[40th MtMorotsukayama Opening Commemoration “Special Project” — Two Contests Now Accepting Entries!] From Sunday, March 9 to Friday, December 5, we are holding two contests: the “MtMorotsukayama Photo Contest” and the “Pennant Design Contest.” Visit MtMorotsukayama and try capturing beautiful photos📷. ◆◇◆ MtMorotsukayama Photo Contest ◆◇◆ Spring brings blooming akebono azaleas🌸, summer brings refreshing breezes🍃, autumn showcases brilliant foliage🍂, and winter brings snow-capped peaks⛄ and rime ice. Which MtMorotsukayama do you love? Cherished as the site of the Tenson Korin (descent of the heavenly grandchild), a mountain of shugendo practice, and a place of devotion, MtMorotsukayama remains accessible even to beginner hikers. We look forward to your special photos📷 taken on MtMorotsukayama. Winning entries may be used as PR materials for next year’s mountain opening.♪ How to Enter 1) General Category Please check the Morotsuka Navi website → Kaze no Tayori → [40th MtMorotsukayama Opening Commemoration “Special Project” — Two Contests Now Accepting Entries]. 2) Instagram Category Follow the Morotsuka Village Tourism Association account “Morotsuka Daily Calendar @morotsuka.tourism” on Instagram and post with the tag #MtMorotsukayama Photo Contest 2025. If you unfollow, we will not be able to contact you to deliver prizes, so please be careful. Winners may later be asked to provide high-resolution image files. Notes - If the subject of a photo is a person, obtain the subject’s permission for portrait rights. - Copyright for submitted works belongs to the organizer and may be used for village PR activities. - You may submit multiple entries, but only one winning entry per person is allowed. - Winning entries may be requested later in large original file size. -*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*- ◆◇◆ Pennant Design Contest ◆◇◆ This is a cherished tradition of the MtMorotsukayama opening! Participants receive a wooden🌳 pennant as a gift🎁. For the first five editions up to the 40th, we offered the “Flowers of Morotsuka🌸 series.” From the 41st anniversary, we’re refreshing the design✨ The grand prize winner’s design will be adopted for mountain opening pennants from the following year onward. The only requirement is to use wood🌳 as the material. Design, shape, and color are all free! We welcome your fun and creative ideas💡♪ How to Enter 1) Web Please check the Morotsuka Navi website → Kaze no Tayori → [40th MtMorotsukayama Opening Commemoration “Special Project” — Two Contests Now Accepting Entries]. 2) By Mail Write your name, address, phone number, email address, and the title of your work, then mail your design drawing to the address below. Designs sent cannot be returned. Mailing Address 3068 Kajiwara, Morotsuka Village, Higashiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture 883-1301 Shiitake no Yakata 21 Attn: Pennant Contest Office Notes - Copyright for submitted works belongs to the organizer and may be used for village PR activities. - You may submit multiple entries, but only one winning entry per person is allowed. Winners will be entered into a drawing to receive wonderful prizes🎁✨ We look forward to many entries!!!

【🌸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.

Morotsuka-yama Keiryū no Sato Among the two campgrounds in the village, one is this Morotsuka-yama Keiryū no Sato (Morotsuka Mountain Stream Village). This nature-rich campground sits beneath Mt. Morotsuka, one of Kyushu’s 100 famous mountains. In spring, you can admire groves of Akebono azaleas about a 2–3 minute walk from the west trailhead of Mt. Morotsuka. Directly below the log cabins lies a riverside park adjacent to a valley with plentiful water. In summer, you can enjoy playing in the stream and fishing (a fishing permit is required). The campground features three five-person log cabins made from Morotsuka timber and a free campsite limited to three groups per day. It’s recommended for those who want a relaxed, peaceful camping experience.

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

Tenkuu no Mori Ikenokubo Green Park Perched at about 800 meters above sea level in nature-rich Morotsuka Village, Tenkuu no Mori Ikenokubo Green Park features log houses and a campsite. The road from the Hyuga direction is a single lane one-way for much of the route, so drivers who are not used to mountain roads can feel at ease. The park offers an athletic course, grass skiing, and putter golf, so families with young children can all enjoy it together 😆. A scenic cross-country course nearby makes it perfect for a leisurely walk while soaking in nature 🍃. The popular Akimasa Observatory, known for its spectacular views ✨, is about a five-minute drive. Getting up early to watch the sunrise is recommended, and with luck you might even see a sea of clouds. Enjoy spring when flowers bloom 🌸, summer greenery and the coolness of higher elevations 🌳, fiery autumn foliage 🍂, and quiet winter with drifting snow ⛄. It’s a place to savor the ever-changing seasonal scenery and relax in nature. The village has two campsites, and Ikenokubo Green Park is one of them.

🌸 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?

Arao’s food scene offers great variety! Families, friends, everyone will find plenty to enjoy! Arao’s dining ranges from specialty sushi restaurants, ramen shops, okonomiyaki and yakiniku spots to stylish cafes and restaurants, plus plentiful confectioneries and nighttime drinking establishments. After a full day of fun, relax at the spot you like. ~Kosen Dago Arao Main Store~ Sixty years of grilling flavor and heart. Genre Okonomiyaki Address 495 Shimoiide, Arao City Phone 0968-66-1911 Hours 11:00 – 21:00 (Last order 20:00) Closed Thursdays and during the New Year holidays Parking 30 spaces Official website http://www.kousendago.com/sub2.htm...

The 82nd Inukai Donko Fishing Tournament The Donko Fishing Tournament in Inukai Town, which began in 1929 (Showa 4), now marks its 82nd edition this year and has become widely known as the town of Donko. This year’s event includes attractions designed to delight the children, who are the stars of the day. Please join us for a Donko Fishing Tournament full of fun. Date and Time Sunday, May 11, 2025 Donko fishing registration starts / 8:30–10:30 Registration location / Tournament venue entrance Location Downstream of Inukai Ohashi Bridge (National Route 10 side) Kuhara, Inukai Town, Bungo-Ono City Entry Fee 500 yen per participant Bait included (first time only; additional bait 200 yen) Participation prize / child patch (for elementary school children and younger) * Fishing gear sets are available for rent (fee applies) * Payment of the entry fee grants access to the Treasure Hunt (for elementary school children and younger), weighing and judging for the Donko Fishing Tournament, and the fun prize lottery. Prizes Many prizes including 1st–3rd place, biggest fish award, and special awards Schedule ■ 11:00–11:30 Treasure Hunt Children will be divided into three groups (under elementary school age; grades 1–3; grades 4–6). ■ 12:00–13:00 Weigh-in and judging registration ■ 13:15 (planned) Results announcement and awards ■ 13:30–14:00 Prize lottery with luxurious prizes Other Events ■ Food stalls 9:00– Plenty of delicious food. ■ Exciting Fishing 10:30– Fun even for very young children. Participation fee 200 yen Additional Information Event will proceed in light rain. * Even if the weather is fine on the day, the event will be canceled if the river is swollen. For safety, do not enter the water above knee level. Wear a life jacket when playing in the river. Young children must be accompanied by a guardian at all times. Event Inquiries Bungo-Ono City Inukai Branch Office Phone: 097-578-1111 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 Kyushu, Bungo-Ono City, Oita Prefecture Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Bungo-Ono City, Oita Prefecture

[🌸 Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 — Featured Photos Vol.2 🌸] We’re back with another big batch of entries to the “#Gokase Flower Viewing 2025” contest now running on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account. We’ll be sharing many of the submissions today.💪🌟 @1230fuukeinoturishi These nostalgic shots capture not only the classic weeping cherry at Josenji Temple but also everyday cherry blossom scenes from the Kuraoka area.🥺 The photographer’s sensibility that turns your eyes not only to the cherry trees but also to the charming mountain flowers is something to admire and learn from…🙏✨ We’ll be featuring entries every day for a while, so please stay with us.🙇‍♀️ -------------------------------------------------------------------- ≪#How to Enter: Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 ≫ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account and post photos of flowers taken within Gokasecho. Add the two hashtags #Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 and #date of shooting (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 through Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️ Other rules 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 full care to avoid accidents when photographing.

[🌸 Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 — Featured Submissions, Part 1 🌸] We are sharing entries submitted to the Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 contest currently running on the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account.🫡✨ So many lovely entries arrived, and we’ll be showcasing them one after another.👏 @_yuta610 @a2o_yoshino @aaatkt6 (in no particular order) Photos feature the cherry blossoms at Josenji, the Harada family residence, Kijiya, and Mikasho Shrine.💡 The daytime blossoms and the night cherry trees are both truly beautiful.🥹💕 -------------------------------------------------------------------- ≪How to Enter the Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 Contest≫ 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 the shooting date (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. Be sure to read them before applying. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️Please take great care to avoid accidents while shooting photos.

Guide to the Manda Pit Multilingual Guide System 💁‍♀️✨ At Manda Pit, you can use a multilingual guide system as well as Japanese. Scan the QR code in the image or visit here → http://www.mandako.jp// to use the system! #Kumamoto #Arao #Manda Pit #mandako #MiikeCoalMine #MandaPit

How do you do! This is the Okagaki Town Tourism Association. Okagaki Town, Enga District, Fukuoka Prefecture, is located almost halfway between Fukuoka City and Kitakyushu City, and is a town rich in Rich in nature facing the Genkai Sea. While it is close to the city, it is packed with a variety of "charms of Okagaki Town" where you can enjoy the beautiful Nature scenery of the Four Seasons. It is blessed with a rich Nature environment such as the sea and mountains, and is rich in blessings such as Agricultural Products and seafood. It has gained popularity in recent years because you can enjoy attractions, gourmet food, and outdoor experiences such as seaside Barbecue and Bathing in the sea. In our "Okagaki Town Tourism Association" Account, we will Broadcasting Recommendations so that you can enjoy a Fully Equipped trip in Okagaki Town, so thank you. 【Access to Okagaki Town, Enga District, Fukuoka Prefecture】 ■Use public transportation from Fukuoka Airport 1. From Fukuoka Airport, take the subway or bus to Hakata Station. 2. From Hakata Station, take the JR Kagoshima Main Line and Get off at "Ebitsu Station". 3,From Ebitsu Station, you can use buses and Taxi to various places in the In the town. It takes about 1 hour ~ 1 hour and 30 minutes. It can be visited relatively smoothly even from a distance. ■ Car from the Hakata area Use ・ Routes to Kitakyushu via National Route No. 3, Kyushu Expressway, and urban expressway are convenient. Depending on traffic congestion, it can be accessed from Fukuoka City in about 1 hour. [What kind of town is Okagaki Town?] 】 Okagaki Town has a population of about 30,000 (2025) and is the most populous town in Toga District. Due to its location on the Genkai Sea, Local people are engaged in conservation activities and Coast sea turtles come ashore to lay eggs. In addition, since there is a possibility of landfall from late May to August every year, observation tours and awareness-raising events may be held depending on the season. In addition, in Okagaki Town, when the air is clear in early summer (every year around late May ~ June), "Okagaki Fireflies" dance fantastically, delighting many tourists and local residents. [Historical background of Okagaki Town, Toga District, Fukuoka Prefecture] It has been a land where agriculture has flourished since ancient times, and ports have developed along the Coast to support trade and people's lives. In the Edo period, it prospered as an important places for transportation connecting Kitakyushu and Fukuoka, and cultural properties such as shrines and temples and local industries unique to port cities developed. Even today, there are many historical sites and traditional events, and you can feel the faces of that time while strolling around. 【Popular Sightseeing spots in Okagaki Town, Onga District, Fukuoka Prefecture】 There are many attractive "attractions" in Okagaki Town. Highlights such as the rich Nature environment of the sea and mountains and cultural properties are a lot of. This time, we will introduce some of the Spots recommended by the "Okagaki Town Tourism Association". ■ Food Education Experience Farm Hokkori Farm It is a popular hands-on farm where you can learn about agricultural work while interacting with Nature. Adult and children can enjoy harvesting vegetables and making sausages according to the season. The staff will guide you carefully, so even beginners in agriculture can rest assured. It is a food education program using Fresh vegetables, and it is a fulfilling outdoor experience Spot that allows you to realize the importance of food and the Gari of connecting with Nature. ■Fukujozan Kaizo-ji Temple Kaizo-ji Temple is one of the ancient temples in Okagaki In the town, and was founded around 1320. Many people visit for the historic Buddha statues and architecture, and the calming atmosphere is attractive. ■Naritasan Fudo Temple Mt. Narita, which sits on a high ground of 200 Meter Elevation in Okagaki Town, is known for its vast Precincts and Powerful Presence Main Hall. It is a Temple that was opened by welcoming a Fudo Myoo from the daihonzan Naritasan Shinkatsu Temple of the Shingon sect of the Chizan sect in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture. From the Precincts, you can overlook the townscape of Okagaki Town and Genkai Sea, making it perfect for photography. ■Hatsu Fishing Port Fresh seafood from Genkai Sea is gathered at the fishing port, and Direct sales of seafood and seafood Shokudo are also lined up. If you take a walk and look at the scenery of the fishing port, you can feel the relationship between the lives of the townspeople and the sea. ■Mt. Yugawa Mt. Yukawa, with an elevation of about 470 meters, is a course that is easy to walk with convenient transportation, so even beginners can enjoy it. The Mountain Trail is maintained and safe. From the top of the mountain, you can overlook the Genkai Sea and the Toga Plain, and on a clear day, you can Unfolds breathtaking views. Spot recommended for those who want to try outdoor experiences while enjoying forest bathing. ■ Yuureizaka At first glance, it is an ordinary Slope on the road to Naritasan Fudo Temple, but it is a hot topic due to the mysterious phenomenon that if you put an empty can on this slope, it will go up the slope by itself. It is a famous mystery Spot that has often been featured in the mass media such as TV as "Yuureizaka". ■Konpira-san It is a 140-Meter-high mountain where the Kinbira Shrine, which is revered as the guardian of Okagaki Town, is located, and on the way to the summit, lush green trees grow and you can feel the breath of Nature. ■ Four Seasons Market Yappa ~ Okagaki Direct sales with Locally produced fresh vegetables, fruits, and processed goods. Seasonal ingredients are available at low prices, so many people Visit from outside the In the town. Agricultural products unique to Okagaki Town, such as Takakura Biwa and Kampo Kyoho grapes, are also attractive. Souvenirs and ingredients to add color to your home dining table are perfect for this cozy market, where you can enjoy interacting with local producers. 【Specialty products Gourmet of Okagaki Town, Enga District, Fukuoka Prefecture】 The "Specialty products" nurtured by the rich nature of Okagaki Town are packed with the charm that is indispensable for the Local dining table. Representative Gourmet food is introduced here. ■ Takakura Biwa Cultivated in the Takakura region, loquat is characterized by its tender flesh and juicy sweetness. Blessed with sea breezes and a warm climate, the Aroma is exceptional. During the harvest season, Local Direct sales are the center of the lineup, and the freshest loquats are lined up. ■Kyoho grapes It is a grape of Okagaki Original that incorporates Fertilizer and Cultivation methods derived from Chinese medicine in Kyoho grapes Raised nutrient-rich soil. It is characterized by its large fruit and strong sweetness, and is Popular for gifts and home use. You can enjoy a rich taste that is a little different from other grapes. ■ Authentic shochu "Okagaki" Local shochu is made from potatoes harvested locally. It is characterized by a mellow aroma and a refreshing aftertaste, and goes well with Meals. It is a Gastronomical delicacies where you can easily enjoy the taste of Okagaki Town. These Specialty products Gourmet are also popular as Furusato Nozei thank-you gift There are. 【Events and Festivals in Okagaki Town, Enga District, Fukuoka Prefecture】 In Okagaki Town, where local ties are Richly preserved, various Events and Festivals are held in throughout the year. One of the Representatives is the "Matsuri Okagaki" held every autumn. With the Okagaki Sunry Eye Fureai Plaza as the Main Venue, it is crowded with 20,000 visitors. Performances on stage and booths selling Specialty products are all gathered in one place, and many smiles are overflowing. 【Okagaki Town Tourist Information】 Okagaki Town, Enga District, Fukuoka Prefecture, is surrounded by the sea and mountains rich in Rich in nature, and is a town that continues to Broadcasting new charms while valuing tradition and history. Access is also good, and you can enjoy a day trip from Fukuoka City and Kitakyushu City. Cool Japan will Broadcasting Recommendations of Okagaki Town, so please follow us.

🌳2025 Yamagakko Registration Open🌳 “Yamagakko” means pretending to go to school while spending the day playing in the mountains. Not so long ago, when children walked an hour or two to school, their love of play remained unchanged. They walked to school through mountains and along rivers, places that were their everyday playgrounds full of wonder. They would lose track of time chasing birds 🕊️ or discovering tasty greens 🌱. At times like that, back at school “Aitsu wa dongyashita tsuna?” “Yama gakkō shocchaga” (I wonder why that kid isn’t here) (Maybe they’re out playing in the mountains) were the sort of conversations you’d hear. These are the joyful memories many people once shared.✨ The ecotour “Let’s Do Yamagakko in Morotsuka!” takes its cue from those mountain school days and offers a chance to encounter the rich, untouched nature 🍃 and the everyday lives of the people who live there. Would you like to set off on a Morotsuka-only journey that lets you fully experience the forest life honored as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage? [2025 Program — 8 Courses] 🌸Spring Traditional hand-plucked, hand-rolled kama-iri tea making: Saturday, May 10 🍃Summer Climb Mt. Kurodake in summer to see the “flower that brings happiness,” kirengeshoma: Saturday, August 23 and Sunday, August 24 🍂Autumn Get a head start on autumn flavors!! Chestnut gathering: Sunday, September 4 🍂Autumn Harvest summer vegetables and make pizza: Sunday, September 14 🍂Autumn Make local konnyaku: Saturday, October 4 🍂Autumn Yuzu picking and making yuzu kosho: Saturday, November 22 ⛄Winter Harvest seasonal shiitake from log-grown trees and make shiitake pizza: Sunday, December 14; Sunday, January 18, 2026; Saturday, February 14, 2026 ⛄Winter Handmade washi paper and mitsumata workshop: Sunday, March 8, 2026 ***************************************************************** ※For tour details, please check Morotsuka Navi.

Arao’s food scene is full of variety! Families and friends alike will find plenty of satisfying flavors to enjoy. From specialty sushi, ramen, okonomiyaki, and yakiniku restaurants to stylish cafes and dining spots, Arao also offers many confectioneries and nightlife venues. After a full day of fun, relax at the place you like. ~ Okonomiyaki Gen-chan ~ This restaurant serves both Kansai-style and Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. In Arao, we deliver free for orders of two or more. Genre Okonomiyaki Address 573-3 Miyauchi, Arao City Phone 0968-63-0588 Hours 11:00 – 15:00 (last order 14:30) 17:00 – 21:00 (last order 20:30) Closed Wednesdays (if a public holiday, the next day) Parking 10 spaces

Arao’s gourmet scene offers a rich variety! Families and friends alike will find plenty of flavors to satisfy everyone! Arao’s food scene ranges from specialty sushi, ramen, okonomiyaki, and yakiniku shops to chic cafes and restaurants, plus many confectioneries and nighttime drinking spots. After a full day of fun, enjoy a meal at your favorite place. ~Yamaguchi Unagi Restaurant~ The fragrant, grilled eel is superb. The skin is crisp, and the flesh is tender and fluffy. Genre Sushi and Japanese cuisine Address 6 Ban, Arao City Phone number 0968-62-0020 Business hours 11:30 – 13:30 16:00 – 19:00 Closed Tuesdays Parking 10 spaces Seating capacity 20 seats

Donko-tei A restaurant attached to the village information hub Shiitake Hall 21🍽️ Enjoy Morotsuka’s unique flavors made from seasonal mountain produce😋 *Please note: closed every Wednesday.* Every month on the 7th and 8th we hold the "Morotsuka Naba🍄 Days" event The numbers 7 and 8 read as "naba," giving the event its name, Morotsuka Naba🍄 Days, held monthly! What is naba🍄? In Morotsuka, shiitake mushrooms are called "naba." At Morocco House, Special Products Sales Office, dried shiitake go on sale at discounted prices, and at Donko-tei we offer shiitake-related specials and services✨ If you love shiitake, come to Morotsuka Village on the 7th and 8th!

Hidden Cherry Blossom Spots in Kuwanochi 🌸 Yesterday, Monday, April 7, the weather turned warm with a gentle breeze and clear skies☀️ It was truly a perfect day for hanami🌸🍡 When people think of cherry blossoms in Gokasecho, the Sanga area is especially famous, but Kuwanochi also hides some lesser-known blossom spots😌✨ Photos 1–3 show the cherry trees you see on the left just before you reach the top of the hill where the road from National Route 218 turns toward Yuhinosato Bridge and meets Prefectural Route 8📸 Two large, pale-pink cherry trees stand between tea fields and a vast blue sky stretching as far as the Aso caldera🌸 It’s the kind of serene satoyama landscape that takes your breath away🥹✨ This place seems to be a well-kept secret with many devoted fans🤭💕 Photos 4–5 show the cherry tree by a private house you’ll find right after descending the lane beside the fire station along Prefectural Route 8📸 A magnificent weeping cherry stands out against a carpet of rapeseed flowers at its feet and the bright blue sky behind it. It’s a vivid, springlike scene🤗✨ Beside it, vivid purple magnolia blooms in profusion, making this spot a joyful celebration of spring🤩 Finally, photos 6–8 show the cherry at Koshoji Temple📸 You have to view it from a bit of a distance to take in the whole tree — it’s very large😳✨ The pure white petals contrast beautifully with the red-and-white mottled camellias planted in front. The sight is stunning and powerful; this cherry tree is well worth a visit🙏💡 That brings us to the entrance of Kuwanochi and ends the cherry tree tour for now😌 Please tell us about your favorite cherry trees too✨ A note on the private houses I featured: these are private properties, so when viewing, please do not enter yards or make loud noises. Observe good manners to avoid bothering neighbors🙇‍♀️ Now, rain is forecast for this Thursday — will the blossoms be gone then? 🥲 It’s a little sad, but that fleeting beauty is part of their charm🫶 Cherry-blossom showers are poetic; let’s enjoy them to the fullest while they last🌸

🌸Bloom Update🌸 Cherry blossoms are now at their best across Morotsuka Village. Many cherry trees have opened at Ikenokubo Green Park, making it a perfect day for hanami. Everyone, please come and visit us 😆

[🌸 Night Cherry Blossoms Around Gokasecho 🌙] The weeping cherry trees across town are now in full bloom, and their night-time beauty is not to be missed ✨ So, I’ll share the night cherry blossom photos I took on Sunday, April 6th 📸🤗 Josenji needs no introduction, and the weeping cherry at the Harada residence overwhelms you with its powerful presence 😳 It was a clear day, and the moonlight paired beautifully with the blossoms 🌙 The weeping cherries around Josenji’s bell were a little behind, but they bloomed fully and created an elegant scene 👏 Kijiya has finally reached its peak, and the night cherry blossoms reflected on the pond are stunning 🥹✨ Daytime sakura are wonderful, but a night cherry blossom tour is lovely too 😌🌸 Fewer people are around, so you can enjoy them at a relaxed pace 💡 The light-up schedule is as follows: Josenji’s weeping cherry until Sunday, April 13th, and Kijiya’s weeping cherry until Wednesday, April 16th 😊 Please be quiet when viewing at night, since these trees are near private homes 🤫 Also, dressing in dark colors can make you hard to see from cars at night. Wear noticeable colors like yellow or white or use reflectors to avoid accidents 🙏 These weeping cherries will likely treat us to their beauty for a little while longer 😊 Let’s enjoy them safely and courteously ✨ We have received many photos for our ongoing #Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 campaign on the association’s Instagram account (@gokae_kanko) — thank you so much 😭 Thank you 😭 We’re still accepting entries, so please do submit your photos — seriously, please!! 🙇‍♀️✨ https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/...

Full bloom of flowers 🌸 Today, Sunday, April 6, brought warm sunshine and a distinctly springlike atmosphere 🌞 The town’s flowers are now at their best ✨ The cherry blossoms and camellias at Mikasho Shrine are also at peak, drawing many visitors 😊 Traffic is heavy, so please take care when passing through!

Cherry Blossoms in Flight A week has passed since the bloom was announced in Kyushu, but full bloom still continues in Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture. The petals' centers have begun to turn red, so the blossoms will start falling soon. At Kikuchi Park in Kumuchi, Kikuchi County, roughly 3,000 cherry trees, including Somei-yoshino and yamazakura, are in full bloom. This year, many visitors, including those from overseas, are enjoying hanami. The Kangetsuro Observation Deck inside the park offers a superb view of Kikuchi Park's cherry blossoms and the city of Kikuchi. A promenade runs through the park, forming a tunnel of cherry trees. Even as the petals begin to fall, you can stroll through drifting blossoms. The park also has a “Love Bench,” where you can relax while viewing the cherry trees. A row of cherry trees lines the approach to Kikuchi Shrine, and walking under the canopy offers a beautiful contrast of blossoms against the blue sky. Every year the cherry trees bloom from mid-March through early April. The stage when petals start to fall also makes for wonderful photos and videos, so please come and visit.

Morokko House Specialty Shop This warm, welcoming store along National Route 327 uses plenty of locally sourced timber from the village🌳. The shop sign was recently refreshed✨ When you visit, be sure to take a look at the charming illustration nearby🥰 We deliver safe, reliable mountain produce harvested in Morotsuka Village with heartfelt care💖. This is the place for Morotsuka souvenirs! You can choose the heat level for yuzu kosho and dressings, and, of course, Morotsuka’s signature dried shiitake—plus fresh shiitake are available in season from autumn through winter. Both types are grown on natural logs🍄. Longtime favorites include Nanatsuyama miso, yomogi (mugwort) dumplings, and handmade konnyaku. Quirky shiitake cookies🍪 make a fun souvenir pick. For game-meat fans, frozen venison and wild boar are also on sale! Every Friday we offer a limited-quantity, shop-exclusive shiitake sushi. Seasonal village-grown vegetables🥬 and flowers🌸 are also sold, letting you enjoy the flavors of the season and the unique highland produce of Morotsuka. You’ll also find locally produced shochu from the village’s two sake breweries and handmade crafts by residents. Both are rare items rarely found outside the village.

Cherry Blossom Report: Ontakesan Sakura Road as of April 3, 2025 The cherry trees along the road on Mt. Ontake in Kiyokawamachi, Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture are at their best. They seem to be at their peak now, with some petals starting to fall in the wind. The views are excellent, making it a great drive. Location: Kiyokawamachi, Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture ■■■ 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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Kyushu, Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Bungo Ono City ■■■■■■■■■■■■ https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250403spot-kiyokawa/...

🌸 The weeping cherry trees at Josenji are now in bloom 🌸 In Gokasecho, the cooler-than-usual temperatures delayed the blossoms this year, but the weeping cherry at Josenji has now reached its peak viewing period 🤗✨ (It is not yet fully in bloom!) You should be able to enjoy the beautiful weeping cherry through the beginning of next week 🌸 The trees are also lit up after sunset, so please enjoy the night blossoms as well 👏✨ Please note that the Josenji illumination will end as soon as the peak viewing period passes 🙏 Expect heavy crowds, especially on weekends ⚠️ Follow the directions of traffic attendants around Josenji and take care when arriving by car 🚗 Nearby weeping cherries at the Harada residence and Kijiya are slowly coming into bloom as well, so enjoy them together 🫶 (And please consider entering photos you take in our association’s ongoing photo contest “#Gokase Hanami 2025” on Instagram 😘📸) https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/...

Arao’s gourmet scene offers rich variety! Families and friends alike will find plenty of dishes to leave everyone fully satisfied! From specialty sushi bars, ramen shops, okonomiyaki and yakiniku restaurants to chic cafés and dining venues, plus an abundance of confectioneries and nightlife spots, Arao serves up a diverse culinary lineup. After a day of fun, relax and enjoy your favorite place. ~Moranbon~ This restaurant serves black-haired wagyu beef graded 4 or higher. Their house-made kimchi also comes highly recommended. Genre Yakiniku (grilled meat) Address 65-3 Oshima, Arao City Phone 0968-64-1855 Business hours 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM (Last order 11:00 PM) Closed Wednesdays (except public holidays) Parking 15 spaces Capacity 60 people Official site https://www.arao-yakiniku.com//