Video introduction of cherry blossoms in full bloom at “Fushimi Inari-taisha” in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture and “Shinjuku Gyoen” in Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo This video, titled "Beautiful Sakura & Shrines in Japan 4K --UltraHD Background Video," was released by "Tel Stewart." It introduces scenery of cherry blossoms at popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan. When spring arrives, the Japanese archipelago is covered with cherry blossoms in full bloom, creating beautiful pink landscapes. In addition to varieties such as the Yoshino cherry and Yaezakura, various endemic varieties, made through crossbreeding during the Muromachi Period (1336 to 1573 AD), bloom in popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan. There are some characteristic varieties, such as Sumizome cherry blossoms, that are slightly grayish, as well as other varieties like Kawazu cherry blossoms that bloom early, so sit back and enjoy the different varieties of cherry blossoms in the video! What is the attraction of Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine in Kyoto and when are the cherry blossoms at their best? Photo：The thousand torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto At Fushimi Inari Shrine, is a tourist attraction that many tourists visit not only in Japan but also from overseas.In the ranking of popular inbound tourist attractions, it was ranked No. 1. It is the main shrine of more than 30,000 Inari shrines nationwide, and was seated on Mount Inari in Fushimi Ward, Kyoto City on the first day of February in the 4th year of Wako (711). In the main shrine, five pillars, including Ukanomitama no Okami, are enshrined, and they are deeply worshipped as gods of prosperity in business and good harvest. In addition to the vermilion torii, there are numerous ozuka in the mountains of Mount Inari, and it is said that climbing Mount Inari and visiting Shinto shrines and ozuka is "mountainous." One of the most popular photo spots for tourists is Senbon Torii, a vermilion-coated "Senbon Torii" lined up on the approach, with about 10,000 torii across Mount Inari. Furthermore, in spring, the approach is decorated with beautiful cherry blossoms.You can enjoy the collaboration of cherry blossoms with vermilion torii, the main shrine of important cultural properties, and the statue of a fox belonging to the kenzoku of Inari Daigami. The best time to see cherry blossoms at Fushimi Inari Taisha is usually early April.Kyoto is expected to bloom around March 23rd and April 1st, a little earlier than usual, in 2024. Sightseeing at Famous Cherry Blossom Locations in Japan! Photo：Miharu Waterfall Cherry Blossoms, Fukushima Prefecture There are many tourist spots in Japan where you can enjoy a spectacular view of cherry blossoms. In particular, the Miharu Takizakura in Fukushima Prefecture, Yamanashi Prefecture's Yamataka Jindai-zakura, and Gifu Prefecture's Neoya Usuzumi Zakura, known as the three major cherry blossoms spots in Japan, are all worth checking out. These cherry trees are estimated to be 1,000 to 2,000 years old, and the sight of the cherry blossoms in full bloom on the giant trees is a sight to behold. The combination of the previous three famous locations, together with the Ishitokaba Zakura in Saitama Prefecture and Gebazakura in Shizuoka Prefecture's Kariyado, are called the "Five Great Cherry Blossoms of Japan." Take a look at the beautiful trees selected as part of the "Top 100 New Japanese Trees." In the video, you can also see the cherry blossoms at "Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden," a place where you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing in the big city of Shinjuku. From 2:37 in the video, you can see the beautiful cherry blossoms blooming against the backdrop of urban buildings. Tips for Enjoying Japan's Cherry Blossom Viewing Tradition Photo：Cherry blossom viewing The temperature of the Japanese archipelago varies from region to region, and so the time when cherry blossoms bloom varies as well. In the spring, news of bloom forecasts for each region is broadcast in Japan, and when cherry blossoms begin blooming, famous places and parks nationwide are crowded with many people flocking to see the beautiful flowers. Japanese people look forward to the end of the long winter and the arrival of cherry blossoms each year. The cherry blossoms are ephemeral flowers that disappear almost as fast as they arrive, but the spectacular view of cherry blossoms blizzards with pink petals fluttering about is also plentiful. Summary of Japan's Beautiful Cherry Blossoms Photo：Cherry blossoms, Someiyoshino As you can see in the video, Japan's cherry blossom scenery and especially the cherry blossom blizzards are truly breathtaking. If you're looking to enjoy sightseeing in Japan during spring, be sure to visit the scenic shrines and cherry blossom spots all over the country!

Azaleas at Nagushiyama Park, Sasebo: Video Introduction This video, titled "A Carpet of Azaleas at Nagushiyama Park" (長串山公園のツツジの絨毯) was uploaded by "NAGASAKISHIMBUNSHA." It's a drone video of 100,000 azaleas blooming at Nagushiyama Park overlooking the sea. The pink and red azaleas are in full bloom during spring. Take your time and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of these flowers! This article will provide basic information on Nagushiyama Park, as well as information on sightseeing in Sasebo and its highlights. Read on to learn more. An Introduction to Sasebo, Nagasaki Sasebo, located in northern Nagasaki, is the second largest city in Nagasaki, second only to Nagasaki City, and is a 2-3-hour plane ride south from Tokyo. It's a port city known for its famous Sasebo Burgers which are handmade and made to order, as well as various attractions, such as Huis Ten Bosch, the largest theme park in Japan, and other places like the Kujukushima Zoo & Botanical Gardens, etc. Being located far south of Tokyo, the weather is on average slightly warmer than Tokyo. Nagasaki Prefecture also has many tourist attractions to explore outside of Sasebo. Some things to do in Nagasaki include: ・Nagasaki Peace Park ・Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum ・Hashima Island (Gunkanjima) ・Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown If you're traveling to Nagasaki and looking for things to do, Sasebo is definitely worth a trip and you could easily spend more than a day exploring the area. Sasebo is located around 2 hours north of Nagasaki City via train. Features of Nagushiyama Park in Sasebo, Nagasaki Photo：Azaleas at Nagushiyama Park, Saikai National Park, Sasebo, Nagasaki Nagushiyama Park is located near the summit of the 234-meter-tall Mt. Nagushiyama in Sasebo, Nagasaki, in Japan's Kyushu region. The azaleas, which now number approximately 100,000, were first planted by local residents in 1969. In the language of flowers, azaleas have the meanings "first love," "the joy of love," and "passion. It's no exaggeration to say that the warm passion of the local people has created the spectacular scenery we see today. There are many azalea viewing spots across Japan, but only here in Nagushiyama Park can you enjoy a view of the sea beyond the brilliantly blooming azaleas. From here, visitors to the park can enjoy a panoramic view of the northern Kujuku Islands and Hirado Island in the sea. [Video] 0:50 - The Southern Slope of the Park Overlooking the Sea Nagushiyama Park also has a campground, a 100-meter-long roller slide, and playground equipment for kids to enjoy. You can experience an entire day of fun-filled activities with your family or friends while viewing the azaleas and the blue sea. Dogs are also permitted in the park, so if you're traveling with your best friend, you'll have nothing to worry about. What Do Azaleas Bloom at Nagushiyama Park? Photo：Azaleas at Nagushiyama Park, Saikai National Park, Sasebo, Nagasaki The best time to view azaleas at Nagushiyama Park varies slightly depending on the variety of azalea. Kurume azaleas bloom from mid to late April, while Hirado azaleas bloom from late April to early May. Although there are slight variations, it's recommended to visit the garden from early April, when the azaleas start to bloom, to early May, when the azaleas are in full bloom. [Video] 1:12 - Hirado and Kurume Azaleas in Full Bloom According to information from the Visitor Center, the schedule for the Azalea Festival in 2023 is as follows: The schedule of the "Chokushiyama Azalea Festival" in 2024 is as follows. Chokushiyama Azalea Festival in 2024 Period: April 3 - April 30 Hours: 9:00 - 17:00 Admission (during the azalea festival period): 250 yen per person (junior high school students and older) Please note that the Visitor Center is usually closed on Thursdays. For information on blooming and events, please visit the official website. The annual Azalea Festival is quite popular and is expected to be crowded on weekends. It's recommended that visitors look up information on sightseeing and traffic congestion in the area before visiting. Tourist Attractions in Sasebo in Spring Photo：Flower fields at Huis Ten Bosch Below is a list of popular tourist attractions during spring in Sasebo, Nagasaki. Consider adding them to your itinerary! ●Huis Ten Bosch Enjoy the Flower Festival and delicious food at the largest theme park in Japan! ●Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort A marine resort facility home to Kujukushima Aquarium Umi Kirara, which introduces the marine life of the Kujuku Islands, and sunset cruises on large pirate ships. ●Tenkaiho Observatory This observatory offers a 180-degree panoramic view of the Kujuku Islands, and is the most popular viewing platform in Sasebo. ●Miyajidake Shrine Miyajidake Shrine is a beautiful shrine with a brightly painted vermilion building that is said to bring good fortune, luck, prosperous business, and traffic safety. Enjoy spring in Sasebo with Nagushiyama Park and a host of tourist attractions! Summary of Spring Sightseeing in Sasebo and Azaleas at Nagushiyama Park In the video, you can see azaleas in full bloom overlooking the sea. Nagushiyama Park offers spectacular spring views, that can't be found anywhere else in Japan. The 100,000 azaleas, which were planted by the local people, represent the spirit of Japanese hospitality. We recommend staying at a hotel in the area and taking your time to explore the rich nature and international character of Sasebo in spring. You're sure to make some awesome memories here! ◆Nagushiyama Park, Saikai National Park◆ [Address] 〒859-6206 174-12 Shikamachi-cho Nagushi, Sasebo, Nagasaki pref. [Hours] 9:00〜18:00 (Admission until 17:00) [Admission] Free ※But charged during the Azalea Festival Adults (junior high school students and older): 250 yen per person [Parking] Available [Access] From Sasebo Station, take a bus bound for Hirado, change to a bus bound for Kusudomari at Sasa Bus Center, get off at Nagushiyama Azalea Park Entrance, and walk about 15 minutes. [TripAdvisor] Nagushiyama Park

Enjoy Sightseeing in Japan's Snowy Tohoku Region in the Cold Winter This video, titled "[4K] Snowy Landscapes in Tohoku, Japan｜Winter Travel in Japan's Tohoku Region｜Sightseeing in Tohoku｜Ouchi-Juku, Tsugaru Railway Stove Train｜Samurai Houses in Kakunodate｜Mogami River Boat Ride｜Ginzan Onsen" (［4K］JAPAN 東北の雪景色の風景 Winter travel in Tohoku region 東北の観光 大内宿 津軽 鉄道ストーブ列車 角館武家屋 最上川舟下り 銀山温泉), is a 4K video released by "Discover Nippon" that introduces the Tsugaru Railway stove train running in Aomori Prefecture, as well as tourist information on Japan's Tohoku region in winter. In the Tohoku region, where you can enjoy the natural scenery of Japan's four seasons, you can also enjoy the snowy landscape in winter. The Tsugaru Railway, which goes through the snowy scenery of the Tohoku region, is a simple sightseeing train with a potbelly stove, through which you can feel the culture of Japan while riding the train. This can be seen from 3:05 in the video. Take the Tsugaru Railway Stove Winter Train, known as the winter event train, and experience a fascinating trip to enjoy the scenery around Japan's Tohoku region in winter. Recommended Tourist Destinations in Fukushima, Yamagata, Akita, Aomori Photo：Ouchi-juku Ouchi-juku in Fukushima Prefecture, which can be seen from 0:23 in the video, is a popular tourist destination where the landscapes of old Japan remain. Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint cityscape that will have you feeling as though you've traveled back in time to the Edo period. In Yamagata, we recommend experiencing a Mogami River boat ride that can be seen from 7:55 in the video, and enjoying the views of nature, or stopping by Ginzan Onsen, which has a beautiful "Taisho Roman" style scenery. Ginzan Onsen can be seen from 10:07 in the video. We also recommend stopping by Tamasudare Falls, a lesser-known tourist spot, and enjoying the amazing view. If you stop by Akita, be sure to take a commemorative photo with the armored warrior on the Kakunodate Samurai House Museum Street, and take in the history. It will make your sightseeing trip an even more memorable experience. If you're traveling along the coast of Aomori, we recommend trying some of the delicious seafood. After strolling through the snowy landscapes, enjoy the luxurious "Aomori Nokke Don," a seafood bowl at Aomori Gyosai Center & Auga Shinsen Ichiba (魚菜センター＆アウガ新鮮市場), which can be seen from 5:37 in the video. Spending the Winter in Japan's Tohoku Region Photo：samurai doll Icicles hang from the eaves of the historic Japanese houses in the winter, creating a beautiful scene. People in Tohoku spend their time in traditional Japanese-style rooms with an irori hearth on cold days, looking out at the snowy landscape from the snow-viewing window of the shoji screen. Some families make snowmen or igloos after shoveling snow. In Tohoku, there are many local dolls, such as Hina dolls and various samurai dolls. After sightseeing in the snowy Tohoku region, consider picking one up as a souvenir. Summary of Snowy Landscapes of Japan's Tohoku Region Photo：Ouchi-juku In the Tohoku region, we recommend taking the winter stove train shown in the video to experience the wonderful scenery, or relaxing at a traditional Japanese inn. If you want to enjoy the snowscapes of Japan, then the Tohoku region during winter is the place to be!

Hieizan Enryakuji Temple, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan This video, titled "Walking Around Mt.Hiei-zan Enryaku-ji Temple (Kyoto, Japan)," was created by "Anna Film Production." It's an introductory video of Enryakuji Temple located in Otsu (大津市), Shiga prefecture. Enryakuji Temple was founded by the Japanese monk Saicho (最澄) (767 AD - 822 AD) some time between the end of the Nara Period (790 AD) and the beginning of the Heian Period (800 AD) and is the headquarters of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism. The video shows the large lecture hall, Amida-do (阿弥陀堂) from 4:46, the pagoda Hokke Soji-in Todo (法華総寺院東塔) from 4:57 as well as the following buildings: Sannouin (山王院堂), the Saito Area (西塔), Tsubakido (椿堂), Jogyodo (常行堂), Hokkedo (法華堂), Ninaido (にない堂), Shakado (釈迦堂), Eshindo (恵心堂) and Konponnyohoto (根本如法塔). Please enjoy taking a look at the unique scenery of each of the temple's areas in the video. The History of Enryakuji Temple Photo：Kaidan-in Temple, Mt. Hiei, Shiga Prefecture Enryakuji Temple, also known as Eizan (叡山), is a temple located in Sakamoto Honcho (坂本本町) in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture. Enryakuji Temple dates all the way back to the 8th century when the then 19-year-old monk Saicho built a simple thatched hut. Mt. Hiei, the mountain on which Enryakuji Temple is built, has been worshipped since ancient times and is even mentioned in the Kojiki. The Japanese god or "kami" Oyamakui (大山咋神) is the deity enshrined here. Many famous monks, such as Kukai (空海), also known as Kobo Daishi (弘法大師), have trained on Mt. Hiei, making it one of the most important mountains for Buddhism in Japan. During the Warring States Period (1467 AD - 1615 AD), Enryakuji Temple was famously burned to the ground by the warlord Oda Nobunaga (織田信長); however the temple was later rebuilt by Toyotomi Hideyoshi (豊臣秀吉) (1536 AD - 1598 AD) and Tokugawa Ieyasu (徳川家安) ( 1541 AD - 1616). Highlights of Enryakuji Temple and Mount Hiei Photo：Enryakuji Temple, Mt. Hiei, Shiga Prefecture Enryakuji Temple is home to many national treasures and Important Cultural Properties as well as being registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto" (古都京都の文化財). Over one hundred sub-temples cover the vast temple grounds and the three main areas of the temple "Todo" (東塔), "Saito" (西塔), and "Yokawa" (横川) are generally referred to as "Santo" (三塔, santou) meaning "the three pagodas." We highly recommend taking a trip to Enryakuji Temple to visit one or more of the many fascinating temple buildings, such as Kokuhoden (国宝殿) or Rurido (瑠璃堂). Don't forget to collect seal stamps, known as "go-shuin," as you visit the different temples! You can also enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lake Biwa (琵琶湖) from the temple grounds! Summary of Mt. Hiei and Enryakuji Temple Photo：Enryakuji Temple, Mt. Hiei, Shiga Prefecture Enryakuji Temple is a dynamic sightseeing spot consisting of multiple buildings that cover the mountainous area stretching from Lake Biwa to Kyoto. As you can imagine after watching the video, it would take a fairly long time to visit each and every one of the halls and buildings of Enryakuji Temple. We highly recommend booking a hotel in the surrounding area and participating in one of the local tours to make the most of your visit to Mt. Hiei in Shiga Prefecture. ◆Mount Hiei and Enryakuji Temple - Information Summary◆ 【Address】Shiga Prefecture, Otsu City, Sakamoto Honmachi 4220 【Access】Take the Hieizan Railway Line cable car to Cable Sakamoto Station (ケーブル坂元駅) (35 minutes by car from Otsu city center) 【Hours】Todo area – March to November 8.30am – 4.30pm, December 9am – 4pm, January to February 9am – 4.30pm Saito area and Yokawa area - March to November 9am – 4pm, December 9.30am – 3.30pm, January to February 9.30am – 4pm 【Enryakuji Temple Tourist Pass】Adults – 1000 yen, Junior High School Students – 600 yen, Elementary School Students – 300 yen 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】077-578-0001 【Official Website】Tendai School of Buddhism Headquarters, Mount Hiei, Enryakuji Temple https://www.hieizan.gr.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Mount Hiei, Enryakuji Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298202-d321090-Reviews-Hieizan_Enryaku_ji_Temple-Otsu_Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Introduction of PR video for sightseeing in Noto Town, Hozu County, Ishikawa Prefecture This video, titled "Noto, Ishikawa Tourism PR Video" (【石川県能登町観光PR】心あばれる), was created by "Noto Town." Noto, Ishikawa, in the Hokuriku region of Japan, is a town with more than 1,300 years of history. It's a small town that boasts the gentle coastline of Uchiura, facing Toyama Bay (富山湾, Toyamawan) and the Mt. Hachibuse (鉢伏, Hachibuseyama), where precious ancient beech forests remain. The town has a long history, prospering from dolphin hunting in the Jomon period (14,00 B.C. to 400 B.C.), and worshipping the god of agriculture and marriage, also known as the god of mountains. Please enjoy the video of the countryside, Noto, where history and culture are still alive today. From Noto to Wajima - Japan's Famous Agricultural Heritage Sites Photo：Ishikawa Prefecture, Shiroyone Senmaida In June 2011, Noto, Ishikawa was registered as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS). GIAHS is a system under which the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations recognizes areas with globally important traditional agriculture, forestry, and fisheries as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System. To date, 57 areas in 21 countries have been recognized by the organization. In Japan, there are 11 areas that have been certified. In particular, the Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces of Wajima are attracting attention as one of the most representative terraced rice fields in the Noto region. Sightseeing Spots in Noto Source :YouTube screenshot The video introduces some sightseeing spots in Noto, Ishikawa, where you can see the beautiful natural scenery of Japan. Notoro Trolley is a small railway that runs from Koiji Station to Sogen Tunnel, a distance of about 350 meters. It's shown at 1:05 in the video. From 1:36, you can see “Roadside Station Sakuratoge.” There's also “Salvia Road” with roughly 40,000 salvia plants on a 4 km stretch of road from the roadside station towards Suzu. You can see the bright red salvia in full bloom in the video. At Koiji Beach which can be seen at 2:05, there's the "Happiness Bell" which is said to bring happiness when rung by couples, as well as strange rocks and a torii gate built into the sea. This place is known as “Love Road.” Noto is famous for blueberries and strawberries as well. As shown at 2:21 in the video, you can experience blueberry and strawberry picking as well. At 2:33 a festival in Ishikawa Prefecture is introduced. The Tomobata Festival is designated as an intangible folk cultural asset of Ishikawa Prefecture. There are large flags, five colored streamers and boats with Tairyo-bata moving in formation. At 2:51, we see the Sode-Kiriko and Kozare Festivals, where portable shrines and giant lanterns are paraded through the town, and fireworks are set off at night. From 3:11 in the video, the “Ushitsuno Abare Festival” is introduced. As you can see in the video, the portable shrine is knocked to the ground and thrown down into the river to be purified by the gods. Other festivals in Noto Town, Ishikawa, include the Koiji Fire Festival, the Niwaka Festival, the Shiromaru Hikiyama Festival, and the Yanagida Festival, which excite a lot of people. Other Sightseeing Spots in Noto, Ishikawa Photo：Wajima, morning market There are other sightseeing spots in Noto, Ishikawa, such as 543.6 m tall Mt. Hachibuse, which is the second highest mountain in Okunoto, with a rare ancient beech forest, Torii Shoyu Soy Sauce Shop, built in 1908, which is listed as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan, Wajima Morning Market, where you can enjoy seafood and fruit from Noto, Mitsukejima, also called Gunkan Island due to the 28 meter tall rock that looks like a battleship ("gunkan" means battleship in Japanese), Chirihama Nagisa Driveway, the only beach in Japan where you can drive on the sandy shore, Ganmon, which is a cave created by the erosion of waves over a long period of time, Notojima Aquarium, where you can see fish that live around Noto, such as whale sharks, Rokkosaki, Tsukumo Bay, Mawaki Archaeology Museum, Mantenboshi, Matsunami Sake brewery, Yanagida Botanical Park, Concert Noto, Mawaki Site, Prefectural Notokenmin Tennis Center, and more! We hope you enjoy these sightseeing spots when you visit Noto! Don’t forget about the food when you visit Noto, either! There are many excellent dishes such as "Noto-don," using plenty of fresh seafood, "Kanazawa curry," which is popular nationwide, "Hanton rice," which is an omelette with fried fish on top, "Kanazawa oden," whose rich broth is to die for, "Komatsu udon," which was praised by Matsuo Basho, "Kaga crab rice," which uses the Kahako crab caught at the local fishing port, "Hakusan hyakusen," which is a healthy set meal, and "Kaga parfait," which is a locally produced sweet. Hotels in Noto, Ishikawa There are hot springs and popular hotels in Ishikawa, such as Wakura Onsen and Lamp no Yado Ryokan. The area around Kanazawa has many luxury hotels and is a great place to stay because of its easy access to tourist spots. One of the lesser-known places to stay is a campground on the coastline. You can enjoy camping under the beautiful night sky. Summary of Noto, Ishikawa Photo：Bentenjima in Koji, Noto-cho, Hōsu District, Ishikawa Prefecture Noto is a popular sightseeing area in Japan. This video, made from the perspective of someone enjoying life in the countryside, introduces various sightseeing spots in Noto, Ishikawa. Which one caught your eye? You can enjoy the ancient history, elegant Japanese tradition and culture of Kagahyakumangoku, the fisheries and agricultural resources nurtured by the ever-changing climate, and beautiful beaches. You can enjoy your own way of life in Noto, “The Home of Your Heart.” 【Official Website】Noto Town Hall https://www.town.noto.lg.jp/www/normal_top.jsp 【Official Website】Noto-cho tour guide - Noto Peninsula | Noto-cho, Ishikawa sightseeing portal site https://notocho.jp.e.ala.hp.transer.com/

Iheya Island, a Remote Island of Okinawa This video, titled "Beautiful Beach of Iheya Island! OKINAWA, JAPAN" (伊平屋島（沖縄離島）の絶景ビーチ前篇！OKINAWA,JAPAN), was uploaded by "K Japan Traveler." It shows spectacular views of Iheya Island (伊平屋島, Iheyajima), Noho Island (野甫島, Nohojima), and Izena Island (伊是名島, Izenajima), which are in northern Okinawa. As you can see in the video, Iheya Island has a beautiful cobalt blue ocean that you would never expect to find in Japan. A Look at Iheya Island Photo：Brown sugar, Okinawa Iheya Island is a long, narrow island located approximately 41 km north of the main island of Motobu, with a population of about 1,400 people including those on Noho Island. The island has specialties, such as dried fish, hitokuchi brown sugar, Terushi Rice, and Kachiwari brown sugar. There's also Kitase Rock, Yahe Rock, and a skerry called Erabu Rock around Iheya Island. "Torazu Rock" is a landmark of the island. You should visit Koshino Hiramatsu, Nento Hiramatsu and Mt. Kuba too. Things To Do on Iheya Island Photo：The ocean at Sugahama, Okinawa We recommend going sightseeing via rental car. The clear beaches, such as Kumaya Coast, Yonezaki Beach, Shioshitahama, and Kubayama Beach are the best place for sea bathing and fishing. From 0:37 in the video, you can see Kouri Island and Kouri Bridge, and from 1:40 in the video, you can see Noho Bridge, Noho Port, and a beautiful view. For sightseeing, there's Kumaya Cave, Iheya Tower, the Iheyason Board of Education History Ethnic Museum, Kubayama Light House, and Kami Ashagi. You can enjoy activities like the salt cruise at the World Salt Exploration Museum. For snorkeling to see coral reefs, book with Diving service North Island or Diving Shop JIN. Access to Iheya Island Photo：The ocean at Iheya Island, Okinawa Unfortunately, it's somewhat difficult to reach Iheya Island. You have to go from Naha Airport, on the main island of Okinawa, to Nakijin, and then take a ferry for 80 minutes. Because of that, there are not so many tourists, which means you can enjoy the natural scenery all to yourself! As you can see from 1:17 in the video, you can enjoy "Iheya Blue," a clear, blue sea, different from the main island of Okinawa. There are several hotels and restaurants on the island, so you can stay overnight as well as take a day trip, and there are buses running around the island, so as long as you check the bus schedules it's not so bad. Summary of Iheya Island Photo：The ocean at Iheya Island, Okinawa Iheya Island has beautiful beaches where you can feel the refreshing sea breeze. Check out the time schedule for the ferry, as well as prices and information about tides when you visit the amazing resort, Iheya Island! 【Tripadvisor】Iheya Island https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121620-d1373491-Reviews-Iheyajima_Island-Iheya_son_Shimajiri_gun_Okinawa_Prefecture.html

Koyasan - A World Heritage Site in Wakayama Prefecture This video, titled "［4K］高野山 KOYASAN temple JAPAN　 (World heritage)高野山観光 voyage viaggio KOYASAN Goma fire ritual 密教 世界遺産," was released by "Discover Nippon." It's a promotional video of Koyasan, a world heritage site in Wakayama prefecture in Japan's Kansai region. Koyasan is an ascetic school for Shingon Esoteric Buddhism that was opened by Kobo Daishi Kukai in Wakayama prefecture approximately 1,200 years ago. Explore the charms of Koyasan a power spot in Wakayama prefecture said to bring good fortune. Koyasan - A Sightseeing Destination in Wakayama Prefecture With 1,200 Years of History Photo：Kongobuji Temple, Koyasan The area around Koyasan in Wakayama Prefecture is a famous place revered as a sacred place for Japanese Buddhism along with Hieizan Enryakuji Temple located in Shiga, Kyoto. Kobo Daishi, the founder of the Shingon sect, built Koyasan in Wakayama in 816, more than 1,200 years ago. Kongobuji Temple, the head temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect, is a historic religious city with more than 100 temples. You can see Kongobuji Temple illuminated by lights after sunset at 5:57 in the video. In 2015, a commemorative service celebrating the 1200th anniversary of the founding of Koyasan was held. Sightseeing On Koyasan Photo：Danjo Temple There are many scenic tourist spots in the Koyasan area surrounded by nature. At the entrance to Koyasan, there is a bright, red-painted gate called Daimon Gate. Danjo Garan, located just beyond Daimon Gate, is the main hall where the main Buddhist services of Koyasan are held. On the approach to the inner temple, there are graves of famous Sengoku warlords, such as Nobunaga Oda, Takeda Shingen, the father and son graves of Takeda Katsuyori, Akechi Mitsuhide, Ishida Mitsunari, and the Toyotomi clan. An Enjoyable Sightseeing Trip to Koyasan Photo：Kongobuji Temple, Koyasan We highly recommend visiting the temples and taking in the beautiful scenery. You can find beautiful views at the temples during spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, and in the fall when the autumn leaves have changed to brilliant shades of red and orange. The weather is good in both spring and autumn, so you can enjoy sightseeing around all of the lesser-known spots of Koyasan as well. The precincts are quite large, so we recommend sightseeing by car if possible. Many people visit the temples of Koyasan and receive shuin stamps to commemorate their visit. Be sure to purchase popular souvenirs, such as the incense of Koyasan Daishido (高野山大師堂) and Mirokuishi steamed buns from Kasakuni (みろく石本舗かさ國). Summary of Koyasan, a Sacred Place For Buddhism in Wakayama Prefecture Photo：The Lotus Pond at Danjo Garan, Koyasan Koyasan, which was an ascetic school of Buddhism with a long history, has several shukubo (temple lodgings). You can always book a hotel in Wakayama prefecture for sightseeing on Koyasan, but if you want to try the invaluable experience of staying at a temple, we definitely recommend staying at a shukubo. ◆Koyasan Overview Information ◆ 【Address】Kongobuji Temple｜132 Koyasan, Koya, Ito District, Wakayama 648-0294 【Access】 ・Train：Nankai Koya Line: Get off at Gokurakubashi Station, take the Nankai Koyasan Cable and walk from Koyasan Station. ・Car：About 2 hours from central Osaka. Nearest highway exits: Wakayama IC (和歌山IC) on the Hanwa Expressway (阪和自動車道) and Habikino IC (羽曳野IC) on the Minami-Hanna Expressway (南阪奈道路) 【Admission Fee】Kongobuji Temple｜General：¥500, Elementary School Students：¥200 (※As of December 2019) 【Hours】Kongobuji Temple｜8:30 - 17:00 【Closures】No Holidays 【Parking】There are many parking lots nearby, however, it can be very busy on the weekends so please keep this in mind. 【Telephone】Kongobuji Temple｜0736-56-2011 【Official Website】Koyasan Shingon Sect Sohonzan Kongobuji Temple https://www.koyasan.or.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Koyasan https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121341-d1028543-Reviews-Mt_Koya-Koya_cho_Ito_gun_Wakayama_Prefecture_Kinki.html　

Introducing Tajima in Hyogo Prefecture This aerial video, titled “Tajima Sightseeing Promotion Aerial Walk- Tajima Sky Road（但馬観光プロモーション空中散歩～但馬空ノ道～）” was created by “e Video production.com.” There are a lot of tourist attractions where you can enjoy the beautiful landscape of Japan in the Hyogo area. Let's take a look at some of the recommended locations, activities, and food! This video is taken by drone, making it feel as if a stork is introducing Tajima. We hope you enjoy it! Refreshing Tourist Destinations in Tajima ©rikky_photography Modifying The most famous spot in the Tajima are is without a doubt the Takeda Castle Ruins (竹田城,Takedajou), located in Asago city. The castle is called "The Castle in the Sky" and many people come here to see fantastical scenery. The beautiful scenery is shown at the beginning of the video. We recommend stopping by Mikobata Senkoujo in Asago city. Amarube Viaduct (余部橋脚, Amarubekyoukyaku) “Sora-no-Eki” was built in the Meiji era (1868-1912) and it was used as a JR Sanin Main Line train station for about a century. Looking at the Sea of Japan from the Amarube Viaduct makes for a refreshing experience. Tourist Attractions in Tajima Photo：Stork Yabu city in Hyogo prefecture was selected as a National Strategic Special Zone, and is a center for agricultural reform. There are many rice paddies in the Tajima area, such as Bekku in Yabu city; the natural scenery here is breathtaking. In the spring, you can enjoy cherry blossom at Tarumi-no-Ozakura and the Tajima tulip festival. In fall, the leaves of the enkianthus perulati of Ankoku Temple (安国寺, Ankokuji) change to a deep red. In winter, you can enjoy winter sports in Kannabe. There are other popular tourist destinations, such as Hyogo Park of the Oriental White Stork, which reintroduces stork to the area, and Kamiyama Plateau, where you can enjoy outdoor leisure activities. The beautiful and seasonal views of tourist attractions in the Tajima area is introduced from 3:19 in the video. Enjoy the Geopark, and the Local Cuisine of Tajima! The Japan Sea coast in Hyogo prefecture is listed as a Global Geopark, and the natural scenery of the mountains and of the sea is truly a sight to behold. We highly recommend sea kayaking at Sanin Geopark. We recommend trying Tajima beef and queen crab, both of which are raised free range. These foods can be seen at 4:34 in the video. Izushi city is called " The Little Kyoto of Tajima." There is a local specialty here called Izushi Sara Soba, served in small portions on tiny dishes. Relaxing in Tajima Photo：Kinosaki Onsen There are places where you can relax in the Tajima area, such as Kinosaki Onsen. This hot spring is 1,300 years old, and you can enjoy a hot spring tour while wearing a yukata. Staying at a hotel at Yumura Onsen, a well-kept-secret in the Tajima area, and enjoying a relaxing overnight stay, is another great way to enjoy your trip. Summary of Tajima There are lot of hidden gems in the Tajima area, north of Hyogo prefecture. The 5-minute-long video is full of the charm of the Tajima area. Be sure to check it out! Enjoy delicious food and beautiful natural scenery in Tajima. Are you packing your bags yet? 【Official website】Kobe City Hall https://web.pref.hyogo.lg.jp/fl/index.html

Hoshinoya Karuizawa, a hotel in Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture, Japan, where you can stay for sightseeing in Karuizawa, video introduction This video, titled "HOSHINOYA Karuizawa: Our Guiding Principles" (星のや 軽井沢【コンセプト紹介】), produced by Jin Takano, introduces HOSHINOYA Karuizawa, a hotel in Karuizawa, Nagano. HOSHINOYA Karuizawa offers a precious opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture while enjoying a luxurious time. The hotel is a popular destination for sightseeing as well as resort weddings. The hotel is easily accessible from Karuizawa Station and parking is also available. Indulge in the supreme luxury of HOSHINOYA. If you are planning a sightseeing trip to Karuizawa or looking to stay at an onsen ryokan (Japanese hot spring inn), we recommend booking the longed-for HOSHINOYA Karuizawa. The video starts off with the words "Through the adoption of Western culture, Japan has been able to modernize. What kind of scenery might we have seen had Japan had stayed true to what made it unique? Perhaps an entirely different Japan." Enjoy the traditional beauty of Japan, which has been well received by travelers on review and comparison sites, at HOSHINOYA Karuizawa. A Splendid Stay Surrounded by Nature Source :YouTube screenshot HOSHINOYA Karuizawa itself is a magnificent resort town complete with a spacious pond and a wooded walkway where you can relax and enjoy the natural flowers. On the way to the park, there are many places of interest, such as teahouses and terraced rice fields, that offer visitors a chance to relax and unwind. You can also enjoy nature watching tours offered at Karuizawa National Wild Bird Sanctuary Forest near HOSHINOYA. The video offers you a glimpse at the natural scenery that can be enjoyed at the hotel. Information on Facilities: Three Different Room Types Source :YouTube screenshot Hotel HOSHINOYA Karuizawa's Japanese-style room, "Valley Village," is built around a vast waterfront area where guests can relax and enjoy the natural scenery of the four seasons. The most extravagant pavilion "Mizunami" is a wonderful room where you can spend time listening to the sound of flowing water and feeling the beauty of nature from the terrace. Other rooms include "Yamaroji" which has a Japanese-style hinoki bath, and "Niwaroji," which offers a tranquil Japanese garden view. Feel free to choose which one suits your taste. The hotel offers a wide range of amenities that will make your stay unforgettable. Fine Dining and Relaxing Baths Source :YouTube screenshot The open-air baths, a distinctive feature of luxury ryokan, are one of the attractions of HOSHINOYA Karuizawa. There are two facilities at Hoshinoya Karuizawa: Tombo no Yu and the Meditation Bath. There are also in-room baths as well. You can see the onsen at 2:05 in the video. You can also see the seasonally available "apple bath" in the video. The fragrant aroma of apples helps you feel at ease. After bathing in the large bathhouse, change into a yukata and enjoy a delicious Japanese meal. Now it is time to enjoy Japanese dinner. The restaurant "Japanese Cuisine Kisuke" at HOSHINOYA Karuizawa serves Japanese cuisine that uses local ingredients for both breakfast and dinner. You can see the cuisine at 1:45 in the video. Summary of HOSHINOYA Karuizawa As you can see in the video, Hoshinoya Karuizawa is a hotel where you can spend time relaxing in harmony with nature. The sound of the water in the Japanese garden, the sound of the hot spring, and the natural breeze provide the perfect background music for this video as well, giving it a sense of luxury. Enjoy visiting Shiraito Falls, Mt. Asama, Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, and Old Karuizawa Ginza Shopping Street in the area. Enjoy the natural beauty of Japan, hospitality, and leisurely sightseeing at HOSHINOYA Karuizawa, as well as exquisite meals and relaxing baths. ◆Information on HOSHINOYA Karuizawa Hotel◆ 【Address】2148 Nagakura, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano, 389-0111 【Access】15 minutes by taxi or shuttle bus from Karuizawa Station of JR East Shinano Railway 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】+81-267-45-6000 【Official Website】HOSHINOYA Karuizawa Hotel https://hoshinoya.com/karuizawa/en/ 【Tripadvisor】HOSHINOYA KARUIZAWA https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g325581-d1167308-Reviews-HOSHINOYA_Karuizawa-Karuizawa_machi_Kitasaku_gun_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html

日本で人気の観光地「北海道洞爺湖」の動画について 「洞爺湖町公式」が公開した「洞爺湖町観光PR映像（8分篇）」は、北海道のおすすめの観光地の洞爺湖を紹介している動画です。 アクティビティ、イベント、自然の景観など、洞爺湖町にはさまざまな魅力が多く紹介されています。 こちらの動画で北海道洞爺湖町の魅力を知れば、実際に旅行したいと思うはずですよ。 こちらの記事では、日本の観光地である北海道洞爺湖町の魅力を動画と共に紹介いたします。 日本で人気の観光地「北海道洞爺湖」の情報紹介 日本で人気の観光地である北海道洞爺湖町は、各国の首脳が集まって開催された洞爺湖サミットの場所として有名です。 さまざまなアクティビティを体験できる観光エリアとしてとても人気があります。 湖畔の雄大な景色のすぐそばにあるキャンプ場や、洞爺湖湖上クルーズの遊覧船は洞爺湖の自然を満喫できるのでおすすめ。 洞爺湖を美しさを堪能できるカヌー、絶景を眺めながら北海道の大地を歩く乗馬なども人気です。 ほかにも、ハイキング、サイクリング、登山やスノーモービル、スキー、スノーボード、スノーモービルなどのウィンタースポーツも洞爺湖町で楽しめます。 また、北海道洞爺湖町は魅力のあるホテルも充実しています。 「洞爺湖畔亭」「洞爺サンパレス」「ウィンザーホテル」は、温泉・グルメを楽しめるおすすめのホテルです。 宿泊プランもたくさん用意されているので、あなた好みをお探しください。 日本の観光地「北海道洞爺湖」のおすすめスポット 日本の観光地である北海道洞爺湖町では、観光スポットがたくさんあります。 日本有数のカルデラ湖をご覧になれる「洞爺カルデラ」、足湯につかりながら洞爺湖の四季を眺められる「洞龍（とうろん）の湯」、洞爺湖と島々を一望できる「サイロ展望台」などが人気のスポットです。 ほかにも、「洞爺湖町立火山科学館」「ツボ足健康通り」「有珠山噴火記念公園」「とうや・水の駅」「西山山麓火口散策路」「洞爺湖温泉の桜」もおすすめ観光スポット。 日本の観光地「北海道洞爺湖」の人気のイベント 日本の観光地である北海道洞爺湖町には、人気のイベントもたくさんあります。 北海道内で最大規模の花火大会の「洞爺湖ロングラン花火大会」は、450発もの花火が打ち上げられ夜の洞爺湖を鮮やかに彩ります。 洞爺湖温泉街のにぎわい広場に電飾が輝く「イルミネーショントンネル」も美しい景色を眺められるのでおすすめ。 インスタ映えする景色を撮影できますよ。 「洞爺湖温泉イルミネーションストリート」「洞爺湖マラソン」「水中花火108連発」「爺湖温泉夏祭り」「洞爺夏まつり」「洞爺湖温泉冬まつり」といった洞爺湖で開催されているイベントも注目です。 日本で人気の観光地「北海道洞爺湖」紹介記事のまとめ 北海道洞爺湖は自然の景色を楽しめる名所。 洞爺湖の観光スポットを巡れば充実した旅行になりますよ！

■ Table of Contents A Miraculous Story You Can Only Encounter in Engaru, Hokkaido The National Treasure: The Obsidian Stone Tool Assemblage of Shirataki What Is Obsidian? The “Volcanic Glass” That Enchanted Ancient Peoples What sort of place is the Shirataki Geopark Visitor Center? Learn about the natural beauty and enduring history of Engaru, Hokkaido Discover the Engaru Town Buried Cultural Heritage Center, Where National Treasure Obisidian Tools from Shirataki Are On Display How to Best Explore Geosites That Tell the Story of the Earth No. 8 Stream Outcrop (Obsidian Outcrop) Summit of Akaishiyama Ganbō Rock (Inkarushi) Tengudaira Observation Point Taihei Plateau Yamabiko Falls Muri Wind Cave Tourist Spots to Enjoy in Engaru | Must-See Highlights in Each Area ■ Engaru District｜Spectacular Flower & Nature Spots Cosmos Garden Taiyō no Oka Engaru Park Roadside Station “Engaru Forest of Okhotsk”｜A Station Full of Activities ■ Maruseppu District｜Forest Railways & Insect Paradise Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori｜Ride the “Amemiya 21” Maruseppu Insect Ecology Museum｜Insects Donated by SHO Aikawa ■ Ikutahara District｜Hands On Museums & Art World Chacha World｜A Dreamful World of Toys & Shadow Play Seiji Fujishiro Koropokkuru Shadow Play Museum｜A Fantasy of Light & Shadow Hidden Tourist Spots Recommended by Engaru Locals Miharashi Farm｜Idyllic Pastoral Scene Typical of Hokkaido Engaru Station｜Switchback That Enthralls Railway Fans A Side of a Self Defense Forces Town Engaru Town Gourmet & Local Products｜Taste the Blessings of the Land Gourmet Inspired by Obsidian Shirataki Potatoes｜Brand Potatoes Renowned for Sweetness & Texture Engaru’s Asparagus｜Green Gift Heralding Spring Engaru Town Event Calendar｜Festivals & Events Coloring the Seasons Taiyō no Oka Cosmos Festa Engaru Ganbō Summer Festival Recommended Lodging and Hot Springs in Engaru | How to Enjoy the Ultimate in Relaxation “Mauresan sō” Maruseppu Hot Spring in a Forest Resort Day Use Hot Spring “Pokke no Yu” “Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori Campground” Surrounded by Nature Distinctive Lodgings by District Accessing Engaru and How to Best Sightsee Around Town 【By Air】 【By JR】 【By Car】 【In Town Sightseeing】 Summary of Engaru Town’s Attractions｜A Call to a Special Hokkaido Experience Show More A Miraculous Story You Can Only Encounter in Engaru, Hokkaido Here lies the obsidian that became the stone tools that are Japan’s oldest National Treasure. This is also the only town in all of Hokkaido where a National Treasure and a Geopark come together. Formed through the merger of the three towns of Engaru, Maruseppu, Ikutahara and the village of Shirataki, Engaru is a destination where flowers and forests, railways and hotsprings, and timeless history all come alive. On this wide northern expanse, where Ezo deer and red foxes run free, you can experience both the romance of the ancient past and the living breath of nature. In this article, we’ll dive into Engaru’s unique charms, from information about obsidian and geoparks to an introduction of the local hot springs, sightseeing spots, and gourmet dining beloved by locals. Seasonal landscapes, such as Taiyō no Oka with its fields of flowers, forest railways weaving through the trees, frozen waterfalls glistening in winter and star-filled night skies, leave unforgettable impressions on visitors. Come to Engaru, and discover the “miraculous stories” that can only be found here, admist the warmth and insight of those who live here in harmony with the land. The National Treasure: The Obsidian Stone Tool Assemblage of Shirataki The Shirataki area of Engaru Town in Hokkaido is best known for possessing Japan’s oldest National Treasure, the Obsidian Stone Tools Excavated from the Shirataki Archaeological Sites. In Hokkaido, only two items are designated as National Treasures: the “Hollow Clay Figurine (Chūkū Dogū)” in Hakodate City and this Shirataki assemblage. Its rarity underscores the significant cultural value that Engaru Town proudly holds. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association The excavated stone tools date from the Paleolithic era, long before the Jomon period, approximately 30,000 to 12,000 years ago. That people of the time crafted sharp blades and hunting tools by skillfully processing obsidian testifies to their advanced techniques and wisdom. These items are not merely tools but precious cultural heritage that still convey human ingenuity and the breath of antiquity to us today. What Is Obsidian? The “Volcanic Glass” That Enchanted Ancient Peoples Obsidian is a natural glass formed when magma ejected from a volcano cools rapidly. Because obsidian breaks with fracture points as sharp as a knife, it was an ideal material for tools in ancient times. You can see this obsidian in the video from 0:40. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association The Shirataki sourced obsidian is especially high in quality, distinguished by its jet black luster and a translucent aesthetic. During the Paleolithic era, it was fashioned into knives and arrowheads. Archaeological evidence confirms that it was transported not just across Hokkaido but also to Honshu and Sakhalin, suggesting Shirataki’s role as a hub in ancient wide area trade networks. Even today, its beauty continues to captivate. At Engaru’s Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center, obsidian is on permanently display, allowing visitors to examine it up close, and enjoy its mysterious, distinctive glow as light passes through it. Truly, obsidian is not just stone, but a jewel born from the earth. What sort of place is the Shirataki Geopark Visitor Center? Learn about the natural beauty and enduring history of Engaru, Hokkaido In 2010, the “Shirataki Geopark” was certified by the Japan Geopark Network. A geopark is akin to an “outdoor museum”, a place where you can enjoy learning how the earth was formed, and how life and human culture emerged from it. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association At the heart of it is the “Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center”. Inside, exhibitions showcase the allure of Shirataki obsidian and the formation of the land through volcanic activity. Displays show how obsidian emerges from magma, and how people in the Paleolithic era crafted it into tools through interactive videos and models. The Geotour is held annually from July to October, and allows you to go inside actual geosites accompanied by expert guides to get an intimate look at the Earth's magnificent natural forces firsthand. A must for anyone interested in visiting geosites! The mountaineering tour to Mt. Akaishi, the obsidian’s birthplace, is especially popular. Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center Basic Information 【Address】〒099 0111 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Shirataki 138 1 【Hours】9:00–17:00 (last admission 16:30) 【Closed】Year end & New Year’s holidays 【Admission】Free 【Access】About 15 minutes on foot from JR Shirataki Station, about 5 minutes by car from Shirataki IC 【Official Site】Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center Discover the Engaru Town Buried Cultural Heritage Center, Where National Treasure Obisidian Tools from Shirataki Are On Display The Obsidian Stone Tools Excavated from the Shirataki Archaeological Sites were designated a National Treasure on June 27, 2023 (Reiwa 5). A total of 1,965 items were collectively designated: 1,514 stone tools and 451 sets of fragments for assembly. These artifacts are outstanding in both content and quantity among Japan’s Paleolithic relics, and are considered invaluable and significant even on a global scale. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association At the “Engaru Archaeological Heritage Center,” you can view the display of the National Treasure Obsidian Stone Tools from the Shirataki Archaeological Sites and learn about the process of tool making. The center also offers hands on experiences such as obsidian crafting, making it a perfect place to engage directly with the ancient past. Engaru Town Buried Cultural Heritage Center Basic Information 【Address】〒099 0111 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Shirataki 138 1 (2nd floor of Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center) 【Hours】9:00–17:00 (last admission) 【Closed】Year end & New Year’s holidays 【Admission】Adults: ¥320 (Groups: ¥260) High school students and younger: ¥160 (Groups: ¥130) * For participatory programs, additional learning fees apply: Adults ¥110, High school & younger (including preschoolers) ¥60 【Access】About 15 minutes walk from JR Shirataki Station, about 5 minutes by car from Shirataki IC 【Official Website】Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center How to Best Explore Geosites That Tell the Story of the Earth Within Shirataki Geopark, there are many “geosites”, points of interest where you can experience the landscapes, rocks, and human history shaped by the earth itself. From waterfalls and cliffs to obsidian outcrops and sweeping highland vistas, these are places where nature speaks its story. Shirataki’s geosites aren’t just for sightseeing; they are places where we are invited to wonder how rocks formed, or what life was like for people in ancient times. There are many spots that let you expand your imagination. Be sure to visit as many as you can! No. 8 Stream Outcrop (Obsidian Outcrop) One of Shirataki’s signature geosites, this outcrop represents one of the world’s largest obsidian deposits. The towering clif face, more than 15 meters high, clearly shows layers of obsidian lava, revealing traces of volcanic activity from about 2 million years ago. In Paleolithic times, obsidian was mined here and crafted into knives and arrowheads used in daily life. Visiting the site offers a striking understanding of the connection between humanity and earth, making it an inspiring spot not only for archaeology enthusiasts but also nature lovers. This geosite can be viewed in the video from 1:51. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099 0126 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Shirataki Oku Shirataki 【Viewing Method】Because it lies within national forest, free exploration is not permitted; you must join a tour held by the “Shirataki Geopark Promotion Association.” Summit of Akaishiyama The summit is strewn with large and small pieces of obsidian on its surface, which sparkle under sunlight. It resembles a galaxy spread across the sky. The hue and gleam shift with the angle of light, and each step reveals a different perspective. Geologically unique, tours along the Mt. Akaishi summit route are consistently popular. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Viewing method: Because it lies within national forest, free exploration is not permitted; you must join a tour held by the “Shirataki Geopark Promotion Association.” Ganbō Rock (Inkarushi) Rising about 78 meters above ground, Ganbō Rock, called Inkarushi in Ainu, meaning “place with a good view”, is a symbol of Engaru. The town’s name is derived from this word. Visible from nearly every corner of the town, the rock offers ever-changing perspectives depending on where you view it. According to legend, it was once an Ainu battlefield, lending a dramatic historic dimension to its natural beauty. A climb from base to summit takes only minutes, and the view is breathtaking. Ganbō rock has been recognized as one of Hokkaido’s Top 100 Natural Sites. Ganbō Rock (Inkarushi) is viewable from the video at 2:53. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Nishimachi 1 chōme 【Access】Approximately 5 min by car from JR Engaru Station Tengudaira Observation Point This gentle grassland was formed by a volcanic phenomenon known as “pyroclastic flow.” Behind it stand Tengudake and Hirayama, volcanoes of the Northern Daisetsu range, making for a majestic view. In early morning, a sea of clouds may spread, creating a dreamlike panorama. The observation point is showcased in the video from 2:33. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Shirataki Tengudaira 【Access】Approximately 5 min by car from Roadside Station “Shirataki” Taihei Plateau At the Taihei Plateau, a 360-degree view stretches as far as the eye can see. While the daytime scenery is great, the highlight is the summer night sky, free from any obstructions or artificial lights. Under the full starry sky, many stars appear rapidly, creating an atmosphere that is perfect for couples looking for a romantic outing. Between late May and early October, hay bales dot the fields, adding a quaint rustic charm. It is selected as part of the “Taihei Geopark Road” and included among “Hokkaido’s 100 Roads.” Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Taihei 【Access】About 40 minutes by car from Maruseppu IC Yamabiko Falls Standing about 28 meters tall, Yamabiko falls is notable in that you can view the water from behind, a feature that has earned it the nickname “Back-view falls”. In spring and summer, visitors can enjoy the refreshing spray set against vibrant greenery, while autumn brings a stunning contrast between the colorful foliage and the cascading water. In winter, the fall may freeze entirely, lending a magical ambiance as it transforms into a curtain of ice. With distinct charms for every season, Yamabiko Falls is a spot you’ll never tire of visiting. Yamabiko Falls appears in the video starting at 3:48. Photo: Yamabiko Falls, Engaru, Hokkaido Basic Information 【Address】Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri In winter, vehicle traffic is blocked at a gate about 2 km before the falls’ parking lot. From January through March, a “Yamabiko Falls Night Tour (illumination)” and daytime “Yamabiko Falls Observation Event” are held, during which the gate is temporarily opened. Muri Wind Cave (Murifūketsu) A mysterious geologic formation where cold air blows even in summer. Cold air accumulated underground escapes from cracks, making the surroundings cool even in midsummer. This unique environment allows alpine plants to grow naturally, making it like a “natural refrigerator.” It is a place to experience a minor miracle created by nature, and is recommended as an oasis from the summer heat. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Location】Maruseppu District, Engaru Town Tourist Spots to Enjoy in Engaru | Must-See Highlights in Each Area After experiencing the earth’s history at Shirataki Geopark, why not venture out into the other areas of Engaru? The four districts, Engaru, Shirataki, Maruseppu, and Ikutahara each offer unique attractions, from natural panoramas to cultural experiences. Based on popularity in local tourist association and travel sites, here are recommended must-sees for use in planning your trip. ■ Engaru District｜Spectacular Flower & Nature Spots Even in the town’s central area, nature thrives, and is brightened by seasonal flowers year-round. Home to one of Japan’s largest cosmos gardens and a new roadside station, along with many sights that truly reflect the spirit of Engaru. Cosmos Garden The symbol of tourism in Engaru is the cosmos garden at Taiyō no Oka Engaru Park. Covering a vast 10-hectare area, one of the largest in Japan, around ten million cosmos flowers bloom in the Cosmos Garden, entering their peak between late August and late September, creating a true “carpet of flowers.” About 20 varieties of cosmos are planted in the garden, and pink, white, orange blossoms sway in the wind to make for a natural masterpiece. The flower-picking experience is popular with families, while photographers and social media enthusiasts flock to the gardens for its perfect photo opportunities, especially at sunset when the fields glow. From the garden’s observation deck you can not only view the cosmos field but also gaze at distant mountain ranges. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Taiyō no Oka Engaru Park Taiyō no Oka Engaru Park spans 65 hectares and offers seasonal floral views from spring through autumn. Within, the “Shibazakura Park” area features moss phlox blooms (known as Shibazakura in Japanese), from mid to late May a pink carpet spread across the hill. In early bloom, Ezo cherry blossoms appear, and at peak season combine with simultaneously blooming tulips for a spectacular seasonal display. Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0407 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Marudai 70 1 【Admission】Adults ¥600, Elementary School Students ¥300 (only during cosmos bloom period) 【Hours】9:00–17:00 【Open Season】Late April to early October Taiyō no Oka Engaru Park (Cosmos Garden) Official Site Roadside Station “Engaru Mori-no-Okhotsk”｜A Station Overflowing with Activities Opened in December of Reiwa 1 (2019), Mori-no-Okhotsk attracted attention as Hokkaido’s first roadside station with an integrated ski resort. Adjacent to the Engaru IC on the Asahikawa–Mombetsu Expressway, it serves as the gateway to the Okhotsk region. From spring to autumn, visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, the longest zipline in Japan with a 25% slope, as well as a treetop adventure course. The treetop adventure follows wires and ladders between trees across about 400 m and includes 29 attractions, allowing guests to walk from tree to tree high above the ground. In winter, skiing is available, making Mori-no-Okhotsk a year round tourist destination. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association The high concentration artificial carbonated footbath “Mori-no-Okhotsk Ashiyu” is also popular. The roadside station’s restaurant uses local asparagus and Shirataki potatoes in many dishes. The standout is a black “Geo Curry” inspired by obsidian: a rich black curry containing chunks of meat shaped like obsidian that is as unusual-looking as it is delicious. Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0344 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Nogami 150 1 【Hours】9:00–18:00 【Closed】None Roadside Station Engaru Mori-mo-Okhotsk Official Site ■ Maruseppu District｜Forest Railways & Insect Paradise Deep in the heart of the forest, you’ll find a unique area where Hokkaido’s only forest railway still runs, alongside exhibits of fascinating insects. This is a hands-on destination where both children and adults can enjoy learning and playing together, making it perfect for a family trip! Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori｜Ride the “Amemiya 21” Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori is home to Hokkaido’s last operating forest railway. The steam locomotive, affectionately called “Amemiya 21”, was built in the Taishō era (1912-1926) and is an authentic forest railway engine. The two-kilometer journey through the park takes you slowly into the depths of the woodlands, an exciting experience even for those who aren’t train enthusiasts. From your seat you can enjoy vibrant natural scenery, especially in the autumn. The insect ecology museum also has rare insects that can be observed, and along with enjoying nature at the campsite provides a variety of experiences for all ages. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0213 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri 80 【Open Season】April 29 – late October Engaru Town Official: Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori • Steam locomotive “Amemiya 21” runs within the park from late April to late October (check official site for operating days) • Fare: Adults ¥800, ages 4+ ¥400 Engaru Town Official: Forest Railway Steam Locomotive Amemiya 21 Maruseppu Insect Ecology Museum｜Featuring Insects Donated by Actor Sho Aikawa A museum exhibiting live insects in ecological displays throughout the year. Highlights include the “Butterfly Plaza”, which features tropical butterflies flying freely year-round, and the “Entrance Hall”, where visitors can see live beetles and stag beetles from around the world. The star of the show is the Hercules beetle, the world’s largest beetle species. In the “Aniki no Mori” (Big Brother’s Forest), donated by actor Sho Aikawa, visitors can encounter rare specimens such as the massive Acteon elephant beetle and the dazzling rainbow stag beetle, widely regarded to be the most beautiful beetle in the world. Children and adults alike can become engrossed in the wide variety of fascinating displays. Photo: Hercules beetle Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0213 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri 68 【Closed】Tuesdays, Year end & New Year Engaru Town Official: Maruseppu Insect Ecology Museum ■ Ikutahara District｜Hands On Museums & the World of Art Ikutahara is a place where culture and creativity come alive. From wooden toys to shadow theater, this is the perfect place to relax, explore, and engage with art that sparks your imagination. Chacha World｜A Dreamland of Toys & Shadow Play Step into a museum showcasing wooden toys from around 40 countries! More than 10,000 pieces can be found, from intricate automata to puppets and classic nutcrackers. Toys are more than just displayed. There are numerous areas where visitors can build or play with toys, from puzzles like Cuboro or Capala to mechanical toys or blocks. Children love it, and adults often find themselves charmed as well. Finally, at the woodworking studio “Zevetto”, you can even craft your own toy from natural wood, for a unique personalized keepsake to remember your trip. Photo: Chacha World, Engaru Town Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0701 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Ikutahara 143 4 【Hours】 April–October: 9:30–18:00 November–March: 10:00–17:00 【Closed】 April–October: None November–March: Mondays (if holiday, closed next day) Year end & New Year holidays The woodworking studio “Zevetto” is closed Mondays & Thursdays Chacha World Official Site Seiji Fujishiro Koropokkuru Shadow Play Museum｜A Fantastical World of Shadow & Light This museum permanently exhibits works by the renowned Japanese shadow play artist Seiji Fujishiro. Step inside to immerse yourself in an enchanting world light and shadow bring his creations to life. Around 30 of his works are on permanent display, including the masterwork Kosai Rikuri, “Brilliant Colors”, which encompasses the entire wall of an elevator hall at 9 meters high and 18 meters wide, making it one of the largest shadow works in the world. Photography is prohibited inside, so the only way to experience the magic is to see it with your own eyes. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0701 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Ikutahara 143 4 (co located with Chacha World) Seiji Fujishiro Koropokkuru Shadow Play Museum Hidden Tourist Spots Recommended by Engaru Locals Famous spots are nice, but it’s also worth experiencing the lesser-known charms of Engaru that only locals might know. From tranquil pastures with grazing cows to a railway treasures beloved by railway enthusiasts, and even unique events reflecting the town’s strong ties to the Japan’s Self Defense Force, these offbeat and unique experiences can make your trip especially memorable. Miharashi Farm｜Idyllic Pastoral Scene Typical of Hokkaido On the outskirts of Engaru, Miharashi Farm offers the quintessential Hokkaido landscape of open fields, grazing cattle, and endless blue skies. Especially in summer, the contrast between the vivid green meadows set against the horizon offers a sense of freedom openness that simply cannot be found in the city. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0407 Engaru Town, Marudai Engaru Station｜A Switchback That Enthralls Railway Fans Engaru Station on the JR Sekihoku Main Line is a special station for railway enthusiasts, as it is one of the few stations in Japan that uses a switchback system, where trains must reverse before continuing in a new direction. The station platform offers a close look at this unusual maneuver, attracting observers from across the country. Photo: JR Sekihoku Main Line Engaru Station Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0415 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Iwamidōri Minami 1 3 3 A Self Defense Forces Town Engaru Town hosts the Land Self Defense Force Engaru Garrison and is known as a Self Defense Forces town. Every August, the garrison opens its gates for a festival featuring equipment displays, training exercises and mock battles, offering a rare close-up look at JSDF activities. The warm interaction between the townspeople and service members of the garrison highlights the close relationship between the base and local community, contributing to a unique community atmosphere. Engaru Gourmet & Local Specialties｜Taste the Bounty of the Land No trip is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Engaru’s food culture, rooted in its vast nature and history, offers plenty of distinctive dishes. From creative obsidian themed cuisine to the sweet, hearty “Shirataki Potatoes” grown in volcanic soil, to the crisp asparagus that proclaims the arrival of spring and summmer, each bite captures the essence of Engaru. Be sure to enjoy these special local flavors alongside your sightseeing! Gourmet Inspired by Obsidian Obsidian is a symbol of Engaru, and is celebrated in many creative obsidian-themed dishes. The most popular is the striking black curry at Roadside Station “Engaru Okhotsk-no-Mori.” With the deep black obsidian color of its roux and its chunks of meat shaped to look like obsidian shards, it leaves both a visual and culinary impression. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Shirataki Potatoes｜Brand Potatoes Renowned for Sweetness & Texture Grown in the Shirataki area, “Shirataki Potatoes” benefit from the local climate’s dramatic temperature shifts and rich volcanic soil, resulting in natural sweetness and excellent texture. Particularly the three varieties “Danshaku,” “May Queen,” and “Kita Akari” are famous for their fluffy texture. Around October each year, local restaurants hold the “Engaru Love Fair,” offering a variety of original dishes using Shirataki Potatoes. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Engaru Asparagus｜Green Gift Heralding Spring Asparagus is a signature flavor of Engaru in spring and summer. Nurtured by snowmelt and abundant sunlight, Engaru’s asparagus grows thick, juicy, and sweet. Engaru Asparagus is also commercially known under the brand “Engaru Nyokkīs”. Engaru is notable in that asparagus has not one but two harvest seasons, and the summer harvest, also known as Komorebi Asparagus, meaning “sun-dappled Asparagus”, is especially prized. From July to August, local restaurants host the “Artisanal Summer Harvest Asparagus Fair,” offering original dishes featuring summer asparagus. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Engaru Town Event Calendar｜Festivals for Every Season Throughout the year, Engaru comes alive with seasonal events that showcase the best of the region. From fireworks illuminating summer nights to cosmos festivals with live musical performances and more, these events seamlessly combine nature’s beauty with the warmth and energy of the local community to make memorable moments. Wrapped in a community’s warm atmosphere, these events are sure to add color and excitement to your trip. Taiyō no Oka Cosmos Festa On the first Sunday of September, the “Cosmos Festa” is held at the town’s vast blooming cosmos gardens. Visitors can admire fields of colorful flowers while enjoying various stage performances and entertainment. February 14 is Valentine’s Day, and in Japan, March 14 is “White Day”, while exactly six months later, September 14 is known as “Cosmos Day.” Every year seeds are carefully sown to ensure the flowers will be in full bloom for this special date. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Engaru Ganbō Summer Festival Held in July, this summer tradition features music parades, the impressive “1,000 Person Dance, and various other performances. vHeld in July, this summer tradition features music parades, the impressive “1,000 Person Dance, and various other performances. Many food stalls with local specialties open, and the streets are filled with energy, giving you a chance to feel the town’s vibrancy and festive atmosphere. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Recommended Lodging and Hot Springs in Engaru | How to Enjoy the Ultimate in Relaxation Engaru offers a range of lodging options such as Mauresan sō and North King, that run the gamut from forest resorts to cozy onsen inns. Many feature distinctive facilities such as alkaline hot springs, prized for their skin-softening qualities. After a long day of sightseeing or outdoor excursions, they soothe fatigue, help you recharge, and make your stay even more memorable. Forest Resort “Mauresan sō” at Maruseppu Onsen Nestled in the forest of Maruseppu, this resort hotel with its striking triangular roofs and white walls offers hot springs that are both gentle on skin and retain warmth well. The resort has a chic “Ezo Modern,” atmosphere, featuring warm wooden interiors with reading spaces brimming with books and relaxation lounges throughout. Lodging plans vary greatly, with six types of rooms including both Japanese and Western styles and special rooms with private baths, with a total of 25 rooms available. Nearby, three cottages made of Finnish pine offer their own private hot spring, giving the visitors the feeling of staying in a secluded villa. Meals feature fusion courses that make use of seasonal local ingredients such as fresh sashimi, beef from near Okhotsk, handmade soba, allowing visitors to fully savor Hokkaido’s bounty. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】099-0213 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri 172 Day Use Hot Spring “Pokke no Yu” Opened in September 2019, this day use hot spring features a soothing alkaline spring that warms easily and is known for leaving skin feeling soft and silky. Particularly noteworthy is the wood-fired Finnish sauna, a rare sight even in Hokkaido. Many visitors come just to experience it. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0213 Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri 177 “Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori Campground” Surrounded by Nature Equipped with auto sites, bungalows, and free camping areas, this campground is perfect for combining river activities with forest exploration. Suitable for families or solo campers, it offers a more rustic, immersive way method of experiencing Engaru’s natural beauty Under a blanket of stars, gather around a campfire then awaken to fresh air and birdsong, for a unique alternative to hotel or onsen stays with its own type of luxury. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0213 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri 80 Distinctive Lodgings by District Lodgings near Engaru Station Several hotels within walking distance of the station make ideal bases for tourists and business travelers alike. Shirataki District “Makiba Hokkaido Taro chan House” A pet friendly entire house rental. With a spacious dog run, sauna, and even horseback riding, it’s a rare facility. It’s popular with families and dog lovers wanting to enjoy Hokkaido travel with pets. Ikutahara District “Ikutahara Onsen Hotel North King” A lodging with flowing natural hot springs, day-use bathing, a bedrock sauna, and its own restaurant. Surrounded by tranquility, it’s perfect for relaxed bathing in a peaceful atmosphere. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Access to Engaru Town & How to Tour the Town Engaru, where you can immerse yourself in the great outdoors of Hokkaido, is accessible by air, train, or car. Flights from Memanbetsu, Asahikawa, or Okhotsk Mombetsu airports, taking the JR Sekihoku Main Line, or driving along scenic car routes are all viable options. Because the town’s attractions are spread over a wide area, renting a car is recommended for efficient sightseeing. Below is a quick guide to reaching Engaru and getting around. Access Methods to Engaru Town 【By Air】 The air gateways to Engaru Town are Memanbetsu Airport, Asahikawa Airport, and Okhotsk Mombetsu Airport. • From Memanbetsu: approximately 1h30m to 2h by car • From Asahikawa: about 2h to 2h30m by car • From Okhotsk Mombetsu: about 40–50 minutes by car While Kitami Bus links from Memanbetsu exist, buses are limited, so renting a car is more convenient for sightseeing. 【By JR】 Engaru is served by the JR Sekihoku Main Line, plus stations at Shirataki, Maruseppu, and Ikutahara. Use express or local trains. (At JR Engaru Station) • From Sapporo: ~3h30m via the “Okhotsk” limited express • From Asahikawa: about 2h • From Kitami: about 1h30m by local train 【By Car】 Driving gives you freedom and is ideal for sightseeing. Engaru lies along National Route 39, with good access from major cities. • From Sapporo: ~280 km (about 4h) • From Asahikawa: ~100 km (about 1h30m) • From Kitami: ~40 km (about 45 min) Many roadside stations and scenic spots lie along the route, turning the drive itself into part of the journey. 【In Town Sightseeing】 Because Engaru’s attractions are widely dispersed, a rental car is the most efficient way to tour. Approximate travel times between districts: • Engaru district ⇔ Shirataki district: ~30 km (about 40 min by car) • Engaru district ⇔ Maruseppu district: ~20 km (about 30 min by car) • Engaru district ⇔ Ikutahara district: ~15 km (about 20 min by car) Summary of Engaru Town’s Attractions｜A Call to a Special Hokkaido Experience Engaru Town is a special place in Hokkaido where Japan’s oldest National Treasure whispers ancient memories, Shirataki Geopark tells the earth’s story, and majestic nature shifts through the seasons in harmonious procession. Once formed by merging three towns and a village, this vast town encompasses four unique districts: Engaru, Shirataki, Maruseppu, and Ikutahara each offering different emotional experiences. Ten million cosmos blooms, obsidian tools of the late Paleolithic era, the nostalgic whistle of a forest railway winding through the trees, serene hot springs and camping under pure blue skies, and the heartfelt smiles of the people you will meet are all treasures awaiting your visit. Feel the timeless romance exerted by obsidian’s jet black luster. Walk geosites and listen to the earth’s pulse. At night, immerse yourself in the starlit sky, all in Engaru. Let this special experience leave a lasting imprint on your next Hokkaido journey. Japan’s oldest National Treasure and miraculous natural landscapes await you in Engaru. See you there! Official Sites Engaru Town Official Engaru Town Tourism Association Information in this article was current as of September 2025, prepared under the supervision of the Engaru Town Tourism Association. 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Introduction of aerial drone video of "Fuji Shiba Cherry Blossom Festival" in Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture The video "Aerial view of Fuji Shibazakura Festival taken with a drone（絶景 空撮 富士芝桜まつり Aerial view of Fuji Shiba-zakura Festival taken with a drone）" is a sightseeing video of the beautiful shibazakura flower field. The Fuji Shibazakura Festival is a sightseeing event where you can enjoy the scenery of over 800,000 shibazakura (moss phlox) in the vast area of Fuji Motosu Lake Resort, Susono Mt. Fuji, known as Japan's highest mountain. Many tourists from around the world gather to see the rich natural scenery here. This video introduces the vividly blooming shibazakura. Please enjoy the sights. What Kind of Event Is the Fuji Shibazakura Festival? Photo：Fuji Shibazakura Festival At the Fuji Shibazakura Festival venue, the beautiful pink and purple shibazakura are in bloom. You can see this at 0:08 in the video. It's like a carpet of flowers. The best time to see shibazakura is between April and May each year. Mt. Fuji covered with lingering snow in the spring and the lovely shibazakura that can be seen together on a clear day, is a beautiful sight, great for Instagram. If you want to see the beautiful scenery of the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, be sure to go to the observation plaza. Walking through the flower gardens in the warm, spring climate is sure to make for a lasting memory. There is also a popular sightseeing spot called the Observation Footbath where you can enjoy the scenery of Shibazakura while giving your feet a nice soak. A Mt. Fuji made of Shibazakura, which can be seen from 0:54 in the video, is as beautiful as the real thing. There are places to take photos as well. When is the best time to see Shiba-zakura? When is the "Fuji Shiba Cherry Blossom Festival"? Photo：Pumpkin Hōtō Noodles At the venue for the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, there's a gourmet event called the "Mt. Fuji Delicious Food Festival." If you enjoy beautiful scenery, sightseeing, and eating delicious, local cuisine, this is something you wont want to miss. The Fuji Shibazakura Festival is a very popular sightseeing event, so crowds are expected during peak bloom. To avoid congestion, we recommend taking a bus from Kawaguchiko Station to the venue. In addition to the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, it is also great idea to apply for a sightseeing bus tour that includes historic sights and exotic sightseeing facilities around Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Motosu. Around the Fuji Motosu Lake Resort, there are sightseeing spots such as Kamiku Isshiki Village Motosu District, Shingen Stone Building / Stone Base, Lake Motosu Campground, Lake Kawaguchi, Kawaguchiko Music Box Forest, Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway, Oishi Park, and Aokigahara Forest. You can visit these sightseeing spots after enjoying the Fuji Shibazakura Festival. Please enjoy local gourmet such as hoto noodles and torimotsuni. Fuji is usually at its best from mid-April to late May. Fuji Shiba Cherry Blossom Festival" will be held from April 13 to May 26 in 2024. Summary of the Fuji Shibazakura Festival Photo：Fuji Shibazakura Fesitval The Fuji Shibazakura Festival introduced in the video is a wonderful sightseeing event where you can enjoy the Japanese spring atmosphere at Mt. Fuji, a world heritage site. Be sure to check the blooming information and visit when it's in full bloom. The aerial footage of the flower field in the spring is so beautiful that you'll never get tired of looking at it. Please watch the video carefully and enjoy the beautiful scenery. ◆ Sightseeing information of Fuji Shibazakura Festival ◆ 【Address】212 Fujigane, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture Fuji Lake Motosu Resort 【Access】About 40 minutes by Shibazakura Liner Bus from Kawaguchiko Station, about 25 minutes by car from Kawaguchiko IC 【Admission fee】600 yen for adults, 300 yen for children (* as of November 2019) 【Opening Hours】8:00～17:00 【Regular holidays / Closed days】Open daily(during season) 【Parking】50 buses, 1500 regular cars 【Phone number】0555-89-3031 【Notes】Pets can enter the park by putting them in a pet bag or pet cart 【Tripadvisor】Fuji Shibazakura Festival https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1165976-d10019705-Reviews-Fuji_Shibazakura_Festival-Fujikawaguchiko_machi_Minamitsuru_gun_Yamanashi_Prefe.html

Hirosaki Park, Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture "Winter Blooming Sakura Light-up" Video Introduction This video, titled "【4K】2022 Hirosaki Park 'Sakura Illumination Blooming in Winter'" (2022年 弘前公園「冬に咲くさくらライトアップ」【4K】 2022 Hirosaki Park 'Sakura Illumination Blooming in Winter), was uploaded by "TheEAGLEBOM." Did you know that you can see cherry blossoms blooming in the snow? We hope you'll enjoy these winter cherry blossoms filmed at night at Hirosaki Park, located in Hirosaki, Aomori, in Japan's Tohoku region. Snow piles up on the cherry blossoms, which are imbued with a light pink hue. It truly looks as though these cherry blossoms are actually in full bloom. The snow gathering on the river's surface is reminiscent of cherry blossoms floating on the surface of the water, and stretches out like a carpet of petals. Keep thoughts of spring in your mind as you enjoy this supremely breathtaking scenery, dyed in a heart-warming pink. [Video] 2:39 – Snow Floating on the Water Like Cherry Blossoms Hirosaki Park and Its Popular Winter Cherry Blossom Illumination Photo：The winter cherry blossoms illumination at Hirosaki Park What exactly are these season-defying winter cherry blossoms? Well, in reality, this winter cherry blossom illumination makes use of the fact that snow accumulated on the branches of cherry trees makes it look like the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. This illumination event takes place during winter at Hirosaki Park, in Hirosaki, Aomori. The inspiration for the event came from a single photo taken by a member of the regional development team. The photo caused a stir on social media, with commenters unable to tell whether it was taken in spring or winter. The event carries with it the feelings of Hirosaki citizens who long to see the warming views of cherry blossoms in the cold of winter. Illuminated in pink in the moat surrounding Hirosaki Park, the subtle coloring almost makes it look as if the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and help onlookers to forget about the cold weather. To see the cherry blossoms, you'll need to arrive the same day the snow settles on the branches. The best days to see the cherry blossoms are on days when it snows heavily and it's not too cold or windy. [Video] 0:53 – What Inspired the Illuminations? What are the duration and hours of the Winter 2023-2024 "Winter Blooming Sakura Light-up"? Photo：Weeping cherry blossoms of snow at Hirosaki Park Winter 2023 will be held as follows.I hope you have a heartwarming time with your lover, family, and loved ones. The recommended time to visit the cherry blossom light-up in winter is from late December to mid-February. [Period] December 1, 2023 - February 29, 2024 *The lights may be turned off from December 1st to 7th due to equipment adjustment. [Lighting time] Sunset to 21:00 *Extended from December 22nd to January 3rd, and from February 9th to 14th until 23:00 [Parking] Hirosaki City Tourist Hall/Underground Parking Lot (24 hours in and out) 2-1 Shimo-Shirogane-cho, Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture (Otemon/Hirosaki City Hall Headquarters Soba) *Parking is free for one hour [Parking] Hirosaki City Tourist Hall/Underground Parking Lot (24 hours in and out) 2-1 Shimo-Shirogane-cho, Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture (Otemon, near Hirosaki City Hall headquarters building) *1 hour free parking Hirosaki City Hall (7:00~21:30) 1-1 Kamishiroganmachi, Hirosaki City (Otemon soba) *1 hour free parking *Please note that you cannot leave the warehouse after 21:30 just before lighting up ends Outair Motoko-cho (24-hour entry and exit allowed) 2 Motoko-cho, Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture (near the main building of Hirosaki City Hall, Otemon) Springtime at Hirosaki Park – Spectacular Cherry Blossom Illuminations! Photo：Hirosaki Park cherry blossom illumination, Aomori Prefecture From the end of April and throughout Golden Week (a period of around one week at the end of April/beginning of May containing a number of Japanese national holidays), Hirosaki Park hosts the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival" (弘前さくらまつり, hirosaki sakura matsuri), timed to coincide with the cherry blossom season. This cherry blossoms festival at Hirosaki Castle has been touted by some as the best in Japan. The rooftop of Hirosaki City Hall - usually inaccessible to the public - is opened up, and the festival receives over 2 million visitors each year. While the location of the "cherry blossoms heart" popular on Japanese social media is sadly not in the public domain, we hear that there will be heart shaped tree stumps placed to lead you in the right direction. Be sure to keep an eye out for it as you explore the park! What's more, during the cherry blossoms festival there's a special train linking Hirosaki to other famous cherry blossoms spots around Japan's northern Tohoku region. Why not take a ride and go on a tour to view the cherry blossoms? [Cherry blossoms Festival Opening Dates] 　Late March–Early May (Generally held to coincide with the blooming of the cherry blossoms) [Hours] 　Special nighttime lighting (illuminations): Sundown – 8:30 p.m. 　※Subject to change depending on cherry blossom blooming conditions. The Colorful Autumn Illuminations of Hirosaki Park Are a Must-See as Well! Photo：Hirosaki Park's autumn illumination In the fall, the autumn leaves that have for so long added a touch of color to Hirosaki Castle, the symbol of this ancient Japanese city, are brightly illuminated. The elegant lights, which are as beautiful as any other seasonal light up, are sure to impress. While enjoying the various events and stalls, visitors can catch a glimpse of Hirosaki's history by viewing the old castle in its colorful autumn attire and the autumn leaves adorning the castle walls. [Hirosaki Castle Chrysanthemum and Autumn Leaves Festival Dates] 　Late October–Early November [Hours] 　Sundown – 8:00 p.m. And as the 1000 Japanese maples and 2600 cherry blossom trees take on the colors of fall, make sure you don't forget to check out the giant 300-year-old ginkgo tree, "Neagari Icho" (lit. lifted-root ginkgo, so named for its exposed roots). Hirosaki Park Illuminations: Roundup With illumination events in each season, Hirosaki Park, located at Hirosaki Castle, a symbol of the historical Japanese city, adds a layer of excitement to the beauty of its bountiful nature. This place deserves a spot in any travel itinerary, no matter the season, as it's one of the most popular places to visit in Japan's Tohoku region. Take your family, friends, or loved one with you, and breathe in the history in this vast park! ◆Hirosaki Park◆ 【Address】1 Shimoshirogane-cho, Hirosaki, Aomori 【Admission Fee (for paid areas）】 　[Hirosaki Castle center/northern section] Adults: ¥320 | Children: ¥100 　[Hirosaki Castle Botanical Garden] 　Adults: ¥320 | Children: ¥100 　[Discount bundle tickets for the above areas] Adults: ¥520 | Children: ¥160 【Hours】Please check the official website for opening times for paid areas. 【Access】 　On foot from Hirosaki Station (弘前駅, hirosaki-eki): Around 30 minutes 　Taxi from Hirosaki Station: Around 10 minutes 　From Hirosaki Station by bus: 4 minutes on foot when disembarking from the City Hall (市役所前, shiyakushomae) 【TripAdvisor】Hirosaki Park

Video introduction of "Isumi Railway" & "Kominato Railway" rape blossoms and cherry blossoms in Boso Peninsula, Chiba Prefecture This video, titled "[4K UHD] Kominato and Isumi Railways in Spring (shot on Samsung NX1)" ([ 4K UHD ] 春の小湊鉄道といすみ鉄道 - Kominato railway and Isumi railway in Spring - (shot on Samsung NX1), was uploaded by "AQUA Geo Graphic." The video shows the Kominato Railway (小湊鉄道, kominato tetsudo) and Isumi Railway (いすみ鉄道)—which run across Chiba prefecture's Boso Peninsula—in spring. No matter your age or where you come from, this is definitely a place you'll want to check out, especially if you’re a train enthusiast. Visible in the window across from the train driver are the figures of excited children. Check out this uplifting three-and-a-half-minute video, filled with pink cherry blossoms and vibrant yellow rapeseed blossoms. [Video] 1:28 - Cherry Blossoms, Rapeseed, and the Smiling Faces of Children The Difference Between the Isumi and Kominato Railways Photo：Kominato Railway The Isumi Railway covers around 27 kilometers on the JR Boso line (JR房総線, JR Bososen), stretching from Ohara station (大原駅, ohara-eki) to Kazusa-Nakano station (上総中野駅, kazusanakano-eki). The Kominato Railway makes up around 39 kilometers of the JR Uchibo line (JR内房線, JR uchibo sen) between Goi station (五井駅, goi-eki) and Kazusa-Nakano Station. The two railways meet at Kazusa-Nakano station, and if you switch trains there, it's possible to ride across the entire Boso peninsula—just the right distance for a railway day trip. There's even a "Boso Coast to Coast Commemorative Ticket" (房総横断記念乗車券, boso odan kinen joshaken) available as a souvenir via a collaboration between the two companies. If you're visiting from Tokyo, it should take a little under an hour via the JR Sobu Rapid (JR総武快速線) and Uchibo lines. Arriving at Chiba's Goi station, a walk across the bridge will take you to the local line (the Kominato railway) and the start of your journey. In a location that can be enjoyed as a day trip from downtown Tokyo, those with train-loving kids can have an enjoyable day out as well. Cherry Blossoms & the Nanohana Ressha on the Isumi Railway Most famous amongst the Isumi railways trains is the "Nanohana Ressha," (菜の花列車, lit. 'Rapeseed Train'), whose rolling stock is yellow, just like the rapeseed blossoms. The best time to see the rapeseed that lines the railway and is famous for its incredible views is between early March and early April of each year. From late March, the cherry blossoms are in season, and by early April you can see beautiful scenes of cherry blossom in full bloom. Keep an eye on the cherry blossom bloom maps and enjoy both cherry blossoms and rapeseed blossoms from the window of a train. The Best Spots to Photograph the Isumi Railway's Rape Blossoms & Cherry Blossoms! Photo：Isumi Railway On the Isumi Railway between Kazusa-Azuma Station (上総東駅, kazusa azusa-eki) and Nittano Station (新田野駅, nittano-eki), Shiromiaoka Station (城見ヶ丘駅, shiromigaoka-eki) and Otaki Station (大多喜駅, otaki-eki), as well between as Fusamoto station (総元駅, fusamoto-eki) and Nishihata Station (西畑駅, nishihata-eki), you can see rapeseed blossoms and cherry blossoms competing for the spotlight. See if you can't capture a shot of the pinks and yellows under the blue skies of spring. Rapeseed blossoms bloom along 15 kilometers of the Isumi Railway's 27-kilometer span, meaning you can enjoy them along almost the entire length of the track. If you're a train enthusiast, finding the best photo spot is part of the fun! The Isumi Railway is often compared to Moomin Valley in Japan. The comparison originates from the Moomin Train (ムーミン列車, mumin ressha) which operated on the line until March 2019. Apparently at the time there was a Snufkin Lake, and statues of popular characters such as the Moomins, Little My, and Snufkin, in addition to the Moomin-themed trains. There's no doubt that the lush scenery was a good match for the world of the Moomins as well. The Best Spots to Photograph the Kominato Railway Photo：Kominato Railway's Satoyama Romantic Train Kominato Railway's Satoyama Romantic Train (里山トロッコ, satoyama torokko) is hugely popular with tourists. Rail enthusiasts gather from across Japan to get a photo of the sightseeing train against the backdrop of the rapeseed blossom fields. A particularly notable photo spot is the Ishigami Rapeseed Blossom Field (石神菜の花畑, ishigami nanohana-batake), which allows visitors to take some really incredible photos. ■ Ishigami Rapeseed Blossom Field | Chiba, Ichihara, Ishigami, 225 If you get off part way along the Kominato Railway, you'll find Yorokeikoku Station (養老渓谷駅, yoro keikoku eki), where there is a footbath that is available free of charge when using the railroad. It's a 15-minute walk from the station. People visiting by car can use the parking lot by the road—from which there are several superb photo spots within a few minutes' walk—and wait for the sightseeing train. Incredibly, the sightseeing train actually slows down as it passes through the middle of the rapeseed blossom fields—a show of consideration for railway enthusiasts. [Video] 2:18 - The Sightseeing Train Passing Through Rapeseed Blossom Fields Additionally, within the wooden station building of Tsukizaki Station (月崎駅, tsukizaki-eki) is Mori Radio Station (森ラジオステーション, mori rajio suteshon), a popular tourist attraction also known as "Mori Radio" (森ラジオ, mori rajio). The building, which was originally a filling station for railroad maintenance workers of the Kominato Railway, was exhibited as an art installation covered with moss and wildflowers during the Naka-boso International Art Festival's (中房総国際芸術祭, nakaboso kokusai geijutusai) Ichihara Art x Mix (いちはらアートxミックス, ichihara ato x mikkusu) event in 2014. Its atmospheric appearance makes it a popular spot for tourists even now. [Video] 2:53 - Mori Radio Station, Covered in Moss and Wild Grasses Another recommended stop on the Kominato Railway is Itabu Station (飯給駅, itabu-eki). Known as the "world's largest toilet," the spot is quite popular during the daytime. It's a single toilet, surrounded by glass walls that was created as an art installation. At night, the station is popular as a place to take photos of the illuminated cherry blossoms along with the trains. Sightseeing Along the Kominato and Isumi Railways While the cherry blossoms and rapeseed are of course beautiful, they're best enjoyed between visits to various tourist attractions along the railway lines. Below is a list of several tourist attractions you can consider visiting along the railways. Yoro Valley (Yorokeikoku Station) Yoro Valley (Yoro Gorge) is one of the most famous hot spring areas in Chiba Prefecture, and is located roughly in the middle of the Boso Peninsula. The valley is home to numerous waterfalls with popular hiking courses and during the fall, it's a great place to enjoy the autumn leaves. Kasamori Temple (Kazusa-Ushiku Station) This temple sits atop a large boulder and features a unique architectural style. Founded in 784 AD, the temple has been dubbed the "Temple of Prayer and Fragrance" thanks to the lovely scent of the flowers that cover the temple grounds. Hours: April - September: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, October - March: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Admission Fee: Adults: 300 yen, Children: 100 yen Otaki Castle (Otaki Station) Otaki Castle is said to have been built in 1521 by Honda Tadakatsu, one of the "Four Heavenly Kings of the Tokugawa." Although the castle was demolished in 1871, the ruins of the castle were designated as a historical site in 1966 and the castle tower was rebuilt in 1975. Hours: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Closures: Irregular (Please check the official website) Admission Fee: Adults: 200 yen, High school and university students: 100yen, Elementary and middle school students, seniors (65+), and those with disabilities: Free There are many other spots along the railway lines to check out, so if you see something that looks interesting, don't be afraid to hop off the train and explore! Summary of the Kominata and Isumi Railways in Spring The sight of trains reflected in rice paddys and the spring rapeseed and cherry blossoms featured in the video are enough to capture anyone's heart, railway fan or not. There are plenty of wonderful hotels and ryokan (Japanese style inns) in the surrounding area. Even if you usually travel by car, consider booking a trip across the Boso peninsula by train! Take in the fresh spring air and relaxing scenery from the window of your carriage.

COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always holding photo contests. This time, we have selected photos of Tokyo from among the many photos submitted to our past photo contests. In addition to the famous city of Tokyo and tourist spots that everyone has heard of, we'll also introduce photos of spectacular natural scenery that you'd never expect to find in Tokyo. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that introduces the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Our photo contests allow you to participate and even win with photos taken via your smartphone! Stick around to learn more! ■Table of Contents - Tokyo in Past Photo Contests  Tokyo Disney Sea Hotel MiraCosta  Omoide Yokocho  Ginza at Night  Tokyo Station at Night  Tulips at Showa Kinen Park  Kozushima Island  Ginkgo trees at Hikarigaoka Station  Tokyo Skytree  Tokyo Tower  An Illuminated Higo-Hosokawa Garden - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Current Photo Contest - Summary of Tokyo in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Tokyo in Past Photo Contests We have selected some of the best photos of Tokyo, the capital of Japan, from among the many wonderful entries that convey the charms of Japan. We'll also introduce some popular photo spots as well! COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: moekyun Location: Tokyo Disney Sea (Urayasu, Chiba) The Charms of Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta The biggest attraction of Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta is that it is the only hotel integrated with the parks at Tokyo Disney Resort. Inside the classic Italian-style hotel, every corner is decorated with Disney themes, allowing guests to enjoy the atmosphere of the dreamland while staying at the hotel. The hotel has been attracting Disney fans for approximately 20 years since its opening, and even today, reservations are difficult to secure. A Video Article About Tokyo Disneyland's Official Hotel Video article 1:48 Enjoy a Full Day of Dreams and Magic at the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel! This Is a Hotel That You'll Remember for a Lifetime! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: jaco Location: Omoide Yokocho (Shinjuku, Tokyo) Omoide Yokocho, a Popular Tourist Attraction Shinjuku Nishiguchi Shopping Street is also known as "Omoide Yokocho" (Memory Lane). Omoide Yokocho is a culinary spot in the Shinjuku Nishiguchi area, where all sorts of bars and eateries are packed into small alleyways. The charm of this area is that you can enjoy delicious food and drinks at reasonable prices in a nostalgic atmosphere. It is also the unfortunate nickname of "Shoben Yokocho" (Piss Alley) because there used to be no toilets in the alley... Nevertheless, the Showa-retro atmosphere, reminiscent of Japan's Showa Period, is very popular among foreign tourists to Japan. A Video Article About Kabukicho in Shinjuku, Tokyo Video article 3:34 The Beautiful Neon Glow of Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo, the City That Never Sleeps! Be Intoxicated By the Mysterious Atmosphere of the Best Shopping District in the East! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 渡邉亮 Location: Ginza at Night (Chuo, Tokyo) Ginza, a Popular Tourist Attraction While Ginza is known as a sophisticated district lined with brand-name stores, it also offers a sense of Japanese history and tradition, with places like Kabuki-za Theater and Mitsukoshi Department Store. Ginza is a popular tourist attraction in Tokyo where visitors can enjoy the old and the new of Japan at the same time. On holidays, the main avenue becomes a pedestrian paradise, allowing visitors to enjoy shopping, eating, and drinking in a relaxed atmosphere. A Video Article About the Pedestrian Paradise in Chuo, Tokyo Video article 14:34 Take a Leisurely Stroll Through Tokyo at Ginza's Pedestrian Paradise, "Hokoten"! Check Out This Video to Learn About One of the Most Crowded Shopping Districts in Japan! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Mom Diamond Location: Tokyo Station at night (Chiyoda, Tokyo) Highlights of Tokyo Station, a Popular Tourist Attraction Tokyo Station is home to many spectacular retro buildings that evoke a sense of history, including the beautiful brick Tokyo Station Marunouchi Station Building. The beauty of these buildings stands out amongst the stylish modern buildings, as if time has stopped there. When traveling around Tokyo, be sure to stop by and take pictures of the photogenic buildings that have been a part of Tokyo's history for centuries. A Video Article Showing Aerial Views of Tokyo and Kanagawa at Night Video article 4:34 Amazing Aerial Footage of Tokyo and Yokohama! Enjoy the Nightscapes of these Cities in Beautiful 8K! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 山本 こころ Location: Tulips at Showa Kinen Park (Tachikawa, Tokyo) Highlights of Showa Kinen Park, a Popular Tourist Attraction At Showa Kinen Park in Tachikawa, Tokyo, the autumn foliage is at its best from late October to late November, and a festival celebrating the autumn leaves takes place at the same time. Highlights of the festival include the 300-meter-long golden tunnel of Ginkgo Tress, and the beautiful autumn leaves in the Japanese Garden decorated with different varieties of maples around a large pond. In the evening, the garden is illuminated as well. A Video Article About Show Kinen Park, a Popular Tourist Attraction Video article 2:38 Gorgeous Scenery and Only 30 Minutes Away From the Center of Tokyo! Beautiful, Fluttering Cherry Blossoms, and Colorful Tulips in Tachikawa's Showa Kinen Park! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: CHU_PON Location: Kozushima Island (Tokyo Islands) Highlights of Kozushima Island, a Popular Tourist Attraction Kozushima Island, known as a mysterious island among the seven Izu islands, is famous for its beautiful scenery and clean spring water, so much so that it has been selected as one of the Top 57 Famous Spring Waters of Tokyo, one of the One Hundred Famous Mountains of Flowers, and one of the 100 Views of New Tokyo. Visitors can enjoy trekking and swimming amidst overwhelmingly beautiful nature. Take a ferry for a 12-hour ride from Tokyo and revitalize your body and soul in the great outdoors. A Video Article About Izu Islands' Niijima Video article 1:59 Izu Islands' "Niijima": A True Paradise Only 35 Minutes From the City. Its Scenic Views Will Have You Wondering If You're Really in Tokyo YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: KEN.T Location: Ginkgo Trees Around Hikarigaoka Station (Nerima, Tokyo) Highlights of Hikarigaoka Park, a Popular Tourist Attraction Hikarigaoka Park, the largest park in Tokyo's Nerima Ward, is an urban park with a day campsite, barbecue area, bird sanctuary, archery range, pond, swimming pool, and a children's plaza. Children and adults alike can enjoy a variety of outdoor sports and activities here. The ginkgo trees that create a golden tunnel in autumn and the autumn leaves around the park are just some of the highlights to be found in the park. A Video Article on Hikarigaoka Park, a Place to View Autumn Leaves in Tokyo Video article 3:54 Autumn in Tokyo – Enjoy a Collaboration of Nature and Art With a Virtual Walk Through the Ginkgo Trees at Hikarigaoka Park via Video YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: naomi Location: Tokyo Skytree (Sumida, Tokyo) Highlights of Tokyo Skytree, a Popular Tourist Attraction Tokyo Sky Tree is the world's tallest radio tower at 634 meters and was built in 2012 as a new symbol of Japan. Its appearance changes every day, and it's also lit up specially for seasonal and special events. The night view of Tokyo from the observatory, the tallest in Japan, is breathtaking! The panoramic night view of the Tokyo metropolis seen from the observation deck at 450 meters in the air, the highest point in the tower, is truly remarkable. A Video Article About Asakusa, Tokyo Video article 6:34 Take a Rickshaw Ride Through the Streets of Asakusa and Discover a Side of Tokyo You Never Knew Existed! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: koichi hakuchuu Location: Tokyo Tower (Minato, Tokyo) Highlights of Tokyo Tower, a Popular Tourist Attraction Tokyo Tower, with its elegant and captivating design, continues to be loved by the public as a symbol of Tokyo. At night, the tower is brilliantly illuminated, giving it a different and more beautiful appearance than in the daytime. When viewed from close up, the illumination of Tokyo Tower gives a sense of power, and when viewed from afar, the night view of Tokyo gives a more sophisticated impression. The tower is in an attractive spot where you can enjoy various views depending on your vantage point. A Video Article About Tokyo Tower Video article 4:30 Tokyo Tower, the Symbol of Tokyo, Is Introduced by a Former Popular AKB48 Member! 60 Years of Being Loved by the Japanese People! The Highlights of the Popular Attraction! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: KEN.T Location: An Illuminated Higo-Hosokawa Garden (Bunkyo, Tokyo) Highlights of Higo-Hosokawa Garden, a Popular Tourist Attraction Higo-Hosokawa Garden, located in Mejirodai in Tokyo's Bunkyo Ward, is a strolling pond garden that visitors can appreciate as they walk around the central pond. Boasting an area more than 1.4 times the size of Tokyo Dome, this beautiful garden, which retains the atmosphere of the Edo period, offers beautiful seasonal views, including plum blossoms in the spring and illuminated autumn leaves in the fall. The garden is used not only for sightseeing and walks, but also for pre-wedding photo shoots. A Video Article About Popular Places to View the Autumn Leaves in Tokyo Video article 18:17 12 Popular Spots To Enjoy Autumn Leaves in Tokyo! The Imperial Palace, Shinjuku Gyoen, Hibiya Park, and More! Tons of Places To Enjoy Autumn Leaves in the Heart of Tokyo! YouTube Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that showcases the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS Anyone can enter COOL JAPAN VIDEOS' photo contests! Below are some of the features of our contests. ・On top of single-lens reflex cameras and digital cameras, photos taken with smartphones and other devices can also be submitted. ・Each person can submit as many photos as they like during the contest period. ・Editing of images, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Here you can find all of the past photo contest winners in one place. You can also see the prizes for each contest, as well as the locations where the photos were taken and the judges' critiques. Click here to see past photo contest winners Text only Photo Contest Results - COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Winning Photos - Discover the Charms of Japan! Current Photo Contest The following is information about the current photo contest. [Ongoing From March2024] The 22th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Spring in Japan Submission period: March 1, 2024 12:00 AM – April 30, 2024 11:59 PM (JST) Prizes: ■Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card (1 Winner) ■Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card (5 Winners) Spring in Japan Photo Contest Landscape Photography Summary Did you enjoy these landscape photos from past photo contest entries? Some of these landscapes can only be seen in specific conditions. Japan is full of rich nature, historical locations, and seasonal events! Share your photos with the world and help showcase the beauty of Japan through COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! Related Articles Text only Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Heartwarming Photos That Will Put a Smile on Your Face! Text only Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Autumn in Japan Text only Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Showcasing the Different Views of Mt. Fuji Text only Hokkaido in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: From Popular Sightseeing Spots to Exotic Animals, Discover the Beauty of Japan's Northernmost Prefecture! Text only Tohoku in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: Hot Springs, Festivals, Snowscapes, and More – 10 Beautiful Photos of Japan's Tohoku Region! Text only Kyoto in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Kyoto, the Ancient Capital of Japan, and Its Most Popular Tourist Attractions! Text only Tokyo in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Featuring the Charms of Tokyo, the Capital of Japan + Popular Tourist Attractions! Text only Winter in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Capturing the Beauty of Winter in Japan. Snowy Landscapes, Glittering Illuminations + More! Text only Kansai in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Spectacular Views of Japan's Kansai Region. From Night Views to Traditional Events, Discover the Best Photo Spots in Kansai! Text only Cherry Blossoms in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Amazing Views of Cherry Blossoms, from Castles and Temples to Rows of Cherry Blossom! .separation_line { border-width: 0 0 8px; border-style: solid; border-image: url('data:image/svg+xml,') 0 0 100% repeat; width: 216px; margin:auto; margin-bottom: 50px; }

鹿児島県奄美市エリアの絶景をご紹介！ こちらの「徳之島観光「島たび」（ロングバージョン）」は、鹿児島県の南に位置する奄美群島の一つである徳之島の絶景が堪能出来る動画となっています。 雄大な自然の景色が特徴の徳之島。 日本の自然を思う存分に堪能できる絶景観光スポットとなっています。 また、日本の歴史や文化を知ることが出来る建造物も数多くあり、島唄、美味しいご当地グルメ等、見どころが目白押しです。 今回はそんな日本の鹿児島県奄美群島の一つである徳之島について、詳しく紹介をしていきます。 徳之島には珍しい動植物が沢山！ 奄美群島の中でも二番目に大きいとされる徳之島は、『東洋のガラパゴス』と言われるほどに数多くの貴重な動植物を有しています。 森の中には、徳之島固有種でもあるアマミノクロウサギが、海には最大の野生動物とされるザトウクジラや日本一と言えるくらい多くのウミガメが生息していたりと、本州では中々お目にかかれないような動物が多く生息しており、中には絶滅危惧種の生物もいます。 鹿児島県奄美群島・徳之島の観光名所！ 奄美群島・徳之島周辺の観光スポットは、いずれも自然が織りなす美しい絶景が魅力。 インスタ映えする景色には事欠きません。 現在の天皇陛下が皇太子時代に訪れたことが由来で、動画2:48に紹介されている畦プリンスビーチ、動画4:25で紹介されている樹齢300年以上のソテツで構成された金見崎ソテツトンネル、動画5:03で紹介されている釣りやダイビングの地として有名なトンバラ岩、徳之島の魅力溢れる断崖絶壁の地である犬の門蓋など、多くの観光スポットが存在します。 特に動画6:23で紹介をされているメガネ岩や動画14:13で紹介されている樹齢300年にもなるガジュマルは、その特徴的な見た目からインスタ映えスポットとして注目を集めています。 見るだけでは終わらない鹿児島県奄美群島・徳之島の魅力！ 日本でも屈指の観光名所である鹿児島県奄美群島・徳之島ですが、勿論見るだけでは終わりません。 まずは動画10:55で紹介されている島レストラン「ヤドゥリ」で徳之島のご当地グルメに舌鼓を打つのも悪く無いでしょう。 その後は、夜行貝のペンダントを実際に作ることが出来る「夜行貝ブルーシェル」で伝統工芸を、三味線教室で伝統文化を体験するのもおすすめです。 これらの他にも、時期によってはトライアスロンやサーフィン等のマリンスポーツ、キャンプも楽しむことが出来るので、鹿児島県奄美群島・徳之島を余すところなく堪能しましょう。 鹿児島県奄美群島・徳之島の魅力紹介まとめ 貴重な動植物を多く残す、鹿児島県奄美群島・徳之島について紹介をさせて頂きました。 綺麗な自然ならではの景色と生物、そして全国でも希少な闘牛など、動画でたっぷりと堪能出来るので、ぜひご覧下さい。 見るだけでなく体験もして楽しむことが出来る鹿児島県奄美群島・徳之島。 ぜひ動画とこの記事を参考に、観光を検討してみてはいかがでしょうか？

COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always hosting photo contests. In this article, we'd like to introduce some of the beautiful Japanese landscape photos submitted to our past contests. Along with the photos, we'd also like to share with you the charms of various photo spots in Japan. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation website that introduces the charms of Japan to people around the world that are interested in Japan. With our photo contests, your photos, be they taken with camera or smartphone, can be selected to win a prize! Stick around for more information about our photo contests! ■Table of Contents - Past Photo Contest Entries – Landscape Photography  Monet's Pond (Gifu)  Motonosumi Shrine (Yamaguchi)  Nokoshima (Fukuoka)  Kurihama Flower Park (Kanagawa)  Kurotaki Falls (Hyogo)  Kappa Bridge (Nagano)  Otsu Beach (Hokkaido)  Mt. Takara (Kyoto)  Mt. Fuji Sea of Clouds (Shizuoka)  Tarumi Railway (Gifu) - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Ongoing Photo Contest - Photo Contest Landscape Photography Summary Past Photo Contest Entries – Landscape Photography From the many submissions to our past photo contests, we have selected some of the best landscape photos of Japan. Here, we'll introduce the location where each photo was taken, along with sightseeing videos showing the charms of some of the areas! We hope you enjoy the photos! CoolJapanVideos Photographer: HIKARINOATORIE Location: Monet's Pond near the approach to Nemichi Shrine (Seki, Gifu) Monet's Pond A pond formed by spring water in the precincts of Nemichi Shrine, its beauty is reminiscent of Claude Monet's painting 'Water Lilies.' Because of this, the pond is commonly referred to as "Monet's Pond" and has become popular on Japanese social networking sites. Watching the video below, it almost feels as if the painting has become reality. Be sure to give it a watch. Monet's Pond Article Video article 3:07 A Degree of Clarity and Beauty only found in CG. Monet's Pond, Gifu Prefecture: A Colorful, Beautiful Sight Like a Mural in Front of Your Eyes YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: 石川満彦 Location: Motonosumi Shrine (Nagato, Yamaguchi) Motonosumi Shrine Motonosumi Shrine is a shrine said to being many benefits, such as prosperity in business, a large catch of fish, safety at sea, happy marriage, safe childbirth, good luck, and protection from bad luck. The beautiful scenery created by 123 red torii gates stands out against the green hillside and blue sea. We also recommend the following sightseeing video, which is packed with the charms of Yamaguchi. Yamaguchi Prefecture Sightseeing Article Video article 3:22 Enjoy the Beautiful Scenery of Yamaguchi Prefecture! These Photos Will Take Your Breath Away! Check Out the Amazing Sightseeing Spots, Gourmet Food, and Natural Scenery That Will Give You a Glimpse of the History That Has Made Japan What It Is Today! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: orinus Location: Nokoshima, Fukuoka Nokonoshima Island's Candy Store 'Omohideya' The quaint candy shop 'Omohideya' is located on Omohide-dori (思ひ出通り) in Nokonoshima Island Park. Both the storefront and interior of the store have a retro atmosphere, and stepping inside is like traveling back in time to Japan's Showa period. It's a spot where you can take photos with nostalgic sweets that Japanese children enjoyed many years ago. Japan's Showa-Retro Candy Shops The Showa Retro Atmosphere of Japan's Candy Shops! Everyone's Visited a Candy Store At One Time or Another, and They Were Once the Place To Meet Up With Friends Video article 6:01 The Showa Retro Atmosphere of Japan's Candy Shops! Everyone's Visited a Candy Store At One Time or Another, and They Were Once the Place To Meet Up With Friends YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: Mom Diamond Location: Kurihama Flower Park (Yokosuka, Kanagawa) Kurihama Flower Park Kurihama Flower Park is a place where visitors can enjoy flowers from season to season. Nemophila and poppies bloom in the spring, and one million cosmos bloom in the fall. This is a place where you can take up-close photos like the one above, as well as photos of carpets of flowers blooming in all directions. Kanagawa Prefecture Sightseeing Article Video article 7:01 There Are So Many Fascinating Places to Visit in Kanagawa Prefecture! World-Famous Sightseeing Spots in Kanagawa Are Brilliantly Introduced With Smooth Dancing! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: Nguyen Vu Location: Kurotaki Falls Kurotaki Falls A beautiful photo that makes you wonder "Is this really Japan?" Kurotaki Falls, described as the "Niagara of Miki," is a 4-meter tall, 30-meter-wide waterfall that flows down into the Mino River. It is characterized by its two-tiered male and female waterfalls, and there's a folk tale about a raccoon dog and a fox tricking each other as well. Photographing it from a low position with the sky makes for a powerful photo. Hyogo Prefecture Sightseeing Article Video article 7:28 Hyogo Prefecture Is a Fascinating Tourist Destination With Plenty of Delicious Food, Beautiful Scenery, Rich History, and Natural Landscapes! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: Abhi Sen Location: Kappa Bridge, Kamikochi (Matsumoto, Nagano) Kappa Bridge, Kamikochi Kamikochi is a mountain resort area located at an elevation of 1,500 meters above sea level. From Kappa Bridge, a suspension bridge with a presence that blends in with the magnificent scenery, you can see the clear Azusa River, the Hotaka mountain range, Mt. Dakesawa, and the volcanic fumes of Mt. Yake. It's also known for its appearance in Ryunosuke Akutagawa's novel 'Kappa.' The area is visited by many tourists every year between spring and summer (as shown in the photo) and in the fall when the colorful autumn leaves appear. Matsumoto, Nagano Sightseeing Article Video article 4:21 Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture Is an Amazing Tourist Destination Overflowing With Nature! Kamikochi and Matsumoto Castle Are Just Two of the Must-See Destinations! A Look at the Culture, History, and Cuisine of Matsumoto City! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: Lily0321 Location: Otsu Beach (Toyokoro, Hokkaido) Otsu Beach's 'Jewelry Ice' The chunks of ice from the Tokachi River that flow out into the Pacific Ocean are washed away, losing their rough edges and becoming clear ice. On the Otsu Coast, from mid-January to the end of February, you can see chunks of ice shining beautifully like jewels in the sunlight. If you take a photo at the right angle, you capture the sun shimmering in the background. Coupled with the ice, it creates a beautiful photo. Hokkaido Prefecture Sightseeing Article Video article 3:30 Hokkaido - Endlessly Sweeping Horizons and Magnificent Scenery! Set off on a Trip to Hokkaido's Scenic Locations to Enjoy Spectacular Views of Japan's Natural Landscape! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: st situation Location: Mt. Takara, Yakuno Highland (Fukuchiyama, Kyoto) Mt. Takara Mt. Takara is located on the Yakuno Highlands, which straddle the town of Yakuno in Fukuchiyama and Asago in Hyogo Prefecture. Mt. Takara is a popular location for photographers to capture spectacular views. The sea of clouds covering the mountains and the glow of the morning sun make the scenery look simply amazing. Kyoto Prefecture Sightseeing Article Video article 2:06 Traditional Shrines, Temples, and Beautiful Scenery in Kyoto! Sightseeing Destinations Where You Can Do Discover All That and More! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: ひであき Location: Mt. Fuji Sea of Clouds (Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture) Mt. Fuji Sea of Clouds Shimizu Yoshihara in Shizuoka, where you can take pictures of a sea of clouds, the morning glow, and Mt. Fuji, is said to be a good place to see a sea of clouds. Depending on the location, you can also take pictures of tea fields and hydrangeas as shown above. Shizuoka Prefecture Sightseeing Article Video article 3:23 There Are So Many Fascinating Places to Visit in Shizuoka Prefecture! One of Japan's Most Scenic Destinations Condensed Into Three Minutes! YouTube CoolJapanVideos Photographer: HIKARINOATORIE Location: Tarumi Railway, Tanigumiguchi Station (Ibi, Gifu) Tarumi Railway The Tarumi Railway runs between Ogaki, Gifu and Neo, Motosu. Among other things, Tanigumiguchi Station is known as a spot where you can take pictures of trains running along lines of cherry blossoms. The best time to take photos is in the morning when the weather is clear. Tanigumiguchi Station is also a good place to photograph parked trains. Gifu Prefecture Sightseeing Article Video article 6:06 Gifu City in Gifu Prefecture, the Very Center of Japan- Where Oda Nobunaga Aimed to Unify the Country. A City With a Wide Variety of Food, History, Culture and Beautiful Natural Scenery! YouTube Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that showcases the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS Anyone can enter COOL JAPAN VIDEOS' photo contests! Below are some of the features of our contests. ・On top of single-lens reflex cameras and digital cameras, photos taken with smartphones and other devices can also be submitted. ・Each person can submit as many photos as they like during the contest period. ・Editing of images, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Here you can find all of the past photo contest winners in one place. You can also see the prizes for each contest, as well as the locations where the photos were taken and the judges' critiques. Click here to see past photo contest winners Text only Photo Contest Results - COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Winning Photos - Discover the Charms of Japan! Current Photo Contest The following is information about the current photo contest. [Ongoing From March2024] The 22th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Spring in Japan Submission period: March 1, 2024 12:00 AM – April 30, 2024 11:59 PM (JST) Prizes: ■Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card (1 Winner) ■Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card (5 Winners) Spring in Japan Photo Contest Landscape Photography Summary Did you enjoy these landscape photos from past photo contest entries? Some of these landscapes can only be seen in specific conditions. Japan is full of rich nature, historical locations, and seasonal events! Share your photos with the world and help showcase the beauty of Japan through COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! Related Articles Text only Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Heartwarming Photos That Will Put a Smile on Your Face! Text only Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Autumn in Japan Text only Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Showcasing the Different Views of Mt. Fuji Text only Hokkaido in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: From Popular Sightseeing Spots to Exotic Animals, Discover the Beauty of Japan's Northernmost Prefecture! Text only Tohoku in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: Hot Springs, Festivals, Snowscapes, and More – 10 Beautiful Photos of Japan's Tohoku Region! Text only Kyoto in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Kyoto, the Ancient Capital of Japan, and Its Most Popular Tourist Attractions! Text only Tokyo in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Featuring the Charms of Tokyo, the Capital of Japan + Popular Tourist Attractions! Text only Winter in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Capturing the Beauty of Winter in Japan. Snowy Landscapes, Glittering Illuminations + More! Text only Kansai in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Spectacular Views of Japan's Kansai Region. From Night Views to Traditional Events, Discover the Best Photo Spots in Kansai! Text only Cherry Blossoms in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Amazing Views of Cherry Blossoms, from Castles and Temples to Rows of Cherry Blossom! .separation_line { border-width: 0 0 8px; border-style: solid; border-image: url('data:image/svg+xml,') 0 0 100% repeat; width: 216px; margin:auto; margin-bottom: 50px; }

Video introduction of "Lake Yamanakako" in Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture, one of the Fuji Five Lakes This video, titled "HIKE IN LAKE YAMANAKAKO," was released by the "Lake Yamanaka Tourism Department" (山中湖村観光課). The video introduces Yamanashi prefecture's (山梨県) Lake Yamanaka, one of the top sightseeing spots in Japan among both foreign and domestic travelers. Lake Yamanaka lies at the foot of Mt. Fuji and has the largest surface area of the Fuji Five Lakes making it one of the most famous sightseeing spots in Japan. It's located in Yamanakako Village, in the Minamitsuru district of Yamanashi Prefecture. From 0:13 in the video, you can see the spectacular scenery of the lake and the nature surrounding it. In the background lies the impressive Mt. Fuji, a majestic mountain that many travelers, both foreign and domestic, come to see each year. Enjoy Hiking at Lake Yamanaka! Photo：Takasashiyama and Yamanaka Lake, Kanagawa Prefecture We highly recommended hiking on your trip to Lake Yamanaka. Hiking does require a fair amount of stamina, but the views of the beech tree forest that can be seen at 0:44, the wild flowers and large trees shown at 1:04, and the spectacular views across the grasslands, are guaranteed to make the effort worthwhile. Some of the most popular hiking courses in the area include the "Mt. Mikuni Panoramic Hiking Course" (三国山・パノラマ台ハイキングコース), "Mt. Takazasu and Mt. Myojin Hiking Courses" (高指山・明神山ハイキングコース), "Mt. Ishiwari Hiking Course" (石割山ハイキングコース), and the "Mt. Ohira Hiking Course" (太平山ハイキングコース). All of the mountains mentioned above are featured in the video so we highly recommend checking it out to find out which hiking course interests you the most! For those of you visiting Yamanashi prefecture for the first time, we recommend the "Mount Mikuni Panoramic Hiking Course" which offers scenery you are unlikely to find anywhere else, as well as the view of "Diamond Fuji." Top 3 Sightseeing Spots Around Lake Yamanaka Photo：camp 1. Sonei Yamanakako Campsite (村営山中湖キャンプ場). If you're thinking about going camping during your trip to Lake Yamanaka, we highly recommend the Sonei Yamanakako Campsite. As a tent only campsite there are no cottages available, but you can spend the night on one of the lodge beds and it's the perfect place to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Lake Yamanaka and its surroundings. The area is fully equipped with public facilities, including toilets and showers, to help make your stay as comfortable as possible. 2. Yamanakako Hot Springs: Benifuji no Yu (紅富士の湯) With all baths boasting a view of Mount Fuji, this is an experience you can't afford to miss on your trip to Yamanashi prefecture. Enjoy taking a dip in the baths to rest your tired legs after a long day of hiking while enjoying the beautiful scenery the hot springs have to offer. 3. Hananomiyako Park (花の都公園). Hananomiyako park, situated on the banks of Lake Yamanaka, is one of the leading tourist attractions in Yamanashi prefecture. The area is beautifully colored with different seasonal flowers and is a popular spot for traveling couples. Other activities you can enjoy in the area include fishing for wakasagi (Japanese smelt), cycling around the lake, taking a trip on a sightseeing boat, and even hang gliding! If you have time to spare, be sure to try some of the local cuisine, such as Hoto (ほうとう) or Yoshida Udon (吉田うどん). After you're done eating, if you need a place to stay there are plenty of hotels and ryokan for you to choose from in the area. Summary of Sightseeing at Lake Yamanaka Photo：Autumn scenery by Lake Yamanaka, Yamanashi Prefecture In this article, we introduced Lake Yamanaka, a tourist spot that symbolizes Yamanashi prefecture. Lake Yamanaka is situated in Yamanakako Village in the Minamitsuru District of Yamanashi prefecture. It is without a doubt one of the most popular and famous sightseeing spots in Japan and we highly recommend it to anyone visiting Japan from overseas! Lake Yamanaka is easily accessible, taking just one and a half hours to reach from Tokyo by car. There are many other sightseeing spots and events held in the area around Lake Yamanaka, such as Oshino Hakkai (忍野八海), Sengen Shrine (浅間神社), and fireworks displays. If after watching this video you'd like to learn more about Lake Yamanaka, we highly recommend taking a trip to see all of the beautiful scenery in person! 【Tripadvisor】Sonei Yamanakako Campsite https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g1104179-d13236229-Reviews-Lake_Yamanaka_Campsite-Yamanakako_mura_Minamitsuru_gun_Yamanashi_Prefecture_Koshinet.html

九州の人気観光地・鹿児島県姶良市紹介動画について こちらの動画は「姶良市公式youtubeチャンネル」が公開した「姶良市PR動画「AIRA CITY」（full version）」です。 今回は鹿児島県の姶良市（あいらし）を紹介します。 こちら記事では、日本のおすすめの観光地である鹿児島県姶良市の情報や、おすすめの穴場スポットなどを紹介します。 九州の人気観光地・鹿児島県姶良市とは 九州のおすすめ観光地の姶良市は、鹿児島県の中央に位置する町です。 自然、歴史、文化、特産品、温泉とさまざま観光資源がある魅力のある観光地で、鹿児島を旅行する際にはぜひ寄りたいエリア。 活火山である桜島の景勝を楽しんだり、緑豊かな山々に癒されたりと自然が好きな方にとくにおすすめの場所です。 鹿児島県姶良市で自然、伝統文化を思う存分体験し、心に残る旅の思い出にしましょう。 九州の人気観光地・鹿児島県姶良市の景勝エリア 日本のおすすめの観光地である鹿児島県姶良市には、自然の美しい景観を楽しめるスポットがたくさんあります。 まず、おすすめの観光スポットは龍門滝。 龍門滝は「日本の滝百選」にも選ばれた日本を代表する滝。 46メートルの高さから流れ落ちる滝はとても雄大で、見るものを圧倒させる力があります。 続いてのおすすめが、美しいアーチが特徴の金山橋です。 金山橋は明治12年頃に築かれた歴史ある石橋。 近くにある板井手の滝とのコントラストが美しく、インスタ映えのおすすめの撮影スポットでもあります。 他にも、網掛川や錦江湾、重富海水浴場、布引の滝、龍門司坂など鹿児島県姶良市には絶景を楽しめるスポットがたくさんあります。 九州の人気観光地・鹿児島県姶良市の伝統文化 九州のおすすめの観光地、鹿児島県姶良市は、伝統工芸が盛んな観光地でもあります。 300年以上の歴史がある伝統工芸の龍門司焼は、薩摩を代表する焼き物として有名。 帖佐人形は、鹿児島県姶良市に残る伝統工芸で鹿児島県の伝統的工芸品にも選ばれています。 他にも、和紙漉きが楽しめるなど、鹿児島県姶良市の魅力的な伝統文化を体験できるスポットがあります。 九州の人気観光地・鹿児島県姶良市の紹介まとめ こちらの動画は鹿児島県姶良市のおすすめの観光地を美しい映像でご覧になることができます。 美しい自然や歴史のある伝統文化を楽しめる鹿児島県姶良市。 九州観光の際には、鹿児島姶良市に是非、足をお運びください！

8 Popular Sightseeing Spots in Nara Prefecture, as Shown in the Video This video, titled "Best 8 things to do in NARA & IKARUGA," was released by "Ikaruga Tourism Association Horyuji i-Center" (斑鳩町観光協会法隆寺iセンター). Did you know that Nara Prefecture has been rapidly growing in popularity as one of the most popular tourist sites in Japan in recent years? Nara Prefecture is the site of the Heijo-kyo Capital, which is older than Kyoto, and is dotted with many famous temples and shrines, including Horyuji Temple, Chuguji Temple, Hokiji Temple, Horinji Temple, and Takida Shrine. In this article we'll introduce 8 popular tourist sites in Ikaruga, a popular destination in Nara. [Nara & Ikaruga Popular Sightseeing Recommendation #1] The Area Around Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine Photo：Todaiji Temple, Nara Prefecture Todaiji Temple, said to be the world's oldest wooden architecture, is designated as a World Heritage Site, and the surrounding area is full of historical elegance and traditional culture. The route from Todaiji Temple to Kasuga Taisha Shrine is popular for walks thanks to its rich natural scenery. This can be seen from 0:14 in the video. [Nara & Ikaruga Popular Sightseeing Recommendation #8] Traditional Sweets in Nara & Ikaruga Photo：Kuzukiri, Nara Prefecture Nara Prefecture's representative sweets and gourmet foods are kuzukiri and kuzumochi made with authentic Yoshino kudzu. Enjoy traditional Japanese sweets and tea on a break during your stroll? This can be seen from 0:32 in the video. [Nara & Ikaruga Popular Sightseeing Recommendation #3] Tasting the Sake of Nara & Ikaruga Photo：Sake brewery Speaking of sake, you may think that many famous sake breweries are in Hokuriku, Tohoku, or around the Seto Inland Sea (瀬戸内海, Setonaikai). Yet, Yamada Nishiki, one of the principal varieties of sake brewing rice, is actually produced in Nara Prefecture. There are several unexplored sake breweries in Nara Prefecture that use the exquisite water of Yoshino and Yamada Nishiki to produce excellent sake. This can be seen from 0:51 in the video. [Nara & Ikaruga Popular Sightseeing Recommendation #4] Strolling Through Nara & Ikaruga Photo：Horyuji Temple, Nara Prefecture The Ikaruga area of Nara is rich in greenery with many temples and shrines. Check out the Townscape of Nishisato for a nice stroll. This walking route is dotted with places of history and culture, with historical buildings and fancy Japanese-style cafes. This can be seen from 1:10 in the video. [Nara & Ikaruga Popular Sightseeing Recommendation #5] Ryokans in Nara & Ikaruga Photo：Hot Springs at Ryokan When it comes to accommodations to fully enjoy Japanese culture, "Ryokan," Japan's traditional inns, are the perfect choice. For traveling in the historical town of Ikaruga, Nara, Ryokan are highly recommended over hotels. This can be seen from 1:26 in the video. [Nara & Ikaruga Popular Sightseeing Recommendation #6] A Tea Break in Nara & Ikaruga Photo：Hojicha Hojicha is becoming more and more popular in cafes and convenience stores today, and it is said that Nara Prefecture is the birthplace of this tea. Why not try a cup of tea to relieve yourself of fatigue while sightseeing in Nara? This can be seen from 1:42 in the video. [Nara & Ikaruga Popular Sightseeing Recommendation #7] Beautiful Natural Scenery in Nara & Ikaruga Source :YouTube screenshot One of the best things to do when sightseeing in Nara is to enjoy nature. The Ikaruga area of Nara is blessed with rich nature in all four seasons, and the town itself is like a beautiful nature park. Just walking around the area you can feel the history, nature, and traditional culture of Japan. This can be seen from 2:05 in the video. [Nara & Ikaruga Popular Sightseeing Recommendation #8] Deer in Nara & Ikaruga Photo：Deer Speaking of Nara Prefecture, you don't want to miss the deer! Wild deer show up not only in Nara Park, but throughout the entire area. Because of this, you can expect to bump into a deer on your way to the park as well! You'll want to make sure that you approach them gently, as they are designated as a protected species. This can be seen from 2:23 in the video. Summary of Popular Sightseeing Spots in Nara Prefecture Photo：Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Nara Prefecture It is said that Buddhism was introduced and took root in Japan during the Asuka/Nara periods (around 592-794 A.D.), so the areas around Ikaruga, Nara have many historical heritages, including temples and ancient tombs. In this article, we introduced information on popular sightseeing spots in the Ikaruga, Nara area alongside the video. Which one attracted you the most? 【Official Website】Nara Horyuji Temple sightseeing. Ikaruga official travel guide http://horyuji-nara-ikaruga.jp/

■Table of Contents Introduction The Mizu-no-Kamuy Area: A Connected Journey Through Eastern Hokkaido's Akan-Mashu and Kushiro Shitsugen National Parks Who the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area is for: A Journey to Slow Down and Take It In Exploring Kushiro: Wetlands, Wildlife, and Wide-Open Skies — Canoeing, Observation Decks, Red-Crowned Crane Watching, and One of the World's Three Great Sunsets Things to Do in Kushiro Shitsugen National Park What Are the Highlights of Lake Akan? The Appeal of a Stay-Based Area Where Marimo, Akanko Ainu Kotan, and Lake Akan Onsen Come Together Akanko Ainu Kotan: A Place to Encounter Ainu Culture Spending a Blissful Moment at Lake Akan Onsen What Are the Highlights of Lake Mashu? Introducing the Sea of Clouds, Observation Decks, Teshikaga, and Kawayu Onsen Lake Mashu's Fog and Sea of Clouds Useful Nearby Information for Enjoying Lake Mashu More Deeply What Foods Should You Try in the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area? Eastern Hokkaido Cuisine Nurtured by the Blessings of Water and the Local Climate Kushiro Area: Seafood and Robatayaki Lake Akan Area: Lake Blessings and Ainu Food Culture Teshikaga and Mashu Area: Inland Blessings and Local Foods of a Hot Spring Region How Can You Enjoy Each Season? Seasonal Highlights of the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Spring to Summer (May to August): A Season of Green and Blue, Easy for First-Time Visitors to Explore Autumn (September to October): Autumn Leaves, Clear Air, and a Season You Will Want to Photograph Winter (November to March): Red-Crowned Crane Watching, Snowy Scenery, and a Sacred Season for Hot Springs How Do You Access the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area? Getting Around by Car, Public Transportation, and Bus Main Access Bases for the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Traveling by Car Traveling by Public Transportation What Are the Recommended 1-Night, 2-Day and 2-Night, 3-Day Model Itineraries? Easy Routes for First-Time Visitors Travel Through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area, Connecting Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu See more Introduction The eastern shore of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, presents a landscape that shifts dramatically as you travel, giving a continuously-changing atmosphere to your journey. The Mizu-no-Kamuy Area[Untouched Hokkaido] (0:54), connecting the national parks at Kushiro Shitsugen and the Akan and Mashu Lakes, is a special region where visitors can experience majestic natural beauty and serene lakes, offering stunning landscapes and quiet tranquility. You can take in vast marshlands, be soothed by the still waters, and experience both the volcanic terrain and Ainu culture that have each had a hand in shaping this land. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area If it's your first visit, it is recommended to plan on at least two or three days to comfortably see what the area has to offer. For traveling without a car, basing your trip in Kushiro, Lake Akan Onsen, or Kawayu Onsen and exploring from there can make it easier to get around. In this article, we will introduce the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area, along with its key sights, suggested routes, and seasonal attractions. The Mizu-no-Kamuy Area: A Connected Journey Through Eastern Hokkaido Kushiro Wetlands, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu: For those familiar with the region, just hearing these names is enough to conjure images of Hokkaido's vast, untamed landscapes. The Mizu-no-Kamuy Area brings these three regions together, offering a single travel experience encompassing nature, Ainu culture, hot springs, and local cuisine across eastern Hokkaido. "Kamuy" means "god" or "spirit" in the language of the Ainu, who are indigenous to Hokkaido. For the Ainu, spirits are believed to inhabit all elements of the natural world, including mountains, rivers, and animals. Water itself has been held to be sacred since ancient times, with rivers, lakes and wetlands all existing in harmony with spirits. Thus Mizu-no-Kamuy, the area of the water spirits, is a name that perfectly reflects the essence of this land. The sense of harmony and interconnection is a fascinating aspect of Mizu-no-Kamuy. The wetlands, lakes, volcanic terrain and cultural sites are not isolated, separate points, but form a continuous, cohesive journey. Travel through this area reveals how these separate elements shape and flow into one another like the water for which the region is named, making for a deeper, more holistic experience than can be had by simply visiting individual points of interest. This sense of a "journey to encounter the Kamuy of Water" is the underlying philosophy behind the Mizu-no-Kamuy area. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Who the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area is for: A Journey to Slow Down and Take It In The Mizu-no-Kamuy Area is especially suited to travelers who want more than just a checklist of scenic views. Its a place to settle into, from soaking in the beautiful nature and Ainu culture, to literally soaking in the hot springs and enjoying the varied local food. For travelers drawn to wide-open skies, clear air, and a silence that makes you stop and listen, this journey is sure to leave a lasting impression. It is a rewarding destination not just for repeat visitors, but also for anyone looking to experience a different side of Hokkaido. Travel here is less about covering distance and more about lingering. After visiting Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, the lasting impression, more so than the mere vastness of the wetlands, but the time spent in a landscape where the sky and earth seem to connect. At Lake Akan, a walk along the lakeshore or time spent in Akanko Ainu Kotan has a cultural dimension that goes beyond the scenery. At Lake Mashu, the lake takes on an entirely different aspect depending on the weather, with a crystal-clear beauty on sunny days, and an otherworldly atmosphere when wrapped in fog. Because the atmosphere is so inconstant, both from place to place and even in the same area seen twice in different circumstances, simply moving through the region is enough to convey a natural sense of depth. Although it is possible to see it in a packed one day or one-night-two-day, allowing yourself at least two full days makes for a far more relaxed and rewarding experience, especially if it is your first time. Exploring Kushiro: Wetlands, Wildlife, and Wide-Open Skies There is a natural logic to beginning any journey through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area at the Kushiro Shitsugen Wetlands. Stretching across the land north of Kushiro city, Kushiro Shitsugen National Park is Japan's largest wetland and a site of international significance, designated under the Ramsar Convention for the protection of the world's most important wetland ecosystems. But its true scale becomes apparent the moment you first step out onto one of the observation decks and take in what lies before you. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area The wetlands extend toward the horizon, while the Kushiro River (0:25) winds below in broad, unhurried curves. Almost nothing man-made enters your field of vision. This kind of stillness and sense of space is genuinely difficult to find elsewhere, and the sensation of having arrived somewhere distinctive, singular, and unmistakably unique to eastern Hokkaido, is inescapable. The Kushiro River itself runs a stretch of 154 km, beginning at Lake Kussharo in Akan-Mashu National Park. The clear water flows out from the lake's southern shore, quietly flowing through old-growth forest before reaching the wetlands. If you visit Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo later in your trip, that connection becomes clear: the river first seen meandering through the marshlands has its origins in the lakes you encounter upstream. It adds a sense of continuity to the journey, linking the region together and clarifying the landscape into an interconnected whole. Things to Do in Kushiro Shitsugen National Park Observation Decks Hosooka Observatory, Sarubo Observatory, Kottaro Wetland Observatory, and Kushiro Marsh Observatory (7:25) each offer different perspectives over the wetlands. The scenery shifts dramatically with the weather and time of day, so it's worth visiting more than one. A guided tour of Hokuto Observatory can be seen from (7:25) in the video. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Canoeing on the Kushiro River Canoeing is one of the best ways to experience Kushiro, with two distinct routes offering very different landscapes. ・Kushiro River Headwaters Canoe Tour (3:32) Starting near Lake Kussharo, this route follows the narrow upper reaches of the Kushiro River through dense, first-growth forest. The water is clear, the current gentle, and at times the trees arch overhead to form a tunnel of green. It is a quiet, more enclosed experience, less about wide views and focusing more on immersion in a pristine natural habitat. The sense of adventure and the wonder of being deep in untouched nature makes this a different experience from the lower reaches. This is recommended for those who want to "venture into old-growth forest with crystal-clear streams." Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area ・Kushiro Wetland Canoe Tour (6:54) Further downstream, the river widens as it flows through Kushiro Shitsugen National Park. The river is wide and the current is gentle, so even beginners can paddle comfortably. Moving at water level through the reeds, you may spot wildlife such as red-crowned cranes or kingfishers along the banks. Being on the river in such an open, expansive landscape gives an immersive feeling of becoming part of the wetland ecosystem that is hard to find elsewhere. Guided tours offer explanations and context on the ecosystem, wildlife and plant life, adding greater depth to the scenery before you. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Boardwalk Walks The walking trail next to Kushiro Marsh Observatory has the Satellite Observatory at its midpoint, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland. The boardwalks around Onnenai Visitor Center are also popular routes that allow visitors to walk through the wetland itself. You can take your time enjoying the sensation of the peatland underfoot—peat is a layer formed over many years by accumulated plant matter—and the world of wetland plants spreading around you. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Red-Crowned Crane Watching Kushiro Shitsugen National Park is known worldwide as a habitat for the red-crowned crane. The red-crowned crane is designated as a Special Natural Monument of Japan, one of the most important natural monuments protected by the Japanese government under law. Once on the brink of extinction, it has recovered in numbers through conservation efforts and is now a symbolic wild animal of Japan. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area The Kushiro and Nemuro regions are Japan's largest breeding area for red-crowned cranes. Their elegant appearance as they live in wetlands and farmland deeply moves visitors to this region. In winter especially, you can see red-crowned cranes dancing against snowy scenery, creating an unforgettable sight. From winter to early spring, you may also see courtship dances, in which males and females face each other, spread their wings, and leap into the air. These precious moments allow you to feel the mystery of life up close. Well-known observation spots include the Akan International Crane Center, where cranes gather through feeding, and the Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary, where wild red-crowned cranes can be observed in a more natural state. The best season for red-crowned crane watching is from mid-December to February. During this period, dozens to more than one hundred cranes may gather for wintering, and their vivid white and red forms against the snowfield create a winter view unique to Kushiro. After first taking in the scale and richness of eastern Hokkaido's nature at Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, continuing on to Lake Akan and Lake Mashu creates a smooth and meaningful flow for the entire journey. You can watch the Kushiro area from (6:18) in the video. Kushiro Shitsugen National Park Basic Information [Address] Kushiro City, Kushiro Town (Kushiro District), Tsurui Village (Akan District), Shibecha Town (Kawakami District), Hokkaido [Access] About 40 to 60 minutes by car from Tancho Kushiro Airport What Are the Highlights of Lake Akan? The Appeal of a Stay-Based Area Where Marimo, Akanko Ainu Kotan, and Lake Akan Onsen Come Together If Kushiro Shitsugen National Park is a place where you feel endless openness, Lake Akan is an area where lake scenery, culture, and hot springs overlap—an area best enjoyed by staying for a while. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Lake Akan is widely known as the habitat of marimo, a type of algae that grows into spherical shapes and is designated as a Special Natural Monument of Japan. Taking a sightseeing boat across the lake to Churui Island and seeing real marimo up close at the Marimo Exhibition and Observation Center is a memorable experience for both children and adults. The sight of round green spheres gently floating in the water has a strangely calming charm. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Yet the appeal of Lake Akan cannot be explained by the fame of marimo alone. The quiet time that flows along the lakeshore, moments of encountering Ainu culture, and the relaxing atmosphere unique to a hot spring area all come together, making this a place that remains deeply in your travel memories. Akanko Ainu Kotan: A Place to Encounter Ainu Culture In one corner of the Lake Akan Onsen town is Akanko Ainu Kotan. "Kotan" is an Ainu word meaning "settlement" or "village," and Akanko Ainu Kotan is known as a place where Ainu culture is passed down to the present day. It is not merely a tourist facility. One of its major characteristics is that Ainu people still live there today, continuing their culture through daily life. Within the area are shops selling crafts such as wood carvings and embroidery, restaurants where visitors can taste Ainu cuisine, and facilities introducing traditional dance and culture. As you walk through the kotan, you can come into contact with Ainu history and culture. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area At the Akanko Ainu Theater "Ikor," visitors can watch live performances of traditional Ainu dance. It is one of the cultural experiences that represents Lake Akan and is well worth visiting. The powerful yet delicate dancing and music have an impact that slowly reaches deep into the heart. These performances are also registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, offering a chance to encounter the essence of Ainu culture that can only be felt here. At craft shops within the kotan, you can see traditional Ainu handwork such as wood carving and embroidery up close. Wood carvings include ornaments with motifs connected to nature, such as bears and owls, as well as trays, small boxes, and other items used in daily life. They have a strength within their simplicity. Embroidery is often applied to clothing, bags, and small cloth items. The distinctive patterns using curved lines are beautiful and leave a strong impression at first sight. Some of these patterns are believed to carry meanings of protection or warding off evil, revealing a depth that cannot be seen by viewing them only as designs. Once you learn the meanings and techniques behind each piece, souvenirs from your trip will feel even more special. Activities Around Lake Akan: Going One Step Deeper into Nature The Lake Akan area is also a place for rich nature experiences that go beyond lakeside walks. The lakeside walking trail is a path maintained along the shore, where you can walk while feeling the changing expressions of Lake Akan up close. As you walk through scenery where forest trees and the lake surface appear alternately, a quiet time flows, separate from the bustle of the hot spring town. The route is easy to walk, so it can be enjoyed casually even during a short break. Along the way, taking a sightseeing boat on Lake Akan to a spot where you can observe the Special Natural Monument marimo is also an experience not to be missed. The sight of spherical marimo resting in the water is a unique natural formation that can be seen only at Lake Akan. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Along the lakeside course, there is also an area dotted with "bokke"—mud volcanoes created by geothermal activity that causes mud to bubble up from underground. The sight of mud bubbling up from the earth makes you feel that the ground is still alive. Walking through the Bokke Forest, where steam drifts through primeval woodland, is an experience unique to the lakeside trail, allowing you to feel the geothermal energy of this hot spring area with all five senses. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area On the Akan Fishing Tour (1:45), you can enjoy fishing in Lake Akan and nearby rivers nurtured by the rich water system. Spending time with fish unique to eastern Hokkaido, such as white-spotted char and rainbow trout, offers a vivid sense of being embraced by nature. Tours with local guides who help you find the best fishing spots can be enjoyed by a wide range of visitors, from beginners to experienced anglers. About 30 minutes by car from Lake Akan is Onneto, a mystical lake also known as "Goshikinuma," or the Five-Colored Marsh, because its surface changes color moment by moment against the backdrop of Mt. Meakan and Akan Fuji. Onneto Cycling (1:53), enjoyed along the lakeshore, is a refreshing experience that lets you ride through vast nature with the wind against your face. As you pedal slowly along a route surrounded by greenery, you can fully enjoy the changing colors of the lake and the silence of the forest. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Rising close to Onneto is Mt. Meakan. This 1,499-meter mountain is popular for Mt. Meakan hiking (2:13), which takes visitors from the trailhead to the summit. If walking the 12 km lakeside walking trail, the round trip to the summit of Mt. Meakan varies depending on physical strength and walking pace, but it is safest to allow around seven hours. From the summit, you can see the powerful scenery of the active crater and the spectacular views of Lake Akan and Onneto spread out below at the same time. The panoramic view of volcanic landforms, lakes, and forest is something that can only be encountered here. When hiking, be sure to prepare proper equipment and check the weather in advance. Spending a Blissful Moment at Lake Akan Onsen Along the shore of Lake Akan is Lake Akan Onsen, where hot spring inns line the lakeside. Onsen refers to Japan's unique bathing culture using natural hot water heated by geothermal energy. At this hot spring area close to the lake, you can gaze at waterside scenery while soaking in the bath. A calm travel atmosphere flows here, different from the sense of openness felt at Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area The walkable hot spring town is lined with souvenir shops and restaurants. Simply strolling while feeling the lakeside air allows you to experience the gentle charm unique to this place. In addition to spots where you can enjoy footbaths—outdoor facilities where you warm your feet in hot spring water (5:40)—there are also hand baths, said to have originated at Lake Akan Onsen, where you can warm your hands and casually feel the comfort of the hot springs while walking around. Please note that many hot spring facilities may refuse entry to guests with tattoos. Be sure to check with each facility in advance. At dusk, the color of Lake Akan's surface changes softly. At night, you can warm your body in the hot springs, and in the morning, quietly gaze at the lake wrapped in morning mist. By spending time together with the lake as it changes expression throughout the day, the appeal of Lake Akan will remain even more deeply in your heart. If you are traveling through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area, Lake Akan is an area where you should definitely consider staying overnight. The beauty of nature, the comfort unique to a hot spring area, and the environment where visitors can encounter Ainu culture all come together, greatly enhancing the satisfaction of the journey. You can watch the Akan area from (1:08) in the video. Lake Akan Basic Information [Address] 〒085-0467 Akanko Onsen, Akan-cho, Kushiro City, Hokkaido [Access] About 60 minutes by car from Kushiro Airport What Are the Highlights of Lake Mashu? Introducing the Sea of Clouds, Observation Decks, Teshikaga, and Kawayu Onsen As you leave Lake Akan and head toward Lake Mashu, the atmosphere of the journey gradually changes. The scenery outside the car window slowly deepens in forest color, signs of people fade away, and a greater stillness settles into the clear air. Then, the moment you stand at the observation deck, the dignified blue surface of Lake Mashu appears before your eyes. This scenery has a quiet power that leaves you at a loss for words, different from showy beauty. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Lake Mashu is a caldera lake located at an elevation of around 350 to 400 meters. It was formed by volcanic activity about 7,000 years ago. A caldera lake is a lake created when rainwater or groundwater collects in a depression formed after the summit area of a volcano collapses due to a major eruption (1:17). Lake Mashu is surrounded by an outer rim of mountains, and almost no large rivers flow into it or out of it. Because it is an environment that is not easily affected from outside, Lake Mashu's high transparency and clear blue surface have been preserved. Thanks to this terrain, which limits external influence, Lake Mashu has long been known as one of the clearest lakes in the world. In 1931, a transparency of 41.6 meters was recorded, known as a world record for lake transparency. Its perfectly clear water creates the striking blue known as 'Mashu Blue.' Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area The Ainu people called this lake "Kamuito," meaning "Lake of the Gods" in the Ainu language. In the Ainu worldview, where kamuy, or gods, are believed to dwell in all things in nature, Lake Mashu has long been spoken of with awe as a special place. Its dignified stillness beyond human reach, its mystical expression when wrapped in fog, and its breathtakingly clear blue—the name Kamuito seems to express everything about this lake. On a journey through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area, viewing Lake Mashu after holding its Ainu name in your heart will make it even more deeply memorable. The appeal of Lake Mashu is not simply that it is blue and beautiful. It is not a place where visitors go down to the lakeshore to play. Rather, it is a place best enjoyed by quietly viewing it from observation decks, taking in not only the beauty of its outline but also the atmosphere surrounding the lake. Lake Mashu's Fog and Sea of Clouds Lake Mashu is also known for its frequent fog and has long been familiar to people as "foggy Lake Mashu." The clear, vivid blue of the lake on a sunny day is magnificent, but when fog appears, the entire lake is wrapped in a white veil, deepening its mystical atmosphere. Both sunny days and foggy days reveal different expressions that are characteristic of this lake. In recent years, Lake Mashu's sea of clouds (3:19) has attracted particular attention. A sea of clouds is a natural phenomenon in which fog or clouds floating at a low elevation look like an ocean when viewed from a higher place. In the early morning, when fog drifts low and conditions are right, a dreamlike view may appear from the observation deck, with Mt. Mashu rising above the sea of clouds. Because this scenery can only be seen when conditions align, the sense of "being lucky if you see it" also becomes part of the joy of the journey. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Useful Nearby Information for Enjoying Lake Mashu More Deeply Lake Kussharo Lake Kussharo is Japan's largest caldera lake. At Sunayu, visitors can enjoy the unique experience of digging in the sand and seeing hot spring water bubble up. Lake Kussharo is the source of the Kushiro River. The river meanders through primeval forest, passes through Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, and flows into the Pacific Ocean. Its total length is 154 km. It is also known as a river without dams or weirs, making it a dream river for canoe enthusiasts. Kawayu Onsen Kawayu Onsen is known for its strongly acidic sulfur springs. Its source is acidic hot water heated by underground magma from the active volcano Mt. Io, also known as Atosanupuri. The water that springs from the underground hot spring layer is characterized by its strong acidity and is known as a distinctive hot spring that leaves the skin feeling smooth. For those who want to feel the power of the source up close, a visit to Mt. Io, or Atosanupuri, where white smoke rises into the air, is also recommended. It is popular to combine Kawayu Onsen with Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo as part of an itinerary around the Teshikaga area. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area You can watch Kawayu Onsen from (5:22) in the video. Atosanupuri / Mt. Io Hiking Tour Mt. Io, or Atosanupuri (4:13), located right beside Kawayu Onsen, is a powerful active volcano where white smoke constantly rises. Many areas are normally restricted due to volcanic gas and safety management, but by joining a tour accompanied by a local expert guide certified by the Teshikaga Ecomachi Promotion Council, visitors may be specially guided into places that are usually inaccessible to the general public. The sulfur crystals deposited on the ground, along with the sound and heat of fumaroles close by, create a one-of-a-kind experience that cannot be felt through ordinary sightseeing. If you want to safely experience the activity of a volcano, joining a guided tour is recommended. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Teshikaga Town Teshikaga Town is the gateway to Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo. It also has many restaurants using local ingredients, including those around Roadside Station Mashu Onsen. A roadside station, or Michi-no-Eki, is a rest facility where travelers can stop during a journey. Depending on the facility, visitors can also enjoy local ingredients, souvenirs, and light meals. The spectacular scenery stretching before Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, the history and culture of Lake Akan, and the stillness within the clear air of Lake Mashu—these three places, each with different expressions, make a journey through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area rich and rewarding. You can watch the Mashu area from (3:18) in the video. Lake Mashu Basic Information [Address] 〒088-3201 Mashu Lake First Observatory, Teshikaga Town, Kawakami District, Hokkaido [Access] About 20 minutes from JR Mashu Station What Foods Should You Try in the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area? Eastern Hokkaido Cuisine Nurtured by the Blessings of Water and the Local Climate The appeal of the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area is not limited to scenery, hot springs, and culture. Food unique to this land greatly enhances the satisfaction of the journey. Around Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu, the ingredients nurtured by waterside blessings, the cool climate, and the expansive land differ from place to place, and the impression of the flavors also changes depending on where you visit. Memories of travel are made more vivid not only by the landscapes you see, but also by the flavors you taste there. In Kushiro, close to the port, seafood has a strong presence. Around Lake Akan, you can encounter the blessings of the lake and the mountains. If you extend your trip toward Teshikaga and Kawayu Onsen, you can enjoy ingredients unique to inland areas and flavors rooted in the region. Even while traveling through the same broad area, the gradual changes in food impressions add greater depth to a journey through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area. In this region, as the scenery shifts from wetlands to lakes and hot spring towns, the way you enjoy food naturally changes as well. That is why planning your trip with "what to eat" in mind allows you to experience the appeal of this land in a more three-dimensional way. Kushiro Area: Seafood and Robatayaki Kushiro is one of Hokkaido's leading fishing port towns. Fresh seafood such as Pacific saury, shishamo smelt, autumn salmon, and horsehair crab can be found here. Kattedon at Washo Market—an original seafood rice bowl where you choose your favorite seafood from shops in the market and place it on rice—is one of Kushiro's classic local foods. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area You can watch Washo Market's kattedon from (6:28) in the video. Kushiro's robatayaki is a traditional Japanese dining style in which fresh ingredients are grilled over charcoal and eaten around an open hearth. It is deeply rooted in local culture. The experience of eating seafood slowly grilled over charcoal in an unpretentious restaurant offers a simple satisfaction different from photogenic tourist cuisine. The robata area near Kushiro Port is one place you will want to visit at night. You can watch Kushiro's robatayaki from (6:46) in the video. Lake Akan Area: Lake Blessings and Ainu Food Culture At Lake Akan, winter wakasagi fishing is one of the popular experiences. Wakasagi, or Japanese smelt, is a type of freshwater fish. Some facilities allow you to eat the fish you catch as freshly fried tempura, offering the luxury of enjoying the lake's blessings directly. Around Akanko Ainu Kotan, more cafes and restaurants are also offering menus where visitors can encounter Ainu food culture. Ainu cuisine using venison, wild vegetables, and other ingredients offers flavors unique to an Ainu region with its own distinct food culture. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Teshikaga and Mashu Area: Inland Blessings and Local Foods of a Hot Spring Region Dairy farming is active around Teshikaga, and sweets and soft-serve ice cream made with local milk and dairy products are popular. At Kawayu Onsen, dinners at hot spring inns often feature ingredients from eastern Hokkaido, allowing visitors to experience the rich appeal of inland cuisine. A well-known local specialty is Teshikaga ramen, characterized by soup made with underground water from Lake Mashu. Mashu soba, loved for its pleasant aroma and clean finish, and butadon pork rice bowls served with a fragrant sauce are also popular, expanding the enjoyment of a journey that does not end with scenery alone. In recent years, Mashu melon (5:48) and Mashu mango (6:02) have also attracted attention as food topics from eastern Hokkaido. Mashu melon, cultivated using the clear waters of Lake Mashu and a climate that is cool yet blessed with sunlight, is known for its refreshing sweetness and firm flesh, and is also highly popular as a gift item. Production of Mashu mangoes through greenhouse cultivation is also spreading. The unexpectedness of growing a tropical fruit in northern land has made it a topic of interest and a popular travel souvenir. If you see them at places such as Roadside Station Mashu Onsen, be sure to take a look. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area How Can You Enjoy Each Season? Seasonal Highlights of the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area The Mizu-no-Kamuy Area shows completely different expressions depending on the season. The dramatic change in scenery depending on when you travel is one of the great appeals of this region. Spring to Summer (May to August): A Season of Green and Blue, Easy for First-Time Visitors to Explore Approximate temperatures: May is around 8 to 10°C, while July and August are around 16 to 21°C. Although temperatures vary depending on the area and elevation, summers are cool compared with Honshu, Japan's main island. Long sleeves or a light outer layer will help you stay comfortable. This is the season when the greenery of Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland deepens, and the rich blue of Lake Akan and Lake Mashu stands out beautifully. Because the daylight hours are long, you can enjoy a full day of activities. Nature-based activities such as Kushiro Wetland canoeing (6:53) and boardwalk walks are especially rewarding during this period. Escaping the summer heat of Honshu and spending time in cool eastern Hokkaido is also a pleasant option. Kushiro often has foggy days, so bringing one extra layer is recommended. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Autumn (September to October): Autumn Leaves, Clear Air, and a Season You Will Want to Photograph Approximate temperatures: September is around 13 to 18°C, while October is around 6 to 12°C. Mornings and evenings can be cold, so layered clothing is recommended. The forests of Akan turn colorful, and the views from Lake Mashu's observation decks become even clearer. The air is clearer than in summer, and there are more days when distant views can be seen. This is also a season when tourist crowds become somewhat calmer, making it a hidden gem period for traveling slowly at your own pace. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Winter (November to March): Red-Crowned Crane Watching, Snowy Scenery, and a Sacred Season for Hot Springs Approximate temperatures: From December to February, temperatures are around −9 to −2°C. Cold can be especially severe inland and around Lake Akan, so be sure to prepare full winter gear such as warm outerwear, gloves, and winter boots. Winter in eastern Hokkaido is crisp and severe, but the scenery created by that cold air is exceptional. Watching red-crowned cranes in snow-covered wetlands is an experience only winter can offer. Ice fishing for wakasagi on Lake Akan and the snowy scenery of Lake Mashu are also highlights. Above all, winter makes hot springs feel even more comforting. At both Lake Akan Onsen and Kawayu Onsen, open-air baths in the snow are exceptional. When you enter a bath in below-freezing air, steam rises thickly from the hot spring, creating a dreamlike world. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area From autumn to winter, especially September to February, Kushiro is also known for its breathtaking sunsets, counted among the "world's three great sunsets." The term "world's three great sunsets" refers to a concept passed down among travelers and writers around the world as places where especially beautiful sunsets can be seen, and Kushiro is counted as one of them. The setting sun viewed from the Kushiro River area or around Nusamai Bridge (8:09) is a scene that stays in your travel memories for a long time. If you visit the Kushiro area, be sure to include time in your itinerary to look up at the sky at dusk. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area There are few regions where the scenery changes so much from season to season. This is one reason why many people who visit once want to return again. How Do You Access the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area? Getting Around by Car, Public Transportation, and Bus The Mizu-no-Kamuy Area spreads out around Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu. Because highlights are scattered across a wide area, the ease of travel changes greatly depending on which transportation method you choose. If you want to travel widely and enjoy the changing scenery, a car is convenient. If you prefer a relaxed stay based around Lake Akan Onsen or Kawayu Onsen, planning mainly around public transportation will make the trip easier to organize. Main Access Bases for the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Kushiro Airport About 1 Hour by Car to Lake Akan Onsen / About 30 Minutes to Central Kushiro Kushiro Airport is about 1 hour and 45 minutes by plane from Tokyo Haneda and is a convenient gateway to the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area. For visitors from overseas, a common route is to transfer to a domestic flight in Tokyo—Haneda or Narita—or Sapporo New Chitose Airport. Seasonal flights may operate from the Osaka and Nagoya areas depending on the time of year. Major spots around Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland can also be reached in about 30 minutes to 1 hour. For first-time visitors touring the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area, entering through Kushiro Airport makes it easier to plan a route in the order of Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu. Memanbetsu Airport About 1 Hour 10 Minutes by Car to Kawayu Onsen / About 1 Hour 30 Minutes to Lake Akan Onsen If you want to focus your trip on Lake Akan, Lake Mashu, and Kawayu Onsen, entering through Memanbetsu Airport is also convenient. The Lake Mashu area is about 1 hour away, making this route suitable for travelers who want to center their trip around Lake Mashu and Teshikaga. When traveling from Memanbetsu Airport toward Kushiro and Mashu, be sure to stop by Bihoro Pass along the way. From the observation deck overlooking Lake Kussharo, the full view of Japan's largest caldera lake spreads out in a vast panorama, offering one of eastern Hokkaido's finest scenic views. If you take in the scale of eastern Hokkaido with your whole body at this pass at the beginning of your trip, the overall impression of the journey will become even richer. The roadside station "Gurutto Panorama Bihoro Pass" is also located nearby and is convenient for breaks and light meals. Kushiro Station About 20 to 40 Minutes by Car to the Kushiro Shitsugen Area / About 2 Hours by Bus to Lake Akan Onsen Kushiro Station is the main base when accessing the area by JR, or Japan Railways, Japan's major railway system. A common route is to travel from Sapporo or New Chitose by limited express train. It is a convenient station to use as a starting point for rail travel. Traveling by Car Connects Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu Easily — Suitable for 2 Nights, 3 Days Central Kushiro → Lake Akan Onsenabout 1 hour 30 minutes Lake Akan Onsen → area around Lake Mashu First Observatoryabout 1 hour 15 minutes Lake Mashu → Kawayu Onsenabout 20 to 30 minutes With a car, it is easier to explore the three areas of Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu at your own pace. In Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, highlights such as Hosooka Observatory, Hokuto Observatory, and the Onnenai Boardwalk are scattered across the area, so having a car makes it easier to combine multiple spots. At Lake Akan, lakeside walks and Akanko Ainu Kotan can be enjoyed, while around Lake Mashu, visits to observation decks and stops at Kawayu Onsen can be added without difficulty. A car greatly increases the freedom of your trip. If you want to explore the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area widely over two nights and three days, traveling by car is the easiest method for planning. Rental cars are easy to arrange at both Kushiro Airport and Memanbetsu Airport, allowing you to depart directly after arrival and move efficiently even with limited time. If you drive in Japan with a foreign license, you will need documents according to your country or region, such as an International Driving Permit or a valid foreign driver's license with a Japanese translation. Japan drives on the left side of the road. Be sure to check requirements before departure. In winter, roughly from November to March, roads may be snowy or icy due to snow accumulation and freezing. Choose a vehicle equipped with studless winter tires or check with the rental car company in advance. Traveling by Public Transportation Easier to Explore with Lake Akan Onsen or Kawayu Onsen as a Base Kushiro Station → Lake Akan Onsen (Akan Bus)about 2 hours Lake Akan Onsen → Mashu Station and the Kawayu Onsen areaCheck schedules and transfers in advance It is possible to travel through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area by public transportation, but services in this region are not as frequent as in urban areas, so it is important to allow extra time for travel. Akan Bus operates between Kushiro Station and Lake Akan Onsen, with a travel time of about 2 hours. If traveling by public transportation, rather than trying to pack Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu all into one itinerary, it is easier to plan your trip by staying at bases such as Lake Akan Onsen or Kawayu Onsen and exploring the surrounding areas. For example, you could stay at Lake Akan Onsen and enjoy lakeside walks and Akanko Ainu Kotan, then move to Kawayu Onsen on another day to explore Lake Mashu and the Teshikaga area. This kind of flow allows you to reduce travel strain while still enjoying the differences in scenery. Travel Tip Because this is a wide area, allowing extra time for transportation will lead to a more satisfying trip. By narrowing down the places you want to visit and avoiding an itinerary that rushes through scenery, you can enjoy the relaxed style of travel that suits the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area. What Are the Recommended 1-Night, 2-Day and 2-Night, 3-Day Model Itineraries? Easy Routes for First-Time Visitors Assuming use of a rental car, with travel times after picking up the car at Kushiro Airport or Kushiro Station. Travel times and experience or stay times are shown separately. Course A | 1 Night, 2 DaysKushiro Shitsugen Wetland → Lake Akan Day 1 9:00 Depart Kushiro Airport → Hosooka Observatory Travel: 40–50 min Depart by rental car and head to one of the representative observation spots of Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland. 10:00 Hosooka Observatory Stay: 30–60 min Experience the vastness and scale of the wetland at the beginning of your journey. 11:00 Hosooka Observatory → Canoe Boarding Area Travel: approx. 5–20 min The travel time to the canoe boarding area varies depending on the course. The shortest route is about 5 minutes by car. 12:00 Kushiro Wetland Canoeing Experience: 1.5–2.5 hours Experience the wetland from the perspective of the water. Joining a guided tour and making advance reservations are recommended. 15:00 Canoe Boarding Area → Kushiro City Travel: 30–60 min 16:00 Check In, Dinner, and Overnight Stay in Kushiro City Overnight stay At night, enjoy the food of this port town with Kushiro robatayaki and seafood. Do not miss Kushiro's evening view from Nusamai Bridge, counted among the world's three great sunsets. Day 2 8:30 Kushiro Marsh Observatory Walk Walk: 40–60 min View the wetland from a different angle than the previous day and feel the depth of the scenery. 10:00 Kushiro Shitsugen Area → Lake Akan Onsen Travel: approx. 1 hour 30 min From wetland to lake—the changing scenery outside the car window is also part of the journey. 11:30 Akanko Ainu Kotan and Sightseeing Boat Stay: 1–1.5 hours Experience Ainu culture and take a sightseeing boat to the Marimo Exhibition and Observation Center. 13:30 Day-Use Hot Spring Bath and Lakeside Walk 1 hour or more Conclude the journey with hot springs and the lakeside atmosphere. Hand baths and footbaths can also be enjoyed casually. 15:00 Return To Kushiro Airport: approx. 1 hourTo Memanbetsu Airport: approx. 1.5 hours Course B | 2 Nights, 3 DaysKushiro Shitsugen Wetland → Lake Akan → Lake Mashu and Teshikaga Day 1 9:00 Depart Kushiro Airport → Kushiro Marsh Observatory From airport: 40–60 min From Kushiro Station: 20–40 min Depart by rental car. 10:00 Kushiro Marsh Observatory Stay: 30–60 min Enjoy a panoramic view of the vast wetland and experience the scale characteristic of eastern Hokkaido at the start of your trip. 11:00 Onnenai Boardwalk or Canoe Experience (6:53) Travel: up to 40 min Boardwalk: 30–60 minCanoeing: 1.5–2.5 hours Choose according to weather and physical condition. Advance reservations are recommended for canoeing. 16:00 Check In, Dinner, and Overnight Stay in Kushiro City Overnight stay Enjoy robatayaki and seafood, adding the flavors of a port town to your travel memories. Kushiro's sunset, counted among the world's three great sunsets, is best viewed from Nusamai Bridge. Day 2 8:30 Revisit Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland and Watch Red-Crowned Cranes Morning to late morning Visit observation decks you could not see the previous day, or in winter, head to red-crowned crane watching spots. 10:00 Kushiro Shitsugen Area → Lake Akan Area Travel: approx. 1 hour 30 min The atmosphere of the trip shifts from the openness of the wetland to the calm lakeside scenery. 12:00 Lake Akan Area: Lakeshore, Kotan, and Sightseeing Boat Stay: 2–4 hours If the timing works, be sure to watch a traditional Ainu dance performance (check in advance). You can also enjoy lakeside walking trails and the Akan Fishing Tour. 17:00 Check In, Dinner, and Overnight Stay at Lake Akan Onsen Overnight stay Relax in the hot springs. Enjoy the evening view of the lake and morning mist from your accommodation. Day 3 7:30 Morning Walk Along Lake Akan 30–60 min Encounter the morning mist over the lake, an experience possible because you stayed overnight. 9:00 Lake Akan Onsen → Lake Mashu Observation Deck Travel: approx. 1–1.5 hours Stay: 30–60 min Experience the quiet beauty of Mashu Blue. Whether sunny or foggy, the lake has its own expression. 11:30 Lake Mashu → Lake Kussharo Sunayu Travel: approx. 30–40 min Enjoy the unique lakeside experience of digging in the sand and finding hot spring water. 12:30 Lake Kussharo → Kawayu Onsen and Mt. Io / Atosanupuri Travel: approx. 15–20 min Experience the strongly acidic sulfur spring atmosphere. Enjoy footbaths (5:40) or day-use bathing, and also visit Mt. Io, or Atosanupuri, where volcanic smoke rises. 13:30 Lunch and Shopping in Teshikaga / Roadside Station Mashu Onsen Lunch and shopping Conclude the journey with local foods such as Teshikaga ramen and Mashu soba. Do not forget souvenirs such as Mashu melon and Mashu mango. 15:00 Return To Memanbetsu Airport: approx. 1 hour 10 minTo Kushiro Airport: approx. 1 hour 40 min Travel Through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area, Connecting Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu You are captivated by the endless expanse of Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland. At Lake Akan, you encounter the calm time flowing along the lakeshore and the depth of Ainu culture. At Lake Mashu, you stand speechless before a blue lake wrapped in silence. A journey through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area gently connects each landscape and experience, and before you know it, they become one great travel story. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area The Mizu-no-Kamuy Area, traveled by connecting Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu, is a destination that leaves memories far deeper than simply visiting tourist spots. For your next trip to Hokkaido, why not choose this area as your destination—a place where you can slowly savor not only beautiful scenery, but also stillness, culture, hot springs, and food? When planning your trip, bus schedules, sightseeing facility hours, and seasonal operations may change, so checking the latest information on official websites before departure will give you peace of mind. Also, depending on your country or region of residence, a visa may be required to enter Japan. Be sure to check before departure. [Official Website] https://untouchedhokkaido.jp/en *This article has been written based on information as of March 2026, under the supervision of the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area. 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Autumn Foliage Video Introduction of Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture This video, titled "【Relaxing trip in Japan】Autumn Leaves in Kamakura: Autumn Leaves, Sweets and Jazz," was uploaded by "Japan travel Vlog 〜on the Sofa〜." Starting from Kitakamakura Station, this tour stops at famous autumn foliage spots and famous temples, and then takes the Enoden (Enoshima Electric Railway) train to Haseji Temple. It's a model course for anyone consider viewing the autumn leaves in Kamakura. The video features beautiful autumn foliage accompanied by some relaxing jazz music which goes perfectly with the clear autumn sky, and delicious sweets at a café. Be sure to check it out. [Video] 0:13 - Arriving at Kitakamakura Station Autumn Sightseeing in Kamakura – The Best Time to See the Autumn Leaves Photo：Autumn in Kamakura Kamakura is one of Japan's ancient capitals, and is surrounded by the sea and mountains, providing an abundance of natural beauty. Kamakura was the center of the country during the Kamakura period (1185 - 1333 A.D.), when the shogunate was located there, and the city has many places of historical interest. This year, a historical drama was aired on Japanese t.v., leading to Kamakura attracting even more attention as a tourist attraction. Kamakura's four seasons are decorated with all sorts of colorful flowers and plants, including cherry blossoms in spring, hydrangeas in early summer, and autumn leaves in the fall. Kamakura is a popular sightseeing spot in autumn, but you may also be wondering when the best time to see the autumn leaves is. Here, we'll introduce the best time to see the leaves and the viewing hours for each of the famous places that appear in the video. Read on to learn more! Kamakura in Autumn – Learn the Best Places to View the Autumn Leaves + Recommended Day Trip Courses In the order of the spots visited in the video, we'll also introduce some of the highlights of each tourist attraction as well. ●Engakuji Temple Engakuji Temple is one of the largest temples in Kamakura and is visible as soon as you arrive at Kitakamakura Station. The majestic and powerful gate, which was the setting for Natsume Soseki's "The Gate," is the symbol of Engakuji Temple. The temple is also famous for its Shariden (reliquary hall), where the tooth of Buddha is enshrined. Engakuji Temple is known as one of the best places to view the autumn leaves in Kamakura in autumn, and there are many spots within the spacious precincts of the temple where visitors can enjoy the autumn foliage. Best time to visit: Late November to early December Visiting hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (November), 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM (December) [Video] 0:20 - Engakuji Temple, a Place Famous for Its Autumn Foliage Photo：Autumn leaves at Engakuji Temple, Kamakura ●Tokeiji Temple Tokeiji Temple used to be a temple for women to escape to, and although the temple code strictly forbade men to enter, this was abolished in 1871 (Meiji 4). Today, the temple is popular as a power spot for severing bad relationships and creating good ones. In addition, the precincts of the temple, which have been well maintained since the end of World War II, are beautifully decorated, not only with autumn leaves but also with seasonal flowers, and the temple has become known as a temple of flowers. It has become a famous flower spot in Kitakamakura and attracts many visitors. Best time to visit: Mid-November to late December Visiting hours: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM Photo：Autumn leaves at Tokeiji Temple, Kamakura ●Meigetsuin Temple Meigetsuin Temple is renowned as a hydrangea temple, but its autumn foliage is also a must-see. It's famous for its "Window of Enlightenment," a round window in the main hall, through which visitors can peer into the beautiful garden, reminiscent of a painting. Visitors can also take some picturesque photos, making it a popular spot for Instagrammers. In the garden behind the main hall, which is open to the public when the leaves change color, there are a variety of Jizo statues that visitors can see. Best time to visit: Late November to mid-December Visiting hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM [Video] 0:40 - Meigetsuin, a Temple Famous for Its "Window of Enlightenment" Photo：The Window of Enlightenment at Meigetsuin Temple, Kamakura ●Chojuji Temple Chojuji Temple was built to mourn Ashikaga Takauji, the founder of the first Ashikaga Shogunate, but is open to the public during spring and autumn, making it a great spot to visit during these seasons. The scenic dry landscape garden and beautifully colored autumn leaves are otherworldly. Visitors can sit on cushions placed on carpets in the Shohojo (the head priest's living quarters) and enjoy a relaxing view of the garden. Best time to visit: Mid-November to early December Visiting hours: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM [Video] 3:14 - Chojuji Temple, Open to the Public Only in the Spring and Fall Photo：Autumn colors at Chojuji Temple, Kamakura ●Kenchoji Temple Kenchoji Temple is the first of the five great Rinzai temples of Kamakura and the first full-fledged Zen temple in Japan. The temple's spacious precincts are home to many cultural assets, including the temple bell, a national treasure. If you climb up to the priest's quarters at the far end of the temple grounds, you can enjoy a magnificent view of Kenchoji Temple covered in autumn leaves. Best time to visit: Mid-November to late December Visiting Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM [Video] 4:33 - Kenchoji Temple and Its Magnificent Gate Photo：Autumn leaves at Kenchoji Temple ●Tsuruoka Hachimangu Shrine Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, whose three deities are Emperor Ojin, Empress Jingu, and Himegami, is famous as a power spot for luck in victory, work, and marriage. The shrine is a leading historical site in Kamakura, and is associated with Minamoto no Yoritomo. In autumn, it is one of the best places to view the autumn foliage. The large precincts of the shrine are dotted with autumn leaves, but the depiction of Benzaiten at Genji Pond and the Kamakura National Treasure Museum are recommended as the best spots to view the autumn foliage. Best time to visit: Late November - Early December Visiting hours: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM [Video] 5:51 - Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, a Leading Historical Site in Kamakura Photo：Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura ●Hasedera Hasedera is a temple famous for its hydrangeas, but the autumn leaves are also exceptional. The temple grounds are illuminated from sunset at around 7:00 PM. Hasedera is the only place in Kamakura where you can enjoy illuminated autumn leaves. The temple also has a Jizo statue with a cute smile. It's called Ryoen Jizo, and is said to bring good luck in marriage Best time to visit: Mid-November to late December Visiting hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM [Video] 6:45 - Hasedera, a Spot to View the Autumn Leaves Photo：Autumn leaves illuminated at Hasedera, Kamakura Enjoy Lunch and Sweets – Recommended Restaurants and Cafes When Sightseeing in Kamakura! Photo：Komachi Street, Kamakura If you want to take a break from strolling through the autumn leaves, we recommend visiting one of the long-established shops or cozy cafes that are unique to Kamakura. Especially in the Kitakamakura area, you can find many stylish stores with a relaxed atmosphere. Kamakura is famous for Kamakura Gozan, the five great Rinzai temples of Kamakura, and Kenchoji Temple, the first of the five, is the originator of Kenchin-jiru, a type of Japanese soup, and sells it at Kamakura Gozan Honten (鎌倉五山 本店). The soup is said to have originated from Kenchoji Temple's vegetarian cuisine, and the name Kenchin-jiru was derived from Kencho-jiru, which was named after the temple. Try the historical Kenchin Udon while learning about the history of Kenchoji Temple. [Video] 1:48 - Kamakura Gozan Honten, the birthplace of Kenchin-jiru Kissa Minka is a popular café in an old private house in Kitakamakura. Both the interior and the scenery outside the windows is lovely. The pudding on video is also, homemade, and there is also a menu for simple sweets, including things like French toast and coffee jelly, as well as curry and other dishes. [Video] 2:20 - Kissa Minka, an old-fashioned café with a soothing retro atmosphere Another place to try in Kamakura is Fujiya on Komachi-dori (Komachi Street). Fujiya restaurants are rare and not something you come across often. The sweets are perfectly balanced, and they also have an authentic Western-style menu. [Video] 4:43 - Fujiya, a Restaurant With Sweets and Proper Meals Nagon Shiruko (納言志るこ店), tucked away in an alley, is a long-established sweets shop known for its oshiruko (sweet red-bean soup). The interior of the shop, which is more like an old-fashioned store from Showa-period Japan than a café, is a strangely relaxing place. When the autumn leaves are in season, your body can get cold, so many people enjoy taking a breather with some warm oshiruko. [Video] 5:22 - Nagon Shiruko, a long-established sweet shop in Kamakura Summary of Recommended Sightseeing Spots for Viewing the Autumn Leaves in Kamakura Kamakura, the ancient capital of Japan, is a fascinating place to visit in any season, but it's especially amazing during autumn. The colorful autumn leaves and the famous, historical temples and shrines are truly spectacular, and visitors can enjoy a breathtaking autumn season here. Enjoy a stroll through Kamakura in autumn for some picturesque photos. Every year, special trains such as the Kamakura limited express "Kamakura" (鎌倉紅葉号)and the Kamakura Koyo are also operated, so why don't you take an autumn trip to see the beautiful autumn leaves? 【TripAdvisor】Kamakura, Kanagawa https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g303156-Kamakura_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto-Vacations.html

Introducing Koyasan in Wakayama Prefecture This video, titled "聖地｜和歌山県高野山 / Sacred place Koyasan, Wakayama" was created by "Hiraku KAWASHIMA." It introduces Koyasan a sacred place for Shingon Esoteric Buddhism, registered as a World Heritage Site. Koyasan is located in Wakayama, in Japan's Kansai region. It is a sacred place for Japanese Buddhism, opened by Kobo Daishi Kukai at the beginning of the Heian period 794 AD - 1185 AD), more than 1200 years ago. In this video, you'll see some of the highlights of Koyasan in just 2 minutes worth of footage. Please enjoy the video and be sure to take notes on whatever interests you as well! Koyasan Photo：Koyasan Danjo Garan Hasuike (Lotus Pond) Koyasan is a region in Koya, Ito District, in the northern part of Wakayama Prefecture. It is surrounded by 1,000 meter tall mountains at an altitude of about 800 meters. Koyasan as a place name is a flat basin-shaped area surrounded by eight peaks: Imagi peak, Hoju peak, Mt. Hachibuse, Mt. Benten, Mt. Koya, Mt. Tenjiku, Mt. Youriyu, Mt. Mani, and Mt. Tenjiku all make up Mt. Koyasan. Koyasan is a Zen Buddhist seminary opened by Kobo Daishi Kukai and is a sacred place for Japanese Buddhism. Today, it is a religious city centered around the fundamental dojo "Danjo Garan," the precinct for religious practices. Danjo Garan, one of the two most sacred places along with Okunoin, can be seen from 0:27 in the video. In 2004, twelve buildings along the Koyasan-cho Ishimichi and Kongo-buji Temple precincts (six districts), along with Kumano Hongu Taisha, Wakayama Prefecture, Yoshinoyama Nara Prefecture, and Ominesan Nara Prefecture, were registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In 2016, the Koya Pilgrimage Route, Kuroco Road, Nyonin Road, Kyouosakamichi Fudouzaka, and Mitanizaka were registered as World Heritage Sites. In 2015, the temple's 1200 year ceremony was held, attracting many visitors. In Koyasan, there are many events throughout the year, but the ritual that has been going on every day for 1200 years is "living in nature." This is a ceremony where meals are delivered twice a day to the mausoleum where the spirit of Kukai is enshrined. Koyasan is a sightseeing spot full of history. There are many places where you can enjoy Japanese sweets and food. There are also educational facilities such as elementary schools, junior high schools, high schools and universities on the premises of Koyasan. Highlights of Koyasan Photo：Koyasan Kongobu-ji Temple The video introduces the facilities and temples located at Koyasan. All are within the precincts of Kongobuji Temple, the head temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect of Buddhism. The admission fee for Kongobu-ji Temple is 500 yen for general admission, and 200 yen for elementary school students (※As of Nov. 2019). Next up are some of the structures at Koyasan: ・Daimon (~0:03) The large front gate sitting at roughly 25 meters tall. Designated as an important cultural property. The video shows it lit up and very shiny. ・Danjo Garan (~0:27) The main temple used for general activities. Registered as a National Historic Site and World Heritage Site. ・Konpon Daito (~0:31) The first Tahoto (a form of Japanese pagoda) in Japan with a height of 48.5 meters. Built as a symbol of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. In the video, you can see the main tower shining under the night sky. ・Ichinohashi Bridge (~0:42) There is an approximately 2 km approach from here to Kobou Daishi Mausoleum. ・Shoujoshin-in (~0:46) Koyasan Bekkaku Honsan Shoujoushinin is a shukubo (accommodation facility) and temple that was built by Kukai and later rebuilt by Taira no Munemori. ・Kongobu-ji Temple (~0:50) Koyasan Shingon Buddhism is the headquarters of Koyasan. There are many attractions such as the largest rock garden "Banryu Garden," and fusuma paintings by the Kano School. ・Okunoin (~0:53) There are around 200,000 tombs belonging to the Imperial Family and Daimyo on the approach to the shrine. More than 60% of the graves belong to feudal lords of the warring states period. Miroku stone, which is called the Seven Wonders of Koyasan. It is said to be a stone that fulfills spiritual desire, and that there is benefit when touched. There is a tradition of paying a visit to this place to report on the completion of a pilgrimage to the 88 sacred places in Shikoku and to thank the pilgrims for their efforts. There is also a legend that Kukai, 1,200 years after being enshrined at the temple, is still practicing as a living Buddha. ・Mizumuke Jizo (~1:04) At the Jizo-son (the guardian deity of children), which stands along the banks of the Tamagawa River, sutra wood is offered to the god of Jizo to provide water for the ancestors of the deceased. ・Hasuike (~1:08) It is said that the Buddha is enshrined here. ・Gobyo-bashi (Mausoleum Bridge) (~1:22) The bridge closest to Kobou Daishi Mausoleum is a sanctuary, and photography is prohibited. Although it is not introduced in the video, there is also the "Okunoin approach," "Kondo," "Meaye dou," "Onsha," "Ajimi Jizou," "Sengoku samurai memorial tower," "Tokugawa Family Reidai," "Kongo Sanmaiin," "Koyasan Reihokan, Kurukayado, Ichijoin, Corporate memorial monument, and Hokiin which was built by Kangen. There are also spots where you can get your shuin. Summary of Koyasan Photo：Pilgrim So what'd you think about the holy place, Koyasan? The video introduces just some of the interesting things about Koyasan. Koyasan is also one of the most popular and powerful power spots in Japan. You might even get some power from the video! At Koyasan, you can stay in a shukubo, experience a devotional service, participate in religious events and meditation, and learn about sutras, poetry, and flower arranging, so you can feel the traditions of Koyasan. ◆ Koyasan overview information ◆ 【Address] Kongobu-ji Temple 132, Koyasan, Koyacho, Ito-gun, Wakayama 648-0294, Japan 【Access】 ・ Train: Get off at Gokurakubashi Station on the Nankai Koya Line and walk from Koyasan Station on the Nankai Koyasan Cable ・ By car: Approximately 2 hours from the center of Osaka, the nearest expressway exit “Hanwa Expressway Wakayama IC and Minamihanna Road Habikino IC 【Admission fee】Kongobu-ji Temple: General: ¥ 500 / Elementary school student: ¥ 200 (※as of December 2019) 【Hours】Kongobu-ji Temple 8: 30-17: 00 【Closures】Open daily 【Parking】There are many parking lots in the neighborhood, but please note that it is very crowded on the weekends. 【Phone number】Kongobu-ji Temple 0736-56-2011 【Official Website】Koyasan Shingon Sect Main Temple Kongobu-ji http://www.koyasan.or.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Koyasan https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121341-d1028543-Reviews-Mt_Koya-Koya_cho_Ito_gun_Wakayama_Prefecture_Kinki.html

```html Video Introduction of "Mt. Takao Beer Mount" in Hachioji City, Tokyo This video, titled "Solo Drinks at a Beer Garden - Mt. Takao Beer Mount" (おひとりさまでもビアガーデン・高尾山「ビアマウント」で呑む), was uploaded by "furo1010." In the video, furo1010 is shown heading to Mt. Takao Beer Mount. With its breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and ice-cold beer, Mt. Takao Beer Mount — one of Tokyo's most beloved beer gardens — is a place you'd want to visit even if you're not a mountaineer or hiking enthusiast. Be sure to check out the video to see how the buffet-style food and beer, as well as local sake and other beverages, are enjoyed. What Is Mt. Takao Beer Mount? Discover Over 70 Years of History at 488 Meters Above Sea Level! Photo：Mt. Takao Beer Mount (beer garden), Mt. Takao Located in Hachioji, Tokyo, in Japan's Kanto region, Mt. Takao boasts the largest number of climbers in the world. In the summer, the observation deck restaurant adjacent to the Mt. Takao cable car station transforms into Mt. Takao Beer Mount, hosting a spectacular beer garden. Mt. Takao Beer Mount traces its roots back to 1954, when a film festival and summer evening karaoke contest were held to encourage use of the Mt. Takao cable car — giving this beloved beer garden a history spanning over 70 years. The view from the top terrace of the observation deck restaurant — located 488 meters above sea level — is truly spectacular. On a clear day, the panorama stretches from the Tokyo skyline all the way to Yokohama and even Tokyo Skytree. After dark, the venue becomes a stunning night view spot that's hugely popular on social media. Just one hour from central Tokyo, Mt. Takao Beer Mount offers a rare chance to enjoy delicious food and drinks surrounded entirely by nature. When Does the 2026 Mt. Takao Beer Garden (Beer Mount) Open? Dates, Hours, and Prices Explained! Photo：Mt. Takao Beer Mount (beer garden), Hachioji, Tokyo In 2026, Mt. Takao Beer Mount runs across three seasons — spring, summer, and autumn — giving visitors more opportunities than ever to enjoy this iconic beer garden. The Spring Beer Mount kicks things off from Thursday, March 19 to Wednesday, May 27, 2026, open from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. This edition offers a refreshing alternative to the summer event, with fresh greenery and a cool breeze adding to the atmosphere. The main Summer Beer Garden runs from Saturday, May 30 to Monday, November 30, 2026, open from 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Pricing for the all-you-can-eat and all-you-can-drink buffet (120-minute session) is as follows: 5,000 yen for adults, 4,700 yen for seniors (age 65 and older), 2,800 yen for junior high school students, 1,800 yen for elementary school students, and 500 yen for infants (ages 3 and up to elementary school age; one child admitted free per accompanying adult). With an enormous spread of food and unlimited drinks all included in one price, it's an incredible value. Come and make memories with family and friends at the Mt. Takao Beer Garden! What Food Is Served at Mt. Takao Beer Garden? A Full Guide to the Buffet Menu! Photo：The buffet at Mt. Takao Beer Mount (beer garden) The buffet features a constantly rotating selection of over 30 dishes spanning Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine. [Video] 2:55 - Buffet-Style Dishes Among the must-tries are local Hachioji specialties: fresh salads made with vegetables grown right in Hachioji, the famous Hachioji Ramen, and the mountain's iconic "Tengu Dog" — a 30cm hot dog you won't find anywhere else. [Video] 4:00 - Local Specialties of Hachioji, Tokyo Perfectly paired with the food, the beer selection features draft beers from all four of Japan's major breweries — Asahi, Kirin, Suntory, and Sapporo — inviting you to compare and savor each one. [Video] 4:13 - Beers From 4 Major Breweries Beyond beer, the drinks menu is impressively broad, covering sake, sours, highballs, shochu, wine, and more. Non-alcoholic cocktails and soft drinks are also available, so younger guests and designated drivers won't miss out. [Video] 4:52 - A Wide Selection of Alcoholic Beverages Whether you're visiting with family, a group of friends, or flying solo, Mt. Takao Beer Garden has something for everyone. How Crowded Does Mt. Takao Beer Garden Get? Wait Times, Best Seats, Rainy Day Options, and How to Make a Reservation! Mt. Takao Beer Mount has approximately 500 seats, with each session running 120 minutes. While the venue is spacious, it does get quite crowded on weekends and during the Bon Festival. On weekends and holidays, the busiest time is right at opening around 1:00 pm; on weekdays, the crowds build from around 7:00 pm as after-work groups arrive. For a more relaxed visit, arriving between 3:00 pm and 6:00 pm is recommended. If you'd like to secure your preferred spot, advance reservations are highly recommended. Reservations are available for groups of 4 or more on weekdays, and 10 or more on weekends and holidays. Bookings can be made either online or by phone via the automated AI reservation system. The most coveted seats are on the top floor, known as the "Slab" — the highest point in the venue — where you'll be treated to breathtaking night views. Nature lovers will enjoy the garden area, nestled among the trees, where you can dine with birdsong and fresh mountain air all around. On rainy or windy days, the indoor hall is a cozy option, and covered and tent seating is also available outdoors — so a little rain is no reason to cancel your plans. How Do You Get to Mt. Takao Beer Garden? A Guide to Getting There by Cable Car! Photo：Mt. Takao cable car To reach Mt. Takao, take the Keio Line from Shinjuku Station for approximately 53 minutes and alight at Takaosanguchi Station. From there, it's a 5-minute walk to Kiyotaki Station, where you board the cable car for a 6-minute ride up to Mt. Takao Station — and the beer garden is right there as you step off. During the Beer Mount season, the cable car operates until 9:15 pm, so you can linger over the night views and still make it back with ease. Of course, you can also hike up to Mt. Takao Beer Garden without the cable car. After the climb, that first sip of cold beer will taste all the more rewarding! Can Beginners Hike Mt. Takao? How Long Does It Take to Reach the Beer Garden via Trail 1? Source :Hachinavi Mt. Takao Feature Mt. Takao draws approximately 3 million visitors a year, making it one of the most popular mountains in the world. For those who want to hike up to the beer garden, here is the recommended route. Trail 1 is the best choice for reaching Mt. Takao Beer Garden on foot. Of the seven trails on Mt. Takao — Trails 1 through 6 plus the Inariyama Course — Trail 1 is the most beginner-friendly: most of the path is paved and rest areas are available along the way. It takes around 100 minutes to reach the summit, and approximately 60 minutes to reach the beer garden. After working up an appetite on the trails, why not reward yourself with a well-earned beer and feast in the open mountain air with friends? Things to Do Near Mt. Takao There are a number of things to do near Mt. Takao. Below we'll introduce some places we recommend checking out when visiting the area. Takaosan Yakuoin Temple Takaosan Yakuoin Temple is a temple located on Mt. Takao. They have many seasonal events, such as New Years events and Setsubun, and they even have a fire walking event that's held during March each year. The temple is a 20-minute walk from the same cable car used to access the beer garden. Hours: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Admission Fee: Free Takao 599 Museum A museum with a relax atmosphere that features exhibits relating to the unique ecosystem on Mt. Takao. The museum is located just 4 minutes from Takaosanguchi Station by foot. Hours: April to November: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm (Last admission 4:30 pm), December to March: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm (Last admission 3:30). ※Hours are subject to change due to events. Admission Fee: Free ※Some events/exhibits may have an admission fee Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu is a natural hot spring located at the foot of Mt. Takao. The facility offers hot springs and massages, as well as restaurants where you can enjoy delicious soba and sashimi after relaxing in the hot springs. The facility is a quick 2-minute walk from Takaosanguchi Station. Hours: 8:00 am - 10:45 pm (Last admission 10:00 pm) Admission Fee (Weekdays): Adults: 1,100 yen, Children: 550 yen (Weekends/Public holidays/Peak season): Adults: 1,300 yen, Children: 650 yen ※Peak season fees apply during the following periods: December 29 - January 3, Golden Week, mid-August, November 1 - November 30, and other dates ※Free admission for children under 3 Mt. Takao Monkey Park & Wild Plant Garden A monkey park on Mt. Takao home to some 70 monkeys. The park also features a garden with walkways made from tree cookies and beautiful autumn leaves in the fall. The park is a 3-minute walk along Trail 1 after taking the cable car to Takaosan Station. Hours: December - February: 9:30 am - 4:00 pm, March - April: 10:00 am - 4:30 pm, May - November: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Admission Fee: Adults (Junior high school students and older): 430 yen, Children (Ages 3 and older): 210 yen Takao Trick Art Museum A museum full of mind-bending, Egyptian-themed optical illusion art where you can enjoy taking funny photos. The museum receives support from the Egyptian Embassy, and so the souvenir store has popular souvenirs imported directly from Egypt. The museum is a 2-minute walk from Takaosanguchi Station. Hours: April - November: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, December - March: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Closed: Thursdays Admission Fee (General): Adults: 1,300 yen, Junior high and high school students: 1,000 yen, Elementary school students: 700 yen, Young children (ages 4 and under): 500 yen (People with disabilities): Adults: 1,100 yen, Junior high and high school students: 800 yen, Elementary school students: 500 yen, Young children (ages 4 and under): 300 yen ※Discounts available for groups. Please see the official website for more information Mt. Takao Beer Garden 2026 – Key Highlights and Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit Mt. Takao Beer Mount now runs across spring, summer, and autumn. In 2026, the Spring Beer Mount runs from March 19 to May 27, while the main Summer & Autumn Beer Garden runs from May 30 all the way through November 30 — an extended season that gives you more chances than ever to visit. Each season brings its own unique ambiance, from fresh spring greenery to golden autumn foliage, so why not experience the mountain in a different light each time? During the spring session, guests can also add on a BBQ option featuring premium Noto beef, Noto pork, and seasonal vegetables, grilled right at your table on a lava stone plate — a perfect complement to the all-you-can-eat buffet. Mt. Takao is a destination where mountain climbing and gourmet dining go hand in hand. Whether it's the height of summer or the cool days of autumn, Mt. Takao Beer Garden is the ultimate spot to unwind, raise a glass, and let the stresses of everyday life drift away into the mountain breeze. Come and enjoy nature, great food, and great drinks at Mt. Takao Beer Garden 2026! 【TripAdvisor】Mt. Takao Beer Mount ```