Explore the Ruins of Ishiharadake Forest Park in Saikai, Nagasaki Ishiharadake Forest Park in Saikai, Nagasaki Prefecture is a slightly mysterious place where the remains of a modern-era fortress still lie quietly in the woods. This featured video takes you along the park’s well-maintained trails and lets you experience moss-covered stones, cool air, and shadowy underground spaces evocative of an atmosphere reminiscent of Laputa from Studio Ghibli's Castle in the Sky. What makes it special is that it is not merely a mountain dotted with ruins, but a park where the ruins blend naturally into the landscape. Since you can encounter them as an extension of a stroll or forest bathing, known in Japan as shinrin-yoku, it feels comfortably approachable even for first-time visitors. In this article, we will introduce the highlights of Ishiharadake Forest Park、including its history, as well as its well-maintained walking paths, restrooms, gazebos, cooking facilities, and camping areas. Photo: Ishiharadake Forest Park in Saikai, Nagasaki Prefecture Ruins from 125 Years Ago? Ishiharadake Forest Park is a place where the remains of a modern-era fortress seem to melt into the forest itself. The Ishiharadake Battery (Ishiharadake Hōrui) within the park is said to have been completed in 1899. As you walk, you can see that structures once built for defense now stand quietly, embraced by the trees. On paper, it is a “Meiji-era remnant,” but when you stand there, you feel something stronger: the presence of time itself. Moss tracing the edges of stone, the hush of the surrounding woods, the cool, clear air. The Meiji era, which should feel far away, seems to breathe softly deep in the forest. That quiet sense of historical romance is this forest's greatest charm. What Is the Ishiharadake Battery in Nagasaki? As you walk through Ishiharadake Forest Park, you will come across the remains of the Ishiharadake Battery. The term hōrui, often translated as “battery”, is best understood as a defensive position within the larger system of a fortress. The Ishiharadake Battery was one of the defensive installations built to protect the naval port. That is why the stone walls and shaped terrain remaining in the forest look less like scattered rubble and more like structures deliberately built for defense. Photo: Sasebo Fortress remains (Ishiharadake Battery site) at Ishiharadake Forest Park in Saikai, Nagasaki Prefecture An interesting point is that these defensive facilities did not just consist of buildings. You can see a variety of measures which were used to increase the defensive strength of the battery through the terrain itself, such as raised earthworks, trench lines, and stone-reinforced slopes. there is enjoyment to be found in searching for these traces as you walk. Simply gaining one new perspective makes the same scenery far more fascinating. Highlights of Ishiharadake Forest Park The appeal of this place is that the remnants do not push themselves forward as a “main attraction.” Instead, they blend naturally into the forest scenery. The green of moss, the gray of stone, and the dappled light through the trees. As these colors and textures layer together, it begins to resemble the world of Laputa. Rather than large buildings, what you notice are traces such as stone outlines, steps, and subtle rises and dips in the ground. Because of that, discoveries follow one after the other as you walk: one here, one there, another just ahead. Photo: Sasebo Fortress remains (Ishiharadake Battery site) at Ishiharadake Forest Park in Saikai, Nagasaki Prefecture The stone surfaces can look softer when covered in moss, and then sharply defined when shadows fall across them. Even in the same spot, the impression changes depending on the time of day. Since the forest is quiet, you can clearly hear your footsteps and the rustle of branches and leaves, which makes the stillness feel even deeper. Around the remnants, the air often feels noticeably cooler、conveying a shift in atmosphere rarely captured in photos. As a result, this is less a place where you “go to see ruins,” and more a place where you “meet ruins while walking through the forest.” That subtle sense of distance is what creates the Laputa-like feeling. What Is the Enpei-bu Shelter Like? The first major highlight of the video starts at (0:30) with the lowest-level enpei-bu shelter. The moment you step into the darkness, the air turns cool, and it becomes strikingly quiet, as if sound is being absorbed. The word enpei (掩蔽) itself means “to cover and conceal.” In modern fortifications, an enpei-bu is often explained as a “concealed protective space,” designed to shelter personnel and supplies from shelling and other attacks. Over time, both structure and materials evolved. In the Meiji period, stone and brick were used, and later the use of concrete became more widespread. That technological shift is part of what defines these shelters. With the Ishiharadake Battery, there is not always enough information to state every detail of the enpei-bu’s original use with certainty. Still, the appeal of this section lies in the fact that the park has been developed to preserve the atmosphere of a fortress site, and that the “underground air” conveyed in the video leaves a strong impression as an experience. The quiet beyond the darkness feels far more intense than it does in photos. To enjoy it safely, bring a light (your smartphone's light is enough) and be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. What Can You See at the Gun Battery Site? As you reach the gun battery area, it quickly becomes clear that Ishiharadake Forest Park was developed around the Ishiharadake Battery site. The city of Saikai also introduces it as an atmospheric fortress site, and one of the key charms here is how the outlines of stone structures remain within the forest’s stillness. Photo: Sasebo Fortress remains (Ishiharadake Battery site) at Ishiharadake Forest Park in Saikai, Nagasaki Prefecture The key discovery here is that the battery site cannot be reduced to simply “Where the cannons were placed.” On Nagasaki’s tourism websites, the Ishiharadake Battery is introduced as a battery completed in 1899, with remnants still preserved within the park. Once you know that background, walking the battery area makes the structures in the woods look less like mere “scenery,” and more like traces of their original role. When those “outlines of history” connect with the atmosphere of the place, it lingers in your memory in a quiet, gradual way. As you reach the gun battery area, it becomes easy to understand, just by looking around, that Ishiharadake Forest Park is “a place developed by making use of the Ishiharadake Battery site.” The outlines of stone structures remain within the forest’s stillness, and it is a point where you can strongly feel that this was not just a walking trail, but part of a modern defensive facility. How to Enjoy the Campsite Ishiharadake Forest Park is a park with historic ruins where you can also camp. The fee is 520 yen per tent per night, and reservations are required. A good way to spend time here is to take a light walk around the remnants in the late afternoon to get used to the atmosphere, enjoy the forest’s quiet as it is at night, then walk again the next morning when the sunlight filters through the trees. On a day trip, you may only glimpse the atmosphere, but if you stay, you will notice the expressions of the stone and the sounds of the forest gradually changing over time. Access ■ Access from Nagasaki Airport by bus, train, and ferry (approx. 3 hours 10 minutes) Nagasaki Airport (route bus “Nagasaki Airport to Nagasaki Station, via Nagasaki University East Gate and Peace Park”) ↓ Uematsu-higashi ↓ Shin-Omura Station (JR Omura Line and Sasebo Line, “Section Rapid Seaside Liner” bound for Sasebo) ↓ Sasebo Station ↓ Kujirase Terminal (ferry “Sasebo to Yokose-nishi,” bound for Yokose-nishi Port) ↓ Yokose-nishi Port ↓ On foot ↓ Ishiharadake Forest Park Because airport bus operations and arrival times vary depending on the service and road conditions, it is reassuring to check the latest information on the official guidance and timetable for Saihi Bus (Nagasaki Airport Line) before you depart. 【Saihi Bus Official Website】bus.saihigroup.co.jp ■ Access from Nagasaki Airport by car Nagasaki Airport ↓ Car (rental car) ↓ Ishiharadake Forest Park Travel time may vary depending on road conditions. What to See Nearby One of the best things about the area around Ishiharadake Forest Park is how easy it is to combine the quiet of the forest with a different kind of experience on the same day. If you want something more hands-on, the classic choice in Saikai is Nagasaki Bio Park. Official information highlights exhibits with few cages or fences and experiences where you can get close to and interact with animals, so it offers a visit that goes beyond simply looking. Photo: Capybaras at Nagasaki Bio Park in Saikai, Nagasaki Prefecture Another highlight is that the park offers animal feeding and interaction experiences. Capybara programs are especially popular, and in winter they may hold an event known as the “Capybara Open-air Bath.” Opening hours are 10:00 to 17:00, with last entry at 16:00. The park generally has no regular closing days and remains open over the year-end and New Year holidays. They also note that temporary closures are possible in severe weather, such as typhoons or heavy snow. Since admission fees are listed officially as well, checking the latest details before visiting makes it easier to plan your day. 【Nagasaki Bio Park Official Website】biopark.co.jp If you want to add more of a “travel” feeling, Huis Ten Bosch is another must. Modeled after European streetscapes, the park has an atmosphere you can enjoy just by walking around. In the daytime, you can take in canal-side views and architectural details. At night, the illumination transforms the mood completely. Photo: Huis Ten Bosch in Nagasaki Prefecture In particular, the illumination event “Kingdom of Light” is promoted as a year-round attraction, with highlights that change by season and area. In winter, there is also a limited-time event called “World of Silver,” which offers a seasonal way to see the entire town in a different light. Since the event period varies by year, please check in advance. For access, it is said to take about 5 to 7 minutes on foot from JR Huis Ten Bosch Station to the entrance, the Welcome Gate, making it easy to include even on a train trip. If you move from the quiet of Ishiharadake to the bright spectacle of Huis Ten Bosch, the tone of the same day’s experiences changes dramatically. 【Huis Ten Bosch Official Website】https://www.huistenbosch.co.jp Conclusion The charm of Ishiharadake Forest Park is that it is an easy place to walk trough as a forest park, yet during your stroll you can suddenly sense the presence of Japan’s modern era. The cool air of the enpei-bu shelter, the outlines left at the gun battery site, and the quiet you can savor at the campsite. Even within the same forest, the density of the atmosphere changes from place to place. It is so interesting that before you know it, your walking pace slows down too. If you watch the video beforehand as a way to preview the atmosphere,　you will notice more moments of quiet recognition once you are there,　and your walk will become even more enjoyable. Whether you simply want to walk in the woods or you are looking for a slightly different destination, this is a place where you can taste a quiet, out-of-the-ordinary experience. It is the kind of spot that makes you think on the way home, “I want to walk through that cool air one more time.” Reference site for Ishiharadake Forest Park: https://www.city.saikai.nagasaki.jp/kanko/theme/spot/1/4942.html .caption-heading-2 { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; margin-bottom: 15px; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 40px; } .caption-information-table { background-color: #efefef; margin-top: -20px; margin-bottom: 50px; padding: 20px; border-radius: 8px; width: 90%; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-information-table.blue { background-color: #fffaef; } .caption-information-table .title { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; } @media screen and (max-width: 1024px) { .caption-information-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 30px 15px; } } .caption-heading-table .caption-text li { line-height: 2.5rem; margin-top: 1.3rem; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading { position: relative; border-left: 5px solid #ff1300; padding-left: 10px; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 50px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 1px 15px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-heading-table ul{ counter-reset: listnum; /* カウンターをリセット */ list-style: none; /* 標準のスタイルは消す */ font-size: 1.5rem !important; margin-bottom: 15px; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li{ margin-left: 1.1em; text-indent: -1.1em; font-weight: bold; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li::before{ counter-increment: listnum; /* counter-resetと同じ文字列 */ content: counter(listnum); /* カウントした数に応じて番号を表示 */ content: counter(listnum) ". 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Nighttime Cherry Blossom Viewing at Ueno Park, Hirosaki Park, and Takada Park in 2026 This video, titled "4K Japan's Top 3 Nighttime Cherry Blossom Spots｜Ueno Park｜Hirosaki Park｜Takada Park｜Famous Nighttime Cherry Blossom Locations｜Sakura｜Hanami｜Cherry Blossom Evening" (4K 日本三大夜桜 上野公園 弘前公園 高田公園 Top３ Night cherry Blossom 夜桜の名所 sakura hanami 花見 Cherry blossom evening), was uploaded by "Discover Nippon." The video features plenty of beautiful 4K images showing the fantastic scenery of Ueno Park, Hirosaki Park, and Takada Park, which are known as the Top 3 Nighttime Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan. This article provides sightseeing information on the 2026 cherry blossom events at Ueno Park, Hirosaki Park, and Takada Park. First, be sure to check out the video to enjoy the fantastic views of the beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom. After seeing this you'll definitely want to visit these spots in person! When Is the Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms at Ueno Park in 2026? Highlights and Festival Dates Photo：Cherry blossoms at night in Ueno Park, Taito, Tokyo Ueno Park, introduced at 0:19 in the video, is located in Taito, Tokyo, and is the first urban park in Japan, making it a place with a long history. Officially named "Ueno Onshi Park," Ueno Park has been selected as one of the "Top 100 Historical Parks in Japan" and is also home to Ueno Zoo, museums, art galleries, and cafes such as Starbucks. The park has also been selected as one of "Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots" and attracts a total of approximately 4 million visitors during the cherry blossom viewing season when all sorts of vendors and food stalls line its paths. In Ueno Park, there are approximately 800 cherry trees of 50 species, and visitors can enjoy cherry blossom viewing for around two full months. The most popular cherry blossom viewing spots are Sakura-dori (さくら通り), Shinobazu Pond (不忍池), and Kiyomizu Kannon-do Temple, an Important Cultural Property. The 77th Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival (うえの桜まつり) will be held from March 14 to April 5, 2026. During the festival, approximately 800 "bonbori" (Japanese paper lamps) will be lit to create a fantastic illuminated scene. The bonbori light-up will run from March 20 (Fri, public holiday) to April 19 (Sun), 2026, from sunset until around 8:00 p.m. Ueno Park is just a two-minute walk from Ueno Station on all lines, and a one-minute walk from Keisei Ueno Station off the Keisei Main Line. When Is the Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms at Hirosaki Park in 2026? Special Highlights You Won't Want to Miss Photo：Cherry blossoms at night at Hirosaki Park, Hirosaki, Aomori Hirosaki Park, located in Hirosaki, Aomori, is introduced at 3:02 in the video. The highlights of Hirosaki Park include Hirosaki Castle's keep and three turrets, which have been designated as Important Cultural Properties by the Japanese government. Hirosaki Park is home to approximately 2,600 cherry trees of 52 varieties that bloom each year. The most famous is the large weeping cherry tree (Shidarezakura), which was planted in 1914. The 2026 Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival (弘前さくらまつり), where you can enjoy nighttime cherry blossoms, will be held from April 17 (Fri) to May 5 (Tue, public holiday), 2026 — a total of 19 days. In response to the recent trend of earlier blooming, the festival will begin earlier than usual this year (dates are subject to change depending on blooming conditions). Special nighttime illumination of the cherry blossoms will take place every evening throughout the festival, and various events are also planned, including boat tours on Hirosaki Park's middle moat. Please note that 2026 is a particularly significant year for Hirosaki Castle. As part of ongoing stone wall repair work, the castle keep is scheduled to be moved back to its original foundation from July 2026 — its first relocation in approximately seven years. As a result, public access to the interior of the keep was suspended on November 23, 2025, and visitors will not be able to enter the keep during the 2026 cherry blossom festival. That said, the stunning springtime view of cherry blossoms, the castle keep, and the Tsugaru Fuji (Mt. Iwakisan) remains as breathtaking as ever. There is also a reservation-only "cherry blossom viewing party," which is popular because it allows visitors to enjoy Tsugaru's local cuisine while viewing the cherry blossoms, with no need to bring anything along. It is a 20-minute walk from JR Hirosaki Station, and there is a parking lot nearby. When Is the 2026 Kanoukai Held at Takada Park? Nighttime Cherry Blossoms and the Three-Story Turret Photo：Cherry blossoms at night at Takada Castle Site Park, Joetsu, Niigata At 5:19 in the video, Takada Park is introduced. As of April 1, 2020, the name of this park was changed to "Takada Castle Site Park" (高田城址公園). Takada Castle Site Park (Takada Park) in Joetsu, Niigata, is a large approximately 50-hectare park that includes the restored three-story turret of Takada Castle, the Municipal Museum (renovated into a Museum of History), and sports facilities. You can also check out live cameras of Takada Castle Site Park on the "Gurutto Shinetsu" (ぐるっと信越, ※Japanese only) website. In addition to cherry blossoms, the park is also famous for its beautiful lotus flowers. Takada Castle Site Park (Takada Park) is home to approximately 4,000 Somei Yoshino (Yoshino cherry) trees illuminated by bonbori lanterns, creating a breathtaking nighttime spectacle. The 101st Takada Castle Site Park Kanoukai (Cherry Blossom Viewing Festival) will be held from April 3 (Fri) to April 19 (Sun), 2026. Nighttime illumination will also take place during the event (6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., extended until 10:00 p.m. during peak bloom). Various events are also planned, including stage performances, a local product fair, and a photo contest. (Please check the official website for details.) To get to Takada Park, it is a 15-minute walk from Takada Station on the Echigo Tokimeki Railway, or approximately a 10-minute drive from Joetsu-Takada IC on the Joshinetsu Expressway. A parking lot is available. Japan's Top 3 Nighttime Cherry Blossom Spots in 2026: Ueno Park, Hirosaki Park & Takada Park This video introduces the Top 3 Nighttime Cherry Blossom Spots of Japan in stunning detail. Enjoy the spectacular nighttime views of cherry blossoms lit up and glowing in beautiful shades of pink. Each of the three spots has its own unique charm — be sure to visit during the 2026 cherry blossom season! 【Official Website】Ueno Park/Ueno Onshi Park Official Website - Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Bureau of Construction https://www.kensetsu.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/jimusho/toubuk/ueno/en_index.html 【Official Website】Hirosaki Park https://www.hirosakipark.jp/en/

Tsubosakadera Temple's 'Great Cherry Blossom Buddha': Video Introduction This video, titled "[Cherry Blossoms via Drone in 4K] The Great Cherry Blossom Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple, Nara (Long Ver. )｜Cherry Blossom Drone Project" ([桜ドローン撮影4K] 奈良県壺阪寺の大仏桜 Tsubosaka-dera Temple, Nara (Long Ver. )｜桜ドローンプロジェクト). was uploaded by "DRONE ENTERTAINMENT - Sakura Drone Project." This video shows beautiful images of the cherry blossoms in full bloom and the Great Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple taken from the sky during Japan's cherry blossom season. In the video you can see the cherry blossoms from the perspective of the Great Buddha, which can only be achieved with drone photography. The illuminated scenery of the temple grounds at night is different from that of the daytime, and it is a fantastic view. Take your time to watch the beautiful scenery in the video. Nara, Home to Some of the Most Famous Temples in Japan Nara, Japan is home to approximately 1,800 temples, some of which, such as Todaiji Temple, the largest temple in Nara, are the most famous in Japan. It's even home to the Nanto Shichi Daiji (Seven Great Temples of Nara), or the Seven Great Temples of the Southern Capital. The Seven Great Temples of Nara are: Daianji Temple, Gangoji Temple, Horyuji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Saidaiji Temple, Todaiji Temple, and Yakushiji Temple. The vast number of temples and other tourist attractions, coupled with the long history of Nara, make it a destination in Japan that's definitely worth visiting. What Kind of Temple is Tsubosakadera? History and Highlights Explained Photo：The Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple, Nara Prefecture Tsubosakadera Temple is one of Nara's most iconic spring destinations, celebrated for its stunning cherry blossoms — but what exactly is this temple all about? Tsubosakadera Temple, famous for the Great Cherry Blossom Buddha, is a Shingon sect temple located in Takatori, Nara, in Japan's Kansai Region. Although it's known by the names "Great Cherry Blossom Buddha" and "Tsubosakadera Temple," its official name is Minami Hokkeji Temple. The temple was founded in 703 by Benki Shonin, a Buddhist priest. The temple's name is said to have originated when Benki Shonin, a monk of Gankoji Temple who was undergoing ascetic training, enshrined the Goddess of Kannon in a crystal vase in a hermitage on a hill. The main deity of the temple is the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon (Avalokitesvara), and since it is believed to protect against eye diseases, visitors from all over Japan come to Tsubosakadera Temple to pray for protection. The temple is also famous for the Dai Hina Mandala, in which over 4,000 hina dolls — a record number — are displayed together with the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon in the main hall (held February 28 – April 18, 2026). In the inner sanctuary of Tsubosakadera Temple, there is also a stone structure called Go-Hyaku Rakan (Five Hundred Arhats) featuring many Buddhist statues. Some things that make the temple unique are its solar power generation system, which is not something you'd find at other temples in Japan, as well as several large Buddha statues on the temple grounds that were carved in, and imported from, India. When Is the Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms at Tsubosakadera Temple in 2026? Events and Highlights Photo：The Great Cherry Blossom Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple, Nara Prefecture Tsubosakadera Temple is one of the most famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan, and is known for its giant Buddha statue surrounded by cherry blossoms. The temple grounds are home to approximately 300 cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino (Yoshino cherry), which burst into bloom each spring, enveloping the historic pagodas and stone statues in a sea of blossoms. Among the large stone Buddha statues, the most eye-catching is the Tsubosaka Daibutsu (Great Buddha of Tsubosakadera), located in the center of the temple. The statue stands a staggering 10 meters (~33 feet) tall atop a 5-meter-tall platform. During cherry blossom season 2026, the combination of the towering Buddha and the blooming sakura makes for the perfect Instagram photo. [Video] 1:36 - The Great Buddha Surrounded by Cherry Blossoms The cherry blossoms at Tsubosakadera Temple 2026 are expected to be at their best from early to mid-April, in line with the typical annual peak season as noted by the official Nara Prefecture tourism website, "Aoniyoshi Nara Tabi Net." For the latest bloom updates, be sure to check the temple's official social media before you visit. The cherry blossom season is also the perfect time to enjoy a variety of special events at the temple. From February 28 (Sat) to April 18 (Sat), 2026, the Dai Hina Mandala Exhibition will be held in the Great Lecture Hall (8:30–17:00), displaying a record number of over 4,000 hina dolls enshrined alongside the principal object of worship. From April 25 (Sat) to May 6 (Wed), the Special Kechien Pilgrimage — Wiping the Kannon Statue (壷阪観音お身拭い特別結縁参拝) allows visitors to touch the knees of the principal Eleven-faced, Thousand-armed Kannon (dating from the Muromachi period) to form a deep spiritual bond with the deity. Additionally, from April 25 (Sat) to July 5 (Sun), the Two Great Pagodas Opening (二大塔初層同時開扉) will offer a rare opportunity to view the hidden Buddhist statue Dainichi Nyorai (Mahavairocana), the principal object of worship in the Tahoto Pagoda, along with the interior of the Three-story Pagoda — both normally closed to the public. Be sure to plan your visit to make the most of these special seasonal events. As for the nighttime light-up illumination, it is typically held during the cherry blossom season each year, when the temple's pagodas, the Great Buddha, and the cherry blossoms are beautifully lit up after dark. Please check the official website for the latest 2026 schedule. [Video] 3:35 - Tsubosakadera Temple Illuminated at Night What Are the Best Tourist Attractions Near Tsubosakadera Temple? Photo：Nara Park, Nara Prefecture There are various tourist attractions and sightseeing spots near Tsubosakadera Temple. You can also visit places where you can learn about Japanese history, such as the ruins of Takatori Castle, which is designated as a National Historic Site, and the Kitora Tomb (Kitora Burial Mound). For lunch, we recommend Hana Yamato (花大和), a tea house serving Yakuzen cuisine (medicinal, herbal cuisine based on traditional Chinese medicine), or Oku Asuka Sarara (奥明日香さらら), where you can enjoy local cuisine from Nara. Between sightseeing, you can also take a break at Nokonoko Café (のこのこカフェ). If you're looking to visit major tourist attractions in Nara Prefecture, such as Mt. Yoshino and Nara Park, from Tsubosakadera Temple, we recommend staying overnight and taking your time to enjoy Nara. Summary of Tsubosakadera Temple's Great Cherry Blossom Buddha 2026 | Access, Admission & Parking Did you enjoy the beautiful views of the cherry blossoms and the Great Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple in spring? With approximately 300 Somei Yoshino cherry trees and the 10-meter-tall Tsubosaka Daibutsu, Tsubosakadera Temple's cherry blossoms in 2026 promise one of Nara's finest hanami (cherry blossom viewing) experiences. The spring season is further enriched by special events including the Dai Hina Mandala Exhibition and the rare opening of secret Buddhist statues, drawing visitors from all over Japan — from hanami enthusiasts to pilgrims on the 33 Sacred Sites of Western Japan pilgrimage route. Don't miss the temple's original goshuincho (stamp book) embroidered with the Great Buddha and cherry blossoms, a souvenir you won't find anywhere else. Tsubosakadera Temple is easily accessible from Nara City, making it an ideal stop during any trip to Nara. If you're looking for things to do in Nara, be sure to check it out! ◆Tsubosakadera Temple◆ 【Address】3 Tsubosaka, Takatori-cho, Takaichi-gun, Nara 635-0102, Japan 【Access】 By Car: Drive southeast from the Katsuragi IC on Minami Hanna Road (approx. 30 min. by car) By Train: From Kintetsu Osaka Abenobashi, get off at Tsubosaka-yama bound for Yoshino (about 40 minutes via express train), then take a bus or taxi. 【Telephone】0744-52-2016 【Hours】8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 【Admission Fee】Adults (18 years and older) ¥600, children ¥100, young children (5 years and younger) free of charge. ¥300 for visitors with disabilities upon presentation of a disability certificate. ※Fees and hours are subject to change. Please check the official website for the latest information. 【Parking】Available (Lot 1: 33 spaces / Lot 2: 53 spaces) (Please check the official website for details.) 【TripAdvisor】Tsubosakadera Temple

Welcome Spring Early in Yanagawa, Fukuoka — “Yanagawa Hina Festival: Sagemon Meguri” If you want to welcome spring a little early in Yanagawa, Fukuoka, head to the “Yanagawa Hina Festival: Sagemon Meguri.” As the Girls’ Festival season approaches, the town of Yanagawa gently fills with color, and vibrant hanging decorations begin to sway throughout tourist facilities and shopping streets. As you stroll through the area, you may come across scenes that feel as if flowers are falling from above, making you want to reach for your camera. In this article, we'll introduce the history and fun facts behind the festival and share tips on how to explore it in a way that truly enhances your experience. We’ll also cover river cruises, local cuisine, and travel-planning ideas. What Is the Yanagawa Hina Festival: Sagemon Meguri? Photo: Sagemon decorations from the Yanagawa Hina Festival in Yanagawa, Fukuoka The “Yanagawa Hina Festival: Sagemon Meguri” is a citywide Girls’ Festival event held across various locations throughout Yanagawa. Unique hanging decorations called “sagemon,” along with traditional hina dolls displayed for Hinamatsuri, decorate tourist facilities, shopping streets, and storefronts throughout the city. Simply strolling around naturally becomes a sightseeing tour of highlights. There is no fixed route, so you can stop by any displays that catch your interest. Whether you prefer a quick visit or a leisurely half-day exploration, you can tailor the experience to your travel style. As the entire town becomes more colorful, photo opportunities increase with every step. For 2026, the festival is scheduled to take place from February 11, 2026, to April 3, 2026, although dates may change depending on weather conditions. Because the event runs for an extended period, it is easier to plan a relaxed weekday visit and avoid the busier weekends or special event days. During the festival period, special events are also planned, such as the “Ohinasama Opening Ceremony and Procession” and the “Ohinasama Water Parade,” both of which reflect the charming atmosphere of this historic canal town. A recommended way to enjoy the festival is to view the displays, watch the events, and then savor the lingering atmosphere with a river cruise. This sequence allows you to experience spring in Yanagawa in a rich and immersive way. Photo: Ohinasama Water Parade at the Yanagawa Hina Festival in Yanagawa, Fukuoka Examples of the main event schedule include the “Ohinasama Opening Ceremony and Procession” on February 11, and the “Ohinasama Water Parade” on March 15 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:20 p.m., which will be postponed to March 20 in case of rain. The “Nagashi-bina Festival,” in which paper hina dolls are set afloat on the water to pray for good health and protection from misfortune, is scheduled for April 3. Before the main festival period, a “Sagemon Exhibition and Sale” will be held on January 31 and February 1. During the festival, “Yanagawa Kimono Biyori” is also scheduled for March 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 【Video】（1:39）～ Yanagawa is a town where your journey deepens as you walk through shopping streets, along the canals, and make spontaneous stops at displays that catch your eye. It is truly an event designed for leisurely exploration. What Is Sagemon? The Story Behind Its 51 Decorations Photo: Sagemon decorations from the Yanagawa Hina Festival in Yanagawa, Fukuoka Sagemon are distinctive hanging decorations unique to Yanagawa, made by stringing together auspicious fabric ornaments and “Yanagawa mari,” which are traditional decorative balls. Typically, 49 ornaments are hung in seven strands of seven from a bamboo ring, with two larger Yanagawa mari placed in the center, making a total of 51 decorations. The number 51 is not arbitrary. In an era when a lifespan of 50 years was considered the norm, people added one more to express the wish that a child would live even one year longer. Knowing this story adds deeper meaning to the decorations. Rather than simply admiring their beauty in the video, try recalling the significance of the number when you see them in person. The scene before you will feel even more meaningful. As an additional fun fact, many of the small ornaments on sagemon represent auspicious symbols such as cranes, turtles, and shrimp, each carrying its own meaning. Cranes and turtles symbolize longevity, plum blossoms represent healthy growth as they bloom before spring, peaches symbolize protection from misfortune, and cherry blossoms express the joy of spring. The more you notice, the more you can feel the celebratory spirit behind each piece. While exploring, try spotting cranes, turtles, and shrimp as if playing a small treasure hunt game. The moment you find one, your excitement for the journey will rise another level. 【Video】（0:59）～ How to Explore: A Simple Model Course Yanagawa is a town best enjoyed not as isolated points, but as a continuous flow of experiences. Here is a recommended classic route. Photo: Hina doll display and sagemon at the Yanagawa Hina Festival in Yanagawa, Fukuoka [Morning] Focus on the displays 1. Arrive at Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station 2. Explore sagemon displays in the shopping street area 3. Head to the Okinohata area for a waterside stroll Photo: Yanagawa’s famous dish, steamed eel in a bamboo steamer [Afternoon Meal] Enjoy local cuisine Yanagawa’s famous steamed eel in a bamboo steamer is a must-try. On busy days, it is recommended to arrive early or make a reservation. Photo: River cruising in Yanagawa, Yanagawa, Fukuoka [Afternoon] River cruise experience A river cruise through the canals on a traditional flat-bottomed “donkobune” boat takes about one hour. The estimated fee ranges from 1,800 to 2,000 yen for adults, depending on the course. After walking through town, relaxing on the boat is one of the true pleasures of a trip to Yanagawa. Additional Spots to Visit Photo: Tachibana Residence Ohana, former residence of the Yanagawa domain lord [Tachibana Residence Ohana] Visiting hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with general admission at 1,200 yen. Please check the official website for details such as closing days. After enjoying the vibrant displays of the Sagemon Meguri, stepping into Ohana brings a calm shift in atmosphere, gently resetting the rhythm of your journey. The quiet garden, historic architecture, and seasonal colors create a serene setting. During the sagemon season, the contrast between refined elegance and festive color leaves a lasting impression. Photo: Kitahara Hakushu Birthplace and Memorial Museum in Yanagawa, Fukuoka [Kitahara Hakushu Birthplace and Memorial Museum] Open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., last admission at 4:30 p.m., with admission at 600 yen for adults. As you walk along Yanagawa’s waterways, there are moments when the atmosphere feels almost poetic. This museum puts that feeling into words, introducing the world of Kitahara Hakushu, a poet born in this water town. It adds depth to your stroll. The site also appears in the video at 0:24. Watching it beforehand can deepen your sense of immersion when you visit. After viewing the exhibits, walking again along the canals offers a fresh perspective on the same scenery. Photo: Okinohata area in Yanagawa, Fukuoka [Strolling the Okinohata Area] Located near the river cruise boarding area, this district allows you to fully enjoy the scenery of a classic canal town. Walking here makes you truly feel that Yanagawa is a “city of water.” With canals close at hand, along with bridges, reflections, and the presence of boats, the atmosphere enhances the sense of travel. It is the perfect place to pause during your sagemon exploration and simply soak in the atmosphere of Yanagawa. Tips for Avoiding Crowds and Access Information Weekends and event days tend to be crowded, so it is recommended to explore the displays in the morning and enjoy a river cruise in the afternoon. On rainy days, focusing on indoor exhibitions ensures a more comfortable visit. From Fukuoka Airport, the easiest route is via Tenjin and then taking the Nishitetsu train line, following the route Fukuoka Airport → Tenjin → Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station. If traveling by car, the city is accessible from nearby highway interchanges. Conclusion: Watch the Video and Complete Your Spring in Yanagawa The Yanagawa Hina Festival: Sagemon Meguri is a Girls’ Festival that comes alive through exploration. Learn the meaning behind the 51 decorations, experience history at Ohana, immerse yourself in the world of Kitahara Hakushu, and relax on a river cruise surrounded by the atmosphere of this canal town. Finish with steamed eel in a bamboo steamer, and your spring journey will be a true success. Start by watching the video to set the mood, then head to Yanagawa in Fukuoka Prefecture. Go and experience that gentle sway of color for yourself. Official website: https://www.crossroadfukuoka.jp/en/event/11874

Video introduction of "Nagashi Hina" at Shimogamo-jinja Shrine in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture This video, titled "[Past Video] Kyoto Nagashibina at Shimogamo Shrine (Filmed in Sakyo, Kyoto, March 3, 2017)" (【過去動画】下鴨神社「京の流しびな」（2017年3月3日撮影　京都市左京区）), was uploaded by "Kyoto Shimbun" (京都新聞). The Nagashibina at Shimogamo Shrine, held annually on March 3rd and scheduled for 2026 as well, is a representative traditional event of Kyoto. In early spring, when the cold still lingers, the serene atmosphere above the Mitarashi River and the plum tree buds herald the arrival of spring. Watch the video to see hina dolls dressed in junihitoe (twelve-layered kimono), male dolls in traditional court attire, and even mascot characters. Made of Japanese paper and placed on sandawara (vessels woven from straw), the dolls are floated down the Mitarashi River at Shimogamo Shrine's Nagashibina ceremony. What is Nagashibina? What is the History Behind the Roots of Hinamatsuri? Photo: Nagashibina at Shimogamo Shrine (Kamo Mioya Shrine), Kyoto Kamo Mioya Shrine in Kyoto, a World Heritage Site, is commonly known as "Shimogamo Shrine." The Nagashibina at Shimogamo Shrine, held every March, is a traditional event said to be the roots of Hinamatsuri. Tracing its history, the event originated from "Joshi no Sekku" (Seasonal Festival of the First Snake), one of the five seasonal festivals introduced from China. March 3rd corresponds to the second of the five seasonal festivals, "Joshi no Sekku." On this day in ancient China, there was a custom of purifying the body by the waterside and holding banquets to ward off misfortune. These ancient Chinese sekku rituals combined with Japanese beliefs in misogiharai (purification rituals), and the custom of praying for good health by floating purified hitogata (paper dolls) down rivers, are believed to have evolved into the modern Nagashibina. These "hitogata" are also considered the origins of modern hina dolls. The practice of purifying katashiro (substitute forms) and placing them on boats to float out to the sea at Suma is even mentioned in "The Tale of Genji," written in the mid-Heian period. When is Nagashibina at Shimogamo Shrine 2026? What Kind of Event is It? Photo: A Nagashibina doll at Shimogamo Shrine (Kamo Mioya Shrine), Kyoto Let us introduce the Nagashibina at Shimogamo Shrine 2026. The couple dressed in Heian period costumes as the hina dolls are selected from couples planning to marry through public recruitment. [Video] 0:25 - Hina Dolls Selected Through Public Recruitment The event is scheduled for March 3, 2026 (Tuesday). Registration begins at 10:00 AM, the junihitoe dressing ceremony is open to viewing from 10:30 AM, and the Nagashibina ritual begins around 11:00 AM. Please check the official website for detailed information. The Nagashibina ceremony takes place along the Mitarashi River, which flows in front of Mitarashi Shrine (Mitarashi-sha) and Inoue Shrine (Inoue-sha), auxiliary shrines within the precincts. Hina dolls made of Japanese paper are placed in sandawara and floated down the river to pray for children's good health and safety. Highlights include the public viewing of the junihitoe dressing ceremony, as well as seeing the human-portrayed hina dolls wearing the magnificent twelve-layered kimono and the male dolls in court attire. The Nagashibina ceremony scenes evoke the historical elegance characteristic of ancient Kyoto. The ceremony is free to observe. Nagashibina dolls are available for a fee (small: 1,000 yen, large: 1,500 yen, including hina arare rice crackers). [Video] 1:02 - Many Nagashibina Dolls Floating on the River Surface On the day of the event, amazake (sweet sake) is also served—a welcome treat during the chilly season. Where Can You See Nagashibina Events Across Japan? Photo: Nagashibina Hinamatsuri In addition to Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto, Nagashibina ceremonies and events are held throughout Japan. Here are some examples: ●Hina Nagashi at Awashima Shrine, Wakayama Prefecture Following purification by the shrine priest, hina dolls dedicated from throughout Japan, along with katashiro paper with written wishes, are floated out to sea. Known as "Hina Nagashi," this ceremony uses three white wooden boats. Usually held on March 3. ●Edo Nagashibina by Edo Nagashibina Promotion Association, Tokyo This "Edo Nagashibina" event is held to pass on traditional customs to children and to wish for a bright future. Please check the website for details. ●Yose no Nagashibina by Yose Nagashibina Executive Committee, Yose, Tottori Prefecture An event where dolls are floated down the Sendai River on the lunar calendar's March 3rd to pray for good health and safety. Designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Tottori Prefecture in 1985 as "Yose no Nagashibina." ●Heike Hina Nagashi Ceremony at Akama Shrine, Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture This "Heike Hina Nagashi Ceremony" is held every March to comfort the spirits of Emperor Antoku and the Heike clan who perished young in the Battle of Dan-no-ura. How to Visit Nagashibina at Shimogamo Shrine 2026? Summary Regardless of era or region, "Nagashibina" has always embodied wishes for good health and bright futures for children. Throughout Japan, purification dolls are modeled after oneself, symbolizing the washing away of impurities in water to achieve purification. This event is held in March when plum blossoms perfume the spring air. While the ceremonies and customs held in various regions have evolved slightly in each locality, the underlying sentiment has remained unchanged from ancient times to the present. Why not experience Nagashibina at Shimogamo Shrine while enjoying tourism and events in various locations at the beginning of spring 2026? 【Official Website】Shimogamo Shrine｜Kamo Mioya Shrine 【TripAdvisor】Shimogamo Shrine

Hyogo, Wakayama, Nara, Kyoto, and Mie｜8 Must-See Plum Blossom Spots in Kansai and Nearby Sightseeing Ideas. The flower that signals the arrival of spring earlier than any other is the plum blossom. It begins blooming a little ahead of cherry blossoms, and with its soft, drifting fragrance and red-and-white hues, it lets you feel the very moment when the season turns. In this article, we focus on eight plum blossom spots in Hyogo, Wakayama, Nara, Kyoto, and Mie featured in a YouTube video. We explain each site’s highlights, origins, and unique characteristics in detail, and we also introduce nearby attractions worth adding to your itinerary. Where Did Plum Blossom Viewing Begin? Was It Really the Star Before Cherry Blossoms? Photo: Plum blossoms Today, “hanami” usually means cherry blossom viewing. However, during the Nara period, the true “star flower” was the plum blossom. In the Manyoshu, poems that include the character for “plum” are said to outnumber those mentioning “cherry blossoms,” showing how deeply people of the time were moved by plums.There is also a record that in Tenpyo 2 (730), a “Plum Blossom Banquet” was held in Dazaifu, where attendees composed poems inspired by plum blossoms.Back then, plum blossoms were not so much a flower that had long been part of Japan, but rather a new and admired flower introduced from China. As time went on, flower viewing as a leisure activity shifted its focus to cherry blossoms, while plums continued to be cherished for their fragrance, association with learning, and auspicious symbolism.With their red-and-white colors symbolizing good fortune, and their ability to bloom after enduring winter, plum blossoms have blended naturally into everyday life as a lucky motif.They are dazzling at full bloom, and when the petals begin to fall, there are moments that can even evoke the swirl of falling cherry blossoms. Plum blossoms feel like flowers that quietly show us the entrance to spring. When Is the Best Time to See Plum Blossoms in Kansai? A Quick Guide to Bloom Timing Broadly speaking, the plum blossom season in Kansai runs from late January to late March.That said, even within Kansai, the timing can shift easily depending on coastal versus inland areas, mountain valleys, and elevation, so the peak period can be tricky to predict. A Simple Guide From First Bloom to Peak Season Wakayama (Minabe): Easy to plan for early in the season. The grove typically opens from late January, with peak viewing around mid-February.Kyoto (city areas): From February through March. The Tenmangu Shrine Plum Blossom Festival (late February) is also a seasonal cue.Nara (Tsukigase and Gojo): Mainly mid-February through March. Tsukigase spreads across a gorge with around 10,000 trees.Hyogo (Kobe and the foothills of Mt. Rokko): In some years the plum blossom season doesn't really take off until March. The Hokura Plum Grove is usually at its best from the middle of March.Mie (Inabe and Suzuka): Late February through March. Suzuka no Mori Garden is especially known for its nighttime atmosphere. 1. Hokura Plum Grove (Kobe, Hyogo)｜A “Reward” of Plum Blossoms Overlooking the City and Sea Photo: Hokura Plum Grove, Kobe, Hyogo You can see the scene at Hokura Plum Grove (00:45).Hokura Plum Grove was created in 1975 on Mt. Hokura in Higashinada Ward, Kobe, out of a desire to bring back the former Okamoto plum groves. With about 100 white and red plum trees, its biggest draw is the view framed by the cityscape and the sea.The highlight is the moment when the view suddenly opens up after the climb. The fragrance seems to bring spring ahead of time, and even the slope beneath your feet becomes part of a “small journey.” Many visitors enjoy a quiet walk rather than a picnic-style party, but on popular days it can feel a bit like people are claiming spots. Comfortable walking shoes are a good idea. Nearby attractions (Kobe, Hyogo) After visiting Hokura Plum Grove, stopping by the nearby Hokura Shrine before heading back down the mountain is a natural next step. Okamoto Plum Grove Park has around 200 trees and a wide variety of cultivars. It is close to the station and great for “plum-hopping.” After descending, taking a café break or strolling around the Hankyu Okamoto Station area is a pleasant way to settle into the afterglow of your hike. If you want to add a more classic sightseeing touch, consider visiting the Nada sake breweries, which are easy to reach from Higashinada. You can learn at the visitor facilities and pick out souvenirs as well. Basic information Best season: From mid-March onward (varies by year) Access: About a 40-minute walk from Hankyu “Okamoto Station” (approximate)Admission: Free(transportation and nearby facilities not included) Official website: https://www.city.kobe.lg.jp/b07715/kuyakusho/higashinadaku/shoukai/shoukai/ume.html 2. Minabe Plum Grove (Minabe Town, Wakayama)｜A Vast Plum Grove Known as “A Million at a Glance, Fragrance for Ten Miles” Photo: Minabe Plum Grove, Minabe Town, Wakayama You can see the scene at Minabe Plum Grove (02:21).Minabe Plum Grove is one of Japan’s largest, often described as “a million blossoms at a glance, fragrance for ten miles.” As you walk through the aromatic air, it feels like you can hear spring drawing closer. The grove typically opens from late January to early March, with peak viewing around mid-February.Minabe Town is also known as a major plum-producing region, where plums are closely tied not only to tourism but also to everyday life and local work. Here, words like umeboshi and traditional plum processing feel less like a simple local specialty and more like something you can experience as living culture. Nearby attractions (Wakayama) Around Minabe Plum Grove, there are plenty of easy detours where you can experience what it means to be in a plum-producing region. Pairing your walk with shopping for plum products or visiting related facilities helps the scenery linger as “flavor memories,” too. If you have more time, heading toward Shirahama to add a coastal walk with dramatic views, or a day-use soak in Shirahama Onsen, can elevate the trip into a truly satisfying spring getaway. Basic information Location: Banre area, Minabe Town, Hidaka District, Wakayama Prefecture Hours: 8:00–17:00 (during the open season) Admission: Adults 500 yen, elementary and junior high school students 200 yen (approximate) Access: About 5–6 minutes by car from Minabe IC (approximate) Parking: Paid Official website: https://minabebairin.com 3. Ano Plum Grove (Gojo City, Nara)｜A Story of 20,000 Trees Inspired by Yoshino Photo: Ano Plum Grove, Gojo City, Nara You can see the scene at Ano Plum Grove (04:09).Ano Plum Grove spreads across the hills of Nishiyoshino, Gojo City, Nara Prefecture, with around 20,000 plum trees.What makes it special is the way the viewing areas are named “Hitome Senbon,” “Mikaeri Senbon,” and “Oku no Senbon,” echoing the famous cherry blossom zones of Mt. Yoshino. You can feel the ambition to create a spring experience with plums that can stand alongside Yoshino’s blossoms.Allow about three hours to explore the area. If you take your time, pausing at viewpoints and breathing in the fragrance rather than rushing, the scenery stays with you long after you leave. Nearby attractions (Nara) One of the best parts of Ano Plum Grove is how you can layer a sense of history onto the plum scenery. If you visit the nearby former Ano Imperial Palace site (Hori Family Residence), you will gain a better sense of this area’s background, which makes the plum landscape even more memorable. On the way back, stopping by Gojo Shinmachi Street to stroll through an Edo-period townscape and take a break with something sweet connects nature and town walking, adding density to your day. Basic information Location: Kitazogi, Nishiyoshino-cho, Gojo City, Nara Prefecture Best season: Late February to early March (approximate) Inquiry: 0747-33-0301 (local) Official website: https://www.city.gojo.lg.jp/soshiki/nishiyoshino/1/2015.html 4. Tsukigase Plum Valley (Nara City, Nara)｜A “Spring Panorama” of Gorge, Lake, and 10,000 Trees Photo: Tsukigase Plum Valley, Nara City, Nara You can see the scene at Tsukigase Plum Valley (05:43). Tsukigase Plum Valley is one of Japan’s leading plum blossom destinations, with more than 10,000 trees stretching along the gorge of the Satsukigawa (Nabari River). It was designated a National Scenic Spot in 1922.Peak season is around mid-February through March. The fragrance lingers as if pooling in the gorge, and the scenery seems to loosen and open up the more you walk, a signature charm of Tsukigase.And this is a place that goes beyond being simply “photogenic.” It is said that plum trees were first planted in the precincts of Shinpukuji Temple in the Kamakura period, and the area later drew poets and scholars. That depth of time gives the landscape a quiet sense of presence. Nearby attractions (Nara City, Nara) Because Tsukigase Plum Valley is best enjoyed on foot along the gorge, the perfect nearby plan is one that warms you up and neatly rounds out the day. After your walk, soak and unwind at Ume no Sato Tsukigase Onsen to melt away the chill and the fatigue that tends to build up in this season. If you have extra time, stopping by a nearby roadside station to pick out local foods and souvenirs adds another small pleasure to the trip home.. Basic information Access: About 80 minutes by bus from JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station (approximate) Best season: Mid-February to March (approximate) Official website: https://www.city.nara.lg.jp/sightseeing/naraharu/112100.html 5. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (Kyoto City, Kyoto)｜Plum Blossoms, Learning, and the Legend of the “Flying Plum” Photo: Plum Garden “Hana no Niwa” at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto You can see the scene at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (08:13).Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is a Tenmangu shrine associated with Sugawara no Michizane and is affectionately known as “Tenjin-san.” It has a deep connection with plum blossoms, and the plum tree in front of the main hall is said to be a special tree that carries on the plum Michizane loved.Visiting amid the fragrance of plum blossoms offers a calm, centering stillness that goes beyond prayers for academic success.During plum season, many visitors also come to receive goshuin stamps, and the atmosphere on the grounds feels even more like a springtime event. As the opening period, program details, and fees for the plum garden vary by year, it is best to check the official announcement shortly before your visit. Nearby attractions (Kyoto City, Kyoto) The area around Kitano Tenmangu Shrine makes it easy to build a classic “Kyoto highlights” itinerary, even for first-time visitors. After visiting the plum garden and paying your respects, consider heading to Kinkakuji or Ryoanji to experience Kyoto’s iconic scenery and quiet beauty in a single day. If you would rather slow down, stroll around the Kamishichiken and Nishijin neighborhoods. Adding a break for wagashi sweets or a light meal helps keep the day relaxed rather than rushed. Basic information Location: Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City (Kitano Tenmangu Shrine)Plum garden and program details: Periods and fees vary by year (check official announcements)Official website: https://kitanotenmangu.or.jp/guidance/baien/ 6. Jonangu Shrine (Kyoto City, Kyoto)｜A Garden Where Weeping Plums and Camellias Overlap in Spring Photo: Weeping plums and fallen camellias at Jonangu Shrine, Kyoto You can see the scene at Jonangu Shrine (09:51).Jonangu Shrine was founded to the south of Kyoto at the time of the Heian capital’s establishment and has long been revered as a major shrine for protection against misfortune.In spring, it is famous for the “Weeping Plum and Camellia Festival,” where about 150 weeping plum trees and around 400 camellias can be enjoyed at the same time. As the blossoms begin to fall, the “carpet of petals” covering the ground is another highlight.Nighttime cherry blossoms are wonderful, too, but Jonangu feels best enjoyed in daylight, when you can slowly appreciate the textures of the flowers. To avoid crowds, visiting right after opening or on weekdays is generally more comfortable. Nearby attractions (Kyoto City, Kyoto) After Jonangu Shrine, linking your trip to the Fushimi area makes the sightseeing plan easy to organize. Fushimi is known as a sake-brewing district. Combining a stroll through the brewery townscape with museum visits adds cultural depth to a flower-viewing outing. If you have time, Fushimi Inari Taisha is also a great option. With a mix of worship and walking, even a half-day outing can feel well-rounded, with “seeing, walking, and tasting” all covered. Basic information Weeping Plum and Camellia Festival: Feb 18 to Mar 22 (varies by year)Visiting hours: 9:00–16:30 (last admission 16:00)Admission fee: Adults 1,000 yen, elementary school students 600 yen (varies by period and category)Official website: https://www.jonangu.com/shidareume.html 7. Inabe City Plum Grove Park (Inabe City, Mie)｜A “Color Patchwork” of Mountains and Plum Blossoms Photo: Inabe City Plum Grove Park, Inabe City, Mie You can see the scene at Inabe City Plum Grove Park (11:45).Inabe City Plum Grove Park is a well-known plum blossom spot located within the Inabe City Agricultural Park in Mie Prefecture. During the plum festival period, an admission fee is charged, and opening hours are generally from 9:00 to 16:00.The sight of colors spreading across the slopes looks especially crisp on clear days, and some visitors may immediately think of great photo opportunities.That said, this feels less like a place made solely for photographs and more like a place to take in the entire landscape from the observation decks. While enjoying sheer scale, like counting cherry trees, can be fun, Inabe’s appeal is how clearly you can see differences in varieties through color, with highlights scattered throughout the park. Nearby attractions (Inabe City, Mie) After Inabe City Plum Grove Park, adding a relaxing detour in the Ageki area can boost overall satisfaction. There are facilities where you can enjoy hot springs, saunas, and meals, which is perfect for the chilly plum blossom season. If you have extra time, a short stroll through Ageki’s shopping streets before heading home is also recommended. It is a pleasant way to soak up “just a little more” local atmosphere at the end of your trip. Basic information Location: 717 Kanae, Fujiwara-cho, Inabe City, Mie PrefectureHours: 9:00–16:00Admission fee: Adults 500 yen (approximate, during the plum festival period)Official event information: Updated as neededOfficial website: https://www.kankomie.or.jp/event/11313 8. Suzuka no Mori Garden (Suzuka City, Mie)｜A “Weeping Plum Chandelier” Floating in the Night Photo: Suzuka no Mori Garden, Suzuka City, Mie You can see the scene at Suzuka no Mori Garden (14:27).Suzuka no Mori Garden is a research and cultivation farm for weeping plum trees operated by the Akatsuka Botanical Garden Group. The garden has about 200 notable trees, and it is striking how clearly the purpose of preserving and passing down pruning and training techniques is stated.The signature highlights are the trees known as “Heaven’s Dragon” and “Earth’s Dragon,” estimated to be more than 100 years old. They are especially admired as ancient specimens of Kureha weeping plums.And this is a place where nighttime can be the main event. During the illumination period, the garden stays open until 20:30 (last admission 20:00), and watching the blossoms glow against the darkness creates a fantastical atmosphere distinct from nighttime cherry blossoms.Dress warmly. On windy days, it can feel much colder than you might expect. Nearby attractions (Mie Prefecture) One of the best things about Suzuka no Mori Garden is how easy it is to plan nearby sightseeing around your preferred style of trip. If you want to add a quiet, reflective moment, visiting Tsubaki Grand Shrine is a great option, with forest air that helps you reset. For family trips, pairing the outing with Suzuka Circuit makes planning easier by adding a major attraction. If you spend the evening out for the illuminations, ending the day by warming up in the Yunoyama Onsen area leaves a clean, satisfying afterglow. Basic information Location: 151-2 Yamamoto-cho, Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture Open period: Feb 21 to late March (planned, varies by year) Fee: 700–2,000 yen (varies depending on bloom conditions) Access: Approximate travel times available from Kintetsu Yokkaichi Station, JR Yokkaichi Station, Kintetsu Komono Station, and others Official website: https://www.akatsuka.gr.jp/group/suzuka/index.html Conclusion｜Plum Blossoms in Kansai Become a “Spring Story,” Including the Journey Itself Plum blossom destinations in Kansai each have completely different expressions, even though they all feature the same flower. Overlooking the sea and city (Hokura Plum Grove, Kobe, Hyogo) Enveloped by fragrance on a grand scale (Minabe Plum Grove, Minabe Town, Wakayama) A story inspired by Yoshino (Ano Plum Grove, Gojo City, Nara) Walking through a scenic gorge (Tsukigase Plum Valley, Nara City, Nara) The bond between learning and plums (Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto City, Kyoto) Overlapping seasons in a garden (Jonangu Shrine, Kyoto City, Kyoto) A mountain panorama of colors (Inabe City Plum Grove Park, Inabe City, Mie) A fantasy that comes alive at night (Suzuka no Mori Garden, Suzuka City, Mie) For travel planning, Kyoto is easy to organize as day trips centered on temples and shrines, while in Nara, the time spent walking itself adds to the satisfaction of the journey. In Mie, combining a car or tour makes travel much more comfortable, and the flexibility to change destinations depending on fees and bloom conditions is a major advantage.Lastly, because flowering forecasts can fluctuate from place to place, checking official bloom updates once before departure will help you travel with peace of mind. .caption-heading-2 { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; margin-bottom: 15px; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 40px; } .caption-information-table { background-color: #efefef; margin-top: -20px; margin-bottom: 50px; padding: 20px; border-radius: 8px; width: 90%; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-information-table.blue { background-color: #fffaef; } .caption-information-table .title { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; } @media screen and (max-width: 1024px) { .caption-information-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 30px 15px; } } .caption-heading-table .caption-text li { line-height: 2.5rem; margin-top: 1.3rem; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading { position: relative; border-left: 5px solid #ff1300; padding-left: 10px; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 50px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 1px 15px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-heading-table ul{ counter-reset: listnum; /* カウンターをリセット */ list-style: none; /* 標準のスタイルは消す */ font-size: 1.5rem !important; margin-bottom: 15px; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li{ margin-left: 1.1em; text-indent: -1.1em; font-weight: bold; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li::before{ counter-increment: listnum; /* counter-resetと同じ文字列 */ content: counter(listnum); /* カウントした数に応じて番号を表示 */ content: counter(listnum) ". 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What is Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko in Hino, Shiga? This video, titled "Good Sign Vol.14 "Hino" Hinamatsuri Travelogue" (Good Sign 第14回放送「日野」ひな祭り紀行), was uploaded by "Good Sign." It introduces Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko, a Hinamatsuri event in Hino, Shiga, located in Japan's Kansai region. Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko featured in the video is an annual event held from early February to early March, from Okubo in southeastern Shiga, to the shopping arcade and merchant residences of Murai and Nishioji, and has become a beloved spring tradition. The cityscape of Hino has a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of Japan's Showa Period. Hina dolls are displayed along the streets and in merchant houses. There are also special viewing windows called "sajiki-mado" (桟敷窓) with which you can enjoy dolls that are on display. This can be seen from 1:00 in the video. Check out the video to see what kind of event "Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko" is. What is Hinamatsuri - A Traditional Japanese Event? Photo:Hinamatsuri Hinamatsuri is an event celebrated on March 3rd, traditionally known as "Momo no Sekku" (the Peach Festival) to wish for the healthy growth of girls by decorating hina dolls with peach-blossoms, serving hina-arare (sweet rice cakes), and Japanese sweets, and preparing food such as chirashizushi, a type of bright and colorful sushi. Hina dolls generally consist of a male and female doll (Dairibina, 内裏雛), three or five court ladies (Kanjo, 官女), five musicians (gonin bayashi, 五人囃子), two ministers (Daijin, 大臣), and the protectors (Shicho, 仕丁). The history of Hinamatsuri dates back to before the Edo period (1603-1868). Nowadays, Hinamatsuri is a popular event for girls, where hina dolls are decorated and chirashizushi, sweets, and cakes are prepared. Also, during the event, children sing "Ureshii Hinamatsuri" (Happy Hinamatsuri), which can be seen at the end of the video. What is the History and Beginning of Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko? "Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko" started in 2008 with the aim of making Hino livelier, says Minoru Nakata, the organizer of the event, shown at 1:12 in the video. In the past, hina dolls were brought back by merchants of Hino for their daughters when they went out on business. Hino was a plain town where women and children generally stayed in the home. Now, there are more than 150 places, including the Omi Hino Merchant Museum (近江日野商人館), Omi Hino Merchant Furusato Hall (近江日野商人ふるさと館), Hino Machikado Kanno (日野まちかど感応館), and Umamioka Watamuki Shrine (馬見岡綿向神社), as well as merchant houses with sajiki windows, private homes, and store counters decorated with hina dolls, attracting tourists to Hino. Take the bus bound for Kitabataguchi (北畑口) from JR Omihachiman Station (JR近江八幡駅) or Omi Railway Hino Station (近江鉄道日野駅), and get off at Okubo Nishi (大窪西) or the Mukaimachi (向町) bus stop. There is also parking for those driving. You can also enjoy specialties, such as Omi Hino Beef, pickled vegetables from Hino, and Hino Udon. What are the Dates and Highlights of Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko 2026? Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko 2026 will be held from February 8 (Sunday) to March 8 (Sunday), 2026. The highlights include a number of historical dolls that can be seen from the sajiki windows, as well as messages from the dolls displayed on bamboo tubes, and hina mikuji (fortune slips). It might be delightful to view the dolls decorated along the tasteful streets from a rickshaw. During the event period, various activities will be held including Hino Hikiyama Festival hayashi performances, food experience restaurant "Hinamatsuri Gozen" (served from 11:00 to 14:00 at Omi Hino Merchant Furusato Hall), Hino Hiina Postcard Contest exhibition, and Hino Delicacy Market, making Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko 2026 even more enjoyable. A handwritten picture map showing the highlights of the West and East venues can be found on the website of Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko executive committee organizer Minoru Nakata, so please be sure to have it with you before visiting. What Can You Experience by Visiting Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko 2026? In this article, we introduced "Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko 2026" along with the video "Good Sign Vol.14 "Hino" Hinamatsuri Travelogue." You can get a good idea of what Hino looks like during the event. In addition to old hina dolls, cute origami dolls made by kindergarteners can also be seen in the video. If you're headed over to Shiga Prefecture, consider dropping by "Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko 2026"! 【Official Website】Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko - Hino Tourism Association 【Official Website】Hino Hinamatsuri Kiko Executive Committee Organizer Minoru Nakata's Website

The Complete Guide to the 2026 Nagasaki Lantern Festival One of the signature winter events in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture is the Nagasaki Lantern Festival. In 2026, it will be held from Friday, February 6 to Monday, February 23 (national holiday), and the city center will be illuminated in vivid colors by around 15,000 lanterns. On the opening day, Friday, February 6, the lanterns are lit from 18:00 following the lighting ceremony. From Saturday, February 7 onward, standard lighting hours are 17:00 to 22:00 (with lights extinguished at 21:00 on the final day). In addition, from Saturday, February 7 onward, the Shinchi Chinatown and Hamanomachi venues will be lit from 12:00 (subject to change due to weather and other conditions). What Is the History of the Nagasaki Lantern Festival? Photo: Nagasaki Lantern Festival The history of the Nagasaki Lantern Festival traces back to the “Shunsetsusai (Spring Festival)” celebrations held by the community in Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown. What began as a beloved event to celebrate Shunsetsu (the Lunar New Year) grew in popularity, and in 1994, it expanded in scale and became the “Nagasaki Lantern Festival.” Today, it is firmly established as a cherished winter tradition in Nagasaki. The idea of lighting the city with lanterns is said to originate from the Chinese custom of decorating with lanterns for Yuanxiao Festival. As a result, the festival naturally weaves in Chinese cultural elements, not only through illuminated decorations but also through events such as the Emperor’s Parade and Nagasaki's unique Jaodori dragon dance. What Are the Highlights of the Nagasaki Lantern Festival? (Four Key Points) There are four main highlights: a spectacle of colors, the energy of the parades, the main centerpiece returning for the first time in two years, and hands-on experiences and street food. Start by enjoying the shifting colors of the lanterns, as each venue offers a distinct atmosphere. Next, let the movement of the parades and performances lift your spirits. After taking in the highlight of the trip, this year’s one-of-a-kind main centerpiece, round things off with hands-on experiences and street food to end well and truly satisfied. Even for first-time visitors, following this order helps ensure you don’t miss much and naturally leads to a more satisfying experience. Highlight 1: A Spectacle of Colors What makes this festival so fun is that the venues are spread out, so “the scenery changes the more you walk.” As the dominant hues shift from red to pink to yellow, simply wandering becomes sightseeing in itself. For detailed lighting hours, please check the event information above. (This may change due to weather and other conditions.) Where Are the Most Striking Red Lantern Displays? (Hamanomachi, Chuo Park, Around Shinchi Chinatown) Photo: Nagasaki Lantern Festival The red zone is essentially the festival's main artery. In Hamanomachi (around the Kanko-dori shopping arcade), both the crowds and the density of lanterns stand out, and simply walking through instantly gives you the feeling of having truly arrived at the Nagasaki Lantern Festival. Chuo Park also hosts the opening lighting ceremony, making it an easy and convenient starting point for your evening. From Shinchi Chinatown toward Minato Park, large-scale displays and events tend to cluster, so for first-timers, this is the area you can confidently say is “not to be missed.” Where Are the Prettiest Pink Lantern Displays? (Shinchi Chinatown, Doza River) Photo: Nagasaki Lantern Festival at Doza River A well-known spot for pink lanterns stretches from around Shinchi Chinatown to the Doza River. Offical venue guides describe this area as a place where the riverside brightens with a rosy glow. Because it sits slightly away from the busiest core, your walking pace naturally slows, making it easier to enjoy photos and conversation. Reflections on the water also make it easy to capture social-media-friendly photos, even without special equipment. Where Does Yellow Feel Most Dreamlike? (Nakajima River, Meganebashi Bridge) Photo: Nagasaki Lantern Festival at Meganebashi Bridge The world of yellow centers on Nakajima River Park and the area around Meganebashi (Spectacles Bridge). Venue introductions describe it as a quintessential Nagasaki waterside scene, where yellow lanterns reflected on the river create a dreamlike view alongside Meganebashi. Meganebashi (Spectacles Bridge) is a stone bridge said to have been built in 1634 and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Part of it collapsed in the 1982 Nagasaki flood and was later restored, giving you a “story behind the view” to share as you visit. Along the Nakajima River embankment near the bridge, you can also find several heart-shaped stones (Heart Stones) embedded in the riverbank. Searching for them as you stroll has become a classic, treasure-hunt-style pastime. These Heart Stones were placed during improvements to the Nakajima River area following the Nagasaki flood disaster, and they are now also known as a spot associated with wishes for romance. Finding one gives you a small burst of joy, and it is an easy photo spot to introduce to overseas visitors, too, such as saying, “There are hidden hearts in the stones along the riverbank.” Highlight 2: The Energy of the Parades If the lanterns are the festival’s “still” charm, the events bring its “motion” to life. There are both street parades that weave through the city and performances held at venues. Picking events that fit your itinerary will significantly boost your overall experience. What Is the Emperor’s Parade? (Dates, Route, Scale) Photo: Nagasaki Lantern Festival Emperor’s Parade The Emperor’s Parade is a lavish procession inspired by how an emperor and empress might celebrate the New Year with the public during the Qing dynasty. Centered on the ceremonial palanquins carrying the emperor and empress, around 150 participants, including banner units, march in Chinese costumes. In 2026, the parade will be held on Saturday, February 14 and Saturday, February 21, following the officially designated route from Chuo Park to Minato Park, making it easy for travelers to plan ahead. It has also been announced that Mizuki Maehara will play the emperor on Saturday, February 21, which is likely to make that day especially popular. The Mazu Procession: Echoes of Nagasaki’s Port City HeritageThe Mazu (Maso) Procession recreates the ritual of enshrining Mazu, a deity revered for safe voyages, at the Mazu Hall of a To-dera (Chinese temple). Its appeal lies in experiencing, through the festival itself, how Nagasaki grew and prospered as a city shaped by the sea. When Can You See the Jaodori Dragon Dance? Photo: Jaodori dragon dance at the Nagasaki Lantern Festival Jaodori is a powerful performance said to have originated from Shinto rituals for rainmaking, with performers controlling a dragon body about 20 meters long. Venue information introduces it as being held every day during the festival, which is great for travelers because it reduces the risk of missing it due to scheduling. Times and locations may change, so checking the official schedule on the day is the most reliable approach. Where Can You Watch the Chinese Face-Changing Show? The face-changing show is most commonly watched at the Nagasaki Confucius Shrine (Koshi-byo). According to the shrine’s guidance, no reservation is required, you can watch with admission only, and in rainy weather, the show is performed in a covered corridor. The fees are also clearly stated: individual admission to the Confucius Shrine (including museum entry) is 660 yen for adults, 440 yen for high school students, and 330 yen for elementary and junior high school students. It is a helpful point for travelers who want to keep their trip budget organized. Highlight 3: The Long-Awaited Main Centerpiece What makes 2026 uniquely “this year only” is the new main centerpiece returning for the first time in two years. In 2025, a new centerpiece was shelved due to factors such as rising costs, but in 2026 it will be produced using a furusato nozei (hometown tax) fund. The new work in Minato Park is introduced as an 11-meter-tall piece called “Ryoma Seishin (ロンマー・ジンシェン)”, combining the zodiac horse with an ascending dragon. Minato Park is also a “hub” where large-scale displays and events tend to gather in addition to the main centerpiece. Even if you have limited free time on a guided tour, simply covering this venue can make it easier to feel satisfied with your visit. Highlight 4: Hands-On Experiences and Street Food If you want more than just viewing, focus on experiences and food. The strength here is not just the vibe, but that how to join, prices, and content are all clearly laid out. What Is the Candle Prayer Four-Hall Pilgrimage? (Locations, Content, Fee) The Candle Prayer Four-Hall Pilgrimage is an interactive program held at the Tojin Yashiki (Chinese Residents’ Compound) venue. You visit four halls that remain in an area where Chinese merchants once stayed, Doshindo, Tenho-do, Kannon-do, and Fukken Kaikan, and make a wish by lighting a red candle. The participation fee is 500 yen, and it is stated that all participants receive a commemorative gift. Walk-around events can easily become nonstop walking, but adding an “experience with a purpose” like this helps set a comfortable pace and makes it easier to stay energized into the evening. What Street Foods Are Popular? (Easy to Choose with Concrete Examples) Photo: Food stalls Event information notes that there are many stalls, and gives examples such as kakuni manju (steamed bun with braised pork belly), butaman (pork bun), chocolate yori-yori, hatoshi, ma lai gao (steamed sponge cake), and grilled soup dumplings. Booking a proper dinner reservation is great, but lantern-lit nights pair perfectly with food-hopping. Even during a tour’s free time, you can enjoy “a little bit of what you like” while adjusting your travel budget. On crowded days, it is smart to buy earlier, such as right after the lights turn on or between moves, when lines tend to be shorter. How Should You Get Around? (A Classic 2 to 3-Hour Route) If it’s your first time, the following order is easy to follow and hard to miss:Red (Hamanomachi, Chuo Park) → Pink (Doza River) → Yellow (Meganebashi Bridge) → Minato Park (main centerpiece) The lights turn on from 17:00. During the magic hour just after sunset, the deep blue sky and the lantern colors overlap beautifully, making the scenery look even more striking. How Do You Access the Venues? (Streetcars Are Convenient) Because the venues are scattered across the city center, the basic approach for travelers is streetcar plus walking. For key routes between venues and how to think about the nearest stops, it is safest to follow the official venue and access information. Summary The Nagasaki Lantern Festival in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture developed from Shunsetsusai and has now become a signature winter, walk-around event in Nagasaki. In 2026, it will run from February 6 to February 23, and with some days featuring 12:00 lighting, it is also easy to fit into your itinerary. Walk through the “spectacle of colors” in red, pink, and yellow, feel the cultural energy through the Emperor’s Parade, Jaodori, and the face-changing show, and mark “this year’s Nagasaki” with the main centerpiece returning after two years. Finally, round out your trip with the four-hall pilgrimage and street food-hopping to lock in a truly satisfying travel experience. Nagasaki City Official Tourism Site: Travel Nagasaki

About the Video of Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival If you're looking for a place where you can enjoy viewing cherry blossoms and feeling Japan's unique spring atmosphere, then look no further! There are many others just like yourself looking to relax among the cherry blossoms and enjoy the fresh spring breeze. Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, held in Kawazu, Shizuoka Prefecture is a festival where you can do just that. The beautiful 4K footage allows you enjoy the blissful atmosphere of the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. Be sure to follow along as you read this article! What Is Izu's Popular Tourist Attraction "Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival"? Photo：Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, held in Kawazu, Izu, is a beautiful festival where you can see the town of Kawazu covered with pink cherry blossoms. Kawazu Sakura is a type of cherry blossom tree that starts blooming earlier than most other cherry blossom trees, starting from around early February to early March. The origin of Kawazu cherry blossoms dates back to 1955, when one of the local townspeople found a tree growing amongst the weeds in his back yard. Back then the trees were called "Komine Sakura," but were renamed to 'Kawazu Sakura' in 1974. The Kawazu Sakura is characterized by its large petals and pink color, and when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, a flurry of falling cherry blossoms creates the most beautiful scenery. The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival is a popular festival that approximately one million tourists visit every year. People enjoy the festival by taking a walk along the river, or having a picnic in the park while drinking and enjoying food from food stands. It's often crowded so you might have to save a spot for a picnic beforehand. There are outhouses at the festival, along with regular restrooms throughout the park. Come experience the beautiful cherry blossoms at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival! When Is the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival Schedule? When Are the Kawazu Cherry Blossoms at Their Best? Source :YouTube screenshot The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival in Kawazu, Izu is a must-see festival for anyone interested in cherry blossoms or Japan's beautiful scenery. The cherry blossoms can be enjoyed in various ways depending on the location and time. There are approximately 8,000 cherry trees in Kawazu and about 850 along the Kawazu River. During full-bloom, these trees showcase the beauty of Kawazu. The one along the the Kawazu river are especially beautiful. You can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms at full bloom along the river for more than 4 kilometers! We recommend that you try to find your own little secret spot to avoid the crowds. This video shows you the cherry blossoms in full bloom at various spots along the Kawazu River at 0:28. Was there anything that caught your eye? There are also places where the cherry blossoms are lit up at night as well. It's an impressive sight that you can only experience at night time. Be sure to check it out if you have the chance, as it's one of the best parts of the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. There are also other cherry blossom festivals in the Kawazu area where you can see the cherry blossoms and rape blossoms in harmony with one another. The 36th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival in 2026 will be held from February 7 (Sat) to March 8 (Sun), 2026. The Kawazu cherry blossom bloom status for 2026 is expected to be the earliest in the past five years, with blossoms beginning to bloom in early February and reaching full bloom from mid-February onwards. The peak viewing period is when the blossoms are 60-80% in bloom, which is considered the most beautiful stage, and the full bloom period lasts approximately one to two weeks. The festival will feature various events including night cherry blossom illumination (6:00 PM to 9:00 PM), the "Kawazu Night Cherry Beer Train" where you can enjoy beer while viewing the night cherry blossoms, and dance performances. Around late January 2026, a map showing approximately 120 food stalls will be available, so be sure to check the official website. For the latest Kawazu cherry blossom bloom status, please check the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Bloom Information Hotline (0558-34-1560) or the live camera (https://livecam.town.kawazu.shizuoka.jp/). Where Are the Best Spots to See at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival? Source :YouTube screenshot During the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival in Izu, there are several spots we recommend visiting to enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms. As we mentioned above, one of the ways you can enjoy the cherry blossoms is with the illumination at night, shown at 5:02 in the video. Access to the cherry blossoms illumination is 20 minutes walking from Kawazu Station on the Izu Kyuko Line. It's an incredible scenic location, so don't forget to bring your camera! We also recommend going around and collecting your shuin stamp when visiting the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. There's a red stamp that's only available during the festival at Seisoku Temple nearby, so be sure not to miss it! Enjoying both the cherry blossoms and collecting your red seal stamps will make for an unforgettable trip. Summary of Izu's Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival The video, created by "Discover Nippon," is a beautiful 4K video that introduces the charm of the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival in Izu. If you're curious about the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival after reading this article, be sure to check out the video! If you love cherry blossoms or spring in Japan, then you'll love this festival! Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Kawazu! 【Official Website】Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival Info｜Official Website https://www.kawazuzakura.net/ 【Official Website】Kawazu, Kamogun, Shizuoka, Japan Town Official Website http://www.town.kawazu.shizuoka.jp/

What Is the Yoshida Shrine Setsubun Festival? A Video Introduction to the Powerful Oniyarai Ritual This video, titled “Yoshida Shrine Setsubun Festival in Kyoto 2016 | Tsuina (Oniyarai) Ritual” (京都 吉田神社 節分祭2016 追儺式〈鬼やらい〉), was produced by Kyo-yumoto Hatoya Zuihokaku (京湯元ハトヤ瑞鳳閣). Yoshida Shrine, located in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, hosts the Yoshida Shrine Setsubun Festival every year during the Setsubun season. Among the many Kyoto Setsubun festivals, this event is especially known for preserving ancient ritual forms. The video introduces the solemn scene of “Oniyarai,” a traditional demon-exorcising rite derived from the classical Tsuina ceremony. During the ritual, three oni—red, blue, and yellow—storm into the shrine grounds, shouting loudly and creating an overwhelming presence. They are then confronted by Hōsōshi, a ritual figure wielding a spear and shield, who performs symbolic movements rooted in ancient court ceremonies to drive the demons away. This dramatic combination of sacred ritual and theatrical intensity makes Oniyarai one of the most distinctive highlights among Kyoto Setsubun festivals. [Video] 1:17 – The energetic red oni What Kind of Shrine Is Yoshida Shrine? Its History and Spiritual Benefits Photo: Torii gate at Yoshida Shrine, Kyoto Yoshida Shrine stands in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, and has long been revered as a shrine for warding off misfortune and inviting good fortune. It lies at the foot of Mt. Yoshida, adjacent to Kyoto University’s Yoshida Campus, and is also known as a scenic spot surrounded by seasonal nature. The shrine was founded in 859 when Fujiwara no Yamakage enshrined the four deities of Kasuga Taisha in Nara as his clan’s guardian gods. Since the early Heian period, Yoshida Shrine has served as an important center of Shinto belief in Kyoto. The enshrined deities are Takemikazuchi no Mikoto, Iwainushi no Mikoto, Amenokoyane no Mikoto, and Himegami. The shrine is particularly associated with protection from misfortune and disaster, which is why it plays such a central role in Kyoto Setsubun festivals. Within the shrine grounds are also deities connected to food and confectionery, attracting chefs and traditional sweets artisans who come to pray for success. The Yoshida Shrine Setsubun Festival, which has continued since the Muromachi period, remains one of Kyoto’s most iconic winter traditions. What Is the Oniyarai Ritual at the Yoshida Shrine Setsubun Festival? Photo: Oniyarai ritual The Oniyarai ritual is performed at Yoshida Shrine on Setsubun day and is also known as a form of the Tsuina ceremony. While Setsubun is widely associated with bean-throwing (mamemaki), Yoshida Shrine preserves this more ancient style of ritual derived from early court traditions influenced by continental Asia. Three oni—red, blue, and yellow—appear, only to be confronted by Hōsōshi, who wears a mask with four golden eyes. Striking the ground with his spear and calling out loudly, he symbolically drives away misfortune. This powerful sequence is often remembered as one of the most striking scenes among Kyoto Setsubun festivals. It is said that children who cry out in fear of the oni will grow up strong and healthy. In practice, the oni often behave gently afterward, sometimes comforting children. In recent years, taking photos with the oni has also become popular, adding a friendly and memorable aspect to the deeply traditional Yoshida Shrine Setsubun Festival. [Video] 1:58 – Hōsōshi driving away the oni When Will the Yoshida Shrine Setsubun Festival Be Held in 2026? In 2026, the Yoshida Shrine Setsubun Festival is scheduled to take place from February 2 through February 4, following the traditional format. Centered on Setsubun day, the festival spans three days and is regarded as one of the largest Setsubun events in Kyoto. Based on official information and past records, the festival attracts an estimated total of around 500,000 visitors over the three-day period. The shrine grounds fill with worshippers seeking protection from misfortune, amulets, and the popular lucky beans. On February 2 and 3, approximately 800 food stalls and booths line the area, creating one of Kyoto’s most vibrant winter festival scenes. During these three days, special access is also granted to the normally restricted Daigengu Inner Precinct, making this an especially meaningful time for worshippers. What Are the Highlights of the Yoshida Shrine Setsubun Festival? Lucky Beans and the Popular Lottery One of the most anticipated traditions of the Yoshida Shrine Setsubun Festival is the distribution of lucky beans that come with lottery tickets. Purchasing these yaku-yoke fukumame allows visitors to participate in a long-running raffle supported by various sponsor companies. Each bag of lucky beans is priced at 300 yen and includes one lottery ticket. The draw is typically held around 1:00 p.m. on February 4, with results announced both at the shrine and through official channels. While the prizes vary each year, they often include practical and appealing items, adding to the excitement of the festival. Prizes are usually redeemable until late February, so winners are encouraged to confirm the details promptly. How Should You Prepare for Visiting the Yoshida Shrine Setsubun Festival in Kyoto? Photo: Yoshida Shrine, Sakyo, Kyoto Although Yoshida Shrine has a temporary parking area, it is unavailable during the Setsubun Festival period. Paid parking lots nearby are limited, so using public transportation is strongly recommended. Large-scale traffic restrictions are usually implemented around the shrine, particularly between Yoshida Shrine and the Higashi Ichijo Intersection. Kyoto winters can be quite cold, so visitors should dress warmly. For those visiting with small children, daytime visits are generally less crowded and easier to manage. During the day, the oni can often be seen walking through the shrine grounds and approach paths. Encountering them up close may be a little intimidating, but it is a unique experience that makes the Kyoto Setsubun Festival at Yoshida Shrine truly memorable. 【TripAdvisor】Yoshida Shrine

Right now, Japan’s kei trucks (keitora) are quietly gaining a stronger presence in the United States In the U.S., where full-size pickups are the norm, the sight of small trucks only about 1.5 meters wide lined up together is unforgettable once you see it. In this article, based on the video “【日本の評判】アメリカで日本の軽トラ人気の様子 rev,” we will take a look at how kei cars and kei trucks have been used in Japan, why Japanese kei trucks are becoming more popular in the U.S. right now, and what makes the Suzuki Carry, Daihatsu Hijet, and Honda Acty (often said to be especially popular overseas) so appealing. we will take our time and explore it all from the perspective of a kei-truck enthusiast. Photo: A kei truck working in a Japanese vineyard What kind of everyday life have Japan’s kei trucks been driving through? Kei trucks are vehicles that carry the feel of Japan’s worksites wherever they go. Along rice paddy paths, they trundle along with harvested vegetables stacked in crates on the bed, and at forestry sites, they climb mountain roads loaded with cut logs. In rural areas where farming and forestry thrive, such as Aomori Prefecture, kei trucks are not something special. They are closer to everyday tools, the kind you expect to see parked right in front of the house. Their compact size lets them slip into narrow farm roads and winding mountain routes, their three-way drop-side bed makes it easy to load and unload heavy cargo from the side, and their fuel efficiency and low running costs make them economical. You could list reasons endlessly, but in the end it comes down to one thing: they have been used for so long simply because they are convenient. What is interesting is that, in Japan, kei trucks are seen as “work tools,” yet once they reach the U.S., they are increasingly treated as “cars people want and choose on purpose.” Why are Japanese kei trucks popular in the United States? When you picture American road culture, what probably comes to mind first is a huge pickup truck. Full-size pickups rumbling down the highway are impressive, and they feel like “this is America.” Photo: Pickup trucks in the United States And then, all of a sudden, kei trucks from Japan show up lined up alongside them.A small, boxy vehicle that is only about half the length and width of a big pickup. Yet when people actually try using one on farms, private property, or in the narrow alleys of older towns, they start saying, “This size is just right.” Japan’s kei trucks were originally built to be used on tight roads and in limited spaces. That is why, even on America’s vast land, they can get into hard-to-reach areas on large properties and glide through back alleys in older towns without stress. They effortlessly handle tasks that were awkward with a big truck. On top of that, the U.S. has a system often called the “25-year rule.”Once a vehicle reaches a certain age, regulations become less strict, making it easier to import and register it as a classic car. As a result, kei trucks from the 1990s through the early 2000s are now beginning to make their way to the U.S.In Japan, a kei truck sold off with the thought, “Maybe it’s time to replace it,” is welcomed in the U.S. as “a slightly rare Japanese vehicle you can legally drive.” That is the quiet root of the kei truck's sudden rise in popularity in the US. Photo: Kei truck They are easy to maneuver, the bed is genuinely useful, and fuel economy is good.Prices also often stay within reach as a second vehicle, whether for work or for fun.Step by step, that is steadily increasing the number of people saying, “If I’m getting one more vehicle, my next one will be a kei truck.” Top 3 kei trucks said to be popular overseas Suzuki Carry, Daihatsu Hijet, and Honda Acty From here, we will look at the top three kei trucks said to be popular overseas, especially in the U.S., one by one.If you picture each one while matching the vibe of the video, they are all the kind of vehicles that make you grin. Suzuki Carry: The “worksite staple” chosen for durability Photo: A SUZUKI kei truck The biggest reason the Suzuki Carry introduced in 【動画】2:05 is highly regarded is, of course, its durability and peace of mind.For a vehicle used for work, being hard to break is more important than anything else. The Carry has a long track record of quietly working year after year in harsh environments, including farm roads, mountain routes, and construction sites. Because the design is traditional and simple, it is easy to maintain, and parts are relatively easy to source. Even older model years can keep running surprisingly well if they have been properly maintained. Some units, depending on the year, also come equipped with safety features such as dual airbags and ABS. That helps ease the worry that “it’s small, so it must be unsafe.” For these reasons, even at U.S. import shops specializing in kei trucks, the Carry often appears in larger numbers, and it tends to be a common pick for someone's first kei truck. Daihatsu Hijet: An all-rounder chosen for ease of driving and balance Photo: Daihatsu Hijet kei truck Next up is the Daihatsu Hijet, introduced in 【動画】4:05.It is a kei truck that has long reigned as a top seller in Japan, and that track record itself is like proof of reliability. The Hijet’s appeal lies in how well balanced it is overall. The cabin feels relatively roomy for a kei truck, making it easy to get in and out. From the driver’s seat, visibility is wide, and even though it is a “work tool,” it can feel closer to driving a passenger car. As for performance, it is not overly powerful, but it is not underpowered either. It feels just right.From paved roads to unpaved routes, it is an all-rounder that can handle almost anything without strain.That is why, in the U.S., it is not uncommon to hear people say, “If you’re getting your first kei truck, go with a Hijet.”If the Carry is the image of a “tough work tool,” then the Hijet is more like a “well-rounded kei truck that you can drive every day without getting tired.” Honda Acty: A “fun to drive” kei truck with a standout MR layout The third one is the Honda Acty.The Acty is a bit more niche among kei trucks.What makes it distinctive is that some generations use Honda’s unique mid-ship, rear-wheel-drive (MR) layout.With the engine mounted just behind the cabin, toward the front of the bed, the front-to-rear weight balance is good. That makes its movement feel natural and light when you turn the wheel.Even though it is a “tool for hauling,” it is also “a little fun to drive.”It offers the best of both worlds.Whether it is slipping smoothly through narrow city alleys or showing up at a rough job site, the Acty somehow always seems just as dependable and enjoyable to drive.For anyone who wants one vehicle to handle farm work and a casual weekend drive, it can be the perfect partner in kei-truck form. What the kei trucks in the video can teach us In the video “【日本の評判】アメリカで日本の軽トラ人気の様子 rev,” a lineup of vehicles that came from Japan fills the inside of a kei-truck specialty shop. And it is not just the “usual suspects” like the Carry, Hijet, and Acty. The Pajero Mini VR-2 introduced in 【動画】2:20, with gimmicks like full-flat seats and overhead grab straps, feels less like a kei truck and more like a “tiny adventure tool.” Fold the seats down and it looks like you could create enough space to sleep in the car, and straps hang from the ceiling for hooking gear. In Japan, it is known as a “kei car that’s handy for a bit of fun,” but from an American point of view, it likely feels like one surprise after another, as in, “It’s this small, and they thought of all this?” The Subaru Sambar dump model introduced in 【動画】4:27 is a vehicle that packs a serious dump function into a small body. Seeing the bed lift up with a big clunk is exciting no matter how many times you watch, if you like kei trucks. If you imagine it loaded with gravel, soil, or firewood and dumped all at once, it is easy to picture it working on an American farm or construction site. The Mitsubishi Minicab introduced in 【動画】4:32 does not make a flashy statement, but when it comes to being genuinely useful, it is extremely dependable. With its simple, straightforward build, it feels like the kind of vehicle that quietly keeps you company through daily work. Rather than “customize it to show off,” it is the kind of truck that owners who want to “work it hard on site” tend to appreciate.And kei vans like the Honda Street are also slowly gaining popularity in the U.S. With a large cargo area that feels like a kei truck bed turned into a box, it can be used for deliveries or even as a simple camper, depending on your ideas. Looking at them one by one, you can see that it would be a shame to lump everything together under the single label “kei truck.” Each model has its own distinct character. A kei truck that worked in Japan goes on to drive a “second life” in the United States Photo: Kei truck A kei truck that worked in rural Japan finishes its role, gets serviced by an exporter, is loaded into a container, and crosses the ocean.A vehicle that spent season after season driving through Aomori Prefecture’s apple orchards may be hauling hay on an American farm a few years later. Scenes like that are steadily becoming less unusual.A vehicle that was treated in Japan as “an old kei truck”is cared for in the U.S. as “a rare and convenient Japanese truck.”Even with the same kei truck, its value can change dramatically simply depending on who is looking at it and where it is used.That may be because a vehicle is not just a means of transportation, but also a tool that reflects how people live in that place. For anyone who is starting to get curious about kei trucks If you have read this far and found yourself imagining, “Which kei truck would I choose?”, then you already have one foot in the kei-truck world.If you want toughness, go with the Suzuki Carry.If you want a well-balanced truck that is easy to use every day, choose the Daihatsu Hijet.If you want a partner that is fun to drive, pick the Honda Acty.Then there is the question of how to mix in a “curveball” like a Sambar dump, or a kei van like the Honda Street.Spending time thinking about that may be part of what makes kei trucks so enjoyable.Whether you are in Japan or in the U.S., start by watching the video “【日本の評判】アメリカで日本の軽トラ人気の様子 rev” and imagining how you would use your one chosen vehicle.A kei truck born from Japan’s worksites might cross the ocean and become your next “potential partner.”

What is Diamond Fuji at Lake Yamanaka? Video Introduction This video, titled "Diamond Fuji at sunrise on New Year's Day 2020" (初日の出ダイヤモンド富士　令和二年元日), was uploaded by "Hideto Sugiyama" (杉山日出都). Mt. Fuji sitting in the darkness amid flowing clouds… The morning sun gradually rising from its peak... This phenomenon is called "Diamond Fuji." The video shows this spectacular view that can be seen only a few times each year. At Lake Yamanaka, you can observe Diamond Fuji at sunset from mid-October to the end of February each year, spanning approximately 4.5 months. Diamond Fuji seen with the first sunrise on New Year's Day, which can be observed at locations like Mt. Ryugadake at Lake Motosu, is considered particularly auspicious and very popular among tourists, as well as Mt. Fuji fans across Japan. Be sure to check out the beautiful video before reading along! Why is Seeing Diamond Fuji Considered Auspicious? Photo：Diamond Fuji from Lake Yamanaka Diamond Fuji is a natural phenomenon that can be seen when the sun rises or sets over the summit of Mt. Fuji. The mountain has a long and sacred history and is considered an auspicious mountain due to its wide shape which is said to represent prosperity. Diamond Fuji can only be seen when various conditions are met, which is said to make it even more auspicious. For example, Aka Fuji (Red Fuji) is believed to bring good fortune, protect against bad luck, bring prosperity in business, and fulfill wishes. On the other hand, Diamond Fuji is said to bring prosperity when used as the lock screen on one's smartphone. If you find yourself needing a bit of luck, maybe consider viewing the beautiful Diamond Fuji at Lake Yamanaka or Red Fuji. When and Where Can You See Diamond Fuji at Lake Yamanaka? Photo：Sunrise and a sea of clouds at Mt. Fuji Diamond Fuji at Lake Yamanaka is known as a miraculous view that can be seen over an extended period once a year. There are various conditions that must be met in order to see it, but the main ones are as follows: ・Observation Period: Mid-October to the end of February (approximately 4.5 months) ・Observation Time: Around 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM (varies by season and location) ・The weather must be stable and clear ・On calm days with no wind, you may also see "Double Diamond Fuji" reflected on the lake surface The best time is from mid-October to the end of February, with February being particularly recommended for its stable weather. In 2025, the "Lake Yamanaka Diamond Fuji Weeks" will be held from February 1 (Sat) to February 22 (Sat), with the Ice Candle Festival taking place at Kirara, Lake Yamanaka Communication Plaza, on February 23 (Sun). Lake Yamanaka is characterized by Diamond Fuji visible at sunset. This rare and unique sight can only be seen a few times a year. If you'd like to see it in person, be sure to keep the above conditions, timing, and season in mind before you go. In this video, you can watch footage of Diamond Fuji from Lake Yamanaka starting at 0:00. Where Else Can You See Diamond Fuji Besides Lake Yamanaka? Photo：Mt. Fuji reflected on Lake Tanuki Here are some recommended locations at Lake Yamanaka and surrounding areas for those looking to see and take photos of Diamond Fuji. ・Hirano Lakeside (平野湖畔, Hirano Kohan) - Lake Yamanaka Lake Yamanaka is famous for its "Sakasa Fuji" (upside-down Fuji), and Hirano Lakeside is one of the most popular spots to photograph this. During the viewing season, photographers come here in droves to photograph it. When there's no wind and surface of the lake is calm, you can see Diamond Fuji both on land and reflected on the surface of the lake. This phenomenon is referred to as "Double Diamond Fuji." Observation period: around October 27 to February 16. ・Panorama Dai (パノラマ台) - Lake Yamanaka A highly popular Mt. Fuji photography spot with views of Lake Yamanaka below and even the Southern Alps visible on clear days. Diamond Fuji season at Lake Yamanaka begins at Panorama Dai in mid-October and ends here in late February. Observation period: around October 16 to February 25, time: around 4:22 PM to 4:50 PM. ・Asahigaoka Lakeside Green Space Park (旭日丘湖畔緑地公園) - Lake Yamanaka This is the first location before the winter solstice and the last after it where you can see Diamond Fuji over the lake. Near the park is "Sunset Beach" (夕焼けの渚), one of the 100 Best Beaches in Japan. Observation period: around October 18 to February 22. ・Hana no Miyako Park - Lake Yamanaka Hana no Miyako Park is one of the most popular spots on Lake Yamanaka. You can see Diamond Fuji here for an extended period from late November to mid-January. In summer, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of sunflowers and Mt. Fuji. ・Lake Tanuki (田貫湖, Tanukiko) Lake Tanuki, located in Fujinomiya, Shizuoka, offers a good chance to see sunrise Diamond Fuji around April 20th and August 20th in 2025. If the weather is favorable, you can see the "Double Diamond Fuji" at this spectacular viewpoint. In April 2024, the "Tanukiko Fugaku Terrace" was established, winning the 2024 Wood Design Award. ・Mt. Ryugadake (竜ヶ岳, Ryugadake) This spot is located on the South side of Lake Motosu. It's located on the east side of Mt. Fuji and you can see sunrise Diamond Fuji here. The low elevation and wide, flat summit make it an ideal place for photography and observation. On New Year's Day, you can witness the extremely auspicious sight of Diamond Fuji with the first sunrise of the year. ・Mt. Minobu (身延山, Minobu-san) Mt. Minobu, selected as one of the Top 100 Mountains of Yamanashi, is a spot where you can view Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay to the Southeast. Visitors can also take the cable car, which begins running early in the morning, to the top of the mountain. In 2025, Diamond Fuji viewing parties will be held on March 12 (Wed), 13 (Thu), and 14 (Fri), with the ropeway operating early from 5:30 AM. Since many people visit during the Diamond Fuji viewing season, the car park may be full. It's recommended to go with a group or as a family to the summit. Parking on the street is prohibited, so be sure to abide by the regulations to avoid inconveniencing the local residents, other photographers, or tourists. Summary: Enjoy the First Sunrise and Diamond Fuji at Lake Yamanaka Diamond Fuji at Lake Yamanaka can be seen at sunset. The sight of the sun setting over the summit of Mt. Fuji is a spectacular view with the glowing red sun, divine and perfect for Instagram. Fuji's majestic appearance, intertwined with nature, is surely a sight that only those who see it in person can truly appreciate. For those wishing to see Diamond Fuji with the first sunrise on New Year's Day, Mt. Ryugadake at Lake Motosu is recommended. You can capture the first sunrise of the year rising from the summit of Mt. Fuji, and witnessing Diamond Fuji on New Year's morning will surely make for a wonderful year ahead. Depending on where you view Mt. Fuji from, you might even be able to enjoy a view of the rare Double Diamond Fuji. Come to Yamanashi and enjoy these breathtaking views of nature! 【TripAdvisor】Mt. Fuji

Meiji Jingu Shrine in Harajuku, Tokyo Meiji Jingu Shrine, located in Harajuku, Tokyo, is surrounded by a surprisingly deep forest you’d never expect to find in the middle of Tokyo. It attracts countless visitors from Japan and abroad throughout the year.This article introduces the route featured in the 4K video、from Harajuku Station to the approach path and finally to the main hall,highlighting key sights, useful tips, and interesting background information to help first-time visitors enjoy their experience. What Is Meiji Jingu Shrine? Meiji Jingu enshrines Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken and celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2020.The forest that fills the shrine grounds is known as one of the largest man-made forests in the world. Around 100,000 trees were donated from across Japan, and forestry experts carefully planned the planting so the woods would grow into a natural forest after 100 years. Today, that vision has taken root: a lush ecosystem that feels worlds away from downtown Tokyo. Photo: Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shibuya, Tokyo Its stillness and pure atmosphere soothe the hearts of visitors. In overseas videos, it is sometimes introduced as “Tokyo’s spiritual sanctuary.” Walking Access from Harajuku Station to Meiji Jingu When you exit Harajuku Station from the Omotesando Gate, the first torii gate of Meiji Jingu appears immediately in front of you. 【Video】3:20〜It usually takes 10–12 minutes to walk to the main hall. The path is flat and easy to follow. Photo: JR Harajuku Station, Tokyo Harajuku Station was renovated in 2020 to better handle the huge crowds during the busy New Year shrine-visiting period. The busiest days are January 1–3, when the station takes on a special holiday atmosphere unlike any other time of year. The Sacred Approach Beginning at the First Torii Gate As you pass through the first torii at the Harajuku entrance, the noise of the city falls away, and the air itself seems to change、leaving only the soft crunch of gravel underfoot in a peaceful world.Continuing along the path, you will encounter the massive second torii. Standing about 12 meters tall, it is the largest wooden Myojin-style torii in Japan, and its impressive scale naturally makes visitors look up. 【Video】4:23〜 Photo: First torii gate of Meiji Jingu Along the approach, you will find barrels of sak a well as wine barrels donated by wine cultivators from Burgundy, France, in honor of the Meiji Emperor's fondness for wine. This spot symbolizes cultural exchange between Japan and France, and often surprises international visitors who wonder why wine barrels are displayed here. From a side path, you can also visit the well-known spiritual site Kiyomasa-no-Ido Spring, where the scenery changes beautifully with the seasons. From the Second Torii to the Temizuya: A Gentle Walk Filled with Light Near the second torii, sunlight and shadows weave together to create a picturesque scene. Some torii have been rebuilt using naturally fallen cypress trees, reflecting the shrine’s harmony with nature. 【Video】13:58〜 Photo: Temizuya of Meiji Jingu A short walk further brings you to the temizuya (purification pavilion). Meiji Jingu uses groundwater, allowing fresh, clean water to flow continuously. 【Video】17:30〜The purification ritual involves holding the ladle with your right hand and cleansing in the following order: ① left hand, ② right hand, ③ rinse your mouth with water poured into your left hand, ④ left hand again, and ⑤ rinse the ladle’s handle. English instructions are provided, so visitors can follow the steps with confidence. From the Third Torii to the Main Hall: Entering a Majestic Space As you continue along the approach, the view opens up, revealing the third torii and the main hall. 【Video】18:01〜 Photo: Main hall of Meiji Jingu The shrine buildings, including the main hall, were originally completed in 1920, but were destroyed in air raids in 1945. Reconstruction was made possible through donations from across Japan and overseas, and the current wooden structures were completed in 1958. The beautifully crafted eaves and copper roofs are impressive, often leaving first-time visitors speechless.The standard method of worship is “two bows, two claps, one bow.” Take a moment in the quiet space before the main hall to center yourself before praying. 【Video】18:46〜 The Appeal of Goshuin, Omikokoro, and Charms Meiji Jingu’s goshuin, known for its strong calligraphy style, can be received at the Choden (in front of the Kaguraden) near the main hall. Some waiting time may occur during busy periods. Photo: Offering hall at Meiji Jingu The shrine’s unique omikuji, called “Omikokoro,” does not assign good or bad fortunes.Instead, it features waka poems by Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken that offer thoughtful guidance. The positive and reflective messages make them especially popular among international visitors. 【Video】21:59〜 Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu: Souvenirs and Café After your visit, take a relaxing break at Forest Terrace. Its café, Mori no Terrace, has even received a Wood City Tokyo Award for its harmonious architectural design.You can enjoy warm drinks while looking out over the greenery, and the gift shop offers wooden goods and charms unique to Meiji Jingu—items that are especially popular among international travelers. 【Video】9:18〜 Hatsumode Information Meiji Jingu records the highest number of Hatsumode visitors in Japan, attracting around three million people every year. Photo: Hatsumode at Meiji Jingu When the gates open at midnight on New Year’s Day, loud cheers fill the air. This moment has become a popular attraction for international visitors, often referred to as the “Tokyo New Year Experience.”The peak hours are as follows, but visiting in the early morning allows for a smoother experience.・January 1, 0:00–3:00・Midday on January 1・Afternoons during the first three days of the year Tips for Visiting Meiji Jingu ・Soft morning light is ideal for photography.・Wear comfortable walking shoes for the long approach.・Some areas of the main hall are off-limits for photography; please check the signs.・While English guidance has increased, some areas remain Japanese-only, so using the video as a reference is recommended. Meiji Jingu Q&A: Helpful Information Before Your Visit Q1: How long does it take to walk from Harajuku Station to Meiji Jingu?A: Typically 10–12 minutes.It takes about 1–2 minutes to reach the first torii gate from the Omotesando Gate and another 8–10 minutes along the approach to the main hall. During Hatsumode, the walk may take 30 minutes to over an hour. Q2: What are the opening and closing times for Meiji Jingu?A: Times vary by season.Generally, the shrine opens around 6:40 from January to March, in the 5:00 hour from April to September, and closes between 16:20 and 18:30. Please check the official website’s “Opening and Closing Times” page for the latest information. Q3: How crowded is Hatsumode?A: Meiji Jingu experiences the largest New Year crowd in Japan.The peak times are 0:00–3:00 on January 1 and midday on January 1. Around three million visitors come during the first three days of the year. Q4: Where can I receive a goshuin?A: At the Choden (in front of the Kaguraden) near the main hall.There may be waiting times during busy hours. Q5: Can international visitors pray at the shrine?A: Yes, everyone is welcome to visit and pray.Numerous English signs make it easy even for first-time visitors. Q6: How do I get to Kiyomasa-no-Ido Spring?A: It is about a 10-minute walk from the Garden (Gyoen) entrance.Although slightly away from the main hall, it is a very popular spiritual spot. Photo: Visitors praying at Meiji Jingu Summary With easy access from Harajuku Station, Meiji Jingu offers a beautiful forested approach and historic architecture.Following the video as you walk makes it easy for first-time visitors to reach the main hall while deepening their appreciation of Tokyo’s cultural heritage.Whether for Hatsumode, collecting goshuin, or enjoying a peaceful stroll, Meiji Jingu is a sacred place worth experiencing throughout the year. 【Official Website】https://www.meijijingu.or.jp/en .caption-heading-2 { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; margin-bottom: 15px; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 40px; } .caption-information-table { background-color: #efefef; margin-top: -20px; margin-bottom: 50px; padding: 20px; border-radius: 8px; width: 90%; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-information-table.blue { background-color: #fffaef; } .caption-information-table .title { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; } @media screen and (max-width: 1024px) { .caption-information-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 30px 15px; } } .caption-heading-table .caption-text li { line-height: 2.5rem; margin-top: 1.3rem; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading { position: relative; border-left: 5px solid #ff1300; padding-left: 10px; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 50px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 1px 15px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-heading-table ul{ counter-reset: listnum; /* カウンターをリセット */ list-style: none; /* 標準のスタイルは消す */ font-size: 1.5rem !important; margin-bottom: 15px; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li{ margin-left: 1.1em; text-indent: -1.1em; font-weight: bold; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li::before{ counter-increment: listnum; /* counter-resetと同じ文字列 */ content: counter(listnum); /* カウントした数に応じて番号を表示 */ content: counter(listnum) ". 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Walking along an approach path in a quiet forest where only birdsong echoes, you draw closer step by step to a historic shrine building. Journeys that visit these shrines and temples in so-called “hidden regions” are now attracting many people. In this article, based on the YouTube video 【日本の神社仏閣旅】, we introduce the shrines and temples that appear in the video from a traveler’s point of view, highlighting key information and must-see spots. We also explain the appeal of goshuin (special calligraphy stamps given at shrines and temples), basic etiquette for visiting, and tips for access, so even beginners to goshuin trips will find it helpful. An overview of 18 hidden shrines and temples: features, history, and blessings Below, you will find detailed information on all 18 shrines and temples featured in the video, including their characteristics, history, origins, and the blessings they are known for. Haruna Shrine (Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture) Haruna Shrine (榛名神社, Haruna Jinja), which stands quietly on the slopes of Mount Haruna, is a place where you can deeply feel both history and nature. It is said to have been founded in the era of Emperor Yōmei, and has long been revered as a sacred site of mountain worship. Photo: Haruna Shrine, Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture The long approach path is wrapped in deep forest, with a stream murmuring beside moss-covered boulders. This mystical route makes the everyday world feel more distant with every step, and gradually brings a sense of inner calm. Along the way, highlights include the towering “Yatate-sugi” cedar and the “Sōryūmon” gate, whose form is said to resemble dragons rising to the heavens. Above all, the rock cliff that rises as if to protect the main hall is overwhelming, and has long been revered as a “rock inhabited by the gods.” The goshuin at Haruna Shrine are striking for their powerful brush strokes, and when limited editions are available, worshippers line up to receive them. After your visit, you can enjoy the local specialty konnyaku dishes in the shrine town at the base of the approach, or combine your trip with sightseeing at nearby Lake Haruna. With its well-balanced appeal as a place of nature, history, and spiritual energy, it is truly a “sacred area you will want to visit again and again.” Address: 849 Harunasan-machi, Takasaki City, Gunma PrefectureGate opening hours: 7:00–18:00 (until 17:00 in winter)Shrine office: 9:00–16:00Access: About 70 minutes by bus from JR Takasaki Station 【Official Website】https://www.haruna.or.jp ※You can watch this part from (0:21) in the video. Akagi Shrine (Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture) Akagi Shrine stands on the quiet lakeside of Mount Akagi. Its bright vermilion shrine buildings and the clear, refreshing air leave a strong impression, and as soon as you arrive you feel that you have “entered a sacred realm.” Many legends remain here, including the story of Princess Akagi, and from long ago the shrine has been cherished as a place where women’s wishes are granted. The torii gate reflected in the surface of the lake takes on a different atmosphere with each season. In particular, when the morning sun shines in, the scene becomes almost dreamlike, wrapping visitors in a silence that feels like stepping into a painting. Photo: Lake Onuma on Mt. Akagi and the approach bridge to Akagi Shrine, Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture A fresh breeze created by the nature of Mount Akagi flows through the grounds, and simply strolling around will make you feel lighter. There are also walking paths and cafés along the lakeshore, so spending a leisurely time there after your visit is part of the appeal. Goshuin featuring motifs of Mount Akagi and dragons are especially popular, and seasonal limited designs attract many worshippers. With its blend of grand nature and mythological stories, Akagi Shrine offers new discoveries in any season. Address: 4-2 Akagisan, Fujimi-machi, Maebashi City, Gunma PrefectureVisiting hours: Grounds open at all timesAccess: About 60 minutes by bus from Maebashi Station※You can watch this part from (1:22) in the video. Furumine Shrine (Kanuma City, Tochigi Prefecture) Furumine Shrine, embraced by the vast nature of Furumine-ga-hara, is known as a sacred site of tengu (long-nosed goblin) worship, a unique element of Japanese folk belief. As soon as you step into the grounds, the large tengu masks and carvings that catch your eye give the place a distinctive character, combining solemnity with a surprisingly approachable atmosphere. The shrine has an ancient history and has long been revered as a guardian deity for protection from fire and safety within the home. Photo: Furumine Shrine , Kanuma City, Tochigi Prefecture One feature that cannot be overlooked when speaking of this shrine is the expansive garden, “Furumine-en.” It is decorated with seasonal flowers and trees, and the scenery reflected in the pond is breathtakingly beautiful. Enjoying a bowl of matcha in the garden teahouse gently soothes the fatigue of travel. Furumine Shrine is also famous for having one of the richest varieties of goshuin in Japan. The stamps depicting tengu are all very distinctive, and many people visit specifically to receive them. For those who wish to offer quiet prayers in the middle of great nature, this is an ideal place. Address: 3027 Kusaku, Kanuma City, Tochigi PrefectureShrine office hours: 9:00–16:00Access: About 35 minutes by car from JR Kanuma Station 【Official Website】http://www.furumine-jinjya.jp/ ※You can watch this part from (2:23) in the video. Karasawayama Shrine (Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture) Karasawayama Shrine stands on a mountaintop 247 meters above sea level and is known for its superb view overlooking Sano City. It enshrines Fujiwara no Hidesato, a warrior from the Heian period, and many worshippers visit to pray for success in competition and good fortune in work. Because the shrine is located within the ruins of Karasawa Castle, which was built on the mountain, visitors can also enjoy walking among old stone walls and castle remains. While strolling through the grounds, you may encounter friendly cats that suddenly appear and charm visitors. It has become so popular on social media that it is sometimes called a “cat sanctuary,” and the sight of cats gracefully walking along the stone walls is a scene unique to this shrine. The goshuin feature dignified and weighty brush strokes, and often include a stamp for victory, making them a striking addition to any goshuin book. Address: 1409 Fuji-cho, Sano City, Tochigi PrefectureVisiting hours: Grounds open at all timesAccess: About 15 minutes by car from Sano Station 【Official Website】http://karasawayama.com ※You can watch this part from (3:55) in the video. Torinoko Sanjo Shrine (Nasukagawa Town, Nasu District, Tochigi Prefecture) Torinoko Sanjo Shrine, which sits on the border between Ibaraki and Tochigi prefectures, is famous nationwide as a spiritual power spot for increasing financial fortune. As you enter the grounds, the first thing you notice is the enormous golden owl statue. Its presence is far more powerful than photos can convey, and many visitors instinctively stop to take pictures. In Japanese, owl (fukurō) is associated with wordplay such as “no hardship” (不苦労) and “good fortune comes” (福来朗), so owls are considered symbols of good luck and are placed throughout the grounds. Photo: Torinoko Sanjo Shrine, Nasu District, Tochigi Prefecture Because the shrine stands at a high elevation, the air is clear, and walking through the refreshing grounds gives you the sense that your heart is quietly blending into the stillness of nature. Goshuin with cute owl stamps are especially popular and are highly valued by those who wish to improve their luck. Address: 1948 Yamata, Nakagawa-machi, Nasu District, Tochigi PrefectureHours: Shrine office 9:00–16:00 (subject to change depending on the season)Access: Visiting by car is the most convenient option 【Official Website】https://www.torinokosan.com ※You can watch this part from (5:17) in the video. Saimeiji Temple (Mashiko Town, Haga District, Tochigi Prefecture) Founded in the Heian period, Saimeiji is a tranquil, historic temple nestled in a deep mountain village, and it is famous for its elegant three-storied pagoda, which is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The delicate carvings and perfectly balanced silhouette are graceful. In the autumn foliage season, the red of the pagoda and the crimson leaves overlap beautifully, creating a breathtaking scene. Photo: Saimeiji Temple, Mashiko Town, Haga District, Tochigi Prefecture Within the grounds, moss-covered stone steps and old temple buildings are scattered about, and walking slowly allows you to feel the depth of history with your whole body. The temple’s “Meishō” bell is known for its clear, resonant tone and is loved as a famous bell. The goshuin are characterized by neat and elegant calligraphy, and at times limited stamps featuring seasonal scenery are also available. Address: 4469 Mashiko, Mashiko Town, Haga District, Tochigi PrefectureVisiting hours: 9:00–16:00Access: About 15 minutes by car from Mashiko Station 【Official Website】http://www.fumon.jp ※You can watch this part from (6:18) in the video. Kumano Kotai Shrine (Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture / Usui Pass) This unusual shrine straddles the border between Nagano and Gunma prefectures, and the center line of the main hall itself marks the prefectural border. Photo: The prefectural border at Kumano Kotai Shrine, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture It has long been venerated as a guardian of the mountain pass, where travelers would pray for safety on their journeys. In the grounds stands a giant “Shinano tree,” said to be more than a thousand years old, and looking up at its thick trunk, you cannot help but feel the strength and sacredness of nature. Visitors come to see not only the “Pop-up Shinano Tree Goshuin,” featured in the video, but also the “Prefectural Border Goshuin.” You can receive goshuin from both the Nagano side and the Gunma side shrine offices, and many worshippers enjoy placing the two side by side as a special keepsake that can only be obtained here. Many people also stop by as part of a trip to Karuizawa, and the refreshing highland air enhances the feeling of being on a journey. Address: 1 Toge-machi, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano PrefectureShrine office hours: 9:00–16:00 (grounds open at all times)Access: About 15 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station 【Official Website】https://kumanokoutai.com/ ※You can watch this part from (7:19) in the video. Kumano Shrine (Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture) Kumano Shrine, which stands quietly in a mountain valley, is a restful place wrapped in a calm atmosphere and the soothing presence of nature. Because it is close to an old mountain pass, it was once used as a place where travelers prayed for a safe journey, and a simple, warm ambience still remains today. If you listen carefully to the gentle rustling of the trees along the approach path, you will feel your heart becoming strangely peaceful. Photo: Kumano Shrine, Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture The goshuin are simple yet refined in style, evoking the presence of a quiet mountain deity. Many people enjoy a “double Kumano visit,” making a pilgrimage to both this shrine and the nearby Kumano Kotai Shrine, and by touring the area you can also sense the history of the old mountain routes. Address: 1 Toge, Matsuida-machi, Annaka City, Gunma PrefectureVisiting hours: Grounds open at all timesAccess: About 15 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station (please note that it is not possible to reach the shrine directly by car from the Gunma side; walking or buses are required, so be sure to check official information for details.)※You can watch this part from (8:41) in the video. Tsubaki Grand Shrine (Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture) Tsubaki Grand Shrine, known as the main shrine of Sarutahiko Ōkami, Japan’s oldest “guiding deity,” is one of the leading spiritual power spots in Mie Prefecture. A dignified atmosphere fills the grounds, and the quietness of the surrounding forest feels like a gentle embrace. Sarutahiko Ōkami is famous as a “god who opens the way,” and many worshippers visit to pray for luck in work and support at turning points in life. Photo: Tsubaki Grand Shrine, Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture Behind the main hall is the “Betsugū Tsubaki Kishi Shrine,” said to be filled with strong spiritual energy and popular as a place where women’s wishes are granted. After your visit, you can also enjoy the local specialty “Tsubaki Torimeshi” at the Tsubaki Kaikan within the grounds. The goshuin feature crisp and dignified calligraphy, and many people collect the monthly limited designs, which are especially attractive. Address: 1871 Yamamoto-cho, Suzuka City, Mie PrefectureShrine office: 8:00–17:00Access: About 45 minutes by bus from Yokkaichi Station 【Official Website】https://tsubaki.or.jp ※You can watch this part from (9:42) in the video. Hakone Shrine (Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture) Hakone Shrine, famous for its vermilion torii gate standing in Lake Ashi, is one of the most renowned shrines in the Kanto region and has been deeply revered by travelers and warriors since ancient times. Founded in the Nara period, this venerable shrine is set in a grand landscape unique to Hakone, where mountains and lake overlap. Walking along the approach path in the clear air feels pleasantly refreshing on the skin and gives the sense that your heart is being cleansed. The “Torii of Peace” standing in the lake is especially beautiful in the soft morning light and at sunset, and in recent years it has drawn attention both in Japan and abroad as a “must-visit scenic spot.” Photo: Hakone Shrine, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture Within the grounds stands the sacred “Yatate-no-sugi” cedar, believed to be over a thousand years old, where travelers and warriors have long prayed for safety and victory. Right next to the shrine is the new hall of Kuzuryu Shrine, famous as a deity of matchmaking. It is said that visiting both shrines brings blessings in many areas, including financial fortune, good relationships, and the fulfillment of heartfelt wishes. With its beautiful blend of history, nature, and a sacred atmosphere, Hakone Shrine is an essential destination at the heart of any Hakone trip. Address: 80-1 Motohakone, Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa PrefectureShrine office reception: 8:15–17:00Prayer reception hours: 8:30–16:00Treasure hall visiting hours: 9:00–16:00Access: About 40 minutes by bus from Hakone-Yumoto Station 【Official Website】https://hakonejinja.or.jp ※You can watch this part from (11:19) in the video. Nakano-dake Shrine (Shimonita Town, Gunma Prefecture) Nakano-dake Shrine, located at the foot of Mount Myōgi, is known for its strikingly unusual giant statue of Daikoku-sama. Shining in gold, this statue stands more than 20 meters tall, and its overwhelming presence when viewed up close leaves a powerful impression. Daikokuten has long been beloved as a deity who brings good fortune and wealth, and this giant statue welcomes visitors as “Japan’s largest Daikoku-sama.” Photo: Nakano-dake Shrine, Shimonita Town, Gunma Prefecture The rocky cliffs of Mount Myōgi that rise behind the shrine have a unique ruggedness, allowing visitors to feel the dynamic power of nature. Walking through the grounds, you can sense a solemn atmosphere, as if the mountain deity is quietly watching over you. In the video, a paper-cut “Dragon Ceiling Painting Goshuin,” a special type of shrine stamp with a cut-out dragon design, is introduced. There is also a Goshuin featuring Daikoku, making it a memorable part of your trip. Address: 1248 Kamiosaka, Shimonita Town, Kanra District, Gunma PrefectureVisiting hours: Grounds open at all timesAccess: About 20 minutes by car from Shimonita Station 【Official Website】https://www.nakanotake.com ※You can watch this part from (12:20) in the video. Myōgi Shrine (Tomioka City, Gunma Prefecture) Myōgi Shrine stands at the base of Mount Myōgi, one of Japan’s three most famous “strange” landscapes for its rugged peaks. The shrine is renowned for its luxurious carvings and solemn buildings. Passing through the vivid vermilion main gate and climbing the steep stone steps, you come face to face with the main hall, whose gorgeous appearance showcases the pinnacle of Edo-period architecture. The richly colored carvings on the Karamon gate are stunningly beautiful, and when you look at them up close, their intricate workmanship is truly overwhelming. Photo: Myogi Shrine, Tomioka City, Gunma Prefecture Mount Myōgi itself is known as a mountain with strong spiritual energy, and many climbers and travelers come to pray for safety. The goshuin are striking for their bold, weighty brush strokes, perfectly conveying the unique dignity and solemnity of this shrine. Address: 6 Myōgi, Myōgi-machi, Tomioka City, Gunma PrefectureVisiting hours: Treasure hall and former palace building 9:00–17:00 (except from 12/20 to 1/10)Access: About 15 minutes by car from Matsuida Station 【Official Website】https://www.myougi.jp ※You can watch this part from (13:21) in the video. Hattasan Soneiji Temple (Fukuroi City, Shizuoka Prefecture) Hattasan, famous as a temple of Yakuyoke Kannon (a Kannon for warding off misfortune), is a well-known temple in Shizuoka that has attracted many worshippers since ancient times. Walking along the long approach path surrounded by trees, the sound of leaves rustling in the wind soothes the heart and allows you to head toward the main hall in a relaxed state of mind. Although the temple is known for warding off bad luck, once you visit, you find that the entire grounds are filled with a gentle atmosphere that truly feels like “a place where your spirit becomes lighter.” Photo: Hattasan Soneiji Temple, Fukuroi City, Shizuoka Prefecture After praying, it is customary to enjoy the temple’s specialty “Yakuyoke dango” rice dumplings. Their simple, gentle sweetness seems to sink slowly into your body after your pilgrimage. The goshuin bear the name of Kannon written in powerful characters, and many visitors receive them with the wish of casting off misfortune. Address: 2777 Toyosawa, Fukuroi City, Shizuoka PrefectureVisiting hours: 8:30–16:30Access: About 15 minutes by bus from Fukuroi Station 【Official Website】https://www.hattasan.or.jp ※You can watch this part from (14:22) in the video. Yusanji Temple (Fukuroi City, Shizuoka Prefecture) Yusanji, a temple wrapped in deep forest, is affectionately known as a temple of “Kannon for the eyes.” Clear spring water flows through the grounds, and the temple has long been a place of prayer for the healing of eye diseases, drawing many devotees over the centuries. The approach path through the trees is filled with a pleasant quiet, and simply walking along it surrounds you with a soothing atmosphere created by nature. Photo: Yusanji Temple, Fukuroi City, Shizuoka Prefecture The main hall is solid and dignified yet warm, and when you put your hands together in prayer, you may feel as if a gentle air is softly embracing you. Several types of goshuin are available, mainly featuring Yakushi Nyorai (the Medicine Buddha) and Kannon, making them perfect mementos of your visit. Address: 1 Muramatsu, Fukuroi City, Shizuoka PrefectureVisiting hours: 9:00–16:30 (the temple grounds can be visited freely, but please check the official website for details.)Access: About 20 minutes by car from Fukuroi Station 【Official Website】https://yusanji.jp ※You can watch this part from (15:59) in the video. Amabiki Kannon (Sakuragawa City, Ibaraki Prefecture) Amabiki Kannon, one of the thirty-three temples of the Bandō Kannon Pilgrimage, is popular as a “flower temple” where seasonal blossoms color the grounds. The hydrangeas in early summer are particularly spectacular, covering the slopes of the grounds in shades of blue and purple. Many people visit just to see this beauty with their own eyes. The sight of hydrangeas sparkling after the rain in the quiet temple grounds is a special beauty that can only be experienced here. Photo: Amabiki Kannon, Sakuragawa City, Ibaraki Prefecture You may also see peacocks freely strolling around the grounds, and first-time visitors are often surprised by their graceful presence. The temple is also famous as a place of prayers for safe childbirth and fertility, and is deeply revered by families and female worshippers. The goshuin, which change with the seasons, feature charming designs and are very popular. Address: 1 Motoki, Sakuragawa City, Ibaraki PrefectureVisiting hours: 8:30–17:00Access: About 10 minutes by car from Iwase Station 【Official Website】http://www.amabiki.or.jp ※You can watch this part from (17:00) in the video. Yamaga Shrine (Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture) Yamaga Shrine, known for its connection to the Sanada clan, is an irresistible destination for history lovers. The six-coin crest of the Sanada family appears throughout the grounds, and the atmosphere of the Sengoku (Warring States) period still quietly lingers here. In spring, cherry blossoms tint the approach path a soft pink, and the gentle scenery combined with the weight of history captivates visitors. Photo: Yamaga Shrine, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture The goshuin, which feature the Sanada family crest “Rokumonsen,” are very popular as a memento of your visit. There are many historical sites related to the Sanada clan in the area around the shrine, so combining your visit with a historical walk is highly recommended. It is a calm, quiet place where you can reflect on the spirit of Sengoku-period warriors. Address: 4473 Nagamura, Sanada-machi, Ueda City, Nagano PrefectureVisiting hours: Grounds open at all timesAccess: About 25 minutes by car from Ueda Station 【Official Website】http://www.yamaga.or.jp ※You can watch this part from (18:01) in the video. Daihōji Temple (Chiisagata District, Nagano Prefecture) Daihōji Temple, home to a National Treasure three-storied pagoda famous as the “Mikaeri no Tō” or “Pagoda that makes you look back,” is a beautiful temple that harmonizes perfectly with the surrounding satoyama countryside. The pagoda is crafted with great precision down to the smallest details, and its elegant, slender form is said to change expression depending on the angle from which you view it, which is why people find themselves turning back again and again to look at it. Photo: Three-story pagoda at Daihoji Temple, Chiisagata District, Nagano Prefecture The grounds are quiet, filled with the sound of birdsong and a gentle flow of time, making it a perfect place when you want to calm your mind. The goshuin are written in a refined script, conveying the dignity of a temple that houses a National Treasure. Address: 2052 Atogō, Aoki Village, Chiisagata District, Nagano PrefectureVisiting hours: April–October 9:00–17:00 / November–March 9:00–16:00Access: About 20 minutes by car from Ueda Station 【Official Website】https://www.daihoujitemple.com/english-1 ※You can watch this part from (19:28) in the video. Oiwa Shrine (Hitachi City, Ibaraki Prefecture) Oiwa Shrine is known as a place of such high spiritual purity that it is often called “one of Japan’s foremost power spots.” Although the exact founding date is unknown, ruins show that rituals were held here from ancient times, and Japan’s oldest gazetteer, the “Hitachi no Kuni Fudoki,” records this as a “sacred mountain where heavenly deities descended.” When you step into the grounds, the forest of giant trees instantly shuts out the signs of the everyday world, and a tranquil, mysterious air fills the space. Among the sacred trees, the one known as the “three cedars” has an overwhelming presence, and just taking a deep breath beneath it can feel like a purifying experience. Photo: Oiwa Shrine, Hitachi City, Ibaraki Prefecture Because this site has long preserved a tradition of syncretic worship of Shinto and Buddhism, both shrine and temple buildings stand together in the grounds, allowing visitors to experience a unique sense of “ancient Japanese religious belief.” Many worshippers say that “coming here somehow brings the mind into balance,” so it is especially recommended for those who want to reset their spirit or feel the power of nature. Some paths are steep mountain trails, but the inspiration and insights gained by walking them are all the greater, making this truly “a sacred area that can only be fully appreciated on foot.” Address: 752 Iri-shikama-cho, Hitachi City, Ibaraki PrefectureVisiting hours: 9:00–17:00Access: About 20 minutes by car from JR Hitachi Station 【Official Website】https://www.oiwajinja.jp ※You can watch this part from (20:29) in the video. What to know before you start a goshuin trip To fully enjoy visiting shrines and temples for goshuin, it is a good idea to first prepare a favorite goshuin book and go out in comfortable clothing that is easy to walk in. At shrines and temples, the basic etiquette is to complete your worship and then request a goshuin. Some places prefer that photos are not taken, so quietly check the posted notices as you go. Most of all, the important thing is to take your time. If you walk from one place to the next while feeling the seasonal scenery and facing each shrine or temple with a calm mind, your journey will naturally become a gentle one that brings your heart into balance. Conclusion: A shrine journey filled with prayer and discovery Hidden shrines and temples have a special “atmosphere” that you cannot experience through sightseeing alone. The moments when you put your hands together in prayer, the spaces where you resonate with nature, and the intellectual curiosity you feel when touching history—all of these are recorded as pages in your goshuin book.Why not begin your own goshuin journey and experience these quiet, moving moments for yourself?

Video introduction of the original capybara open-air bath at Izu Shaboten Zoological Park in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture. This video, titled "Capybara with mandarin orange on head in the open-air bath☆みかんを頭にのせるカピバラ 伊豆シャボテン動物公園【元祖カピバラの露天風呂】," was released by "HIRO@sea." The video shows capybaras enjoying a relaxing soak in an open-air bath. The capybaras can be found at the Izu Shaboten Zoo, in Futo, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture in Japan's Tokai Region. Just like humans, the capybara enjoy a warm bath. The water is filled with yuzu, a type of citrus fruit. You can see the capybara with a yuzu on its head at 1:46 in the video! In this article, we'll introduce the Izu Shaboten Zoo and its open-air capybara bath. What is Izu Shaboten Zoological Park? When is the original capybara open-air bath held? Photo：Izu Shaboten Zoo The Izu Shaboten Zoological Park is a theme park in Futo, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, where visitors can enjoy cacti and animals. The zoo opened in October 1959 (Showa 34), and the 200,000-square-meter park features greenhouses with cacti and succulents from around the world, as well as approximately 140 species of animals and birds, including kangaroos, capybaras, anteaters, squirrel monkeys, red pandas, chimpanzees, ponies, wild birds, the ever-popular motionless shoebill stork, flamingos, peacocks, and fennec foxes. The cacti are divided into five sections: the South American Pavilion, the African Pavilion, the Madagascar Pavilion, the Mexico Pavilion, and the Forest Cactus Pavilion. There are edible cacti available for tasting as well. In October 2016, the official name was changed from the former "Izu Shaboten Park" to "Izu Shaboten Zoological Park." A little to the east of Izu Shaboten Zoological Park, in the coastal area, you can find Izu Granpal Park, Izu Kogen Tabi no Eki Granpal Port, New York Lamp Museum & Flower Garden, and the Izu Oceanic Park Diving Center as part of the Izu Shaboten Zoological Park Group. Izu Shaboten Zoological Park also features life-size replicas of ancient American civilization sculptures, and the entire Izu Shaboten Zoological Park Group offers a wide range of attractions, from animals and plants to artifacts, park golf, the "Ship-shaped 3D Maze KAiZOKU," "Zip Line 風KAZE," "Water Balloons," and more. There's also "Wan Wan Park," a dog run where you can enjoy taking your pet dog, and the "Izu Kogen Grand Illumination," an experiential illumination event—so many facilities that you could never experience them all in a single day. Nearby, the official hotels "Petit Hotel Izu Shaboten Village" and "Glamping Izu Shaboten Village" can be found. You can fully enjoy your Izu Shaboten experience with an overnight stay at either one of these locations. What is the capybara open-air bath? When can you see the original capybara hot spring? Photo：Open-air capybara bath First, let us introduce what kind of animal the "capybara" featured in the video is. Capybaras are members of the Caviidae family of rodents, native to South America, inhabiting areas from Panama to northeastern Argentina. They are large animals, measuring 106-134 centimeters in length, and are characterized by their gentle nature and friendly disposition toward humans. They have a habit of living in groups of 10 to 20 individuals. You can see multiple capybaras soaking in the hot spring together from 0:07 in the video. The "Original Capybara Open-Air Bath" shown in the video is a historic event that began at Izu Shaboten Zoological Park in 1982, marking its 43rd anniversary in the 2025-2026 season. It started when zookeepers were cleaning the exhibit with warm water, and the capybaras gathered and put their hands and feet in the puddles, which led to the preparation of a large bath for them. Now, it has become a winter tradition of Izu. Nowadays, many zoos across Japan offer capybara hot springs, but the originator is none other than Izu Shaboten Zoological Park. At Izu Shaboten Zoological Park, the capybara mascot character "Capyba" will also welcome you. The 2025-2026 season is held from November 22, 2025 (Saturday) to April 5, 2026 (Sunday). On weekdays, it is held once a day from 13:30 to 14:30, and on weekends, holidays, winter vacation period (December 20, 2025 to January 12, 2026), and spring vacation period (March 20 to April 5), it is held twice a day from 10:30 to 11:30 and 13:30 to 14:30. On weekends and holidays, various "special baths" such as "yuzu bath," "autumn leaves (momiji) bath," "rose bath," and "apple bath" are also offered. How to access Izu Shaboten Zoological Park? What are the operating hours and admission fees? Source :【Official Website】Izu Shaboten Zoo Due to the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, when social distancing was required, the "Forest Animal Restaurant GIBBONTEI" at Izu Shaboten Zoological Park seated capybara and red panda plush toys alongside customers to ensure social distancing. The adorable sight of the plush toys sitting in the restaurant chairs became a major topic at the time and was featured extensively on TV news. These plush toys and calendars can be purchased at the gift shop within Izu Shaboten Zoological Park. Many Izu Shaboten goods are also available at the official online shop (mail order) "IZU SHABOTEN HONPO," so please take a look! Please enjoy a moment of relaxation by watching this "Original Capybara Open-Air Bath" video. ◆Izu Shaboten Zoological Park Facilities Overview◆ 【Address】1317-13 Futo, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture 【Access】From JR Atami Station, take the Ito Line to JR Ito Station, then take the Tokai Bus bound for Shaboten Park (approximately 35 minutes). From Izu Kogen Station on the Izukyu Line, take the Tokai Bus for approximately 20 minutes or a taxi for approximately 10 minutes. 【Admission Fee】Weekdays: Adults (junior high school and above) 2,700 yen, Elementary school students 1,300 yen, Children (4 years and older) 700 yen Weekends/Holidays/Peak Season: Adults (junior high school and above) 2,800 yen, Elementary school students 1,400 yen, Children (4 years and older) 700 yen Group discounts, senior discounts, disability discounts, coupon discounts, and ticket discounts available. 【Hours】9:30-17:00 (last admission 15:30) *Subject to change depending on the season 【Closures】Open year-round 【Avg. Time Spent Here】2+ Hours 【Parking】400 regular car spaces, 18 bus spaces (Regular car: 500 yen, Bus: 1,000 yen) 【Capybara Open-Air Bath Period】November 22, 2025 (Saturday) - April 5, 2026 (Sunday) 【Official Website】Izu Shaboten Zoological Park https://izushaboten.com/lang/index.html 【Tripadvisor】Izu Shaboten Zoo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298123-d1196864-Reviews-Izu_Shaboten_Zoo-Ito_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Top 10 Winter Illuminations in Tokyo: A Complete Guide for Sightseeing Winter in Tokyo is the most romantic time of year, when the entire city glows with dazzling lights. The featured video, “【4K】Tokyo Illuminations Top 10 2024–2025” , takes viewers through 10 major illumination spots in stunning 4K quality. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a Tokyo local, you will surely discover new places to add to your must-see list. This article summarizes the illumination schedules, highlights, accessibility, and photo tips featured in the video in a clear, travel-friendly format. It also answers common questions like “Where should I start?” and “Is this a good place for a date or sightseeing?”, helping you enjoy the best of Tokyo’s winter lights. Tokyo Skytree: A Towering Tree and Breathtaking Skyline Views Lighting period: 2025/11/6–12/25 (some until 2026/3/1)｜Hours: 16:00–23:00 Photo: Illumination at Tokyo Skytree Town Skytree Town features a giant 45-meter Christmas tree. The layers of light become more three-dimensional as you approach, making it photogenic from any angle. The Skytree itself is illuminated with a different themed design each day, offering a fresh experience every visit. From the observation deck, you can enjoy a unique “skyline night view,” overlooking the illuminations from above. It’s also highly accessible, located just steps from Oshiage Station. Official Website: https://www.tokyo-skytree.jp/en *This location appears around 0:08 in the video. Shibuya “Blue Cave”: Walk Through a Tunnel of Deep Blue Light Lighting period: 2025/12/4–12/25｜Hours: 17:00–22:00 Photo: Ao no Dokutsu (Blue Cave) Illumination in Shibuya, Tokyo The “Blue Cave” is Shibuya’s signature winter illumination. The entire street is filled with deep blue lights, creating a dreamlike atmosphere reminiscent of being underwater. The shimmering reflections on the tree-lined path create a long, breathtaking tunnel. The straight-line composition when viewed from the center makes it a perfect spot for photos, even on a smartphone. It’s especially popular among couples and young visitors, with easy access from Shibuya Station. Official Website: https://shibuya-aonodokutsu.jp *This location appears around 3:09 in the video. Harajuku & Omotesando: Classic Champagne-Gold Illuminations Lighting period: 2025/12/1–12/28｜Hours: Sunset–22:00 Photo: Christmas Illuminations in Harajuku and Omotesando, Tokyo The champagne-gold lights adorning the zelkova trees along Omotesando have become a symbol of Tokyo winters. Reflections from the brand storefronts combine with the illuminations, bathing the entire street in warm, elegant light. From the pedestrian bridge, the illuminated avenue looks like a golden river, making it a favorite spot among tourists. It’s easy to combine with shopping or a walk, making it an ideal part of any Tokyo itinerary. *This location appears around 4:36 in the video. Ebisu Garden Place: A Refined Setting with One of the World’s Largest Baccarat Chandeliers Lighting period: 2025/11/8–2026/3/1｜Hours: 16:00–23:00 Photo: Illumination at Yebisu Garden Place in Tokyo Ebisu Garden Place is a beloved destination for winter dates. Ebisu Garden Place is famous for its Baccarat chandelier, one of the largest in the world、which is master-crafted and has an iconic delicate sparkle. A single ruby-colored crystal placed at the center is said to bring good luck, subtly drawing attention from visitors. With its European-inspired atmosphere, the area offers photogenic scenes at every turn. Official Website: https://event.gardenplace.jp/special/2025christmas *This location appears around 6:18 in the video. Tokyo Midtown Roppongi: Immersive Light-and-Sound Displays Held annually from mid-November to around December 25 (2025: 11/13–12/25)　5:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Light show approx. 3 minutes) Photo: Illumination at Tokyo Midtown The Starlight Garden on the lawn features synchronized light-and-sound shows that ripple like waves, creating an immersive, cosmic-like experience. The illuminated path along the sidewalk is soothing to walk through, and video footage captured here often looks as if you’re being pulled into the light. With strong artistic appeal, this spot is ideal for both dates and sightseeing. Official Website: https://en.tokyo-midtown.com *This location appears around 8:20 in the video. Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka: A Stunning Collaboration with Tokyo Tower Lighting period: 2025/11/4–12/25｜Hours: 17:00–23:00 Photo: Illumination on Keyakizaka Street at Roppongi Hills, Tokyo Keyakizaka Street in Roppongi Hills transforms into a 400-meter slope illuminated in blue and champagne gold. The most popular view is from the middle of the slope, where Tokyo Tower aligns perfectly with the lights—a classic photo spot that draws crowds every year. Its stylish, urban atmosphere makes even a simple walk feel cinematic. Official Website: https://www.roppongihills.com/sp/christmashills/102 *This location appears around 10:48 in the video. Marunouchi Illuminations: A Sophisticated Night Walk Through the Business District Lighting period: 2025/11/13–2026/2/15｜Hours: 16:00–23:00 (until 24:00 in December) Photo: Illumination in Marunouchi, Tokyo Marunouchi’s illuminations offer a calm, refined atmosphere. The trees along the street are festooned with Champagne-gold LEDs that are a perfect match for Marunouch's clean, straight-lined avenues. You can also enjoy the lights and displays at nearby buildings like Marunouchi Building and KITTE, making this area popular for evening strolls. Located within walking distance of both Yurakucho and Tokyo Stations, it fits easily into sightseeing plans. In addition, during "Marunouchi Street Park 2025 Winter", a large-scale Christmas market will be held along Marunouchi Naka-dori Street in Tokyo from Thursday, November 13 to Thursday, December 25, 2025, allowing visitors to enjoy the event together with the beautiful illuminations. Official Website: https://www.marunouchi.com/en/pickup/event/7982 *This location appears around 12:16 in the video. Tokyo Midtown Hibiya: Artistic Illuminations in the Theater District Lighting period: 2025/11/13–2026/2/28｜Hours: 16:00–23:00 Photo: Illumination at Tokyo Midtown Hibiya Hibiya’s illuminations stand out for their artistic, cinema-inspired design. The colors and motion of the lights are carefully choreographed, reflecting the district’s theatrical character. The light lines around the fountain plaza appear to sway with the wind and foot traffic, creating a unique blend of natural and urban elements. Combine the visit with a walk to the Imperial Palace Outer Gardens for a route filled with both serenity and illumination. Official Website: https://www.hibiya.tokyo-midtown.com/xmas/en *This location appears around 14:36 in the video. Odaiba: One of Tokyo’s Premier Night Views with Sea, Lights, and Cityscape Lighting period: 2025/11/21〜2025/12/25 Photo: Christmas Illuminations in Odaiba, Minato City, Tokyo Odaiba offers a distinctive nightscape where seaside views meet winter illuminations. The “YAKEI Illumination” at DECKS Tokyo Beach features lights that sway in the sea breeze, perfectly complementing Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower. In December, fireworks events enhance the experience, creating the ultimate winter trio: illuminations, night views, and fireworks. Shopping, restaurants, and the Ferris wheel provide plenty of ways to enjoy the area. Official Website: https://www.tokyo-odaiba.net/illumination2025 *This location appears around 15:46 in the video. Tokyo Dome City & LaQua: Illumination, Attractions, and Hot Springs in One Place Lighting period: 2025/11/17–2026/3/1｜Hours: 17:00–24:00 Photo: Illuminations at Tokyo Dome City & LaQua Tokyo Dome City offers the rare experience of enjoying illuminations while exploring attractions. Each area has a different theme, offering fresh views with every step. Viewing the lights from the rides is something you can only experience here, making it especially popular among families. Combine it with the LaQua hot spring facility for the perfect winter course: lights → fun → relaxation. Official Website: https://www.tokyo-dome.co.jp/en/illumination *This location appears around 17:35 in the video. Tips for Enjoying Winter Illuminations in Tokyo ・Weekdays right after the lights turn on or after 9 PM are usually less crowded ・Use night mode and stabilize your phone to reduce blur ・Dress warmly (gloves and heat packs recommended) ・For dates: Ebisu → Roppongi → Tokyo Tower ・For sightseeing: Skytree → Marunouchi → Odaiba Summary: Enjoy a Tokyo Winter Wrapped in Light All 10 spots introduced here are essential winter illumination experiences in Tokyo. Watching the video before your visit helps you appreciate the scale and atmosphere even more when walking through the city. 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Introduction of sightseeing video of "Jigokudani Yaen-koen" in Shimotakai-gun, Nagano Prefecture This video, titled "SNOW MONKEY JAPAN｜Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park｜Monkeys in Hot Springs," introduces the tourist spot in Nagano prefecture (長野県, Nagano ken) in Koushinetsu region (甲信越地方, Koushinetsu chihou ) of Japan. The monkeys at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park bathe in the hot springs to fend off the cold in the winter. Enjoy watching the lovely monkeys chilling out in the cold winter weather! What is Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park? Source :YouTube screenshot Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is a popular destination for both domestic and foreign travelers. It's called "Snow Monkey Mountain" in English. The park can be enjoyed in every season, and in the fall, the leaves change to beautiful shades of red and yellow, creating a completely different atmosphere than that of the snowscapes of winter. The video shows how to get to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park by taking the Nagano Electric Railway's Snow Monkey Limited Express (長野電鉄特急スノーモンキー, Nagano Dentetsu Tokkyu Snow Monkey) connecting Nagano station and Yudanaka station, at 0:27 in the video. It takes about 15 minutes to get to the Kanbayashi hot spring (上林温泉, Kanbayashi Onsen) parking area by bus, and about 30 minutes to get to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park by foot. We recommend stopping at Yokoyugawa Valley (横湯川渓谷, Yokoyugawa Keikoku) on the way. You need to buy a ticket to enter when you arrive at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. This is shown at 3:36 in the video. Source :YouTube screenshot At Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, you can enjoy watching a bunch of monkeys playing around. When they get cold, they hop in the hot springs for a bit to warm up. Unfortunately, if it's hot out, the monkeys won't be getting in the hot springs too frequently. That being said, we recommend visiting on colder days so you can see the adorable sight of them bathing. There are live cameras you can check out before visiting to see what the weather is like as well. Monkeys Bathing at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Photo：Snow monkey You can watch monkeys taking a bath in the video at 4:38. A troop of monkeys bathe in the springs, surrounded by white snow. The monkeys enjoy their bath time much like people, and you can even see a mother and her child taking a bath together at 5:06. One monkey can be seen relaxing with its eyes closed at 6:30 in the video. Although there are many tourists around, the monkeys pay no mind and go on enjoying themselves. Sightseeing Around Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park The bus tour, which goes around Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, is great for people who enjoy lively sightseeing trips. We also recommend stopping by Jigokudani Hot Spring Inn (地獄谷温泉後楽館, Jigokudani Onsen Korakukan) and Jigokudani Fountain (地獄谷噴泉, Jigokudani Funsen) as well. Shiga Plateau (志賀高原, Shiga Kougen) is another popular tourist spot in Nagano prefecture. There are cafés where you can eat lunch, cool hotels, and an art museum that you can enjoy here. Summary of Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Photo：Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Entrance Unfortunately the only way to get to Jidokudani Snow Monkey Park is to walk the promenade from the parking area to the park itself. It takes about 30 minutes, so we highly recommend wearing comfortable clothing. There are some rules that you need to follow as not to scare the monkeys, so be sure to check those out as well. There are many places to stay near Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, so if you're planning on staying over night you'll have no trouble finding a place to stay. Are you ready to see some cute monkeys in person? ◆Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park◆ 【Address】6845 Yamanouchi-machi Shimotakai-gun Nagano Japan 381-0401 【Access】~30 minutes by car from the Shinshu-Nakano Interchange, or ~15 minutes by bus or taxi from Yudanaka Station on the Nagano Electric Railway limited express line. ~30 minutes on foot from the Kanbayashi hot spring parking area 【Hours】Summer 8:30-17:00 Winter 9:00-16:00 【Admission fee】Adults 800 JPY, children 400 JPY (Coupons available) 【Closures】No regular holidays 【Telephone】0269-33-4379 【Stay time】2 hours 【Official Website】Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park http://en.jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1117904-d324924-Reviews-Jigokudani_Snow_Monkey_Park

Ginkgo Trees and Autumn Foliage at Hikarigaoka Park: Video Introduction This video, titled "Autumn Foliage in Tokyo, 2014" (東京の紅葉 Autumn Foliage in Tokyo 2014), was uploaded by "AQUA Geo Graphic." It introduces the mystical scenery of autumn in Japan accompanied by the sun and the wind, with lovely piano music. When Is the Best Time to See Hikarigaoka Park's Ginkgo Trees? What Makes the "Yellow Tunnel" So Special? Photo：A row of ginkgo trees Hikarigaoka Park, located in Tokyo's Nerima Ward, is the fourth largest park in the 23 wards of Tokyo, covering approximately 600,000 square meters. The park is home to about 2,000 ginkgo and zelkova trees, creating stunning autumn foliage displays. The highlight is the approximately 200-meter-long ginkgo tree-lined avenue featuring 40 magnificent trees, each over 130 years old with trunk circumferences of around 2 meters. These historic ginkgo trees were transplanted in 1985 from in front of the former Tokyo Metropolitan Government building in Yurakucho, and have become a beloved symbol of Hikarigaoka Park for local residents. The best time to view the ginkgo trees at Hikarigaoka Park is typically from early to mid-November. The Instagram-worthy "yellow tunnel" is created when the ginkgo leaves turn a brilliant golden color, forming an enchanting space like an arch of light. The "yellow carpet" of fallen ginkgo leaves can be enjoyed from late November to early December. When Is the Best Time to See Autumn Foliage at Hikarigaoka Park's Keyaki Field? Where Can You View It? Photo：Hikarigaoka Park, Nerima, Tokyo After passing through the ginkgo trees and crossing Futago Bridge, you'll be welcomed by the silver Arch of Light, an art installation at Keyaki Field. Here, you're sure to be captivated by the autumn colors of the zelkova trees. The reddish leaves of the zelkova trees are what makes autumn in Japan so delightful. The best time to view the autumn foliage at Keyaki Field is typically from mid-November to mid-December. The collaboration of yellow ginkgos and red zelkovas creates a luxurious scene unique to Hikarigaoka Park. With just an 8-minute walk from Hikarigaoka Station on the Toei Subway Oedo Line, the park's excellent accessibility makes it perfect for weekend outings. Experience autumn in Japan to the fullest with this spectacular display. [Video] 0:51 - The Autumn Colors of Japan's Zelkova Trees How Can You Enjoy Autumn Reflections on the Water at Hikarigaoka Park? What Are the Best Photography Spots? Photo：A duck swimming on a pond One way to enjoy the autumn leaves at Hikarigaoka Park is to take some time to observe the leaves as they fall onto the surface of the pond. Although falling leaves often evoke a sense of melancholy, the red and yellow leaves floating on the surface of the pond in Hikarigaoka Park create a very emotional scene, captivating onlookers. The water surface displays a vivid contrast of ginkgo and zelkova leaves, enhanced by the elegant sight of ducks swimming gracefully—creating a uniquely late-autumn atmosphere. While creating memories of late autumn, don't forget to look down at the brilliant leaves drifting across the pond in addition to looking up at the colorful foliage. You may even capture some breathtaking photos as well... [Video] 1:51 - Fallen Leaves on the Surface of the Water What Is the "Boundary Line Between Yellow and Red" at Hikarigaoka Park? Why not slowly walk along the boundary between yellow and red? There's a special carpet that can only be seen at certain times when the fallen leaves and wind align perfectly. While the yellow and red avenues, each covered with their own color, are exciting enough in themselves, when you discover the boundary line, you'll likely recall childhood feelings and want to slowly trace along it—such is the landscape that unfolds before you. The gradation created by the yellow ginkgos and red zelkovas is truly miraculous art produced by nature. This boundary line shows a different expression each day depending on wind direction and the timing of fallen leaves, offering new discoveries with every visit. [Video] 2:25 - A Boundary of Red and Yellow Leaves When Can You See the Autumn Foliage Gradation at Hikarigaoka Park? Photo：A tunnel of autumn foliage When is the best time to view the autumn colors? Perhaps the answer is simply the moment that you visit. In the video, you can see the beautiful gradation of green, yellow, and red colors. At Hikarigaoka Park, from late October to early December, you can observe the gradual color changes from green to yellow, and yellow to red. For those who want to experience the exquisite atmosphere where not all colors have changed, early November is recommended. During this time, leaves that are still green, leaves shining golden, and leaves dyed bright red coexist, allowing you to enjoy nature's gradation art. [Video] 2:58 - The Changing of the Leaves to Various Colors When Is Hikarigaoka Park's Illumination Event Held? What Are the Highlights of "Nerima Hikarigaoka Hikari Pageant Festa"? The "Nerima Hikarigaoka Hikari Pageant Festa 2025&26" has been confirmed for 2025. Celebrating its 13th anniversary, this festival of light and art will once again illuminate Hikarigaoka during the year-end and New Year season. The street tree illumination along the ginkgo tree-lined "Fureai no Michi" avenue will be lit from November 29, 2025 (Sat) to January 25, 2026 (Sun), daily from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Approximately 150,000 LEDs will fantastically illuminate 24 trees and the "Water Fall Flow" light arch. For about two months, you can enjoy an enchanting space enveloped in light every evening. The main event, a festival of light and art, will be held on December 20 (Sat) and 21 (Sun), 2025, centered around Keyaki Field. The X'mas Stage will be held simultaneously on the same dates, featuring plenty of attractions including light displays, candle art, music and dance stages, and exhibition stages. In the new year, the New Year Stage will be held on January 10 (Sat) and 11 (Sun), 2026, at Fureai no Michi, with special events planned to celebrate the new year. Last year (2024), approximately 200,000 visitors enjoyed the events during both periods. Please be sure to take warm clothing and enjoy a magical, heartwarming time. For detailed programs and event information, please check the official website. 【Official Website】Nerima Hikarigaoka Hikari Pageant Festa 2025&26 https://hpf.beyond-japan.net/ How Do You Access Hikarigaoka Park? Is Parking Available? Hikarigaoka Park, the largest park in Nerima Ward at approximately 600,000 square meters, features a grassy plaza built on gently sloping hills dotted with cherry blossoms and zelkova trees, providing delightful scenery in all four seasons. The park also has a wealth of playground equipment, a bird sanctuary for bird watching, and day camping and barbecue areas, making it a popular recreational spot beloved by people of all ages in the surrounding area. In this article, we introduced the large ginkgo trees, ginkgo tree-lined avenue, and Keyaki Field as hidden gems for autumn foliage viewing at Hikarigaoka Park. The area is also easily accessible by train: just an 8-minute walk from Hikarigaoka Station on the Toei Subway Oedo Line, or a 15-minute walk from Narimasu Station on the Tobu Tojo Line and Subway Narimasu Station on the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin and Yurakucho Lines. During autumn foliage season, weekends (especially from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM) can be crowded, so we recommend using public transportation. This is a highly recommended spot in Tokyo's Nerima Ward that you should definitely visit on weekends. On November 23, 2025 (Sun/Holiday), the "Hikarigaoka Park Festa" is scheduled to be held, providing an excellent opportunity to enjoy both autumn foliage and events simultaneously. ◆Hikarigaoka Park◆ Address: Hikarigaoka 2-chome and 4-chome, Asahicho 2-chome, Nerima-ku; Akatsuka-shinmachi 3-chome, Itabashi-ku For inquiries: Hikarigaoka Park Service Center (TEL: 03-3977-7638) Parking: Available (Paid - expect congestion during autumn foliage season) Access: An 8-minute walk from Hikarigaoka Station (E38) on the Toei Subway Oedo Line; a 15-minute walk from Narimasu Station on the Tobu Tojo Line, Subway Narimasu (F02) on the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, and Subway Narimasu (Y02) on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Best viewing period: Ginkgo tree-lined avenue - early to mid-November; Keyaki Field - mid-November to mid-December 【Official Website】Hikarigaoka Park - Let's go to the park! https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/format/index023.html 【TripAdvisor】Hikarigaoka Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066453-d4889941-Reviews-Hikarigaoka_Park-Nerima_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

What Is Tochigi Prefectural Central Park? Located in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, Tochigi Prefectural Central Park is a prefectural urban park developed that brings together“Water, Greenery, and Culture.” Within the park are four ponds—Chinshō Pond, Shōwa Pond, Omokage Pond, and Mutsubi Pond—each creating its own distinct scenery that can be enjoyed throughout the seasons. The park was developed as part of a commemorative project celebrating the 50th anniversary of Emperor Shōwa’s reign, with construction beginning in 1977 and the park opening in October 1982. It is a charming place where open landscapes and cultural facilities coexist in perfect harmony. Here, we’ll introduce the park’s highlights, ways to enjoy it in each season, photo spots, and the attractions of the nearby Tochigi Prefectural Museum—all in a gentle, easy-to-read tone. Highlights of Tochigi Prefectural Central Park Photo: Central Park, Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture ● Sunken Garden (Western-style Garden) Located at the park’s entrance, the Sunken Garden is designed in a “sunken” style, with the ground level slightly lower than its surroundings, creating an open view that extends toward the sky. Inspired by European garden design, it features beautiful seasonal flowerbeds and tree-lined walkways, offering a refreshing space where visitors can feel the changes of the seasons. Depending on the time of day, the light changes dramatically—bright and vibrant at noon, then softly tinted with orange hues in the evening. With many benches available, it’s a place where you’ll want to take your time and relax. ● Shōwa Pond and the Great Fountain Shōwa Pond, located in the center of the park, is its symbolic feature. The wide water surface reflects the sky and changes expression with the wind. The large fountain that shoots up about 20 meters high is quite dynamic, and on sunny days, the water sparkles beautifully in the light. Walking paths encircle the pond, and visitors can be seen jogging, reading on benches, or simply relaxing. The sound of the fountain acts as a soothing natural background, creating a peaceful atmosphere. ● Japanese Garden (Mutsubi Pond and Shōkei Bridge) At the back of the park lies the Japanese Garden, a tranquil area where nature and serenity harmonize beautifully. At its center, Mutsubi Pond reflects maple trees and pines on its calm surface, especially stunning in autumn when the colorful leaves are mirrored on the water. Many photographers visit during this season to capture the scene’s quiet beauty. The garden’s symbolic Shōkei Bridge crosses the center of the pond, and the view changes depending on where you stand. The plants and stone arrangements are perfectly balanced, making it a popular spot for photos. The sounds of wind and water resonate through the garden, creating a calm and peaceful environment that feels far removed from the city. ● Omokage Pond (In front of Tochigi Prefectural Museum) Omokage Pond, located in front of the Tochigi Prefectural Museum, is the most serene of the park’s four ponds. The building and surrounding trees are beautifully reflected on its surface, changing expression dramatically with the seasons and weather. In spring, the soft green of new leaves brightens the area; in summer, the shadows deepen; in autumn, colorful foliage paints the water; and in winter, the crisp air and clear reflections create a tranquil beauty—perfect for those who enjoy quiet moments in nature. Enjoying the Park Through the Four Seasons Photo: Cherry Blossoms at Central Park, Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture ● Spring As spring arrives, the park begins to bloom with color. The flowerbeds in the Sunken Garden are filled with cheerful blossoms, while cherry trees around Shōwa Pond create soft pink reflections on the water, forming a scene unique to springtime. In the Japanese Garden, the fresh green maples sprout new leaves, filling the area with a vibrant energy that lifts your spirits as you stroll through. ● Summer During summer, the trees are at their greenest, and the shade throughout the park provides a pleasant coolness. Around Shōwa Pond, breezes flow easily, and in the evenings, the air becomes refreshingly cool, making it a great time for a leisurely walk. The spacious lawns are popular for picnics and relaxing under the trees, offering the laid-back atmosphere of summer. Photo: Autumn leaves at Central Park, Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture ● Autumn Autumn is one of the most popular seasons at Tochigi Prefectural Central Park. The paths are covered with colorful foliage, creating a beautiful “tunnel of autumn leaves.” At Mutsubi Pond in the Japanese Garden, the reflections of the leaves are especially stunning, attracting many photographers. At Shōwa Pond, the combination of the fountain and autumn colors creates a scene that is both dynamic and serene. The flowerbeds in the Sunken Garden also bloom with autumn flowers, filling the park with a warm and calm atmosphere—perfect for a stroll. ● Winter In winter, the structural beauty of the gardens is most visible. In the Japanese Garden, the bare branches and stone arrangements stand out clearly, creating dramatic contrasts. At Omokage Pond, the crisp winter air enhances the reflections, and on clear mornings, the water surface mirrors the sky like glass. It’s an ideal time to quietly enjoy nature’s stillness. What Can You See at the Tochigi Prefectural Museum? The Tochigi Prefectural Museum, located adjacent to the park, is a comprehensive museum showcasing the prefecture’s nature, history, and culture. Its exhibits cover a wide range of themes, including: ・Historical materials related to Tochigi Prefecture ・Specimens of plants, animals, and minerals ・Exhibits on ancient ruins and folk culture ・Artifacts related to crafts and fine arts ・Special and seasonal exhibitions The museum offers something for visitors of all ages. In addition to the indoor exhibits, the surrounding walking paths are also worth exploring. Many trees are labeled with their species names, allowing visitors to enjoy a casual nature walk while learning about the local flora. Together with the serene Omokage Pond, the area offers a unique blend of “nature and culture” in one visit. Best Photo Spots Photo: Central Park, Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture Tochigi Prefectural Central Park is full of “photo-worthy” views. Each season offers different scenery, making it a perfect destination for photography enthusiasts. ● Sunken Garden Great for wide-angle shots that include the open sky. The flower colors change dramatically with the seasons, so every visit feels fresh and new. ● Shōwa Pond (Great Fountain) The mood of the pond changes completely depending on the time of day—morning, midday, or evening. The reflection of sunlight on the water and the golden glow at sunset are particularly beautiful. ● Mutsubi Pond (Japanese Garden) Especially popular during autumn, when still days allow the colorful leaves to reflect perfectly on the water. It’s a spot filled with classic Japanese charm. ● Shōkei Bridge Standing at the center of the bridge gives you a perfectly balanced view on both sides, ideal for capturing the depth and harmony of the garden. ● Omokage Pond Known for its calm reflections of trees and buildings, this spot offers a quiet beauty that changes with the weather and seasons. ● Tree-Lined Paths The paths circling the park transform completely with the seasons—especially in autumn, when they become a stunning “corridor of red leaves.” Access ・By train: About 15 minutes by local bus from JR Utsunomiya Station or Tobu-Utsunomiya Station. Get off at “Chūō Kōen / Hakubutsukan-mae.” ・By car: Parking available (arriving early is recommended during busy times). Basic Information ・Address: 2-50 Mutsumichō, Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture ・Opening Hours:　March–September: 5:00–20:00　October–February: 5:30–18:00 ・Closed: Open year-round ・Admission: Free Official Website Summary Tochigi Prefectural Central Park is a beautiful urban park where four ponds and a blend of Japanese and Western gardens create a rich, scenic landscape. With cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant foliage in autumn, and serene stillness in winter, each season offers its own distinct charm. Autumn is especially breathtaking, with reflections of colored leaves and a tranquil garden atmosphere that soothes the heart. It’s a place where you can enjoy both nature and culture—take a leisurely walk and experience the beauty of the changing seasons.

Mt. Takao – A Mountain Surrounded by Nature, Just an Hour From the Heart of Tokyo Photo：Mt. Takao, Hachioji, Tokyo Mt. Takao is a 599-meter-tall mountain located in Hachioji, Tokyo. It was designated as Meiji no Mori Takao Quasi-National Park and in 2020 became the first mountain in Tokyo to be recognized by the Agency for Cultural Affairs as a "Japan Heritage Site" as "Mt. Takao – A Mountain Full of Spirituality ~The Tale of the Mulberry Capital, Spun From People's Prayers~." Takao Yakuoin Temple, one of the three main temples of the Chizan sect of Shingon Buddhism, is located halfway up Mt. Takao, and various events are held at the temple throughout the year, including a Setsubun Festival, Spring Festival, Autumn Festival, festivals with bonfires, and more. You can view the autumn leaves at Yakuo-in from 1:54 in the video. Photo：Yakuoin Temple, Mt. Takao Near Mt. Takao Cable Car Station, there is a monkey garden, a wildflower garden, and the Mt. Takao Beer Garden, where visitors can enjoy a refreshing beer in the summer. The beautiful autumn scenery visible from the cable car can be seen from 0:54 in the video. As it's located just one hour from central Tokyo, visitors can easily enjoy mountain climbing and hiking in the area throughout the year. In 2007, Mt. Takao was awarded the highest ranking of three stars in the Michelin Guide, along with Mt. Fuji, making it well known worldwide, and it is currently the most climbed mountain in the world, attracting approximately 3 million climbers annually. When Is the Best Time to View the Autumn Leaves on Mt. Takao? [Updated Information for 2025] Photo：Autumn leaves on Mt. Takao, Hachioji, Tokyo Surrounded by abundant nature, the autumn leaves of Mt. Takao begin to change color from around the end of October, and are usually at their best from mid-November to early December. This is slightly later than in central Tokyo. The autumn colors of the maple and beech trees turn Mt. Takao brilliant shades of red and yellow, but the best time to see the leaves is usually near the foot of the mountain in mid-November, and near the summit in late November. The autumn foliage near the summit can be seen from 5:27 in the video. Source :Hachioji's local information portal site, Hachinavi During the peak foliage viewing season, the cable cars and lifts are often crowded, and you may have to wait an hour or more for a ride. The trail leading to the summit is also congested with climbers, and it's sometimes difficult to advance. The 2025 "Mt. Takao Maple Festival" will be held from October 25 to December 14. At the event plaza, performances by students from Hachioji City and other events will be held. Also, on weekdays during the festival, visitors can get a raffle ticket when they spend 1,000 yen or more at member stores of the Takao-san Shopping Association. 599 people will win prizes. What Are the Recommended Courses and Tips for Viewing the Autumn Leaves on Mt. Takao? [Updated Information for 2025] Source :Hachioji's local information portal site, Hachinavi There are several trails on Mt. Takao that lead to the summit. The main trails and routes on Mt. Takao are as follows: ・Trail 1 (Omotesando Trail): Total length: 3.8 km ・Trail 2 (Kasumidai Loop Trail): Total length: 900 m ・Trail 3 (Katsura Forest Trail): Total length: 2.4 km ・Trail 4 (Suspension Bridge Trail): Total length: 1.5 km ・Trail 5 (Summit Loop Trail): Total length: 900 m ・Trail 6 (Biwa Waterfall Trail): Total length: 3.3 km ・Inariyama Trail (Ridgeline Trail): Total length: 3.1 km Below, we'll introduce the features of each course and recommended points of interest for viewing the autumn leaves. Source :Hachioji's local information portal site, Hachinavi Trail 1 (Omotesando Trail) This is the most popular route for climbing Mt. It is also paved, making it a friendly route for beginners. Kasumidai Observatory, the Buddhist Stupa, Yakuoin Temple, and the summit of Mt. Takao are points of interest for viewing the autumn leaves. Trail 2 (Kasumidai Loop Trail) It takes about 30 minutes to go around the area near Mt. Takao Cable Car Station on the cable car. The wildflower garden is a point of interest for viewing the autumn leaves. Trail 3 (Katsura Forest Trail) This course is located on the south side of Trail 1 and has relatively fewer hikers than other trails, allowing visitors to take their time and enjoy the natural surroundings. It's not recommended for viewing the autumn leaves, as there are many evergreen trees. Photo：The suspension bridge on Mt. Takao, Hachioji Tokyo Trail 4 (Suspension Bridge Trail) Located on the north side of Trail 1, Trail 4 is popular for its suspension bridge (Miyama Bridge), the only suspension bridge on Mt. Takao. Many deciduous trees lose their leaves during the winter season, and the yellowing of dogtooth vines and beech trees can be enjoyed during autumn. The autumn leaves at the suspension bridge on Trail 4 can be viewed from 3:10 in the video. Trail 5 (Summit Loop Trail) This course circles the area just below the summit of Mount Takao and takes about 30 minutes to complete. Almost all trails, including Trails 1, 3, 4, 6, and the Inariyama Trail, are connected to Trail 5. The course has few changes in elevation, allowing visitors to enjoy the autumn leaves at a leisurely pace. Trail 6 (Biwa Waterfall Trail) This trail is also called the "water trail" because of the waterfalls and rivers along its creeks. Biwa Falls has long been used for water ablutions by Shugendo practitioners. The trail is not very well maintained, and footing is poor in some places, so we do not recommend hiking with light equipment. Because this trail takes you through an overgrown forest, you will not be able to see the autumn leaves. Inariyama Trail (Ridgeline Trail) This course passes through the south side of Mt. Takao and includes some steep ascents, making it a genuine mountain climbing experience. It takes only 90 minutes to reach the summit, and you can enjoy viewing the various autumn colors from the foot of the mountain to the summit. How to Avoid Crowds When Climbing Mt. Takao Mt. Takao is very popular and can get especially crowded on weekends and during the autumn foliage season. To avoid the crowds, we recommend starting your hike early on a weekday. The number of climbers increases significantly after 10 a.m., so it's best to arrive at the station or trailhead by around 8 a.m. Also, instead of the crowded Trail No. 1 or using the cable car, try taking less congested routes such as Trail No. 4 or the Inariyama Trail. If you're driving, note that parking lots often fill up by the morning, so using public transportation or arriving early is a safer choice. Plan ahead and enjoy the nature of Mt. Takao in peace. How to Access Mt. Takao? Photo：Takaosanguchi Station, Hachioji Tokyo [Access via Train] Keio Line: From Shinjuku Station to Takao-yamaguchi Station, approx. 50 min. JR Chuo Line: From Shinjuku Station to Takao Station: 44 min (special rapid), 58 min (rapid); from JR Takao Station, transfer to Keio Line to reach Takao-yamaguchi Station, approx. 3 min. [Access via Car] Take the Chuo Expressway via Hachioji Junction, get off at the Mt. Takao Interchange on the Ken-O Expressway, and drive approximately 5 minutes towards Shinjuku. There are several pay parking lots around the foot of Mt. Takao, but please note that they become very crowded during the high season for viewing the autumn leaves. What Are the Points of Interest Near Mt. Takao During Autumn Foliage Season? [Updated Information for 2025] Mt. Takao features a variety of popular tourist attractions in addition to hiking, so consider stopping by some of them on your way home after a day of mountain climbing. [Hot Spring Facilities Near Mount Takao] Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu is a recommended day spa located next to Keio Takao-yamaguchi Station on Mt. Takao. Opened in 2015, this relatively new spa facility offers seven different types of baths, including an outdoor bath with natural hot spring water, as well as a sauna and a micro-bubbling cypress bath. Source :Hachioji's local information portal site, Hachinavi Address: 2229-7 Takao-machi, Hachioji City, Tokyo, 193-0844 Admission Fee: Weekdays - Adults ¥1,100, Children ¥550 / Weekends & Peak Season - Adults ¥1,300, Children ¥650 (Peak Season: December 29 - January 3, Golden Week, Obon, November 1-30, etc.) Spring Quality: Simple alkaline hot spring Hours: 8 AM - 10:45 PM (Open year-round) Telephone: 042-663-4126 Parking: Available (Up to 110 standard vehicles. Free parking for 3 hours for hot spring users) Official Website: Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu Official Website Access: Located near Takao-yamaguchi Station on the Keio Line [Soba Restaurants Near Mt. Takao] More than 20 soba noodle shops line the streets from the foot of Mt. Takao to the summit of the mountain. To relieve the fatigue of worshippers visiting Takao Yakuoin Temple, one store began serving soba noodles topped with grated yam, which is believed to nourish and strengthen the body, about 100 years ago in 1924. Gonsuke Source :Hachioji's local information portal site, Hachinavi With private rooms, large and medium-sized halls, Gonsuke is a restaurant that can be used for a variety of occasions. Gonsuke's specialty is its authentic Irori-yaki course featuring carefully selected ingredients grilled over an irori (a traditional Japanese open hearth). A shuttle bus service is available from Takao-yamaguchi Station, so definitely consider dropping in for a delicious meal on your way home from mountain climbing. Address: 4068 Minami Asakawa-cho, Hachioji-shi, Tokyo Access: A 5-minute drive from Takao-yamaguchi Station on the Keio Takao Line Parking: Available (70 vehicles) Hours: 11:00 AM 10:00 PM Closures: None Official Website: Gonsuke Official Website [Ukai Toriyama] Source :Hachioji's local information portal site, Hachinavi Source :Hachioji's local information portal site, Hachinavi At Ukai Toriyama, located in inner Takao, a 10-minute drive from Takao-Yamaguchi Station, you can enjoy authentic food charcoal-grilled over an irori. Visitors can enjoy a meal in an atmosphere not often found in Tokyo, with buildings in the Gassho-zukuri style relocated from Gokayama, and an 8,000 sq m Japanese garden. This restaurant has also been featured in a variety of popular Japanese TV shows. Address: 3426 Minami-asakawa-machi Hachioji City, Tokyo 193-0846 Access: A 10-minute drive from Takao-yamaguchi Station on the Keio-Takao Line Parking: Available Hours: Weekdays 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM / 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM Weekends 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Closures: Tuesdays (varies by season), Year-end and New Years holidays Official Website: Ukai Toriyama Official Website TAKAO 599 MUSEUM Source :Hachioji's local information portal site, Hachinavi A facility where visitors can learn about the history of Mt. Takao and the ecosystems of its flora and fauna. Visitors can learn about Mt. Takao through specimens of insects and animals that live in the mountain, as well as through fossilized animal specimens. Admission is free, so definitely stop in for a visit. Address: 2435-3 Takao, Hachioji, Tokyo 193-0844 Telephone: 042-665-6688 Business Days: Open year-round ※Possible closures due to maintenance Hours: [April - November] 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM / [December - March] 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Admission Fee: Free Access: An approximately 4-minute walk from Takao-yamaguchi Station on the Keio Electric Railway (Keio Line) Official Website: TAKAO 599 MUSEUM Official Website Summary of Autumn Foliage Information for Mt. Takao ~Don't Forget Bear Safety Precautions~ Mount Takao, which can be reached in less than an hour from Tokyo, offers a colorful landscape of red and yellow leaves during autumn. Enjoy a pleasant dose of negative ions in this popular spot surrounded by nature that you wouldn't expect to find in Tokyo. [Bear Sighting Information and Safety Measures on Mt. Takao] In recent years, sightings of Asian black bears (Tsuki-no-wa-guma) have been reported around Mt. Takao. According to "TOKYO Kuma-ppu" (Tokyo Bear Map) provided by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Bureau of Environment, sightings have been confirmed in the Mt. Takao area. The autumn foliage season (October to November) is also when bears are most active before hibernation. Please observe the following safety measures when hiking: ・Carry bear bells or radios to make noise and signal your presence to wildlife ・Avoid hiking alone during early morning or dusk; travel in groups whenever possible ・Check the latest sighting information on "TOKYO Kuma-ppu" before your visit ・Exercise extra caution on less crowded routes (Trail 6, Oku-Takao areas) ・Always take your trash with you to avoid attracting bears While there have been no reported bear attacks on humans at Mt. Takao in the past three years, proper preparation is essential for a safe visit. By taking appropriate precautions, you can fully enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage and rich natural environment.

Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, Takahashi City, Okayama｜Enjoy Autumn Foliage and a Sea of Clouds at the Castle in the Sky The video “Reiwa Autumn Leaves: Bitchu Matsuyama Castle” (approx. 2 minutes 36 seconds), released by Yomiuri Shimbun Online, introduces the autumn scenery of Bitchu Matsuyama Castle. Without narration or commentary, the footage calmly shows the castle and stone walls wrapped in autumn leaves accompanied by soothing background music. Its simplicity emphasizes the visual and auditory appeal, leaving viewers wanting to go see it for themselves after watching. Photo: Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, one of Japan’s Twelve Original Castles (Okayama Prefecture, Takahashi City) What is Bitchu Matsuyama Castle? A Famous Castle Counted Among the 12 Surviving Original Tenshu Located at the summit of Mt. Gagyu (approx. 430 meters above sea level) in Takahashi City, Okayama Prefecture, Bitchu Matsuyama Castle is considered along with Iwamura Castle and Takatori Castle to be one of the Three Great Mountain Castles of Japan. Its origins date back to the Kamakura period, and during the Sengoku period it became a strategic stronghold contested by powerful warlords such as the Mōri　clan. Its most distinctive feature is that the tenshu (main keep) built in the Edo period still survives today. It is one of only 12 genzon tenshu (original surviving castle keeps) in the country and, moreover, is the only surviving mountain castle keep in Japan. The wooden architecture and solid stone walls convey the atmosphere of the Edo period, making it feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. Visible from the city below, the castle remains a symbol of Takahashi. Why It’s Called the “Castle in the Sky” From autumn through winter, when morning fog gathers in the valleys, Bitchu Matsuyama Castle appears to float above a sea of clouds. This mystical scene has earned it the nickname “Castle in the Sky,” attracting visitors from across Japan. Photo: Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, Okayama Prefecture Takeda Castle in Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture, is also called the “Castle in the Sky” and is nicknamed the “Machu Picchu of Japan.” However, at Takeda Castle the vast stone ruins are the highlight. In contrast, Bitchu Matsuyama Castle still has its original keep, and it is the only place in Japan where you can see an original keep floating in a sea of clouds. Comparing the two as you walk the grounds in person will make the differences even more apparent. Photos of the sea of clouds are frequently shared on social media and featured in the media, drawing nationwide attention. Best Conditions and Timing to See the Sea of Clouds The sea of clouds is most likely to appear from late September to early April in the early morning until around 8 a.m., with late October to early December being the peak period for thick fog. Conditions include a large temperature difference from the previous day, radiative cooling, weak winds, and recent rainfall. When these factors combine, the castle appears to float in the sky in a dreamlike scene. The Bitchu Matsuyama Castle Cloud Sea Observatory is the standard viewing spot. Located on a peak separate from the castle keep, it is only a one-minute walk from the parking lot. The site is about a 20-minute drive from JR Bitchu-Takahashi Station, and during autumn to spring, a reservation-based shared taxi service is also available. Best Season for Autumn Leaves and Scenic Viewing Points Autumn foliage at Bitchu Matsuyama Castle typically peaks from mid to late November. The surrounding trees turn vivid shades of red and gold, further enhancing the beauty of the tenshu and stone walls. Photo: Autumn leaves at Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, Okayama Prefecture If you’re lucky, you may witness both autumn leaves and the sea of clouds together, as shown in the video. The striking contrast of red, yellow, and white is breathtaking and unique to this season. Great photo spots include not only within the castle grounds but also along the mountain path and from the observatory. Morning and afternoon lighting dramatically change the atmosphere, offering different scenery depending on the time of your visit. How is Takeda Castle Different from Bitchu Matsuyama Castle? Takeda Castle in Hyogo Prefecture was built during the Muromachi period and later came under the control of the Yamana clan and Toyotomi Hideyoshi during the Sengoku period. However, it was abandoned in the early Edo period, leaving only the vast stone ruins. Its magnificent stone walls rising above the clouds earned it the nickname “Machu Picchu of Japan.” Photo: Ruins of Takeda Castle, Hyogo Prefecture In contrast, Bitchu Matsuyama Castle in Takahashi, Okayama, originated in the Kamakura period and retains its tenshu built during the Edo period. Thus, Takeda Castle represents “a ruin that lets you imagine the past,” while Bitchu Matsuyama Castle offers “a mountain castle where you can experience an original keep.” Both are famous for their sea of clouds, but their historical backgrounds and surviving structures differ greatly. Visiting both allows you to appreciate the diverse faces of Japan’s “Castles in the Sky.” Sightseeing and Local Cuisine in Takahashi City After visiting Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, exploring the castle town and tasting local specialties is another highlight of the trip. Takahashi is known for its agricultural products, including the sweet “Pione” grapes and rich “Momotaro Tomatoes.” In summer, ayu fish caught in the Takahashi River are grilled and served in local restaurants as a seasonal delicacy. In addition, the traditional confectionery “Yubeshi,” crafted by the long-established shop Tennindo, remains a popular souvenir. Photo: “Yubeshi,” a traditional confectionery from Okayama Local specialties also include “Indian Tomato Yakisoba,” a popular dish at Gomangoku restaurant. You can also enjoy soba noodles at Hokoan and tofu dishes at Koibi Tofu Kumojirou. For a relaxing break, the Starbucks inside Tsutaya Bookstore at Takahashi City Library is a convenient stop, loved by both locals and visitors. Combining these gourmet experiences makes your trip even more fulfilling. For example, visit the Cloud Sea Observatory in the morning, explore the castle before noon, enjoy “Indian Tomato Yakisoba” for lunch, stroll the castle town and confectionery shops in the afternoon, and finish the day with soba or tofu dishes. Such a day plan is highly recommended. Access and Visitor Information Address: 1 Uchisange, Takahashi City, Okayama Prefecture Access (Castle Keep): From JR Bitchu-Takahashi Station, walk about 10 minutes to “Shiro-machi Station,” then take the shuttle bus to Fuyogo Pass (about 5 minutes), followed by a 20-minute walk to the tenshu. On non-bus days, cars can be driven directly to Fuyogo Pass. By taxi, it takes about 10 minutes from the station (around 1,700 yen one way). Cloud Sea Observatory: Located on a separate peak from the castle keep, 1-minute walk from the parking lot. About 20 minutes by car from the station. A reservation-based shared taxi service runs during autumn to spring. Opening Hours: April–September 9:00–17:30 (last entry 17:00), October–March 9:00–16:30 (last entry 16:00) Closed: December 29 – January 3 Admission: Adults 500 yen, Elementary/Junior High Students 200 yen For more details, please see the official website: https://www.bitchumatsuyamacastle.jp/ Conclusion: A Perfect Autumn Destination, the Castle in the Sky As the only mountain castle in Japan with a surviving original keep, Bitchu Matsuyama Castle offers a rare experience where you can enjoy both nature and history through autumn leaves and a sea of clouds. Along with Takeda Castle, it is called the “Castle in the Sky,” but knowing their differences makes your journey even more rewarding. Combining castle town walks with local food makes a trip to Takahashi even more enjoyable. Watching the castle surrounded by clouds and autumn colors in the early morning will surely be an unforgettable experience.

What Kind of Temple Is Kozenji? Located in Kiso Town, Nagano Prefecture, Kozenji is a Zen temple belonging to the Myoshinji school of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism. It is believed to have been founded during the Muromachi period. Nestled quietly in the mountains, the temple grounds harmonize with the natural beauty of the Kiso Valley, offering peace and tranquility to visitors. The temple is also closely connected to the famous samurai Kiso Yoshinaka, known for his role in the Genpei War. Within the grounds stands a weeping cherry tree called the "Shigure-zakura," said to be the second generation grown from one Yoshinaka himself planted. The tree is especially beautiful in spring, when it is well-known for being lit up in nighttime illuminations. Highlights of the Sanmon Gate and Main Hall As you walk along the approach to the temple, the first thing you'll notice is the Sanmon Gate0:08. Though simple and wooden in design, it exudes a dignified presence that speaks to its long history, gently calming those who pass through it. Photo: Kozenji Temple in Kiso Town, Nagano Prefecture Beyond the gate, a flight of stone steps leads up to the Main Hall (0:17). The hall is solemn yet serene, enveloping visitors in a peaceful atmosphere. Offering a prayer here can calm your mind before exploring the gardens, deepening the sense of spiritual connection. What Are the Four Gardens of Kozenji? Kozenji is home to four distinctive gardens: the Bansho-tei, a traditional pond-style garden from the early Edo period; the Kan'un-tei, a dry landscape garden created by Mirei Shigemori in the mid-Showa era; and two modern dry landscape gardens by Motomi Oguchi from the Heisei era—the Shoryu no Niwa and the Shumisen no Niwa. Photo: Dry landscape garden at Kozenji Temple, Kiso, Nagano Prefecture Dry Landscape Garden “Kan’un-tei” Kan’un-tei (1:07) is a dry landscape garden designed by the renowned garden artist Mirei Shigemori in the 1950s. This expansive stone garden is sometimes referred to as one of the largest of its kind in Japan and was officially designated a Registered Monument (Place of Scenic Beauty) in 2019. The minimalist composition of white gravel and stone arrangements allows for varied interpretations—some see the ocean, mountains, or drifting clouds. As its name suggests, it is a “garden for viewing clouds,” offering moments of stillness that let the mind wander skyward. Pond Garden “Bansho-tei” Bansho-tei is a traditional pond garden attributed to tea master Kanamori Sowa. Centered around a reflective pond, the garden features pine trees and carefully arranged stones that create a peaceful and refined atmosphere. The scenery changes with the seasons—the autumn foliage and snowy winter landscapes reflected on the water are particularly breathtaking. A Treasure Hall is also located within the temple grounds, where visitors can enjoy cultural artifacts alongside the garden views. Dry Landscape Garden “Shoryu no Niwa” Shoryu no Niwa, or "Garden of the Ascending Dragon," was created by Motomi Oguchi during the Heisei era. As the name implies, the stone arrangement represents a dragon soaring toward the heavens, evoking a powerful sense of movement. With its delicately crafted sand patterns and symbolic rock placements, the garden invites viewers to envision a dragon taking flight into the sky. Dry Landscape Garden “Shumisen no Niwa (Garden of Nine Mountains and Eight Seas)” Last is Shumisen no Niwa, or the “Garden of Mount Sumeru,” a dry landscape garden symbolizing the cosmic mountain at the center of the Buddhist universe. Also known as the “Garden of Nine Mountains and Eight Seas,” it depicts Buddhist cosmology using stones and sand. Designed by Motomi Oguchi, this garden expresses the abstract beauty of Zen, offering a tangible experience of Buddhist thought through landscape. The Shigure-zakura and Its Illuminated Beauty A highlight of spring at Kozenji is the Shigure-zakura, a weeping cherry tree said to be the second generation from one planted by Kiso Yoshinaka. It usually reaches full bloom from mid to late April, with its pale pink blossoms covering the branches. At night, the tree is illuminated, creating a dreamlike scene where it appears to float in the darkness. Reflected in the pond and accompanied by stone lanterns, the nighttime cherry blossoms are especially captivating—making this a favorite spot among photographers. The light-up event typically takes place from late March to early April, from sunset to around 10:00 PM. For 2025, it is scheduled for Wednesday, April 9, but dates may vary yearly, so please check official announcements in advance. Nearby Spots to Explore Alongside Kozenji If you're visiting Kozenji, be sure to explore the historic post towns along the Nakasendo Trail. Tsumago-juku, which retains the look and feel of the Edo period, is about a 45-minute drive from Kiso-Fukushima. Magome-juku, with its sloping streets and nostalgic charm, is about 60 minutes away by car. Photo: Tsumago-juku, Nagano Prefecture Both are highlights of the Kiso region and make for a perfect pairing with Kozenji’s beautiful gardens. Exploring these historical towns alongside the temple visit will enrich your travel experience. How to Enjoy Kozenji on a Tour or Day Trip Thanks to its relatively easy access from both Nagoya and Nagano City, Kozenji is a great option for a day trip. A typical itinerary includes visiting the temple and gardens in the morning, then exploring Tsumago-juku or Magome-juku in the afternoon. During cherry blossom season, many visitors return to Kozenji in the evening to enjoy the illuminated Shigure-zakura before heading home. Many travel agencies offer tours that combine Kozenji with nearby post towns, allowing you to enjoy the seasonal beauty of cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage later in the year. Access and Visitor Information On Foot: About 20–23 minutes from JR Kiso-Fukushima Station By Car: From Shiojiri IC / Ina IC / Nakatsugawa IC via National Route 19 (Travel times may vary depending on road conditions) By Bus: No regular shuttle bus service confirmed. Please check the latest official updates when planning your visit. Admission: Adults: ¥500, Children: ¥300 Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM Open Season: April 1 – November 23: All four gardens + Treasure Hall; November 24 – March 31: Only Kan’un-tei and Bansho-tei are open Light-Up Event: Late March to early April, from sunset to around 10:00 PM 👉 For more details, visit the official website: Kozenji – Kiso Tourism Association Official Site Conclusion: A Temple Where Gardens and Cherry Blossoms Create Harmony Kozenji Temple features four unique gardens—Kan’un-tei, Bansho-tei, Shoryu no Niwa, and Shumisen no Niwa—each offering its own aesthetic experience. In spring, the legendary Shigure-zakura, said to have ties to Kiso Yoshinaka, adds color to the temple grounds. Its nighttime illumination draws visitors into a magical atmosphere. When traveling in the Kiso region or Nagano Prefecture, consider including Kozenji in your itinerary. Here, history, nature, and garden beauty come together for a truly special and enriching experience. .caption-heading-2 { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; margin-bottom: 15px; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 40px; }

■ Table of Contents A Miraculous Story You Can Only Encounter in Engaru, Hokkaido The National Treasure: The Obsidian Stone Tool Assemblage of Shirataki What Is Obsidian? The “Volcanic Glass” That Enchanted Ancient Peoples What sort of place is the Shirataki Geopark Visitor Center? Learn about the natural beauty and enduring history of Engaru, Hokkaido Discover the Engaru Town Buried Cultural Heritage Center, Where National Treasure Obisidian Tools from Shirataki Are On Display How to Best Explore Geosites That Tell the Story of the Earth No. 8 Stream Outcrop (Obsidian Outcrop) Summit of Akaishiyama Ganbō Rock (Inkarushi) Tengudaira Observation Point Taihei Plateau Yamabiko Falls Muri Wind Cave Tourist Spots to Enjoy in Engaru | Must-See Highlights in Each Area ■ Engaru District｜Spectacular Flower & Nature Spots Cosmos Garden Taiyō no Oka Engaru Park Roadside Station “Engaru Forest of Okhotsk”｜A Station Full of Activities ■ Maruseppu District｜Forest Railways & Insect Paradise Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori｜Ride the “Amemiya 21” Maruseppu Insect Ecology Museum｜Insects Donated by SHO Aikawa ■ Ikutahara District｜Hands On Museums & Art World Chacha World｜A Dreamful World of Toys & Shadow Play Seiji Fujishiro Koropokkuru Shadow Play Museum｜A Fantasy of Light & Shadow Hidden Tourist Spots Recommended by Engaru Locals Miharashi Farm｜Idyllic Pastoral Scene Typical of Hokkaido Engaru Station｜Switchback That Enthralls Railway Fans A Side of a Self Defense Forces Town Engaru Town Gourmet & Local Products｜Taste the Blessings of the Land Gourmet Inspired by Obsidian Shirataki Potatoes｜Brand Potatoes Renowned for Sweetness & Texture Engaru’s Asparagus｜Green Gift Heralding Spring Engaru Town Event Calendar｜Festivals & Events Coloring the Seasons Taiyō no Oka Cosmos Festa Engaru Ganbō Summer Festival Recommended Lodging and Hot Springs in Engaru | How to Enjoy the Ultimate in Relaxation “Mauresan sō” Maruseppu Hot Spring in a Forest Resort Day Use Hot Spring “Pokke no Yu” “Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori Campground” Surrounded by Nature Distinctive Lodgings by District Accessing Engaru and How to Best Sightsee Around Town 【By Air】 【By JR】 【By Car】 【In Town Sightseeing】 Summary of Engaru Town’s Attractions｜A Call to a Special Hokkaido Experience Show More A Miraculous Story You Can Only Encounter in Engaru, Hokkaido Here lies the obsidian that became the stone tools that are Japan’s oldest National Treasure. This is also the only town in all of Hokkaido where a National Treasure and a Geopark come together. Formed through the merger of the three towns of Engaru, Maruseppu, Ikutahara and the village of Shirataki, Engaru is a destination where flowers and forests, railways and hotsprings, and timeless history all come alive. On this wide northern expanse, where Ezo deer and red foxes run free, you can experience both the romance of the ancient past and the living breath of nature. In this article, we’ll dive into Engaru’s unique charms, from information about obsidian and geoparks to an introduction of the local hot springs, sightseeing spots, and gourmet dining beloved by locals. Seasonal landscapes, such as Taiyō no Oka with its fields of flowers, forest railways weaving through the trees, frozen waterfalls glistening in winter and star-filled night skies, leave unforgettable impressions on visitors. Come to Engaru, and discover the “miraculous stories” that can only be found here, admist the warmth and insight of those who live here in harmony with the land. The National Treasure: The Obsidian Stone Tool Assemblage of Shirataki The Shirataki area of Engaru Town in Hokkaido is best known for possessing Japan’s oldest National Treasure, the Obsidian Stone Tools Excavated from the Shirataki Archaeological Sites. In Hokkaido, only two items are designated as National Treasures: the “Hollow Clay Figurine (Chūkū Dogū)” in Hakodate City and this Shirataki assemblage. Its rarity underscores the significant cultural value that Engaru Town proudly holds. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association The excavated stone tools date from the Paleolithic era, long before the Jomon period, approximately 30,000 to 12,000 years ago. That people of the time crafted sharp blades and hunting tools by skillfully processing obsidian testifies to their advanced techniques and wisdom. These items are not merely tools but precious cultural heritage that still convey human ingenuity and the breath of antiquity to us today. What Is Obsidian? The “Volcanic Glass” That Enchanted Ancient Peoples Obsidian is a natural glass formed when magma ejected from a volcano cools rapidly. Because obsidian breaks with fracture points as sharp as a knife, it was an ideal material for tools in ancient times. You can see this obsidian in the video from 0:40. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association The Shirataki sourced obsidian is especially high in quality, distinguished by its jet black luster and a translucent aesthetic. During the Paleolithic era, it was fashioned into knives and arrowheads. Archaeological evidence confirms that it was transported not just across Hokkaido but also to Honshu and Sakhalin, suggesting Shirataki’s role as a hub in ancient wide area trade networks. Even today, its beauty continues to captivate. At Engaru’s Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center, obsidian is on permanently display, allowing visitors to examine it up close, and enjoy its mysterious, distinctive glow as light passes through it. Truly, obsidian is not just stone, but a jewel born from the earth. What sort of place is the Shirataki Geopark Visitor Center? Learn about the natural beauty and enduring history of Engaru, Hokkaido In 2010, the “Shirataki Geopark” was certified by the Japan Geopark Network. A geopark is akin to an “outdoor museum”, a place where you can enjoy learning how the earth was formed, and how life and human culture emerged from it. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association At the heart of it is the “Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center”. Inside, exhibitions showcase the allure of Shirataki obsidian and the formation of the land through volcanic activity. Displays show how obsidian emerges from magma, and how people in the Paleolithic era crafted it into tools through interactive videos and models. The Geotour is held annually from July to October, and allows you to go inside actual geosites accompanied by expert guides to get an intimate look at the Earth's magnificent natural forces firsthand. A must for anyone interested in visiting geosites! The mountaineering tour to Mt. Akaishi, the obsidian’s birthplace, is especially popular. Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center Basic Information 【Address】〒099 0111 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Shirataki 138 1 【Hours】9:00–17:00 (last admission 16:30) 【Closed】Year end & New Year’s holidays 【Admission】Free 【Access】About 15 minutes on foot from JR Shirataki Station, about 5 minutes by car from Shirataki IC 【Official Site】Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center Discover the Engaru Town Buried Cultural Heritage Center, Where National Treasure Obisidian Tools from Shirataki Are On Display The Obsidian Stone Tools Excavated from the Shirataki Archaeological Sites were designated a National Treasure on June 27, 2023 (Reiwa 5). A total of 1,965 items were collectively designated: 1,514 stone tools and 451 sets of fragments for assembly. These artifacts are outstanding in both content and quantity among Japan’s Paleolithic relics, and are considered invaluable and significant even on a global scale. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association At the “Engaru Archaeological Heritage Center,” you can view the display of the National Treasure Obsidian Stone Tools from the Shirataki Archaeological Sites and learn about the process of tool making. The center also offers hands on experiences such as obsidian crafting, making it a perfect place to engage directly with the ancient past. Engaru Town Buried Cultural Heritage Center Basic Information 【Address】〒099 0111 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Shirataki 138 1 (2nd floor of Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center) 【Hours】9:00–17:00 (last admission) 【Closed】Year end & New Year’s holidays 【Admission】Adults: ¥320 (Groups: ¥260) High school students and younger: ¥160 (Groups: ¥130) * For participatory programs, additional learning fees apply: Adults ¥110, High school & younger (including preschoolers) ¥60 【Access】About 15 minutes walk from JR Shirataki Station, about 5 minutes by car from Shirataki IC 【Official Website】Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center How to Best Explore Geosites That Tell the Story of the Earth Within Shirataki Geopark, there are many “geosites”, points of interest where you can experience the landscapes, rocks, and human history shaped by the earth itself. From waterfalls and cliffs to obsidian outcrops and sweeping highland vistas, these are places where nature speaks its story. Shirataki’s geosites aren’t just for sightseeing; they are places where we are invited to wonder how rocks formed, or what life was like for people in ancient times. There are many spots that let you expand your imagination. Be sure to visit as many as you can! No. 8 Stream Outcrop (Obsidian Outcrop) One of Shirataki’s signature geosites, this outcrop represents one of the world’s largest obsidian deposits. The towering clif face, more than 15 meters high, clearly shows layers of obsidian lava, revealing traces of volcanic activity from about 2 million years ago. In Paleolithic times, obsidian was mined here and crafted into knives and arrowheads used in daily life. Visiting the site offers a striking understanding of the connection between humanity and earth, making it an inspiring spot not only for archaeology enthusiasts but also nature lovers. This geosite can be viewed in the video from 1:51. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099 0126 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Shirataki Oku Shirataki 【Viewing Method】Because it lies within national forest, free exploration is not permitted; you must join a tour held by the “Shirataki Geopark Promotion Association.” Summit of Akaishiyama The summit is strewn with large and small pieces of obsidian on its surface, which sparkle under sunlight. It resembles a galaxy spread across the sky. The hue and gleam shift with the angle of light, and each step reveals a different perspective. Geologically unique, tours along the Mt. Akaishi summit route are consistently popular. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Viewing method: Because it lies within national forest, free exploration is not permitted; you must join a tour held by the “Shirataki Geopark Promotion Association.” Ganbō Rock (Inkarushi) Rising about 78 meters above ground, Ganbō Rock, called Inkarushi in Ainu, meaning “place with a good view”, is a symbol of Engaru. The town’s name is derived from this word. Visible from nearly every corner of the town, the rock offers ever-changing perspectives depending on where you view it. According to legend, it was once an Ainu battlefield, lending a dramatic historic dimension to its natural beauty. A climb from base to summit takes only minutes, and the view is breathtaking. Ganbō rock has been recognized as one of Hokkaido’s Top 100 Natural Sites. Ganbō Rock (Inkarushi) is viewable from the video at 2:53. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Nishimachi 1 chōme 【Access】Approximately 5 min by car from JR Engaru Station Tengudaira Observation Point This gentle grassland was formed by a volcanic phenomenon known as “pyroclastic flow.” Behind it stand Tengudake and Hirayama, volcanoes of the Northern Daisetsu range, making for a majestic view. In early morning, a sea of clouds may spread, creating a dreamlike panorama. The observation point is showcased in the video from 2:33. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Shirataki Tengudaira 【Access】Approximately 5 min by car from Roadside Station “Shirataki” Taihei Plateau At the Taihei Plateau, a 360-degree view stretches as far as the eye can see. While the daytime scenery is great, the highlight is the summer night sky, free from any obstructions or artificial lights. Under the full starry sky, many stars appear rapidly, creating an atmosphere that is perfect for couples looking for a romantic outing. Between late May and early October, hay bales dot the fields, adding a quaint rustic charm. It is selected as part of the “Taihei Geopark Road” and included among “Hokkaido’s 100 Roads.” Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Taihei 【Access】About 40 minutes by car from Maruseppu IC Yamabiko Falls Standing about 28 meters tall, Yamabiko falls is notable in that you can view the water from behind, a feature that has earned it the nickname “Back-view falls”. In spring and summer, visitors can enjoy the refreshing spray set against vibrant greenery, while autumn brings a stunning contrast between the colorful foliage and the cascading water. In winter, the fall may freeze entirely, lending a magical ambiance as it transforms into a curtain of ice. With distinct charms for every season, Yamabiko Falls is a spot you’ll never tire of visiting. Yamabiko Falls appears in the video starting at 3:48. Photo: Yamabiko Falls, Engaru, Hokkaido Basic Information 【Address】Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri In winter, vehicle traffic is blocked at a gate about 2 km before the falls’ parking lot. From January through March, a “Yamabiko Falls Night Tour (illumination)” and daytime “Yamabiko Falls Observation Event” are held, during which the gate is temporarily opened. Muri Wind Cave (Murifūketsu) A mysterious geologic formation where cold air blows even in summer. Cold air accumulated underground escapes from cracks, making the surroundings cool even in midsummer. This unique environment allows alpine plants to grow naturally, making it like a “natural refrigerator.” It is a place to experience a minor miracle created by nature, and is recommended as an oasis from the summer heat. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Location】Maruseppu District, Engaru Town Tourist Spots to Enjoy in Engaru | Must-See Highlights in Each Area After experiencing the earth’s history at Shirataki Geopark, why not venture out into the other areas of Engaru? The four districts, Engaru, Shirataki, Maruseppu, and Ikutahara each offer unique attractions, from natural panoramas to cultural experiences. Based on popularity in local tourist association and travel sites, here are recommended must-sees for use in planning your trip. ■ Engaru District｜Spectacular Flower & Nature Spots Even in the town’s central area, nature thrives, and is brightened by seasonal flowers year-round. Home to one of Japan’s largest cosmos gardens and a new roadside station, along with many sights that truly reflect the spirit of Engaru. Cosmos Garden The symbol of tourism in Engaru is the cosmos garden at Taiyō no Oka Engaru Park. Covering a vast 10-hectare area, one of the largest in Japan, around ten million cosmos flowers bloom in the Cosmos Garden, entering their peak between late August and late September, creating a true “carpet of flowers.” About 20 varieties of cosmos are planted in the garden, and pink, white, orange blossoms sway in the wind to make for a natural masterpiece. The flower-picking experience is popular with families, while photographers and social media enthusiasts flock to the gardens for its perfect photo opportunities, especially at sunset when the fields glow. From the garden’s observation deck you can not only view the cosmos field but also gaze at distant mountain ranges. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Taiyō no Oka Engaru Park Taiyō no Oka Engaru Park spans 65 hectares and offers seasonal floral views from spring through autumn. Within, the “Shibazakura Park” area features moss phlox blooms (known as Shibazakura in Japanese), from mid to late May a pink carpet spread across the hill. In early bloom, Ezo cherry blossoms appear, and at peak season combine with simultaneously blooming tulips for a spectacular seasonal display. Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0407 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Marudai 70 1 【Admission】Adults ¥600, Elementary School Students ¥300 (only during cosmos bloom period) 【Hours】9:00–17:00 【Open Season】Late April to early October Taiyō no Oka Engaru Park (Cosmos Garden) Official Site Roadside Station “Engaru Mori-no-Okhotsk”｜A Station Overflowing with Activities Opened in December of Reiwa 1 (2019), Mori-no-Okhotsk attracted attention as Hokkaido’s first roadside station with an integrated ski resort. Adjacent to the Engaru IC on the Asahikawa–Mombetsu Expressway, it serves as the gateway to the Okhotsk region. From spring to autumn, visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, the longest zipline in Japan with a 25% slope, as well as a treetop adventure course. The treetop adventure follows wires and ladders between trees across about 400 m and includes 29 attractions, allowing guests to walk from tree to tree high above the ground. In winter, skiing is available, making Mori-no-Okhotsk a year round tourist destination. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association The high concentration artificial carbonated footbath “Mori-no-Okhotsk Ashiyu” is also popular. The roadside station’s restaurant uses local asparagus and Shirataki potatoes in many dishes. The standout is a black “Geo Curry” inspired by obsidian: a rich black curry containing chunks of meat shaped like obsidian that is as unusual-looking as it is delicious. Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0344 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Nogami 150 1 【Hours】9:00–18:00 【Closed】None Roadside Station Engaru Mori-mo-Okhotsk Official Site ■ Maruseppu District｜Forest Railways & Insect Paradise Deep in the heart of the forest, you’ll find a unique area where Hokkaido’s only forest railway still runs, alongside exhibits of fascinating insects. This is a hands-on destination where both children and adults can enjoy learning and playing together, making it perfect for a family trip! Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori｜Ride the “Amemiya 21” Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori is home to Hokkaido’s last operating forest railway. The steam locomotive, affectionately called “Amemiya 21”, was built in the Taishō era (1912-1926) and is an authentic forest railway engine. The two-kilometer journey through the park takes you slowly into the depths of the woodlands, an exciting experience even for those who aren’t train enthusiasts. From your seat you can enjoy vibrant natural scenery, especially in the autumn. The insect ecology museum also has rare insects that can be observed, and along with enjoying nature at the campsite provides a variety of experiences for all ages. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0213 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri 80 【Open Season】April 29 – late October Engaru Town Official: Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori • Steam locomotive “Amemiya 21” runs within the park from late April to late October (check official site for operating days) • Fare: Adults ¥800, ages 4+ ¥400 Engaru Town Official: Forest Railway Steam Locomotive Amemiya 21 Maruseppu Insect Ecology Museum｜Featuring Insects Donated by Actor Sho Aikawa A museum exhibiting live insects in ecological displays throughout the year. Highlights include the “Butterfly Plaza”, which features tropical butterflies flying freely year-round, and the “Entrance Hall”, where visitors can see live beetles and stag beetles from around the world. The star of the show is the Hercules beetle, the world’s largest beetle species. In the “Aniki no Mori” (Big Brother’s Forest), donated by actor Sho Aikawa, visitors can encounter rare specimens such as the massive Acteon elephant beetle and the dazzling rainbow stag beetle, widely regarded to be the most beautiful beetle in the world. Children and adults alike can become engrossed in the wide variety of fascinating displays. Photo: Hercules beetle Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0213 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri 68 【Closed】Tuesdays, Year end & New Year Engaru Town Official: Maruseppu Insect Ecology Museum ■ Ikutahara District｜Hands On Museums & the World of Art Ikutahara is a place where culture and creativity come alive. From wooden toys to shadow theater, this is the perfect place to relax, explore, and engage with art that sparks your imagination. Chacha World｜A Dreamland of Toys & Shadow Play Step into a museum showcasing wooden toys from around 40 countries! More than 10,000 pieces can be found, from intricate automata to puppets and classic nutcrackers. Toys are more than just displayed. There are numerous areas where visitors can build or play with toys, from puzzles like Cuboro or Capala to mechanical toys or blocks. Children love it, and adults often find themselves charmed as well. Finally, at the woodworking studio “Zevetto”, you can even craft your own toy from natural wood, for a unique personalized keepsake to remember your trip. Photo: Chacha World, Engaru Town Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0701 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Ikutahara 143 4 【Hours】 April–October: 9:30–18:00 November–March: 10:00–17:00 【Closed】 April–October: None November–March: Mondays (if holiday, closed next day) Year end & New Year holidays The woodworking studio “Zevetto” is closed Mondays & Thursdays Chacha World Official Site Seiji Fujishiro Koropokkuru Shadow Play Museum｜A Fantastical World of Shadow & Light This museum permanently exhibits works by the renowned Japanese shadow play artist Seiji Fujishiro. Step inside to immerse yourself in an enchanting world light and shadow bring his creations to life. Around 30 of his works are on permanent display, including the masterwork Kosai Rikuri, “Brilliant Colors”, which encompasses the entire wall of an elevator hall at 9 meters high and 18 meters wide, making it one of the largest shadow works in the world. Photography is prohibited inside, so the only way to experience the magic is to see it with your own eyes. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0701 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Ikutahara 143 4 (co located with Chacha World) Seiji Fujishiro Koropokkuru Shadow Play Museum Hidden Tourist Spots Recommended by Engaru Locals Famous spots are nice, but it’s also worth experiencing the lesser-known charms of Engaru that only locals might know. From tranquil pastures with grazing cows to a railway treasures beloved by railway enthusiasts, and even unique events reflecting the town’s strong ties to the Japan’s Self Defense Force, these offbeat and unique experiences can make your trip especially memorable. Miharashi Farm｜Idyllic Pastoral Scene Typical of Hokkaido On the outskirts of Engaru, Miharashi Farm offers the quintessential Hokkaido landscape of open fields, grazing cattle, and endless blue skies. Especially in summer, the contrast between the vivid green meadows set against the horizon offers a sense of freedom openness that simply cannot be found in the city. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0407 Engaru Town, Marudai Engaru Station｜A Switchback That Enthralls Railway Fans Engaru Station on the JR Sekihoku Main Line is a special station for railway enthusiasts, as it is one of the few stations in Japan that uses a switchback system, where trains must reverse before continuing in a new direction. The station platform offers a close look at this unusual maneuver, attracting observers from across the country. Photo: JR Sekihoku Main Line Engaru Station Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0415 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Iwamidōri Minami 1 3 3 A Self Defense Forces Town Engaru Town hosts the Land Self Defense Force Engaru Garrison and is known as a Self Defense Forces town. Every August, the garrison opens its gates for a festival featuring equipment displays, training exercises and mock battles, offering a rare close-up look at JSDF activities. The warm interaction between the townspeople and service members of the garrison highlights the close relationship between the base and local community, contributing to a unique community atmosphere. Engaru Gourmet & Local Specialties｜Taste the Bounty of the Land No trip is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Engaru’s food culture, rooted in its vast nature and history, offers plenty of distinctive dishes. From creative obsidian themed cuisine to the sweet, hearty “Shirataki Potatoes” grown in volcanic soil, to the crisp asparagus that proclaims the arrival of spring and summmer, each bite captures the essence of Engaru. Be sure to enjoy these special local flavors alongside your sightseeing! Gourmet Inspired by Obsidian Obsidian is a symbol of Engaru, and is celebrated in many creative obsidian-themed dishes. The most popular is the striking black curry at Roadside Station “Engaru Okhotsk-no-Mori.” With the deep black obsidian color of its roux and its chunks of meat shaped to look like obsidian shards, it leaves both a visual and culinary impression. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Shirataki Potatoes｜Brand Potatoes Renowned for Sweetness & Texture Grown in the Shirataki area, “Shirataki Potatoes” benefit from the local climate’s dramatic temperature shifts and rich volcanic soil, resulting in natural sweetness and excellent texture. Particularly the three varieties “Danshaku,” “May Queen,” and “Kita Akari” are famous for their fluffy texture. Around October each year, local restaurants hold the “Engaru Love Fair,” offering a variety of original dishes using Shirataki Potatoes. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Engaru Asparagus｜Green Gift Heralding Spring Asparagus is a signature flavor of Engaru in spring and summer. Nurtured by snowmelt and abundant sunlight, Engaru’s asparagus grows thick, juicy, and sweet. Engaru Asparagus is also commercially known under the brand “Engaru Nyokkīs”. Engaru is notable in that asparagus has not one but two harvest seasons, and the summer harvest, also known as Komorebi Asparagus, meaning “sun-dappled Asparagus”, is especially prized. From July to August, local restaurants host the “Artisanal Summer Harvest Asparagus Fair,” offering original dishes featuring summer asparagus. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Engaru Town Event Calendar｜Festivals for Every Season Throughout the year, Engaru comes alive with seasonal events that showcase the best of the region. From fireworks illuminating summer nights to cosmos festivals with live musical performances and more, these events seamlessly combine nature’s beauty with the warmth and energy of the local community to make memorable moments. Wrapped in a community’s warm atmosphere, these events are sure to add color and excitement to your trip. Taiyō no Oka Cosmos Festa On the first Sunday of September, the “Cosmos Festa” is held at the town’s vast blooming cosmos gardens. Visitors can admire fields of colorful flowers while enjoying various stage performances and entertainment. February 14 is Valentine’s Day, and in Japan, March 14 is “White Day”, while exactly six months later, September 14 is known as “Cosmos Day.” Every year seeds are carefully sown to ensure the flowers will be in full bloom for this special date. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Engaru Ganbō Summer Festival Held in July, this summer tradition features music parades, the impressive “1,000 Person Dance, and various other performances. vHeld in July, this summer tradition features music parades, the impressive “1,000 Person Dance, and various other performances. Many food stalls with local specialties open, and the streets are filled with energy, giving you a chance to feel the town’s vibrancy and festive atmosphere. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Recommended Lodging and Hot Springs in Engaru | How to Enjoy the Ultimate in Relaxation Engaru offers a range of lodging options such as Mauresan sō and North King, that run the gamut from forest resorts to cozy onsen inns. Many feature distinctive facilities such as alkaline hot springs, prized for their skin-softening qualities. After a long day of sightseeing or outdoor excursions, they soothe fatigue, help you recharge, and make your stay even more memorable. Forest Resort “Mauresan sō” at Maruseppu Onsen Nestled in the forest of Maruseppu, this resort hotel with its striking triangular roofs and white walls offers hot springs that are both gentle on skin and retain warmth well. The resort has a chic “Ezo Modern,” atmosphere, featuring warm wooden interiors with reading spaces brimming with books and relaxation lounges throughout. Lodging plans vary greatly, with six types of rooms including both Japanese and Western styles and special rooms with private baths, with a total of 25 rooms available. Nearby, three cottages made of Finnish pine offer their own private hot spring, giving the visitors the feeling of staying in a secluded villa. Meals feature fusion courses that make use of seasonal local ingredients such as fresh sashimi, beef from near Okhotsk, handmade soba, allowing visitors to fully savor Hokkaido’s bounty. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】099-0213 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri 172 Day Use Hot Spring “Pokke no Yu” Opened in September 2019, this day use hot spring features a soothing alkaline spring that warms easily and is known for leaving skin feeling soft and silky. Particularly noteworthy is the wood-fired Finnish sauna, a rare sight even in Hokkaido. Many visitors come just to experience it. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0213 Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri 177 “Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori Campground” Surrounded by Nature Equipped with auto sites, bungalows, and free camping areas, this campground is perfect for combining river activities with forest exploration. Suitable for families or solo campers, it offers a more rustic, immersive way method of experiencing Engaru’s natural beauty Under a blanket of stars, gather around a campfire then awaken to fresh air and birdsong, for a unique alternative to hotel or onsen stays with its own type of luxury. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0213 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri 80 Distinctive Lodgings by District Lodgings near Engaru Station Several hotels within walking distance of the station make ideal bases for tourists and business travelers alike. Shirataki District “Makiba Hokkaido Taro chan House” A pet friendly entire house rental. With a spacious dog run, sauna, and even horseback riding, it’s a rare facility. It’s popular with families and dog lovers wanting to enjoy Hokkaido travel with pets. Ikutahara District “Ikutahara Onsen Hotel North King” A lodging with flowing natural hot springs, day-use bathing, a bedrock sauna, and its own restaurant. Surrounded by tranquility, it’s perfect for relaxed bathing in a peaceful atmosphere. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Access to Engaru Town & How to Tour the Town Engaru, where you can immerse yourself in the great outdoors of Hokkaido, is accessible by air, train, or car. Flights from Memanbetsu, Asahikawa, or Okhotsk Mombetsu airports, taking the JR Sekihoku Main Line, or driving along scenic car routes are all viable options. Because the town’s attractions are spread over a wide area, renting a car is recommended for efficient sightseeing. Below is a quick guide to reaching Engaru and getting around. Access Methods to Engaru Town 【By Air】 The air gateways to Engaru Town are Memanbetsu Airport, Asahikawa Airport, and Okhotsk Mombetsu Airport. • From Memanbetsu: approximately 1h30m to 2h by car • From Asahikawa: about 2h to 2h30m by car • From Okhotsk Mombetsu: about 40–50 minutes by car While Kitami Bus links from Memanbetsu exist, buses are limited, so renting a car is more convenient for sightseeing. 【By JR】 Engaru is served by the JR Sekihoku Main Line, plus stations at Shirataki, Maruseppu, and Ikutahara. Use express or local trains. (At JR Engaru Station) • From Sapporo: ~3h30m via the “Okhotsk” limited express • From Asahikawa: about 2h • From Kitami: about 1h30m by local train 【By Car】 Driving gives you freedom and is ideal for sightseeing. Engaru lies along National Route 39, with good access from major cities. • From Sapporo: ~280 km (about 4h) • From Asahikawa: ~100 km (about 1h30m) • From Kitami: ~40 km (about 45 min) Many roadside stations and scenic spots lie along the route, turning the drive itself into part of the journey. 【In Town Sightseeing】 Because Engaru’s attractions are widely dispersed, a rental car is the most efficient way to tour. Approximate travel times between districts: • Engaru district ⇔ Shirataki district: ~30 km (about 40 min by car) • Engaru district ⇔ Maruseppu district: ~20 km (about 30 min by car) • Engaru district ⇔ Ikutahara district: ~15 km (about 20 min by car) Summary of Engaru Town’s Attractions｜A Call to a Special Hokkaido Experience Engaru Town is a special place in Hokkaido where Japan’s oldest National Treasure whispers ancient memories, Shirataki Geopark tells the earth’s story, and majestic nature shifts through the seasons in harmonious procession. Once formed by merging three towns and a village, this vast town encompasses four unique districts: Engaru, Shirataki, Maruseppu, and Ikutahara each offering different emotional experiences. Ten million cosmos blooms, obsidian tools of the late Paleolithic era, the nostalgic whistle of a forest railway winding through the trees, serene hot springs and camping under pure blue skies, and the heartfelt smiles of the people you will meet are all treasures awaiting your visit. Feel the timeless romance exerted by obsidian’s jet black luster. Walk geosites and listen to the earth’s pulse. At night, immerse yourself in the starlit sky, all in Engaru. Let this special experience leave a lasting imprint on your next Hokkaido journey. Japan’s oldest National Treasure and miraculous natural landscapes await you in Engaru. See you there! Official Sites Engaru Town Official Engaru Town Tourism Association Information in this article was current as of September 2025, prepared under the supervision of the Engaru Town Tourism Association. 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Autumn Leaves on Mt. Adatara, Fukushima: Video Introduction Photo：Kurogane Lodge and autumn leaves on Mt. Adatara, Fukushima Prefecture This video, titled "World's First｜Autumn Leaves on Mt. Adatara｜6K Video" (世界初 紅葉の安達太良山 6K撮影), was uploaded by "International Drone Association" (国際ドローン協会). This 6K video captures the beauty of the autumn leaves of Mt. Adatara as seen from the sky using a drone. Enjoy the incredible views of Mt. Adatara that you simply cannot see from the ground. [Video] 0:32 - The Colorful Autumn Leaves on Mt. Adatara Mt. Adatara Overview Photo：Mt. Adatara, Fukushima Prefecture Located in central Fukushima Prefecture, Mt. Adatara is an active volcano with an elevation of approximately 1,700 meters and has been selected as one of the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains. The beautiful Mt. Adatara, which appears in ancient texts and classic Japanese movies, is well known both inside and outside of the prefecture. The ropeway makes it easy for beginner hikers to reach the summit, while intermediate and advanced courses are also available. From spring to fall, the mountain is crowded with hikers enjoying the beautiful scenery. Mt. Adatara Ropeway & Parking Information Photo：Mt. Adatara Ropeway, Fukushima Prefecture Adatara Kogen Ski Resort is located at the foot of Mt. Adatara, and there is a ropeway station at the foot of the mountain near the ski resort and a free parking lot that can accommodate up to 1,500 vehicles. A 10-minute ropeway ride will take you to the summit station of Mt. Yakushi (1,350 meters above sea level). From there, it takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes on foot to reach the summit of Mt. Adatara. During autumn, when the leaves change color, there are days when there are lines to board the ropeway, and depending on how crowded it is, you may also have to pay for parking. Because of this, we recommend doing some research before visiting. The ropeway costs 1,200 yen (one-way) and 2,000 yen (round-trip) for adults, and 900 yen (one-way) and 1,500 yen (round-trip) for children. In addition to group discounts and discounts for persons with disabilities, there are also special discount tickets available exclusively on the ropeway's website and discount packages for hot springs and Tohoku Safari Park, so be sure to check the Adatara Ropeway website for details. When to Visit to See the Autumn Leaves on Mt. Adatara Photo：The view from Yakushidake Panorama Park, Fukushima Prefecture Mt. Adatara, famous for its autumn foliage, usually attracts many tourists and climbers, as well as many photographers who come to take pictures of the spectacular scenery. The best time to view the autumn leaves is from late September through October. The best place to take pictures of the spectacular autumn foliage is Yakushidake Panorama Park, located just beyond the ropeway summit station. The park has a 300-meter promenade where visitors can relax and enjoy the spectacular panoramic view of the autumn leaves. Hiking On Mt. Adatara – Trails, Hiking Time, Etc. Photo：The summit of Mt. Adatara, Fukushima Prefecture Mt. Adatara is a popular mountain for hiking and trekking with even beginner hikers due to its relative ease. The recommended hiking course is the approximately 9-km long, 4-hour course that starts from the ropeway summit station. Mt. Adatara Ropeway Summit Station (ロープウェイ山頂駅) → Senjo-daira Trail (仙女平分岐) → Adatara Summit (安達太良山頂上) → Mine no Tsuji (峰の辻) → Kurogane Lodge (くろがね小屋) → Seshitaira Trail (勢至平分岐) → Okudake Trailhead (奥岳登山口). There is a walking trail near Mt. Adatara Ropeway Station, but it has been closed for the time being due to heavy rainfall during the summer of 2022. Mt. Adatara is great for hiking during the fall, but also during the summer and spring as well, so consider visiting during different seasons to enjoy the various scenery! Hot Springs Near Mt. Adatara Photo：Kurogane Lodge and winter on Mt. Adatara, Fukushima Prefecture Kurogane Lodge, a mountain lodge on Mt. Adatara, has a hot spring bath with free-flowing hot-spring water, which is popular among climbers. It's available for day-trip bathing, but as of 2023 Kurogane Lodge is under reconstruction and is therefore unavailable; it's scheduled to be reopened in 2025, so be sure to visit when it's completed. There is also a day-trip hot spring facility called "Adatarayama Okudake no Yu" near the ropeway station at the foot of the mountain, which is used by many hikers in the summer and skiers in the winter. Both Kurogane Lodge and Adatarayama Okudake no Yu have unique acidic springs that are said to be good for relieving fatigue, fighting against nerve and muscle pain, and also help beautify the skin. It's a good place to relax and heal your body after a day of hiking to see the autumn foliage. Admission is 700 yen for adults (junior high school students and older) and 500 yen for children (ages 4 to elementary school students). Skiing on Mt. Adatara Photo：Ski tracks in the snow on Mt. Adatara, Fukushima Prefecture During the winter (December - March), the Mt. Adatara Ropeway transforms into Adatara Kogen Ski Resort. Adatara Kogen Ski Resort features 8 courses and relatively cheap lift tickets. Pricing (1-day Pass/Weekdays): Adults (Junior-high school students and older): 3,500 yen, Seniors (60+): 3,100 yen, Children (Elementary school students and younger): 2,200 yen. Pricing (1-day Pass/Weekends): Adults (Junior-high school students and older): 4,300 yen, Seniors (60+): 3,800 yen, Children (Elementary school students and younger): 2,600 yen. Besides the passes listed above, there are a number of other tickets available to help fit your itinerary, plans, and budget. Summary of Mt. Adatara Photo：Winter on Mt. Adatara, Fukushima Prefecture Mt. Adatara is a mountain that attracts climbers not only during the fall when the leaves change color, but throughout the entire year. In summer, an illumination event is held at Adatara Kogen Ski Resort, making it a popular summer spot. ※In 2022, the illumination was held from July 30 to September 19, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm each day. A chain of mountains and beautiful blue skies... Mt. Adatara is a place you'll want to visit again and again to discover the breathtaking scenery in each season. 【TripAdvisor】Mt. Adatara