Buddhika Weerasinghe

Kobe Landmarks And Shopping Area.

2018-03-27T16:45:00.000+09:00

The Kobe Tower, left, the Hotel Okura Kobe, center, and the Kobe Maritime Museum stand illuminated at night at Meriken Park in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2018.

A woman poses for a photograph with a sign at Meriken Park in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2018

Shoppers walk past a shoe store in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2018.

A Sale signs are displayed at a clothing store in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2018

A customer shops inside a shoe store in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2018.

A set of ornamental dolls known as hina-ningyo is displayed at a Daimaru department store in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2018.

Add captA woman uses her mobile phone in front of a Zara store, operated by Inditex SA, in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2018.ion

A woman walks past a window display at a kimono store in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2018.

Buildings and highways stand illuminated at night at Port Island in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2018.

A 'Tax Free' sign is displayed in front of retail stores in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2018.

Sri Lanka Ahead Celebrate 70th Independent Day

2018-02-02T17:18:00.000+09:00

Sri Lankan military carrying the national flags during the 70th Independence Day celebration rehearsal on February 2, 2018 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Sri Lankan Special Task Force (STF) during the 70th Independence Day celebration rehearsal on February 2, 2018 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Sri Lankan Army officers dressed in ceremonial costume during the 70th Independence Day celebration rehearsal on February 2, 2018 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Sri Lankan Army officer participates in the 70th Independence Day celebration rehearsal on February 2, 2018 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Sri Lankan female police officers sit on a bench during the 70th Independence Day celebration rehearsal on February 2, 2018 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Sri Lankan Special Task Force (STF) stand next to a military vehicle during the 70th Independence Day celebration rehearsal on February 2, 2018 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Himeji Castle

2017-05-12T15:55:00.000+09:00

Special visitors hold torch lights as custom during the open air Takigi-Noh performance front of the Himeji castle at the Sannomaru Park on May 12, 2017 in Himeji, Japan. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe.

@Buddhika Weerasinhge

Festival lanterns are pictured front of the Himeji castle May 11, 2017 in Himeji, Japan. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe.

Himeji Castle main tower is seen through cherry blossoms during the Himeji Castle Cherry Blossoms Festival on April 12, 2017 in Himeji, Japan. Photo by Buddhika Weerainghe

UNESCO World Heritage site Himeji Castle is seen at sunrise

The image of Japanese kimono design is projected onto a wall, using digital 3D mapping technology during the media day of Himeji Castle Night Adventure on November 29, 2016 in Himeji, Japan

Light up Himeji Castle night view is pictured on November 29, 2016 in Himeji, Japan

Japanese traditional actors perform during the annual Himeji Takigi-Noh front of the Himeji castle at the Sannomaru park on May 12,2017 in Himeji, Japan. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

UNESCO World Heritage site Himeji Castle is seen at sunrise

Japanese traditional actors perform during the annual Himeji Takigi-Noh front of the Himeji castle at the Sannomaru park on May 12,2017 in Himeji, Japan. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

UNESCO World Heritage site Himeji Castle is seen at sunrise

Spring Season Starts in Japan

2017-02-04T14:15:00.000+09:00

A couple is silhouetted as they take a photograph while watching the sun set during the first day of spring at the Shinmaiko beach on February 4, 2017 in Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. The Spring season started today according to the Japanese lunar calendar.

@Buddhika Weerasinghe

A group of peopleare silhouetted as they take a photograph while watching the sun set during the first day of spring at the Shinmaiko beach on February 4, 2017 in Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. The Spring season started today according to the Japanese lunar calendar.

A couple is silhouetted as they walk while watching the sun set during the first day of spring at the Shinmaiko beach on February 4, 2017 in Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. The Spring season started today according to the Japanese lunar calendar.

Two woman poses a photo as enjoy at the rapeseed flower field during the first day of spring on February 4, 2017 in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Spring season started on today according to the Japanese lunar calendar.

A young girl is silhouetted as she runs while watching the sun set during the first day of spring at the Shinmaiko beach on February 4, 2017 in Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. The Spring season started today according to the Japanese lunar calendar.

A bird sits in the rapeseed flowers at abandon rice field during the first day of spring on February 4, 2017 in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Spring season started on today according to the Japanese lunar calenda

Full bloomed rapeseed flowers are pictured during the first day of spring on February 4, 2017 in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Spring season started on today according to the Japanese lunar calendar.

Japan Prepares For Valentine's Day

2017-02-01T13:57:00.000+09:00

A woman of sales staff holds a Valentine's Day chocolate box as show to customers at the Hankyu Department Store on February 1, 2017 in Osaka, Japan. The Hankyu department Store has opened special floor sales to 270 brands of Japanese and foreign chocolates ahead Valentine Day. From the end of January, department stores in Japan set up a special section for chocolates to accommodate the Japanese Valentine's Day culture, where women give chocolates to their partner, family, friends and colleagues on Valentine's Day

@Buddhika Weerasinghe

A member of the sales staff walks beside the men's ties display corner at a Hankyu Department Store on February 1, 2017 in Osaka, Japan. The Hankyu department Store has opened special floor sales to 270 brands of Japanese and foreign chocolates ahead Valentine Day. From the end of January, department stores in Japan set up a special section for chocolates to accommodate the Japanese Valentine's Day culture, where women give chocolates to their partner, family, friends and colleagues on Valentine's Day.

A couple looks Valentine's Day chocolate ice cream advertisement display window of the Hankyu Department Store on February 1, 2017 in Osaka, Japan. The Hankyu department Store has opened special floor sales to 270 brands of Japanese and foreign chocolates ahead Valentine Day. From the end of January, department stores in Japan set up a special section for chocolates to accommodate the Japanese Valentine's Day culture, where women give chocolates to their partner, family, friends and colleagues on Valentine's Day.

A Valentine's Day chocolate box is pictured at a Hankyu Department Store on February 1, 2017 in Osaka, Japan. The Hankyu department Store has opened special floor sales to 270 brands of Japanese and foreign chocolates ahead Valentine Day. From the end of January, department stores in Japan set up a special section for chocolates to accommodate the Japanese Valentine's Day culture, where women give chocolates to their partner, family, friends and colleagues on Valentine's Day

A Valentine's Day chocolate cake with red roses is seen display window at a Takashimaya Department Store on February 1, 2017 in Osaka, Japan. The Takashimaya department Store has opened special floor sales to 110 brands of Japanese and foreign chocolates ahead Valentine Day. From the end of January, department stores in Japan set up a special section for chocolates to accommodate the Japanese Valentine's Day culture, where women give chocolates to their partner, family, friends and colleagues on Valentine's Day

An employee makes Valentine's Day animal chocolates at a Hankyu Department Store on February 1, 2017 in Osaka, Japan. Department stores in Japan set up a special section for chocolates to accommodate the Japanese Valentine's Day culture, where women give chocolates to their partner, family, friends and colleagues on Valentine's Day.

A member of the sales staff stand next to a ladies shoe made of chocolate for Valentine's Day at a Takashimaya Department Store on February 1, 2017 in Osaka, Japan. The Takashimayadepartment Store has opened special floor sales to 110 brands of Japanese and foreign chocolates ahead Valentine Day. From the end of January, department stores in Japan set up a special section for chocolates to accommodate the Japanese Valentine's Day culture, where women give chocolates to their partner, family, friends and colleagues on Valentine's Day.

Members of the sales staff arrange samples of Valentine's Day chocolate pieces for customers at a Takashimaya Department Store on February 1, 2017 in Osaka, Japan. The Takashimaya department Store has opened special floor sales to 110 brands of Japanese and foreign chocolates ahead Valentine Day. From the end of January, department stores in Japan set up a special section for chocolates to accommodate the Japanese Valentine's Day culture, where women give chocolates to their partner, family, friends and colleagues on Valentine's Day.

A customer shops Valentine's Day chocolates on display at a Hankyu Department Store on February 1, 2017 in Osaka, Japan. The Hankyu department Store has opened special floor sales to 270 brands of Japanese and foreign chocolates ahead Valentine Day. From the end of January, department stores in Japan set up a special section for chocolates to accommodate the Japanese Valentine's Day culture, where women give chocolates to their partner, family, friends and colleagues on Valentine's Day.

A brochure of Valentine's Day chocolate brands hold by sales staff at a Hankyu Department Store on February 1, 2017 in Osaka, Japan. The Hankyu department Store has opened special floor sales to 270 brands of Japanese and foreign chocolates ahead Valentine Day. From the end of January, department stores in Japan set up a special section for chocolates to accommodate the Japanese Valentine's Day culture, where women give chocolates to their partner, family, friends and colleagues on Valentine's Day

Company logos and Signs

2017-01-08T16:54:00.002+09:00

Company logos are displayed outside an electronics department store on December 14,2016 in Osaka, Japan.

Signage for Sharp Corp. is displayed atop the company's headquarters in Osaka, Japan on Friday, Feb 5, 2016

A logo of the AEON Mall Co., Ltd. display outside the mall building in Himeji, Japan. (photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

Japanese auto parts maker Takata Corp sign at the at the company's Echigawa plant on November 25, 2016 in Echigawa, Shiga Prefecture, Japan. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

A logo of the convenience store operated by Lawson A logo of the Lawson, Inc is a convenience store franchise in Japan. (Phot by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

A road construction employee works in a road as Japanese auto parts maker Takata Corp sign at the at the company's Echigawa plant on November 25, 2016 in Echigawa, Shiga Prefecture, Japan.(Phot by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

Daikon Radish Harvest And Drying

2016-11-02T15:25:00.000+09:00

A JA Hyogo Nishi Agricultural Cooperative worker hangs freshly harvested Daikon radishes onto a scaffolding-frame to dry in the production of pickles in Shiso, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2016. (Photo by Bu8ddhika weerasinghe)

@Buddhika Weerasinghe

A farmer handles a Daikon radish while harvesting the vegetable at a field in Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2016. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

A farmer picks up a Daikon radish during the vegetable's harvest at a field in Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2016. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

Farmers load freshly harvested Daikon radishes onto a trailer at a field in Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2016. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

Farmers harvest Daikon radishes at a field in Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2016 (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

Daikon radish plants grow in a field in Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2016. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

Daikon radishes sit in the soil of a field in Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2016. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

Farmers use an excavator to load freshly harvested Daikon radishes onto a truck from a trailer in a field in Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2016. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

Daikon radish plants grow in a field in Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2016.

Festival Cuture in Japan

2016-10-15T16:51:00.000+09:00

Men of Matsubara team carrying their Yatai, or portable shrine arrive at the Matsubara Shrine on the first day of Nada Fighting Festival at the Matsubara Shrine on October 14, 2016 in Himeji, Japan.

@Buddhika Weerasinghe

Men of Nakamura village use salt to purify their body as ritual before carrying Mikoshi or portable shrine on the second day of Nada Fighting Festival the Matsubara Shrine on October 15, 2016 in Himeji, Japan

Men of Nakamura team dry their wet festival outfit after the ritual of pray and cleanse ceremony on the second day of Nada Fighting Festival on October 15, 2016 in Himeji, Japan.

Men of Nakamura team carry their team leaders and walk out of sea during the ritual of pray and cleanse ceremony on the second day of Nada Fighting Festival on October 15, 2016 in Himeji, Japan.

Men perform the dragon dance on the second day of Nada Fighting Festival at the Matsubara Shrine on October 15, 2016 in Himeji, Japan.

Matsubara team man poses for a photo after putting on the proper festival outfit ahead of the first day of Nada Fighting Festival at the Matsubara Shrine on October 14, 2016 in Himeji, Japan.

A woman takes photos of festival participants on the first day of Nada Fighting Festival at the Matsubara Shrine on October 14, 2016 in Himeji, Japan

Men of Matsubara team carry their Yatai, or portable shrine on the first day of Nada Fighting Festival at the Matsubara Shrine on October 14, 2016 in Himeji, Japan.

Men dressed in the traditional festival outfit carry bamboo poles decorated with colored papers on the first day of Nada Fighting Festival on October 14, 2016 in Himeji, Japan.

Men carrying their Yatai, or portable shrine on October 7, 2016 in Himeji, Japan.

Men of Nakamura team carry a flag of Mikoshi, or portable shrine walk out of sea during the ritual of pray and cleanse ceremony on the second day of Nada Fighting Festival on October 15, 2016 in Himeji, Japan.

Men carrying their Yatai, or portable shrine on October 7, 2016 in Himeji, Japan.

Men of Nakamura team walk out of sea after the ritual of pray and cleanse ceremony on the second day of Nada Fighting Festival on October 15, 2016 in Himeji, Japan.

Eyeglass Manufacturing In Japan's Center Of Eyewear

2016-08-18T22:07:00.000+09:00

An employee uses a crating lens as works on a titanium eyeglass frame at Takeuchi Optical Industry Co., LTD on August 18, 2016 in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan.

Eyeglasses are pictured on a table at the Meage Museum shop on August 18, 2016 in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan.

Eyeglass frames are stacked together at the Takeuchi Optical Industry Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016.

A designer draws a sketch for a Japonism brand eyeglass frame at the Boston Club Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2016

Titanium eyeglasses sit on a table at the Takeuchi Optical Industry Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2016.

A worker inspects a pair of celluloid eyeglass frames at the Makoto Optical Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016.

A craftsman shapes a pair of celluloid eyeglass frames at the Makoto Optical Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016.

A sign featuring a pair of eyeglasses is displayed in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2016

An employee inspects a pair of Ayumi brand celluloid eyeglass frames at the Makoto Optical Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016

An employee inspects shape of titanium eyeglass frame on the production line of the factory at Takeuchi Optical Industry CO.,LTD in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan on Wednesday Aug. 17, 2016.

An employee inspects a pair of Ayumi brand celluloid eyeglass frames at the Makoto Optical Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016.

An eyeglass sculpture is displayed in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2016

A 3D printed eyeglass frame of the Japonism brand sits on a table at the Boston Club Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2016.

A craftsman shapes a pair of celluloid eyeglass frames at the Makoto Optical Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016

A craftsman shapes a pair of celluloid eyeglass frames in a workshop at the Makoto Optical Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016.

The Megane Museum stands in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016.

Files and a set of calipers sit next to eyeglass frames on a table at the Makoto Optical Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan on Thursday Aug. 18, 2016.

Workers shape celluloid eyeglass frames at the Makoto Optical Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016

An eyeglass sculpture is displayed in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2016.

An eyeglass sculpture is displayed in downtown Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2016

An employee designs a Japonism brand of eyeglass frame at the Boston Club Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2016

Employees polish celluloid eyeglass frames at the Makoto Optical Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016.

An employee uses a crating lens as works on a titanium eyeglass frame at Takeuchi Optical Industry Co., LTD on August 18, 2016 in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan.

A master mold for an eyeglass-frame part sits on a table at the Takeuchi Optical Industry Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2016.

An employee works on metal eyeglass frames production line at the Takeuchi Optical Industry Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2016.

An employee arranges eyeglasses on display in a showroom at the Megane Museum in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan on Thursday Aug. 18, 2016.

Titanium eyeglass frames pictured on a production line at Takeuchi Optical Industry Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2016.

mployees manufacture eyeglass frames at the Takeuchi Optical Industry Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016.

A pair of Ayumi brand eyeglasses sit on a table at the Makoto Optical Co. production facility in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016

Japanese Aoi Festival Celebrated In Kyoto

2016-05-15T15:58:00.000+09:00

Women dressed in Heian Period costumes walk in the procession of the Aoi Festival at Shimogamo Shrine on May 15, 2016 in Kyoto, Japan. Aoi Festival is one of the three main festivals of ancient capital of Kyoto that festival is dating back 1,400 years. About 500 participants dressed as nobles of the Heian Period (794-1185) costumes, walk with decorated ox carts and horses around eight kilometers from Kyoto Imperial Palace to Shimogamo and Kamigamo shrines, with approximately 15,000 visitors gathered along the route. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

@Buddhika Weerasinghe

Shinto shrine priest walk to attend ritual ceremony during the Aoi Festival at Shimogamo Shrine on May 15,2016 in Kyoto, Japan. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

The 'SAoi-dai' (L) queen, principle figure of festival wearing a 12-layered ceremonial kimono of Heian Period court ladies called Junihitoe, sits on stage in a ritual ceremony during the Aoi Festival at Shimogamo Shrine on May 15,2016 in Kyoto, Japan (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

Rice Planting in Terraced Paddy Fields

2016-05-14T16:59:00.000+09:00

Terraced rice fields are seen in the Nakayama District of Shodo Island, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, on Saturday, May 14, 2016.

@Buddhika weerasinghe

A rice farmer walks through terraced paddy fields in the Nakayama District of Shodo Island, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, on Saturday, May 14, 2016

A farmer plants rice seedlings in terraced paddy fields in the Nakayama District of Shodo Island, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, on Saturday, May 14, 2016.

Farmers plant rice seedlings in terraced paddy fields in the Nakayama District of Shodo Island, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, on Saturday, May 14, 2016.

Rice grows in terraced paddy fields in the Nakayama District of Shodo Island, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, on Saturday, May 14, 2016.

Farmers plant rice seedlings in terraced paddy fields in the Nakayama District of Shodo Island, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, on Saturday, May 14, 2016

Terraced rice fields are seen in the Nakayama District of Shodo Island, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, on Saturday, May 14, 2016

University students plant rice seedlings in terraced paddy fields in the Nakayama District of Shodo Island, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, on Saturday, May 14, 2016

University students prepare to plant rice seedlings in terraced paddy fields in the Nakayama District of Shodo Island, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, on Saturday, May 14, 2016.

Terraced rice fields are seen in the Nakayama District of Shodo Island, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, on Saturday, May 14, 2016

A farmer plants rice seedlings in terraced paddy fields in the Nakayama District of Shodo Island, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, on Saturday, May 14, 2016.

Meotoiwa Ooshimenawahari Ceremony

2016-05-05T13:07:00.000+09:00

Sun rise between the 'Meoto-Iwa' or couple rocks and over the sea ahead of the Oshimenawahari ceremony at Futami Okitama Shrine on May 5, 2016 in Ise, Japan. The Oshimenawahari ceremony is held three times a year to exchange the 35 meters long heavy rope made of rice straw that connects the sacred Couple Rock - one small, one big. The Couple Rock serves as a gate to the Okitama Shrine, dedicated to the god Sarutahiko and goddess Ukanomitama from Japanese myth.

@Buddhika weerasinghe

Japanese Shinto shrine priests hang the shimenawa, or the sacred ropes, between the Meotoiwa, or the sacred Couple Rock during the Oshimenawahari ceremony at Futami Okitama Shrine on May 5, 2016 in Ise, Japan. The Oshimenawahari ceremony is held three times a year to exchange the 35 meters long heavy rope made of rice straw that connects the sacred Couple Rock - one small, one big. The Couple Rock serves as a gate to the Okitama Shrine, dedicated to the god Sarutahiko and goddess Ukanomitama from Japanese myth.

A man walks beside the 'Meoto-Iwa' or couple rocks while sun rise between the 'Meoto-Iwa' or couple rocks and over the sea ahead of the Oshimenawahari ceremony at Futami Okitama Shrine on May 5, 2016 in Ise, Japan. The Oshimenawahari ceremony is held three times a year to exchange the 35 meters long heavy rope made of rice straw that connects the sacred Couple Rock - one small, one big. The Couple Rock serves as a gate to the Okitama Shrine, dedicated to the god Sarutahiko and goddess Ukanomitama from Japanese myth

'Meoto-Iwa' or couple rocks pictured ahead of the Oshimenawahari ceremony at Futami Okitama Shrine on May 5, 2016 in Ise, Japan. The Oshimenawahari ceremony is held three times a year to exchange the 35 meters long heavy rope made of rice straw that connects the sacred Couple Rock - one small, one big. The Couple Rock serves as a gate to the Okitama Shrine, dedicated to the god Sarutahiko and goddess Ukanomitama from Japanese myth.

Japanese Shinto shrine priests carry the Shimenawa, Sacred ropes for hang to between God Married Stones during the Oshimenawahari ceremony of Meoto-iwa or the Couple Rock at Futami Okitama Shrine on May 5, 2016 in Ise, Japan. The Oshimenawahari ceremony is held three times a year to exchange the 35 meters long heavy rope made of rice straw that connects the sacred Couple Rock - one small, one big. The Couple Rock serves as a gate to the Okitama Shrine, dedicated to the god Sarutahiko and goddess Ukanomitama from Japanese myth.

People touch shimenawa, or the sacred ropes during the Oshimenawahari ceremony at Futami Okitama Shrine on May 5, 2016 in Ise, Japan. The Oshimenawahari ceremony is held three times a year to exchange the 35 meters long heavy rope made of rice straw that connects the sacred Couple Rock - one small, one big. The Couple Rock serves as a gate to the Okitama Shrine, dedicated to the god Sarutahiko and goddess Ukanomitama from Japanese myth

A Shrine maiden walks as arrive to attend the Oshimenawahari ceremony at Futami Okitama Shrine on May 5, 2016 in Ise, Japan. The Oshimenawahari ceremony is held three times a year to exchange the 35 meters long heavy rope made of rice straw that connects the sacred Couple Rock - one small, one big. The Couple Rock serves as a gate to the Okitama Shrine, dedicated to the god Sarutahiko and goddess Ukanomitama from Japanese myth.

A Shrine priest attends the Oshimenawahari ceremony at Futami Okitama Shrine on May 5, 2016 in Ise, Japan. The Oshimenawahari ceremony is held three times a year to exchange the 35 meters long heavy rope made of rice straw that connects the sacred Couple Rock - one small, one big. The Couple Rock serves as a gate to the Okitama Shrine, dedicated to the god Sarutahiko and goddess Ukanomitama from Japanese myth.

A man prays at Futami Okitama Shrine on May 5, 2016 in Ise, Japan. The Oshimenawahari ceremony is held three times a year to exchange the 35 meters long heavy rope made of rice straw that connects the sacred Couple Rock - one small, one big. The Couple Rock serves as a gate to the Okitama Shrine, dedicated to the god Sarutahiko and goddess Ukanomitama from Japanese myth.

Shimenawa, or the sacred ropes, placed in the shrine ahead the Oshimenawahari ceremony at Futami Okitama Shrine on May 5, 2016 in Ise, Japan. The Oshimenawahari ceremony is held three times a year to exchange the 35 meters long heavy rope made of rice straw that connects the sacred Couple Rock - one small, one big. The Couple Rock serves as a gate to the Okitama Shrine, dedicated to the god Sarutahiko and goddess Ukanomitama from Japanese myth.

Shrine priest holds paper fan and attend the Oshimenawahari ceremony at Futami Okitama Shrine on May 5, 2016 in Ise, Japan. The Oshimenawahari ceremony is held three times a year to exchange the 35 meters long heavy rope made of rice straw that connects the sacred Couple Rock - one small, one big. The Couple Rock serves as a gate to the Okitama Shrine, dedicated to the god Sarutahiko and goddess Ukanomitama from Japanese myth.

Hoist Colorful Carp Streamers In Preparation To Celebrate Children Day

2016-04-28T20:00:00.003+09:00

A man hangs cable as he prepares to hoist colorful Koinobori or carp streamers over the Akutagawa river at Akutagawa Sakurazutumi Park on April 24, 2016 in Takatsuki, Japan. Koinobori, meaning 'carp streamer', are traditionally flown in Japan to celebrate Tango no sekku, or Children's Day. Children's Day takes place on May 5 and is also a National Holiday.

@Buddhika Weerasinghe

A boy ply under the colorful Koinobori or carp streamers at Akutagawa Sakurazutumi Park on April 24, 2016 in Takatsuki, Japan. Koinobori, meaning 'carp streamer', are traditionally flown in Japan to celebrate Tango no sekku, or Children's Day. Children's Day takes place on May 5 and is also a National Holiday.

A family sit with children under the colorful Koinobori or carp streamers on April 24,2016 at Akutagawa Sakurazutumi Park, in Takatsuki, Japan. Koinobori, meaning 'carp streamer', are traditionally flown in Japan to celebrate Tango no sekku, or Children's Day. Children's Day takes place on May 5 and is also a National Holiday.

A man stands on a crain as he prepares to hoist colorful Koinobori or carp streamers over the Akutagawa river at Akutagawa Sakurazutumi Park, on April 24, 2016 in Takatsuki, Japan. Koinobori, meaning 'carp streamer', are traditionally flown in Japan to celebrate Tango no sekku, or Children's Day. Children's Day takes place on May 5 and is also a National Holiday.

A man walks with his son as he holds a fishing net as he prepares to hoist colorful Koinobori or carp streamers over the Akutagawa river at Akutagawa Sakurazutumi Park on April 24, 2016 in Takatsuki, Japan. Koinobori, meaning 'carp streamer', are traditionally flown in Japan to celebrate Tango no sekku, or Children's Day. Children's Day takes place on May 5 and is also a National Holiday.

Colorful Koinobori or carp streamers fly over the Akutagawa river at Akutagawa Sakurazutumi Park, on April 24, 2016 in Takatsuki, Japan. Koinobori, meaning 'carp streamer', are traditionally flown in Japan to celebrate Tango no sekku, or Children's Day. Children's Day takes place on May 5 and is also a National Holiday.

People hoist colorful Koinobori or carp streamers into the air over the Akutagawa river at Akutagawa Sakurazutumi Park on April 24, 2016 in Takatsuki, Japan. Koinobori, meaning 'carp streamer', are traditionally flown in Japan to celebrate Tango no sekku, or Children's Day. Children's Day takes place on May 5 and is also a National Holiday.

A woman prepares to hoist colorful Koinobori or carp streamers into the air at Akutagawa Sakurazutumi Park on April 24, 2016 in Takatsuki, Japan. Koinobori, meaning 'carp streamer', are traditionally flown in Japan to celebrate Tango no sekku, or Children's Day. Children's Day takes place on May 5 and is also a National Holiday

A boy rests as a man takes a picture under the colorful Koinobori or carp streamers at Akutagawa Sakurazutumi Park on April 24, 2016 in Takatsuki, Japan. Koinobori, meaning 'carp streamer', are traditionally flown in Japan to celebrate Tango no sekku, or Children's Day. Children's Day takes place on May 5 and is also a National Holiday.

A man prepares to hoist colorful Koinobori or carp streamers into the air at Akutagawa Sakurazutumi Park on April 24, 2016 in Takatsuki, Japan. Koinobori, meaning 'carp streamer', are traditionally flown in Japan to celebrate Tango no sekku, or Children's Day. Children's Day takes place on May 5 and is also a National Holiday.

Two women prepare to hoist colorful Koinobori or carp streamers into the air at Akutagawa Sakurazutumi Park on April 24, 2016 in Takatsuki, Japan. Koinobori, meaning 'carp streamer', are traditionally flown in Japan to celebrate Tango no sekku, or Children's Day. Children's Day takes place on May 5 and is also a National Holiday.

A woman carries colorful Koinobori or carp streamers as prepare to hoist into the air over the Akutagawa river on April 24,2016 at Akutagawa Sakurazutumi Park, in Takatsuki, Japan. Koinobori, meaning 'carp streamer', are traditionally flown in Japan to celebrate Tango no sekku, or Children's Day. Children's Day takes place on May 5 and is also a National Holiday.

Artists Work On Sand Sculptures

2016-03-30T21:00:00.000+09:00

Sand sculptor Dan Belcher of the USA works on sand sculpture named Christ the Redeemer statue in Corcovado, ahead of the eight annual exhibition 'World Travel By Sand - South Africa' at the Tottori Sand Dunes The Sand Museum on March 30, 2016 in Tottori, Japan. The exhibition will be available to the public from April 16, 2016 to January 3, 2017.

@Buddhika Weerasinghe

Sand sculptor Pavel Mylnikov of the Russia works on sand sculpture named Discovery of the New World , ahead of the eight annual exhibition 'World Travel By Sand - South Africa' at the Tottori Sand Dunes The Sand Museum on March 30, 2016 in Tottori, Japan. The exhibition will be available to the public from April 16, 2016 to January 3, 2017.

Sand sculptor Daniel Dyle of the Ireland takes a break from working next to a large sand sculpture ahead of the eight annual exhibition 'World Travel By Sand - South Africa' at the Tottori Sand Dunes The Sand Museum on March 30, 2016 in Tottori, Japan. The exhibition will be available to the public from April 16, 2016 to January 3, 2017.

Helpers transport wood frame in the sight, ahead of the eight annual exhibition 'World Travel By Sand - South Africa' at the Tottori Sand Dunes The Sand Museum on March 30, 2016 in Tottori, Japan. The exhibition will be available to the public from April 16, 2016 to January 3, 2017.

Sand sculptor Gisele Real of Brazil works on sand sculpture named Lake Titikaka and the indigenous people, ahead of the eight annual exhibition 'World Travel By Sand - South Africa' at the Tottori Sand Dunes The Sand Museum on March 30, 2016 in Tottori, Japan. The exhibition will be available to the public from April 16, 2016 to January 3, 2017.

Sand sculptor finishes on sand sculpture face named Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, ahead of the eight annual exhibition 'World Travel By Sand - South Africa' at the Tottori Sand Dunes The Sand Museum on March 30, 2016 in Tottori, Japan. The exhibition will be available to the public from April 16, 2016 to January 3, 2017.

A large sand sculpture named Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is seen at the site ahead of the eight annual exhibition 'World Travel By Sand - South Africa' at the Tottori Sand Dunes The Sand Museum on March 30, 2016 in Tottori, Japan. The exhibition will be available to the public from April 16, 2016 to January 3, 2017.

Mitsubishi Electric Corp Self-Driving Vehicle

2016-03-18T22:14:00.000+09:00

Mitsubishi Electric Corp. employee uses a remote control during a demonstration of the company's self-driving vehicle in Ako, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Friday, March 18, 2016. Mitsubishi Electric Corp., a supplier of air-to-air missiles to Japan's armed forces, is looking to adapt the technologies it originally developed for military use to help autonomous driving cars detect obstacles and avoid collisions.

@Buddhika Weerasinghe.

Mitsubishi Electric Corp. employees check the company's self-driving vehicle during a demonstration in Ako, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Friday, March 18, 2016. Mitsubishi Electric Corp., a supplier of air-to-air missiles to Japan's armed forces, is looking to adapt the technologies it originally developed for military use to help autonomous driving cars detect obstacles and avoid collisions.

Mitsubishi Electric Corp. employees watch the company's self-driving vehicle during a demonstration in Ako, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Friday, March 18, 2016. Mitsubishi Electric Corp., a supplier of air-to-air missiles to Japan's armed forces, is looking to adapt the technologies it originally developed for military use to help autonomous driving cars detect obstacles and avoid collisions.

A Mitsubishi Electric Corp. self-driving vehicle travels though a test course during a demonstration in Ako, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Friday, March 18, 2016. Mitsubishi Electric Corp., a supplier of air-to-air missiles to Japan's armed forces, is looking to adapt the technologies it originally developed for military use to help autonomous driving cars detect obstacles and avoid collisions.

Mitsubishi Electric Corp. employees demonstrate the company's self-driving vehicle in Ako, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Friday, March 18, 2016. Mitsubishi Electric Corp., a supplier of air-to-air missiles to Japan's armed forces, is looking to adapt the technologies it originally developed for military use to help autonomous driving cars detect obstacles and avoid collisions.

A satellite antenna sits on the roof of a Mitsubishi Electric Corp. self-driving vehicle during a demonstration in Ako, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Friday, March 18, 2016. Mitsubishi Electric Corp., a supplier of air-to-air missiles to Japan's armed forces, is looking to adapt the technologies it originally developed for military use to help autonomous driving cars detect obstacles and avoid collisions.

A sensor, millimeter-wave radar and camera sit on the front of a Mitsubishi Electric Corp. self-driving vehicle during a demonstration in Ako, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on Friday, March 18, 2016. Mitsubishi Electric Corp., a supplier of air-to-air missiles to Japan's armed forces, is looking to adapt the technologies it originally developed for military use to help autonomous driving cars detect obstacles and avoid collisions

Young Eels Night Fishing

2016-03-12T12:32:00.000+09:00

Fishermen use lamps to search for young eels in the Yoshino River in Tokushima, Japan, on Saturday, March 12, 2016. Young eels are approximately 2 inches (5 centimeters) in length. Those caught during fishing season are sold at a price of between 100 yen and 300 yen to farming facilitie

@Buddhika Weerasinghe

Fishermen leave a boating dock for young eels fishing on the Yoshino River in Tokushima, Japan on Saturday, March 12, 2016. Young eels are approximately 2 inches (5 centimeters) in length. Those caught during fishing season are sold at a price of between 100 yen and 300 yen to farming facilities

A fisherman carries a net while walking in a dock in Tokushima, Japan, on Saturday, March 12, 2016. Young eels are approximately 2 inches (5 centimeters) in length. Those caught during fishing season are sold at a price of between 100 yen and 300 yen to farming facilities.

Newly captured eels are seen in a glass at a dock in Tokushima, Japan, on Saturday, March 12, 2016.Young eels are approximately 2 inches (5 centimeters) in length. Those caught during fishing season are sold at a price of between 100 yen and 300 yen to farming facilities.

A Taste of Japan's Springtime Catch, Sand lance

2016-03-07T16:50:00.000+09:00

Trays of sand lances move along the production line. At the Appare Suisan facility alone some 70 tons of the fish will be processed during the season, according to the company. Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture on Monday, March 7, 2016. Sand lances are popular local cultural and spring cuisine in Osaka and Hyogo Prefecture. Many local residences sand lance containers send as gift for friends and relatives across the country during the harvest season. The sand lance harvest period will continue about one month period at the beginning of spring.

@Buddhika Weerasinghe

Boiled Sand lances being dry at the Himeji Tore Tore Ichiba outlet. A simple way of cooking is to boil them with salt and vinegar

A fishing boat glides through the mist near Boze Island, Hyogo prefecture, on the first day of the sand lance harvest Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture on Monday, March 7, 2016. Sand lances are popular local cultural and spring cuisine in Osaka and Hyogo Prefecture. Many local residences sand lance containers send as gift for friends and relatives across the country during the harvest season. The sand lance harvest period will continue about one month period at the beginning of spring.

Trays of sand lances move along the production line. At the Appare Suisan facility alone some 70 tons of the fish will be processed during the season, according to the company

An employee prepares a catch for shipment. They will be delivered to markets throughout Japan.

Containers of sand lance are unloaded at the port city of Himeji. The fish are sold at auction to local retailers.

Sand lance harvesting vessels sit on the water while heavy mist near the Boze Island during the first day of sand lance harvest Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture on Monday, March 7, 2016.

Containers of sand lance are unloaded at the port city of Himeji. The fish are sold at auction to local retailers.

The sand lance is a slender fish with a pointed snout that it uses to burrow into the seabed. Its common name 'sand eel' is misleading as the fish belongs to the Ammodytidae family.

Trays of the fish are displayed for sale at the Himeji Tore Tore Ichiba retail outlet.

Fishermen prepare their nets. The harvest season kicked off 10 days later than last year after a mild winter kept water temperatures high, leading to a delay in sand lance spawning.

Sand lances being boiled at the Himeji Tore Tore Ichiba outlet. A simple way of cooking is to boil them with salt and vinegar

Sand lance harvesting vessels sit on the water while heavy mist near the Boze Island during the first day of sand lance harvest Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture on Monday, March 7, 2016.

Often served with steamed rice, sand lances are also a common component of the traditional Japanese breakfast.

Trays of the fish are displayed for sale at the Himeji Tore Tore Ichiba retail outlet.

Trays of sand lances move along the production line. At the Appare Suisan facility alone some 70 tons of the fish will be processed during the season, according to the company

Often served with steamed rice, sand lances are also a common component of the traditional Japanese breakfast.

Trays of sand lances move along the production line. At the Appare Suisan facility alone some 70 tons of the fish will be processed during the season, according to the company

Containers of sand lance are unloaded at the port city of Himeji. The fish are sold at auction to local retailers.

Boiled Sand lances being dry at the Himeji Tore Tore Ichiba outlet. A simple way of cooking is to boil them with salt and vinegar

Geisha culture

2016-01-07T15:44:00.000+09:00

Japanese traditional female dancers, maikos, and performers, geikos attend the new year's ceremony at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater on January 7, 2016 in Kyoto, Japan.

@ Buddhika Weerasinghe

Japanese traditional female dancers, maikos, and performers, geikos leave after attending the new year's ceremony at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater on January 7, 2016 in Kyoto, Japan

A Japanese traditional female dancer, maiko, walks in the street during the new year's ceremony at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater on January 7, 2016 in Kyoto, Japan.

A Japanese traditional female dancer, maiko poses for pictures during the new year's ceremony at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater on January 7, 2016 in Kyoto, Japan.

Japanese traditional female dancers, maikos, and performers, geikos leave after attending the new year's ceremony at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater on January 7, 2016 in Kyoto, Japan.

Japanese traditional female dancers, maikos, and performers, geikos walk in the street during the new year's ceremony at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater on January 7, 2016 in Kyoto, Japan.

Japanese traditional female dancer, geiko leaves the tea restaurant after a New Year greeting for her master on January 7, 2016 in Kyoto, Japan

A Japanese traditional female dancer, maiko, walks in the street during the new year's ceremony at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater on January 7, 2016 in Kyoto, Japan.

A Japanese traditional female dancer, maiko holds paper fan during the new year's ceremony at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater on January 7, 2016 in Kyoto, Japan

Dinosaurs Kingdom in Fukui

2015-11-07T14:46:00.000+09:00

A Japanese business man walks pass the giant dinosaur wall paint exhibit in station wall on November 7, 2015 in Fukui city, Japan. Largest number of dinosaur fossils discovered in Fukui Prefecture as there are large scale of dinosaur museum in Katsuyama city. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

@Buddhika Weerasinghe

Japanese women walk pass the giant dinosaur wall paint exhibit in station wall on November 7, 2015 in Fukui city, Japan. Largest number of dinosaur fossils discovered in Fukui Prefecture as there are large scale of dinosaur museum in Katsuyama city. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

A Japanese woman walks pass the giant dinosaur wall paint exhibit in station wall on November 7, 2015 in Fukui city, Japan. Largest number of dinosaur fossils discovered in Fukui Prefecture as there are large scale of dinosaur museum in Katsuyama city. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

A life-sized moving dinosaur stands front of the JR station on November 7, 2015 in Fukui city, Japan. Largest number of dinosaur fossils discovered in Fukui Prefecture as there are large scale of dinosaur museum in Katsuyama city. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

Life-sized moving dinosaurs stand front of the JR station on November 7, 2015 in Fukui city, Japan. Largest number of dinosaur fossils discovered in Fukui Prefecture as there are large scale of dinosaur museum in Katsuyama city. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

A dinosaur professor greets visitors as stand in a JR station on November 7, 2015 in Fukui city, Japan. Largest number of dinosaur fossils discovered in Fukui Prefecture as there are large scale of dinosaur museum in Katsuyama city. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

A giant dinosaur wall paint exhibits in station wall on November 7, 2015 in Fukui city, Japan. Largest number of dinosaur fossils discovered in Fukui Prefecture as there are large scale of dinosaur museum in Katsuyama city. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

Thai Airways-Business

2015-10-30T14:36:00.000+09:00

Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, aircraft sits parked at the Suvarnabhumi Airport, also known as Bangkok International Airport on October 30, 2015 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

@Buddhika Weerasinghe

Farmers Harvest Rice Ahead Another Round Of TPP Talks

2015-09-20T16:27:00.000+09:00

Japanese rice farmer Kenichi Okamoto uses sickles as he harvests rice in a paddy field at Tanada rice terrace on September 20, 2015 in Sayo, Japan. Ministers from 12 Pacific Rim countries will meet in late September in Atlanta as they look to conclude years of negotiations on creating one of the world's biggest free-trade zones. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe.

@Buddhik Weerasingher.

Japanese rice farmer uses sickles as she harvest rice in a paddy field on September 20, 2015 in Sayo, Japan. Ministers from 12 Pacific Rim countries will meet in late September in Atlanta as they look to conclude years of negotiations on creating one of the world's biggest free-trade zones. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe.

Japanese rice farmer hang on the bundles of harvested rice on rack in a paddy field on September 20, 2015 in Sayo, Japan. Ministers from 12 Pacific Rim countries will meet in late September in Atlanta as they look to conclude years of negotiations on creating one of the world's biggest free-trade zones. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Rice grows in a paddy field at Tanada rice terrace on September 20, 2015 in Sayo, Japan. Ministers from 12 Pacific Rim countries will meet in late September in Atlanta as they look to conclude years of negotiations on creating one of the world's biggest free-trade zones. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Japanese rice farmer makes bundles of harvested rice in a paddy field on September 20, 2015 in Sayo, Japan. Ministers from 12 Pacific Rim countries will meet in late September in Atlanta as they look to conclude years of negotiations on creating one of the world's biggest free-trade zones. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Japanese rice farmer harvests rice with a combine harvester in a paddy field on September 20, 2015 in Himeji, Japan. Ministers from 12 Pacific Rim countries will meet in late September in Atlanta as they look to conclude years of negotiations on creating one of the world's biggest free-trade zones. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Japanese rice farmer uses sickles as he harvests rice in a paddy field at Tanada rice terrace on September 20, 2015 in Sayo, Japan. Ministers from 12 Pacific Rim countries will meet in late September in Atlanta as they look to conclude years of negotiations on creating one of the world's biggest free-trade zones. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe.

Japanese rice farmers uses sickles as they harvest rice in a paddy field on September 20, 2015 in Sayo, Japan. Ministers from 12 Pacific Rim countries will meet in late September in Atlanta as they look to conclude years of negotiations on creating one of the world's biggest free-trade zones. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Japanese woman hang on the bundles of harvested rice on rack with her grand children in a paddy field on September 20, 2015 in Sayo, Japan. Ministers from 12 Pacific Rim countries will meet in late September in Atlanta as they look to conclude years of negotiations on creating one of the world's biggest free-trade zones. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Japanese rice farmer uses sickles as she harvests rice in a paddy field at Tanada rice terrace on September 20, 2015 in Sayo, Japan. Ministers from 12 Pacific Rim countries will meet in late September in Atlanta as they look to conclude years of negotiations on creating one of the world's biggest free-trade zones. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe.

Japanese rice farmers walk in a paddy field on September 20, 2015 in Sayo, Japan. Ministers from 12 Pacific Rim countries will meet in late September in Atlanta as they look to conclude years of negotiations on creating one of the world's biggest free-trade zones. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Harvested rice bundles hang on the rack in a paddy field on September 20, 2015 in Sayo, Japan. Ministers from 12 Pacific Rim countries will meet in late September in Atlanta as they look to conclude years of negotiations on creating one of the world's biggest free-trade zones. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

A shrine gate stands in a paddy field on September 20, 2015 in Singu, Japan. Ministers from 12 Pacific Rim countries will meet in late September in Atlanta as they look to conclude years of negotiations on creating one of the world's biggest free-trade zones. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Himeji Castel- Japan travel

2015-09-18T13:25:00.000+09:00

The main tower of Himeji Castle seen during the sunrise on September 29, 2015 in Himeji, Japan. The Himeji Castle is UNESCO World Heritage sites, initially built in 14th century. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

@Buddhika Weerasingh

The main tower of Himeji Castle seen during the sunset on September 18, 2015 in Himeji, Japan. The Himeji Castle is UNESCO World Heritage sites, initially built in 14th century. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Rice Field in Terrace

2015-09-08T13:20:00.000+09:00

Rice grows in a paddy field ahead of start to harvest in Sayo city, Hyogo prefecture on September 8, 2015. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

@Buddhika Weerasinghe

A farmer sprays chemicals on his paddy field ahead of start to harvest in Shingu city, Hyogo prefecture on September 8, 2015. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Rice grows in a paddy field ahead of start to harvest in Sayo city, Hyogo prefecture on September 8, 2015. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Ears of Rice in a paddy field ahead of start to harvest in Sayo city, Hyogo prefecture on September 8, 2015. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Rice grows in a paddy field ahead of start to harvest in Sayo city, Hyogo prefecture on September 8, 2015. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

A farmer sprays chemicals on his paddy field ahead of start to harvest in Shingu city, Hyogo prefecture on September 8, 2015. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

A female farmer walks through the paddy field ahead of start to harvest in Shingu city, Hyogo prefecture on September 8, 2015. Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe

Ice Block Manufacturing Factory

2015-07-06T13:40:00.000+09:00

A worker moves an ice block bound for shipment at the Honda Reizo Co. factory in Taishi, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan on Monday, July 6, 2015. The factory produces 113 tons of ice pillars per day. Photo by: Buddhika Weerasinghe

@Buddhika Weerasinghe

A worker inspects an ice block bound for shipment at the Honda Reizo Co. factory in Taishi, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan on Monday, July 6, 2015. The factory produces 113 tons of ice pillars per day.Photo by: Buddhika Weerasinghe

Akiyoshi Honda, president of Honda Reizo Co., carries an ice block at the Honda Reizo Co. factory in Taishi, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan on Monday, July 6, 2015. The factory produces 113 tons of ice pillars per day. Photo by: Buddhika Weerasinghe

An ice block moves on a conveyor on the production line of the Honda Reizo Co. factory in Taishi, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan on Monday, July 6, 2015. The factory produces 113 tons of ice pillars per day.Photo by: Buddhika Weerasinghe

A worker walks on the production line of the Honda Reizo Co. factory in Taishi, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan on Monday, July 6, 2015. The factory produces 113 tons of ice pillars per day.Photo by: Buddhika Weerasinghe

Farmers Use Ducklings As Aigamo Organic Rice Farming

2015-06-17T21:23:00.000+09:00

TATSUNO, JAPAN - JUNE 17, 2015: One week old duckling paddles as look food in Ichihara’s Organic Rice filed on June 17, 2015 in Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Japanese rice farmer Tadashi Ichihara works with nearly 300 ducklings to eliminate weeds and insects in the rice fields. Ichihara who is one of leading farmer use "Aigamo Method," a method of using ducklings as the alternative to chemicals in the rice farming since 1999. That Aigamo Method developed by Japanese farmer Takao Furuno in 1989, since then his methods have applied more than 75,000 farmers in Japan, Korea, China, Vietnam, The Philippines, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Iran, France and Cuba.

About one or two weeks after seeding have been planted the ducklings releasing into a 1,000 square meters rice field, which farmland surrounded by an electric fence for ducklings protect by dogs, cats, crows and other wild animals. Also ducklings need necessary shelter edge of farmland that they can rest and take refuge from rain.

(Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)

@Buddhika Weerasinghe

Tadashi Ichihara (R) and his wife Makiko Ichihara make electric fence surround their organic rice farmland for protect to ducklings from crows cats and other wild animals on June 17, 2015 in Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture Japan. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe)