Sometimes they worked as spies or mole.540 views
|
|
もっと奇麗に歩け537 views
|
|
Omi-Maiko Station on JR Kosei Line. It makes it easy for people in Kyoto to visit Omi-Maiko. MAP535 viewsSign says "Welcome to Omi-Maiko." Omi-Maiko was in the former town of Shiga-cho that merged into Otsu.
|
|
Headquarters of the Tendai Buddhist sect, Enryakuji is a large complex of temples, halls, buildings, and monuments on Mt. Hiei in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture. It boasts buildings which are National Treasures. MAP533 views
|
|
Shuriken Dojo Hall 手裏剣道場530 views
|
|
Ladies in waiting (hey there, look up!)529 views下を向いたらあかん。
|
|
Nagahama Castle (reconstructed) is a lakeside castle within Hokoen Park near Nagahama Station. This is the entrance to the park. 豊公園 MAP529 views
|
|
Medicine ad sign reading Ninjutsu-gan. For belly aches. Although the ninja's medicine-making remains today, the art of ninjutsu is ironically no longer practiced in Koka. It is not a martial art like karate and judo.527 views
|
|
The Ninja house was built in 1842. There is a guide (dressed in ninja costume) inside to show you around.525 views
|
|
Lotus at Karasuma Peninsula in Kusatsu.524 views
|
|
Next to the Ninja house is the Koka Ninja Museum (Koka Ninjutsu Hakubutsukan). This was also a fomer house transplanted here. 甲賀忍術博物館524 views
|
|
Held only once every 5 years, the Ibuki-yama Taiko Drum Dance was held on Oct. 3, 2010 in Ueno, a small neighborhood at the foot of Mt. Ibuki. 522 views
|
|
Harie is a unique rural neighborhood where homes draw clean water from an ever-flowing spring directly from the ground into private wells called kabata. A local NPO conducts tours of the area and homes with kabata.518 viewsHarie is in Takashima, Shiga, near JR Shin-Asahi Station on the Kosei Line, the gateway to Shin-Asahi and Harie. 新旭駅 MAP
|
|
Ceiling of Ninja House.516 views
|
|
Real ninja obviously did not wear a pink costume, but in the manga/anime world, pink looks cute.516 views
|
|
The array of ninja weapons and tools was very impressive. This Ninja House strives to dispel some of the myths and misconceptions of the ninja. A visit is highly recommended.516 views
|
|
The veranda is another escape route after opening trick windows from the inside. Ninja avoided direct combat and preferred to defend themselves and escape from enemies. Assassination was only a minor part of their activities.514 views
|
|
Blow tube and blow darts.513 views
|
|
This entire ceiling was designed to fall down on any assailant in this room.509 views
|
|
Monument for Sarutobi Sasuke, a famous Koga ninja who was born in Koka. However, he was only fictional character. Ninjas never tried to become famous. 猿飛佐助の碑508 views
|
|
The famed Bansenshukai Ninja Bible detailing ninja tools and techniques. This is a replica.508 views
|
|
On Oct. 25-26, 2008, the first Yuru-Kyara (Mascot Character) Matsuri was held on Yume-Kyobashi Castle Road in Hikone. This sign at Hikone Station points the way. Map508 views
|
|
Swinging down a rope.506 views
|
|
Ninja costumes for sale. 10,000 yen for adult costume, and 7,000 yen for children's size.505 views
|
|
They wore wooden geta clogs with flippers which helped them propel themselves underwater. The wooden floating ring is collapsible and quite light. Almost like balsa.502 views
|
|
Medicine packages from Koka ninja-related medicine companies. Even today, Koka has numerous medicine manufacturers.501 views
|
|
Contrary to popular belief, ninja cannot walk on water. "Mizugumo" means water spider. To move across water, they used a wooden floating ring shown here, and sat in the middle.501 views
|
|
The Koka Ninja House also has a Shuriken Dojo. Pay 200 yen for five shuriken throwing stars (300 yen for 10) and try hitting the bull's eye.500 views
|
|
Small revolving door connected to a closet. The Koka ninja's main activity was gathering information. As they traveled and sold medicines, they always talked to people and their customers. They tried to find out how many guns the enemy had, etc.496 views
|
|
Bullets with various gauges.496 views
|
|
Otsu Exhibition, Nov. 21 - Dec. 4, 2005 at Shiga Kaikan, Otsu, Shiga. Right across from the Shiga Prefectural Office. 滋賀会館495 viewsFor this exhibition, I created my own photographic rendition of the places and scenes mentioned in the song and also photographed all the stone monuments dedicated to the song. I used Photoshop to composite images and to alter the colors into a dreamy condition as the song suggests. I also translated the lyrics into English.
The exhibition was held at Shiga Kaikan, right across from the Shiga Prefectural Office. Shiga Kaikan has two spaces for exhibitions, and I used the smaller space called Bunka Salon Gallery.
Map: http://www.shiga-bunshin.or.jp/shigakaikan/map.html
Address: Kyomachi 3-4-22, Otsu, Shiga Pref.
Phone: 077-525-9995
〒520-0044 大津市京町三丁目 4-22
Web site: http://www.shiga-bunshin.or.jp/shigakaikan/
|
|
At the same time as Niagara Falls, they lit the two giant torches. It was hard to watch both the Niagara Falls and giant torches at the same time. But Niagara soon petered out.495 views
|
|
Castle wall to climb on.494 views
|
|
Asahi Honen Taiko Odori dancers and Mt. Ibuki in Maibara, Shiga.488 views
|
|
Tsukubusuma Shrine (National Treasure) on Chikubushima island, Nagahama, Shiga. It worships Benzaiten as well as the Dragon God and Azai-hime. 都久夫須麻神社487 views
|
|
Path down to Koka Ninja Village. Lots of greenery. MAP487 views
|
|
The Saio princess wears a juni-hitoe (12-layer) robe reserved only for Imperial family members. For this festival in 2009, the Saio princess is portrayed by 20-year-old Chiaki Koyama (神山千明) from Shigaraki, Koka. 486 views
|
|
Kaizu-Osaki is a peninsula easily accessible from Makino or Nishi-Azai Station. You can rent a bicycle at Makino Station on the Kosei Line or at Nagahara Station. Makino Station is closer so I rented a bicycle there at the tourist info office.484 views
|
|
Azuchi Castle replica483 views
|
|
The Koka Ninja House is located 2 km from JR Konan Station on the JR Kusatsu Line. There are no buses going to the Ninja House. The house is open every day 9 am - 5 pm. Closed Dec. 27-Jan. 1. Admission is 600 yen for adults. 望月出雲守481 views
|
|
Wall to climb on479 views
|
|
Miss Shakunage (Rhododendron)478 views
|
|
Swinging chain with weights on the ends. Wrap it around the opponent's neck.478 views
|
|
Kiyotaki Tokugen-in temple's three-story pagoda in Maibara, Shiga.478 views
|
|
A sketch shows how they were "water spiders." They were largely submerged in the water, with the wooden ring also submerged, but buoyant enough for them to float across while kicking through the water with the flipper clogs.477 views
|
|
Otsu Prince Hotel, the main venue of the 11th Shiga Kenjinkai International Convention held Nov. 12-14, 2007.475 views
|
|
Shuriken Dojo has a few stalls. For a few hundred yen, you can throw real shuriken at wooden targets.474 views
|
|
One room's upper walls display a chronological history of the Koga ninja.473 views
|
|
Risa リサ473 views
|
|
Straw sandals with metal claws for traction.472 views
|
|
Burning old New Year's decorations, Hokoku Jinja, Nagahama, Shiga Pref.470 views
|
|
Shirahige Shrine torii as seen from the cruise boat.470 views
|
|
It makes you wonder how they fit the temari threaded ball into the round glass bottle.470 views
|
|
Shirahige Shrine torii, Takashima. One of Lake Biwa's best-known landmarks. It faces the shrine on land. Rent a bicycle or go by taxi from Omi-Takashima Station (Kosei Line).470 views
|
|
Green pine and white sand of Omi-Maiko, Lake Biwa.469 views
|
|
Giant tanuki at Shigaraki Station. Wish they removed that pay phone.468 views
|
|
Straw ninja hat with a deep brim to hide their face. Dressing like a priest, merchant, etc., would arouse the least suspicion while they traveled.467 views
|
|
Shin-Asahi manhole cover with a windmill design. Takashima, Shiga Pref.466 views
|
|
Due to financial reasons, the Suijo Hachiman Shrine Taiko Drum Dance is held only once every 5 years. I went to see it on Sept. 23, 2009. MAP466 views
|
|
Shigaraki pottery lessons465 views
|
|
Manga cells. Ninja manga characters are famous. However, real ninja never became famous. Being famous in name or face would greatly decrease the value of that ninja.465 views
|
|
Gift shop selling medicines, tea, and ninja goods.465 views
|
|
This Azuchi Castle tower replica was displayed in the Japan Pavilion at the Seville Expo '92 in Spain before it was moved here.463 views
|
|
Oda Nobunaga actually started living in Azuchi Castle's main tower or donjon. Normally, the castle lord resided in a separate palace.462 views
|
|
Three out of five of my shuriken at least stuck on the board. But all missed the target which is quite low. Probably geared for kids.462 views
|
|
Saio princess in juni-hitoe kimono.462 views
|
|
462 views
|
|
The Shiga Lakestars played against Takamatsu Five Arrows again on Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 2009 at Hikone Shimin Taiiku Center gym, a 20-min. walk from Hikone Station. These photos were taken on Oct. 31, 2009.459 views
|
|
House of Nobunaga (Nobunaga no Yakata). A replica of the top (best) part of Azuchi Castle is displayed inside. See this album to see what's inside. MAP457 views
|
|
Held during the weekend in mid-March, the Sagicho Matsuri is a dramatic parade and clashing of 13 or 14 colorful Sagicho floats. On the first day at 1 pm, 14 Sagicho Festival floats gather at Himure Hachimangu Shrine near Hachiman-bori Canal.457 views
|
|
Chikubushima is home to Hogonji Temple first built in 724 as ordered by the Emperor to worship the Goddess Benzaiten. It belongs to the Shingon Buddhist Sect (Buzan School) and it is the 30th temple in the 33-Temple Pilgrimage of Saigoku. 宝厳寺456 views
|
|
In 1604 at age 30, the Tokugawa government called him to Edo to supervise the building of Zojoji temple (where many Tokugawa shoguns are buried). He also supervised the building of the famous Toshogu Shrine in Nikko. This same statue is at Toshogu Shrine.456 views
|
|
For 500 yen, you can rent a ninja costume of various colors.454 views
|
|
Lotus pond at Karasuma Peninsula.453 views
|
|
Shiga LakeStars poster for home games at Shiga Prefectural Gym in Otsu. 453 views
|
|
Nene, Toyotomi Hideyoshi's wife452 views
|
|
Some balls have tassels.452 views
|
|
Ninja phone straps452 views
|
|
Taga Taisha Shrine's Setsubun bean throwing on Feb. 3 (at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm) is perhaps Shiga's most prominent with three impressive demons (called oni) on stage acting as the evil oni to be chased away with soybeans.452 viewsFeb. 3 is the Setsubun Festival at many temples and shrines in Japan. It marks the beginning of spring according to the lunar calendar. So they throw beans at ogre to eliminate the evil of the previous year and bring in good fortune.
|
|
Kyoto University's winning rowing crew448 views
|
|
Ishida Mitsunari 石田三成448 views
|
|
Way to Niu Shrine, near Hashimoto bus stop, about 15 min. by bus from Yogo Station. The Chawan Matsuri festival is held by Niu Shrine. The last time was in May 2003. The festival features three floats, a procession, and sacred dances and music.448 views
|
|
Outdoor stage, where they hold events like the Miss Kunoichi Contest.447 views
|
|
View from atop Mt. Azuchi.445 views
|
|
Blow darts with poison tips maybe.445 views
|
|
Toyosato Elementary School after renovations in 2009. Nice new coat of paint makes the old school look almost brand new. MAP445 views
|
|
View of Mt. Mikami from Omi-Fuji Karyoku Koen Park in spring.443 views
|
|
442 views
|
|
Statue of Ishida Mitsunari441 views
|
|
Ducks on ice439 views
|
|
Toyosato manhole, Shiga Pref.439 views
|
|
Okino-shiraishi Rocks, a favorite resting place for birds which turned the rocks white from bird droppings. Four rocks stand 80 meters deep in the lake. Out of the water, the tallest stands 14 meters high. 沖の白石437 views
|
|
Nagisa Park in Moriyama, Shiga has this beautiful field of nano-hana rapeseed blossoms blooming in winter from early-Jan. to mid-March at this lakeside park. なぎさ公園 MAP437 views
|
|
Statue of Ii Naomasa in front of Hikone Station436 views
|
|
Medicines made by the company which owns the house.436 views
|
|
Bin-temari monument. "Bin" means bottle, and "temari" is a threaded ball. The bin-temari is a round glass ball with a threaded ball inside.435 views
|
|
Healthy "Ninja tea." Free samples in the living room.435 views
|
|
Bin-temari in Echigawa, Shiga. Echigawa's bin-temari history goes back to around 1840 when its oldest bin-temari was made. However, this traditional art died out with the death of Aoki Hiro in 1973, Echigawa's last bin-temari maker.433 views
|
|
The unique hexagonal base of the upper section of the Azuchi Castle donjon.431 views
|
|
430 views
|
|
Katsube Fire Festival: Men dance in rings in front of the fire. Also see the video at YouTube.430 views
|
|
The "Rio Grande" cruise boat awaits at Imazu Port on a miraculously sunny day during the rainy season. 梅雨でありながら、奇跡的にこんないい天気になった。今津港430 views
|
|
The Omizo Matsuri is the biggest festival (Reisai) of Hiyoshi Jinja Shrine in Takashima (not to be confused with Hiyoshi Taisha in Otsu which is related) held annually on May 3-4.430 views
|
|
Medicine (gunpowder?) case.428 views
|
|
428 views
|
|
Old Ryugen Gakko school. First built in 1876 as a primary school in Takashima, northern Shiga, this is the prefecture's oldest surviving school building. It was moved here for display. 旧柳原学校427 views旧柳原学校
|
|
Kongorinji's Main temple roof drowning in fall leaves427 views
|
|
|
|
Azuchi Castle Museum (Azuchi Jokaku Shiryokan)425 views
|
|
Members of the Toronto Shiga Kenjinkai dance goshu ondo.424 views
|
|
Old New Year's decorations to be burned421 views
|
|
Oda Nobunaga burned Saimyoji right after scorching Enryakuji on Mt. Hiei. Fortunately, the main hall and the pagoda survived. 3-story pagoda, a National Treasure420 views
|
|
Ishiyama-dera temple is a 10-min. walk from Ishiyama-dera Station on the Keihan Ishisaka Line. You can transfer to the Keihan Line at JR Ishiyama Station on the Tokaido Line.420 views
|
|
Autumn flowers at Lake Yogo, a small scenic lake next to northern Lake Biwa.420 views
|
|
Outside the ninja house. This ninja house is very impressive. It does have an air of authenticity, although there are, unavoidably, a few touristy elements. This house should be designated as a Important Cultural Property or an National Historic Site.418 views
|
|
Near Kora Town Hall is this statue of Kora Bungo-no-Kami Munehiro (1574-1646). Born here, he started a famous lineage of shrine/temple carpenters. 甲良豊後守宗廣 MAP418 viewsHe supervised the construction of many famous buildings.
|
|
Green Park Santo was the site for the Ozumo Maibara Basho or Maibara Exhibition Sumo Tournament on Oct. 17, 2008. It was nice sunny day. Banners with the name of famous sumo wrestlers (rikishi) were up. グリーンパーク山東417 views
|
|
416 views
|
|
Sculpture of Lady Murasaki Shikibu.416 views
|
|
Close-up of rowers at Asahi Regatta414 views
|
|
The ball is actually hollow like a balloon. It is inserted into the bottle in a deflated state, then expanded into a ball. The museum also has a fascinating video showing how temari is made.413 views
|
|
Yes, it's Doraemon as fireworks. This lasted briefly before it snuffed out. I heard that they have this every year for this Yuge Fire Festival.413 views
|
|
Keihan Maru boat during the early 1900s. This is a vintage postcard showing a steamer called Keihan Maru moored at Chikubushima. This boat landing is still being used.412 views
|
|
Bin-temari come in different sizes and an infinite number of threaded-ball designs. It also makes a great wedding gift since the round shape symbolizes harmony of the heart and family. You can also clearly see inside. 中がよく（仲良く）見える412 views
|
|
Maibara Basho sumo booklet.412 views
|
|
Hiko-nyan in Hawaii!!412 views
|
|
At the end, we sang Biwako Shuko no Uta (Lake Biwa Rowing Song). The party ended at 9:30 pm.411 views
|
|
Entrance to Kibogaoka Park during the Sports Recreation Shiga 2008 festival during Oct. 18-21, 2008. It's an annual event held in a different prefecture. People from all 47 prefectures and South Korea participate in tournaments for 18 sports.411 views
|
|
Almost everyone got up to dance the goshu ondo. It's like a bon dance peculiar to Shiga. Also see the video at YouTube.410 views
|
|
Go left or right...409 viewsDisobey the sign and go right to visit the main beach.
|
|
Goshu ondo408 views
|
|
Map of central Otsu and lakefront. It is quite easy to walk or bicycle along the lake shore in central Otsu, starting from Hama-Otsu.408 views
|
|
The festival started at 11:30 am with the Saio princess carried on a palanquin arriving at a small park called Yume no Ogawa next to Ono Elementary School. 407 views
|
|
406 views
|
|
In Sakamoto, Hiyoshi Baba road is lined with various cherry trees that bloom in mid-April.406 views
|
|
| 18510 files on 74 page(s) |
1 |
 |
|
|
|
|
