【Hamanoura Rice Terraces】 The terraced rice fields of Hamanoura in Genkai Town are filled with water before rice planting, and they are in the best season. During the magic hour at dusk, the sunset is reflected in the Paddy Field of the terraced rice fields, creating a beautiful scene.

Arao’s food scene offers a rich variety! Families and friends alike will find plenty of satisfying flavors. From specialty sushi bars, ramen shops, okonomiyaki and yakiniku restaurants to chic cafes and eateries, plus a wide selection of confectioneries and nighttime drinking spots, Arao’s gourmet options are abundant. After a day of fun, enjoy a meal at your favorite place. ~Sharara (Sharara)~ After a meal and a parfait, savor a gentle coffee brewed with a siphon. Genre Cafe Address 1107-3 Miyauchi, Arao City Phone 0968-64-3825 Hours 11:00 – 21:00 (Last order 20:30) Closed Mondays; if a public holiday falls on Monday, the next day will be observed Parking 25 spaces Capacity 40 people Official site https://sharara1985.com//

Kikuchi Gorge: a breathtaking retreat of fresh verdant beauty Kikuchi Gorge, a signature attraction of Kikuchi City in Kumamoto Prefecture, is a stunning canyon chosen as one of Japan’s Top 100 Forest Bathing Sites, Top 100 Famous Waters, and Top 100 Waterfalls. About 17 km east of central Kikuchi, it lies on the northwestern slopes of the Aso outer rim at elevations between 500 m and 800 m, spanning a vast 1,193 hectares of peaceful woodland. A cobalt-blue stream so clear that the trees reflect on its surface runs through the gorge. The average water temperature stays around 14°C year-round. On bright blue-sky days the water turns an even deeper blue as sunlight filters through the trees, creating a beautiful scene. In May the contrast between fresh green leaves, the sky, and the stream is especially striking. You can hear the gentle flow of the river and birdsong, and see many wildflowers in bloom. Well-maintained trails run through the gorge, with clear signs to guide you, so you can take a relaxed walk through the primeval forest. The gorge also features many waterfalls, including Shijusanman Falls, Reimei Falls, and Ryugafuchi, all selected among Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls. Be sure to find your favorite. Rest facilities with a souvenir corner sell items such as coffee made with the gorge’s delicious water, allowing you to unwind while overlooking the canyon. In spring you can feel new life in the fresh green leaves after winter. Summer makes the gorge an ideal cool retreat, often described as a natural air conditioner with its crisp, cool air. Autumn brings colorful foliage, and winter offers a clear, bracing atmosphere. Please experience Kikuchi Gorge through all four seasons. ■ About Kikuchi Gorge ■ 〇 Open season: April 1–November 30 (typical) 〇 Hours: 8:30–17:00 〇 Maintenance cooperation fee: 300 yen per person for high school students and older ※ The receipt for the cooperation fee includes a 200-yen discount voucher usable at Kikuchi Onsen day-use baths. Parking First parking lot: approx. 80 spaces / 7 large vehicle spaces Second parking lot: approx. 45 spaces (open during busy periods only) Central parking lot: approx. 80 spaces (open during busy periods only) A free shuttle bus operates from the central parking lot during Golden Week and other busy periods. Parking fees Standard car: 300 yen Motorbike: 200 yen Microbus: 1,000 yen Large vehicle: 2,000 yen Kikuchi Sightseeing Shared Taxi A reservation-based shared sightseeing taxi links major Kikuchi City attractions (including Kikuchi Gorge) with the city center. It operates on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, substitute holidays, and Golden Week. Service is suspended during the New Year holidays (December 29–January 3). Take a deep breath at Kikuchi Gorge. Bask in negative ions and enjoy a leisurely moment in nature.

🌸 Akebono Azalea 🌸 The azalea 🌸 blooms from mid-April and can be enjoyed until early May at the longest. It is a very large deciduous broad-leaved tree of the genus Azalea of the family Azaleaceae and is found on rocky cliffs in high mountains above 1000 m. The most early blooming among high mountain azaleas. It grows wild in clusters near the Morotsukayama West Trailhead, and the scenery of colorful pink flowers blooming in the mountains in Spring is a superb view ✨ The Akebono Azalea Cluster of trees on Mt. Morotsuka is about 5 minutes up the hill from the Torii (shrine gate) ⛩️ gate at the west trailhead. Appreciation is easy without authentic mountain climbing, so many people from all over Kyushu visit to see this nature 🍃. Morotsukayama's azaleas are about to reach their Best time to visit! Please come and 😊 see the cherry blossoms

The season for fireflies has arrived again. Kikuchi City is a famous firefly spot known as “Japan’s number one firefly home.” You can see them along the Nikakiga River and the Watase River in the Asahi-shi area of Kikuchi City. The places where you can see fireflies in Japan are decreasing year by year. Fireflies do not only thrive where the water is pristine. They prefer places with gentle water flow, sandy or gravelly riverbeds, low ambient light, quiet surroundings, and the presence of freshwater snails such as kawanina. They favor these limited types of habitat. As global environmental issues worsen, the habitats where fireflies can live are also shrinking. Even so, you can still see many fireflies in Kikuchi City. Fireflies spend their larval stage growing in the water for about a year while storing food. They then pupate and emerge as adults. As adults, they live for about two weeks. In other words, out of the 365 days of the year, the period when you can enjoy fireflies is only about two weeks. Also, adult fireflies do not eat. They spend their adult lives without feeding. The fireflies we watch are living through a life that ends in a flash. Each year we can see them because, despite that short life, they reliably pass their life on to the next generation. We are very happy that fireflies can be viewed in Kikuchi City again this year. Please come and visit Kikuchi City to enjoy firefly viewing. □ Best viewing times ・Nikakiga River: mid-May ・Watase River: mid-May to late May □ Viewing areas ・Kikuchi City, Asahi-shi Obara (Obara district) ・Kikuchi City, Asahi-shi Fumoto (Takayanagi district) □ Parking…parking available in each district ・Obara district parking (Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays only, 200 yen) (May 11–early June) ・Takayanagi district parking (free) (May 17–early June) □ Viewing etiquette ・Do not shine flashlights or lights at the fireflies → Fireflies dislike strong light. Shining phone lights or using a flash can cause them to hide. It also disturbs other viewers. ・Do not make loud noises or cause disturbances → Loud noise will scare the fireflies and bother nearby residents. Please be considerate as viewing takes place at night. ・Do not catch or take them home → Adult fireflies can fly for only one to two weeks. Enjoy watching them living in the wild. ・Take your trash home with you → Fireflies live in clean environments. Let’s all protect the beautiful natural environment. ・Follow traffic rules → Viewing takes place at night. Please watch for people stepping onto roads. Road restrictions may be in place around viewing areas during the viewing season. Please cooperate to help keep viewers safe.

【Akisei Observation decks】 ◎First Observation deck In the Akisei Observation decks, there There are the first Observation deck and the second Observation deck. The first Observation deck is currently 🌳 tall and cannot be seen. Fun the ♪ open space ◎ 2nd Observation deck 360° Panoramic Observation decks at an elevation of 1000m with a panoramic view from Nobeoka to Aso in the distance. Can✨ When the weather is nice, you can see the scenery of Hyuga Nada and Mt. Osuzu, as well as the chimney of Asahi Kasei with the naked eye. Since it faces the direction of the rising Sunrise 🌄, some people come to see the first sunrise. *All photos were taken from the 2nd Observation deck. (Photo: Junhiro Aya) There is little light in the buildings and the sky is beautiful, so some people come to take pictures of the starry sky 🌟 We are welcome. ◎ Car parking lot If you go straight without turning towards the Observation deck, there is a parking lot 🅿️ Car the back. Why don't you 🤗 come and take panoramic photos 📷 of the Four Seasons at the Akisei Observation decks?

[🌸Gokase Hanami 2025 Submitted Photos — Part 10🌸] The entries submitted to the “#Gokase Hanami 2025” held on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account have reached a pause for now as of today💪🌸 The photo contest is still open, so please do submit your entries🤗✨ @_yuta610 @fowafuwarin5 @meiko_ryu @tokotan2._.2 (in no particular order) This time we received many night cherry blossom photos👏 Even with a step ladder or whatever I try, I can’t take good night photos at all — how do people manage to capture such beautiful night shots like these?🤔 They’re truly wonderful!!! We’ll post again when more featured works have been collected🤗💡 -------------------------------------------------------------------- ≪#Gokase Hanami 2025 — How to Enter≫ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account and post photos of flowers taken within Gokasecho on Instagram with the two hashtags #Gokase Hanami 2025 and #date of shooting (example: #March 20)🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... [Period] From Thursday, March 20, 2025 to Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️ Other rules are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Be sure to read them before applying. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️Please take great care to avoid accidents when photographing.

\"Izumi Meat Festival" Held in! 🍖／ Held in the 20th anniversary of Izumi City, the Izumi Meat Festival will be held 🎊✨ on Saturday, May 10 and Sunday, May 11 The venue is the north Car parking lot of the Takaono Branch Office (the parking lot in front of the main office Car Takaono the Tsurumachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry). In addition to enjoying exquisite meat gourmet food, Izumi City's Specialty products are sold, and stage events are also available 🚚🎶 for the whole family to enjoy. In addition, "Premium Gift Certificates" will also be on sale on the day! For 1,000 yen, you can purchase a gift certificate worth 1,500 yen. In addition, we are looking for participants for the #BBQ, which has been well received every time! (First 20 booths) The application method and details are as follows. 🍖BBQ date and time Sunday, May 11, 2025 11:00~14:00 (*BBQ will be Held in Traditional Japanese straw raincoat on Sundays.) ） 🍖How to apply for BBQ participation Please apply in one of the following ways. (1) When applying electronically Please fill in the required information on the dedicated page and apply. https://shinsei.pref.kagoshima.jp/SksJuminWeb/EntryForm?id=RGc8KRz5... (2) When applying by fax Please fill out the application form and send it to FAX: 0996-63-1331 to apply. Please take this opportunity to Enjoy the BBQ at the venue! !! * Cancellation is not possible after application. Held in around the venue during the Events, and Use the free shuttle bus is convenient due 🚌 to implementation of traffic restrictions and expected congestion Click here for 👇 details https://www.city.kagoshima-izumi.lg.jp/page/page_011061.html...

Kamikadoji Temple and the Rhododendrons Kamikadoji Temple sits in Asaji Town, Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. The rhododendrons bloom in profusion and look beautiful. Their pale pink petals are especially lovely. Date photographed: April 21, 2025 Location Kamikadoji Temple (Torita, Asaji Town, Bungo Ono City) ▶ Parking available ▶ Restroom available Kamikadoji Temple Kamikadoji Temple is an ancient temple with over a thousand years of history. It stands on a ridge made of columnar joints of welded tuff formed about 15 million years ago, offering excellent views and historically serving as a strategic stronghold in battles. The temple grounds are planted with many rhododendrons, drawing many visitors during the season. Access to central Bungo Ono City About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu Introducing tourism and recommended spots in Bungo Ono City We share beautiful places around the city on our Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/satonotabiii/...

Rhododendrons at Jinkakuji As of April 21, 2025 The rhododendrons at Jinkakuji in Asaji Town, Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. The rhododendrons are in full bloom and look beautiful. The pale pink petals are especially lovely. Location Jinkakuji (Torida, Asaji Town, Bungo Ono City) ▶ Parking available ▶ Restrooms available Jinkakuji Jinkakuji is an ancient temple with a history of more than a thousand years. It sits on a ridge of columnar joints formed from welded tuff about 15 million years ago, giving it excellent views and making it a strategic stronghold in past conflicts. The temple grounds are planted with many rhododendrons and attract many visitors during the season. Access to central Bungo Ono City About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu

Ubuyama's Connecting Rice Fields Rice Planting Experience The Fan Terraced Rice Fields in Ubuyama Village, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture, are made by clearing eroded land in the mountains and are created in a contour shape by taking advantage of the fan-shaped terrain. The Water for the Paddy Field is directly derived from the Famous water Yamabuki Water source 1,300 Meter upstream, Water Clear streams that can also be Use as a beverage Water. Although there are difficulties in maintenance and management due to water water leaks, disasters, etc., since most of them are earthen water channels, we Cultivation Rice with a unique taste due to high-quality red clay born from nature and weather with temperature differences. It has been selected as one of the 100 best rice terraces in Japan and one of the 100 best Rice growers. Interested parties who are interested in growing delicious Rice in Ubuyama Village, why don't you experience it with the farmers who manage Ogida throughout the year? Rice can be purchased after harvest. Let's make the Rice we eat every day with our activities to pass on beautiful Nature to future generations! You can experience everything from rice planting to rice harvesting, which is planned later. 【Recruiting Participants】 2025-05-17 (Sat) Meet at 8:45 and start at 9:00 Meeting place: Ogi Terraced Observation decks We clean the water channel from the Yamabuki Water source that streams into Ogita. Please come in clothes that allow you to work. * Lunch box fee and leisure insurance fee are included in the participation fee. Participation fee: 1000 yen ■Click here to apply 〒869-2703 Kumamoto Prefecture Aso District Ubuyama Yamaga 468-4 0967-25-2200 *The deadline is Friday, May 9th. #Kumamoto #Rice Terraces #Ubuyama #Rice planting experience #Rice harvesting experience #Rice making #Aso District #Fan Terraced Rice Fields

🌸 Gokase Hanami 2025 — Featured Photos, No. 9 🌸 We’re wrapping up the introductions to the entries submitted to “#Gokase Hanami 2025” on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account, with just one more installment to go 🥹 Thank you for so many wonderful submissions 👏✨ @8215dr72 @920cherry71 @omilove.1203 (in no particular order) We received breathtakingly beautiful photos that make you sigh 🥺💕 Many photos feature Josenji, but we also loved fresh perspectives such as shots of the cherry-tree-lined road taken from afar and weeping cherry trees reflected in car windows — truly lovely 😳💫 Yesterday we announced that Akebono azaleas and rhododendrons are at their best 💡 With the weather not looking great today or tomorrow, we worry they may not last, so if you can, please take photos and submit them to “#Gokase Hanami 2025” 🤗✨ -------------------------------------------------------------------- How to Enter “#Gokase Hanami 2025” Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account, then post photos of flowers taken within Gokasecho on Instagram with two hashtags: #Gokase Hanami 2025 and #Date of shooting (for example: #March 20) 🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... Period: Thursday, March 20, 2025 to Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️ Additional rules are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Please read them carefully before entering. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️ Please take great care to avoid accidents while photographing.

[Amakusa Sea Sunset Cruising ⛴️🌆] Individual Sailings Now Available! Enjoy the Amakusa Sea sunset from onboard with the “Amakusa Sea Sunset Cruising,” running for individual customers on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month in April and May. Board Reihoku Kanko Kisen’s Kizuna III at Tomioka Port and head west along the Tomioka Peninsula for an approximately one-hour cruise to watch the sun sink into the sea and experience the magic hour. ⛴️Fare (per person) Adult (junior high school students and older) ¥3,000 Child ¥1,500 ⛴️Meeting point Tomioka Port Passenger Waiting Area (Kizuna Station) *Please arrive at least 15 minutes before departure.* ⛴️Operating dates (approximate departure times) [April] 12th, 26th (6:00 PM) [May] 10th, 24th (6:20 PM) Reservations This cruise requires advance reservation. Please call Reihoku Kanko Kisen Co., Ltd., the operator, to book directly. ⚠️Notes Please understand that sailings may be canceled or the sunset may not be visible due to bad weather, strong winds, or high waves. ⛴️Contact Reihoku Kanko Kisen Co., Ltd. Tel: 0960-35-0705 (Hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM) For more details, please visit the Amakusa Reihoku Tourist Association website. 👉 Check the link in this account’s profile!

[Cendan handmade cutting board] group to study the forestry industry in Morotsuka Village, the "Morotsuka Village Forestry Research group" For short, it is a cutting board made by everyone at the Forestry Institute! At the Forestry Research Institute, forestry workers and others grow their own logs 🌳 Shiitake 🍄 🟫 mushroom farmers also belong to it. Traditional Japanese straw raincoat unique to handmade 🤲, made of wood 🌳 as it is. Beautiful wood grain, amber shine ✨ finished with walnut oil It can be used as a cutting board to cut ingredients and carry it to the table as a plate to add color 💡 Items of Excellence Ingredients are made of cedar wood 🌳 Morotsuka Village is planted with many cedar and cypress trees, which are used as building materials, and kunugi trees, which are used as raw wood for shiitake mushrooms, but why was the cedar tree chosen? 🤔❔ The answer lies There is a in the potential of the sendan tree! Compared to cedar, which takes more than 40~60 years to grow, cedar is cut down in 20 years. Grow fast 💨 enough to be able to In addition, six times more CO2 is used for its growth than cedar. It is strong enough and easy to process. As long as it grows straight, it will be an ideal wood. I set my eyes on 👀 such a sendan Members of the Fukuoka Prefecture cooperative and the Fukuoka-Okawa Furniture Industry Association. In addition to making sendan furniture, sendan trees are also planted in various places. We are welcome. He also visited Morotsuka Village to plant the trees, and was involved 🤝 with everyone at the Forestry Research Institute. It seems that it was done. Cendan furniture with an eye on the future and the environment. Squid why not use it at home? ❔ Only the small size is and width for each one, They range from orthodox to unique outfits. You can enjoy the excitement until it ♪ arrives and opens ★ Sendan's handmade cutting boards can be 🤗 purchased at the Morotsuka Village Tourism Association (Shiitake-no-kan 21) or the Morotsuka Store (online shop)

[🌸 Gokase Hanami 2025 Photo Submissions — No. 8 — 🌸] Lately, the Gokase Tourism Association has been featuring entries to the “#Gokase Hanami 2025” on its Instagram account, and only a few submissions remain to be showcased at this stage 😳 @taniyan1119 @tm21mt @tourism09wine @yaaaaaa.85 @naoki_photo.graphy @naomin168 @kurota_kurohei (In no particular order) Mixed in with Josenji Temple and the Harada family’s site, we received many heartwarming shots of local weeping cherry trees, adorable pet dogs, and bright red boke (flowering quince) berries ☺️💕 Thank you all so much for the many submissions ✨ We’re still accepting entries, so feel free to post your photos anytime 🤗 -------------------------------------------------------------------- ≪#How to Enter #Gokase Hanami 2025≫ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account and post a photo of flowers taken within Gokasecho. Add the two hashtags #Gokase Hanami 2025 and #the shooting date (for example: #March 20) to your Instagram post 🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... Period: From Thursday, March 20, 2025 until Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️ Other rules are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Please read them before submitting. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️Please take great care to avoid accidents while photographing.

The Yamaga Lantern Folk Art Museum celebrated its 100th anniversary. The Yamaga Lantern Folk Art Museum was built in 1925 as the former Yasuda Bank Yamaga Branch, and this year marks its 100th anniversary. It is the first reinforced concrete building in Yamaga, and it is a historical building with various designs and features everywhere, including an Ionic style exterior. After that, it was used as "Higo Bank Yamaga Branch", and now it is registered as a national registered tangible cultural property and is used as a base point facilities for broadcasting the charm of traditional crafts and Yamaga lanterns. The Yamaga Lantern Folk Art Museum exhibits a number of masterpieces of Yamaga lanterns. Enjoy the world of "Yamaga lanterns", which can be said to be synonymous with Yamaga.

[🌸Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 Entry Photo Showcase – Part 7–🌸] We continue to share entries submitted to the "#Gokase Flower Viewing 2025" held on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account🤗🌟 @sokoatari.urouro This collection captures many expressions of the weeping cherry tree at Josenji Temple😳✨Daytime, nighttime, from far, from near, from below… each perspective brings a totally different feel, and it’s fascinating👏! We won’t post tomorrow, but we still have many entries to show, so please stay tuned a little longer☺️🙏 -------------------------------------------------------------------- ≪#How to Enter #Gokase Flower Viewing 2025≫ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account, then post photos of flowers taken within Gokasecho on Instagram with the two hashtags #Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 and #date of shooting (example: #March 20)🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... [Period] From Thursday, March 20, 2025 to Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️Other terms are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Be sure to read them before entering. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️Please take great care to avoid accidents while photographing.

Botan cherry blossoms at Eboshi Park ❚ Bloom status as of April 17, 2025 The botan cherry blossoms at Eboshi Park in Oono, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. They are now about 70% in bloom. Blossoming is progressing. Blooming is likely to advance further over the weekend. [Location] Eboshi Park (Oono, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture) ▶ Parking available ▶ Restroom available (temporary) ▶ Access: about a 15-minute drive from Roadside Station Oono ❚ Eboshi Park The park was created within the precincts of Josui-ji Temple on Mt. Eboshidake. It is a famous spot for botan cherry blossoms, with about 500 trees in full bloom. ■■■ Access to central Bungoono City ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Kyushu, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250418spot-oono-2/...

[🌸 Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 — Featured Entries, No. 6 🌸] It’s finally starting to get truly warm here. ☀️ Today we continue showcasing works entered in the “#Gokase Flower Viewing 2025” contest on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account. 💪💡 @smail_barm @taka_gr86rz @takataka0129 @thusandleavis (in no particular order) We received submissions of weeping cherry blossoms from Josenji, the Harada family, and Kijiya. 🌸✨ There’s also a photo of the cherry tree at Koshouji at the foot of Gokase Winery — it’s huge! 😳 What kind of entries will appear tomorrow? 🤗 Stay tuned!! The photo contest is still open for submissions. 🌟 Spring in Gokase isn’t just about cherry blossoms — please photograph various flowers and enter! 🥳 -------------------------------------------------------------------- [How to Enter the #Gokase Flower Viewing 2025] Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account, then post photos of flowers taken within Gokasecho on Instagram with the two hashtags #Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 and #date of shooting (for example: #March 20). 🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... [Period] From Thursday, March 20, 2025 through Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️ Other terms are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Please be sure to read them before entering. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️ Please take great care to avoid accidents while photographing.

[The 40th Morotsukayama Mountain Opening Commemorative "Special Project" Two Contests Wanted!] 】 March 9 (Sun) ~ December 5 (Fri) "Morotsukayama Photo Contest" and Held in two contests: the Pennant Design Contest. Squid why don't you visit Mt. Morotsuka and take some wonderful photos 📷? ◆ ◇ ◆ Morotsukayama Photo Contest ◆ ◇ ◆ Spring when azaleas 🌸 bloom, summer when the wind 🍃 is pleasant, autumn when autumn leaves 🍂 are magnificent, Snow-capped ⛄ and frosty winters. Which Morotsukayama do you prefer? As a place of Descent of the Heavenly Grandson, as a mountain of Shugendo, as a gathering place of faith Mt. Morotsuka is cherished and easy to climb even for beginners in mountaineering. We are waiting for the special photos 📷 taken at Mt. Morotsuka. The winning works will be used ♪ as PR Ingredients for next year's mountain opening 《How to apply》 (1) General Category Morotsuka Navi HP → Wind News → [The 40th Morotsukayama Mountain Opening Commemorative "Special Project" 2 Contest Recruitment] Please check from the following. (2) Insta Division Please follow the Morotsuka Village Tourism Association's Account "Himekuri Morotsuka@morotsuka.tourism" on Instagram and post the Morotsukayama Photo Contest 2025. *Please note that if you unfollow us, we will not be able to contact you to send you prizes. * Winning works may be asked to provide large-size data at a later date. ■ Precautions ・ If the subject is a person, be sure to obtain the consent of the subject himself/herself, such as portrait rights. ・The copyright of the submitted work belongs to the organizer and will be used for PR activities of the Village. ・ Each person can submit as many works as they want, but each person is limited to one winning work. ・ Thereare that the winning works may be provided with large-size original data at a later date. ‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐*‐ ◆ ◇ ◆ Pennant Design Contest ◆ ◇ ◆ Specialties of Morotsukayama Mountain Opening are here! This is a wooden 🌳 pennant to be presented 🎁 to all participants. The five episodes up to the 40th were delivered as the "Morotsuka Flower 🌸 Series". From the 41st anniversary, the design has been completely redesigned ✨. The work selected for the grand prize will be used for the opening pennant from next year onwards. Thank you for this meal. There is only one condition: "🌳 Use wooden ingredients". Design, shape, and color are all free! 💡 We'd love ♪ to hear from you 《How to apply》 ①WEB Morotsuka Navi HP → Wind News → [The 40th Morotsukayama Mountain Opening Commemorative "Special Project" 2 Contest Recruitment] Please check from the following. (2) Send by mail Fill in your name, Address, Phone number, email address, and title of the work. Please send the design drawing to the mailing address below. * The design drawing you sent cannot be returned. 《Mailing address》 〒883-1301 Miyazaki Prefecture, Higashiusuki-gun, Morotsuka Village 3068 Shiitake-no-kan 21 To the "Pennant Contest Secretariat" ■ Precautions ・The copyright of the submitted work belongs to the organizer and will be used for PR activities of the Village. ・ Each person can submit as many works as they want, but each person is limited to one winning work. * The winners will be selected by lottery to win ✨ a wonderful gift 🎁 We look forward to receiving many applications!!

【🌸Gokase Hanami 2025 — Featured Photos, No.5🌸】 We continue to steadily showcase works submitted to the Gokase Hanami 2025 contest currently running on the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account 🥳 @reoron001219 @sakai_0808 @sayasyoto (in no particular order) We received many photos of weeping cherry trees set against clear blue skies 🌸✨ Everyone’s framing is truly brilliant… we’re always amazed, wondering how they captured such scenes from any angle 😳👏 Although akebono azaleas and rhododendrons aren’t fully in bloom yet, they’re starting to open little by little 🤗 The photo contest runs until Sunday, May 11, so please keep those entries coming 🎶 -------------------------------------------------------------------- ≪How to Enter Gokase Hanami 2025≫ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account, then post photos of flowers taken within Gokasecho on Instagram with two hashtags: #Gokase Hanami 2025 and #shooting date (example: #March 20) 🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... Period: Thursday, March 20, 2025 to Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️Other terms are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Be sure to read them before applying. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️Please take care to avoid accidents while shooting photos.

[Event Information] The Kyushu Three Great Spring Festivals “Odaishi-san” returns this year! 📆 Friday, April 18th–Sunday, April 20th, 2025 📍 Imayama Daishi (3998 Yamashita-cho 2-chome, Nobeoka City) 🚶‍♂️ 15 minutes on foot from Nobeoka Station 📞 Inquiries: Imayama Daishi Sponsorship Association (inside Nobeoka Chamber of Commerce and Industry) 0982-33-6666 ーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーー 🚗 Parking Information 🚗 If you are coming by car, please use the Furukawa Riverside Free Parking Lot (capacity about 400 cars). From this parking lot to the Nobeoka Station West Exit highway bus stop, a free shuttle bus is available! [Operation Hours] Saturday the 19th: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sunday the 20th: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM Also, from the Imayama Daishi east approach, a shuttle taxi (¥200 per person) is convenient for getting to Imayama Daishi! [Operation Hours] Friday the 18th, Saturday the 19th, Sunday the 20th: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM ーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーー This festival, filled with the prayers of the historic Kobo Daishi and the passion of local people, is a treasured tradition. On the final day, the daimyo procession parade brings the streets to life with spectacular costumes! Enjoy the unique hospitality and crafted displays that make Odaishi-san special! This year too, come and enjoy Odaishi-san with your family and friends✨ *For details, please see the Imayama Daishi website.* https://www.imayamadaisi.com//

[Certified as a Fukuoka Cycle Gateway! ] 】 Fukuoka Prefecture is promoting the "Fukuoka Cycle Spot Project" to improve the convenience of tourists by car and to maintenance a comfortable cycling environment. Okagaki Town Tourism Association and Rinrin Club Okagaki have been certified as "Fukuoka Prefecture Cycle Gateway"! !️👏 ・ I am in the bicycle rental business. ・Use showers, coin lockers, and changing rooms ・ Rotary Car repair tools and repair kits are available for rent. ・ There is a sale of food and drink. There are conditions such as: We are waiting for you to provide a comfortable environment for cyclers. Please Use 🚲 it #Okagaki Town #Okagaki Town Tourism Association #Hatsu Coast #Rinrin Club Okagaki #Bicycle Rental #Seaside Cycling #Fukuoka Cycle Gateway #Hatsuten

【🌸 Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 — Featured Submissions, Part 4 🌸】 We are continuing to showcase works submitted to the Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 event, which is currently running on the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account. Today we bring you more entries every day🌟 @fowafuwarin5 @gokase_pan @hisabou1958 @kickcamp_with_jimny @landscape133_22 @madame.rururu (in no particular order) This time there are many night cherry blossom photos from Kijiya🌸🌙 We are very pleased to see Josenji and the Harada family’s weeping cherry trees captured from so many perspectives☺️💕 There are also striking shots of the red-and-white camellias blooming at the base of Josenji’s cherry trees✨It’s delightful to enjoy the charm of various flowers🎶 We are still accepting submissions, so please send yours in abundance🤗✨ -------------------------------------------------------------------- ≪How to enter Gokase Flower Viewing 2025≫ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account and post photos of flowers taken within Gokasecho on Instagram with two hashtags: Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 and the photo date (for example: March 20).🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... Period: Thursday, March 20, 2025 to Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️ Other rules are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Please be sure to read them before applying. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️ Please take care to avoid accidents while photographing.

【Morotsukayama Mountain stream village】 Of the two campsites 🏕️ in the Village, one is here, Morotsukayama Mountain Stream no Sato. It is a Rich in nature campsite with Mt. Morotsuka, which is one of the One Hundred Famous Mountains of Kyushu nearby, towering. At Mt. Morotsuka, in Spring, you can admire the azaleas 🌸 in the Cluster of trees located 2~3 minutes on foot from the West Trailhead. Just below the log house is a river park adjacent to a valley with abundant 💧 water. In summer, you can also enjoy 😊 water play in the Mountain stream and fishing 🎣 (recreational fishing ticket required) In the village of Mountain stream, there are three log House for 5 people using wood from Morotsuka and a free site limited to 3 groups per day There are. Recommended for those who ✨ want to enjoy free and quiet camping

The season has come again for carp streamers to flutter over Iwamoto Bridge! Iwamoto Bridge, a designated Important Cultural Property of Kumamoto Prefecture, measures 32 m in length and 4 m in width. This rare stone arch bridge was built in the Edo period by double-stacking cut rock from Aso gyotan-ishi. It spans the Sekigawa River on the border between Arao City and Omuta City and is affectionately known locally as an eyeglass bridge. The chrysanthemum crest carved in relief on the west-facing exterior is famous. It is said to be the work of Hashimoto Kangoro, a master builder from Yatsushiro who constructed many renowned bridges in the early Meiji era, including the Nijubashi at the Imperial Palace. The bridge is well preserved and you can walk across it. Raising date: Saturday, April 5 (If it rains, the event will be postponed by one week) Period: Saturday, April 5 to mid-May Location: Iwamoto Bridge 182-2 Kamiede, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture 864-0013

【Forest in the Sky Pond Kubo Green Park】 Located around 800 meters above elevation in Morotsuka Village, which is rich in rich in nature, is Ikenokubo Green Park, a forest in the sky with a log house and a campsite. From the Hyuga direction, there is one car lane all the way, so even those who are not used to driving on mountain roads can rest assured. There are also Athletic, grass skiing, and Putting Golf, so from small children to parents and children, there 😆 is also a cross-country Course with a good view, There is a nearby, it is perfect for taking a leisurely walk while feeling the Nature 🍃. It takes about 5 minutes by car to the popular "Akisei Observatory" with a superb view ✨. It is also recommended to wake up early and watch the Sunrise. If you're lucky, you might even see a sea of clouds. Spring 🌸 in full bloom, summer greenery 🌳 and coolness unique to high places, fiery autumn Autumn leaves 🍂 and quiet winter ⛄ with flickering snow. It is a place where you can relax and enjoy the scenery and nature of the four seasons that change every day. There are two campsites in the Village, one of which is here, Ikenokubo Green Park.

🌸 Gokase Cherry Blossom Photos 2025 — Featured Entries #3 🌸 We’re continuing our daily showcase of works submitted to the Gokase Cherry Blossom 2025 contest on the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account. @bluesea12067 @code_name_cross_fire We received a wonderfully diverse set of entries.🤩 Scenes include the spring mountains and historic buildings tucked deep in Kuwanouchi, a moss-and-cherry blossom pairing, and cherry trees framed from a winery-style hall.🤗 Everyone enjoys hanami in their own way, and it’s such fun to see the variety.😆💕 Thank you to everyone who entered.🙇‍♀️ We’re still accepting submissions, so please capture your own way of enjoying hanami and enter the contest.🤗✨ -------------------------------------------------------------------- How to Enter Gokase Cherry Blossom 2025 Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account, then post photos of flowers taken in Gokasecho on Instagram with two hashtags: #GokaseCherryBlossom2025 and #date of shooting (for example: #March 20).🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... Period: Thursday, March 20, 2025 to Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️ Other rules are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Please be sure to read them before applying. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️Please take care to avoid accidents while shooting photos.

Today's rain will completely end the cherry blossoms. This year, the temperature was low, and I was able to enjoy the cherry blossoms for a long time. Okagaki Town has a Famous landmarks There are of many cherry blossoms, especially the approach to the temple of Mt. Narita, where about 500 cherry blossoms are lined up, and they are Light up at night and are very beautiful. Even if you couldn't see it this year, please come to Okagaki Town next Spring to see the cherry blossoms.

The mountain climbing season has arrived. Kuranodake, located in Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, offers trails for beginners through advanced hikers. It is a mountain that even small children can enjoy. From the summit you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama, and a big appeal is that you can easily challenge yourself starting from the 9th station. The elevation is 1,118 m. It was selected as one of the Top 100 Walking Trails in Japan. It sits at the western end of the Aso outer rim, and the name comes from its saddle-like shape. Following the northeast ridge of Kuranodake leads to peaks such as Mount Tsumushi (1,064 m), and some hikers aim for them from Kuranodake’s summit. The mountain hosts many alpine plants and bird species. There are several routes up Kuranodake; for intermediate and advanced hikers there are the Forest Course and the Panorama Course. Beginners can drive up to the 9th station and start from the East Trailhead Course. With routes of varying difficulty, many families hike together. From the summit you can see the Kuju Mountain Range, the Five Peaks of Aso, Mt. Kimpō, and Unzen. Many people bring a packed lunch or coffee to enjoy on the hike. Before hiking, pick up maps and information at Shiki no Sato in Asahishi-Fumoto, Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, located at the trail entrance, and why not give it a try?