Photographed on April 18, 2014. This is Resona Koedo Terrace and Yae Cherry Blossom.

Would you like to enjoy a walk where you can experience Saijō’s unique spring water culture, known as "Uchinuki," during a peaceful season? We recommend a 2.4 km walking course along the Aquatopia water system (a waterside-friendly area), stretching from Kanon Water to the Saijō Domain Jinya Ruins. From mid-April to early May, you can enjoy beautiful seasonal scenery: wisteria blossoms at Teishō-ji Temple (Kannon Hall) near the starting point, and vibrant azaleas in the moat-side area at the endpoint, creating a beautiful harmony of flowing water and seasonal flowers. Along the way, you will find many attractive stops, including Uchinuki spring water tasting spots, cafés, sweet shops, and local farmers’ markets—perfect for a relaxing and leisurely experience. In the historic moat-side area around the Ōtemon Gate from the Edo period, a beautiful streetscape unfolds where waterside scenery blends with outstanding examples of modernist architecture, such as the local museum, folk craft museum, and a church. This unique landscape showcases the harmony of history, architecture, and pure spring water—an essential part of Saijō’s charm. At the Saijō Tourist Information Center (open year-round, 9:00–18:00), visitors can obtain a Water Walking Map and information about bicycle rentals. It is recommended as a starting point for your exploration. Spot Information Teishō-ji Temple (Kannon Hall) 47 Kitagawa, Saijō, Ehime 793-0042, Japan Saijō Domain Jinya Ruins 234 Akeyashiki, Saijō, Ehime 793-0023, Japan Saijō Tourist Information Center 798-1 Ōmachi, Saijō, Ehime 793-0030, Japan Image List Image 1: Kanon Water Images 2–3: Wisteria at Teishō-ji Temple Images 4–7: Along the Aquatopia walking course Image 8: Ōtemon Gate Images 9–10: Folk Craft Museum / Local History Museum Images 11–12: Church Images 13–15: Area around the Jinya Ruins.

Introduction of Menuki from Wakeido Title: Nihiki Shirauo zu Menuki Signature: Kibatamei Masa Kage Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Hozon Tousougu Dimensions: Left: Height 52mm, Width 14mm Right: Height 51.5mm, Width 14mm Period: Last of Edo School: Toryusai School Explanation The Toryusai School was founded by Tanaka Kiyotoshi, who was born in the first year of the Bunka era and is known to have been related to Haruaki Hōgen. The Toryusai style, characterized by its cleverness, was completed by Kiyotoshi, who trained many disciples, including Jurō, Jumatsu, and Masakage. Masakage was one of them, known for his high skill, and this Menuki is finely crafted with great attention to detail.

Introducing Kozuka from Wakedo Title: Mouko zu Kozuka Signature: Katsuryuken (Iwama Masayoshi) Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Hozon Tousougu Size: Length 97.5mm, Width 15mm Period: Late of Edo (AD1764 to 1837) School: Iwama school Description Iwami Masayoshi is the founder of the Iwama school. He was a disciple of Hamano Naosuke and was allowed to use the character 'Nao' at the age of twenty, taking the name Naoyasu. After training at the main house, he signed as Katsuryuken Masayoshi, and in his later years, he adopted the name Juboku in pursuit of the ideal techniques of Riju and Mizume Masazui. He excelled in high carving in the Seizui style, and his skills were praised as exceptional. This work is a kozuka depicting a fierce tiger, notable for its interesting composition. The tiger looks up at the sky with a vivid expression, and the high relief technique used in the background creates a three-dimensional representation of the fierce tiger, which is impressive.

If you're looking for fresh and affordable seafood in Takamatsu, "Jakoya" is definitely the top choice. Although it’s tucked away inside "Michi-no-Eki Genpei-no-Sato Mure," just follow the line of people, and you won't miss it. The dining experience here is very casual; you simply choose your favorite dishes from the buffet. On that day, I selected braised stone bass caught in the Seto Inland Sea and a fried fish head as big as a basin. The sweet and salty flavor of the braised fish perfectly highlighted the freshness of the fish meat, while the fried fish head was crispy and rich in collagen, making every bite incredibly satisfying. Paired with a comforting bowl of squid rice and a bowl of miso soup, it was the most authentic local taste. What impressed me most was the incredible value for money. I ordered a variety of main dishes and side dishes without spending much, making it a high CP value meal. After the meal, I bought some local specialties at the nearby souvenir shop and took a stroll at "Fusazaki Park" to help digest. The sea breeze combined with the feeling of happiness in my stomach truly embodies what travel should be like.

Introduction of Fuchikashira from Wakeido Title: Botan Shishi Zu Fuchikashira Signature: Hidenaga (kao) Certification: N.B.T.H.K. Hozon Tousougu Dimensions: Fuchi: Height 38mm, Width 22.5mm, Ko height 13.4mm Head: Height 33.8mm, Width 13mm Period: Middle Edo Period School: Omori School Description The Omori School is a prestigious lineage alongside the Ishiguro and Yanagawa schools within the Yokoya School, founded by Hidechou, who trained under Yokoya Somin, and later flourished under the second generation, Hidenaga. Hidenaga Omori, the eldest son of Hidehisa Omori, initially took the name Hanjii, later adopting the name Shirobei, and eventually became known as Hidenaga. He passed away before his father, leading his younger brother, Hidemitsu, to inherit the family estate. This resulted in a limited number of his works. This piece exemplifies the high skill of the Omori School, featuring a high-relief color painting of a peony lion on a red copper ground in the Yokoya style.

Introduction of Kozuka from Wakeido Title: Plum Tree and Small Bird Design Kozuka Signature: Okina Toshiyoshi sei Certification: N.B.T.H.K. Hozon Tousougu Size: Length 97.5mm Width 14.5mm Period: Last of Edo School: Tōryūsai school Description The Tōryūsai school traces its origins to Tanaka Kiyotoshi. Kiyotoshi was born in Aizu in the first year of the Bunka era and is said to have trained under the Aizu Masamune school in his youth. He honed his skills under the guidance of Kōno Shunmei Hōgen during his visit to the Tōhoku region, completing a clever style known as the Tōryūsai school. Many skilled disciples followed, including Toshiyoshi, who trained numerous students. Toshiyoshi was Kiyotoshi's foremost disciple and a refined successor of the Tōryūsai school. With high-level techniques, he popularized the Tōryūsai style during the late Edo period. This piece features a small bird and plum blossoms in a four-part design, with the trunk and branches of the plum tree having thick areas in high relief while becoming flat towards the end to create a sense of three-dimensionality. It embodies the essence of Tōryūsai and is quite charming.

Hello everyone watching the Cool Japan video! This is the Takinoue, Okhotsk Tourism Association from Hokkaido. In our first post for the Cool Japan video, we will provide you with all the tourist information about Takinoue Town in Hokkaido. You will discover Japan's largest Shibazakura Takinoue Park, the beautiful Kinsenkyo Gorge with its many waterfalls, and the region that produces the highest amount of domestic Japanese mint. By the time you finish reading, you will surely feel, "I want to visit Takinoue!" Please enjoy until the end! ■What kind of town is Takinoue, Hokkaido? An essential aspect of discussing the attractions of Takinoue Town is its nickname, "Kaori no Sato" (Fragrant Village). The sweet scent of Shibazakura flowers, the refreshing aroma of Japanese mint, which boasts a significant portion of domestic production, and the fragrance of timber from the forestry industry gently envelop the entire town with the changing seasons. All of Takinoue's tourist spots are places where nature and human activities deeply intertwine, making it a perfect destination for those who want to enjoy travel with all five senses. ■How to access Takinoue, Hokkaido? The Doto Expressway and the Asahikawa-Monbetsu Expressway extend to Takinoue Town, located midway between Asahikawa City and Monbetsu City, making it possible to take an express intercity bus from Sapporo in just 3 hours and 30 minutes, allowing for day trips. For visitors coming from outside Hokkaido, it is convenient to use Okhotsk Monbetsu Airport, which is about 50 minutes away by car, or Asahikawa Airport and Memanbetsu Airport within a 2-3 hour range. There are no JR stations within the town, but express intercity buses operate from Sapporo and Asahikawa. Please stop by as a transit point for sightseeing in Asahikawa and Okhotsk. ■Basic information about Takinoue, Hokkaido Takinoue Town is located in the northern part of Hokkaido, with a total population of about 2,128 as of the end of March 2026. The town is surrounded by mountains on three sides, except for the east, with Mt. Teshio (1,558m) and Mt. Kitami Fuji (1,306m) towering above, while the clear Shokotsu River runs through the town. It is particularly gaining attention from travelers who want to experience the great outdoors, making it a prime area for driving trips and nature tourism. ■Recommended tourist spots in Takinoue, Hokkaido 【Shibazakura Takinoue Park】Japan's largest pink carpet The symbol of Takinoue Town is Shibazakura Takinoue Park. The approximately 100,000 square meters (about 2.14 times the size of Tokyo Dome) of Shibazakura flowers spread across a small hill in the city center, creating a pink and purple carpet that captivates visitors from early May to the end of May. Starting from just a box full of seedlings over 60 years ago, the Shibazakura has grown into one of Japan's largest colonies. On sunny days, you can stroll through the sweet fragrance while enjoying views of the Daisetsuzan mountain range and the Kitami Mountains. The entrance fee is 500 yen for adults during the Shibazakura blooming period. 【Kinsenkyo Gorge】A stunning valley of waterfalls and clear streams The approximately 4.2 km long gorge, dotted with various famous waterfalls such as Rakuyō Falls, Kōryū Falls, and the Couples Falls, is truly breathtaking. The walking path in Kinsenkyo Gorge is paved with wood chips, making it easy on the feet, and from spring to autumn, you can enjoy forest bathing while observing rare alpine plants and many wild birds. Especially during the autumn foliage season in Kinsenkyo (from early to late October), you can enjoy the magnificent waterfalls competing with the fiery autumn leaves, and walking events with guides are very popular. 【Herb Garden】Experience the "Fragrant Village" with all five senses The Herb Garden (Kaori no Sato Herb Garden) is a symbol of Takinoue, known as "Kaori no Sato." From June to September, a vast 4-hectare garden with about 300 types of herbs blooms, allowing for a five-sensory experience of seeing, hearing, touching, smelling, and tasting. At the Fragrance House on the hill, you can also enjoy light meals and experiences using the herbs harvested from the garden. It is a must-visit spot for summer tourism in Takinoue, where you can fully experience the refreshing aroma unique to one of Japan's leading Japanese mint production areas. 【Ukishima Wetland】A high moorland in a hidden paradise Nature lovers should definitely visit Ukishima Wetland. This high moorland at an elevation of 850 meters is dotted with various ponds of all sizes, and the "floating islands" created by the roots of wetland grasses create a rare landscape. Diverse alpine plants such as Ezo Isotsutsuji, Chinguruma, and Mōsengoke grow naturally, and Ezo salamanders and many wild birds also visit. You can enjoy the original nature of Hokkaido on a round trip hike of about 2.5 hours, making it a special hidden spot with only great nature and tranquility. Nature guides who walk with local guides are also popular. 【Yokushokuen】A garden registered as a northern landscape heritage. An original garden created by a single person as if painting on the earth. From the end of April to October, a unique landscape unfolds, changing its expression with the seasons as plants thrive. ■What are the recommended gourmet foods and specialties of Takinoue, Hokkaido? 【Japanese Mint (Domestic Japanese Mint Oil)】 A specialty product that Takinoue Town proudly offers, responsible for most of Japan's domestic mint production. It can be widely used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food, and is available for purchase at the roadside station "Kaori no Sato Takinoue" and others. 【Shibazakura Soft Serve Ice Cream】 A classic Takinoue gourmet sold within Shibazakura Takinoue Park during the Shibazakura Festival, featuring a pale pink color that catches the eye. The scent of Shibazakura and its gentle sweetness are popular, making it perfect for social media. ■When are the events and festivals in Takinoue, Hokkaido held? 【Fairytale Village Takinoue Shibazakura Festival】(May) The largest event of the year is held every year from early May to the end of May at Shibazakura Takinoue Park. On weekends, you can enjoy the "Phlox Marche" (food and market, workshops, mini live performances), and the "Shibazakura SKY Cruise" viewed from a helicopter is also very popular every year. 【Fairytale Village Takinoue Hometown Festival】(August) An event packed with activities such as log cutting championships, bon odori dances, fireworks festivals, gorge walks, and a grand lottery, allowing you to fully enjoy the local summer. 【Kinsenkyo Autumn Leaves Walking Event】(October) A seasonal tradition that concludes the autumn in Takinoue. Held in mid-October, you can enjoy the magnificent waterfalls and fiery autumn leaves while walking the Kinsenkyo walking path with experienced guides. The gorge, about 4.2 km long, is dotted with various famous waterfalls such as Rakuyō Falls and Kōryū Falls. The walking path is paved with wood chips, and you can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the seasons, from the fresh greenery of spring to the autumn foliage. ■We look forward to welcoming you to "Kaori no Sato" Takinoue Town! Japan's largest "Shibazakura Takinoue Park," the beautiful Kinsenkyo Gorge, the "Herb Garden" filled with the fragrance of 300 types of herbs, and the mystical "Ukishima Wetland." Please enjoy the unique experiences that can only be had in Takinoue Town, surrounded by the great outdoors of Hokkaido! We will continue to provide the latest information about Takinoue through the Cool Japan video, so thank you for your continued support! Official website of Takinoue, Okhotsk Tourism Association https://takinoue.com...

【New Product Announcement】 A new cider has been released from "Blank Hard Cider Works," which produces cider (apple alcoholic beverage) in Ashorocho. Product Name: Blank Hard Cider 00 Nectar Price: ¥1,100 (tax included) Features: Made with "Fuji" apples from Nagano Prefecture and wine yeast. This cider is characterized by its rich sweetness reminiscent of thick apple nectar, achieved by adding apple juice during fermentation. With a lower alcohol content (5%) than other flavored ciders, it is recommended for those who have never tried cider before. Available at the Roadside Station Ashoro Galaxy Hall 21 shop, so be sure to check it out when you stop by!

Taken on April 15, 2014. This is the Yae Cherry Blossom at Resona Koedo Terrace and the Kurazukuri townscape.

【The Beloved Chinese Cuisine in Miyoshi!】 A popular spot where you can casually enjoy authentic Chinese food 🍴 Introducing "Machikado Chuka Baihou" located in Tokaichi, Miyoshi City. The dishes served during lunch time include familiar favorites like "Mapo Tofu," "Dan Dan Noodles," "Five-Flavor Fried Rice," and "Dumplings" 😊 With simple seasoning that appeals to Japanese tastes, the care taken in preparation is evident, and the unpretentious deliciousness is the reason for its popularity 😋 Baihou is not just an ordinary "town Chinese restaurant." For dinner, you can fully enjoy authentic Chinese courses such as Peking Duck and Shark Fin Soup, as well as a variety of a la carte dishes featuring seafood and meat. Customers range from families with children to the elderly. Many people come here saying, "You can enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine in Miyoshi." Even during our visit, there were continuous orders for appetizers and reservation calls coming in✨ The owner, Mr. Sasaki, is from Miyoshi City. He was inspired to pursue this path after encountering truly delicious Chinese food while working part-time. "I want many people in Miyoshi to enjoy delicious Chinese cuisine." With that thought in mind, he returned to Miyoshi and opened the restaurant. "Machikado Chuka Baihou," loved by many repeat customers, is a place you should definitely visit 😊 ＼Introducing seasonal dishes and recommended menu items／ Check out the restaurant's Instagram @bai_feng53163✨ 【Machikado Chuka Baihou】 ■Address: 3-15-52 Tokaichi, Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture ■Business Days: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday *For other temporary closures, please check @bai_feng53163. ■Hours Lunch: 11:30 AM – (L.O. 2:00 PM) Dinner: 5:00 PM – (L.O. 9:00 PM) Close at 10:00 PM ■🅿 7 parking spaces next to the restaurant ■Phone: 0824-53-1630 ■Others *Please make reservations by phone. *Private rooms are available. *The dishes and menu items listed are as of the time of posting.

In the gentle spring scenery, a single flower 🌷 standing tall makes me feel somewhat encouraged.

Event Announcement📣 On April 26th (Sunday), the 68th Honbetsu Sanke Tsutsuji Festival will be held again this year😊 At Honbetsu Park, the venue, vibrant Daurian Azaleas and Ezo cherry trees will welcome everyone🌸 Inside the venue, you can enjoy a variety of gourmet foods from local restaurants, live performances by the Hamburger Boys, a bingo tournament, a bouncy land, and a smoke experience, among many other attractions‼️ One of the highlights is the specialty "Jumbo Yoshitsune Hot Pot," a delicious pork soup packed with local ingredients. Be sure to give it a try😍 Come with your family and friends to this spring festival filled with gourmet food and entertainment🤗 📍Date: April 26, 2026 (Sunday) 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM *The event will proceed even in light rain 📍Location: In front of the stage at Yoshitsune no Sato Honbetsu Park (Higashimachi, Honbetsu Town) 【Requests for Attendees】 To ensure everyone enjoys a safe and fun time, we kindly ask for your cooperation with the following points. - Please refrain from bringing pets. - Please take your trash home with you (trash bags are available at the main tent). - Fishing equipment will not be available for rent. Please bring your own to participate. - Driving cars or bicycles after drinking is considered drunk driving, so please refrain from doing so.

Taken on April 12, 26. This is the Yae Cherry Blossom at Naritasan Kawagoe Betsuin. If you look closely, there is a Yae Cherry Blossom in the lower left with 🩷.

On April 12th, the Takeda diamond, signaling the arrival of spring, was clearly visible on Mt. Goryu in Hakuba. Cherry blossoms and snow-capped mountains! And a clear blue sky. I received the best hospitality from Hakuba!

The cherry blossom tree-lined path planted around Tōkōike at the Karako-Kagi Site from the Yayoi period in Nara may not have been seen 2000 years ago, but it offers a landscape that evokes the atmosphere of that time.

Taken on April 18, 26. This is the Sasara Lion Dance of Ishihara.

Ooiwa Slope, Dam Park Oiwa Observation Square Kissa Ooiwa Address reference: 82 Oiwa, Ibaraki City, Osaka Prefecture On a clear day, you can see Kansai International Airport from the observation deck! There is a parking lot for cars, as well as spaces for motorcycles and bicycles. There are covered benches and regular benches available. There are also nice and clean restrooms. Why not stop by while cycling or driving?

Aigawa Dam Aigawa Dam Management Office Seiho-chiuchi, Ibaraki City, Osaka Prefecture Aigawa Dam Management Office from 11:30 AM to 4:30 PM Restroom available at the management office Dam card automatic vending machine in front of the management office, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year Kaze no Oka Zone: 56 parking spaces (including 2 for disabled users) Aigawa Dam Management Office: 9 parking spaces (including 1 for disabled users) Fee: Free After more than thirty years since the project began in 1988, completion is aimed for 2022 Aigawa Dam in March 2021 Aigawa Dam is a rock-fill dam constructed on the Aigawa River, which is part of the Yodo River system. A rock-fill dam is built by piling up rocks and soil, and its appearance and structure are quite different from that of a concrete gravity dam. Aigawa Dam also has the appearance of stones stacked on a slope. According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, the total project cost for the construction of Aigawa Dam is approximately 131.4 billion yen (verification materials), while other sources estimate it at around 135.6 to 153.6 billion yen.

Dam Park Ibarakita 53-1 Oaza Namihoko, Ibaraki City, Osaka Prefecture Parking: 100 yen for regular cars per 30 minutes (maximum 600 yen during the day) Temporary parking: Free Peak crowded periods Golden Week (late April to early May) Summer vacation period (late July to August) Silver Week (mid-September) The middle day of a three-day weekend Weekends and holidays A nature-rich park located around Aigawa Dam in the northern area of Ibaraki City (commonly known as Ibarakita). It features a dog run, facilities for markets and cooking, a park center, event plaza, outdoor stage, and open spaces. At the activity park "GRAVITATE OSAKA," visitors can enjoy views of Aigawa Dam from the pedestrian-only suspension bridge "GODA BRIDGE," which is approximately 420 meters long. Throughout the year, various events are held that allow visitors to enjoy nature, with activities suitable for children. Dam Park Ibarakita regularly hosts food trucks. Bringing your own bento is allowed Vending machines are available on-site. While drinks can be purchased, food sales may be limited, so bringing your own is recommended. Pets are allowed in the park. However, outside the dog run, pets must be on a leash that the owner can control (approximately 2 meters in length). It is prohibited to leave pet waste unattended.

Photographed on April 18, 2014. This is the Sasara Lion Dance from Ishihara. It features the lion and the mountain deity. A performance will take place today as well.

I attended the grand festival at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine and Kakinomoto Shrine. Around Kakinomoto Shrine, you can see Gioiko, a type of double-flowered cherry blossom known as green sakura.

I took a photo under the cherry tree during the last spring break of middle school. The sight of the Japanese Pygmy Woodpecker looking up seemed as if it was enjoying the cherry blossoms, making me feel like it was in a "front-row seat for cherry blossom viewing." I wanted to convey that such gentle creatures are nearby among the Cherry Blossom Tree-lined Path close to my home.

Takase District, Yamagata City, is home to the annual koi nobori (carp streamers) and cherry blossoms. You can encounter a breathtakingly beautiful scene along the roadside.

In front of Tomakomai Station on April 18th. It's cloudy, but the temperature has exceeded 10°C. The buds of the Ezo cherry trees in the city center have unexpectedly started to bloom!

From May 2nd to 5th, the Golden Week Festival will be held at Roadside Station Hotta Elementary School. The main events and workshops are as follows: Special hiking tour on the 2nd (reservation required) Rice planting experience from the 3rd to the 5th (reservation required) Gibier handmade soap workshop on the 2nd (reservation required) Mochi throwing on the 3rd Koi nobori (carp streamer) making from the 2nd to the 5th Paper craft vending machine making on the 5th Organized by Kyonan Mimamori Squad For inquiries and reservations, call 0470-50-1238 (Roadside Station Hotta Elementary School) Please come to Kyonan Town during Golden Week!

Taken on March 15, 2026. This is the matcha basque cheesecake with sakura topping from LEC COFFEE. It has a fragrance of sakura.😊🌸

Taken on March 15, 2014. This is a black latte from LEC COFFEE. What a lovely latte art!

When you come to Kushiro, you absolutely must see the sunset. The view from Kushiro Prince Hotel is not just a sunset; it's an "experience." During this time, when the sky slowly changes color, there is a beauty that cannot be captured in photos. At the end of your trip, enjoy this view. For accommodation and sightseeing, save information about the world's three great sunsets. 👆 ▶ Kushiro Prince Hotel https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/?hl=ja...

On April 17, 2026, the Lake Mashu Safety Prayer Festival was held at Lake Mashu Kamuy Terrace, and at the same time, the drive course connecting Lake Mashu First Observatory and Mt. Io, known as the Mashu Lake Iozan Sky Road, was opened🚙🐾 It seems that flags, as shown in the photos, are also on sale at Lake Mashu Kamuy Terrace🚩 The view from the Mashu Lake Lounge within Lake Mashu Kamuy Terrace is also beautiful✨ Be sure to check it out.