Travel

Kyoto Wraps Pine Trees to Ward Off Winter Pests

KYOTO, Oct 09 (News On Japan) - Traditional 'komo wrapping' was carried out to protect pine trees from pests in Fukuchiyama, Kyoto Prefecture, on October 8th.

The komo wrapping of the pines took place at Sandanike Park in Fukuchiyama. Workers steadily tied the straw-made "komo" to around 100 pine trees planted around the pond using rough ropes.

The komo wrapping is a traditional method of preventing pine trees from dying. During winter, pests that gather in the komo to escape the cold are burned along with the komo before spring arrives, allowing pest control without the use of chemicals.

In recent years, some have questioned the effectiveness of this method. However, Sandanike Park continues the tradition as a seasonal event during "Kanro," one of the 24 solar terms marking the deepening of autumn. The pine trees, now wrapped with komo, are prepared early for the coming winter.

Source: YOMIURI

Japan's Tuition-Free High School Program Expanded Nationwide

The Japanese government has decided to expand its tuition-free high school program this spring. Public high school tuition is now completely free regardless of household income, and starting next academic year, the scope of support for private schools will also be broadened.

Exploring the Mystery of Okinawa's Royal Tomb

Shuri Castle, a symbol of Okinawa's Ryukyu heritage, suffered extensive damage in a devastating fire in October 2019 that destroyed the main hall and many other structures. The cause of the blaze remains unknown.

Lack of Carpenters Causing Construction Delays

A deepening labor shortage in Japan’s construction industry is beginning to impact homebuyers, with some experiencing delays of more than six months before construction can even begin due to a lack of available carpenters.

Japan's Imperial Household Launches YouTube Channel

The Imperial Household Agency launched an official YouTube channel on April 1st to introduce the activities of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.

New Recruits Across Japan Mark First Day as Working Adults

Japan's new fiscal year began on April 1st, with companies across the country holding entrance ceremonies to welcome new employees.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Travel NEWS

11-Story Complex to Be Built at Fukuoka Airport

A groundbreaking ceremony was held for a new multi-purpose complex directly connected to the domestic terminal at Fukuoka Airport.

Water Show to be Held Every Night at Osaka Expo

'Parade of Blue and the Night Rainbow' is a water and air spectacle show scheduled to be held during the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo.

Osaka Expands Indoor Smoking Ban

From April 1st, a new regulation took effect across Osaka Prefecture requiring all restaurants with a customer seating area larger than 30 square meters to become entirely smoke-free indoors—unless they install a designated smoking room. Establishments violating the rule face fines of up to 50,000 yen, while customers may be fined up to 30,000 yen.

'Princess Procession' Draws Crowds in Hamamatsu

A traditional spring event known as the 'Himesama Dochu' (Princess Procession) was held in Hamamatsu City, drawing large crowds along the route.

Tokyo's Cherry Blossoms Bloom Early This Year

The Japan Meteorological Agency announced on March 30th that cherry blossoms (Somei-Yoshino) in central Tokyo have reached full bloom, one day earlier than the historical average and five days earlier than last year.

Shinmoedake Eruption Alert Raised to Level 3 as Volcanic Activity Increases

The eruption alert level for Mount Shinmoedake, part of the Kirishima mountain range on the border of Kagoshima and Miyazaki prefectures, has been raised to Level 3, or "entry restrictions," due to increased volcanic activity.

Okayama | 3-Day Suggested Itinerary

Explore the hidden gem of Okayama Prefecture, known for its scenic canals, top-tier garden, and famous folktale. Follow along on a three-day adventure through Kurashiki, the Kibiji District, Korakuen garden and Uno Port, the gateway to Japan’s art islands. (japan-guide.com)

Japan Pavilion Opens at Expo

An opening ceremony was held Saturday for the Japan Pavilion at the Osaka-Kansai Expo. As the host country's main exhibit, the pavilion is positioned as the symbolic "face" of the Expo, welcoming visitors from around the world with a presentation of Japan's culture of circularity.

< 2 3 4 5 >