The Triennale, an international art exhibition held every three years in Yokohama, Japan, recently showcased the work of 79 artists from around the world.
This was the fifth edition of the Triennale contemporary art exhibition.
Yokohama has embraced a variety of different ideas and values, while promoting modern and contemporary culture.
"Under the "Creative City Yokohama" policy, Yokohama is committed to promoting innovative urban growth by producing art centers and studios for the creators. It utilizes the abandoned buildings through our activities, delivering the appeal of art that communicates to the citizens," said Eriko Osaka, Museum Director, Yokohama Museum of Art.
The Yokohama Triennale has taken root as a leading project with non-profit organizations in this endeavor.
In addition to the main venue at Yokohama Museum, exhibition programs were held by connecting with art centers and various districts of Yokohama.
In 2014, Yokohama was designated as one of the 'Culture Cities of East Asia 2014' program.
Followed by Yokohama Triennale, "Fictive Communities Asia"- an international art exhibition, was held at Koganecho Bazaar.
"My name is UuDam Nguyen, I'm from Vietnam. I'm very happy to be here in Koganecho, Yokohama to participate in a very exciting art event. I'm showing my work here called "License 2 Draw". This is an app that anybody in Asia or the world can download and paint or draw with me in Yokohama for the next two months," said Uudam Tran Nguyen an artist from Vietnam.
Art works were also displayed at various spaces including the studios under the railway-bridge, small buildings and empty lots.
"This is my exhibition site, it's under the railways and upstairs of the some of the Koganecho management areas offices, one is in the book store, sewing shop and workshop. A lot has happening with the programs of the Triennale in Koganecho Bazar, as well as all the other art events happening in Tokyo. This is just like the whole bunch of the art field trip," said Zeus Bascon, an artist from Phillipines.
Kyoto city, which was Japan's capital for over a millennium, today has acquired the reputation of the most beautiful city.
The city, which has palaces, shrines and temples, has much to offer to tourists.
Japanese courier company Yamato Transport, which is also known as Ta-Q-bin, operates the Kuroneko Tourist Information Service in front of the famous Yasaka Shrine Tower.
It offers tourist services such as the use of free Internet, tea, restroom, mobile charging and town information.
Travelers can drop off their baggage for a day, or use Yamato Transport's Ta-Q-bin service to send baggage to the hotel or the airport.
Useful town guide is available in multiple languages from the Yamato Transport staff.
"We found this is a very good place to store your luggage, and have some tea. We suggest to everyone," said tourists from Taiwan.
"On a busy day, we welcome about 200 tourists visit here. We provide tourist services such as free Wi-Fi, and use of toilet, which has very good reputations for the international visitors," said Toshiko Watanabe, Guest Operator Leader, Yamato Transport Co., Ltd.
"It's nice air conditioned, tea service is great," said Japanese tourists.
After a tea break, tourists can explore Kyoto city empty handed.
The Kuroneko Tourist Information Service is also available at the Arashiyama Station, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kyoto.
The office is directly connected from the train platform. Visitors can drop off their baggage as soon as they arrive at the station.
"I am from Australia, Afford was good, everyone was very polite, good English," said Australian tourists.
"Since Yamato Transport is operating delivery using train from this station in order to reduce CO2 emissions, our office here has built inside the station. Then we started tourist information guide to offer service based on community where invites many tourists from abroad," said Shino Kannabe, Guest Operator, Yamato Transport Co., Ltd.
Yamato Transport is also promoting ecological transportations in Kyoto.
