Photographed on May 4, 26. This is the Inariyama satokagura by the Umebachi Association. It is the dance of the bow pulling.

Welcome everyone to read the previous edition of {Okinawa Travel Planning} This edition is {Going Crazy! Japanese Animation and Leisure Items} Do you have any impressions of Pikmin from Japan? Since the release of the Pikmin mobile version, everyone has been eager to play the Pikmin mobile version 1 Gameplay Methods There are actually many ways, and I will introduce a few Cultivating Pikmin (Walking and Pulling Out) Obtaining Flower Buds: While walking, you will automatically collect "flower buds" on the map and place them in the "cultivation slot" in your backpack. Cultivation and Pulling Out: Walk with the flower buds to reach a specific number of steps (for example, \(1000 \sim 10000\) steps), and once the flower buds mature, you can click "Pull Out" to obtain Pikmin. Feeding and Leveling Up: Click the whistle to select Pikmin and feed them fruit essence (essence can be obtained from exploration). Well-fed Pikmin will bloom flowers on their heads, and continuous feeding will increase their friendliness. When the friendliness is full, Pikmin will go out to look for "gifts" on their own and turn into decorative Pikmin. Planting Flowers (Decorating the Map) Starting to Plant Flowers: Click the "Flower" icon in the lower right corner, select petals, and press ▶️ to start. Walking to Plant Flowers: As you move, the path the character walks will bloom flowers, and the petals will deplete over time. Even if you close the app, the flower planting will continue until the petals run out. Collecting Petals: After feeding Pikmin flower essence, click on the flowers blooming on their heads to collect petals. Exploration and Challenges (Obtaining Resources) Exploration: Pikmin will remember the locations of fruits and flower buds along the walking route. Click the "Explore" feature to send Pikmin to retrieve these resources. Mushroom Battles: "Mushrooms" will appear on the map, and you can send nearby Pikmin to "challenge the mushrooms" and destroy them to obtain special nectar and other rewards. Social and Passive Gameplay Community Interaction: You can form teams with friends to participate in "Weekly Challenges" (such as accumulating steps), and even if you are not together, you can achieve the goal together. Passive Following: You don't need to keep staring at the screen; once you set up flower planting, you can put your phone in your pocket and walk. The system will count the background steps without needing to open the app intentionally. Important Notes: Speed Limit: If the speed exceeds \(20\) kilometers per hour (such as driving), the step count and flower planting efficiency will significantly decrease. Location Services: The game requires location services (GPS) to walk on the map. Gameplay Background Background Running for Flower Planting: After starting the "Plant Flowers" mode, you can put your phone in your pocket, and the program will run in the background. Even if the screen is locked or the app is closed, the system will record walking distance and flower planting data. Walking to Hatch Pikmin: Collect flower buds in daily life and accumulate steps by walking to cultivate them into cute Pikmin. Exploration and Mushroom Challenges: Pikmin will remember the locations of fruits and flower buds along the way. Players can send Pikmin to "challenge mushrooms" to obtain essences and limited items. Community and Map Interaction: While walking and planting flowers, a scene of blooming flowers will appear along the way. If you plant flowers together with other players, you can also share the flower map on the map. Daily Life Habits: The game is designed to make walking fun and is suitable for commuting to work or shopping daily. Does everyone understand this? Data provided by Google AI.

The port stretches out beyond the window. With that view in sight, the morning begins slowly. A cup made with your favorite ingredients is simple yet satisfying. Please experience a moment of relaxation at the Kushiro Prince Hotel. ▶ Kushiro Prince Hotel https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/...

Event Announcement📣 On May 16th (Saturday), the "Sumomo no Sato Matsuri 2026" will be held in Sarabetsumura😊 This event allows you to enjoy cherry blossom viewing and local gourmet food in the "Sumomo no Sato," where about 1,000 plum blossoms will be in full bloom🎵 At the venue, there will also be a "Nodate" (outdoor tea ceremony) by the tea ceremony club and a "Yoga Experience." Additionally, as a special gift for attendees, the first 500 people who respond to the survey will receive a bag of "Donguri Mura Potato Chips"‼ Furthermore, a photo contest will be held simultaneously! Please post your photos of plum blossoms taken at Sumomo no Sato on Instagram with the hashtag "#SarabetsumuraSumomoNoSatoMatsuri2026" and tag the Sarabetsumura Tourism Association (sarabetsumura_kankou)! Prizes will be awarded for outstanding works, so be sure to participate🤗 Date and Time: May 16, 2026 (Saturday) 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM *The event will be held rain or shine Location: Inside Donguri Park, Sarabetsu Sumomo no Sato https://www.sarabetsu.jp/sightseeing/event/sumomo/...

This is a photo of swans at Lake Yamanaka in Yamanakakomura, Yamanashi Prefecture. It was a wonderful time, watched over by Red Fuji during sunset.

Manda Pit has a grandeur that cannot be fully conveyed through photographs alone. When standing on-site, the size of the steel structures, the weight of the brick buildings, and the tranquility of the expansive grounds come together, allowing one to imagine the era when the coal mine supported the region and Japan's industry. It is highly recommended for those who wish to delve deeply into history or have an interest in architecture and industrial heritage. When visiting Arao City, be sure to include it in your itinerary. Visiting Information: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: Adults and university students 410 yen, high school students 310 yen, elementary and middle school students 210 yen / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Historical travel #Historical walks #Industrial heritage #Coal mine ruins #Miike Coal Mine #World Heritage tours #Brick architecture #Japan's modernization #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #KumamotoTravel #TravelJapan #VisitJapan #JapaneseHistory #IndustrialHeritage #WorldHeritage

Taken on May 4, 26. This is the Satokagura performance 'Inariyama' by the Umebachikai. Tenko is dancing.

Good morning! 🌞 This is the view from the 16th floor of the only city hotel in Tomakomai, the "Grand Hotel New Oji," featuring the "Sky Restaurant Grand View." You can see Tomakomai Port in the distance! 🚢 During lunchtime, we offer a buffet or à la carte menu, and for dinner, you can enjoy a course or à la carte while taking in the night view of this city of 160,000. Please enjoy a wonderful time with your loved ones! 🍴

On May 5th (Tuesday), we held the "Rekifune River Clear Stream Carp Streamers Children's Day Mini Event"! The weather was favorable, and the event was a great success. Thank you to everyone who attended! Additionally, the installation of the carp streamers along the Rekifune River has concluded as of May 6th. We look forward to next year's event!

Matsuo Taisha 3 Arashiyama Miyamachi, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture Matsuo-taisha Station [West Exit] is a 3-minute walk Matsuo Taisha has a parking lot for visitors located on the south side of the premises, which can accommodate around 100 regular cars, and visitors can park for free for a limited time (approximately 1 hour), after which parking becomes paid. Matsuo Taisha is a shrine established in the first year of the Taiho era (701) and is famous as the god of sake brewing. Upon entering the premises, visitors are drawn to the mountain-like stacks of sake barrels, which have been donated by sake producers from various regions. There is a legend that sake brewed with the spring water known as Kame no I will not spoil.

Wisteria Rain It's an umbrella, you know ( ´艸｀) Location: Yamaguchi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture

Photographed on May 4, 2026. This is the satokagura (a type of traditional Japanese folk performance) "Inariyama" by the Umebachi Association. The attendant is deep in thought.

Myotokuzan Kegonji Temple (Myotokuzan Kegonji) Commonly known as Suzumushidera Temple (Suzumushidera) 31 Matsumurojike-chou, Nishikyō Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture The visiting hours are generally from 9 AM to 5 PM, with entry until 4:30 PM Open year-round The reason it's called Suzumushidera The temple houses thousands of bell crickets throughout the year, and visitors can listen to the sound of the crickets while attending a sermon called "Suzumushi Seppō" in the main hall, which is why it is affectionately called "Suzumushidera." What is the secret of the "bell crickets that chirp all year round"? Approximately 3,000 crickets are raised. The "Happiness Jizō" wearing straw sandals is famous. It is the only Jizō in Japan that wears straw sandals, and there is a legend that it "walks to grant wishes." As for how to pray, it is widely known that after listening to the priest's sermon, one should strongly wish for a single desire in their heart. There are stories that any wish will be granted, and many testimonials say, "I came back because my last wish was granted."

Swaying in the wind, my own special seat. A small hill enveloped by pampas grass, offering a panoramic view of Hatoyamamachi in Saitama Prefecture. This place, away from the hustle and bustle of tourist spots, flows with quiet moments and gentle breezes. It's a hidden gem, still unknown to many, where you can unwind and relax.

Start your day with a feast in the port town.☀️ Enjoy a breakfast buffet at the top-floor restaurant "Top of Kushiro," overlooking Kushiro City and the Pacific Ocean. Savor the popular "Seafood Bowl," Nemuro Strait Kombu Soy Sauce Ramen, and a variety of Japanese and Western dishes made with Hokkaido ingredients. It's a special morning experience to savor both the view and breakfast in Kushiro. Reservations can be made through the profile URL. ▶Kushiro Prince Hotel https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/...

【Shibazakura Takinoue Park Information on May 10】Good morning! This is the Takinoue Town Tourism Association. Today, we had planned to guide you to a temporary parking lot, but we have decided to open the parking lot within the park, so please come directly to the parking lot inside the park! The forecast for Takinoue Town today is a high of 19°C, which is much warmer than yesterday. The park can be quite windy and chilly, so having a light jacket would be convenient. The blooming status is about 60% overall, with some areas at 70%. Today, May 10 (Sunday), from 14:00, a photo seminar titled "Color Expression of Shibazakura" will be held by a professional photographer. Participation is free, but there is an admission fee. On May 16 (Saturday) at 10:30, Hokkaido's tourism PR character "Kyun-chan" will make an appearance! After that, from 11:00, the Shibazakura Spring Live will also take place! Look forward to next week too! ------------------------ 8:00 – 18:00 (Last admission at 17:00) Admission Fee Adults (high school students and above): 500 yen, Groups of 10 or more: 400 yen Children (elementary and junior high school students): 250 yen, Groups of 10 or more: 200 yen #Hokkaido #Okhotsk #Takinoue Town #Shibazakura #Shibazakura Takinoue Park #Photo Seminar #Nikon #Hisao Asano

【Shibazakura Takinoue Park Information on May 9】Good morning! This is the Takinoue Town Tourism Association. Today, we had planned to guide you to the temporary parking lot, but we have decided to open the parking area within the park, so please come directly to the park's parking lot! The maximum temperature in Takinoue Town today is 5℃, and there is a forecast of snow mixed in from the afternoon. Please check the road conditions and be careful⚠️. It’s chilly, so we recommend dressing warmly. The blooming status is overall 60% and some areas are at 70%. On May 9 (Saturday) from 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, a birdwatching event will be held by the local nature guide "Poussin"! Each session is limited to 20 participants, and participation is free. *Entry fees apply. Participants should gather at the information center located in the parking lot. On May 10 (Sunday), a photo seminar titled "Color Expression of Shibazakura" will be conducted by a professional photographer. For those who do not have equipment, Nikon will lend out professional gear, so feel free to join. Children, including elementary and middle school students, are also welcome to participate. Families are encouraged to join together! We look forward to seeing everyone. *Participation is free, but entry fees apply. ------------------------ 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Last entry at 5:00 PM) Entry Fees 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 #Shibazakura #Shibazakura Takinoue Park #Photo Seminar #Nikon

Photographed on May 4, 26. This is "Inariyama" performed by the Umebachi Association's Satokagura. Inari Okami is dancing.

This is the Mitsumata Colony in Mushiidani, Akitakata City. The entire valley is covered with Mitsumata, making it feel as if surrounded by a swarm of fireflies.

Today, Chahaku-chan came to play again. He is a boy. 🐈

A hotel to stay in for memories. The aroma of Napolitan and the color of Cream Soda are somehow nostalgic. When you come here, it feels like time flows a little slower. Would you like to enjoy the atmosphere of Showa? 【Until Saturday, October 31, 2026】 Reservations can be made from the URL in the profile. ▶Kushiro Prince Hotel https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/...

Taken on May 8, 26. This is the Flower Festival at Saiunji Temple. The Flower Festival is held on April 8, but it seems that in Kawagoe, it is celebrated according to the lunar calendar. We pour sweet tea to celebrate the birthday of Buddha.

🌸Kushiro cherry blossoms are blooming!🌸 The cherry blossom front is moving across the Japanese Archipelago. The cherry blossoms in Michihigashi Kushiro were observed to bloom on May 3rd! The Ezo cherry trees are characterized by their deep pink color. They look cute yet somehow strong, leaving a powerful impression. After the Ezo cherry trees, the Kushiro Yae will follow! The layers of overlapping petals create a stunning sight. We'll post again once they bloom, so stay tuned! 😊

On Friday, May 8th, the cruise ship "Seven Seas Explorer" docked here. 🚢 In the morning, passengers disembarked for a bus tour. 🚌 They toured various attractions in Kushiro City and returned by noon to enjoy local product stalls set up on the earthquake-resistant quay. The farewell event featured Ainu dance by Chaz. Despite the cloudy sky and chilly weather, the passengers stepped out onto the balcony to thoroughly enjoy the performance. And in the end, there was a big round of applause. 👏 When the sound of the ship's horn blew, it evoked a bittersweet feeling, making one want to chase after it. 😢 Thank you for coming to Kushiro! With that sentiment, we waved goodbye enthusiastically. 👋 Bon voyage!

🚢 Notice of Cruise Ship Port Call Cancellation 🚢 The cruise ship "Riviera," which was scheduled to dock on May 11th (Monday), has been canceled due to strong winds. We regret to inform you of this.😢

May Event Calendar In the future, we plan to publish a monthly event calendar. We will include not only events organized by the tourism association but also local events, so we appreciate any information you can provide. May 24 (Sunday) 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM The 〇〇 Marche will be held at Akan Lakeside Campground. This time, the theme is "Fairytale Marche." The aroma of freshly baked bread, sweet treats that make you smile, books that gently flow as you turn the pages, and the calming scent of herbs—why not go in search of such a warm, comforting time? May 26 (Tuesday) Akan Forest Night Walk "KAMUY LUMINA" opens! Follow the 1.2 km nature trail through the lakeside forest of Akan-Mashu National Park, holding a rhythm stick as mysterious events occur at various spots, advancing through stories passed down by the Ainu. This special event within a national park is the first of its kind in the Lumina series. Step into a fantastical world woven with digital art of light and sound, harmonizing with nature.

\The highlight event of the Black Ship Festival is back this year!\ 📍【Reenactment "Signing of the Japan-U.S. Shimoda Treaty"】 Set in the late Edo period in Shimoda, this performance comically reenacts the actual signing of the "Japan-U.S. Shimoda Treaty"! The actors, embodying historical figures, deliver a captivating performance full of realism✨ There are moments that will make you chuckle…!😆 Even those not well-versed in history or children will enjoy it. May 16 (Saturday) 12:40 PM – Ryōsen-ji May 17 (Sunday) 12:30 PM – Shimoda Civic Cultural Hall Parking Lot Experience the unique history of the Black Ship Festival at this event; be sure to check it out at the venue!👀⚓

Have you heard of the Akan Lake First-Year Program? At Lake Akan Onsen, there is a program designed for those visiting for the first time to help them get to know the area and live comfortably. This is the "Akan Lake First-Year Program." Participants can enjoy a stamp rally while interacting with locals, receive special bathing tickets, and gather useful information for living in Lake Akan Onsen. This program has even been recognized by the Immigration Bureau for its local roots. Last year, 90 people became first-year participants. How many first-year participants will we gather this year?

The only exclave in Japan, Kitayamamura in Wakayama Prefecture, has started its tourist rafting. Why not come and experience the thrilling river descent in nature?

More than five Ezo cherry trees have bloomed next to the Marimukan by Lake Akanko!! I’m declaring the blooming on my own🌸