News On Japan

Hard to Digest Snow Sculpture

SAPPORO, Feb 09 (News On Japan) - A snow sculpture at the Sapporo Snow Festival replicating the human intestines is stopping people in their tracks, "How would anyone even think to create this?"

A visitor exclaimed, "You rarely see intestines represented like this... Is it opening up? Does it symbolize something?"

This unique piece was crafted by volunteers from the pharmaceutical company Daiichi Sankyo. Annually, they've chosen the human body as their theme, creating sculptures of the heart, brain, stomach, bones, and last year, the lungs. This year, they chose the intestines.

The idea originated from the Hokkaido Medical Sales Department's manager, Toshikazu Ito, who modeled the intestines himself using clay.

Ito pondered, "It's one thing to model intestines with clay, but how will it turn out as a snow sculpture?"

Indeed, the complexity of replicating this in snow was a challenge.

A team member groaned, "This is tough..." as they felt the onset of muscle soreness.

Time flew by as the Daiichi Sankyo team dedicated themselves to the project over six days. On the final day, they faced a fierce blizzard, yet...

Takemura Koizumi, a manager at Daiichi Sankyo's Hokkaido Medical Sales Department, confidently stated, "I think it's perfect."

Their immense passion for accurately depicting the human intestines in snow was driven by a desire to contribute to a healthier and more prosperous life.

Source: ANNnewsCH

News On Japan
POPULAR NEWS

With only a week left until the New Year, people are preparing for "hatsumode," the tradition of visiting a shrine or temple for the first time in the year. However, the first three days of January see heavy crowds at popular spots. Strategic planning around timing and location can help avoid congestion and make for a quieter visit.

Abandoned hotels in Shizuoka’s Izu Peninsula are becoming an increasing concern for local authorities. Once bustling with tourists during Japan’s economic boom, many hot spring resorts in Higashi-Izu Town have been left derelict, their structures crumbling and ownership unclear.

Temperatures are expected to remain unusually cold in January next year, with the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) predicting colder-than-average conditions nationwide for the start of the year.

Nearly a year has passed since the Noto Peninsula earthquake struck on New Year’s Day, leaving the region grappling with recovery efforts and compounding challenges. In Suzu City’s Otani district, residents began moving into temporary housing earlier this month, following 11 months of hardship, including additional damage from September’s torrential rains.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has unveiled a new passport design set to be issued from March next year. The new system will allow online applications not only for renewals but also for new passport requests. Submitting an original family register certificate will no longer be required for online applications.

MEDIA CHANNELS
         

MORE Travel NEWS

Tourists crossing the roadway despite warnings have long been a challenge for local authorities. Despite attempts such as installing barriers and banners, the problem has persisted.

JR Kyushu High-Speed Ferry announced on December 23rd that it will permanently withdraw from the Japan-South Korea high-speed ferry route connecting Hakata and Busan. The decision follows a scandal involving the company concealing water leakage on its high-speed ferry, the 'Queen Beetle,' while continuing operations.

Japan's largest event for castle enthusiasts was held in Yokohama on the weekend, drawing castle fans from all the country, featuring PR teams dressed as samurai and celebrity appearances.

The World Heritage site of Toji Temple in Kyoto hosted its annual year-end market, the 'Shimai Kobo,' bustling with shoppers.

The 'Yokohama YORUNOYO' illumination event, where the entire Minatomirai area transformed into a dazzling display of synchronized lights. (Video Street View Japan)

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has unveiled a new passport design set to be issued from March next year. The new system will allow online applications not only for renewals but also for new passport requests. Submitting an original family register certificate will no longer be required for online applications.

General drivers will be allowed to operate paid rides, commonly referred to as "ridesharing," throughout Osaka Prefecture on a 24/7 basis during the Osaka-Kansai Expo.

Wakayama, with its beautiful ocean and sacred mountains, is an underrated gem and a less-traveled destination compared to the neighboring cities of Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara. (japan-guide.com)