Photographed on 7/22/24. It is a wind chime on the edge of Kawagoe Ichiban Street and a lantern of the Kawagoe Million Lights Summer Festival. In today's rainstorm, the wind chime shelf and wind chime were broken, so it seems that this year's exhibition of rim musubi wind chimes in Kawagoe Ichiban Street has ended.

Ochayaba (also known as Oteranba Observatory) About 20,000 sunflowers planted across roughly 22 ares by members of the Kawayama District Scenic Beautification Council in Takaharamachi on June 1 are now in full bloom! You can enjoy them until early August, so please come visit 🥰🌻 Location: 4239-6 Nishifumoto, Takaharamachi, Nishimorokata District, Miyazaki Prefecture ※⚠️If you use a car navigation system, entering the above address will not take you directly to the site. When you get near the address, look for the signboards that have been put up and use them as your guide!

Photo ⛴️ from the ferry on the way from Rishiri to Wakkanai The sunset was 🌅 very beautiful

Takaharu Satisfaction Campaign♫‼️ Stay at participating accommodations in Takaharu and receive coupons usable at those facilities!! *Participating accommodations* 1. Gokuraku Onsen Takumi no Yado 2. Yunomoto Onsen 3. Oujibaru Onsen Kenkomura (Oujibaru Onsen Health Village) 4. Oike no Yu (tent stays) 5. Oujibaru Park (cottages and tent stays) 6. Oike Camp Village (cottages, bungalows, and tent stays) 7. Sennin no Mori Campground (tents only) *Coupon distribution period* From Monday, July 1, 2024, until checkout on Tuesday, December 31, 2024! *Coupon usage period* Until Friday, January 31, 2025! Coupons are distributed according to the lodging charge per person as follows. (1) ¥2,000 or more up to ¥5,000: ¥500 (one ¥500 coupon) (2) ¥5,000 or more up to ¥10,000: ¥1,000 (two ¥500 coupons) (3) ¥10,000 or more up to ¥15,000: ¥1,500 (three ¥500 coupons) (4) ¥15,000 or more: ¥2,000 (four ¥500 coupons) *Coupons will be distributed at the accommodation. (Distribution ends when the budget is exhausted.)* *Coupons cannot be reserved; they are available on a first-come, first-served basis.* For details, please check the Takaharu Town Tourism Association website below 😆✨

Cycling Guide Tour – Fruit Sweets Plan Last weekend, a group of six joined our cycling guide tour! Under clear skies after the rainy season, we cycled while taking in views of the Alps and the Tenryu River. After arriving at the orchard, we went peach picking. They enjoyed harvesting the most popular variety, Akatsuki. After cycling, we moved to the cafe for peach desserts! Everyone fully enjoyed the cycling and peach picking, which made us happy too. Thank you for joining us!

[Free Participation] LINE Puzzle Event “The Lost Osametachi” Osametachi is a traditional Isehara cultural heritage recognized as part of Japan’s cultural patrimony. Explore the history of Oyama through a puzzle hunt, find the Osametachi by clearing the puzzles, and receive an original Oyama Afuri Shrine achievement certificate!! Period: Through Monday, September 30, 2024 Participation Fee: Free Estimated Time: About 2 hours (depending on hiking pace) How to Join: From the flyer QR code Access to Oyama From Odakyu Line Isehara Station North Exit, Bus Stop No. 4 Take the bus bound for the Oyama Cable (routes I10, I11, I12) and get off at the final stop (about 30 minutes) Organizer: Isehara Plus Project WonderSpace Co., Ltd. Contact: Isehara Plus Project Representative Aoki: 090-6112-4303

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Video! This is the Takaharu Town Tourism Association. Takaharu, Nishimorokata District, Miyazaki Prefecture, lies at the foot of MtTakachihonomine in the southwest of Kyushu. It is a town surrounded by beautiful nature. The town’s population is about 8,000 people (as of June 2024), and it is known for scenery that changes with the seasons. Takaharu in Miyazaki Prefecture charms visitors with its rich natural environment and historical background, offering heartwarming experiences. The name Takaharu is said to come from Takamagahara, the high plain where the gods dwell in Japanese mythology. Here is some recommended information about Takaharu, a town closely linked to Japanese mythology. ■■■Access to Takaharu, Miyazaki Prefecture ■Miyazaki Airport - Access to Takaharu You can reach Takaharu from Miyazaki Airport by the following means. By car: It takes about 45 minutes from Miyazaki Airport to Takaharu via the Miyazaki Expressway. By train: From Miyazaki Airport, transfer between the JR Miyazaki Airport Line, the JR Nippo Main Line, and the JR Kitto Line to reach takaharu station in about two hours. ■■■History, Legends, and Myths of Takaharu, Miyazaki Prefecture Takaharu has long been a region where myths and legends live on, and many stories have been passed down here. It is said to be the birthplace and childhood home of Emperor Jimmu, and many local place names around Takaharu relate to him. The Tenson Korin, the heavenly descent in Japanese myth, is said to have taken place at MtTakachihonomine in Takaharu. Legends about the birth of the land by Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto and the Ama-no-Sakahoko stuck into the summit of MtTakachihonomine at the time of descent remain. ■■■Popular Sightseeing Spots in Takaharu, Miyazaki Prefecture ■Sayano Shrine Sayano Shrine is one of Takaharu’s representative shrines and is said to have been established on the site where Emperor Jimmu was born as recorded in the Kojiki and the Nihon Shoki. A grand avenue lined with cedar trees, said to be the longest shrine approach in Japan, covers the precincts, and its tranquil atmosphere moves visitors deeply. ■Kirishima Higashi Shrine Kirishima Higashi Shrine sits on the eastern foot of MtKirishimayama and is known as one of the Kirishima Rokusha Gongen. Kirishima Jingu in Kagoshima Prefecture prospered as “West Kirishima Shrine,” while Kirishima Higashi Shrine was known as “East Kirishima Shrine.” From the shrine you can enjoy grand views of MtKirishimayama, and the autumn colors particularly attract many visitors. ■Kasumi Shrine Kasumi Shrine is said to grant blessings for agriculture, livestock, health, matchmaking, good fortune, and business success. Legend says that worshiping the white snake that lives in a rock cave on the shrine grounds brings good luck. ■Oujibaru Park Oujibaru Park is a vast park representing Takaharu and a natural treasure to enjoy year-round. You can enjoy wood-themed play areas such as Oujibaru no Ki, where children play with wooden toys, and the roofed play equipment Moo-rii that lets you feel the warmth of wood. ■Okukirishima Oujibaru Park Campground Okukirishima Oujibaru Park Campground is an outdoor spot developed around Koushiobaru Shrine where visitors can enjoy camping in nature. Around the campground you can find burial mounds, walking trails, tennis courts, a fishing pond, and go-karts, making it enjoyable for both children and adults. The site offers facilities that make it easy for camping beginners to use, so anyone can enjoy an outdoor experience with confidence. ■Okukirishima Onsen-kyo Takaharu is also a rich hot-spring area spreading across the Kirishima range, and the town has four hot-spring facilities. This hot-spring village breathes history and tradition, with abundant springs offering various benefits. The spring types include sulfur springs, bicarbonate springs, and iron springs, which are said to improve skin and relieve fatigue. Facilities where you can enjoy high-concentration carbonated springs are also popular. From open-air baths and private baths you can enjoy beautiful seasonal natural scenery. Local cuisine made with regional ingredients is another major attraction. ■Totoro Statue A statue of Totoro, a character from the animated film My Neighbor Totoro, stands in a rural setting in Takaharu. Surrounded by lush natural scenery, the statue makes visitors feel as if they are inside the film. It is a popular photo spot and a memorable place for visitors. ■■■■Local Specialties of Takaharu, Miyazaki Prefecture ■Miyazaki Beef Takaharu is a region with thriving livestock farming, and Miyazaki Beef, representative of the town, is a highly regarded premium wagyu both in Japan and abroad, known for its quality. Its fine marbling and tender texture fill your mouth with rich flavor from the first bite. ■Aged Takaharu Ash-Dried Meat This is meat ash-dried using ash from eruptions of MtShinmoedake. Volcanic ash absorbs excess moisture and odors, enhancing umami and tenderizing the ingredient. These specialties are also popular return gifts for hometown tax donations. ■■■Tourist Information for Takaharu, Miyazaki Prefecture Takaharu offers abundant nature and a compelling historical backdrop. Visit Takaharu to encounter Japanese myths and legends. Cool Japan Video will continue to share recommended information about Takaharu, Miyazaki Prefecture, so please follow us.

On the morning of the Gion Festival procession, The figure of the Yamaboko quietly waiting for its turn There and a little tension in the silence, It gave off an indescribable aura.

Hello 😀 This is the Shosenkyo Gorge Tourism Association. The rainy season has finally ended and summer vacation is here — the sightseeing season has arrived! Come and visit Shosenkyo Gorge 😆 The first photo shows the familiar Kakuempou, the main peak of Shosenkyo Gorge, rising about 180 meters. See the majestic rock mountain with your own eyes. The second photo shows Senga Falls. This roughly 30-meter waterfall chills only the area around it, offering a refreshing coolness. The third photo shows the fissure in the earth directly behind Senga Falls. Don’t miss the spectacular sight of the towering split rock. We look forward to your visit 🙂

Enjoy the sea of Takahama! 🏖️ Hamachaya Introduction~ Takahama Town ☀️ in the middle of summer with the sea open This time, we will introduce the recommended menu of Shiroyama Beaches and Hamachaya Shiroyama! !! 🏝️ Shiroyama Beaches 🏝️ Access beach just 5 minutes by car from Takahama Station, Popular with Locals and tourists! Here you can Unfolds a beautiful scene, Meikyodo cave and Ashikaga Yoshimitsu also loved. It features crystal clear blue water, where you can swim 🎣, snorkel and fish. 🍴 Recommended menu 🍴 🌮 "Taco Rice" 700 yen Volume taco rice. Spicy taco meat and Fresh vegetables are in perfect harmony! 🌶️ 🌭 "Frank Furt" 300 yen Enjoy the juicy Frank Hult! Volume at a reasonable price! 🍴 ☕ "Iced coffee" 300 yen Coffee slowly brewed with ice. Enjoy a refreshing and refreshing drink! ❄️ In addition, there is a wide variety of menu such as Udon noodles curry🍛, grated daikon soba, beef tendon curry🍛, and snacks! Enjoy the summer time at Shiroyama Beaches and enjoy delicious food at Hamachaya Shiroyama! 🌞🍽️

Held in 🎆 a mini fireworks festival From Wakasa Wada Beach to Shiroyama Beaches, Held in a mini fireworks festival for the second time this year. Is it Squid to relax and fireworks Appreciation in a large venue? You can enjoy the Underwater fireworks and fireworks that open in front of you 🎆 Please take a look at the powerful mini fireworks festival. * The photo was held in in the past. Wakasa Takahama Mini Fireworks Festival Date & Time: July 27 Sat 20:00~ Total number of Jade: 170 Location: Wakasa Wada Beach ~ Shiroyama Beaches

Photographed on 7/22/24. At the Otorii Gate of Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, it is a "cloud on the ground" that appears. From 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

August 4 (Sunday) Rekifune River Clear-Stream Festival takes place! The summer highlight of Taiki Town, the Rekifune River Clear-Stream Festival, will be held on August 4. During the day, enjoy a character show, prize draws, food stalls, gold panning experiences, yamabe (landlocked salmon) fishing, and many other fun activities! In the evening, the festival builds to its climax with the Perpune Fire Festival, where towering columnar bonfires seem to reach the sky, followed by an impressive fireworks display. Date and time: Sunday, August 4, 11:00– Venue: Rekifune River, riverbank upstream of Taiki Bridge Stage event schedule 11:00–11:10 Opening ceremony 11:20–11:50 Taiki Town street dance circle 12:00–12:50 Kamen Rider Gatchard & Geats 13:00–14:10 Taiki Town Japan-Taiwan Friendship Association Lychee Seed Spitting Contest 14:20–15:10 Kamen Rider Gatchard & Geats 15:40–16:20 Keishi Tanaka acoustic live performance 16:30–17:30 Prize draw 18:00–19:10 Houto (ceremonial lanterns) and Perpune Fire Festival 19:10–19:20 Hikata River Taiko drumming 19:30–21:00 Doshin Fireworks Display

Mountain Isehara Market is on! Events proceed in light rain, canceled in severe weather. A stage show will take place in the center of the General Sports Park. Food tents, food trucks, and local vegetable stalls will also be available. A variety of tasty and fun offerings await! Sunday, July 28, 2024, 10:00–15:00 Venue: Isehara City General Sports Park (Free admission) 320 Nishi-Tomioka, Isehara, Kanagawa ● Access by train and bus Get off at Isehara Station on the Odakyu Line. Take the Kanagawa Chuo Kotsu bus from North Exit stop 3 bound for Nanasawa, about 10 minutes, fare 240 yen. ▪ If you board routes I-34 or I-36, get off at General Sports Park. ▪ If you board routes I-31 or I-37, get off at General Sports Park Entrance and walk 5 minutes. ※ Walking from Isehara Station takes about 45 minutes. ● Access by car ▪ About 30 minutes from the Tomei Expressway Atsugi Interchange. ▪ About 8 minutes from the Shin-Tomei Expressway Isehara-Ōyama Interchange. ※ Congestion is expected, so please use public transportation when possible. For details and inquiries, please see the flyer. Lots of delicious treats! Please come and fully enjoy Isehara!!

It is a sunset view of Hyakungura in Kumano Kodo and Kokumotori-Etsu. The sun is going down quietly.

It is a hankai grass that blooms in a mountain stream. I tried to express the stream of water with a slow shutter.

Photographed on 7/22/24. It is Hanachozu of Naritasan Kawagoe Betsuin. Yesterday, I Visiting the site of the Goma Prayer. The prayer for protection was very powerful and.

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Local Specialty and Souvenir: Takana Nikuman Takana nikuman is a local gourmet treat sold only during the winter season. Its main fillings are takana (pickled mustard greens), bamboo shoots harvested in Gokasecho, and minced pork. The ingredients are stir-fried with sesame oil, sugar, and soy sauce to bring out their deep natural flavors and aromas. A spicy homemade mustard is also included, recommended for adding a flavorful kick. Loved both within and beyond the town, this is a must-try delicacy. Enjoy!

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho specialty souvenir: Hanameguri (yokan and yuzu yokan) Hanameguri is a handmade yokan made from Gokase-grown azuki beans that are slowly simmered over time and carefully kneaded by hand for many hours. You can taste the full flavor of the azuki beans, and the exquisite balance of sweetness and saltiness reveals a profound flavor that opens your eyes the moment you bite into it. Enjoy a peaceful moment with this Gokasecho specialty paired with the rare kama-iri tea, a local prized tea.

Specialties and Souvenirs of Gokasecho, Miyazaki Prefecture: Gokase Yamame Gokase Yamame are fish raised in the yamame village at the source of the Gokase River, skewered and charcoal-grilled until golden and seasoned to perfection. Varieties include lightly sweet-and-salty simmered yamame (yamame kanroni), ginger-flavored simmered yamame (yamame shiguren), yamame slowly stewed with sansho pepper (yamame sanshoni), and yamame gently simmered wrapped in kombu seaweed so the fish broth soaks into the kelp (yamame kombu-maki). The bones are soft, making them safe and easy to eat for children and older adults.

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho local product and souvenir: Babba Club’s karinto Karinto made by the Kawanochi district processing group Babba Club These additive-free snacks focus on safety and peace of mind. They also make Adam cookies and longevity senbei. Handmade pickles are also popular.

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Specialty and Souvenir: Log-grown shiitake mushrooms These "log-grown shiitake" thrive in clear air, fertile soil, and mineral-rich water They are a local specialty prized for their rich aroma and texture They also make a recommended gift for someone special.

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Specialty Products and Souvenirs: Gokase Wine Nestled in rich nature atop a hill at 660 meters stands Gokase Winery. A climate with large temperature swings and pure water nurtures grapes with an exquisite balance of sugar and acidity. “We wanted to make wine using 100% locally grown grapes.” With that wish, the winery opened in 2005. Wines made from freshly harvested grapes have a juicy, fruity character. Please enjoy wines made from 100% Gokase-grown grapes, filled with the scent of the earth. Wine Introductions ■ Niagara (white, sweet — most popular) Grape variety: Niagara This white wine made from the table grape Niagara has a beautiful golden color. Aroma reminiscent of osmanthus with added fresh notes makes for a pleasantly refreshing sweet wine. ■ Delaware (white, slightly sweet) Grape variety: Delaware The pale yellow hue of Delaware is easy on the eyes in this white wine. Its citrus-like aroma and fresh acidity pair well with a wide range of meat dishes. ■ Chardonnay (white, medium dry) Grape variety: Chardonnay Chardonnay shows a lovely pale yellow-green that evokes Gokase’s spring buds. Its lively acidity is refreshing and leaves a clean finish. This crisp, slightly dry style pairs well with fish-based Japanese cuisine. ■ Campbell Early (rosé, slightly sweet) Grape variety: Campbell Early This slightly sweet rosé locks in the grape’s fresh fragrance and natural sweetness. Its vivid color is as striking as a sunset pouring over Kuwanochi. ■ Yuhi (red, dry) Grape varieties: Merlot, Petit Verdot Merlot and Petit Verdot were aged carefully in barrels for one year. This light-bodied red balances gentle acidity and tannin for easy drinking. ■ Juju (sparkling, white) Grape variety: Niagara Keeping Niagara’s characteristic aroma, this sparkling version transforms it into a crisp Niagara. It has a refreshing mouthfeel. ■ Oubu (sparkling, rosé) Grape variety: Campbell Early A sparkling wine made from the table grape Campbell Early. Enjoy its mature, developed flavor. ■ Ryoka (sparkling, white) Grape variety: Chardonnay A sparkling wine made from Chardonnay, featuring youthful, fresh fruit aromas and moderate acidity. It is dry and sharp in taste and pairs excellently with fish dishes. ■ Akane (red, dry) This is a half bottle (360 ml). Named Akane to evoke the beautiful autumn sunset skies visible from Gokase Winery. A Merlot-dominant red. Akane, finished dry, rested in stainless tanks for a light taste. It features gentle tannins and clean acidity. Other options include half (360 ml) bottles of Niagara, Rosé, and Chardonnay.

[Miyazaki Prefecture, Gokasecho] Local Specialty and Souvenir: kama-iri tea Kama-iri tea is made by pan-frying tea leaves instead of steaming them. This method, similar to the process used for oolong tea, brings out the tea’s natural aroma. Compared with standard steamed teas, it boasts a light, refreshing flavor and excellent fragrance that make it easy to drink cup after cup.

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Gourmet: Hinatamichi Hinatamichi is an izakaya in the Kuraoka area This izakaya, where you can also sing karaoke, fills up with locals In summer, guests can enjoy a beer garden as well Because the restaurant has irregular holidays, it’s best to call ahead before visiting Hours: Contact for details Closed: Irregular holidays Contact 3263 Kuraoka, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture 882-1201 Phone: 0982-83-2360

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Gourmet — Yakitori Masa-chan When night falls in Gokasecho, this is the place to be: Yakitori Masa-chan With a wide variety of yakitori and a cold beer, you might just feel like a true Gokase local!? Besides yakitori, they offer a selection of proud signature dishes! Hours: From 17:00 Closed: Sundays Contact 10650-5, Sangasho, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture 882-1203 Phone: 0982-82-1541

[Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Gourmet] Takara Shop A snack bar you can also use for after-parties. It's a good idea to call ahead before visiting. [Hours] 7:00 PM–1:00 AM [Closed] Irregular holidays [Contact] 10650-1, Sankasho, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture 882-1203 Phone: 0982-82-1539

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Gourmet: Akaneya Sabou Akaneya Sabou sits on a hilltop It opened in 2021 as a cafe with views of Mt. Aso. Their hamburgers are perfect for lunch, and the monthly limited lunch menu is also popular. This is the only restaurant in Gokasecho where you can dine with your dog. Hours: 11:00–17:00 Closed: Wednesdays Contact 67 Sangasho, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture 882-1203 Phone: 0982-82-1107

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Gourmet: Rest House Shima Rest House & Guesthouse Shima sits along National Route 265 by the Gokase River Here you can enjoy dishes like seafood champon and a Takachiho beef set meal The champon in particular is loaded with toppings and very filling! Feel free to stop by just for a meal Hours: Irregular holidays Contact 4871-1 Kuraoka, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture 882-1201 Phone: 0982-83-2837

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Gourmet: IL gardino della corasita IL gardino della corasita is a garden café–style restaurant run by the auberge corasita, a stay-in restaurant operated by a tomato farm. (IL gardino della corasita means "corasita's garden" in Italian.) Dinner service is available only on nights when no overnight guests are staying. The restaurant is also available for lunch, celebrations, banquets, and trainings. Hours of operation By reservation only Lunch 11:30–13:30 (last order 13:00) Dinner 17:00–20:30 (last order 20:00) Closed: irregular holidays Please note that if someone is staying on your desired date, dinner cannot be served. Outdoor garden seating depends on the season and weather; please inquire when making your reservation.