Photographed on August 16, 2014. This is the flower water at Naritasan Kawagoe Betsuin.

I had ramune and watermelon at a park in Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture. I never thought I would be able to spend my youth with my high school classmates at almost 30!

When you open the door, a tranquil moment gently welcomes you. Beyond the curtains lies Lake Kussharo. With your favorite drink in hand, simply gaze at the scenery. No need to worry about the time. It's perfectly fine to have a day like that. Welcome to a time just for you and the lake. Indulge in the luxury of doing nothing at Kussharo Prince Hotel. Be sure to follow us for the latest updates from 📍Kussharo Prince Hotel🌿 https://www.instagram.com/kussharo_ph/...

If you're looking for lunch in Kushiro🍴✨, head to "Kushiro Prince Hotel Top of Kushiro." Enjoy a leisurely hotel lunch while taking in the views from the top floor of the hotel. We offer a variety of lunch options, from limited-time menus to classic favorites, so you can choose according to your mood. Be sure to save this for your next lunch outing and feel free to stop by! *Please note that the menu may change depending on the circumstances. 📍Kushiro Prince Hotel 17F "Top of Kushiro" Check the link in our profile for the latest information!✨ https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/...

As of August 23rd, the six beaches in Shimoda City have concluded their opening period for swimming. For a safe beach experience, it is recommended to visit the swimming areas that are open during the designated period, where lifeguards and monitors are present🏖️✨ In Shimoda City, Shirahama Chuo will remain open until Sunday, August 30th, while Shirahama Ohama and Kyūjūhama will be open until Monday, August 31st🌺! At the end of the blog, we have summarized the facility information for the beaches that have concluded their opening period! *This information is accurate as of August 24, 2026. Please note that the content may change in the future.* https://www.shimoda-city.info/post/20260824...

On August 23rd, Azumino experienced a stunning sunrise 😆 Waking up early was truly rewarding.

★Tsurumaru & Yūhippī ESCON Debut★ On August 19th, during the Fighters vs. Hawks game at ESCON, Yūhippī and Tsurumaru will join JR Hokkaido to promote tourism in Kushiro. We cheered for the Fighters with all our might!❣️❣️

Opening the book "A History of Cats in Japan," one discovers that the bond between cats and the Japanese people is deeper than one might imagine. Cats have appeared in literature such as "The Tale of Genji" since the Heian Period, even enjoying the favor of emperors. During the Warring States period, cats also became companions of military leaders. As we entered the Edo Period, cats appeared more frequently in ukiyo-e, literature, and the lives of common people. Reading through the pages, one can see how cats transitioned from being precious pets to an indispensable part of Japanese culture. In modern times, this "cat-loving culture" has developed new forms, the most interesting of which is the cat café. Japan's first cat café, "Neko no Jikan," opened in Osaka in 2004 and quickly gained popularity across the country. For those living in apartments who cannot keep pets, cat cafés provide a space to get close to cats. Sipping coffee while watching cats sleep, stretch, or stroll by creates a leisurely atmosphere that naturally encourages one to slow down. From ancient courts to Edo-period ukiyo-e, and now to today's cat cafés, the Japanese people's affection for cats spans over a thousand years. Times may change, but the place of cats in people's lives has never disappeared; rather, it continues in different forms to this day. Perhaps, this is what makes Japanese cat culture so enchanting.

📺📢 【Announcement of Appearance on STV Dosanko Wide 179】 On Monday, August 24, 2026, staff from the Lake Mashu Tourism Association will appear on "Dosanko Wide 179" to promote Teshikagacho for one minute. The broadcast is scheduled for 16:42 on 8/24 (Monday) 🐴❣️ We will introduce various aspects of Teshikagacho, including the JA Mashu Lake Festival, so please be sure to tune in 👀✨ We look forward to it!

Taken on August 22, 2026. This is the flower water basin at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

Taken on August 22, 2026. This is the flower water offered at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

Starting from September 1st, the Kyonan Town Tourism Association is participating in the JR Thank You Chiba Free Pass. This free pass offers unlimited rides in the free area within Chiba Prefecture for two days, making it a very cost-effective ticket. 🎫 Those who present this free pass will receive free bicycle rentals 🚲 from the tourist information centers located at Hota Station and Awakatsuyama Station. It's a great opportunity to discover hidden gems in Chiba Prefecture. We encourage everyone to take advantage of it!

Gentazakura This is an Edohigan cherry tree estimated to be 300 years old, located on a mountain path known as "Sakura Sanri." There are two trees with diameters of 2.88m and 2.15m. They are designated as a natural monument by the city. The origin of the name "Gentazakura" comes from a story about Matsuyama han-shi Yano Goroemon Genta, who made prisoners plant cherry trees along the Nakayama River road. Unable to endure the harsh labor, one prisoner lamented, "Though the cherry blossoms bloom, it is Genta who punishes, and they will bear no fruit," which inspired the name. On Sundays in late March or early April, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the "Gentazakura Festival" is held, bustling with events like bazaars and rice cake throwing, attracting many tourists who come to catch a glimpse of the grand Edohigan cherry tree.

Taken on August 22, 2026. This is the flower water basin at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

At the Roadside Station Yachiho Kogen's Bloomin, there are plenty of apples on display✨ The red, ripe apples are lined up in the store👀🍎 As the season progresses, it's exciting to see various fruits appearing on the shelves! When you stop by, be sure to take a look♩

At Roadside Station Yachiho Kogen's Bloomin, you can find a wide variety of plums on display! 👏🏻👏🏻 A plum harvest calendar is also posted at the store, which can help you choose the right variety.✨ Enjoy the plums that are unique to this season!

Taken on August 22, 2026. This is the yo-yo omikuji at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

August 22nd was the Tanabata Festival at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

The 4th National Stream Fishing Tournament Under the scorching summer sun, the "National Stream Fishing Tournament" was held 🎣 This time, an impressive total of 242 participants, both adults and children, joined in 💡 While there were many fishing enthusiasts, a lot of children came to participate in the fish-catching event ✨ Watching the children chase after the escaping fish with beaming smiles made me feel the essence of summer in Gokase 😁

Photographed on July 15, 26. This is the homemade plum soda from cafe andon, along with a shortcake made with American cherry and orange. The shortcake made with American cherry and orange is no longer available.

Taken on July 15, 2026. This is the American cherry and orange shortcake from cafe andon. It is no longer available.

This year, the morning glories in our garden are in full bloom. Bees are coming to sip the nectar.

The Heart and Healing Marche On Saturday, September 19, 2026, the "Heart and Healing Marche" will be held at EZO HOUSE in Kawayu Onsen from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM. You can enjoy delicious okonomiyaki while also experiencing healing activities such as fortune telling and oil massages. We invite everyone to come together and enjoy a healing time!✨ Heart and Healing Marche - Overview Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 10:30 AM - 3:30 PM Location: Kawayu Onsen EZO HOUSE

⚠️ 【Important】Notice of Suspension of EV Charging Station Use at Mashu Onsen Roadside Station from August 21 ___ 📢Notice of Resumption and Start of Use📢 As of August 21, 2026, 1:00 PM The service has already resumed and is now available for use. Thank you for your cooperation. ___ The EV charging station at Mashu Onsen Roadside Station is currently unavailable due to lightning damage. As a result of lightning during heavy rain on August 20, 2026, the charging equipment is out of service. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and trouble caused to those who were planning to use the station. We will provide further updates as soon as we have a clearer outlook for restoration. For those using EV charging stations in Teshikagacho, please refer to Teshikaga Navi.

Did you know that hotel lunches can actually be enjoyed casually?✨ At "Top of Kushiro," we offer lunch options that you can savor along with the view, tailored to your mood.🍴 If you find a menu item that piques your interest, please feel free to come by.😊 *Please note that the menu may change depending on circumstances. 📍Kushiro Prince Hotel, 17F "Top of Kushiro" Check the latest information from the link in our profile!✨ https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/...

What awaits beyond the door is a tranquil view overlooking Lake Kussharo. Welcome to a time just for you and the lake. Step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and let yourself embrace the slow flow of time. This summer, indulge in the luxury of doing nothing at the Kussharo Prince Hotel. Be sure to follow us for the latest updates from 📍Kussharo Prince Hotel 🌿 https://www.instagram.com/kussharo_ph/...

[Important] Suspension of JR trains due to heavy rain on August 20th Today, due to the impact of heavy rain, there are partial and complete suspensions of JR trains operating towards Abashiri. Those planning to use the service are advised to check the latest operation information or Teshikaga Navi.

🌸Okhotsk Flower Tour Campaign at Aeon Mall Asahikawa West🌸 The charm of flowers and tourism from Okhotsk gathers in Asahikawa! The "Okhotsk Flower Tour" created by Mombetsu City, Engaru Town, Yubetsu Town, and Takinoue Town will be visiting Aeon Mall Asahikawa West✨ 📅 August 22nd (Saturday) 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM 📍 Aeon Mall Asahikawa West 1F Green Court 🌟Recommended Highlights🌟 🐻 Local characters will gather! 🔍 Find the "password" with the characters and get an original flower tour badge! 🍬 Follow us on social media to receive a special design of Hi-Chew candy for the first 100 people! 🪨 Join us for making obsidian keychains! (Fee 300 yen) 🛍️ There will also be sales of specialty products from the four cities and towns! Additionally, we will introduce recommended sightseeing spots and autumn events in each region🍁 This autumn, why not visit Okhotsk? First, please find "Okhotsk" at Aeon Mall Asahikawa West on August 22nd😊 #Okhotsk Flower Tour #Takinoue Town Tourism Association #Aeon Mall Asahikawa West #Okhotsk Tourism #Tourism Campaign

The Heart and Healing Marche will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM at EZO HOUSE in Kawayu Onsen. You can enjoy delicious okonomiyaki while also experiencing healing services such as fortune-telling and oil massages. We invite everyone to join us and enjoy a time of healing!✨ Heart and Healing Marche Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 10:30 AM - 3:30 PM Location: Kawayu Onsen EZO HOUSE

Introduction of Menuki from Wakedo Item Number: M380905 Title: Botan zu Menuki Signature: Mumei, Mito Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Hozon Tousougu Dimensions: Left: Height 25.2mm, Width 22.5mm Right: Height 25.2mm, Width 22.5mm Weight: 22g (combined) Period: Late Edo School: Mito Description Mito is one of the Tokugawa Gosanke and a castle town. Here, a group known as Mito metalworkers flourished, forming the Mito carving style and producing many famous artisans such as Yuan Fu, Ichiryu Tomoyoshi, Mikawa Yoshihisa, Hiroyoshi Uchikoshi, and Hagiya Katsuhira. This piece is a menuki of peony made of pure gold, characterized by its large, three-dimensional form and excellent craftsmanship.