23rd Arao Pear Blossom Genki Walk Saturday, March 29, 2025 The season of soft, joyful spring sunlight has arrived. Delicate white blossoms will bloom on Arao’s specialty pear trees. Would you like to walk through Arao’s spring scenery with us? We are pleased to announce an approximately 8-kilometer walking event that starts at Arao City Mall and goes to Mizuno Park and back. After the walk, we will hold a raffle with luxurious prizes, including gift certificates usable at Youme Town and a delivery of 3 kg of Arao pears this autumn. Event Date Saturday, March 29, 2025 (Reiwa 7) 9:00 AM–1:00 PM ※Held in light rain; canceled in severe weather Registration: 8:30 AM–9:30 AM Opening Ceremony: 9:30 AM Start: Mass start immediately after the opening ceremony Final Goal: 12:30 PM Course Start/Goal: Youme Town City Mall Parking Lot A Turnaround: Mizuno Park Eligibility Those who are confident in their physical fitness Elementary school students and younger must be accompanied by a guardian How to Apply ♦ Application Period From 8:00 AM on Saturday, February 1, 2025 (Reiwa 7) to 5:00 PM on Friday, March 14, 2025 (Reiwa 7) ♦ Application Method Online application form Search for “Arao Pear Blossom Genki Walk” Contact Arao Pear Blossom Genki Walk Executive Committee (Arao City Tourism, Culture and Exchange Division, Tourism Promotion Office) TEL 0968-63-1421 Participation Fee 500 yen (elementary school age and older) Competition Rules The event is conducted by walking the designated course. Participants must travel on foot only; bicycles, cars, and similar vehicles are not permitted. ※In the event of injuries to participants, first aid and coverage within the organizer’s insurance will be provided; other liabilities will not be assumed. Organizer: Arao Pear Blossom Genki Walk Executive Committee (Secretariat: Arao City Tourism, Culture and Exchange Division) Supported by: Tamana Agricultural Cooperative (JA Tamana); Arao City Tourism Association (general incorporated association) Cooperation: JA Tamana Arao Pear Section; Youme Town City Mall; Greenland; Yakiniku Nulbon Garden

🌷Manda Pit Spring Festa 2025🌷 Delicious gourmet food, handmade goods, and food trucks! Also featuring “Manda Elementary Kids Guide” collaboration: Challenge from Manda Pit ver.3! For details, please visit the Arao City Tourism Association website 💁‍♀️ ◆Date and Time Sunday, March 9, 2025 10:00–15:00 ※Event will proceed in light rain ◆Location Manda Pit Lawn Plaza, 200-2 Haramanda, Arao City Free admission! ※The paid area of Manda Pit remains charged as usual. ◆Program ・Petting zoo ・Challenge from Manda Pit ver.3 (quiz rally) ・Bubble Time (teambub) ・Gymnastics workshop by acrobat performance team VIVO ・Gourmet and craft market with over 30 vendors ◆Organizer Manda Pit Station @akane.0604k93 #Kumamoto Prefecture #Arao #Event #Spring Festa #Manda Pit #Gourmet #Food truck #Crafts #Handmade #Zoo #Petting zoo #Quiz rally #Challenge from Manda Pit #Tamana #Omuta #Nagasu #World Cultural Heritage #World Heritage

[Thorough Guide to the World Cultural Heritage Site: Manda Pit!] Manda Pit, located in Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture, is one of the coal mine ruins that supported Japan’s modernization. It is registered as a component of the World Cultural Heritage site "Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution" and holds great significance in Japan’s industrial history. Highlights of Manda Pit One of Japan’s Largest Shaft Facilities Manda Pit served as one of the Miike Coal Mine shafts, producing high-quality coal from the Meiji era through the early Showa era and supporting Japan’s modernization. The massive steel headframe symbolizing Meiji- and Taisho-era mining technology and the winding engine house are must-sees. Well-Preserved Industrial Heritage Many mine facilities and equipment used from the Meiji through Showa eras remain at Manda Pit, allowing visitors to feel the atmosphere of the time. The red-brick buildings and the imposing steel-frame structures are especially popular photo spots. Guided Tours to Learn Mine History Specialist-guided tours at Manda Pit explain the history and workings of the mine in detail. You can see the machinery and equipment that were actually used up close. Display of Mine Trains Manda Pit also exhibits the mine trains once used there. You can view the trains used to transport coal and for local transport up close, and running demonstrations are held on the second and fourth Sunday of every month. Recommended Nearby Spots Arao Tidal Flats (a nature-rich tidal flat registered under the Ramsar Convention) Greenland (one of Kyushu’s largest amusement parks) Yotsuyama Shrine (a historic shrine beloved by Arao residents) Coal Industry Science Museum (a science museum about energy from coal) Access Information About 10 minutes by car from JR Arao Station About 1 hour by car from Fukuoka City About 1 hour by car from Kumamoto City #Manda Pit #World Cultural Heritage #Coal Mine Ruins #Kumamoto Sightseeing #Arao City #Historical Exploration #Industrial Heritage #Photo Spot

Discover the charms of Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture! Arao City, located in northern Kumamoto Prefecture on the border with Fukuoka Prefecture, is a captivating destination with the World Cultural Heritage site Manda Pit, beautiful nature, and leisure spots. Through Cool Japan videos, we will bring you plenty of information on Arao City’s sightseeing, gourmet food, and events! Stay tuned! ■■■Sightseeing spots in Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture■■■ Arao offers many places to enjoy history, nature, and leisure. Be sure to visit. ◇Manda Pit (Manda-kō) This coal mine site flourished from the Meiji era through the Showa era and is part of the World Cultural Heritage “Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution.” With brick winding engine rooms and massive steel headframes, you can feel the power and history of the mines. ◇Greenland One of Kyushu’s largest amusement parks, Greenland features more than 70 attractions. It’s a top leisure spot where families and friends can spend the whole day. Fireworks are held several times a year, drawing large crowds. ◇Arao Tidal Flats (Arao Higata) This Ramsar-listed tidal flat is a precious habitat visited by many migratory birds. It’s perfect for birdwatching and leisurely walks. ◇Yotsuyama Shrine Yotsuyama Shrine has watched over Arao’s history and remains beloved by the local community. Many worshippers still visit; a grand torii welcomes visitors to a peaceful shrine atmosphere. ■■■Local specialties and gourmet food of Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture■■■ Arao is full of local culinary delights to savor! ◇Arao Pears Known nationwide for their large size and rich sweetness, Arao pears offer a juicy, crisp texture. The new summer variety, Arao nashi, has attracted attention as a summer fruit. ◇Melon Bread Arao boasts many melon bread shops, including Fukuyama’s Melon Bread and Mankodo’s Melon Bread. ◇Kosen Dago A giant okonomiyaki exceeding 30 cm in diameter, this local favorite is loved by residents and tourists for its size and flavor. ◇Ojiro ware Ojiro ware is a representative Kyushu pottery fired for about 400 years on the northern slopes of Mount Odai. Its glazes blend deep indigo and blue with white slip, earning high artistic praise. ◇Arao Olive Olive cultivation is thriving, and locally produced olive oil is often used as a gift. ■■■Events in Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture■■■ Arao hosts enjoyable events throughout the seasons! ◇Arao Night Market A summer festival held at Manda Pit, the night market gathers many gourmet food trucks and attracts large crowds each year. ◇Nobaru Hachimangu Annual Festival (Nobarasan) Affectionately called “Nobarasan” by locals, this festival preserves a traditional performance known as furyu that has been passed down orally for over 770 years. Furyu is designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, and in 2022 the furyu dance was inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. ◇Yotsuyama Shrine Annual Festival (Kokunzosan) Local elementary and junior high school students perform miko dances such as Urayasu no Mai and Toyosakae no Mai. Climb the 311 steps that lead to the shrine to offer prayers and receive lucky coins, and enjoy the many stalls lining the path to Yotsuyama Shrine. ◇Majaku Fishing Tournament A signature Arao event, this unique tournament involves catching majaku (ghost shrimp) on the tidal flats—an authentic local experience. ◇Manda Pit Spring Festa A spring event held at Manda Pit featuring a variety of attractions. It’s popular with families and visitors. ■■■Hot springs and accommodation in Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture■■■ Arao also offers relaxing hot springs and a range of accommodations. ◇Accommodation in Arao City The city has ample hotels that are convenient for both sightseeing and business. Some properties feature hot springs, perfect for unwinding after a day of travel. We will continue to share Arao City’s attractions through Cool Japan videos! Come and enjoy Arao’s history, nature, and gourmet food! #Kumamoto Prefecture #Arao City #Kumamoto tourism #World Cultural Heritage #Manda Pit #Greenland #Arao pears #Melon bread #coal mine

【❄️Introducing Photos Submitted for Winter Gokase 2025 — Part 6❄️】 Although days have warmed noticeably, mornings and evenings remain bitterly cold in Gokase Town 🥶 We’re grateful that entries for the “#Winter Gokase 2025” campaign on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram have been accumulating, so here are some of the submissions 🙌✨ @donguri223103 @xitiannaiyang4 @goto0619 @irnoarkoa @yamabico_san @satoshi.misaki @thusandleavis @fowafuwarin5 (in no particular order) While many winter scenes come from the Kuraoka area, this time we received a snow photo of Josenji Temple in the Sanko area as well 👏✨ Even within snowy landscapes, the lively atmosphere of the ski resort, the calm winter mood of Kuraoka, and the sacred, quiet presence of Josenji each have their own charm — they’re all wonderful ☺️💫 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- There’s only a short time left before this campaign closes ✨ Please feel free to enter with any small winter photo — we’d love to see your submissions 🤗🎶 How to enter (deadline: Friday, February 28, 2025) Follow Gokase Tourism Association on Instagram (@gokase_kanko) and post with the hashtags “#Winter Gokase 2025” and “#photo location (for example: #Unoko Falls)” 📸 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... ※Snow accumulation and icy roads can be dangerous. Please prioritize safety and take care to avoid accidents when photographing⚠️

[Saturday, March 25] Motorcycle and meat Events "RIDE & MEAT @UBUYAMA PLACE" Held in decided! Admission is free. Kitchen Car, BBQ of meat, motorcycle test ride, etc., it is a day that you can enjoy on the stage of Aso in early Spring. Location: UBUYAMA PLACE (formerly Ubuyama Ranch)　 Date: Saturday, March 25, 9:00-15:00 (In case of rain, it will be postponed to the next day) Admission: Free * Participants will receive a "Kumamon Sticker"! * Manufacturers that can be test-driven ・YAMAHA ・BMW Motorrad ・Aprilia ・Royal Enfield ・MUTT #UBUYAMAPLACE #Spring Aso #Yamanami Highway #After open burning #Ubuyama #Aso is a sacred place for motorcycles #Bikes #Delicious Beef #Spring Events #Kids can also enjoy it #Kitchen Car

~Ubuyama Midwinter Flea Market~ Held in on Sunday, February 23, the midwinter flea market was successfully completed with Many people Stalls and many customers coming. Held in the event for the first time, and I think 😭 there were many points that we could not reach We are very grateful that we were able to Held in the event with good weather thanks to everyone's cooperation. Normally, I should have thanked each and every one of the Stalls, but I would like to take this opportunity to thank you. Ubuyama is one of the most mountainous areas in Aso, There is a where the cold is severe. Many people came to such a place and said, "It was fun," and it became a Minamoto of our energy. Held in Events where we can connect with everyone like this. There is a very much for taking this opportunity to thank all the Stalls and visitors. #Ubuyama #Kumamoto #Aso #Flea Market #Midwinter

Kikuchi’s new landmark featuring the country’s largest dragon deity! Dragon tour and bell-ringing experience at Kogenji Temple Details below https://kikuchikanko.ne.jp/taikenplan...

Mystery-Solving Event at Gion Shrine On Saturday, February 22, a mystery-solving event took place at Gion Shrine in the Kuraoka district 👏 The event was titled “Gion Shrine Real Mystery: ‘As the Gods Say’” 💡 Local high school students from Gokase Secondary School led the planning, collaborating with local company Gokase Entertainment and the Kuraoka Lovers Women’s Group to prepare the event 😳✨ Participants of all ages gathered, and the shrine grounds rang with lively voices 🤗🎶 The puzzles were quite difficult until a spark of insight or a discovery occurred… I tried hard to solve them but couldn’t in the end 🤣 I had to borrow the children’s wisdom, haha As we solved the puzzles, we learned the correct way to worship at Gion Shrine 😯💡 I had no idea about those customs, so the many new discoveries were great fun 🤩 After finishing the puzzles, participants faced a two-part showdown with the gods played by Gokase Secondary School students ⚔️ The first part, “Sengoku Gokase Town,” was a game in which players spent their held points to approach the god; the winner was the one who first knocked the bead off the god’s shoulder with a sword 💪 In the second part, the winning prize from part one, a rope, was formed into a circle on the ground as a ring, and contestants challenged the god in a hand-push sumo match 👐 Both games excited adults and children alike, and smiles filled the event from start to finish 😆 After completing all stages, participants received a “Mystery Completion Certificate,” but looking closely revealed the certificates came in different colors…🤔? It turned out the hand-push sumo in part two mirrored the ceremonial sumo offered to entertain the gods during the Morimaki ritual held at Gion Shrine. Since the tradition holds that “the one who loses to the god is correct,” the completion certificates of those who lost the hand-push sumo gleamed in gold🤣 You could feel the students’ attention to detail throughout the setting, and it was wonderful 🥹✨ At the end, participants and students took a commemorative photo together, and warm tea provided by Yukihoshien was served as a participation prize, bringing the lively, friendly event to a close 😌👏 Seeing Gokase Town come alive through events created by students, local businesses, and community groups working together is truly moving 🥹 We hope the whole town continues to join forces to keep Gokase Town thriving ✨

🌺 The 10th Nobeoka Flower Story 🌺 [Period] Saturday, February 1, 2025 – Sunday, April 6, 2025 The annual spring event “Nobeoka Flower Story” runs from Saturday, February 1 to Sunday, April 6, 2025! This event succeeds the former Tenkaichi Himuka Cherry and Rapeseed Blossom Festival. It was renamed “Nobeoka Flower Story” in 2014 and, though some years were canceled due to the coronavirus, we are grateful to celebrate its 10th anniversary this year. Local residents who wanted to beautify the Gokase River embankment, the event site, began planting Kawazu cherry trees and rapeseed flowers. Their efforts have created a spectacular display of blooms for everyone to enjoy. After a gourmet TV show featured the Kawazu cherry trees at the venue last year, we received many inquiries asking where that magical spot in Nobeoka City is located. [Main Events] 🌿 Hontoji Ei Nichiume (Eini-ume) The weeping plum known as “Eini-ume,” with a trunk older than 240 years, blooms splendidly each year. Fifty white plum trees and five red plum trees color the temple grounds this season.🌺 As of February 20, 2025, they are in full bloom and at their best! 🌸 Konohana Walk 📅 Saturday, February 22 and Sunday, February 23 Three hundred Tenkaichi Himuka cherry trees along the Gokase River embankment and one million rapeseed flowers will spread a carpet of spring color.✨ A special stage will showcase local performing arts and song acts, and the riverbed will host the Nobeoka Delicious Food Market.🌿 Local seafood and mountain produce from Nobeoka City will be on offer, and proud specialty vendors from Kumamoto and Oita prefectures will also attend. The popular annual Mini Sasuke Course Challenge will feature Sasuke Legend led by Makoto Nagano, a native of Nobeoka City. We will give a case of flowers used for the “flower lettering” to the first 200 visitors as a gift.🎁 There will also be seed-dumpling giveaways that kids and adults can enjoy! 💡 WaiWai Flower Story 2025 📅 Thursday, March 20 (national holiday) – Sunday, April 6 At Nobeoka Castle Hill and Shiroyama Park, enjoy Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms and one of Japan’s three great wild camellia groves. Highlights include the WaiWai Gourmet Expo on Saturday, March 22, and the enchanting WaiWai Hanayoi Story, which features beautiful illuminated cherry blossoms—this series of events brings the Nobeoka Flower Story to a close. Enjoy the magical atmosphere created by the night-lit cherry blossoms and the stone walls of Nobeoka Castle.✨ 📍 For bloom updates and event details, please see the “Nobeoka Flower Story 2025 Official Website.” *Images are from last year.* Inquiries ▷▶ 0982-29-2155 (Nobeoka Flower Story Executive Committee)

Kusasenrigahama, Aso City There was ✨️ still a little snow left A grassland with a panoramic view of the volcano at a sightseeing spot in Kumamoto

This year, too, we were able to have a fun Setsubun for mamemaki (bean throwing)! There are many wonderful events in Japan!

Speaking of events in Japan, Setsubun! This year, too, I chewed 😄 on the bean rolls and Eho-maki

Today, Saturday, February 15th, we are holding the monthly Kanagawa Yamato Antique Tools and Folk Crafts Market. This time, the market is selling specialty tankan oranges from Yamato Village in Amami Oshima, Kagoshima Prefecture. According to the Yamato Village website, tankan is a subtropical citrus native to China, born from the natural cross between ponkan and orange and preferring high temperatures. They look simply delicious. For reference, Yamato Village in Kagoshima Prefecture is about 1,500 km from Yamato City in Kanagawa Prefecture, and it would take roughly 250 hours on foot. Thank you for coming all the way here...!

It is the Karatsu Tourism Association that guides sightseeing in Karatsu City, located in the northern part of Saga Prefecture. This time, COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will Broadcasting Tourist Information of Karatsu City. We will broadcast various information such as Specialties, Famous landmarks, and Events, so please follow us.

Ubuyama Snow Mountain Bike 100 Minutes Endurance Ride Party Held in on Saturday, February 8, 2025, a ride party was held to ride mountain bikes across the snow in an outstanding location due to record-breaking heavy snowfall. Course tapes are placed in the venue Ubuyama Place. 50 minutes in the net and 50 minutes in the opposite direction with a break Run on an extraordinary snow course! There are a few people who have completed more than 10 laps in total! Everyone from beginners to experts can enjoy themselves while taking a break in the glass House in the Inside the facility At the end, everyone took a group photo! Why don't you come to the Ubuyama village where you can play while feeling the cool summer grasslands, snowy snow and nature? Events that everyone can enjoy will continue to be planned! Thank you to everyone who participated & Thank you for your hard work.

Shirataki in Winter Look at this 😳! Thanks to the recent cold snap, Shirataki has been cloaked in snow and ice, creating a stunning sight ❄️✨ Pale blue-tinted pillars of snow and ice line up into a breathtaking scene 👏 If possible, we’d love for you to see it with your own eyes! …That said, the path to Shirataki is coated in snow and ice and is extremely dangerous ⚠️ This time, specially trained staff from the tourism association risked their lives to climb up, so please enjoy the photos instead… 🙏🙏🙏 The trail to Shirataki is already hazardous, so we ask for your understanding 😭 Still, nature’s artistry is truly beautiful… I’d grown tired of all the snow, but it turns out it’s not all bad ✨ Let’s stay positive and enjoy ourselves 💪❤️‍🔥

Kyushu, Oita Prefecture, Bungo Ono City On February 8, 2025, the “Bungo Ono Dondo-yaki” was held in Ono Town, Bungo Ono City. A roughly 20-meter-high dondo was decorated with New Year pine ornaments and shimenawa brought by attendees. After the Shinto rites, stage events such as kagura and drum performances entertained a large crowd. After fireworks, the organizing committee and local junior high students prayed for good health and safety before igniting the dondo. The crackling sound and the towering blaze of the dondo were truly spectacular. ■■■ 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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing, gourmet spots, and accommodations in Bungo Ono City ⬇ Bungo Ono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. The Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website can be accessed from the profile link. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Gokase Specialty Center Snow Play The special cold snap that began this Tuesday has left the Gokase Specialty Center covered in snow☃️ Is everyone safe and free from injury or accidents?💦 To lift the spirits of customers who braved these harsh roads to visit the shop, the staff at the Gokase Specialty Center made a Totoro snowman to bring a little brightness and warmth 🥰👏 It’s big and adorable😳✨ While it was being made, children who had come in for lunch kept asking, “Is Totoro finished yet!?” as they eagerly waited🤣💕 Please stop by and take a commemorative photo when you visit📸！ There are also impressive icicles hanging from the shop eaves😮💡They glittered beautifully as they caught the light✨ The tips are sharp, so be careful—they could be dangerous if they fall on your head⚠️ With persistent bad weather making movement difficult, it might be nice to take a moment to enjoy the snow like a child again🤭 Our association’s Instagram photo campaign “Winter in Gokase 2025” is still accepting entries📸✨ Please consider applying during this opportunity🤗 ※See the pinned post on our Instagram profile page for details🙏 https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... Everyone, please stay safe and stay alert for the rest of the day🙇‍♀️

It is a Cluster of trees of Miyama Kirishima around Mt. Eboshi. Every year from around May, the deep mountain Kirishima as far as the eye can see dyes the mountains pink. The sea of flowers as far as the eye can see is truly Cool Japan! Location: Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture

\The second Sunday of every month "Izumi Foothills Experience Day"/ The Izumi City Tourism Specialty Products Association offers regular experience programs on the second Sunday of every month as "Izumi Foothills Experience Day"! At Samurai residences at the foot of Izumi, which is the Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings of the country, you can enjoy the experience of dressing in a kimono yukata and armor, and Boarding to the Izumi Sightseeing Cow Car. The next meeting will be held on Sunday, February 9, 2025. To make a reservation, please Phone the Izumi City Tourism Specialty Products Association listed below. * You can experience it outside of the above schedule, so please contact the Izumi City Tourism Specialty Products Association as soon as possible. Why don't you enjoy a hands-on program with your family and friends at the Samurai residences at the foot of Izumi? We look forward to receiving your application! —————————— ■Application (Izumi City Tourism Specialty Products Association) Phone number: 0996-79-3030 【Held in】2nd Sunday of every month (next time is January 12) 【Held in】10:00~16:00 (11:00~15:00 for sightseeing ox cars) Note: The following will be asked at the time of application. 　(1) Name 　(2) Contact information (Phone number) 　(3) Name of the desired experience program 　(4) Number of participants 　(5) Participation time 　* In the case of a kimono dressing experience, we will also ask you about your height https://www.izumi-navi.jp/events/post-2066/... —————————— #Izumi City, Kagoshima Prefecture #Kagoshima Prefecture #Izumi City #Kagoshima #Izumi #Izumi foothills #Saisho residence #Takezoe residence #Mihara residence #Samurai residences #Izumi Foothills Town Preservation Association #Izumi Sightseeing Cow Car Association #Ox Car #Izumi Navi #izuminavi #izumicity #izumi #kagoshima #South Treasure Chest Kagoshima #Kagosta Glamour #Experience Program

\ [Reception closed] Orenji Olle ×Hikari no Township Accommodation Plan released! ／ On Sunday, February 16, 2025, the Orle Fair "#Orenji Olle 2025" will be Held in at the Izumi Course of Kyushu Olle. Accommodation at an inn with a Hot Spring and a tour to Visiting the site of the cranes taking off early in the morning was on sale. ／ ✨ Due to popular demand, we have prepared an additional plan for accommodation in the special project "#Hikari no Township"! ✨ ＼ Aroma and warmth of the cottage in front of the abundant large. Enjoy a delicious chef's omakase dinner in a luxurious space surrounded by a starry sky on a moonlit night. * The application for participation in Olle's Traditional Japanese straw raincoat has been closed because the capacity has been reached. ★ Hikari no Township Home Page ★ https://hikarinosato-genkou.com// ★ Hikari no Township Instagram★ https://www.instagram.com/hikarino.sato/... ★ Details, Application, Inquiries Izumi City Tourism Specialty Products Association https://izumi-kankou.main.jp/portfolio/stayplan2024_plan9/...

\Hikoki Special Open to the public Aviation Class/ With the cooperation of #Japan Airlines Co., Ltd., which has a cooperation agreement with #Izumi City, we will be selling the "Waku Waku Stay Plan Special Project ~ Hikoki Special Open to the public / Aviation Class" plan. You can see the aircraft in front of you on the tarmac of the airports, which you cannot normally enter, and listen to valuable stories such as cockpit and in-flight guidance by active pilots and cabin attendants. This is a tour where "pair discount" is applied for 2 or more people, so please consider participating with 2 or more people. Of course, you are also welcome to participate alone! We are still accepting reservations, so please take this opportunity to apply! ▼ Exciting Stay Plan Special Project ~ Hikoki Special Open to the public / Aviation Class ~ Monday, February 24, 2025 Tour Details: https://izumi-kankou.main.jp/portfolio/stayplan2024_plan8/...

【❄️ Winter Gokase 2025 Photo Submissions — Part 5 ❄️】 Today we continue to showcase photos submitted to the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram event “#Winter Gokase 2025” 🙌✨ @photo_ay_umi Here is another photo taken at Gokase Highland Ski Resort ⛷️💫 The subject and photographer were perfectly in sync, producing images that look like scenes from a commercial—simply wonderful 🤗💕 Thank you for your submission 🙇‍♀️ ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gokase Town is covered in a snowy landscape this morning ☃️ The wind is howling and it’s really cold 😂 Road conditions are poor, so when you head out to shoot photos please use proper studless winter tires or chains and take care to stay safe and enjoy yourself without overdoing it 🙏 How to enter Follow the Gokase Tourism Association on Instagram (@gokase_kanko) and post with the hashtags “#Winter Gokase 2025” and “#location of the photo (e.g., #Unoko Waterfall)” 📸 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account→https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... ※There is a risk from snow accumulation and icy roads. When taking photos, secure your safety and take care to avoid accidents ⚠️

【❄️Introducing Photos Submitted to Winter Gokase 2025 — Part 4❄️】 Today we present photos submitted to the Winter Gokase 2025 contest, currently running on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account 🫡🎉 @_aymiii_photo @eco9syu_sekiryo @photo_ay_umi *Order is random* From Gokase Highland Ski Resort we received delightful, humorous shots and beautiful images that convey the joy of snow 😆🎶 Thank you for your submissions 😌💕 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gokase Town has seen a touch of snow again since yesterday ❄️ It’s cold and icy roads are worrying, so going out can be daunting, but we also welcome photos taken in your own yard — capture a lovely winter scene and feel free to submit it 🤗✨ <How to Enter> Follow the Gokase Tourism Association on Instagram (@gokase_kanko) and post with the hashtags “#Winter Gokase 2025” and “#Photo location (e.g., #Unoko Falls)” 📸 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account → https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... *There are risks such as heavy snow and icy roads. Please ensure safety and take care to avoid accidents while shooting⚠️

【❄️Winter Gokase 2025 Photo Contest — Featured Entries Vol. 3❄️】 This is the third installment of our series showcasing entries posted to the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram for the “#Winter Gokase 2025” contest.💡 We’re excited to share more photos today!😆👏 @yamabico_san @aiaiaiaiaiaiai77 @conne.hikariconect @gokase_entertainment ※In no particular order Many submissions captured the quiet atmosphere and beautiful snowy scenery.😌❄️ Thank you for your entries.👏 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- We’re delighted to see the number of entries steadily growing.😊✨ Thank you all so much for your continued support.🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️ With about one month left until the entry deadline, please feel free to photograph any winter scenes you love and submit them.🤗💕 How to enter Follow the Gokase Tourism Association on Instagram (@gokase_kanko) and post your photo with the hashtags “#Winter Gokase 2025” and “#photo location (for example: #Unoko Falls)”.📸 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account → https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... ※There may be hazards such as deep snow or icy roads. Please ensure your safety and take care to avoid accidents when photographing.⚠️

Kyushu, Oita Prefecture, Bungoono City event "PRE Junzo" held at Oita Station Plaza Ahead of Junzo, "PRE Junzo" will once again take place this year at Oita Station Plaza. This is a pre-event where you can sample Bungoono’s sake before the main Junzo event. Vendors will offer Bungoono sake and snacks that pair perfectly with it. This year’s program also features stage performances. Why not come to Oita Station Plaza and get a taste of Junzo? Date and Time Saturday, March 1, 2025, 3:00 PM–7:00 PM (last admission 6:30 PM) Location JR Oita Station Plaza Tasting of each brewery’s signature sake We will sell tasting tickets for 2,000 yen on site for up to 500 people. (One cup from each brewery, four cups total) Additional tasting tickets will be available for 500 yen per cup (available only to ticket holders). Stage Performances Taiko drumming, kagura and other performances from Bungoono City are scheduled to appear. Junzo Tickets for Sale We will sell tickets for the main Junzo event at the PRE Junzo venue. Ticket prices ■ Advance sale price: 2,000 yen (tax included) ■ Same-day price: 2,500 yen (tax included) A special zodiac-themed guinomi (sake cup) is also on sale ■ Single price: 880 yen (tax included) (Available for 500 yen to ticket holders) Buying the guinomi together with a Junzo ticket offers better value. Junzo Bus Tour Reservations Open If you prefer a relaxed route, consider the Oita departure and return bus tour. Event Inquiries Commerce and Tourism Division Tel: 0974-22-1117 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 ---------- On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing spots, food and accommodations in Bungoono City⬇✨ Bungo Ono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us 😊 You can find the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website link in our profile. ---------- For details about the main Junzo event, please check the link. https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20241225megurukura/...

" Call for participants! !️ Why don't you take a leisurely walk along Fukushima Road in early Spring! ?️ " Kyushu Olle "Matsuura-Fukushima Course" 2nd Anniversary Events will be Held in on Saturday, March 1 This time, it will be held in at the same time as the "50th Fukushima Camellia Japonica Festival" where Matsuura City's flower "Camellia japonica" will be exhibited and sold Why don't you take your time Appreciation the Camellia japonica that blooms on the roadside and in the wild mountains and the Camellia japonica that has been carefully nurtured? The application capacity is 250 people ❗️ on a first-come, first-served basis, and we will close as soon as the capacity is reached, so please 🤗 apply as soon as possible. To apply, search "Matsukoi" from the Internet on your smartphone, and open "Matsuura's Season" on Matsukoi_Matsuura City's Tourist Information site -Matsuura no Umi, Hito, Machi ni Koi-, and you will There are an article on Olle, so please apply from there Light snacks and drinks handmade by the locals After the goal, of course, we are waiting for you with the "hospitality" of fried horse mackerel! !️ Please see the flyer for details #Matsukoi #Matsuura City, Nagasaki, Matsuura City #Kyushu Olle Matsuura Fukushima Course #Fukushima Camellia japonica Festival #Holy land of Fried Horse Mackerel Matsuura #Matsuura, the land of the end of the original era

Kyushu, Oita Prefecture, Bungo Ono City event [The 32nd Bungo Ono Dondo-yaki Festival] The 32nd Bungo Ono Dondo-yaki Festival will take place in Ono Town, Bungo Ono City. The sight of the roughly 20-meter-tall “dondo” built from bamboo rising up in flames is spectacular. Pray for good health and a prosperous year at the dondo-yaki. [Date and Time] Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 16:30 (held light rain or shine) [Location] Ono General Sports Park (Parking Lot No. 2), Bungo Ono City [Admission] Free [Parking] Available [Schedule] 16:30 – 17:00 Opening ceremony 17:00 – 17:30 Shinto ritual 17:30 – 19:00 Shonai Children’s Kagura (Yufu City) 19:00 – 19:40 Yufuin Genryu Taiko (Yufu City) 19:40 – 19:45 Ikushima Fireworks (Bungo Ono City) 19:45 – 20:00 Dondo fire-lighting ceremony 20:00 – Dondo ignition 21:00 – Closing ceremony ※Please bring New Year’s shimekazari decorations and omamori charms to the venue between 9:00 and 17:00 on the day of the event. We cannot accept items in advance. [Event Inquiries] Ono Town Dondo-yaki Executive Committee (Bungo Ono City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Youth Division, Ono Branch) Phone: 0974-34-2234 ■■■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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing spots, food, and accommodations in Bungo Ono City⬇ Bungo Ono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can find the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website link in our profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■ For details, please see the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website. https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250123dondoyaki/...

[❄️ Introducing Photos Submitted to Winter Gokase 2025 — Part 2 ❄️] Today we continue showcasing photos submitted to the Winter Gokase 2025 campaign, currently hosted on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account 🤩🎉 @moko.m This entry, like the others, captures everyday winter life in Gokase Town. Each warm photo seems to carry the cheerful voices of children, and viewing them brings joy 🥰✨ Thank you for your submission 👏 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- We have more submissions to share, so we’ll introduce them little by little 🤗 When submitting, a few people posted using the kanji “五ヶ瀬” for the title “Winter Gokase 2025.” We wondered if those were intended as entries, but please be careful when submitting in the future ⚠️ Use the hiragana “ごかせ”! The correct title is “Winter Gokase 2025” written as 「冬のGokase 2025」!! How to enter (Submission period — through February 28) Follow the Gokase Tourism Association on Instagram (@gokase_kanko), and post with the hashtags “#冬のごかせ2025” and a tag for the photo location (for example: #Unoko Falls) along with your photo 📸 ※Snow and icy roads can be hazardous. Ensure safety when shooting and take care to avoid accidents ⚠️