Untie your heart. Lean more>>> After you’ve fully enjoyed Michihigashi, slow down here and let your heart unwind. Bathe in warm light and recharge your spirit. So you can enjoy tomorrow with energy. We await you at Kushiro Prince Hotel🕊️ ―――――――――――――――――――――― At Kushiro Prince Hotel, unwind and recharge in warm light. Let your heart rest after exploring Hokkaido. See you at Kushiro Prince Hotel🕊️ 【Instagram】 @kushiroprincehotel You can make a reservation from the profile URL. https://www.princehotels.co.jp/kushiro/room/...

Scuba Diving in Atami, Japan — A Day Full of Color and Connection 🪸 A few days ago, we went diving in Atami, Shizuoka, one of Japan’s most popular wreck diving sites just a short trip from Tokyo. The moment we descended, we were surrounded by thousands of colorful fish, swirling around the shipwreck like a living rainbow. The vibrant soft corals covering the wreck made the underwater scenery absolutely breathtaking. 🌈 It was an especially memorable day because one of our guests completed their PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course! 🎉 Congratulations on reaching this new milestone in your scuba journey. Every certification represents more confidence, more discovery, and deeper connection with the sea. We were also delighted to dive with a wonderful guest visiting from France 🇫🇷, who made the most of his stay in Japan through diving. Sharing the ocean with divers from around the world reminds us that the sea connects people beyond borders. 💙 Thank you to all our amazing guests for bringing your energy and smiles. Whether you’re trying fun diving near Tokyo, taking a PADI license course, or exploring Japan’s hidden underwater gems, we’re here to make every dive unforgettable. At Hokule’a Shonan, we offer small-group diving trips, from Atami and Izu to Okinawa — all led by certified PADI instructors. 🌺 Contact us anytime to plan your next diving adventure in Japan! 🌊 ---------------------------- 🌈 About Hokule’a Shonan Hokule’a Shonan is a PADI 5⭐️ diving center located in Hiratsuka, Kanagawa, just a short train ride from Tokyo. Our motto is “Let’s embark on a journey to the unseen world.” Through diving, we help people discover the beauty and joy of nature while exploring Japan’s rich underwater world. We offer more than 300 days of diving courses and tours every year, including Izu, Okinawa, and even overseas destinations. With small-group diving and personalized instruction, beginners can dive safely and comfortably. We also welcome custom requests — whether you want to try your first dive, take a PADI course, or join a local ocean adventure! Come and dive with us — let’s enjoy this beautiful blue world together! 🌊💙 #HokuleaShonan #DiveJapan #Atami #WreckDive #AOWDiver #PADI #ScubaDivingJapan #ExploreTheBlue #UnderwaterWorld #JapanDiving #AtamiDive

Japan’s most relaxed full marathon with a 9‑hour time limit! Enjoy Minami-Izu Town’s breathtaking views, 12 local michikusa (side‑trip) specialties, and delicious aid stations that make it feel like a journey! Take it slow, unwind, and pace yourself in this easygoing full marathon. Finishing within five hours disqualifies you! Perfect for first‑time challengers. ------------------------------- The 2nd Minami-Izu Town Michikusa Bochibochi Full Marathon is here! Date: Saturday, November 15 Start & Finish: Aonogawa Furusato Park Event hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM *Note: Finishes within five hours (after 1:00 PM) are not accepted. Details for the 2nd Minami-Izu Town Michikusa Bochibochi Full Marathon https://www.minami-izu.jp/?p=we-page-event-entry&event=554274&cat=18736&type=event...

It is the morning of Saturday, November 8th in front of tomakomai station. Please make sure to bring studless winter tires for your drive.

Photographed on October 18, Year 25. This is the pulling-together of Nakamachi’s float “Prince of Lanling” and Wakitamachi’s float “Ieyasu Tokugawa.”

Photographed on October 18, 2013. From the left: Wakitamachi’s float of Tokugawa Ieyasu, Shintomichō 1 Chome’s float of Tokugawa Iemitsu, and Shintomi-cho 2-chome’s float of the Mirror Lion in a hikikae (float exchange).

A travel journal from Hokkaido, Learn more >>> 📕Leave a little room for tomorrow’s trip. While watching a quiet sunset, gently keep today’s moments in your heart. Take your time and enjoy the journey. ―――――――――――――――――――――― A quiet sunset, a gentle pause before tomorrow’s journey. Find your calm at Kushiro Prince Hotel. @kushiroprincehotel You can make a reservation from the profile URL. #Kushiro Prince Hotel #Kushiro trip #Hokkaido trip #Eastern Hokkaido #hokkaidotravel #visitjapan #japantravel #kushiro #princehotel https://www.princehotels.co.jp/kushiro/plan/all/...

Autumn leaves in Gokasecho🍁 The autumn colors in Gokasecho have suddenly deepened over the past few days🍁 The foliage in front of Shirataki Falls in Kuraoka District is not fully colored yet, but overall the area is at peak color✨ I also visited Myoken Shrine and other spots in Kuraoka District; the maples there still need a bit more time to peak💡 Some areas will continue to change color, but how about a drive to see Gokase’s autumn leaves this weekend?😊 ⚠Notice⚠ The road to Shirataki is a forest road with poor conditions. There is little space for cars to pass. We do not recommend driving if you lack confidence, are in a large vehicle, or are driving a low-clearance car.

Teshikaga Night Sky Enjoyment Workshop Thanks to your support, we have reached the 12th Teshikaga Night Sky Enjoyment Workshop. This year’s theme is the much-anticipated Geminids meteor shower. The program includes a classroom lecture and an observation session. Why is Teshikaga’s night sky so stunning? How should we protect and make the most of this night sky? What exactly is a meteor shower? What are tips for enjoying it? Which astronomical events should you watch for next year? This workshop is packed with answers and insights. If the sky is clear, we will go outside and observe the meteor shower. We hope you get to see bright meteors that can compete with the waning moonlight. To register, contact Teshikaga Town Community Center. 015-482-2340 We look forward to your participation🌌✨

Futakotamagawa Oyama Michi Festival Celebrates Local History Enjoy and learn about the historic Oyama Michi that runs through Futakotamagawa. The 16th Futakotamagawa Oyama Michi Festival will be held. Oyama Michi refers to the routes used by pilgrims visiting Ooyama, with paths centered on the mountain across various regions. The Oyama Michi that passes through Futakotamagawa led from Edo’s Akasaka-mitsuke Gate to Ooyama and served as a back road to the Tokaido, frequently used for transporting goods. This festival offers a close-up opportunity to learn about the history of Oyama Michi. Isehara City will also participate and host a booth. Please join us. ◇ Date and Time Saturday, November 15, 2025, 12:00–15:00 ◇ Venue Futakotamagawa Elementary School building and gymnasium (Tamagawa 4-6-1, Setagayaku) ◇ Setagaya Ward official site https://www.city.setagaya.lg.jp/03660/27555.html...

Atami – Where Adventure Meets Serenity Just 90 minutes from Tokyo, Atami in Shizuoka offers one of the most fascinating diving experiences in Japan — where adventure and serenity come together beneath the surface. Known for its wreck diving and mysterious blue cave, Atami attracts divers who seek both excitement and peace in one destination. The highlight of Atami is the wreck of Asahi No.16, one of the largest wrecks in Japan. Resting quietly on the seafloor, this massive structure is now covered in colorful soft corals and swarming with marine life. As you descend, the silhouette of the wreck slowly appears out of the blue — a breathtaking sight that makes you feel like you’re stepping into an underwater museum. Exploring this wreck is an unforgettable experience for divers who love large-scale structures full of history and mystery. Then, shift from adventure to calm in Atami’s Blue Cave. As you enter, sunlight pierces through the narrow opening, filling the space with an ethereal blue glow. The soft light, bubbles rising toward the surface, and the quiet stillness of the cave create a dreamlike world beneath the waves. It’s a moment of pure serenity — a dive that connects you deeply with the ocean. Whether you’re looking for thrilling wreck diving or a peaceful cave dive, Atami offers both just a short train ride from Tokyo. With easy access, clear water, and diverse dive sites, it’s a perfect destination for weekend divers and international visitors alike. If you’re searching for wreck diving in Japan, or want to discover the best diving spots near Tokyo, Atami is a must-visit. Dive into its hidden blue world — where every moment beneath the sea feels like a journey between adventure and serenity. 🌊💙 📍 Atami, Shizuoka, Japan About Hokule’a Shonan 🌈 Hokule’a Shonan is a PADI 5⭐️ Dive Center located in Hiratsuka, Kanagawa — just a short trip from Tokyo. Our motto is “Let’s embark on a journey to the unseen world.” Through diving, we help you discover the beauty of nature and the joy of exploring the ocean. We offer more than 300 diving tours and courses a year across Japan, from Izu to Okinawa and even overseas. With our small-group style, beginners can dive safely and comfortably while enjoying a personalized experience. Whether you’re taking your first breath underwater or joining an advanced adventure — we’re here to make every dive unforgettable. Let’s dive and enjoy the ocean together! 💙 #HokuleaShonan #DiveJapan #ExploreTheBlue #ScubaDivingJapan #UnderwaterWorld #DivingNearTokyo

How about a drive to the Echizen Coast with everyone? 🚙 I especially recommend the sunset viewed from the coastal road. It’s nice to share summer memories while watching the sunset.

To commemorate the 70th anniversary of the designation of the Amakusa area of Unzen-Amakusa National Park on July 20, 2026 (Reiwa 8), a two-day cycling tour called "Amakusa Round! Amaichi Granfondo 2025" will be held 🚴 A granfondo is an Italian term for a long-distance cycling event. Rather than racing the clock, participants ride at their own pace, enjoying rest and meals at aid stations and soaking up spectacular views along the way♪ Event Overview Dates: Saturday, December 13, 2025 to Sunday, December 14, 2025 Location: Amakusa region, Kumamoto Prefecture (Amakusa City, Kami-Amakusa City, Reihoku) Capacity: Up to 200 riders per day, 400 riders total across two days. Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Courses: (1) Shimashima Test Ride Course Saturday, December 13, 2025. Start and finish at Tomioka Port in Reihoku. About 140 km across Amakusa Shimashima (Amakusa City and Reihoku). For 30 riders experienced in cycling around the Amakusa area. (2) Shimashima Main Course Saturday, December 13, 2025. Start and finish at Tomioka Port in Reihoku. About 80 km across Amakusa Shimashima (Amakusa City and Reihoku). Capacity: 170 riders. (3) Kamishima Course Sunday, December 14, 2025. Start and finish at Kami-Amakusa City Hall Hito Regional Promotion Center. About 80 km across Amakusa Kamishima (Amakusa City and Kami-Amakusa City). Capacity: 200 riders. For application details and more information, search for "Amaichi Gran" and visit the event website hosted by Local Gain Co., Ltd. (080-7577-2505), or see the announcements section on our website! Why not enjoy cycling through Reihoku and Amakusa this December while tasting local food and experiencing the natural scenery? E-bike rentals are also available, so please check those out as well!

A special moment Crab fishing resumed and, for the first time in three seasons, the catch landed on opening day, making for a calm start. Kono Tourist Association will suggest plans tailored to your requests, so please feel free to consult with us. We look forward to seeing your smiles.

Thanks to everyone’s support, donations have surpassed ¥1,000,000 (including town office contributions). The donation period runs until December 18, and our goal is ¥4,392,000. We appreciate your continued support! We would be grateful for your replies so more people will join us—please reply if you can! 🙏

Photographed on October 18, Year 25. This is the hikikae (float handover) between the Nakaharacho float of Kawagoe Taro Shigetada and the Shintomichō 2-chōme float, Mirror Lion.

Good morning ☀ This morning in Tsukigase.

“Bus & Rail Both Ways Discount Ticket” has won the Good Design Award✨ Travel between Hiroshima and Miyoshi with the "Bus & Rail Both Ways Discount Ticket 2025"! With one round‑trip ticket for 2,000 yen, you can travel between Hiroshima and Miyoshi for 1,060 yen less than usual♪ Use a highway bus one way and a JR Geibi Line train the other. Enjoy the leisurely sway of the Geibi Line, or take the highway bus to reach your destination quickly and efficiently— this ticket gives you the best of both worlds. The offer debuted in 2021 and has been popular every year; this is the fifth year🚊 Price One ticket (round trip) … 2,000 yen Highlights📣 1. You can freely choose which leg to use for the outbound and return trips. 2. Special perks are included✨ (Please mention them at the counter when purchasing.) 3. You may use the outbound and return trips on different dates. Purchase Benefits (1) When buying in Hiroshima (traveling from Hiroshima to Miyoshi) ・400 yen taxi voucher valid for taxis in Miyoshi City ※ Asahi Taxi Miyoshi, Geibi Taxi, Shiwaji Taxi, Miyoshi Midori Taxi (2) When buying in Miyoshi (traveling from Miyoshi to Hiroshima) ・400 yen discount voucher for Miyoshi Station West Parking Lot Valid Period April 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026 Sales Locations ●Hiroshima● ・JR Hiroshima Station, Shinkansen Exit, 1st floor ticket office (Travel Information Center) ●Miyoshi● ・Miyoshi City Transportation and Tourism Center, travel information counter (Mon–Sat 8:00–18:00 / Sun & holidays 8:00–17:00) Please ask at the counters above for more details♪ The "Bus & Rail Both Ways Discount Ticket 2025" is valid through the end of March 2026! Enjoy an affordable, fun trip♪

Photographed on October 18, 2013. This is the Seibu Hon-Kawagoe PePe and the Kagami-shishi float.

🍅✨[New Release!]✨🍅 Announcing the launch of "Kimobetsu Tomato Liqueur"! This liqueur uses fresh tomatoes carefully grown by Takaha Farm in town. It contains a generous 50% tomato juice, creating a fruity liqueur. Made possible with the cooperation of Hori Store, Yoichi Liqueur Factory, JA Shinotaru, and Kimobetsu Tourism Association, this is the taste of Kimobetsu! Serve chilled and enjoy neat. Please try it once 😊 Available at Seven-Eleven Kimobetsu Town Store and Kimobetsu Tourism Association

Green Woodwork A workshop used freshly cut, still-damp “green wood” to make everyday items. Participants used only simple tools like knives and shaving horses. For middle school students and older they offered sessions to make wooden spatulas, mini spoons, and small plates. Elementary school children could also join a session to make house ornaments. Under the instruction of Mariko Kusakari, four classes were held in total. I peeked into the house ornament session. The elementary children cut and shaved the wood themselves with support from parents and staff. They touched the wood’s end grain to confirm it was still damp and noticed that different species gave off different scents. Handing tools to children can be nerve‑wracking, but adults stepped in when needed and otherwise watched as the kids did the work. Pieces that started round gradually took on angular, almost pentagonal shapes. After cutting each piece to a chosen size, participants painted them and added a string or wire to finish the ornament. The display included a variety of shapes and colors, each full of personality. We live in a world where many things are easy to buy, so having the chance to make everyday items yourself is truly rewarding. I think I’ll join the wooden spatula workshop next time. #Nishiokoppe Village #Hokkaido #Green Woodwork #green wood #handicrafts #everyday items #mokuiiku (wood learning) #Komu Museum of Art

Explore Tateyama by rental bike on this full-day autumn tour. Cycle through Tateyama, harvest seasonal vegetables, and enjoy a local specialty lunch: Tateyama aburi kaisen-don (seared seafood rice bowl). You’ll also get hands-on experience making a Boso uchiwa, one of Japan’s three major uchiwa fans. Local staff will cycle with the group on the day, so you won’t get lost. We look forward to your participation. Dates: Friday, November 14; Sunday, November 23; Friday, November 28 Time: 10:00–14:30 (please arrive 15 minutes early) Price: ¥17,500 per person Reserve here: https://www.jalan.net/kankou/spt_12205aa1032073135/activity/l000067C2E/?showplan=ichiran...

Reihoku Sunset Marche — November Event Notice📣 This is the announcement for the Reihoku Sunset Marche taking place in November♪ 👀Highlights of this edition of the Sunset Marche👀 ❣Reihoku Sunset Marche will feature agricultural products, processed foods, and prepared dishes from Reihoku. This time it will be held on the same day as the 10th anniversary and olive harvest thanksgiving festival of the neighboring Fukuda Family Olive Orchard.❣ We look forward to seeing everyone 😊 Don’t forget to bring your own shopping bag 🛍✨ 🙇Please note that parking is expected to be crowded, so you may also use the Chamber of Commerce parking lot.🙇 【Planned produce for sale】 ・Cucumbers ・Rice (new crop, late-season) ・Taro ・Sweet potatoes ・Zucchini ・Onions ・Mikan (mandarin oranges) ・Cherry tomatoes ・Peanuts ・Lettuce (sunny, leaf) 🥦🍅🥕🍠🥬🧅🫑🌽🌶🫛🍆🫚🥔 Reihoku Sunset Marche 【Date】Sunday, November 9, 1:00 PM–3:30 PM 【Venue】Amakusa Reihoku Tourism Association (general incorporated association) ※Reihoku Town Product Center facility (4535-1 Kamitsufukae, Reihoku)

I visited the Saga International Balloon Fiesta venue, an autumn tradition. When the balloons take off, the excitement lifts everyone’s spirits and brings smiles to their faces.

We will hold the 4th “Amakusa Reihoku Literary Walk” tourist route creation workshop 🎊 On Wednesday, November 19th from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, the Amakusa Reihoku Tourism Association will host the 4th “Amakusa Reihoku Literary Walk” tourist route creation workshop♪ This session will use the proposed tourist walking routes developed from ideas and discussions in previous workshops to finalize the route🔥 A recap of sessions 1–3 is included, so drop-in participation for this workshop is perfectly fine! If you are interested in literature, history, tour guiding, or community development, please feel free to join us ✨ Date and time: Wednesday, November 19th, 2:00 PM–4:00 PM Venue: Amakusa Reihoku Tourism Association, 2nd floor (4535-1 Kozufukae, Reihoku, Amakusa District, Kumamoto Prefecture) Registration deadline: Monday, November 17th 👉 Please check the announcements section on our website to apply! This workshop is held as part of the FY2025 Kumamoto Future Creation Startup Grant program. Contact: Amakusa Reihoku Tourism Association Secretariat, Ogata TEL: 0969-31-1136 E-mail: info@amakusa-kankou.com

Yuzu Picking Volunteers Wanted! We are recruiting yuzu picking volunteers in Fujikawa Town, Yamanashi Prefecture, one of the leading yuzu-producing areas in the Kanto region. Come and try it for yourself!

I photographed a stunning orange sunrise this morning. I also love the mist along the foot of the mountains. I took this from a farm road in Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture.

Photographed on October 18, 2013. After the evening festival ends, the floats are being prepared to start moving. There are many photos from the Kawagoe Festival….

Panoramic view from the summit of Mount Nagamine The chilly Azumino valley lies under a sea of clouds, with the Northern Alps towering beyond You can only see a scene like this on an Azumino morning!

Azumino Full Moon This is the Harvest Moon setting behind the Northern Alps On cold mornings a sea of clouds spreads below, and the view of the Northern Alps from Mount Nagamine is spectacular!!