Taken on April 12, 26. This is the strawberry jam Basque cheesecake from LEC COFFEE, along with a Sakura x Espresso Latte. Perfect for the cherry blossom season! 🌸

【Information about Shibazakura Takinoue Park on April 29】Good morning. This is the Takinoue Town Tourism Association. Blooming was officially declared yesterday, April 28, so we will begin charging an entrance fee starting today. Today and tomorrow, the 30th, will be a pre-opening, and the opening ceremony for Shibazakura Takinoue Park will be held on May 1, 2025, at 10 AM. The first 50 visitors will receive a commemorative gift. Additionally, the Shibazakura Festival will be held from May 1 to May 31. Today, the sky is clear, and the weather at Shibazakura Takinoue Park is delightful. We look forward to your visit. ------------------------ 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Last entry at 5:00 PM) Entrance Fee Adults (high school students and above) / 500 yen Group of 10 or more / 400 yen Children (elementary and middle school students) / 250 yen Group of 10 or more / 200 yen #Hokkaido #Okhotsk #Takinoue Town #Takinoue #Shibazakura #Shibazakura Takinoue Park

🌲Akaezomatsu Forest Trail🌲 I recently took a stroll through Akaezomatsu Forest‼︎ This is one of the recommended spots to visit in the upcoming season✨ ___________________________ The trail behind Kawayu Visitor Center (@kawayu_vc) is an easily accessible, authentic forest where you can observe the rare Akaezomatsu and Todomatsu trees found in Japan. You can also request a 20 to 30-minute guided tour from the facility staff✨ Especially during this season (from early June to around July), it's recommended to see the clusters of Gozen Tachibana as they transform from white flowers to red berries. At the second-floor café (@cafesoftwood), you can enjoy meals and tea, making the most of your visit to Kawayu Visitor Center☕️🌿 _________________________________ Kawayu - Akaezomatsu Forest Located in Akan-Mashu National Park, Kawayu Onsen spreads at the foot of Mt. Io. This pure forest consists of Akaezomatsu trees that are about 200 years old. The acidic soil, covered in volcanic ash, creates a harsh environment for plants. The representative conifer of Hokkaido, Akaezomatsu, thrives here. Trees around 20 meters tall stretch endlessly, and the forest floor is covered with clusters of Gozen Tachibana. The patterns, scents, and sounds created by the limited plants enhance the charm of this mystical forest as you experience it. (Source: Akaezomatsu Forest Guide Map)

From the top of the mountain The winding path has become passable as the snow melts. Driving up the unpaved mountain road reveals an open view waiting ahead. In winter, I climbed with my grandfather, and together with a cameraman who was there for filming, we gaze at the distant mountains while feeling the wind. My grandfather was being interviewed, holding a can of coffee in one hand. In between, he was also puffing on a cigarette. Sitting on a stump, he said that staring blankly at the scenery in front of him clears his mind. As I listened to his stories, I thought it would be a nice place to bring a sandwich and read a book. My grandfather, who worked in the mountains, always shows me various landscapes. Driving on the mountain road alone feels a bit scary, especially with the atmosphere that suggests I might encounter a bear, but I felt grateful to discover this wonderful place and the arrival of spring. #At the top of the mountain#On a sunny afternoon #Grandfather#Favorite view

🌸🌸 Spring Kushiro Sightseeing Bus Tour [Sakura Edition] 🌸🌸 We are recruiting participants for a bus tour that explores the double-flowered cherry blossom "Kushiro Yaezakura" which originated in Kushiro.☺ Selected by Mr. Inazawa Rokuro, who was engaged in landscaping in Kushiro, this double-flowering variety was registered in 1981. The petals are layered beautifully, making it a very charming cherry blossom. We will visit notable spots in the city and enjoy a tour-exclusive bento at Yanagimachi Park, the venue for the "Kushiro Sakura Matsuri." Please come and enjoy the Kushiro Yaezakura in Kushiro, the final stop of the cherry blossom front in eastern Hokkaido!✨ Date: Saturday, May 16th, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Capacity: 30 people Participation fee: 6,500 yen (tax included) *Please pay in cash on the day. ・Children the same fee Meeting place: KKS Convention Center (Kushiro City Tourism and International Exchange Center) 　　　Gather at 8:50 AM For detailed information and applications, please check the official Kushiro and Akanko tourism website. *Please confirm via the link in the profile section. https://ja.kushiro-lakeakan.com/overview/20909/...

As the air warms up, rainy days become more frequent. Even while walking with a camera, you may find yourself surprised by sudden downpours. When you find a place to shelter from the rain and glance down, you might see a small creature that has also escaped the rain.

A place that many people living in Yokohama may not know. It is the Shanghai Yokohama Friendship Garden. The buildings in Chinese style reflected on the water are beautiful, changing dramatically with the seasons, from cherry blossoms in spring to cumulonimbus clouds in summer. It is one of the recommended spots in Yokohama.

Spring – the height that has been surpassed. Just a few days ago, there was no shepherd's purse. With the colors of the purple dead-nettle added, the earth is beginning to don its spring attire.

A season lacking in the colors of the earth. With the blooming of the plum blossoms, winter seems to change its name to "early spring." The blue sky and plum blossoms. And the vivid contrast of the long-tailed tit has painted a "sign" in the cold air.

Captured on April 12, 26. This is the cherry blossom × Espresso Latte from LEC COFFEE. It features espresso, milk, cherry blossom sauce, and is topped with cherry blossom chocolate. The cherry blossom chocolate resembles cherry petals and is absolutely lovely.🌸

A tunnel of pale pink created by fully bloomed cherry blossoms. As I walked forward, capturing the moment with a shutter click, I reflected on my gratitude for the past and a quiet hope for the future. In Arashiyama, Kyoto, the cherry blossom avenue. It was a moment enveloped in a warm atmosphere, as the soft morning light of spring filtered through the trees, illuminating my hakama and seemingly blessing this new beginning. This view seen through the lens of my smartphone is an unforgettable memory of "spring in Japan" for me.

Taken on April 12, 26. This is a strawberry jam Basque cheesecake from LEC COFFEE.🍓

It's not just about "eating." The scenery, the air, everything becomes a feast. A dish enjoyed at the Kussharo Prince Hotel restaurant offers a luxurious experience that captures the charm of Hokkaido. In the leisurely flow of time, your heart will also be filled. 【Opening for the Green Season starts on Saturday, April 25, 2026】 📍Kussharo Prince Hotel https://www.instagram.com/kussharo_ph...

Among the small flowers that begin to bloom in spring, the charm of the shepherd's purse is particularly captivating. The reason may be that it resembles a tree bearing hearts.

A single sparrow. During the colorless winter season, the camellias begin to bloom, marking the start of a change in the seasons. In a way that takes over from the camellias, the camellia flowers bloom, making spring palpable for the people. A sparrow still dressed in winter attire is so small that it can perch on two leaves, becoming a tiny symbol of spring.

【Shibazakura Takinoue Blooming Information on April 28】Hello. This is the Takinoue Town Tourism Association. Last weekend was warm like spring, and the blooming progressed significantly. The blooming assessment committee, including the town mayor, confirmed that the shibazakura in the designated area was one-third in bloom, and today, April 28 (Tuesday), we declared the "Blooming Declaration." This marks the earliest blooming recorded since observations began in 1985. Additionally, a drawing for the blooming quiz winners was held after the declaration, with 209 correct answers out of 2,936 entries. Winners will be notified through the shipment of prizes. Shibazakura Takinoue Park will have a pre-opening on April 29 (Wednesday, holiday) and 30 (Thursday). Starting the day after the blooming declaration, an entrance fee will be charged. On May 1 (Thursday) at 10:00 AM, we will hold the opening ceremony for Shibazakura Takinoue Park. The first 50 visitors will receive a commemorative gift. This year, we will also hold the "Tenro Staircase Crossing Ceremony" at the entrance path of Shibazakura Takinoue Park, which has been completed. We look forward to your participation in the opening ceremony. Furthermore, the Shibazakura Festival will take place from May 1 to May 31. We await your visit. ------------------------ 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last entry at 5:00 PM) Entrance Fee Adults (high school students and above): 500 yen Group of 10 or more: 400 yen Children (elementary and junior high school students): 250 yen Group of 10 or more: 200 yen #Hokkaido #Okhotsk #Takinoue Town #Shibazakura #Moss Phlox #Shibazakura Takinoue Park #Pink Moss #Flower Stroll

Starting today, April 28th (Tuesday), a new souvenir from Taiki Town, "Sora Tobu Tigre - A Journey Through the Scents of Taiki Town," is now available at Cosmall Taiki! This souvenir was jointly developed by the local revitalization team of Taiki Town and the French patisserie ami poire. Tigre is a baked good originating from France, featuring a moist financier base with a rich ganache filling in the center. We focused on using local ingredients, including those from Taiki Town (haskap, raspberries, honey), Tokachi (eggs), and Hokkaido (flour, butter). Eating it will surely make you feel as if you are exploring Taiki Town. Be sure to give it a try!

Taken on April 12, 26. This is the hot sandwich set with tandoori chicken from LEC COFFEE. The tandoori chicken is tender and juicy. I might visit soon...😊🥪

Dandelions blooming along the irrigation canal🌼 Sparkling like the sun✨️ Nourishing my heart, I feel ready to tackle tomorrow again👍 Wishing everyone a wonderful end to the weekend🌿

Photographed on March 25, 2014. This is the love water at Kawagoe Kumano Shrine.

The snowbell in the photo isn't blooming, but it still seems to have a mysterious charm that makes you feel warm just by glancing at it.

Despite the powerful buzzing sound it makes, this round-bodied bee has large eyes and is known as the bumblebee. Somehow charming, this bee is in its mating season during spring.

On a quiet street in the eastern part of Kagawa Prefecture, there is a udon shop called "Marutatsu." This place is not like the typical busy udon restaurants; it feels more like a refined experience of local culture. Upon entering, the space is bright and spacious, allowing one to relax and savor the moment. I ordered a bowl of the signature udon, and the first thing I noticed was the presence of the noodles themselves. Made from Kagawa Prefecture's wheat "Sanuki no Yume," the noodles are both chewy and elastic, sliding smoothly and offering a delightful texture that showcases the vitality of hand-made noodles. Next comes the soul of the dish: the broth. Made from small dried fish caught around Ibukijima in the Seto Inland Sea, the broth carries a profound umami flavor with a clear finish. Adding local specialties from Higashikagawa, such as Sanuki and wasanbon sugar, enhances the overall taste with a layer of warmth and smoothness. The sweetness is not overpowering; it gently highlights the umami of the fish, making it hard to resist drinking it down in one go. This bowl of noodles can almost be said to be a microcosm of Higashikagawa. From local wheat and catches from Ibukijima to traditional wasanbon sugar, every element is closely connected to the land and culture. A simple bowl of udon, yet it embodies respect for the ingredients and a deep affection for the region. When I left, I felt that I had not just eaten a bowl of noodles, but had also taken a flavorful journey through the landscape of Kagawa.

GW is packed with events! Here are five recommended GW events✨ 1. 'NAGANO Zenkoji Yosakoi' 【Date】May 4th, R8 (Monday, holiday) 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM 【Venue】Zenkoji Omotesando (from Suehirocho Intersection to Shindencho Intersection), Nagano Station Zenkoji Entrance Plaza 2. 'Zenkoji Hanakairo' 【Date】May 3rd (Sunday, holiday) - May 5th (Tuesday, holiday) 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Pedestrian Paradise) 【Venue】Zenkoji Omotesando, Central Square, TOiGO Square, etc. 3. 'Nagano Collection 2026' 【Date】May 5th, R8 (Tuesday, holiday) 【Details】 ・Live Hair Performance 12:00 PM - 12:45 PM at Zenkoji Omotesando (in front of TOiGO) ・Nagako Stage 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM at Central Square 4. 'Nagano Shishimai Festival' 【Date】May 3rd, R8 (Sunday, holiday) 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (held in light rain) 【Venue】Nagano Station Zenkoji Entrance Plaza, TOiGO Square, Central Square, Zenkoji Omotesando 【Stamp Rally】 Collect stamps in the performance areas at each venue, and the first 500 participants will receive an original hand towel designed by students from Oka Design Academy. 5. 'Zenkoji Omotesando Arts and Music Festival' 【Date】May 4th, R8 (Monday, holiday) - May 6th (Wednesday, holiday) 【Time】May 4th and 6th 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM May 5th 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM *Cancelled in case of rain 【Venue】Central Square #GW #event #nagano #Nagano City #Nagano tourism

Azumino: A Floral Trio "Nemophila Edition" The nemophila fields in National Alps Azumino Park, located in Horikane and Hotaka District, are at their peak blooming 😄 With 32,000 nemophila plants ♫ They have appeared in the Den'en Bunka Zōn at Hotaka-guchi 😆 A beautiful blue carpet is spreading out!❗️

Azumino: A Floral Trio 'Canola Flower Edition' The canola flower fields in the Horigane and Hotaka areas of National Alps Azumino Park are in full bloom! 😄 Five million canola flowers are spreading across the fields! ♪ A yellow carpet stretches as far as the eye can see! 😆

Azumino: A Floral Trio "Tulip Edition" The tulip fields in National Alps Azumino Park, Horigane and Hotaka District are in full bloom! 😄 With 130 varieties and 260,000 tulips 🌷 You can enjoy a colorful display of tulips throughout the vast park! ♪ Today and tomorrow, as well as during Golden Week, the Azumino Park Craft Marche Spring is also being held Food trucks and craft shops will be there too Bring the whole family along! 😆

The scenery of Azumino, with its beautiful fresh greenery.

Water has started to fill the rice fields in Azumino that have been plowed. The season of Azumino's breathtaking scenery, "Suikyo," is just around the corner.😊

Notice of Exhibition from Wakeido Tochio Art Museum, Nagaoka City Special Project "Swords Born in the Turbulent Period of Japanese Swords" – A Comparison of Swords from the Late Muromachi Period and the End of the Edo Period – Cooperation: Nihon Bijutsu Token Hozon Kyokai Nagaoka Shibu When considering the history of Japanese swords, it is closely related to Japan's long history, and it is impossible to discuss Japanese swords without understanding this historical background. It is well known that there were significant conflicts during transitional periods throughout the more than 1,000 years since the mid-Heian period when Japanese swords were established. Therefore, upon examining the subsequent Japanese swords, one can notice that they have undergone various changes, including their appearance and form. In other words, it can be said that Japanese swords, which were tools of war, had to respond sensitively to the times and methods of combat. In this exhibition, we will showcase Japanese swords from the beginning of the Sengoku period during the late Muromachi period, which is said to have lasted the longest in history, alongside those from the late Edo period around the Boshin War, which continues to influence and be remembered in modern Japanese history. We hope you will reflect on the changes and commonalities in their shapes, colors, and hamon patterns, as well as the spirit of the Japanese artisans of that time. We warmly invite everyone to come and visit. <Address> 1-13 Uenoharamachi, Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture 940-0237 <Phone Number> 0258-53-6300 <Dates> April 22nd – June 21st <Opening Hours> 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Tickets available until 4:30 PM) <Closed in April> 27th (Monday), 28th (Tuesday) <Closed in May> 7th (Thursday), 8th (Friday), 11th (Monday), 12th (Tuesday), 18th (Monday), 19th (Tuesday), 25th (Monday), 26th (Tuesday) <Closed in June> 1st (Monday), 2nd (Tuesday), 8th (Monday), 9th (Tuesday), 15th (Monday), 16th (Tuesday) https://www.lib.city.nagaoka.niigata.jp/tochibi...