Latest news with #Kodo
Japan Today
17-07-2025
- Japan Today
Thinking about attending Earth Celebration on Sado? Tips on getting around and accommodation
If a trip to the beautiful and historic Sado Island, located off the coast of Niigata Prefecture, is on your bucket list – as it should be – then this might just be the perfect year to tick it off. Tickets to the island's beloved Earth Celebration 2025, which is just around the corner, are still available and accommodation is still not too difficult to come by – for now. Why not rent a car and traverse the mountains and coastlines of Sado? Stand upon the peaks of mountains, explore the winding tunnel mines, once filled with precious gold, or take a tub boat out to sea. A trip to Sado in 2025 promises to be great fun for the whole family. This year, the world-renowned Kodo taiko ensemble will once again return to their home base on Sado Island to headline three unforgettable nights of outdoor performances at the Harbour Concerts in Ogi Port alongside international guest artists. From August 22 to 24, their dynamic, heart-thumping drumming promises an exhilarating experience under the summer night sky. Music lovers from far and wide will gather on this historic island to celebrate the unifying power of rhythm and sound. But how do you get there? How to travel to and around Sado Island Sado Island is one of Japan's largest islands, rich in culture and natural beauty. Luckily, getting there is straightforward: it's recommended to take the shinkansen to Niigata Station, then make a beeline to Niigata Port (Sado Kisen terminal) to catch a ferry to Ryotsu Port on Sado. If you are arriving by car, you take the car ferry which takes approximately 2.5 hours or, for those without cars, you can speed things up by taking the jetfoil, approximately 67 minutes. If you're not arriving by car, consider renting one on the island. With its expansive landscape and scattered attractions, driving is the easiest and most flexible way to explore. With your own car, you'll have the freedom to roam around the island and visit its must-see destinations, including the UNESCO-listed Sado Kinzan Gold Mine. If you are thinking of renting, you need to book quickly! Earth Celebration draws in a large crowd to the island and car rentals go fast. If you can't drive, don't worry If driving isn't an option, there are other public and private transportation options. Although the cost can add up, taxis are available to take you all over the island and drop you off exactly where you need to be. Hotels will likely be able to help arrange taxis to and from the event spaces, so you can travel worry-free. For a more budget-friendly option, take advantage of the island's enhanced public transportation during the festival. The EC Express Bus (no reservation needed) and EC Charter Bus (reservation required) run among ports, hotels, and event venues. After the nightly Harbour Concerts, the EC Charter Buses will take you back to key locations like Ryotsu Port and Hotel Familio Sado Aikawa. For all transport queries, from car rental companies to bus timetables, check out the handy Earth Celebration Information Guide. It's a three-day festival; where will I stay? Image: Maiko Miyagawa Much like car rentals, hotels like Hotel Familio Sado Aikawa fill up fast during the festivities, especially those around Ogi Port,so we recommend you start looking at booking. Hotels such as Nipponia Sado, Ikoi Guesthouse & Cafe Bar, as well as Tabino Hotel Sado still have rooms available. There are also a handful of Airbnbs on the island if you value your privacy. Many of the hotels and guesthouses on the island are already fully booked over the festival dates, so booking soon is essential! Looking for something more adventurous? Festivalgoers will once again be able to camp out at Shiroyama Pop-up Campsite, which, until 2015, was the main event space for Earth Celebration. You don't even need to bring a tent with you, as tent rentals are available. Just make sure you reserve in advance. If you want to enjoy the sea, then Sobama Campground is ideal. It sits right on a sandy shore, where you can wake up, unzip your tent, and step into the sea. A shuttle service conveniently connects the campsite with Ogi Port, so you can get up for a morning swim and then, once refreshed and energized, you can head straight over to join the festivities. Sounds like a pretty good way to start the day. Come join in the fun at Earth Celebration 2025 Image: Maiko Miyagawa Earth Celebration is more than a music festival — it's an experience that blends culture, community, and nature on one of Japan's most enchanting islands. Book your ticket today and get ready to dance to the rhythm of the drum by the sea and beneath the stars. So what are you waiting for? To purchase your tickets for the Harbour Concerts as well as learn more about transportation and accommodation, head to: © Japan Today
Yomiuri Shimbun
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yomiuri Shimbun
Kodo Taiko Group Drummer Makes Homecoming Debut in Iwate Pref.
OSHU, Iwate — The pounding of taiko drums reverberated throughout a hall in Oshu, Iwate Prefecture, in mid-June as renowned taiko drum performance art ensemble Kodo performed for its Japan Tour. For Hana Ogawa, her debut with the group was also a homecoming. Having been recognized as a full member about a year ago, 23-year-old Ogawa showed off her elegant drumming technique in the middle of about 15 members at Oshu City Bunka Kaikan Z Hall on June 14. She and the group captivated about 900 audience members, including her family and friends, with their powerful drumbeats. Kodo was founded in 1981 and is based on Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture. The ensemble has performed over 7,500 shows in 54 countries and regions. The group also performed at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo in April. When Ogawa was a third grader in elementary school, she began playing the taiko at a local school after a friend invited her. She first saw Kodo perform live during her second year at Hanamaki Higashi High School. She was deeply moved by the sound of the taiko and the performance as well as the members' demeanor, which made her want to wear their hanten jacket and perform with them. After graduating from high school, Ogawa moved to Sado to live on her own and enrolled at Kodo. During her two-year training period, she devoted six days a week from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. to practicing the taiko, singing, dancing and running about 7 kilometers. She also cultivated her senses through learning tea ceremony and noh, and built up her lower body strength through farm work. In 2022, she became an associate member to accompany Kodo's tours. Students usually practice as an apprentice for a year before being selected as an official Kodo member. However, once one year passed, Ogawa was told that her apprenticeship would be extended. The leader, Yuichiro Funabashi, said that her performance was 'textbook-perfect, but lacked individuality and was unremarkable.' His point puzzled Ogawa, who thought, 'I'm giving it my all, so what else can I do?' While seeking advice from her colleagues, she realized something. Her eagerness to keep up with her seniors had taken the expression away from her face on stage and during practice. By trying to smile instead of aiming to be perfect, she gradually began to enjoy her performances more. After about four years since joining, she was selected as a regular member in January 2024, fulfilling her long-held dream. At the long-awaited homecoming show, she performed six pieces. 'I was nervous, and it felt like the show finished in a moment, although I've done the same performance elsewhere,' she said. Ogawa's friends and acquaintances came after the show to tell her things like, 'You looked great!' That made her happy as she could show them her efforts and progress. Ogawa said she is determined to stand on the world stage while spreading knowledge of taiko in Iwate Prefe
Yahoo
13-07-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
2026 Toyota RAV4 Vs. 2026 Mazda CX-5: 5 Major Differences Between The New Compact Crossovers
2026 Toyota RAV4 Vs. 2026 Mazda CX-5: 5 Major Differences Between The New Compact Crossovers originally appeared on Autoblog. Two of the most important compact crossovers sold in the United States have now been fully revealed in the space of a month or two. It started with the sixth-generation RAV4, which was shown in May, while this week, Mazda lifted the covers off its third-generation CX-5. Although we don't know all the specifications of these models yet, the manufacturers have shared enough for us to pick out five distinct differences between them. They may compete in the same segment, but they're not for exactly the same type of buyer. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The Toyota RAV4 has always been a slightly more rugged alternative to the classy, polished CX-5, and that hasn't changed when assessing the designs of these all-new generations of each. Where the new RAV4 relies on squared-off lines and angular body creases, the CX-5 prefers curvier proportions inspired by Mazda's Kodo design philosophy. Toyota has perhaps made more of a leap with the new RAV4: From its wraparound lights to distinct trim levels, such as the adventure-focused Woodland, there appears to be more variety in the RAV4's visual presentation. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Inside, it's a similar story. The RAV4 has a sportier look, especially on GR Sport models with their red trim. The new CX-5 features a more serene environment, glossier surfaces, and a less cluttered look. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Both models have taken steps forward in terms of infotainment tech. In the Toyota, a 10.5-inch touchscreen is standard, making way for a 12.9-inch unit on upper trims. However, Toyota has retained many large, legible buttons for things like the driving mode and climate control temperature. Mazda's new CX-5 features an available 15.6-inch touchscreen, the largest one ever equipped to a Mazda model, and easily trumps the size of the one in the Toyota. It's not known what size the standard touchscreen will be in the CX-5. What surprises us most for a brand like Mazda that has resisted touchscreens in the past is that the new CX-5 largely does away with physical controls - below the massive touchscreen, all you'll find are three buttons: One for the hazards and two for the defrosting functions. Even the old rotary controller is gone. Based on the respective layouts, the CX-5 has a classier cabin but the RAV4's one appears easier to operate. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article To complement their new display screens, both models have taken a leap forward in terms of software. The new RAV4 debuts Toyota's new Arene software development platform, which enables both new infotainment functions and driver-assistant features. Toyota touts improvements like a better voice assistant, a convenient home button (whether operating the system natively or with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto), and updates to the driver-assist features within the Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 suite. Mazda's new infotainment system in the CX-5 gets standard Google built-in, so Google-based apps are easily integrated. The setup includes Google Gemini, a smart AI assistant, and a range of apps from the Google Play Store. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Under the hood, there are quite a few differences. The new RAV4 now relies on hybrid power exclusively, with the base model being a conventional hybrid system with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It produces 226 horsepower with standard front-wheel drive and 236 hp with optional all-wheel drive. Mazda's base engine may come as a disappointment to some. It sticks with a non-hybrid 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 187 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque, so the base RAV4 should be easily quicker. The Mazda does get standard AWD, though, and a six-speed automatic. Moving up the trim structure, Toyota's weapon is a plug-in hybrid RAV4 with AWD and a stunning output of 320 hp. Besides the fact that it'll be one of the quickest Toyotas, it promises an all-electric range of 50 miles. Mazda has confirmed that it will launch a hybrid option for the CX-5 in 2027, but it's not expected to be a plug-in system. Although no technical details have been supplied, Drive reports that this new hybrid will have performance that's equal to or better than the CX-5's current turbo, which makes 256 hp. As things stand now, the RAV4 looks like a better performer, although the CX-5 has historically been more enjoyable to drive. We'll have to wait to get behind the wheel of both to see if that's still true. The RAV4 has always offered something for adventure-minded drivers, and that's still the case with the 2026 model. The new RAV4 Woodland will come with both hybrid powertrains, and although not a true off-roader, its higher ride height and all-terrain tires will make it a bit more capable over rough surfaces. This variant will also have a unique design, with a raised front-end and Rigid Industries LED lighting. Off-road trims of everyday crossovers have become popular, so this is a smart move by Toyota - Honda's popular TrailSport models and Subaru's Wilderness crossovers are other examples. Over at Mazda, no trim structure has been shared yet, but there was also no mention at all of any off-road pretensions. Mazda has left the mild off-roader stuff to the CX-50, saying it believes fully that these two compact crossovers can co-exist in the same segment. While many modern crossovers can be hard to tell apart, we appreciate that the new Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5 are not easily confused. As it did before, the Toyota digs deeper into hybridization, off-roading, and performance with its new PHEV. Mazda already sells the CX-50, so the new CX-5 is positioned as a more luxurious, high-tech, and refined vehicle. We expect its upper trims to be packed with features and impressive materials. The only question mark that remains with the Mazda is in the powertrain department - it will be at a distinct disadvantage compared to the Toyota until Mazda launches its new hybrid. The new RAV4 is scheduled to arrive first, later this year. In early 2026, it will be joined by the new CX-5. 2026 Toyota RAV4 Vs. 2026 Mazda CX-5: 5 Major Differences Between The New Compact Crossovers first appeared on Autoblog on Jul 12, 2025 This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Jul 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
Auto Blog
12-07-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
2026 Toyota RAV4 Vs. 2026 Mazda CX-5: 5 Major Differences Between The New Compact Crossovers
By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. These compact crossovers have distinct personalities Two of the most important compact crossovers sold in the United States have now been fully revealed in the space of a month or two. It started with the sixth-generation RAV4, which was shown in May, while this week, Mazda lifted the covers off its third-generation CX-5. Although we don't know all the specifications of these models yet, the manufacturers have shared enough for us to pick out five distinct differences between them. They may compete in the same segment, but they're not for exactly the same type of buyer. Previous Pause Next Unmute 0:00 / 0:10 Full screen Audi reveals sporty new A5/S5 with an emphasis on design Watch More 1. RAV4 More Rugged, CX-5 More Elegant 2026 Toyota RAV4 GR Sport 2026 Toyota RAV4 GR Sport 2026 Mazda CX-5 2026 Mazda CX-5 The Toyota RAV4 has always been a slightly more rugged alternative to the classy, polished CX-5, and that hasn't changed when assessing the designs of these all-new generations of each. Where the new RAV4 relies on squared-off lines and angular body creases, the CX-5 prefers curvier proportions inspired by Mazda's Kodo design philosophy. Toyota has perhaps made more of a leap with the new RAV4: From its wraparound lights to distinct trim levels, such as the adventure-focused Woodland, there appears to be more variety in the RAV4's visual presentation. Inside, it's a similar story. The RAV4 has a sportier look, especially on GR Sport models with their red trim. The new CX-5 features a more serene environment, glossier surfaces, and a less cluttered look. 2. Larger Touchscreen And Fewer Buttons For Mazda Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Both models have taken steps forward in terms of infotainment tech. In the Toyota, a 10.5-inch touchscreen is standard, making way for a 12.9-inch unit on upper trims. However, Toyota has retained many large, legible buttons for things like the driving mode and climate control temperature. Mazda's new CX-5 features an available 15.6-inch touchscreen, the largest one ever equipped to a Mazda model, and easily trumps the size of the one in the Toyota. It's not known what size the standard touchscreen will be in the CX-5. What surprises us most for a brand like Mazda that has resisted touchscreens in the past is that the new CX-5 largely does away with physical controls – below the massive touchscreen, all you'll find are three buttons: One for the hazards and two for the defrosting functions. Even the old rotary controller is gone. Based on the respective layouts, the CX-5 has a classier cabin but the RAV4's one appears easier to operate. 3. New Software: Toyota's Arene Meets Google Built-In To complement their new display screens, both models have taken a leap forward in terms of software. The new RAV4 debuts Toyota's new Arene software development platform, which enables both new infotainment functions and driver-assistant features. Toyota touts improvements like a better voice assistant, a convenient home button (whether operating the system natively or with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto), and updates to the driver-assist features within the Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 suite. Mazda's new infotainment system in the CX-5 gets standard Google built-in, so Google-based apps are easily integrated. The setup includes Google Gemini, a smart AI assistant, and a range of apps from the Google Play Store. 4. CX-5 Sticks With Non-Hybrid Standard Engine Under the hood, there are quite a few differences. The new RAV4 now relies on hybrid power exclusively, with the base model being a conventional hybrid system with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It produces 226 horsepower with standard front-wheel drive and 236 hp with optional all-wheel drive. Mazda's base engine may come as a disappointment to some. It sticks with a non-hybrid 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 187 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque, so the base RAV4 should be easily quicker. The Mazda does get standard AWD, though, and a six-speed automatic. Moving up the trim structure, Toyota's weapon is a plug-in hybrid RAV4 with AWD and a stunning output of 320 hp. Besides the fact that it'll be one of the quickest Toyotas, it promises an all-electric range of 50 miles. Source: Toyota Mazda has confirmed that it will launch a hybrid option for the CX-5 in 2027, but it's not expected to be a plug-in system. Although no technical details have been supplied, Drive reports that this new hybrid will have performance that's equal to or better than the CX-5's current turbo, which makes 256 hp. As things stand now, the RAV4 looks like a better performer, although the CX-5 has historically been more enjoyable to drive. We'll have to wait to get behind the wheel of both to see if that's still true. 5. Off-Road-Focused RAV4 Trims Source: Toyota The RAV4 has always offered something for adventure-minded drivers, and that's still the case with the 2026 model. The new RAV4 Woodland will come with both hybrid powertrains, and although not a true off-roader, its higher ride height and all-terrain tires will make it a bit more capable over rough surfaces. This variant will also have a unique design, with a raised front-end and Rigid Industries LED lighting. Off-road trims of everyday crossovers have become popular, so this is a smart move by Toyota – Honda's popular TrailSport models and Subaru's Wilderness crossovers are other examples. Over at Mazda, no trim structure has been shared yet, but there was also no mention at all of any off-road pretensions. Mazda has left the mild off-roader stuff to the CX-50, saying it believes fully that these two compact crossovers can co-exist in the same segment. Final Thoughts Source: Toyota/Mazda While many modern crossovers can be hard to tell apart, we appreciate that the new Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5 are not easily confused. As it did before, the Toyota digs deeper into hybridization, off-roading, and performance with its new PHEV. Mazda already sells the CX-50, so the new CX-5 is positioned as a more luxurious, high-tech, and refined vehicle. We expect its upper trims to be packed with features and impressive materials. The only question mark that remains with the Mazda is in the powertrain department – it will be at a distinct disadvantage compared to the Toyota until Mazda launches its new hybrid. The new RAV4 is scheduled to arrive first, later this year. In early 2026, it will be joined by the new CX-5. About the Author Karl Furlong View Profile
Motor 1
10-07-2025
- Automotive
- Motor 1
'It's Our Future Direction:' The New CX-5 Will Inspire All Future Mazda Designs
Mazda introduced its "Kodo" design language in 2010 with the debut of the stunning Shinari concept. From that point on, every production Mazda for the next 15 years would use that concept as its template—from the Miata sports car to the CX-90 SUV. The arrival of the 2026 CX-5 , though, tweaks that formula slightly. Mazda's best-selling SUV wears an evolved version of the automaker's signature Kodo design language, complete with a new stacked headlight treatment, updated taillights, and a fresh "MAZDA" logo wordmark. Photo by: Mazda Speaking with Stefan Meisterfeld, VP of Strategic Planning for Mazda North America, he notes that this updated look will, in part, inspire most Mazda products moving forward. "I would say the new CX-5 is a pioneer of a slightly evolved design language," Meisterfeld tells Motor1 . "Some elements of it you may see on future vehicles as well… It's our future direction. And yeah, you would see more of these elements in future vehicles." It's not just the exterior, either. The CX-5 sports a 15.6-inch central touchscreen with a new minimalist interior design. It's the first Mazda product with the new touchscreen, and both the technology and the cabin design should make their way to more Mazda vehicles in the future. Photo by: Mazda Unfortunately, that's bad news for fans of Mazda's outgoing Commander controller. Mazda is ditching its rotary dial and moving most hard most controls—including the volume knob—to the steering wheel. Other functions will be managed via the center touchscreen. The new Mazda CX-5 goes on sale later this year, but we'll have to wait a few months for pricing. What's Next For Mazda? Mazda Is Going Premium. What Does That Mean for the Miata? Mazda Will Put a Bigger Engine in the Next Miata Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
