New Ebina Sports and Entertainment Center Opens

Kanagawa, Jul 13 (News On Japan) - A new sports and entertainment facility blending sports and entertainment elements opened in Ebina, Kanagawa Prefecture on Friday.

The newly opened facility, Bootverse, features Japan's first introduction of duckpin bowling. This version of bowling incorporates projection mapping, allowing players to enjoy a soccer game. Players aim at pins while avoiding a virtual goalkeeper in the center. Takayanagi gave it a try, successfully hitting four pins. When the ball avoids the goalkeeper, the word "Goal" is displayed. The goal is to score 50 points with five throws.

Takayanagi challenged viewers with a quiz: How many points will he score out of 50 after his last throw? He had already thrown four times during a commercial break. The unique aspect of duckpin bowling is its smaller, heavier ball with no finger holes. Takayanagi's final score, displayed above his head, was 29 points, earning him applause from the studio.

In addition to duckpin bowling, the facility offers 15 other sports, including a ninja obstacle race and a hybrid attraction combining mini-golf and curling. Another highlight is the Shark Escape attraction, where players fend off attacking sharks from all angles. The activity can be enjoyed by two to four players, with participants using mallets to hit the sharks' heads.

The facility, which opened today, promises fun even on rainy days. Visitors are encouraged to check out the exciting attractions this weekend. Despite being a weekday, the venue already had a significant number of visitors, all captivated by the thrilling shark defense game.

Source: TBS

The only child in Japan's 'puppet village'

Kuranosuke Kato is the only child in the Japanese village of Ichinono, a community that has become so depopulated that locals joke it is home to more puppets than people. Two-year-old Kato is the first child being raised in the village in two decades. (South China Morning Post)

Foreign Residents in Japan Exceed 3.5 Million, Tokyo's Indian Community Thrives

This year, the number of foreign residents in Japan surpassed 3.5 million, marking a record high. In Tokyo’s "Little India," there may be clues on how to build a harmonious coexistence.

Flu Infections Reach Alarm Levels in Tokyo for the First Time in Six Years

Influenza infections in Tokyo have reached alarm levels for the first time in six years. As the virus spreads, restaurants and hotels are struggling with a surge in last-minute cancellations during their peak earning season.

Ishiba to Move Into Official Residence Amid Ghost Rumors

Prime Minister Ishiba, who plans to move into the official residence as early as December 28th, addressed rumors that the residence is haunted, stating, "I'm from the Oba-Q generation, so I'm not afraid."

Serial Cyanide Killer Chisako Kakehi Dies in Custody

Chisako Kakehi, 78, who was on death row for poisoning three men with cyanide compounds, has died while in custody, according to reports. Authorities believe she may have died of natural causes.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Travel NEWS

Inside The Japanese Royal Family's "Old Money" Mansions

Forget everything you know about luxury mansions, because many homes in the Japanese Imperial family's collection of residences make Buckingham Palace look like a starter house. (Old Money Mansions)

The Japan voyage from Osaka to Ehime has the best cost performance ＆ Easy access

Tonight, i used the economy rooms on the “Orange Ferry”, which is convenient for traveling between Osaka and Ehime ☺️ It was an 8-hour journey, but there was a large public bath, a restaurant, and a game center on the ferry, so i was able to have a fun time (At JAPAN)

Huis Ten Bosch Illuminations Crowned Best in Japan for 10 Years Straight

Huis Ten Bosch in Nagasaki has achieved the top spot in Japan's nationwide illumination rankings for ten consecutive years. Dubbed 'the best in Japan,' this dazzling attraction draws visitors from across the globe.

Exploring the Greater Tokyo Area w the Sightseeing Taxi!

Today we’re trying out Tokyo’s sightseeing taxi! Whether you want to explore the greater Tokyo area or get a few sights in before you leave for the airport, this could be a great option for you. (franklin the woman)

USJ Super Nintendo World: Yoshi's Adventure Ride Full 2024

Yoshi’s Adventure ride is an omnimover attraction in Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan. It's a fun attraction that takes you around the Mushroom Kingdom searching for Captain Toad. (Hi Japan)

Kyoto’s Philosophers’ Path: Should It Be Paved or Left Untouched?

Debate is growing over whether Kyoto’s iconic Philosophers’ Path should be paved with asphalt or preserved in its natural state.

Countdown to the New Year: Best Times to Visit Shrines for ‘Hatsumode’

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.

Drone Footage Reveals Izu's Abandoned Hotels

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.

< 2 3 4 5 >