Photographed on July 26, 2014. It’s the second day of the Kawagoe Hyakuman-tō Natsu Matsuri. I cooled off at Koedo Kurari.

Gozan no Okuribi: Saidaimonji's Oya-bi This image captures the powerful figures of people carrying the Oya-bi (parent fire) of Saidaimonji during the traditional event "Gozan no Okuribi," which concludes the summer in Kyoto. Men dressed in happi coats and headbands marked with "Saidaimonji Preservation Society" carry a large, fiercely burning torch on long bamboo poles, advancing in a procession toward the fire platform on the mountain. In the darkness, the flames create a fantastical light and heat, conveying the serious expressions of the participants who uphold the tradition, along with the unique fervor and solemnity of the event. Ookitayamakagamiishichou, Kitaku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture

Kibune Shrine Surrounded by Fresh Greenery: Okumiya and Hirakado This scene captures the sacred gate (Hirakado) of Okumiya standing amidst the blue leaves and deep green trees at Kibune Shrine in early summer Kyoto. Lush moss and towering cedar trees line both sides of the approach, adorned with vibrant red lanterns, creating a sacred and clear atmosphere. In front of the gate, a quietly standing worshiper adds to the tranquility, making this image a striking representation of the deep emotional beauty of Okumiya and the rich nature surrounding it. Kuramakibunecho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture

Gion Festival Shinko Festival: Countless smartphones capturing the Mikoshi procession This image captures the magnificent sight of the Mikoshi procession filling Shijō Street during the "Shinko Festival" of the Gion Festival, which symbolizes summer in Kyoto. The Tōmi Mikoshi, shining in gold and white, is powerfully carried by bearers in white garments. In a bid to catch a glimpse of this historic moment, the crowd lining the streets raises a multitude of smartphones in unison. This vibrant scene represents the fusion of traditional festival culture and modern societal behavior, encapsulating the spirit of our times. Gioncho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture

Gion Festival and Kankō-sai: The fervor and procession that fills the night in Kyoto This scene captures the grand procession that fills Shijō Street during the finale of the Gion Festival, known as Kankō-sai. As the warm light of lanterns illuminates the streets, a large number of men dressed in white garments march powerfully alongside the big tall lanterns of "Shiwaka" and the portable shrine. The gaze and excitement from the spectators resonate in the vibrant night streets of Kyoto, echoing the overwhelming fervor and vitality unique to this traditional event as they escort the deities back to Yasaka Shrine. Gioncho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture.

Gion Festival and Shinko Festival: The Enthusiasm of Children Connecting to the Future This scene captures the adorable yet reliable figures of children supporting the Gion Festival's "Shinko Festival," which colors the summer of Kyoto. Dressed in matching white hanten jackets and headbands, the children stand in a line, carefully holding onto a single rope. Their serious gazes and smiles amidst the lively atmosphere convey the warmth of this traditional event, as well as the vibrant spirit that connects it to the next generation. Gioncho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture

Taken on July 30, 2026. Chillax Soda Orange & Mango and a mango cake.🍊🥭 It's hot, so going out is difficult.

📢 Happening today (August 2nd)! The "Shimoda City Fair" is currently being held at Fujisan Kodomonokuni✨ (until August 30th) Today, August 2nd and the 30th, we will host special events! 🐢 Display of Loggerhead Turtles (only on August 2nd) 🍊 Sale of Summer Citrus Sour 💧 Sale of Kannon Hot Spring Water 🎐 Windmill Making Experience 🎁 Galapon Lottery, and more We have activities that the whole family can enjoy😌 For more details, click here👇 https://www.shimoda-city.info/post/20260731...

【ICHI LIVE】 This summer, ICHI will be touring Hokkaido. A LIVE performance will be held in Nishiokoppe Village!! On Saturday, August 8th 5:00 PM OPEN 5:30 PM START At Koban Ko Ban Ko (Former Kitami Shinkin Bank Nishiokoppe Branch) Adults: 2,000 yen High school students: 500 yen Free for middle school students and younger For inquiries, please call 080-6728-1980. #Nishiokoppe Village #ICHI #LIVE #Koban Ko Ban Ko #Summer

Taken on August 1, 26. At Maruhiro Department Store, an event featuring water sprinkling was held. Kobaton and Tokimo-chan also participated in the event. I feel like something good is going to happen since I got to meet Kobaton and Tokimo-chan.☺️🐦🍠

Taken on July 9, 2014. This is the ice café latte from cafe andon, along with a carrot cake made with figs and prunes.

Every culture has its own special season for fireworks. In many parts of the Western world, winter brings the sparkle of fireworks, while in the part of Asia where I come from, autumn is illuminated by the lights of Diwali. But when I came to Japan, I discovered something beautifully different—**summer has a special place for fireworks here.** The sight of people in traditional yukata, enjoying taiyaki, gathering with friends and family, and waiting for the night sky to burst into a grand display of *hanabi* feels uniquely Japanese. The warmth of the summer evening, the laughter around me, and the vivid colors blooming across the sky create memories that stay long after the last firework fades. This photograph captures the **Toda Fireworks Festival**, taken this year from my rooftop—a summer night I will never forget.

Introduction of Fuchikashira from Wakedo Item Number: F380801 Title: Hinode Hansen zu Fuchikashira Signature: Hidetoshi (kao) Certification: N.B.T.H.K. Hozon Tousougu Dimensions: Fuchikashira - Height 38mm, Width 22.5mm, Height of Waist 13.4mm Head - Height 33mm, Width 16.5mm Period: Late Edo Period School: Omori School Explanation The Omori School is a prestigious school alongside the Ishiguro and Yanagawa schools within the Yokotani lineage, founded by Eishou who trained under Yokoya Somin, and it flourished with the second generation, Hidetoshi. Hidetoshi Omori was born in Sendai and became a disciple of Hidetoshi Omori. He was the son of Ichigyokusai Eichi and adopted the name Eichi for the second generation, but received the character 'Hidetoshi' from Hidetoshi, changing his name to Hidetoshi. He is a skilled craftsman specializing in dragon and lion motifs in the Omori style. This piece also features Yokotani-style sand inlay, showcasing the characteristic craftsmanship of the Omori School.

【Gardening Salon Event】 We are excited to announce a gathering where gardening professionals, including Green Advisers, will visit Nishiokoppe Village for an exchange! On August 4th (Tuesday) From 7 PM for about 2 to 3 hours At Koban Ko Ban Ko (Former Kitami Shinkin Bank Nishiokoppe Branch) This will be a casual space to discuss any gardening concerns, share stories about your favorite plants, or talk about your own garden. ▶ Free participation ▶ Open entry ▶ Bring your own drinks and snacks Everyone is welcome to join! If you're curious about what Koban Ko Ban Ko is like but haven't been there yet, please come and check it out!👀 We look forward to seeing you! #Nishiokoppe Village #Gardening Salon #Green Adviser #Exchange #Consultation Meeting

Yachiho Highland Nature Park and Flowering Tree Garden You can now see the beautiful sight of Asagimadara and Swallowtail butterflies at Yachiho Highland Nature Park and Flowering Tree Garden. It's perfect for nature walks, butterfly watching, and photography!✨ We look forward to your visit!😸👒

Taken on July 9, 26. This is the fig and prune carrot cake from cafe andon.

At CAFE ANDON, we offer morning service exclusively during the summer season. It's a quiche plate. It comes with a salad, soup, carrot rapé, prosciutto, and a luxurious quiche.

Event Announcement 📣 On August 2nd (Sunday), the 44th Doshin Off-Road Race will be held in Rikubetsucho 😊 In 1986, the largest dedicated course in Hokkaido, the Rikubetsu Circuit, was established to host races for buggies and ATVs. This tournament marks the final race of the Formula Buggy 2026 series, and an exciting competition is expected 😍 In addition to spectating, we have attractions for attendees to participate in‼ Experience the real course with the "Circuit Ride Experience" and the "Kids-Only Buggy Test Drive," along with the popular "Shibare-kun Fuwafuwa Dome" for children, ensuring a variety of engaging events 🎵 The venue will also feature gourmet offerings such as hot dogs and shaved ice, along with stalls showcasing local specialties from Rikubetsucho. Bring your family to experience the thrilling races and enjoyable attractions! 🔶Date: August 2nd, 2026 (Sunday) at 9 AM Race Start 🔶Location: Motorsports Land Rikubetsu Circuit 🔶Admission: Free 🔶Contact Information Secretariat (Rikubetsucho Office, Industry Promotion Division, Commerce and Industry Promotion Section) TEL 0156-27-2141 https://www.rikubetsu.jp/kanko/event/rally_offroad/offroad8/...

Introduction of the Tsuba from Wakeido Product Number: T380710 Title: Wave Tsuba Signature: Gazan Hidetsugu (kao) Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Hozon Tousougu Dimensions: Length 70mm, Width 65.5mm, Thickness 4.5mm Period: Late Edo School: Ohmori school Description Gazan Hidetsugu learned from Mito Kinko in the Ohmori school, with notable students such as Eino and Eiryuu. He specializes in the wave design of the Ohmori-ryu, and this piece is a typical example of his work. The waves are depicted with golden splashes, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship and high quality.

Introduction of Tsuba from Wakeido Model Number: T380709 Title: Setsurin baijyu karigane sukashi Tsuba Signature: Mumei Daigoro Certification: N.B.T.H.K. Hozon Tousougu Size: Length 84.8mm Width 84.4mm Thickness 3mm Period: Middle of Edo School: Kyo Sukashi Explanation Kyo Sukashi refers to the ground-sukashi tsuba made in Yamashiro Province, famous alongside Owari, Kanayama, and Akasaka tsuba. Similar to other sukashi tsuba, the technique is believed to have developed in the late Muromachi period, and during the Edo period, Kyo tsuba contrasts with the robust and powerful construction of Owari tsuba, being elegant and delicate. The patterns are refined and sophisticated, reflecting the culture of Kyoto. Among them, the tsuba handled by the tsuba merchant, Daimonji Gorobei, during the middle of the Edo period are particularly well-crafted and refined, collectively known as Daigoro tsuba.

🚡Limited to summer vacation! Join us for a special behind-the-scenes tour of the ropeway✨ Explore areas usually off-limits, such as the machinery room and control room, in our special event "Become a Ropeway Expert!"🎓🔍 Learn the secrets of the ropeway and create unforgettable summer memories or conduct your research!😊 📅Held on August 4, 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, and 28 📍Shimoda Ropeway For more details, click here https://www.shimoda-city.info/post/2026726...

Introduction of Tsuba from Wakedo Item Number: T380708 Title: Monsyosei zu Tsuba Sign: Gyoku ryu ken Nobukatsu Certification: N.B.T.H.K. Hozon Tousougu Size: Length 67.5mm, Width 61mm, Thickness 3mm Period: Late Edo School: Iwama school Explanation The Iwama school, founded by Masayoshi Iwama, has produced many skilled craftsmen such as Shinsui, Shinro, Shangluo, and Nobukatsu. Since Masayoshi Iwama studied under Naoyuki Hamano, the Iwama school left behind magnificent works characterized by the high carving of the Hamano style, producing many excellent pieces. This piece also features high relief inlay and color painting typical of the Hamano style, showcasing fine craftsmanship. The diagram of Monsyosei (also known as Bunshousei) The four stars of the ladle-shaped part formed from the first star of the Big Dipper, Kaisei, are deified as Tokai in China, revered as the god of high-ranking officials and success in the imperial examination. The character for 'kai' (demon) is composed of the characters for 'oni' and 'to' (ladle), depicted as a dancing deity holding a brush in the right hand and a ladle in the left. Bunshousei shines as the six stars next to Tokai, and together they are considered the gods of literature. These concepts were transmitted from China, and in Japan, they were regarded as deities bringing peace and prosperity, often depicted with a shachi (mythical creature).

Good morning! Azumino is sunny. It's a perfect day for sightseeing!♪ The temperature is expected to rise, so please be careful of heatstroke. A must-visit in Azumino is Ohisama Road!😆

"Great places, lots to discover." Campaign Phase 2 Registration Starts Starting August 1st, the second phase of the "Great places, lots to discover." campaign will begin accepting registrations. Participating establishments include inns and ryokans from the Kouno Tourism Association. Please note that the number of charge vouchers is limited, so we recommend making your reservations early.

【Karakuri Organ Out of Order】 The karakuri organ "Otogibayashi" welcomes visitors in the hall of Roadside Station Nishiokoppe "Kamu". Normally, it plays music every 30 minutes, but it has been out of order since mid-July and is currently not operational. We sincerely apologize to those who were looking forward to enjoying its melodies. The day when the little karakuri organ figures will move energetically is currently uncertain. We ask for your patience until it can be restarted... Meanwhile, the shop and flower park inside the Roadside Station are operating as usual. Please feel free to stop by if you're passing by. - 【Roadside Station Nishiokoppe "Kamu"】 - Open daily until August 17th (Monday) - Opening hours ▶ 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Closed on ▶ Every Tuesday Admission ▶ Inside the Roadside Station: Free Flower Park: 200 yen for high school students and above Contact ▶ 0158-87-2333 #Nishiokoppe Village #Roadside Station #Kamu #Out of Order #Karakuri Organ

This is Taiwanese oolong tea from CAFE ANDON's special Chinese morning menu. It's available for a limited time until today, from 8:00 to 10:00.

This is the special Chinese morning at cafe andon. It is available for a limited time until July 31st. The hours are from 8:00 to 10:00. Five-ingredient spring rolls Chicken and scallop porridge Lightly pickled celery Soy sauce pickled cucumber Peach almond tofu The spring rolls are freshly fried. It's a luxurious morning. 😊

Event Announcement📣 On August 2nd (Sunday), the 35th Taiki Town Rekifune River Clear Stream Festival, a major summer event that has been held since the first year of the Heisei era, will take place😊 Set against the backdrop of the Rekifune River, which has been rated the "cleanest river in Japan" by the Ministry of the Environment, a variety of programs will unfold from afternoon to night🎵 During the day, unique events such as a pet bottle rocket contest, free character shows, and a fun lottery will be held, showcasing the charm of this space-themed town😍 At night, the festival will feature the summer tradition of the Doshin Fireworks Festival and the thrilling perupne fire festival, among many other attractions✨✨ A ceremony where a 20-meter tall torch is lit is believed to predict a good harvest if it falls towards the mountains and a good catch if it falls towards the sea, making it one of the highlights of the festival‼ Be sure to witness that moment🎶 ★11:00–: Taiki Junior Wind Ensemble ★12:00– / 14:30–: Super Space Sheriff Gavan Infinity Show (Free Admission) ★13:30–: Japan Ground Self-Defense Force 5th Band Performance ★15:40–: Live Performance by Marie Wanri, singer-songwriter ★16:30–: Fun Lottery ★18:00–: Perupne Fire Festival *To participate in the torch ceremony, a numbered ticket is required. Tickets will be distributed from noon at the main office. (First 100 people; children in 3rd grade and below must be accompanied by a guardian) ★19:20–: Doshin Fireworks Festival This festival allows you to fully enjoy the summer charm of Taiki Town. Gather your family and friends and come join us🤗 🔶Date: August 2, 2026 (Sunday) 11:00–20:30 *In case of rain, the fireworks festival and perupne fire festival will be held on the following day, August 3rd (Monday) 🔶Location: Rekifune River Taiki Bridge Upstream Riverbed 🔶Contact: 35th Taiki Town Rekifune River Clear Stream Festival Executive Committee (Taiki Town Tourism Association Office) TEL: 01558-6-2114 https://visit-taiki.hokkaido.jp/tp_detail.php?id=450...

Hello 😊 This is Waraji in Shosenkyo Gorge. It has been hot every day lately, hasn't it? 🌞💦 Still, the trees, birds, and insects in Shosenkyo seem to be enjoying this season, full of energy today as well. ✨ On the way to Shosenkyo, you can admire the majestic Mount Fuji, and in the valley, you can be healed by the cool streams and deep greenery. 🗻🌿 How about refreshing your mind and body in nature at Shosenkyo? 🍃 After enjoying nature, please take your time to savor a meal at "Waraji". 😊 At Waraji, we serve carefully grilled iwana (sweetfish) raised robustly in the summer streams, one by one. 🐟🔥 The aroma of the perfectly grilled skin and the flavor of the tender flesh. It's a proud dish that allows you to taste the blessings of nature as they are. 😋✨ You will enjoy your meal in a kominka (traditional house) that has marked 150 years of history. 🏡 The warmth of the wood envelops the space, creating a nostalgic feeling as if time flows slowly. 🌿 Why not forget about the busy days for a moment and spend some time relaxing in nature? 😊 With delicious dishes and a calming view prepared for you, all of our staff sincerely awaits your visit. ✨🍀