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！

Autumn color video introduction of "Mt. Nasu (Chausu-dake)" in Nikko National Park located in Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. Photo：Autumn on Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausu), Tochigi Prefecture This video, titled "[4K]【Nikko National Park】 Autumn leaves of Mt. Nasu Kanto No. 1 autumn leaves spot 2020," was uploaded by "Superb view of Japan." Mt. Nasu, which boasts some of the best autumn leaves in the Kanto region, is located in Nikko National Park in Tochigi Prefecture. What makes Mt. Nasu so great in autumn is that visitors can enjoy hiking while viewing the beautiful autumn leaves. The combination of the majestic Mt. Nasu and the blazing red autumn leaves, as shown in the video, will make you want to see it in person! Be sure to check out the incredibly scenery in the video in 4K! When to See Autumn Leaves on Mt. Nasu Photo：Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausu), Tochigi Prefecture Mt. Nasu, the main peak of the Nasu Mountain Range, a volcanic group centering on the five peaks of Nasu, is also called Mt. Chausu, and has been selected as one of the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains. Located in the northwestern part of Nasu, Tochigi, in Japan's Kanto region, Mt. Nasu is 1,915 meters (~6,283 ft.) above sea level. Together with Mt. Asahi to the north, it's a great place to enjoy the autumn colors of mountain maples and azaleas in the fall. Because Mt. Nasu is an active volcano even today, you can smell sulfur in the air around it. The best time to view the autumn leaves is usually from late September to early October, and since there is a ropeway, both beginners and advanced hikers can enjoy them. The area is crowded with hikers who come to see the autumn colors every year. Highlights & Where to See the Autumn Leaves on Mt. Nasu Photo：Autumn leaves at Ubagadaira, Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausu), Tochigi Prefecture The highlight of the autumn leaves on Mt. Nasu is the collaboration between the active volcano, Mt Nasu, and the fiery red autumn leaves that can be seen all the way up to the top of the mountain. [Video] 1:33 - Beautiful Autumn Leaves on Mt. Nasu While the view from the top of the mountain is, of course, spectacular, the panoramic view of the town below and the colorful autumn leaves will take your breath away. There is also a well-maintained hiking trail at the top of the mountain, so you can make a round trip around the caldera. If you go when the leaves are changing colors, the spectacular view from Ubagadaira is something you don't want to miss. The volcanic gasses and autumn leaves atop the majestic Mt. Nasu are sure to leave a lasting impression! Don't forget to bring a camera, because this is an excellent spot for taking photos. [Video] 5:57 - Ubagadaira at the Foot of Mt. Nasu Hiking Trails and What to Wear When Hiking Mt. Nasu in Autumn Photo：The Mt. Nasu Ropeway, Tochigi Prefecture Mt. Nasu is a great mountain for both beginners and experienced hikers alike. There are several hiking trails on Mt. Nasu with varying levels of difficulty, but the course using a ropeway is recommended for beginners. For those interested in hiking Mt. Nasu but feel that they are not ready for the challenge of a full-scale hiking adventure, we recommend using the ropeway. It takes about 50 minutes to reach the top of Mt. Nasu from Nasu Ropeway Station. This is a hiking course where you can casually enjoy climbing the mountain while viewing the autumn leaves. For those looking to hike Mt. Nasu, here are some tips on what to wear and what temperatures to expect when hiking during autumn. From late September to late October, the best time to view the autumn leaves, the temperature is usually around 10°C (50°F). Mornings and evenings are cold and there can be strong winds when you reach the summit, so be sure to wear clothing that is easy to put on and take off, as well as layers of clothing to regulate your body temperature. For shoes, wear hiking boots or other suitable footwear for hiking, and don't forget rain gear as the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. Climbing Mt. Nasu for Beginners – Ropeway Fees, How to Get There, Etc. Photo：Mt. Nasu and the Mt. Nasu Ropeway, Tochigi Prefecture When accessing the trailhead by car, there are three parking lots. Nasu Ropeway parking lot: 175 cars Nasu Toge no Chaya Parking Lot 1 & 2: 167 spaces Daimaru Parking Lot: 160 spaces The round-trip ropeway fee is 1,800 yen for adults (junior high school students and older) and 900 yen for children (Ages 3 to elementary school students). The ropeway recommended for those who are just looking to see the autumn leaves, as they can be seen from the ropeway when they're in season. It takes about 4 minutes to reach the station at the top from Nasu Ropeway Sanroku Station. You'll reach the 9th station of Mt. Nasu in no time. Things To Do Near Mt. Nasu Photo：Tsutsuji Suspension Bridge, Nasu Kogen, Tochigi Prefecture Here are some places of interest that we recommend checking out when visiting Mt. Nasu. Nasu Onsen Mt. Nasu is located right next to Nasu Onsen, and in the nearby onsen town, visitors can enjoy a variety of different hot springs to relax after a day of sightseeing or hiking. The oldest hot spring at Nasu Onsen is Shika no Yu, meaning "Deer Hot Spring." This hot spring is 1,300 years old and is the origin of Nasu Onsen. Its name comes from a legend that the local villagers saw an injured deer limping around, but after falling into the hot spring it miraculously recovered. Tsutsuji Suspension Bridge Tsutsuji Suspension Bridge is a beautiful bridge that stretches across a low valley. In the fall, the surrounding trees change to beautiful shades of yellow and orange and delight the eyes of visitors. The bridge itself is aesthetically pleasing as well, so be sure to take a photo with it when visiting. Besides the two places mentioned above, there are a number of other attractions in the area, including the famous "Killing Stone" located across the bridge. According to legends, the stone was said to hold the spirit of a nine-tailed fox demon that turned into such after being vanquished after attempting to assassinate Emperor Toba (1103-1156). In recent years, the stone suddenly split in half, and can still be seen by visitors. Also in the area are numerous waterfalls, museums, and many more exciting things to see and do. There are also some lovely azalea fields nearby that can be seen blooming in the spring. During autumn, they're known for their wonderful foliage. Summary of Autumn Leaves on Mt. Nasu Photo：Autumn leaves on Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausu), Tochigi Prefecture The beautiful autumn leaves against the white smoke and black surface of the mountain make Mt. Nasu a sight that should be on anyone's bucket list. Mt. Nasu is expected to see heavy traffic during the autumn months. When visiting, it's recommended that you check not only the weather forecast, but also how far along the leaves are and how crowded the parking lots are with live cameras. After climbing the mountain, you can stop by an onsen (hot spring) to relax after a long day of hiking. Hot springs can be enjoyed by visitors on even one-day trips at Holiday Village Nasu. In addition to Mt. Nasu, Nikko National Park is home to a variety of scenic locations. If you're visiting Tochigi, be sure to take a moment to appreciate its natural beauty as well! [TripAdvisor] Mt. Nasu

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/

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

■Table of Contents The Nayoro Sunflower Festival, the most famous summer event in Nayoro (名寄市, Nayoro-shi), Hokkaido Introducing the Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park, the venue for the Nayoro Sunflower Festival 2023 Nayoro Sunflower Festival event information Recommended Event #1: Sunflower Goods Market Recommended Event #2: Sunflower picking & wrapping Recommended Event #3: Photo spots in the sunflower field! About Nayoro, where the Nayoro Sunflower Festival is held Recommended spots to enjoy along with the Nayoro Sunflower Festival Introducing spots for fun activities in Nayoro Airsoft Survival Game Canoe Cycling Introducing sightseeing spots in Nayoro Nayoro Munincipal Observatory Kitasubaru Sun Pillar Community Center Nayoro Health Forest (なよろ健康の森, Nayoro Kenkou no Mori) Nayoro Museum of the North (名寄市北国博物館 , Nayoro-shi Kitaguni Hakubutsukan) Roadside Station "Mochi Rice Village ☆Nayoro" Recommended Specialty Products for Nayoro Souvenirs Sunflower Oil Kita no Kagayaki Sunflower Oil Dressing Sunflower Oil Kita no Kagayaki Edible Chili Oil (Rayu) (Medium Spiciness) Local gourmet foods you should be sure not to miss when sightseeing in Nayoro Restaurants where you can eat sunflower oil pork, a local gourmet dish of Nayoro Soba Restaurant Benihana The Soul Food loved by Nayoro Residents! What is Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan? Introducing restaurants where you can eat Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan Restaurant Akagera Ajidokoro Toricho Western Izakaya Bistro Shoraku Kitchen Nagominiwa Nayoro Restaurant Minefuku 4season Recommended places to stay when visiting for the Nayoro Sunflower Festival Mori no Kyukamura Auto Camp Site Nayoro Onsen Sun Pillar Grand Hotel Fujika Hotel Bird Inn Hotel Mystays Nayoro New Fujiya Hotel Hotel Sunflower Sengiya Ryokan A list of articles introducing the Nayoro Sunflower Festival and recommended spots for sightseeing in Nayoro VIEW MORE The Nayoro Sunflower Festival, the most famous summer event in Nayoro, Hokkaido In Nayoro, where many sunflowers are grown, the entire city is covered in sunflowers! Every August, Nayoro's big summer event, the Nayoro Sunflower Festival is held at Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park, and many people come to enjoy the wonderful scenery. This article will focus on information about the "Nayoro Sunflower Festival", a summer event held in Nayoro! In addition, various spots for activities, sightseeing spots, and local gourmet food throughout Nayoro city that you can enjoy when visiting for the Nayoro Sunflower Festival will also be introduced. This article will introduce the charms of Hokkaido's Nayoro city you may not have heard of, from its spectacular natural beauty to its popular tourist attractions! Please enjoy it until the end. Photo: "Sunflower field at Sun Pillar Park", Nayoro, Hokkaido Introducing the Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park, the venue for the Nayoro Sunflower Festival At Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park, around 300,00 sunflowers bloom over an area of about 3 hectares (around 0.6 the size of the Tokyo Dome). This park became famous nationally as the filming location for the movie "Stargazing Dog (星守る犬, Hoshi Mamoru Inu) "starring Toshiyuki Nishida, which was released in 2011. The film "The Destiny" starring Mickey Curtis was also filmed there in 2023. The highlight of Hokkaido Sunflower Park is "Sunflower Hill". You can see the city of Nayoro beyond a vast carpet of flowers! This beautiful scenery can be seen from 0:55 in the video. The sowing of the seeds is timed to ensure that the flowers are at their best for being seen around Mountain Day (August 11th). Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park Photo: Sunflower Field at Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park General Information 【Address】147 Nisshin, Nayoro City, Hokkaido 096-0066 【Access】10 minutes by car from Nayoro station 【Blooming information】 The time of full bloom depends on the weather, but is usually around Mountain Day (August 11th). 【Parking】Available Event Information (Subject to change depending on the year) The Nayoro Sunflower Festival held at Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park is usually held from the first Saturday in August to the third Sunday after Obon, although it may change depending on the weather conditions of the year. The Nayoro Sunflower Festival is a major summer event in Nayoro that attracts many tourists from outside Hokkaido! During the festival a variety of events are held, and along with the sight of many sunflowers blooming to face the open sky, you can see the smiling faces of many visitors! Photo: "Sunflower Tourist Information Center", Nayoro, Hokkaido Recommended Event #1: Sunflower Goods Market Sunflower goods are on sale at the Sunflower Tourist Information Center. At the Sunflower Tourist Information Center, which will be set up in the sunflower field for the duration of the event, Nayoro specialties such as sunflower oil and other agricultural products, and original goods such as limited edition T-shirts, will be on sale! Other popular items include "Shaved Strawberries", a sweet made from shaved frozen strawberries, shaved ice and grilled corn available at food stalls. Business hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM for the duration of the event. Photo: Goods for sale at the Sunflower Tourist Information Center Recommended Event #2: Sunflower picking & wrapping You can pick sunflowers blooming at the festival, wrap them at the Sunflower Tourist Information Center, and take them home with you! Available for sale from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM for the duration of the event. Photo: Nayoro Sunflower Festival Sunflower picking and wrapping Recommended Event #3: Photo spots in the sunflower field! In the middle of the sunflower field, a yellow door that matches the sunflowers and a monument with the word "NAYORO" in large letters suddenly appears. Why not take out your camera and take a picture that will look great on Instagram or other social media? A photo that captures a moment of beauty is sure to become a wonderful memory. The yellow door can be seen at 1:48 and 2:17 of the video. Photo: Monument with the letters "NAYORO" The Nayoro Sunflower Festival is an event beloved not only by locals, but by tourists from outside Hokkaido! Visitors can experience Hokkaido's nature, food and culture, all in a spectacular setting surrounded by beautiful sunflowers in full bloom! About Nayoro, where the Nayoro Sunflower Festival is held Nayoro, Hokkaido is a city located in the northern part of Hokkaido, with a population of around 25,000 people (as of October 31, 2023.) The name Nayoro comes from the Ainu language "Nai Oro Puto", meaning "The place where rivers meet." This is due to the fact that Nayoro is the meeting point of the Teshio river (天塩川, Teshiogawa) and Nayoro river (名寄川, Nayorogawa). Despite being surrounded by nature, Nayoro is well provided for with large commercial facilities, general hospitals, and a public transportation system, with Nayoro continuously placing highly in "Best Places to Live" rankings for Hokkaido. In recent years an increasing number of people from other prefectures have moved to Nayoro, and Nayoro has been making efforts to provide job and housing opportunities for those moving into the area. Access to Nayoro is as follows. ◆ Asahikawa Airport → Nayoro City (Around 94 minutes) Take a bus from Asahikawa Airport to Asahikawa Station (35 minutes), then take a limited express train from Asahikawa Station to Nayoro Station (59 minutes) ◆ Sapporo City → Nayoro City By car: Around 2 hours and 45 minutes from Sapporo city By train (limited express): Around two and a half hours Agriculture is a key economic activity in Nayoro, which produces a variety of specialties, from the largest production of sticky rice in Japan by both production volume and area, as well as green asparagus, pumpkins, potatoes, and sweet corn. In Nayoro, the temperature drops to around -20°C in February, visitors can see "diamond dust", a phenomenon where the water vapor in the air freezes to form small ice crystals that sparkle in the light of the sun. The "Sun Pillar", a phenomenon where diamond dust reflecting sunlight appears as a pillar of light, is a winter specialty of Nayoro. Photo: Diamond Dust Sun Pillar Recommended spots to enjoy along with the Nayoro Sunflower Festival When visiting Nayoro to see the Nayoro Sunflower Festival, why not take a tour of the city? Here is an introduction of popular spots in Nayoro, such as spots for activities, sightseeing spots, and accomodations to recover from the fatigue of your journey! Along with the Nayoro Sunflower Festival, here are other activities to make your trip even more memorable! Introducing spots for fun activities in Nayoro Airsoft Survival Game A survival game played using airsoft guns that fire BB bullets can be enjoyed in Nayoro exclusively in the summer. The completely grass-covered field is located in the parking lot of the Pyashiri Ski Resort, and plywood panels, drum cans, scrap tires, etc. are scattered around the field to add excitement to the game. You can rent a complete set including an airsoft gun and necessary equipment, so you don't have to bring anything! Infrared guns and water guns are also available, so even small children can have fun. The field is also available for one-day private reservation by parties of up to 20 people! Photo: Airsoft Survival Game General Information 【Address】096-0066, Nisshin, Nayoro City, Hokkaido, Nayoro Pyashiri Ski Resort 【Access】10 minutes by car from Nayoro station, or about 6 minutes by car from Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park, the venue for the Nayoro Sunflower Festival 【Ages 】3 years and up 【Period】July to August (period may vary) 【Hours】Morning 9:00-12:00, Afternoon: 1:00-4:00 【Rental Contents】 Pack for empty-handed visitors: Airsoft gun, infrared gun, magazine, battery, clothing (poncho or jacket), goggles, face mask, gloves, BB bullets (around 2,000 rounds) Airsoft Survival Game (half-day experience) reservation page Airsoft Survival Game (1 day private reservation) reservation page Canoe Cycling "Canoe Cycling" is an activity featuring both bicycling and canoeing along the Teshio river. The Teshio river is the second longest river in Hokkaido (after the Ishikari river, 石狩川, Ishikarigawa), and the fourth largest in Japan. Canoe Cycling can be enjoyed during the summer period from early June to the middle of October, and the entire journey takes around three hours from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. While riding to the starting point for canoeing, cyclists can feel the beautiful breeze of Hokkaido's natural beauty. The canoe journey begins at the riverbank right after the cycling ends. Because 70% of the Teshio river basin is covered by forest, visitors are afforded a view of nature that cannot normally be seen. Local canoe guides will accompany visitors, so both beginners and families can participate with peace of mind. Photo: Canoe cycling General Information 【Ages】Elementary Students and up 【Period】Early June to Mid-October 【Meeting Area】 The 1st floor of Station Exchange Plaza Yorona Tourist Information Center Around 6 minutes by car from the Nayoro Sunflower venue Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park 1-10 Higashi 1-jo Minami 7-chome, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0001 【Time requires】From 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, around 180 minutes Canoe Cycling Reservation Page 【Meeting Location Map】 Introducing sightseeing spots in Nayoro Here are some of the must-see spots in Nayoro. If you enjoy these along with the Nayoro Sunflower Festival, you are sure to double the memories of your trip! Nayoro Munincipal Observatory Kitasubaru The Nayoro Munincipal Observatory Kitasubaru is an observatory with an attached planetarium, and is the second largest telescope in Japan that is available to the public. The planetarium features the latest digital planetarium equipment projected on a dome screen 8 meters in diameter! Since the planetarium also has a piano, concerts are sometimes held. Photo: Nayoro City Observatory Kitasubaru, Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】157-1 Nisshin, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0066 【Access】15 minutes by car from Nayoro Station 【Hours】 April-October: 1:00 PM to 9:30 PM November-March: 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM Sun Pillar Community Center The central space of the Sun Pillar Community Center is a multipurpose hall, used as a curling hall in the winter and as a playground for light sports like ball pool and ping pong in the summer! Beginners must be accompanied by someone with experience to use the curling hall. Children's play equipment, including large equipment, is located near the main entrance and is available for use throughout the year. Photo: Sun Pillar community Center, Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】147 Nisshin, Nayoro, Hokkaido 090-0066 【Access】10 minutes by car from Nayoro Station 【Hours】 April to October: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM May to September: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM November to March: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM Nayoro Health Forest Nayoro Health Forest is a vast park with a total area of around 200 hectares, roughly 42 times the size of the Tokyo Dome. It is a facility designed to improve both health and motivation through sports and cultural exchange! In addition to sports facilities such as a 400-meter track for track and field events, a soccer field, and a 36-hole golf course park, walking trails are also available to be enjoyed by both children and adults! In winter, it offers one of the best cross-country ski courses in Hokkaido, and the area is crowded with officially recognized competitions and training camps. Photo: Nayoro Health Forest, Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Aza Nisshin, Nayoro, Hokkaido, 096-0066 【Access】10 minutes by car from Nayoro Station Nayoro Museum of the North The Nayoro Museum of the North is a facility where visitors can learn about the northern winter lifestyle and natural phenomena particular to the north, under the themes of "Winter, Snow and Cold". Visitors can experience the wisdom of our ancestors born from the harsh natural climate of the north. The "Kamuy Forest Corner" introduces the natural environment and culture of the Ainu. The Nayoro Museum of the North is surrounded by greenery, and from the gallery hall visitors can obsere nature and wild birds in each of the four seasons! There are also hands-on activities such as making shika-fue (traditional japanese bamboo flutes) and baking your own rice crackers, so why not make a reservation in advance and give it a try yourself? Photo: SL Snowplow at "Nayoro Museum of the North", Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】222 Midorigaoka, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0063 【Access】Six minutes by car from Nayoro station 【Official Website】Nayoro Museum of the North Roadside Station "Mochi Rice Village ☆Nayoro" Mochi Rice Village ☆Nayoro is a roadside station located at the southern entrance to Nayoro. The store is full of dependable, reliable agricultural products from Nayoro, products made using Nayoro's famous glutinous rice, special products such as sweets and soba made in Nayoro. At the restaurant "Kaze Yorimichi" visitors can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients, such as 100% soba noodles or dishes made with local mochi. Photo: Roadside Station "Mochi Rice Village ☆Nayoro" Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】334-2 Nishimachi, furencho, nayoro, Hokkaido 098-0507 【Access】Ten minutes on foot from Furen Station Recommended Specialty Products for Nayoro Souvenirs Products made from sunflowers grown in Nayoro are especially recommended as special local product souvenirs for sightseers. These unique products are sure to please as souvenirs! If you bring them home for your own dining table, you may enjoy a meal that is a little different than usual. Sunflower Oil Kita no Kagayaki Photo: Sunflower Oil Kita no Kagayaki The sunflower oil "Kita no Kagayaki" is made from 100% non-genetically modified sunflower seeds grown in Nayoro. It is a raw, first-pressed sunflower oil made without the use of food additives and using only the first oil to be pressed, letting the flavor, richness and minerals of of sunflower seeds be enjoyed to the fullest. Sunflower Oil Dressing Photo: Sunflower Oil Dressing This dressing utilizes the characteristics of Nayoro sunflower oil to the fullest and has no peculiar or unpleasant aroma. It is a versatile dressing that goes with a variety of dishes, such as salads or as a sauce for cold shabu-shabu. Sunflower Oil Kita no Kagayaki Edible Chili Oil (Rayu) (Medium Spiciness) Photo: Sunflower Oil Kita no Kagayaki Edible Chili Oil (Rayu) (Medium Spiciness) Fried garlic and fried onions are added to "Kita no Kagyaki" sunflower oil to give this rayu a savory aroma and texture. It goes well with rice and a variety of Japanese, Western and Chinese dishes, and its rarity makes it a popular souvenir. The products that have been introduced here are available for purchase at the Sunflower Tourist Information Center at the Nayoro Sunflower Festival venue. They are also available throughout the year at the roadside station "Mochi Rice Village ☆Nayoro", 「 the Nayoro branch of the Aeon shopping mall」and the gift shop Clim, which can be found on the first floor of Station Exchange Plaza Yorona. These products are also available as hometown tax return gifts. Local gourmet foods you should be sure not to miss when sightseeing in Nayoro Restaurants where you can eat Sunflower Field Pork, a local gourmet dish of Nayoro. "Sunflower Field Pork" is pork from pigs raised on a diet of the leftovers from locally grown sunflower seeds after their oil has been extracted. Sunflower Field Pork is characterized by its mild, refreshing taste and lack of oiliness. Photo: "Sunflower Field Pork", a local gourmet dish from Nayoro, Hokkaido Soba Restaurant Benihana The most popular item on the menu is the Cutlet and Rice (カツめし Katsumeshi), Meal Set, which includes "Sunflower Field Pork" covered in the restaurant's original sauce. Photo: "Cutlet and Rice Meal Set" at Soba Restaurant Benihana in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Nishi 4-jo Minami 4-chome, Nayori, Hokkaido, 096-0014 【Telephone】01654-3-3553 【Hours】11:AM to 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM 【Access】14 Minutes on foot from Nayoro station When visiting Nayoro, a local gourmet dish you should be sure not to miss is "Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan". Here the characteristics and history of Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan will be introduced, as well as restaurants where you can eat Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan. The Soul Food loved by Nayoro Residents! What is Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan? Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan is a home-cooked dish eaten in Nayoro that has been passed down as part of Nayoro's unique food culture since the early Showa era, and is the soul food of Nayoro. Photo: "Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan", a local delicacy of Nayoro, Hokkaido While regular Jingisukan is grilled, Nayoro is stewed in a butcher shop's secret signature sauce. Along with vegetables such as onions and Nayoro bean sprouts, other ingredients including rice cake, udon noodles, and fried tofu are used to soak up the flavor of the sauce. Jingisukan has long history in the Nayoro area. Sheep were valued for their wool's use as raw materials for military uniforms during the Taisho era, and bred in the Chiebun district of Nayoro, with the sheep tending including some 3,000 sheep at its height. Mutton had a strong odor and was initially thrown away without being used as food, but dipping the meat in sauce to remove the odor became popular in the Nayoro area in the early Showa era, and mutton began to be consumed, initially mainly among wool producers. Although sheep farming has ended in Nayoro since the latter half of 1955, Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan remains popular among Nayoro residents as a home-style dish throughout the year. There are six restauraunts in Nayoro that serve the town's original Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan! Introducing restaurants where you can eat Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan Restauraunt Akagera This restauraunt is located on the 1st floor of the Nayoro Onsen Sun Pillar Lodging. The single-person pot "Stewed Jingisukan Set Meal" is very popular. Photo: "Stewed Jingisukan Set Meal" at "Restauraunt Akagera" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Nisshin, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0066 【Telephone】01654-2-2131 【Hours】 Lunch 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM Dinner 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM 【Access】15 minutes by car from Nayoro Station 【Official Website】 Restaurant Akagera Ajidokoro Toricho This long-established store has been in business for 75 years. Besides Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan, there are over 100 items on the menu, with yakitori and kamameshi (A type of rice cooked together with various ignredients) also being particularly popular. Photo: "Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan" from "Ajidokoro Toricho" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Nishi 2-jo Minami 6-chome, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0012 【Telephone】01654-2-2379 【Hours】5:00 PM to 11:00PM 【Access】10 minutes on foot from Nayoro Station Western Izakaya Bistro Relax in a restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere based on a wood-grain interior, where all dishes are handmade without the use of any ready-made products. Photo: "Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan" from "Bistro" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Ogawa Building, 1F, 4-23-1 Nishi 4-jo Minami, Nayoro, Hokkaido, 096-0014, Japan 【Telephone】01654-2-0080 【Hours】5:30 PM to 10:00PM 【Access】10 minutes on foot from Nayoro Station Shoraku Kitchen Nagominiwa Nayoro Enjoy a menu that focuses on Hokkaido-sourced ingredients, such as seafood directly delivered from Wakkanai. Photo: "Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan" from "Restaurant Minefuku" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】3 Minami-cho, Furencho, Nayoro, Hokkaido 098-0505 【Telephone】01655-3-2308 【Access】4 minutes on foot from Furen Station 4season A snack bar with 12 counter seats and 16 box seats. Photo: "Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan" from "4season" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Nishi 4-jo Minami 5-chome, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0014 【Telephon】01654-3-4564 【Hours】8:00 PM to 1:00 AM 【Access】10 minutes on foot from Nayoro Station Recommended places to stay when visiting for the Nayoro Sunflower Festival Here is a list of recommended accommodations for those visiting Nayoro for the Nayoro Sunflower Festival! Please contact each separate lodging facility for reservations or room rates. Mori no Kyukamura Auto Camp Site The Mori no Kyukamura Auto Camp Site is located within Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park, the venue for the Nayoro Sunflower Festival. Besides the center house, there are also five cottages and twenty expansive lawn tent sites. The indoor play garden in the Sun Pillar Community Center contains a large playground where children can play free of charge. In the evening, visitors may also enjoy stargazing at night at the Nayoro Astronomical Observatory Kitasubaru, located within the park. There is a bathing facility called "Nayoro Onsen Sun Pillar" just 10 minutes by car from Mori no Kyukamura, so you can recover from the fatigue of your journey with a sauna or bath. Photo: "Mori no Kyukamura Auto Camp Site", Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Nisshin, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0066 【Access】10 minutes by car from Nayoro Station, within Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park 【Business Periods】 Summer Period: from April 29th/ October 31st Tent sites and cottages are available Winter Period: From November 1st to April 28th only cottages are available Nayoro Onsen Sun Pillar "Nayoro Onsen Sun Pillar" is the only hot spring facility in Nayoro, and the large public bath also includes a sauna. Visitors can stay there overnight, or just visit during the day to enjoy the hot springs. Photo: Nayoro Onsen Sun Pillar, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Nisshin, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0066 【Telephone】01654-2-2131 【Access】15 minutes by car from Nayoro Station 【Official Website】Nayoro Onsen Sun Pillar Grand Hotel Fujika The Grand Hotel Fujika has the largest number of guest rooms in all of Nayoro with 165 rooms in total, and is also located in the center of the city, making it a recommended lodging to use as a base for your travels. Photo: "Grand Hotel Fujika" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Nishi 5-jo Minami 4-chome, Nayoro, Hokkaido, 096-0015, Japan 【Telephone】01654-3-2323 【Access】5 minutes by car from Nayoro Station Hotel Bird Inn The Hotel Bird Inn, with its impressive, spacious entrance, is a hotel where all rooms are barrier-free. All twenty-one guest rooms are spaciously designed, and each room has its own separate bathroom and toilet space. Photo: "Hotel Bird Inn" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Nishi 2-jo Minami 4-chome, Nayori, Hokkaido, 096-0012 【Telephon】01654-9-4567 【Access】10 minutes on foot from Nayoro Station Hotel Mystays Nayoro Hotel Mystays Nayoro, located right next to Nayoro shopping arcade, is a convenient hotel for both shopping and dining. Besides the large public bath, there is also a laundry area to provide peace of mind for long-term guests. Photo: "Hotel Mystays Nayoro" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】5-11 Nishi 3-jo Minami, Nayoro, Hokkaido, 096-0013 【Telephone】01654-8-8100 【Access】10 minutes on foot from Nayoro Station 【Official Website】Hotel Mystays Nayoro New Fujiya Hotel New Fujiya Hotel is conveniently located just a short two minute walk from Nayoro Station on the JR Soya main line. A complementary light breakfast service including bread, coffee and eggs is provided at no additional charge. Photo: New Fujiya Hotel, Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】5-chome Odori Minami, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0010 【Telephone】01654-2-2167 【Access】2 minutes on foot from Nayoro Station Hotel Sunflower Hotel Sunflower has a distinctive yellow exterior, appropriate for a hotel in Nayoro, the city of sunflowers. Both Japanese-style and Western-style rooms are available, so please choose according to your preference. Photo: Hotel Sunflower, Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】8-13-2 Odori Minami 8-chome, Nayoro, Hokkaido 090-0010 【Telephone】01654-3-2929 【Access】3 minutes on foot from Nayoro Station Sengiya Ryokan Photo: "Sengiya Ryokan" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】9-1-1 Odori Minami, Nayoro, Hokkaido, 096-0010 【Telephone】01654-2-3254 【Access】5 minutes on foot from Nayoro Station A list of articles introducing the Nayoro Sunflower Festival and recommended spots for sightseeing in Nayoro Can you imagine the sight of 300,000 sunflowers in full bloom? Visitors can enjoy the unimaginably beautiful sight of a carpet of yellow sunflowers blooming under the big open sky and wide landscape at the Nayoro Sunflower Festival. The sights you see at the Nayoro Sunflower Festival, a cherished summer tradition of Nayoro, will surely remain in your heart for the rest of your life as a precious memory of your sightseeing in Hokkaido. Nayoro in Hokkaido has many spots for activities that you should be sure to try at least once, as well as a number of recommended sightseeing spots you should be sure to visit. Be sure to visit these other places as well as the Nayoro Sunflower Festival. Make great summer memories in Nayoro! If you are interested in sightseeing in Nayoro, be sure to check out the official website listed below as well as the "Cool Japan Video" account, which are both full of the latest information about Nayoro. 【Official Website】Official Nayoro Tourism and Town Development Association COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, a Social Networking Site Dedicated to the Beauty of Japan .caption-heading-2 { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; margin-bottom: 15px; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 40px; } .caption-information-table { background-color: #efefef; margin-top: -20px; margin-bottom: 50px; padding: 20px; border-radius: 8px; width: 90%; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-information-table.blue { background-color: #fffaef; } .caption-information-table .title { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; } @media screen and (max-width: 1024px) { .caption-information-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 30px 15px; } } .caption-heading-table .caption-text li { line-height: 2.5rem; margin-top: 1.3rem; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading { position: relative; border-left: 5px solid #ff1300; padding-left: 10px; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 50px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 1px 15px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-heading-table ul{ counter-reset: listnum; /* カウンターをリセット */ list-style: none; /* 標準のスタイルは消す */ font-size: 1.5rem !important; margin-bottom: 15px; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li{ margin-left: 1.1em; text-indent: -1.1em; font-weight: bold; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li::before{ counter-increment: listnum; /* counter-resetと同じ文字列 */ content: counter(listnum); /* カウントした数に応じて番号を表示 */ content: counter(listnum) ". 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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 beautiful scenery, delicious food, and tasty beer, Mt. Takao Beer Mount is a place you'd want to visit even if you are not a mountaineer or a 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. Mt. Takao Beer Mount – Experience Hospitality at 488 Meters Above Sea Level! A Look at the Event's Nearly 70 Years of History 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, which is adjacent to the Mt. Takao cable car, transforms into Mt. Takao Beer Mount and hosts a beer garden. Mt. Takao Beer Mount is a beer garden that began in 1954 as a film festival and summer evening karaoke contest held to encourage the use of the Mt. Takao cable car and has been ongoing for nearly 70 years. The view from the top terrace of the observation deck restaurant—located 488 meters above sea level—is spectacular, offering a panoramic view from the Tokyo cityscape to the Boso Peninsula during the day. It's also a popular spot on Japanese Instagram for its beautiful night views. Being just an hour away from central Tokyo, you can enjoy delicious food and beverages while surrounded by nature at Mt. Takao Beer Mount. When does the 2024 Beermount start? Learn about the duration and fees! Photo：Mt. Takao Beer Mount (beer garden), Hachioji, Tokyo The Mt. Takao Beer Mount has been held as usual since 2022. In 2024, it will be open from Saturday, June 15 to Tuesday, October 15, from 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The price for all-you-can-eat and drink is 5,000 yen for adults, 4,700 yen for seniors (65 and older), 2,800 yen for junior high school students, 1,800 yen for elementary school students, and 500 yen for infants (3 years old to under elementary school students). It is a great opportunity to enjoy delicious gourmet food and a wide variety of beverages at this price with all-you-can-eat and all-you-can-drink options. Please enjoy it with your family and friends. Food at Mt. Takao Beer Mount – The Perfect Dishes to Go With Your Beer! Photo：The buffet at Mt. Takao Beer Mount (beer garden) Dishes served buffet style will include Japanese, Western, and Chinese menu items. [Video] 2:55 - Buffet-Style Dishes Among the dishes we recommend are local specialties of Hachioj, including salads using vegetables grown in Hachioji and Hachioji Ramen. [Video] 4:00 - Local Specialties of Hachioji, Tokyo The beer goes perfect with the delicious food, and there's beers being served from four major breweries, allowing you to sample a variety of flavors. [Video] 4:13 - Beers From 4 Major Breweries In addition to beer, there's a wide range of beverages, including sake, sours, highballs, etc. Of course, non-alcoholic drinks for children are also available. [Video] 4:52 - A Wide Selection of Alcoholic Beverages Mt. Takao Beer Mount is a great place to enjoy delicious food and drinks, and is recommended for both families and solo guests alike. Information About Wait Times, Crowding, Recommended Seats, Reservations, and More! Mt. Takao Beer Mount has approximately 500 seats and all guests can enjoy the buffet for up to 2 hours. Although there are many seats, the beer garden can be quite crowded on weekends and during the Bon Festival, so be sure to keep this in mind if you're planning on visiting. If you want to enjoy the restaurant without any hassle, we recommend making reservations in advance. Reservations can be made for a minimum of 4 people on weekdays, and for 10 or more people on weekends and holidays. The best seats at Mt. Takao Beer Mount are on the top floor, called the slab. The night views from here are incredible. For those who want to enjoy nature, we recommend the garden surrounded by the forest. You can dine while relaxing in nature. The indoor hall is perfect for rainy or windy days. For rainy days, there's no need to worry, as there is also tent seating set up in the outdoor area. Use the Cable Car for Easy Access to the Mt. Takao Beer Mount Photo：Mt. Takao cable car To get to Mt. Takao, where the beer garden is located, first take the Keio Line from Shinjuku for 53 minutes to Takaosanguchi Station. From Takaosanguchi Station, head to the Kiyotaki Station cable car, a 5-minute walk away. Take the cable car (a 6-minute ride) and get off at Mt. Takao Station to reach the venue. Mt. Takao Beer Mount can also be reached on foot without using the cable car. The food and drinks will taste even better after a nice hike up the mountain! Trail 1 – Hiking Mt. Takao as an Inexperienced Climber/Hiker Source :Hachinavi Mt. Takao Feature Mt. Takao is so famous among mountaineering enthusiasts that around 3 million climbers visit the mountain each year. For those who wish to hike up to the beer garden, here are some recommendations. To get to Takao Beer Mount on foot, we recommend Trail 1. There are seven trails on Mt. Takao: Trails 1-6 and the Inariyama Course. Trail 1 is easy for beginners to climb as most of the course is paved and there are rest areas. It takes approximately 100 minutes to reach the summit and around 60 minutes to reach the beer garden. After a nice workout, why not enjoy the beer garden with some friends in the outdoors? 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 Summary of Mt. Takao Beer Mount Mt. Takao Beer Mount is held both in the summer and in the fall. Last year, it was held from October 19. The atmosphere is quite different during autumn, but just as enjoyable! Also, until the summer beer garden begins, the Mt. Takao Beer Buffet event is held, where visitors can enjoy barbecue cooked on an eco-friendly craft grill imported specially from Denmark. Mt. Takao, is a great place where visitors can enjoy both mountain climbing and gourmet food. Mt. Takao Beer Mount is the perfect for those looking to enjoy a cold beer to beat the summer heat! Relax and take a break from the daily grind and head to Mt. Takao Beer Mount, where you can enjoy nature, tasty food, and satisfying drinks! 【TripAdvisor】Mt. Takao Beer Mount

Video introduction of sightseeing in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture This video shows a man traveling from Otsu, Shiga to Kyoto, while touring historic temples, enjoying natural scenery, and interacting with locals on an atmospheric shopping street. Otsu is home to Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan, and Biwako Valley, a resort complex that offers panoramic views of Lake Biwa from 1,100-meters in the air. It's a treasure trove of tourist attractions, with everything from nature to photogenic townscapes that capture the long history of the area, and can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Enryakuji and Other Famous Temples Around Otsu, Shiga Photo：Enryakuji Temple, Mt. Hiei, Shiga Prefecture Besides Enryakuji Temple on Mt. Hiei (Mt. Hiezan), the Lake Biwa area is dotted with many famous and historic temples. In addition to Enryakuji Temple, we recommend visiting Omi Shrine (近江神宮, Omi Jingu), Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine, and other power spots as well. [Video] 0:14 - Walking the Nyoi Kodo to Miidera Temple ●Enryakuji Temple Enryakuji Temple is the head temple of the Tendai sect of Buddhism with a history dating back more than 1,200 years. It's said that monks and warrior monks have been coming here to study since ancient times, and the temple has produced famous monks, including as Honen and Shinran. It's a recommended power spot where visitors can experience a moment of clarity and confidence. ●Miidera Temple One of the most famous of Shiga Prefecture's ancient temples. It's also known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. Climbing the stone steps, there's an observatory from which you can view the majestic Lake Biwa. The spacious temple grounds are home to many national treasures and stone walls using a unique type of masonry. Many of Japan's most notable cultural assets can be found here. ●Saikyoji Temple The head temple of the Tendai Shinmori Sect of Buddhism, which has more than 450 branch temples throughout Japan. It's said to have been founded by Prince Shotoku. The main hall of the temple is sublime, and the Kyakuden (reception hall), which was built from the remains of Fushimi Castle, has many attractions, including fusuma paintings of by the Kano school, a famous school of painting prominent in 15th century Japan. Akechi Mitsuhide, who contributed to the restoration of Saikyoji Temple after it suffered damage during the Siege of Mt. Hiei in 1571, is enshrined at Saikyoji Temple, along with the tombs of his relatives. Photo：Omi Shrine, Shiga Prefecture ●Omi Shrine Omi Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Tenchi, who is said to be the founder of the Hyakunin Isshu Karuta, an ancient card game involving classical Japanese poetry, and attracts many visitors each year. The shrine is said to bring prosperity to business, ward off bad luck, ensure safe childbirth, bring academic success, protect one's family, cure illnesses, and protect against traffic accidents, among other blessings. Surrounded by greenery, the main approach to the shrine is a soothing space. ●Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine Located at the foot of Mt. Hiei, this is the head shrine of the Hiyoshi, Hie, and Sanno shrines, of which more than 3,800 exist in Japan. Since the shrine was located in an unlucky direction from the capital during the Heian period (794-1185), it's known for its blessings to ward off bad luck and evil spirits. A monkey named Masaru is said to be a messenger of the gods at the shrine, and symbolizes protection against evil, and charms and amulets with Masaru are also sold at the shrine. Immerse Yourself in the Ancient History and Culture of Otsu After touring famous ancient temples, you can experience the culture passed down to the common people of Otsu. Otsu-e, an art form popular among commoners during the Edo period (1603-1867), has a unique design that many visitors find attractive. You can also try your hand at painting clay bells resembling oni (Japanese ogre demons). Also, be sure to visit the Otsu Festival Float Exhibition Center, an exhibition hall themed on the Otsu Festival, one of the three major festivals in the area. In Otsu Hyakucho, visitors can enjoy a tour of traditional shops where they can buy a wide variety of souvenirs. Along the way, you can find the famous Miidera Chikara Mochi rice cakes. A map of Otsu Hyakucho is also available, so you can enjoy exploring the town without a guide. That being said, you can also take advantage of the guided tours of Otsu Hyakucho. It is a unique opportunity to experience the unique culture of Otsu. [Video] 0:48 - Sightseeing Around Otsu Hyakucho A Model Course for Sightseeing in Otsu Photo：Miidera Temple, Shiga Prefecture If you want to enjoy Otsu to the fullest, we recommend taking a tour of the temples and shrines to experience the history of Otsu. You can also visit Miidera Temple, which appears in the video. [Video] 0:38 - Miidera Temple There's also a course specifically for female photographers, which includes Saikyoji Temple, where participants can stroll around photogenic temples, and more. [Video] 2:04 - Saikyoji Temple If you're looking to enjoy the beautiful scenery in the area, check out Mt. Hiei and enjoy a sanctuary in the sky where the entire mountain is considered part of the temple. Shuttle buses are available to take visitors around the mountain. Travelers can also collect shuin stamps from the different temples, up to a dozen of them. There are also courses related to famous historical figures, such as Akechi Mitsuhide. Be sure to check them out! Sushi, Confectioneries, and More – Experience the Cuisine of Otsu! Photo：Funa-zushi, a specialty of Shiga Prefecture Funa-zushi is one of the most popular dishes in Otsu. Sakamoto-ya is a long-established shop that sells funa-zushi, and is designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan. Sakamotoya's funa-zushi is made with a rare species of wild carp from Lake Biwa, and local Omi rice. We hope you will enjoy this traditional Japanese food made with a time-tested family recipe. [Video] 0:53 - Ganso Sakamotoya In Otsu, there's also Yaoyo, a shop that sells pickled vegetables under the Imperial Household Agency's warrant. This store was established in 1850 and has been around since the Edo period. In addition to its pickled vegetables, the shop also sells its specialty Nagarazuke, which are Omi turnips pickled in sake lees, for just a few hundred yen per bunch. You can also buy in bulk for souvenirs. [Video] 1:03 - Yaoyo If you're a fan of traditional Japanese sweets, consider dropping by Kano Shojuan Sunai no Sato (叶匠寿庵 寿長生の郷). On the expansive garden-like grounds, there is an atmospheric traditional Japanese-style teahouse, a restaurant, and a confectionery shop as well. Enjoy the delicate sweets made from carefully selected ingredients and the greenery outside the window. Experience the seasons and indulge your senses in a relaxing environment. [Video] 1:34 - Kano Shojuan Sunai no Sato Hirasansou offers Yamanobe Ryori, a type of cuisine that uses seasonal ingredients foraged from the nearby mountains of Otsu. Visitors can enjoy wild vegetables in spring, sweetfish in summer, matsutake mushrooms in autumn, and wild boar and bear in winter. The restaurant utilizes a wide variety of delicious ingredients nurtured in Japan's Shiga region. [Video] 1:46 - Hirasansou Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho – A Traditional Japanese Townhouse Turned Hotel While you're in Otsu, use this opportunity to stay at a hotel with a different kind of atmosphere. Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho is located inside of a shopping arcade. This is an accommodation facility with a new concept that opened in August 2018. Guest rooms are scattered along the shopping street and the Old Tokaido Road, with a total of 13 rooms consisting of 5 suite-type rooms and 8 hotel-type guest rooms. The townhouses, which are more than 100 years old, have been fully renovated. All rooms are equipped with bathrooms and toilets, famous designer furniture, and top-quality bedding, allowing guests to experience a luxury space that cannot be found in ordinary hotels or ryokan. [Video] 1:18 - Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho Summary of Sightseeing in Otsu, Shiga Photo：The view of Otsu from Miidera Temple, Shiga Prefecture In addition to Lake Biwa, Otsu, Shiga is a hidden treasure trove of wonderful sightseeing spots that have yet to be fully recognized. Otsu is a town where time seems to have stood still, as it still retains the atmosphere of a Japan from a bygone era. There are plenty of natural recreational activities for children as well as adults, as well as photogenic tours for women, and even stylish date plans. We hope you get the chance to experience Otsu, a place with unique history and traditions, unlike the neighboring city of Kyoto. 【TripAdvisor】Otsu, Shiga https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g298202-Otsu_Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki-Vacations.html