ドローンで撮影された絶景の長野県霧ヶ峰高原ビーナスラインとは こちらの動画は「Yatsugatake21_4K_Japan」が公開した「4K 絶景ドローン「初夏のビーナスライン 霧ヶ峰高原」癒し空撮自然映像 Drone Japan Nature Relaxation Venus line」です。 長野県の霧ヶ峰高原ビーナスラインをドローンの空撮で捉えた映像になっています。 長野県霧ヶ峰高原ビーナスラインとは、八ヶ岳中信高原国定公園 の高原地帯を走るツーリングにはもってこいのドライブルート。 全長76kmにも及び、蓼科高原・白樺湖・車山高原・霧ヶ峰高原・八島高原・美ヶ原高原といった森林地帯や高原地帯の四季を望むことのできる絶景スポットです。 平均の標高は1,400ｍで最高では1,920ｍにもなります。 野県霧ヶ峰高原ビーナスラインのおすすめルート 長野県霧ヶ峰高原ビーナスラインの中でおすすめのルートは白樺高原から霧ヶ峰のルートです。 これは白樺湖から出発し、車山展望リフトで車山山頂へ。 こちらでは、天気が良ければ八ヶ岳連峰や富士山まで望むことができます。 また紅葉やニッコウキスゲなどの草花も楽しむことができます。 その先には霧ヶ峰富士見台があります。 こちらでは食事処やお土産屋などの売店も充実しています。 最後にはレストラン「チャップリン」でソースカツ丼やカツカレーを楽しめます。 長野県霧ヶ峰高原ビーナスラインには人気のドライブインも 長野県霧ヶ峰高原ビーナスラインの中心には人気のドライブインである霧ヶ峰高原ビーナスラインドライブイン霧の駅があります。 ここでは長野県の様々なお土産を買うことができ、駐車場のそばには八島湿原や三峰大展望台・霧ヶ峰自然保護センターもあります。 動画では3:31より美しい自然の景色を見ることができます。 長野県霧ヶ峰高原ビーナスラインから諏訪湖へ 新日本三大夜景やサンセットをご覧になることのできる立石公園も霧ヶ峰高原ビーナスラインの見どころです。 映画「君の名は。」のモデルになったと言われるスポットとしても有名です。 長野県霧ヶ峰高原ビーナスラインでもお参りを 長野県霧ヶ峰高原ビーナスラインのなかには諏訪大社上社本宮・諏訪大社下社秋宮といった神社にも触れるができます。 諏訪大社上社本宮は国内最古の神社の一つで、八ヶ岳や諏訪平などを望むことができます。 また画家の岡本太郎さんが絶賛した万治の石仏という石像もあります。 こちらは諏訪大社下社春宮から徒歩5分ほどの場所にあるので、諏訪大社下社春宮のお参りを終えたら是非訪れてみましょう。 その他長野県霧ヶ峰高原ビーナスラインの旅行スポット 長野県霧ヶ峰高原ビーナスラインではこれら以外にも様々な施設に楽しむことができます。 国指定重要文化財である片倉館、県下最大級のガラスミュージアムであるSUWAガラスの里、400年の歴史がある高島城、無料で足湯につかれる湖畔公園足湯と豊富な温泉があります。 自然と観光を楽しめる長野県霧ヶ峰高原ビーナスライン紹介まとめ 大自然の景色を楽しみながらドライブできる長野県霧ヶ峰高原ビーナスラインをみなさまも楽しんでください！

秋田・湯沢の「小安峡・川原毛地獄・秋ノ宮」の動画について 「JAPAN GEOGRAPHIC」が公開した「JG 4K HDR 秋田 湯沢の地熱地域 小安峡/河原毛地獄/秋ノ宮 Yuzawa Geothermal Area,Akita」は、秋田県湯沢市の地熱地帯を紹介している動画です。 峡谷の中で迫力ある大噴湯を見られる小安峡。 灰白色の溶岩に覆われた川原毛地獄。 秘湯と一緒に紅葉を堪能できる秋ノ宮。 それぞれで美しい景色を楽しめる魅力あるスポットです。 こちらの記事では、秋田県湯沢市の小安峡・川原毛地獄・秋ノ宮の魅力を動画と共に紹介します。 秋田県湯沢市の地熱地域にある小安峡とは？ 秋田県湯沢市にある小安峡は、雄物川支流、皆瀬川上流にある峡谷です。 小安峡では迫力ある大噴湯を見ることができ、人気の観光スポットになっています。 98℃にもなる蒸気が噴出する光景は必見ですよ。 こちらの動画の0:17より見ることができます。 また小安峡は紅葉の名所としても知られており、その景観を目当てにたくさんの観光客が訪れます。 交通アクセスも湯沢駅前からバスが出ており、宿泊場所も充実しています。 「日本秘湯を守る宿」のひとつに選ばれている阿部旅館や囲炉裏で食事を楽しめる多郎兵衛は、昔ながらの雰囲気を味わえる素晴らしい旅館です。 家族や恋人との旅行にぜひ利用してください。 レストランなどグルメを楽しめる施設も充実。 ランチに名物の稲庭うどんやソフトクリームを食べて楽しい観光にしてください。 秋田県湯沢市の地熱地域にある川原毛地獄とは？ 秋田県湯沢市にある川原毛地獄は、灰白色が特徴の噴気地帯です。 標高は約800mで草木が生えない灰色の山肌があたり一面に広がっています。 いたるところから蒸気が吹き出し、硫黄臭の匂いが漂っています。 川原毛地獄を観光する際に、必ず訪れたいスポットが大湯滝。 滝そのものが温泉という珍しい温泉滝です。 滝壺や渓流が天然の露天風呂になっており、水着を着用して入浴できます。 駐車場から遊歩道で徒歩20分ほどの場所にあります。 また、地元の人が大切にしている行事「川原毛地蔵祭」もおすすめ。 秋田県湯沢市の地熱地域にある秋ノ宮とは？ 秋田県最古の温泉地として知られる秋ノ宮。 とても落ち着いた雰囲気のあるスポットで多くの観光客に愛されています。 栗駒山のふもとにある役内川のほとりの景色は、とても美しく目を奪われますよ。 秋ノ宮温泉郷の「湯ノ又温泉」「鷹の湯温泉」「稲住温泉」はどれも泉質のいい名湯。 日帰りで温泉を楽しむのもよし、旅館に宿泊してゆったりつかるのもよし。 秋ノ宮温泉郷で体をしっかり癒し充実した旅行にしてください。 秋田・湯沢の「小安峡・川原毛地獄・秋ノ宮」紹介記事のまとめ 秋田県湯沢市の小安峡・川原毛地獄・秋ノ宮の魅力をたっぷりと紹介しました。 美しい景色を楽しめるインスタ映えスポットや温泉を楽しめます。

秋田・岩手の観光スポット「八幡平の紅葉」の動画について/h2> 「JAPAN GEOGRAPHIC」が公開した「JG 4K 秋田/岩手 八幡平の紅葉 Akita/Iwate Hachimantai」は、秋田・岩手の自然の景色を見られる八幡平を紹介している動画です。 八幡平の雄大な自然の中で楽しめる温泉や紅葉が紹介されています。 秋田・岩手の観光スポットの八幡平とは？ 秋田・岩手の観光スポットの八幡平は、奥羽山脈北部にある山郡です。 日本百名山に選ばれている八幡平は、手軽な登山・ハイキング・トレッキングコースを楽しめる名所。 1956年には十和田八幡平国立公園に指定され、多くの観光客が訪れる人気のスポットです。 八幡平は、広い高原に火山起源の小さなピークや無数の沼、湿原が点在します。 9千～5千年前に発生した水蒸気爆発によって出来た火口に水がたまり、「めがね沼」「八幡沼」「ガマ沼」といった火山沼が形成されました。 また、八幡平は素晴らしい宿泊施設が充実しています。 「マウンテンホテル」「八幡平ハイツ」「ロイヤルホテル」などがおすすめ。 ホテルで温泉やグルメを楽しみ、充実した旅行にしましょう。 秋田・岩手の観光エリアである八幡平の人気スポット 数多くの見どころがある八幡平ですが、アスピーテラインの紅葉は外せません。 全国でも有数の美しさを誇る紅葉を堪能できます。 ゴルフを楽しみたい人には「八幡平カントリークラブ」。 日帰り登山を楽しみたい人は「八幡平山」。 鏡沼の雪解けの変わった風景を見られる「八幡平ドラゴンアイ」。 美しい花々を鑑賞したい人は「お花畑」がおすすめ。 ほかにも、「藤助森」「源太森」「見返り峠」「安比高原」「八幡平樹海ライン」「岩手山焼走り溶岩流」など見どころがたくさんあります。 秋田・岩手の観光スポット「八幡平の紅葉」の記事のまとめ 温泉、紅葉、登山とさまざまな魅力がある八幡平。 温泉や紅葉を楽しむのはもちろん、気軽に登れる登山はおすすめ。 八幡平登山口ルートや茶臼岳登山口ルートは初心者におすすめのルートなので、ぜひ挑戦してみてください！

This video, titled "Tokyo Imperial Palace Part I - 皇居 - 4K Ultra HD," was released by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." What you see in this video is the Imperial Palace, the symbol of Japan. In the Edo period it was the residence of the Tokugawa shogun, but in the first year of the Meiji period it became the residence of the Emperor and Empress. Inside the palace, the Imperial Household Agency and its related buildings, the Momijiyama Sericulture, Tokagakudo, and the Nippon Budokan are all open to the public. You can enjoy nature from season to season in the middle of Tokyo, and Chidorigafuchi in particular attracts many tourists every year as it is one of the best places for cherry blossoms in Japan. On the Second Day of New Year's, the Emperor and Empress Address Do a Congratulatory Visit to the Imperial Palace and the Emperor Gives a Speech to the Public.

This video, titled "Traveling Japan with only an instant translator | ili," was released by "internationally ME." The translator shown in this video is called ili, and it's a very handy tool for traveling abroad. You don't need to be connected to the internet at all, and it's a one-way translator that automatically translates the words you speak into the language you want to translate. It's small enough to fit in your pocket, and can be used with Japanese, Chinese, English, and Korean. In the video you can see someone using ili in Asakusa, Japan. Be sure to check it out!

This video, titled "Yuenchi, Realized in Beppu｜Playground Equipment to Utilize Hot Springs, Until the 31st" (別府で「湯～園地」実現 温泉活用の遊具、３１日まで), was released by "KyodoNews." Beppu, Oita Prefecture is one of Japan's most popular hot spring resorts, and they have just opened a new section called Yuenchi in the area for a limited time. Beppu Rakutenchi is an amusement park where you can ride amusement park attractions while enjoying hot springs. The city of Beppu brought hot water from Beppu Onsen into the amusement park and remodeled the attraction. People who visited the amusement park cheered as they rode merry-go-rounds and roller coasters while soaking in the springs.

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

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.

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

Autumn Leaves at Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park: Video Introduction This video, titled "[Official] Autumn Foliage at Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park" (【公式】国営武蔵丘陵森林公園　園内の紅葉の様子), was uploaded by "Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park" (国営武蔵丘陵森林公園). The video features aerial footage taken via drone showing the beautiful autumn leaves of Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park. The mascots Shin-kun and Rin-chan, as well as a pirate ship, welcome visitors at the central entrance plaza, and from there they pass through Yamada Onuma Pond, where many birds gather, to the beautifully colored maple garden, followed by an installation with beautiful artwork made of bamboo and wood, created by the Sogetsu School of Ikebana. The beautiful 3-minute video is sure to captivate. Be sure to check out the video before reading further! Attractions & Things to Do at Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park Photo：Activities at Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park, Japan's first national park, was developed in Hiki Hills (比企北丘陵) in Saitama Prefecture as part of the Meiji Centennial Anniversary Temple Project. Its vast site approximately 755 acres. In addition to the magnificent natural beauty of the park, visitors will enjoy Pompoko Mountain, the largest outdoor trampoline in Japan, an athletic course, and a dog run where dogs can run around freely. There are also other facilities and areas for the whole family to enjoy, such as a 17-kilometer bike path for enjoying nature, orienteering, and Segway tours through the park's natural surroundings. Due to the vast size of the park, there are four entrances (West, North, South, and Central), and each entrance offers a variety of different facilities. There are also restaurants, stores, and other paid facilities, but admission is free for children of junior high school age and younger, and ¥450 for adults. The Best Time to See the Autumn Leaves at Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park Photo：Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park, Saitama Prefecture Beautiful autumn leaves can be seen at various places at Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park. One of the most famous spots is the maple garden. About 500 maple trees of some 20 varieties are gathered here, and the red, yellow, orange, and even somewhat pink colors make it a popular spot. [Video] 1:06 - Autumn Leaves at the Maple Garden From mid-late November, when the autumn leaves are at their best, an illumination event called Momiji Minaito, which lights up the autumn leaves, is held. The park is brightly illuminated, creating a fantastic atmosphere, and visitors can enjoy a unique nighttime views. Also, at the same time, an art exhibition using bamboo and wood by the Sogetsu School of Ikebana, is held. [Video] 2:02 - An Installation by the Sogetsu School of Ikebana Enjoy art and beautiful autumn leaves in one place. More Than Just Autumn Leaves! Information on Seasonal Flowers at Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park! Photo：Blue skies and nemophila at Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park is home to beautiful flowers in every season, and the most popular spring flowers blooming from March to May are the nemophila (baby blue eyes). The West Gate Plaza Flower Garden, where the nemophila bloom, is covered with baby-blue flowers. False anemone and sunflowers can be seen blooming from June to August. Visitors can enjoy the yellow, white, red, and chocolate-colored sunflowers. The anemone should be viewed up close in order to appreciate the beauty of the pretty white flowers. From September to November, visitors can enjoy cockscomb and cosmos, which are representative of autumn in Japan. Cockscomb flowers are characterized by their vivid red, yellow, and pink colors. Cosmos, a representative flower of autumn in Japan, can be seen in the herb garden. During the colder months from December to February, hellebores and other flowers are can be seen in full bloom. Enjoy the dignified beauty of flowers in winter. Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park is a place of tasteful art installations where beautiful flowers bloom throughout the year. We recommend visiting the park in different seasons to see the various flowers. Illuminations and Other Events at Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park Photo：An illumination event at Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park In addition to the outstanding autumn leaves, many events are held at Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park. Mori no Halloween (Halloween Night in the Forest) features Halloween decorations, and in December there's a "Starlight Illumination," where the park is decorated with approximately 550,000 illuminated bulbs. Both of these events allow visitors to stroll through the park at night, enjoying the fantastic nighttime scenery. Other physical activities, such as walking events in the forest and marathons are also held, so be sure to check these out as well. Summary of Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park is a national park where beautiful autumn leaves can be seen in the fall. Unfortunately, no amount of video can do it justice, so we recommend coming and seeing it for yourself! In addition to the autumn leaves at Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park, visitors can admire a variety of flowers and experience physical exercise while surrounded by nature. Playing outdoors with your family will be a fun and memorable experience. If you're coming to Saitama, be sure to check out Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park! 【Official Website】Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park｜The First National Park in Japan 【TripAdvisor】Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park

Video introduction of "Sengokuhara Susuki Meadow" in Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture This video, titled "Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Field - Kanagawa - 4K Ultra HD" (Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Field - Kanagawa - 仙石原すすき草原 - 4K Ultra HD), was uploaded by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." Enjoy the beautiful 4K visuals and the sound of pampas grass swaying in the wind as if you were standing in the pampas grass field of Sengokuhara. Sengokuhara – A Famous Place for Viewing Pampas Grass in Hakone, Kanagawa Photo：The pampas grass field of Sengokuhara, Hakone The pampas grass field of Sengokuhara is located on Mt. Hakone in Kanagawa Prefecture, in Japan's Kanto region. It is one of the "Top 50 Scenic Spots in Kanagawa" and "Top 100 Places to View Flowers in Kanagawa," and is well known for its pampas grass. At the foot of Mt. Daigatake, which was formed by the eruption of Mt. Hakone, lies a field of pampas grass, and in autumn, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of golden plumes rippling in the wind. The fantastic scenery of the Sengokuhara pampas grass field has attracted a lot of attention and draws a large number of tourists every year. The Field of Pampas Grass in Hakone – When to See the Breathtaking Autumnal Scenery Photo：The walking path through the pampas grass field of Sengokuhara, Hakone The golden pampas grass in the field in Sengokuhara is at its best from late September to early November. The lush green tips of pampas grass turn a silvery-white, and as autumn deepens, the tips open up and turn a pale golden color. The beautiful golden color of the pampas grass field, which can only be seen during autumn in Japan, is a distinctive sight of autumn in Hakone. The main walking route for the pampas grass field is to go straight along the path and back, which takes about 30 minutes round-trip. The path through the grassy field is great for taking photos as well. [Video] 0:05 - Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Field Walking Path At the midpoint of the path, visitors can enjoy a lovely collaboration of mountains and the soft tips of the pampas grass. The view from the small hill in the middle of the path is another nice spot, perfect for taking pictures. The best times to visit are in the morning and at dusk, when there are few people around. The photogenic golden pampas grass glistening in the sunlight and the setting sun are guaranteed to be make for awesome photos for Instagrammers and photographers alike. The Pampas Grass Field of Sengokuhara During Summer Sengokuhara's pampas grass field is of course famous for its pampas grass in autumn, but other seasons also have their own unique charms. In early summer, around June, visitors can enjoy the lush green landscape of the meadow that has grown back after the annual burn in the spring. The sight of the newly sprouted green pampas grass swaying in the wind is a different aesthetic than that of autumn. The green pampas grass and blue skies are a perfect contrast, and photographers/Instagrammers can take some delightful photos during this time as well. Spring at Sengokuhara – A Fiery Event on the Pampas Grass Field In the pampas grass field of Sengokuhara, an event called Yamayaki is held from mid to late March every year. Yamayaki, meaning "Mountain burning," is an annual event to maintain the pampas grass field. By burning the dead grass, it prevents the growth of weeds in the field and helps to return the meadow to its youthful appearance. The event is held in the mild spring weather, and spectator seating is available as well. The crackling fire and the intense heat are definitely worth a trip to Hakone. How to Get to Sengokuhara's Pampas Grass Field + Parking & Lunch Photo：Hakone-Yumoto Station To get to Sengokuhara's pampas grass field, take the Hakone Tozan Bus bound for Togendai from Hakone-Yumoto Station and get off at Sengokogen (~30 mins). If going by car, free parking and paid parking are available in the immediate vicinity of the pampas grass field. A temporary free parking lot is also available from September 1 to November 30 every year during the pampas grass' peak viewing period. For lunch, we recommend trying the soba restaurant Hoshinoan (そば処 穂し乃庵, Soba-dokoro Hoshinoan) by the Sengokuhara pampas grass field. In the midst of the refreshing pampas grass field, you can enjoy the seasonal flavors and unique dishes made from the best ingredients while gazing out at the field of pampas grass. Summary of Sengokuhara's Pampas Grass Field The area around the Sengokuhara pampas grass field is home to numerous tourist attractions, including art museums, and its hot springs, characterized by their cloudy white water, are also popular. In particular, the hot springs of the Hakone Ichinoyu Group, which currently has 10 facilities in Hakone, are well known as affordable accommodations in Hakone, and feature dreamy open-air guest rooms as well. Let the warmth of the hot springs wash away your fatigue. Sengokuhara's pampas grass field is easily accessible from central Tokyo, as it's located just a short 2-hour and 15-minute bus ride from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo via the Odakyu Hakone Express Bus. If taking this route, be sure to get off at the Sengokukogen bus stop. Enjoy a visit to see the spectacular golden landscapes of autumn in Hakone! 【TripAdvisor】Sengokuhara https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298171-d1514732-Reviews-Sengokuhara-Hakone_machi_Ashigarashimo_gun_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Norikura Kogen" in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, Autumn Foliage Video Introduction This video, titled "Autumn Colors in Japan｜Autumn at Norikura Kogen" (日本の紅葉　Autumn Colors in Japan　乗鞍高原の秋), was uploaded by "beaphoto1. The video introduces the spiritual and ephemeral autumn scenery of Norikura Kogen (Norikura Highlands), a place visited by large numbers of people every year for its legendary autumnal colors. The beauty on display is such that you'll forget all about time for the entirety of the 1-minute video. We're sure that when you're done watching you'll be itching to visit Norikura Kogen! Where is Norikura Kogen? Basic Tips for Sightseers Photo：Autumn leaves at Norikura Kogen, Nagano Prefecture Located in Matsumoto, Nagano in Japan's Koshin'etsu region, and on the eastern side of the Northern Alps' southernmost area, the Norikura Kogen highlands are a popular sightseeing spot, and are lively in all seasons, with visitors making the trip for a variety of reasons. In the summer, you can escape the heat while camping or stay at one of the bed and breakfasts in the area. As summer gives way to fall, mountain climbing becomes a popular pastime, and in the winter, skiing and other winter sports can be enjoyed here. Also, the hot springs bursting forth from several locations in the area can be enjoyed no matter the season. Furthermore, if you're looking to get your fill of the great outdoors, no trip to Japan's Northern Alps would be complete without a visit to Norikura Kogen Holiday Village (休暇村乗鞍高原, Kyuka-mura Norikura Kogen). Situated 1600m above sea-level, it's perfect for stargazing and early morning walks, and there are even activities for enjoying nature with fellow travelers that anyone can participate in at their leisure. The views of the night sky here are truly unforgettable. Take your time and enjoy the boundless nature of Japan's Northern Alps at Norikura Kogen Holiday Village! When Is the Best Time to See the Autumn Foliage at Norikura Kogen? Photo：Ichinose Park, Norikura Kogen Autumn means autumn leaves, and the best time to see those at Norikura Kogen is from mid-late October. During this period, sightseers converge on the area for a glimpse of Norikura Kogen's autumn foliage. At one of the most famous spots, Ichinose Park (一の瀬園地, Ichinose-enchi), the reflection of Mt. Norikura (乗鞍岳, Norikura-dake) on the water's surface contrasts with the autumn leaves to create a spiritual atmosphere. [Video] 0:10 - Autumn Leaves and the Reflection of Mt. Norikura Even the more indoorsy people will find themselves enjoying hiking around Ichinose Park. Take a leisurely walk and admire the white birch forests, Zengoro Falls, Organ Bridge (オルガン橋, orugan-bashi) which spans the mountain stream, and the seasonal flowers that can be found in the area. The giant maple tree shown in the video is popular with photographers as a superb photo spot, so don't forget your camera! [Video] 0:31 - Giant Maple Tree Norikura Skyline/Echo Line aka Paradise in the Sky Photo：Norikura Skyline, Korikura Kogen You'll feel like you're coasting through the sky at Norikura Skyline/Echo Line. The word "Skyline" makes it sound like somewhere you'd go by car, but since this is a place to enjoy nature as well as gorgeous views while gliding through the sky, personal vehicles are prohibited in order to protect the environment and prevent traffic. If you're planning to visit by car, you'll need to switch to a bus at some point. For further details, check the Hida-Norikura Tourism Association's (飛騨乗鞍観光協会, Hida Norikura kanko kyokai) home page. Summary of Sightseeing at Norikura Kogen Norikura Kogen is brimming with fantastical views, including autumn leaves and giant maples, and has come to be known as a Paradise in the Sky. It's great for instagrammers and photographers alike, too. Why don't you add Norikura Highland to the candidate sites when you travel to Nagano? Norikura Kogen is also rife with facilities, including day-trip hot spring facilities, but there's so much to see and do that we encourage you to stay the night and take your time enjoying the superb views. So let go of some of that stress and charge your batteries with the help of Mother Nature. [TripAdvisor] Norikura Kogen https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298118-d1372942-Reviews-Norikura_Kogen-Matsumoto_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html

Autumn Leaves at Shirakoma Pond, Nagano, Japan: Video Introduction Photo：Autumn leaves at Shirakoma Pond, Nagano Prefecture This video, titled "[4K] Mysteriously Spectacular Views｜Autumn Leaves at Shirakoma Pond - (shot on BMPCC6K)" ([4K] 神秘の絶景 天空の湖 白駒池の紅葉 - Autumn Leaves at Shirakoma Pond - (shot on BMPCC6K)), was uploaded by "AQUA Geo Graphic." Shirakoma Pond in Nagano Prefecture is known for its beautiful autumn foliage. The reflection of the colorful trees on the surface of the lake is so beautiful you'd only expect to see it in a painting. Shirakoma Pond is blessed with abundant nature, and is a popular location for hiking as well. The pond is a popular tourist spot that attracts many visitors throughout the year because of its wonderful scenery that changes with the seasons, especially during autumn. Enjoy the beautiful contrast of between the green, yellow, and fiery red autumn leaves reflected on the mirror-like surface of the lake in this 2-minute long 4K video. Where is Shirakoma Pond? Location of the Pond in Nagano Famous for Its Autumn Leaves Photo：Shirakoma Pond from Takami-ishi, Nagano Prefecture Shirakoma Pond is located in the eastern part of Nagano Prefecture, on the border between the towns of Koumi and Sakuho. Located on the Yachiho Highland (Yachiho Kogen) at an elevation of 2,115m (~6,900 ft), Shirakoma Pond is the highest and largest natural lake in Japan. The pond is also known for its extremely high transparency, allowing visitors to see as deep as 5.8 meters below the surface. Shirakoma Pond is easily accessible despite its location on the Yachiho Highland. With a well-maintained promenade, it's becoming a popular tourist attraction. When to See Autumn Leaves at Shirakoma Pond – Best Season and Photo Spots Photo：Autumn leaves at Shirakoma Pond, Nagano Prefecture The area surrounding Shirakoma Pond is known as one of Japan's three largest virgin forests, and during autumn, when the leaves change color, the virgin forest, filled with azaleas, birch trees, and maples, changes color to brilliant shades of red and yellow. Every year, the area is crowded with tourists who come to view the autumn foliage. If you're planning to visit Shirakoma Pond, autumn is definitely the best season to come so you can see the beauty of the autumn leaves. In the high elevation areas of Japan's Chubu region, the best time to view the autumn leaves is from late September at the earliest, and from early October on an average year. Since the forecast for autumn leaves at elevations above 2,000m is said to be largely unchanged, the best time to view the autumn foliage at Shirakoma Pond in 2023 is expected to be from late September to mid-October. During autumn, when the leaves are in season, Shirakoma Pond is crowded tourists. If you're looking to take photos, there are two great spots in front of the mountain lodges "Shirakoma-so" (白駒荘) and "Seitai-so" (青苔荘) that overlook the lakeside area. The two lodges, situated on opposite sides of Shirakoma Pond, are well known for their sunrises and sunsets which can be photographed together with the pond in the foreground. Hiking at Shirakoma Pond! Photo：The moss forest around Shirakoma Pond, Nagano Prefecture There are several hiking trails around Shirakoma Pond that can be enjoyed even by beginner hikers. We recommend the route from Shirakoma Pond (白駒池) to Takami-ishi (高見石), which has a minimal elevation change and can be easily hiked. The hike takes about 2 hours and departs from the Shirakoma Pond parking lot. The hike proceeds along a trail on which hikers can admire the beautiful mosses growing in the area. Once you reach a fork in the road, head toward Takami-ishi Lodge (高見石小屋). After hiking up behind Takami-ishi Lodge, you'll arrive at Takami-ishi. From Takami-ishi, you can enjoy a spectacular view of Japan's Northern and Central Alps and Shirakoma Pond. After admiring the view, descend from Takami-ishi toward Shirakoma Pond. Follow the boardwalk circling the mystical Shirakoma Pond before returning to the parking lot to end the hike. Although the trail around Shirakoma Pond is well maintained, it becomes slippery when it rains. When visiting Takami-ishi, a series of rock formations, in particular, extreme care should be taken to avoid injury or accidents. Please be prepared to wear comfortable walking shoes and clothes that are easy to move in, and check the weather before you go out. Additionally, because the area around Shirakoma Pond is mountainous, temperatures can vary greatly. Please bring warm clothes to adjust for the temperature changes. After enjoying hiking in the magnificent nature of Nagano, we recommend taking a breather at one of the hot spring resorts in the area. The Shirakoma Pond area is dotted with facilities where you can enjoy hot springs and take in the beautiful scenery. It's a great way to relax after a nice day of hiking. Camping at Shirakoma Pond Photo：The tent campsite at Takami-ishi Lodge, Nagano Prefecture In addition to hiking and viewing the autumn leaves at Shirakoma Pond, there are also a few locations where you can enjoy camping. Seitai-so Seitai-so, the mountain lodge mentioned earlier, has a tent site located right next to it where you can set up a tent right by the lake. The tent site is available year-round and you can even enjoy a beautiful starry sky with a view of the pond frozen over in the winter. Keep in mind that the tent site is reservation only and all garbage must be taken with you when you leave. Lodge Hours: 7:00 am - 7:00 pm. ※Hours may vary by season. Fee: The tent site is free of charge. General lodging starts at 5,500 yen/person for adults. Takami-ishi Another campsite is the Takami-ishi Tent Site, located beside Takami-ishi Lodge. Unlike the tent site at Seitai-so, Takami-ishi does not accept reservations, and is open to campers on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, the owners of the lodge provide commentary about the stars at night on the terrace, and invite guests to join them to listen. While not located directly next to Shirakoma Pond, it's only about 10 minutes from the pond by car. Lodge Hours: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Fee: Tent site: 600 yen/person. General lodging starts at 5,500 yen/ person. Both of the above facilities also having standard accommodations as well, so if you want to stay the night and enjoy the starry skies and autumn leaves, but don't want to stay in a tent, you can always book a room in the lodges. Parking and Crowding at Shirakoma Pond During the Autumn Foliage Season Photo：Autumn leaves at Shirakoma Pond, Nagano Prefecture To get to Shirakoma Pond, it's best to use the parking lot on Route 299. It takes about 15 minutes to reach the pond on foot from the parking lot. That being said, because it's a famous spot for viewing the autumn leaves, more than 180,000 people visit Shirakoma Pond during the autumn foliage season, and the parking lot becomes incredibly crowded, especially on weekends. At the same time, many cars are entering and exiting the parking lot, resulting in heavy traffic congestion on the surrounding roads. The most crowded hours at Shirakoma Pond are between 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on weekdays, and 9:00 am to 2:00 pm on weekends and holidays. If you visit Shirakoma Pond to see the autumn leaves on a weekday, it may be better to go between 6:00 am and 9:00 am. On weekends and holidays, it might be smoother to go between 6:00 am and 8:00 am. However, in the past, there have been some reports that the parking lots were full as early as 9:00 am, so be sure to check the real-time parking conditions when visiting. For real-time information on congestion around Shirakoma Pond, you'll have the most luck using X(Twitter). Look up "白駒池" (Shirakoma Pond) in the X(Twitter) search box to check the latest tweets. It's also recommended that you check live cameras installed at the Shirakoma Pond parking lot. Access the official website of the Shirakoma Pond toll parking lot to view the live camera, which is updated every 5 minutes. This is useful for checking the status of the parking lot and the weather in real time. Although it is convenient to drive to Shirakoma Pond during the fall foliage season, you may want to consider using public transportation if you're trying to avoid crowds and traffic jams. Summary of Autumn Leaves at Shirakoma Pond Photo：Autumn leaves at Shirakoma Pond, Nagano Prefecture Shirakoma Pond, located in Nagano Prefecture and famous for its autumn foliage, is the highest natural lake in Japan at 2,115 meters above sea level. During the fall foliage season, the azaleas and birch trees change color beautifully, creating a picturesque landscape. The Shirakoma Pond area is also famous for its "moss forest," which is home to 485 species of moss. The best time to see the mosses is from mid-June to the end of July, after Japan's rainy season, and visitors can enjoy the moss forest until early November every year. We invite you to experience the mysterious beauty of Shirakoma Pond as expressed in the video. 【TripAdvisor】Shirakoma Pond

Ryoanji Temple Video Introduction The featured video, "Ryoanji Temple - Kyoto - 龍安寺," is a beautifully concise visual work introducing Ryoanji Temple, one of Kyoto’s most renowned Zen temples. Focusing on the panoramic view of the rock garden, the composition evokes the tranquility and cultural depth of Japan. Despite its short length, it effectively conveys the essence of a karesansui (dry landscape) garden. What Is Ryoanji Temple in Kyoto's Ukyo Ward? Where is Ryoanji Temple located? Ryoanji Temple is a Zen temple of the Myoshinji school of the Rinzai sect, located in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto. *Zen temples are Buddhist temples that follow the teachings of Zen Buddhism, emphasizing spiritual training through zazen (seated meditation), ascetic practices, silence, and the state of no-mind. Photo: Fresh greenery at Ryoanji Temple, Kyoto Located within walking distance of the famous tourist site Kinkakuji, Ryoanji is also close to other World Heritage Sites such as Ninna-ji and Myoshin-ji, making it a popular area for experiencing Zen culture. Compared to more famous destinations, it tends to be less crowded, making it an ideal “hidden gem” in Kyoto for those who wish to enjoy the garden in peace. Why was it designated a World Heritage Site? In 1994, Ryoanji Temple was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site as part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto." The main reason was its rock garden, considered the ultimate form of karesansui. Its philosophical structure and aesthetic value have been recognized worldwide. Did Queen Elizabeth visit? One reason for Ryoanji’s international recognition is Queen Elizabeth II's visit in 1975. It is said that she quietly sat before the rock garden and remarked, “There is something inexplicably captivating about this garden.” Since then, the temple has become widely known among foreign visitors as a symbol of Zen culture. What Is the History and Background of Ryoanji? Photo: Ryoanji Temple, Kyoto City What was the site originally? The land where Ryoanji stands today was originally the villa estate of the aristocratic Fujiwara clan during the Heian period. Its quiet foothill location made it an ideal place for enjoying nature through the seasons and for cultural pursuits like poetry and tea ceremonies. Later, in 1450 during the Muromachi period, Katsumoto Hosokawa, a senior official of the shogunate, converted the estate into a Zen temple. This was a time of growing tension before the Onin War (1467 onward), during which many samurai turned to Zen for spiritual solace and intellectual cultivation. Ryoanji was established in this context and evolved into the temple we see today. The name “Ryoanji” means “The Temple of the Peaceful Dragon,” symbolizing spiritual tranquility and the Zen state of egolessness. The temple reflects the philosophy of the intellectuals and monks of the time, harmonizing nature and human design. What is the Rinzai Myoshinji school? Photo: Stone statue at Ryoanji Temple, Kyoto Ryoanji belongs to the Myoshinji school of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism. Rinzai Zen traces its roots to the Chinese Tang dynasty monk Linji Yixuan and was introduced to Japan during the Kamakura period. It emphasizes not only meditation but also attaining enlightenment through everyday activities and dialogue. The Myoshinji school is the largest branch, with Myoshinji Temple in Kyoto as its head temple and about 3,400 affiliated temples nationwide. Despite being a tourist site, Ryoanji remains an active training temple, where monks continue to perform daily rituals morning and evening. What disasters has it faced? Photo: Chokushi-mon Gate of Ryoanji’s Hojo, Kyoto Ryoanji has experienced several disasters throughout its long history. In particular, the fire of 1797 destroyed key structures including the main hall (Hojo). This major fire reportedly affected surrounding areas as well. The current Hojo was originally part of Seigen-in, a sub-temple built in 1606, and was relocated after the fire. Further repairs and preservation efforts were carried out in the Meiji era and postwar period. The current beautiful state of the temple is the result of continued care by many people. The garden, too, has been maintained in line with the times, with preservation and restoration undertaken in the late 20th century. The serene atmosphere today is a testament to these efforts. What Makes Ryoanji’s Karesansui Garden So Special? Photo: Ryoanji’s rock garden with autumn leaves What are the size and layout of the garden? Ryoanji’s rock garden measures approximately 25 meters east to west and 10 meters north to south, totaling about 250 square meters. It features white gravel and 15 stones arranged in five groups (5-2-3-2-3). It is viewed from the veranda of the Hojo and is enclosed on three sides (east, south, west) by earthen walls. The stones are surrounded by moss and resemble small islands, while the gravel is raked into ripples. The aged wall itself is an intentional part of the garden, adding character over time. What is karesansui? Photo: Karesansui Japanese garden Karesansui is a traditional Japanese garden style that uses rocks, gravel, and moss to symbolically represent natural landscapes without using water. Often found in Zen temples, it serves as a space for spiritual practice and meditation. Gravel suggests rivers or seas, and stones symbolize mountains or islands. By expressing nature in an abstract form, the garden invites introspection. What do the stones represent? The 15 stones in the garden have no clearly defined meaning, and this very ambiguity draws visitors’ fascination. Photo: Ryoanji’s karesansui garden One popular theory is known as “Tiger Cubs Crossing,” suggesting the arrangement depicts a tiger carrying her cubs across a river—large stones as the mother, small ones as cubs, and white gravel as flowing water. Other interpretations include “islands floating in the sea” or abstract art representing infinity or emptiness. The lack of a single answer allows visitors to find new perspectives each time. The garden also embodies Zen teachings such as “not seeking to understand everything” and “seeing your inner self reflected with each visit.” Why is one stone always hidden from view? The garden’s most unique feature is that from any viewing angle, one of the 15 stones is always hidden. This is believed to be a deliberate design, reflecting the Zen notion that one cannot perceive complete truth all at once. The garden changes depending on where you stand, making it a philosophical space that mirrors the observer’s mind. Visitor Information and How to Enjoy Ryoanji Admission fee and hours? As of June 2024, admission is 600 yen for adults, 500 yen for high school students, and 300 yen for elementary and junior high school students. Open year-round, from 8:00–17:00 (March–November) and 8:30–16:30 (December–February). Early mornings and late afternoons are typically less crowded, making for a more peaceful visit. How to get there? The nearest station is Ryoanji Station on the Keifuku Electric Railroad (Randen) Kitano Line, about an 8-minute walk. From Kyoto Station, take City Bus No. 50 for about 30 minutes and get off at “Ryoanji-mae.” It's also about a 10-minute walk from the “Ritsumeikan University” bus stop. COOLJAPANVIDEOS Best time and season to visit? Ryoanji offers completely different scenery depending on the season—lush greenery in spring and vivid foliage in autumn. Especially in mid-November, the garden with its red backdrop becomes a popular subject for social media photos. Best photo spots? Popular spots include the veranda of the Hojo with a full view of the rock garden and the framed view through the pillars inside the hall. The reflection of autumn leaves on Kyoyochi Pond is also a must-see. What’s nearby? Photo: Kinkakuji Nearby are many famous Zen temples, including Kinkakuji (about 1.5 km east, 18 minutes on foot), Ninna-ji (about 0.8 km west, 11 minutes), and Myoshin-ji (about 1.4 km southeast). The area is also known as the “Kinukake-no-Michi” sightseeing route and is home to matcha cafes and sweets shops. Summary: Why Does Ryoanji Continue to Fascinate? The appeal of Ryoanji lies in its tranquility, visual subtlety, and deep meaning. Within the seemingly simple structure of the rock garden lies a multitude of interpretations and aesthetic experiences, enough to even captivate Queen Elizabeth II. If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto, Ryoanji is a must-see “hidden gem” where you can escape the crowds and reflect in silence. Experience this space where philosophy and beauty come together with your own eyes. [Official Website] http://www.ryoanji.jp/smph/eng

Geisha Culture Is Not Just in Kyoto. Discover Japanese Elegance in Hachioji, Tokyo “Aren’t geisha only found in Kyoto?”Many people may believe that. However, there are still areas in Tokyo where geisha culture continues to thrive. One such place is Hachioji City, the gateway to the Tama region of Tokyo. This area is home to a hidden world of authentic geisha known as “Hachioji Geisha.” We introduce a short film titled “Tokyo TAMA Hachioji Geisya Short ver.” The film is less than a minute long and shows scenes such as walking in the rain with wooden clogs, white face makeup, shamisen performances, and graceful dancing. It captures the quiet and dignified beauty of Japan as if time has stopped. While staying in Tokyo, you can feel a cinematic and extraordinary Japanese experience. This video draws you into the fascinating world of Hachioji Geisha. The Hidden World of Hachioji Geisha in Tokyo Photo: Kurobei Street in the Geisha District of Hachioji City, Tokyo The origins of Hachioji Geisha go back to the early Meiji era. Hachioji prospered as a post town along the Koshu Highway. With the growth of the textile industry, a geisha district emerged to entertain merchants. Today, traces of that culture still remain in places like Kurobei Street. Hachioji Geisha are known for their close ties to the local community and their dedication to the traditional arts. They focus not only on elegance but also on offering refined hospitality. Through continuous training in dance and shamisen, they preserve and pass on true Japanese artistry. Unlike in Kyoto, where tourism is more developed, here you can experience the real and local culture of geisha that is loved by the community. Behind the Scenes with Hachioji Geisha Photo: Maiko The video begins with a close-up of feet walking through a rainy alley in wooden clogs. The sound of footsteps on the wet stone path brings a sense of quiet and tension. The next scene shows a geisha applying white powder in front of a mirror. Her focused expression, neatly arranged hair, and colorful kimono appear more like a ceremony of wearing tradition rather than preparing for a performance. You will also see hands playing the shamisen, dancing practice with a fan, and hospitality in a tatami room. Each scene is calm and beautiful, capturing the viewer's heart. This is a true expression of Japanese beauty. What stands out here is not a performance created just for show, but genuine movements that are part of everyday life. When Can You Invite a Geisha? This Unique Cultural Experience Is Open to Everyone “Aren’t geisha only for business receptions or corporate clients?”Hachioji Geisha challenge this image. Today, more people are booking geisha experiences for personal or tourism purposes. For example, some people offer a special evening with a geisha as a gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or their parents. As the number of international tourists increases, there are also geisha experience tours and traditional entertainment plans for visitors from overseas. In Hachioji, you can find long-established restaurants and Japanese dining venues with both history and elegance. These places offer geisha experience plans that are formal yet comfortable even for first-time guests. You can enjoy a special time with a geisha at the following venues: Sukiyaki Kappo Sakafuku (Founded in 1910) Address: Yokoyama-cho 6-10, Hachioji City Phone: 042-642-0545 Official website: https://sakafuku.jp Sushi-Chu (Founded in 1882) Address: Minami-cho 5-11, Hachioji City Phone: 042-622-1060 Kappo Inaki (Founded in 1906) Address: Yoka-cho 5-17, Hachioji City Phone: 042-622-1756 Official website: http://www.kappo-inaki.com/index.html Each restaurant offers authentic cuisine, atmosphere, and hospitality. Spending an evening with a geisha in this traditional setting will surely become a memorable experience. Hachioji also has six active geisha houses. If you are interested, it is a good idea to contact one of them for reservations. Young Geisha Are Preserving and Evolving Tradition You may be surprised to learn that some Hachioji Geisha are in their 20s or 30s. Although there was a time when activities were limited during the COVID-19 pandemic, they are now sharing information through social media and participating in events. They are working hard to protect tradition while trying new things. この投稿をInstagramで見る 八王子芸妓組合(@hachioji_odori_official)がシェアした投稿 For example, the video includes scenes of dancing and singing in the rain. These dreamlike and poetic expressions are a modern way of presenting tradition. This shows that the effort is not just to preserve the culture, but also to continue it by attracting interest in new ways. This is why Hachioji Geisha continue to shine as a living cultural tradition. How to Get to Hachioji from Tokyo Station From Tokyo Station, take the JR Chuo Line “Special Rapid” train to Hachioji. The trip takes about 55 minutes without transfers.You can also transfer to the JR Chuo Line Rapid at Shinjuku Station.From Hachioji Station, exit the north gate and walk straight along Nishi-Hoshasen Euro Road. After entering the Nakamachi area, you will reach Kurobei Street in about five minutes on foot.Along the way, you will find scenic spots such as “Soto Terrace,” making the walk enjoyable. Discover the Real Japan in Hachioji. Check Out Kurobei-kai for More Information When thinking of sightseeing in Tokyo, places like Asakusa and Ginza often come to mind. However, if you visit Hachioji, you will find an unknown and authentic side of Japan. We encourage you to step into the world of Hachioji Geisha.You may find a quiet and moving experience waiting for you. Official Website of Hachioji Geisha “Kurobei-kai” ▼ https://hachioji-kurobei.com/

Hydrangeas at Shinonome no Sato: Video Introduction This video, titled "Hydrangeas at Shinonome no Sato (Izumi, Kagoshima) [4K]"(紫陽花(アジサイ) 東雲の里（鹿児島県出水市) 【４Ｋ】） was uploaded by "Doronpi." Shinonome no Sato was created by taking advantage of the rolling hills of the mountain. This video shows what it's like to take a stroll through the garden while viewing the different varieites of hydrangeas. The video also features bird's eye views, so you can see what Shinonome no Sato is like from the skies, with hydrangeas extending as far as the eye can see. It's a beautiful scene that can only be seen during the rainy season in Japan. You can really feel the radiance of the hydrangeas as the flow in the sunlight in this 4K video. Be sure to take your time to viewing the hydrangeas Shinonome no Sato in the video, before reading along. A Beautiful Hydrangea Garden Made From Scratch: An Introduction to Shinonome no Sato Photo：Shinonome no Sato, Izumi, Kagoshima Shinonome no Sato is a garden located in Izumi, Kagoshima, in Japan's Kyushu region. The owner of the garden cleared a desolate mountainside, and opened the garden in 1995. The garden is a large area of about 40,000 tsubo (~32.5 acres) that takes advantage of the rolling hills of the mountain, and is planted with hydrangeas and other flowers and trees that reflect the four seasons of Japan. The Hydrangea Festival held in June attracts many tourists each year. The hydrangea blooming on both sides of the promenade are highly praised for being within arms' length. The owner of the garden is also a potter and there is a corner in the park where he exhibits his ceramic works. The works can be purchased as well, so if you're looking for a new coffee cup or souvenirs, you're sure to find something among his one-of-a-kind works. Hydrangea Bloom Periods and the Best Time to Visit Shinonome no Sato Photo：Hydrangeas at Shinonome no Sato, Izumi, Kagoshima The Hydrangea Festival at Shinonome no Sato is generally held from early June to coincide with the blooming of the hydrangeas. It is scheduled to take place from late May to late June 2025.The festival features 100,000 hydrangeas of 160 varieties, making it one of the most populated hydrangea spots in Japan. This is a rare event where visitors can see many different varieties of hydrangeas blooming in a variety of colors all at once. Usually, admission to Shinonome no Sato is free, but during the Hydrangea Festival and Autumn Leaves Festival, there's a 500 yen admission fee for junior high school students and older (free for elementary school students and younger). Shinonome no Sato is well known for its hydrangeas and spacious grounds that allow visitors can stroll around at their leisure. Enjoy Tasty Soba Noodles at Shinonome no Sato Within the spacious grounds of Shinonome no Sato is Nama Soba Kusanoi, a soba restaurant selling delicious, handmade soba noodles. The owner is very particular about the seeds used to make the soba, making it a popular place to eat. Dishes made by the owner owner of Shinonome no Sato, are decorated with seasonal flowers and plants. It's well known for its tasteful appearance highlighting the seasons as well as its flavor. A café menu including cake sets is also available, making it a great place to take a break after a stroll through the garden. The architecture, which is in the style of a traditional Japanese residence, is carefully decorated and furnished to provide a relaxing atmosphere. Eating delicious soba and viewing the beautiful hydrangeas makes it a place that will stimulate all five of your senses. Experience the 4 Seasons of Japan at Shinonome no Sato Photo：Weeping cherry blossoms In addition to the hydrangeas in June, Shinonome no Sato also features a variety of seasonal views: in April, there's colorful weeping cherry blossoms, and in November, guests can enjoy the beauty of autumn as the leaves change color. A visit to Shinonome no Sato is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and recharge in nature. Things to Do Near Shinonome no Sato Shinonome no Sato is located 25 minutes from the city of Izumi by car. Because of this, there isn't much to do in the immediate area surrounding the hydrangea garden. That being said, if you make your way back to Izumi, there are a few places we recommend checking out. Izumi-Fumoto Samurai Residences & the Izumi Historical Museum The samurai residences in Izumi were built some 400 years ago and today the area remains one of the largest samurai villages in Japan. Visitors to the Izumi-Fumoto Samurai Residences can enjoy learning about the history of the area and the Satsuma Domain, while seeing samurai armor and weapons and learning how people lived back then. There is also an ox carriage tour that takes you on a 25-minute-long tour of the area. Located right next to the Izumi-Fumoto Samurai Residences, the Izumi Historical Museum features a variety of exhibits with which to learn about the history of Izumi and the Satsuma Domain, including exhibits on traditional Japanese archery practiced by samurai, and the historical significance of Izumi. Hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (Last entry 4:30 pm) Admission Fee: High school students and older: 510 yen (460 yen) Elementary and junior high school students: 300 yen (260 yen) ※Brackets indicate prices for groups of 20 or more. Izumi Crane Museum and Park As the largest crane migration grounds in Japan, each year Izumi sees more than 10,000 cranes between October and December, which migrate there all the way from Serbia. At the museum, visitors can learn about different varieties of cranes and see what they look like in their natural habitats. Hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (Last entry 4:30 pm). Closed: Every Monday from April to October (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday) Admission Fee: Adults: 330 yen (260 yen), University and High school students: 220 yen (170 yen), Middle and elementary school students: 110 yen (80 yen) ※Brackets indicate prices for groups of 20 or more. Summary of Shinonome no Sato Known for its hydrangeas, Shinonome no Sato is highly rated on Google Maps reviews as a place to enjoy beautiful scenery and food. It's a healing spot where seasonal flowers and plants gently greet visitors. The expansive grounds are perfect for those looking to take a leisurely stroll and forget about the passage of time. If you've got the time, drop by to enjoy the flowers, the delicious food, and handmade ceramics! ◆Shinonome no Sato◆ 【Address】2881 Kami-Okawauchi, Izumi City, Kagoshima Prefecture 【Admission】Junior high school students and older: 500 yen, Elementary school students and younger: free ※Admission is free outside of the Hydrangea Festival and Autumn Leaves Festival event periods 【Hours】9:30 am - 4:30 pm 【Access】From Fukuoka: Minami-Kyushu Expressway Tsunaki IC→National Route 3→National Route 447→Shinonome no Sato 　From the Kyushu Longitudinal Expressway→Kurino IC→Route 267→Route 447→Shinonome no Sato 【Parking】Available 【Official Website】Welcome to the Website of Shinonome no Sato｜Izumi City 【TripAdvisor】Shinonome no Sato

Hokkaido Yuni Town "Yuni Garden" Video Introduction Photo：Kochia at Yuni Garden, Yuni, Yubari, Hokkaido This video, titled "Yuni Garden 'Kochia' 2021" (2021 ゆにガーデン「コキア」), was uploaded by "Yuni Garden Official Channel" (ゆにガーデン公式チャンネル). In the video, you can see approximately 32,000 kochia (summer cypress) plants dyed in their autumn colors at Yuni Garden, an English-style garden in Yuni, Hokkaido, in Northern Japan. Enjoy the aerial video showing the neat fields of kochia, and other gardens in the area. Yuni Garden Facility Information Photo：Kochia at Yuni Garden, Yuni, Yubari, Hokkaido Yuni Garden, located in Yuni, Hokkaido, is an English-style garden with a vast area of approximately 34.5 acres. The garden is home to a rose garden, fragrance garden, and other themed gardens, and the 32,000 kochia plants make it one of the most numerous kochia spots in Hokkaido! It takes about one hour to walk around the park, and visitors can enjoy the scenery in every season! [Video] 0:58 - The English-style Yuni Garden The Best Season to Visit Yuni Garden Photo：Kochia at Yuni Garden, Yuni, Yubari, Hokkaido At Yuni Garden, visitors can enjoy many types of flowers, but the main attraction is the kochia (summer cypress). The Kochia Hill is home to 32,000 kochia plants. Kochia is an annual plant with a lovely, fluffy appearance. What makes kochia such a nice plant is that it changes with the seasons. The best time to see the kochia at Yuni Garden is from August to October: from early August to early September, the kochia is fresh and green, and from mid-September, the leaves begin to turn from green to a vivid red. Both the green and red kochia are very photogenic, and are sure to be a hit on Instagram! [Video] 2:05 - The Colorful Kochia at Yuni Garden Chery Blossoms and Other Seasonal Flowers at Yuni Garden Photo：Roses at Yuni Garden, Yuni, Yubari, Hokkaido In addition to kochia, a variety of other flowers can be enjoyed at Yuni Garden. Here are some of the flowers that can be enjoyed during the different seasons at Yuni Garden. ● Spring (late April to May) In late April, the glory of the snow flowers, which herald the arrival of spring, begin to bloom, followed by a variety of cherry blossoms in early May. In the White Garden, visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms and wood anemone. Additionally, guests can enjoy peach blossoms, crab apples, rape blossoms, and tulips decorating the flower beds. ● Summer (June to August) From June, Moroccan toadflax spreads over the hills, and lupinu, peonies, and other early summer flowers brightly decorate the garden. In the Rose Garden, roses are in full bloom and the air is filled with their sweet fragrance. In early July, approximately 400 hydrangeas begin to bloom in "Hydrangea Alley," and in late July, scarlet sage and lilies are in full bloom. ● Autumn (September to October) In September, autumn roses, cosmos, Japanese anemone, Thunberg's bushclover, meadow saffron, and rose of Sharon can be seen. The leaves on the maple trees also change to brilliant colors during this time. The blooming conditions can vary from year to year due to climatic conditions and other factors. The official website is constantly updated with the blooming conditions, so be sure to check out the current blooming conditions before visiting! Enjoy Lunch at a Restaurant or Café at Yuni Garden Photo：Yuni Garden, Yuni, Yubari, Hokkaido Yuni Garden is also home to restaurants and cafes with which you can enjoy the local flavors of Yuni and its gardens. The restaurant "Chive" is a buffet restaurant where you can enjoy a healthy buffet. It has approximately 40 dishes using plenty of colorful vegetables, and has good reviews. Enjoy tea time on the open terrace of the cafeteria "Basil" while taking in the natural surroundings! The ice cream here is especially popular. "Jingisukan House" is a hands-on farm where you can enjoy fresh lamb Jingisukan. Keep in mind that it requires a reservation of at least 10 people. Enjoy a lunch of fresh vegetables in the nature-filled Yuni Garden! Things to Do Near Yuni Garden Photo：Yuni, Hokkaido Yuni, the town where Yuni Garden is located, is a relatively small town with not a lot to do, but there are definitely some things to check out if you're looking to get off the beaten path and explore some lesser-known areas of Japan. Kitanaganuma Ski Area During the winter months, Kitanaganuma Ski Area is a small ski resort that opens where locals gather to enjoy some light skiing together with friends and family. The ski resort has 3 lifts: the first lift being an alpine course, the second being the main skiing hill, and the third lift being a family course. There is also a sledding area for kids. At the lodge, you can take a break and enjoy some curry, beef bowls, or some noodle dishes like ramen, udon, and soba. Hours: 9:00 am - 8:30 pm (winter only) ※Ski season starts around the end of December. Pricing (1-day Pass): Adults: 1,800 yen, Children: 900 yen Laugh Tale Campground (由仁町見立の沢キャンプ場 LAUGH TALE) Laugh Tale is a new campground that opened in 2022. It's not the largest campground, but if you're just looking to get out and enjoy some time outdoors during the summer months, it's definitely not a bad option. You can throw up a tent and enjoy camping with friends, family, or even solo, and the campground also has firewood available for campfires. There is also a barbecue corner that can be rented out for 3 hours, and a dog run available for those coming with dogs. Hours: The campground opens around early May and ends in late October. Pricing: [Campground] Junior high school students and older: 500 yen, Elementary school students and younger: Free [Barbecue Area] 450 yen per person. Comes with a barbecue and chairs ※Charcoal sold separately (350 yen/1 kg) Yuni Garden is approximately 50 minutes east of Sapporo by car and 1.5 hours by train, making it a nice place for a day trip if you're in or around Sapporo. Summary of Yuni Garden, Hokkaido Photo：Kochia at Yuni Garden, Yuni, Yubari, Hokkaido Kochia changes with the seasons, with green and red kochia able to be seen in various seasons. Elaborate events such as live music, painting exhibitions, and orienteering are also held at Yuni Garden from time to time. In addition, the 1st and 11th are "Doggy Day," and guests can enjoy a walk through the gardens with their dogs. Yuni Garden is approximately 50 minutes from Sapporo by car, and 35 minutes from New Chitose Airport by car! Please visit Yuni Garden, where you can enjoy a different floral landscape each time you visit. 【Official Website】Yuni Garden, Yuni, Hokkaido 【TripAdvisor】Yuni Garden

What is “Kayabuki-no-Sato” in Miyama-cho, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture? Sightseeing Video Introduction Kayabuki Village, introduced in the video, is a tourist destination located in Miyama Town, Nantan City (南丹市, Nantanshi) in Kyoto Prefecture (京都府, Kyotofu). Kayabuki Village, located near the center of Kyoto Prefecture, is a hidden gem where you can enjoy sightseeing at ‘the alternative Kyoto,’ different from ‘Kyoto, the ancient capital.’ Its charm lays in the relaxing landscape of its thatched-roof houses against the backdrop of majestic mountains reminiscent of a Japan long passed. Of the 50 houses comprising Kayabuki Village, 39 have their roofs thatched using a traditional Japanese method, where logs are combined to form a triangle and thatches are layered on top of them. Even in Japan, it's rare to see this many thatched-roof houses at once. In 1993, the historical landscape, including the thatched roof houses, was registered under the Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings. The inside structure of a thatched-roof house and its storehouse is displayed at the Miyama Folklore Museum (美山民俗資料館, Miyama Minzoku Shiryokan) in Kayabuki Village. You can feel the old way of living in the agricultural areas of Kyoto through the displays of nearly 200 ancient agricultural tools and household items. The video shows many of the charms of the village, so be sure to watch it as you read through this article Beautiful Spring Greenery and Attractions in Kayabuki Village Photo：Kayabuki Village post Kayabuki Village is popular for its brilliant landscapes lit up by snow lanterns in the winter and colorful autumn leaves in the fall, but the beauty of the spring greenery is truly something to marvel at. We recommend hiking along the rice paddies reflecting the shining green Tanba Mountains (丹波山地, Tanba Sanchi) and the thatched-roof houses. The Jizos seeing over the village and the rustic plants and flowers greet travelers with warmth. The Miyama Kataribe Walk, where the local Kataribe (a tour guide) shows you around, is another place popular for sightseeing. The scenery of the nostalgic red post at the entrance to the village, shown in the video, is a great place for taking pictures. Be sure to upload them to your instagram! We recommend getting a shot of Kayabuki Village over the rice fields. In May, Kayabuki Village is crowded with tourists visiting for the Rice Planting Festival (お田植祭, Otaue Matsuri) and the 'Simultaneous Hosing' (一斉放水, Isseihosui). The ‘Rice Planting Festival’ is a sacred event held on the second Sunday in May where the saotome pray for fertility. The Rice Planting Festival in 2025 will be held on Sunday, May 11. The festival in which the saotome, wearing sedge hats and kimono, and lined up in a row, plant rice crops by hand, attracts many tourists, both foreign and Japanese. On the other hand, the ‘Simultaneous Hosing’ is not an event per se, but a twice-a-year testing of water cannons which protect the thatched-roof houses from fires. The water from 62 water cannons draw a large arch in the sky that resembles a water curtain over the thatched-roof houses. This view is famous as one of the best in Kyoto tourism for its beauty and attracts a large crowd of people. Definitely get a picture of this if you can! Kayabuki Village Summary Photo：Kayabuki Village Kayabuki Village, a popular out-of-the-way tourist destination in Kyoto, is located about 80 minutes away from the Kyoto City Center by car, and free shared parking lots are provided. Direct bus services from Kyoto Station operate during the green season. Staying at a thatched-roof house in the village is possible thanks to facilities such as the Matabe Guesthouse (民宿またべ, Mishuku Matabe) and the Hisaya Guesthouse (民宿久や, Minshuku Hisaya). The village also has souvenir shops, as well as cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice lunch. You can also enjoy a gourmet trip to try cuisine using fresh, local ingredients. Be sure to watch the video to enjoy the beautiful landscape and thatched-roof houses indicative of the beauty of Kayabuki Village. You'll sure be fascinated by the charms of Kayabuki Village! 【Official Website】Miyama’s thatched village (Kayabuki no Sato) https://kyotomiyama.jp/en/sightseeing/kayabuki-no-sato

The Fuji Hachimangu Shrine River Crossing Festival "#02 KAWAWATARI JINKOSAI" (#02 風治八幡宮 川渡り神幸祭) is a video created by "Higashikara." It introduces Fuji Hachimangu Shrine River Crossing Festival (Fuji Hachimangu Kawawatari Jinkosai) in Tagawa, Fukuoka. The "Fuji Hachimangu Shrine River Crossing Festival" is one of the five major festivals of Fukuoka and the largest in the Chikuho region. The five major festivals in Fukuoka include “Oniyo (Kurume),” “Hakata Gion Yamakasa” (Hakata, Fukuoka), “Kokura Gion Daiko” (Kokurakita, Kitakyushu), and “Tobata Gion Yamakasa” (Tobata, Kitakyushu). This article introduces the history and highlights of the Fuji Hachimangu Shrine River Crossing Festival, which is listed an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Fukuoka. The video shows the powerful river crossing and colorful floats of the festival. What is the "Fuji Hachimangu Shrine Kawawatari Shinko Matsuri"? What is the schedule? Source :YouTube screenshot The Fuji Hachimangu Shrine River Crossing Festival, one of the five major festivals of Fukuoka, is held on the third Saturday and Sunday in May. 100,000 people visit to see the festival; twice the population of Tagawa. Eleven Nobori Yamakasa of the Uji clan, cross the Hikosan River (彦山川, Hikosangawa) accompanied by grand mikoshi (portable shrine) of Fuuji Hachimangu Shrine and the mikoshi of Shirotori Shrine (白鳥神社, Shirotorijinja). Nobori Yamakasa are portable shrines and floats with colorful flags. They can be seen throughout the video from 0:17, 3:01, and 4:45. Nobori yamakasa are decorated with five colored flags, which represent the image of rice plants and wish for bountiful harvests and good health. The highlight of the festival is “Gaburi,” in which the yamakasa is swung back and forth in the Hikosan River to splash one another. This is shown from 4:55 in the video. The Origin and History of the Fuji Hachimangu Shrine River Crossing Festival The Fuji Hachimangu Shrine River Crossing Festival has a long history, dating back 450 years (1558 to 1569). The origin of the festival is said to be the outbreak of an epidemic disease in Itamachi. The villagers prayed to Fuuji Hachimangu Shrine, the village's guardian deity, for an end to the epidemic and offered a nobori yamakasa as a sign of their gratitude. In 1970, it was listed as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Fukuoka. Highlights of the Festival Source :YouTube screenshot The Fuji Hachimangu Shrine River Crossing Festival is held in the Hikoyama River area between the Uomachi, Banda and Kawabata districts of Tagawa City, Fukuoka Prefecture. The main event of the Fuji Hachimangu Shrine River Crossing Festival is the river crossing between the Shinbashi and Banda bridges of the Hikoyama River. The festival is only about 30 minutes by car from Kyushu Expressway's Yahata Interchange, and is a short walk from the nearest station, Tagawa Ita Station on the JR and Heisei Chikuho Railway. Free parking is available during the festival, but it can get very crowded, so we recommend using public transportation. The festival has a story where the god of Fuji Hachimangu gets on a float and goes on a trip to Otabisho across the river and stays for 1 night and 2 days. The first day of the festival is called “Okudari” and the second day is called “Onobori.” The course on the second day is the opposite of the first day and returns to Fuuji Hachimangu Shrine. On the first day, “Fujihachimangu Jinkosai Shigyo” takes place. The shintai is transferred to a Mikoshi and prepares for departure. The shintai must not be seen by the public, and the body of the deity is hidden behind a white curtain and moved into the portable shrine. This can be seen at 0:47 in the video. After that, the parade is carried out through the town and is filled with sounds of whistles and drums. “Odachi no Shishimai” is also performed to pray for the safety of the festival. This can be seen at 4:00 in the video. There are food stalls and night stalls lining the streets as well. Finally, the main event of the festival- the river crossing. This is shown at 4:18 in the video. First, a mikoshi with a shintai goes enters the river, accompanied by a brightly colored nobori yamakasa. Water is poured on the pullers and the bearers and the mikoshi is swung up and down, splashing water all about. This is called “Gaburi.” The powerful splashing of the mikoshi is incredible. It can be seen at 5:45 in the video. Summary of the Fuji Hachimangu Shrine River Crossing Festival Did you enjoy learning about the Fuji Hachimangu Shrine River Crossing Festival? You can enjoy the powerful festival and beautiful nobori yamakasa by watching the video. Fukuoka is famous for Hakata Gion Yamakasa, but the Fuji Hachimangu Shrine River Crossing Festival is also amazing. If you can, we recommend lining up your visit to Fukuoka with the Fuji Hachimangu Shrine River Crossing Festival! It will be held over two days in 2025—Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18!

Kanazawa City, a Place Overflowing With History This video, titled "[4K] Kanazawa JAPAN｜Kanazawa Sightseeing｜Kenroku-en｜Hyakumangoku Matsuri｜Higashi Chaya District｜Beautiful" (［4K］Kanazawa JAPAN 金沢観光 兼六園 百万石まつり ひがし茶屋街 Beautiful), was created by "Discover Nippon." Enjoy scenes of Kanazawa’s popular sightseeing areas and lively festivals in high 4K quality. Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture in the Hokuriku area of Japan (北陸地方, hokuriku chiho) is a popular place for sightseeing. The city is easily accessible, with Kanazawa Station linked to Tokyo Station through the Hokuriku Shinkansen. The trip by shinkansen takes around 3 hours, making it possible to plan a one-day trip. This video will introduce Kanazawa’s Kenroku-en Garden (兼六園, kenrokuen), the Hyakumangoku Festival at Oyama Shrine (尾山神社の百万石まつり, oyama jinja no hyakumangoku matsuri), Kanazawa Castle (金沢城, kanazawa-jo), and the Higashi Chaya District (ひがし茶屋街, higashi chayagai). Learn about the charms of Kanazawa! Kenroku-en Garden, the Representative Sightseeing Destination of Kanagawa Photo：Kanazawa Kenroku-en Light Up Autumn Stage Kenroku-en Garden is one of the most popular sightseeing areas in Kanazawa. The garden can be seen from 0:42 of the video. The garden was built in 1676 by Maeda Tsunanori (前田綱紀), the feudal lord at the time. It was originally meant to be used as a villa. On the grounds of Kenroku-en, you can see old-fashioned Japanese-style gardens. In addition, the view in the gardens changes depending on the season. In fact, Kenroku-en’s blooming cherry blossoms in spring have earned it a spot on the list of "Top 100 Cherry Blossom Areas of Japan." Kanazawa Castle, One of Japan’s Top 100 Castles Photo：Kanazawa Castle at dusk When visiting Kanazawa, one spot you definitely don't want to miss is Kanazawa Castle. The castle can be seen from 3:33 in the video. It was built by feudal lord Maeda during the Edo period (1603~1868), and is ranked as one of "Japan’s Top 100 Castles." Sadly, due to numerous fires in the past, much of the castle has been destroyed. The current outer citadel and castle walls have been rebuilt, and work is ongoing to restore the rest of the castle to its former glory. At the beginning of every year, the Kaga Hashigo Nobori (加賀はしご登り, kaga hashigo nobori), or "Kaga ladder acrobatics," is held. This is a proud tradition with a history of more than 300 years. The magnificent demonstration of traditional Japanese culture can be seen at 3:39 in the video. The Higashi Chaya District - Kanazawa’s "Mini-Kyoto" Photo：Higashi Chaya District This area can be seen at 1:00 of the video. The Higashi Chaya District can be found in what was formerly the castle town of Kanazawa. The district retains its Edo-period design and atmosphere, making visitors feel as if they’ve traveled back in time. At night, the paper lanterns of the low-roofed wooden houses and former samurai residences light up beautifully, and you can hear geisha singing along to the music of the shamisen and Japanese drums. Yukata and kimono rental shops are also available, making it possible for visitors to immerse themselves even more fully in the historical atmosphere while strolling around the district. There are also many cafes and souvenir shops where you can eat or shop to your heart’s content. The Higashi Chaya District is definitely a must-visit area. The Festivals of Kanazawa City Photo：Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Procession Every year in June, the Hyakumangoku Matsuri (Festival) is held at Oyama Shrine. The shrine is located right in the center of the city, and the festival is the largest in Ishikawa Prefecture. The festival lasts for 3 days, drawing more than 4 million visitors annually. It can be seen at 3:05 in the video. The highlight of the festival is the Hyakumangoku Procession (百万石行列, hyakumangoku gyoretsu), a reenactment of the entrance of feudal lord Maeda Toshiie (前田利家, maeda toshiie) into Kanazawa Castle. The magnificent procession is made up of 2,500 people, including locals dressed in Edo-period armor, Japanese drum performers, and falconers. Besides the procession, there are also tea-drinking ceremonies and lantern-floating ceremonies as well, and the festival can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The ethereal beauty of the lanterns floating on the water can be seen at 6:32 in the video. Summary of Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture Kanazawa City, also known as the "Kyoto of Hokuriku," is an area steeped in history reminiscent of the Edo period. The city is also well-known for its traditional crafts, such as the Kanazawa-Haku (金沢箔, kanazawa-haku), Kutani ware (九谷焼, kutani-yaki), as well as Kaga-yuzen fabric dyeing (加賀友禅, kaga yuzen). If you're traveling to Kanagawa, definitely use this video and article as a guide. Don’t forget to enjoy the fresh, delicious seafood and hot springs as well. We hope this video and article have given you an idea about what Kanagawa has to offer! 【Official Website】Ishikawa Prefecture Kanazawa City, City Hall Homepage https://www.city.kanazawa.ishikawa.jp/index_e.html 【Official Website】Kanazawa Sightseeing・Tourism Information Site https://visitkanazawa.jp/

Fuji, Fuji City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan: Tea Fields at the Foot of Mount Fuji, "Obuchi Sasaba" Video Introduction This video, titled “Drone Shot Tea Plantation and Mt. Fuji Obuchi Sasaba（空撮 茶畑と富士山 静岡 大淵笹場 | Tea Plantation and Mt. Fuji）,” is a video using drone footage of a tea plantation around Mt. Fuji in Shizuoka in the Tokai region of Japan. It was produced by "crescendo L DESIGN." The Mt.Fuji area in Shizuoka has two famous tea growing locations called Obuchi Sasaba and Imamiya. Early summer, when the lush tea plantation spreads across the slope on the outskirts of Mt. Fuji and shows natural scenic beauty unique to the famous tea growing locations, is the best time to visit. You can watch drone footage of the tea plantation at Obuchi Sasaba in the video. With Mt. Fuji faintly covered in snow in the background, the vast, solid green tea plantation creates a beautiful landscape unique to Japan. Please watch the video and enjoy the scenic beauty that can only be seen in Japan. How Japanese Tea Is Grown Photo：A Tea Plantation Tea plants grow well in warm weather. In Japan, the largest producers of tea are the Mt. Fuji area in Shizuoka, Uji in Kyoto, and Sayama in Saitama, and teas from these area are called the "Three Famous Teas of Japan." An evergreen tree called camellia sinensis is grown in tea farms nationwide and tea picking is held during May when fresh tea leaves are harvested. The tea is harvested and sold as new tea, so be sure to taste the freshly harvested, elegant flavors. In Shizuoka tea plantations, windmill-like structures are installed to protect the new tea from frost damage in the early spring. Obuchi Sasaba in this video is in Shizuoka Prefecture, which boasts the largest tea cultivation and production area in Japan. Experience Tea Picking on the Outskirts of Mt. Fuji! Photo：Tea picking A popular attraction in tea producing areas, including Obuchi Sasaba in the Shizuoka area, is tea picking. There are also spots where you can borrow a tea-girl costume to pick tea and enjoy a memorable experience. Picking tea in the sprawling tea fields of Obuchi Sasaba, is a great way to remember your trip. We recommend that you buy some delicious tea as a souvenir after a leisurely tour of the tea plantations around Mt. Fuji. When is the best time to visit "Oobuchi Sasaba", a tea plantation and Mt. Don't miss the Oobuchi Tea Festival! Photo：The tea plantation of Obuchi Sasaba Shizuoka Prefecture is known as one of Japan's leading tea-producing regions and there are many tea plantations in the prefecture. In spring, you can see the verdant landscape of tea fields at the foot of Mt. Fuji. The scenery has become so popular among foreign tourists in recent years that you can take a tour of the tea plantations by minibus. The best time to photograph the lush tea fields and Mt. Fuji at Oobuchi Sasaba is from late April to May. We recommend the "Oobuchi Tea Festival," which is held during the best time to view the tea fields. The festival is usually held on May 3, and visitors can enjoy a variety of gourmet foods and events, including a photo session where they can take pictures of tea girls picking tea along with Mt. You're sure to get some great Instagram pics! Summary of Obuchi Sasaba In this video, you can see a spectacular view of the greenery of young tea leaves against the backdrop of Mt. Fuji. After viewing the scenic beauty of Obuchi Sasaba, your everyday tea may be more flavorful. We hope you enjoy your early summer sightseeing trip in the scenic beauty of Shizuoka, where you can experience tea picking, buy delicious tea, and enjoy Japanese tea culture! ◆Obuchi Sasaba◆ 【Address】Near 1516, Obuchi, Fuji City, Shizuoka 【Access】About 35 minutes from JR Fuji Station by bus or about 20 minutes from Tomei Fuji IC/New Tomei New Fuji IC by car 【Parking】Toll parking is available near the tea plantation 【Tripadvisor】Obuchi Sasaba https://www.tripadvisor.en/ShowUserReviews-g303147-d10282623-r377490474-Obuchi_Sasaba-Fuji_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Video introduction and highlights of the "Konan Wisteria Festival" held at Mandara Temple in Konan City, Aichi Prefecture This video is "Konan City Public Relations『We Welcome You (あなたを歓迎します)』～Konan City’s Wisteria PR Video～" made by "konankoho," to promote the Konan Wisteria Festival at Mandara Temple (曼陀羅寺 Mandaraji) in Konan City, Aichi prefecture. Mandara Temple was built in Owari (in what is now Aichi Prefecture) in the first half of the 14th century at the behest of Emperor Godaigo. The temple has a gorgeous wisteria trellis, some of which has been transplanted to a neighboring park, and the Konan Wisteria Festival, one of the largest and most popular events in Japan, offers a spectacular view of the wisteria in bloom under the management of the city of Konan. You can enjoy the magnificent view of the flowers at this event. The Konan Wisteria Festival is usually held during the Golden Week holidays in April and May. The highlight of the Konan Wisteria Festival is the wisteria flowers that fill the park. The wisteria trellises, 4,700 m2 in area and up to 75 m long, are filled with clusters of wisteria flowers in a variety of colors, from early and late bloomers to purple, red, and white, and the sweet scent of the flowers fills the park. You can see the extraordinary beauty of Konan Wisteria Festival even in the video. Check out the amazing wisteria in bloom! History of the Konan Wisteria Festival, Japan’s No. 1 Wisteria Festival The Konan Wisteria Festival, one of Japan’s largest Wisteria festivals, is held in Konan City, Aichi prefecture. The city was formed in 1954 after the merger of Tanba Gun Kochino Town (丹羽郡古知野町 Tanbagun Kochinocho), Hotei Town (布袋町 Hoteicho), Haguri Gun Miyata Town (葉栗郡宮田町 Hagurigun Miyatacho) and Kusai Village (草井村 Kusaimura). Towns and villages were merging left and right during the Showa period, and it eventually came to be called the "Great Showa Merger" (昭和の大合併, Showa no Daigapei). The main industry is the manufacturing of electronic components, and the industrial area has one of the largest weekday worker populations in Aichi Prefecture. You can learn about the history and culture of Konan City at the Konan City History Folklore Museum. What are the dates of the Konan Wisteria Festival and other events such as lighting up? Photo：Wisteria During the Konan Wisteria Festival, there are various events around Mandara Temple. The atmosphere of the festival is boosted by these events. There are various concerts at Mandara Temple’s stage next to the site and other places within the city. The lighting on Wisteria trellis creates a magnificent view in the evening. There is also a photo competition. If you think you're good at photography, why not enter into the competition with your own photos? At the very least you'll have something to post on Instagram if you don't win. Throughout the video, you are of course, shown the best of the Konan Wisteria Festival, with its gorgeous purple walls. The dates for the 2024 Enan Wisteria Festival are from April 15 to May 5. During the festival, the wisteria will be illuminated from 6:30pm to 9pm. During the festival, there is a free shuttle bus connecting Mandara Temple, Suitopia Konan (すいとぴあ江南), Flower Park Konan (フラワーパーク江南), and Ongakuji Temple (音楽寺 Ongakuji). The timetable can be downloaded as a PDF file from official Konan Wisteria Festival website. There are 14 toll parking lots (500 yen for up to 3 hours) in the vicinity, and the official website has a PDF file of "Mandara Temple Park Information Map and Guide to Parking Lots in the Area" for your convenience. Visit Konan City, the Number One Tourist Spot in Aichi Prefecture A long time ago, the Konan City area in Aichi prefecture was called Owarimei (昔尾張名). The Nobunagaikoma Yoshino Route is a 5km sightseeing route on foot where you can see the history of the area: ・ Hotei Station(布袋駅)→Hiroma Family House Gate (廣間家の門 Hiromake no mon)→Takara Peak Base (宝山頂基地 Takara Sancho Kichi)→Hanya Temple (般若寺 Hanyaji)→Ikoma House Ruins (生駒屋敷跡 Ikoma Yashiki ato)→Shinmei Shrine (神明社 Shinmeisha)→Kyusho Temple (久昌寺 Kyushoji)→Ryu Shrine (龍神社 Ryujinja)→Jokan Temple (常観寺 Jokanji)→Kyo Mound (経塚 Kyozuka)→Hotei Station Other popular tourist attractions in Konan City include Flower Park Konan. It is filled with beautiful flowers, yet it is not so well-known. Another place is Kannon Temple (観音寺 Kannonj), an ancient Japanese temple, where you can experience serene scenery. Be sure to visit these places when you're in Konan City. Summary of Konan City, Aichi Prefecture Photo：Mandara Temple's wisteria As an industrial city, Konan City is not a big tourist city. It’s a regional city with warm climate and has a lot of greenery on its outskirts. Konan Wisteria Festival, one of Japan’s largest Wisteria festivals, held in Konan City during Golden Week, is packed with tourists every year. If you stay in Nagoya, you can also try out some of Nagoya’s local foods, too. The peak of the festival is in the first half of Golden Week. However, you can see the wisteria in full bloom around mid-April. If you prefer to enjoy the full view of the Wisteria blossom and its sweet smell in peace, you should visit there in the early morning when there are not many visitors about. You can go for lunch and stroll around the city afterwards. Be sure to check out the video on the Konan Wisteria Festival and witness the beauty of the wisteria. If you're interested in visiting, be sure to click on the links below for more information! ◆Mandara Temple◆ 【Address】202 Teramachi, Maehibo Town, Konan City in Aichi Prefecture 483-8336 【Access】10 minutes by bus from Konan Station on the Inuyama Line 【Parking】Paid car parks nearby 【Telephone No.】0587-55-1695 【Official Website】Aichi prefecture Konan City Hall Website https://www.city.konan.lg.jp/

Gokase, Miyazaki If you're planning to travel to Miyazaki prefecture and looking to get information on the most popular tourist destinations then you came to the right place. This article will introduce the beautiful scenery of Gokase, Miyazaki, as well as some of the most popular activities you can enjoy during your visit. The video, titled “Gokase,” is a tourism PR video for Gokase, Miyazaki, produced by the “Miyazaki Prefecture Town and Village Association.” In this article, we'll introduce places where you can enjoy beautiful views and experience history alongside the video. Lots of attractive points about Gokase are jam-packed into this 3-minute video. You're sure to find something that catches your eye! Popular Activities in Gokase, Miyazaki, a Popular Tourist Spot in Japan Photo：Children skiing Some of the most popular activities in Gokase, Miyazaki, are skiing and snowboarding. Although it might be difficult to imagine skiing and snowboarding in Kyushu, you can do so at the Gokase Highland Ski Resort in Gokase, Miyazaki prefecture, which has excellent slope conditions. The characteristics of the Gokase Highland Ski Resort are that you can enjoy the powdery snow and enjoy the amazing view around the ski resort. On sunny days, you can enjoy the magnificent views of Mt. Aso and the Kuju Mountains, as well as activities such as skiing and snowboarding. At 0:12, the video introduces the southernmost ski resort in Japan with the longest run at 1,000 meters. Scenic Areas in Gokase, Miyazaki Source :YouTube screenshot There are many places in Gokase where you can enjoy beautiful natural landscapes, such as the autumn leaves, terraced rice paddies, and weeping cherry trees. One place we highly recommend is Unoko Falls. Unoko Falls, amidst the beautiful scenery of the great outdoors, has a 20 meter drop and you'll definitely be fascinated by its mysterious atmosphere. The waterfall's basin is the largest in Japan. Enjoy the scenery of Unoko Falls, surrounded by mountains and rocks. It'll be a trip you won't soon forget! The falls can be seen at 0:38 in the video. Be sure to check it out! There are many other scenic spots in Gokase, such as the outer rim of Mt. Aso’s volcanic crater, Shirataki Falls, and Yuhinosato Ohashi. There are many Instagrammable spots as well. Gokase is also a leading producer of pot-roasted tea and is home to many green tea fields. These can be seen at 1:03 in the video. Historical Spots in Gokase, Miyazaki Source :YouTube screenshot In Gokase, there are also a lot of places where you can experience history. Sangasho Shrine is a shrine made of Japanese zelkova trees which give it a beautiful grainy appearance. The shrine has a long history and is also designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of Miyazaki prefecture. In the spring, the rhododendrons are in full bloom and decorate the area around the shrine, making it a great place to enjoy the beautiful scenery. The 300-year old “weeping cherry tree,” which is a natural treasure of Josenji Temple, is another place we recommend checking out. It can be seen at 2:29 in the video. Summary of Gokase, Miyazaki This PR video for Gokase, Miyazaki prefecture introduces various sightseeing spots in Gokase, Miyazaki with easy-to-understand explanations. It is also a very high-quality video. If you watch the video, you're sure to find something that catches your eye. There are many ways to enjoy Gokase, Miyazaki. There are soothing, relaxing spots such as Gokase Onsen and Gokase Winery as well, so if you're interested, definitely check them out as well! 【Official Website】Gokase, Miyazaki Prefecture Town Hall Website http://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/index.html 【Tripadvisor】Gokase Tourism https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g1121582-Activities-Gokase_cho_Nishiusuki_gun_Miyazaki_Prefecture_Kyushu.html