【Ubuyama Camera Hiwa】2025 Photo Contest Call for Applications In 2025, we will start accepting applications for the photo contest of Ubuyama Village. From this year, we will be recruiting themes for the seasons of Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter! The theme of the first winter season is "Ubuyama Winter Photo 2025" "Snow, Water Source, Cow" We are waiting for you to post the scenery in the Village that can only be seen at this time, such as the snowfield land and the scenery of open burning. Below are the details of this recruitment. 【Application Period】 Wednesday, January 1, 2025 ~ Monday, March 31, 2025 【Theme】 "Ubuyama Winter Photo 2025" We are looking for photos focusing on winter in Ubuyama villages, such as snowfields, water sources, open burning landscapes, and red cows in Makino, by posting them on Instagram. [Shooting location] Ubuyama Village, Aso District, Kumamoto [Award-winning works] ●1 Grand Prize ●3 Prize Winners The award will be announced by our Village Account, and then it will be used for various advertising media. [How to enter] (1) Taking photos in the Ubuyama village according to the theme of "Ubuyama Winter Photo 2025" (2) #Ubuyama Winter Photo 2025 #Name of shooting Spot Posted with two hashtags ■ Please be sure to check the application guidelines and precautions before applying. ■ Winners will be contacted by DM, so please follow the official Account. ■ Application Guidelines and Precautions ・Please be sure to post photos taken by yourself or for which you own the copyright. ・If there is a person in the photo, please obtain permission before posting. ・ The copyright and portrait rights of the submitted works belong to the Ubuyama Village Tourism Association, and may be used free of charge on this site or as PR for Ubuyama Village. ・ Subject photos taken in Ubuyama Village in 2025. ・Please do not take photographs in restricted areas. ・Photographs taken in the restricted area will not be Subject of the award. ・If multiple photos are posted in one publication, the first photo will be considered as an entry. ・ One person can apply as many times as you like. ■Announcement of results ◎ It is scheduled for the end of April 2025. ◎ After the application period ends, the winners will be decided after a strict screening. ◎ Use Instagram's direct message function to contact you, so please be sure to follow the official Account. ◎ If you do not consent to the use of the image within one week after contacting us, you will not be eligible for the award. ◎ Thereare the right to lose the right if the winner is found to have cheated after winning. #Ubuyama Camera Hiwa #Ubuyama Winter Photo 2025 #Ubuyama #Aso District #Kumamoto

❄️ Introducing Photos Submitted to Winter Gokase 2025 — Part 1 ❄️ We are showcasing photos submitted to the Winter Gokase 2025 contest, currently running on the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account 🤩🎉 @goto0619 @thusandleavis *Order is not indicative of ranking* These shots capture everyday moments in wintertime Gokase Town with a nostalgic feel 😌✨ Thank you for your submissions!! ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Over the past few days, daytime temperatures in Gokase Town have often felt mild ☀️ But it is still winter! In the mornings frost has turned gardens completely white. Here are places that froze over. You can even see animal tracks in the remaining snow! Please feel free to share any simple winter discoveries with us in the same easygoing spirit — we look forward to your entries!!! How to Enter (Submission Period through February 28) Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account (@gokase_kanko) and post with the hashtags "Winter Gokase 2025" and the name of the shooting location (for example: Uno no Ko Falls) along with your photo 📸 ※Snow accumulation and icy roads can be dangerous. When taking photos, please ensure your safety and take care to avoid accidents ⚠️

Event information for Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu Bungo Ono City Stamp Rally Tour of Five Roadside Stations A stamp rally that takes you around the five roadside stations in Bungo Ono City will be held. Visit the five roadside stations and make purchases of 300 yen or more to collect stamps for a chance to win local specialties from the roadside stations. A total of 125 winners will be selected. Give it a try and aim for these wonderful prizes! Event period Saturday, January 18, 2025 – Sunday, March 2, 2025 How to apply Pick up the stamp rally flyer (stamp sheet) at each roadside station. You will receive one stamp for each purchase of 300 yen or more. Visit each roadside station to collect stamps. When you have stamps from all five stations, cut out the detachable section on the back, fill in the required information, and drop it into the box set up at each station. Participating locations Roadside Station Mie Roadside Station Kiyokawa Roadside Station Harajiri Falls Roadside Station Asaji Roadside Station Oono Prizes Prize A: Roadside station specialty set worth 5,000 yen — 30 winners Prize B: Roadside station specialty set worth 3,000 yen — 45 winners Prize C: Roadside station specialty set worth 2,000 yen — 50 winners Other notes If a prize cannot be delivered because the recipient is absent for an extended period after delivery, the prize will be forfeited. Winners will be notified by shipment of their prize. Shipments are scheduled for late March 2025. Inquiries Bungo Ono City Five Roadside Stations Stamp Rally Office (located in Roadside Station Asaji) Phone: 0974-64-1210 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 Instagram On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing spots, gourmet picks, and accommodations in Bungo Ono City. Bungo Ono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can access the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website from the profile link. For more details, please see the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website. https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250117mitinoeki/...

Shichizo Shochu Photo Contest Last year, the Minami Satsuma Shichizo Shochu Photo Contest 2024 was Held in held from August 16 to November 30, 2024 sponsored by the Nanazo Council for the Promotion of Minami Satsuma Local Shochu (Shichizo Council). Representative of each brewery gathered the other day and held a judging meeting! Thank you very much for your application There is a many! The theme is free. We received many entries based on Shichizo products, cuisine, and scenery, spending time with family and friends, the scenery of Minami Satsuma and shochu, etc.! Everyone has wonderful photos, and it's hard to put them down... It was talked about! The winners will receive a DM from the Shichizo Council! Fun for great prizes! @7kura373 #Uto Sake Brewery #Honbo Sake Brewery #Fukiage Shochu #Mansei Sake Brewery #Higashi Shuzo #Sakurai Shuzo #Rikasa of the Du clan #Shichizo Shochu #Minamisatsuma City #Minami Satsuma #Kagoshima #Minami Satsuma Nanazo Photocon #Minami Satsuma Shichizo Photocon 2024

Ubuyama Midwinter Flea Market 2025 Held in a "Midwinter Flea Market" in Ubuyama this winter. Why don't you go out for a while in the cold winter? It will be Held in in an indoor facilities, so you can Fun with children with peace of mind. Stalls ranging from restaurants to miscellaneous goods are waiting for your visit. ●Held in period: Sunday, February 23, 2025 ●Time: 11:00~15:00 ●Location: Ubuyama indoor multipurpose facilities 　　　　　 Ubuyama Dairi 657-2 ◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆ Stalls are currently being recruited for rave reviews. I'm anxious because it's my first time participating in a flea market! Worry! Use such people will provide full support so that you can use it with peace of mind. Stalls, if you would like to open a store, please apply by QR code in the image or by Phone TEL：0967-25-2200 ◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆ Stalls fee is not available this time. Stalls, please note that you will need to prepare your own tables and other equipment. Events #Handmade #Food and beverage outlets #Winter #Handmade #Accessories #Kumamoto #Second-hand clothing #Markets #Miscellaneous goods #Food & Drink #Kitchen Car #Held in #Stalls

This is the Saikai City Tourism Association in Nagasaki Prefecture. Here is an introduction to Saikai Bridge, which links Saikai City and Hariō in Sasebo City. The cold days continue, but from around February the Kawazu cherry blossoms begin, followed by Somei-yoshino at the end of March, offering stunning scenery to enjoy! "Nationally Designated Important Cultural Property: Saikai Bridge" This red bridge connects Inoura-go in Seihi, Saikai City, Nagasaki Prefecture, with Hario Higashi-machi in Sasebo City. Saikai Bridge was built across the Inoura Seto, one of Japan’s three great tidal currents, in October 1955 (Showa 30) to link Sasebo City and the Nishisonogi Peninsula (Saikai City). The bridge has a total length of 316 m and stands 42 m above the sea surface. At the time, Saikai Bridge was the third largest bridge of its type in the world and the largest in Asia. It took four years from the start of construction to completion, accomplished with Japan’s highest engineering standards. Because whirlpools up to 10 m in diameter form in Inoura Seto, it was impossible to erect piers in the sea during construction. A precision method called the cantilevered launching suspension method was used, assembling from both shores and closing at the center. On December 23, 2020 (Reiwa 2), it became the first postwar-built bridge designated as a National Important Cultural Property. "Saikai Bridge Park" A 37 ha sightseeing park surrounding Saikai Bridge. The park offers plenty of play equipment such as an athletic course and a sledding slope, making it popular with families. It’s also great for picnics with a packed lunch. In spring, you can enjoy views of about 1,000 cherry trees with Saikai Bridge in the background. "New Saikai Bridge" A light-blue bridge completed in 2006 (Heisei 18) as part of the toll Pearl Line. The main span is 300 m, the inlet section is 320 m, and the total length is 620 m. A promenade runs beneath the road, and observation windows let you peer down at the sea. The view from directly above during the spring spring tide in March, when whirlpools occur, is spectacular! Both the Saikai and Sasebo sides offer parking lots large enough for coach buses and equipped with restrooms. Please come and visit Saikai City in Nagasaki Prefecture.

Takaharacho 90th Anniversary Branding Project Okukirishima Onsen-kyo—What a Nice Bath! Ground Golf Tournament ⛳️ Now Accepting Participants!! Date: Sunday, February 23, 2025 Time: Registration 8:00 AM—Opening Ceremony 8:30 AM—Competition Begins 9:00 AM Eligibility: Residents and non-residents (junior high school students and older) Participation Fee: 200 yen per person Capacity: 200 participants (All entrants receive a bathing voucher redeemable at local facilities) A free shuttle bus to the onsen will be available on the day. Application Deadline: Friday, January 31, 2025 Venue: Takaharu Town General Sports Park 709-9 Nishifumoto, Takaharu, Nishimorokata District, Miyazaki 889-4412 ————————About Applications———————— You may fill in the application section on the back of the flyer and submit it in person at the Takaharu Town Tourism Association (inside Takaharu Station). Applications are also accepted by fax, mail, or via the web form links below. [Flyer front] http://www.takaharu-tourism.jp/wp.../uploads/2025/01/1.jpg... [Flyer back] http://www.takaharu-tourism.jp/.../2025/01/image11.jpeg... [Google Application Form] https://docs.google.com/.../1jcXJI-P-N-niYcStgJ05N.../edi... ————————Application Details———————— Teams should consist mainly of 4 to 6 players. Three-player teams are allowed, but they may be combined with others to form mixed teams. Contact Information Organizer: Takaharu Town Tourism Association TEL: 0984-42-4560 Cooperative Organizer: Okukirishima Onsen-kyo Ryokan Association Managed by: Takaharu Town Ground Golf Association

Okukirishima Onsen-kyo Presents ♨️ The Birthplace of Japan Dash Through Takaharacho’s Sano Shrine! Recruiting Participants 🎉 This event, held as part of the town’s 90th anniversary celebrations, returns for its second year following last year’s event! This year, every participant receives a day-use bathing ticket redeemable at a local onsen facility as a gift 🎁 Limited to 300 people, with perks such as complimentary hot cocoa!! Who will claim the title of this year’s lucky man or lucky woman of fortune!? 🤩 We hope you’ll apply! ⭐︎Date: Tuesday, February 11, 2025 (National Holiday) ⭐︎Participation Fee: Free ⭐︎Venue: Sano Shrine ⛩️ (South Approach) Those who reserved should check in by 8:20 AM on the day ⭐︎Application Deadline: Thursday, February 6, 2025 ⭐︎How to Apply: Fill out the application form on the back of the flyer and send it by FAX or email (please include name, gender, and grade). Preschool children and elementary school students must be accompanied by a guardian. If applying online, please use the application form below. [Application Form] https://fsmk.co/t/HRngF4-syzaow?openExternalBrowser=1... [Divisions] ※Those who have previously won the same division may enter but are not eligible for the title of lucky man or lucky woman. Elementary School Grades 1–3 (Boys’ Division) (approx. 300 m) Elementary School Grades 1–3 (Girls’ Division) (approx. 300 m) Elementary School Grades 4–6 (Boys’ Division) (approx. 300 m) Elementary School Grades 4–6 (Girls’ Division) (approx. 300 m) Adult Division (Men’s) (approx. 300 m) Adult Division (Women’s) (approx. 300 m) A total of six divisions. [Elementary Divisions] 300 m 1st Prize: Bookstore Gift Card ¥5,000 2nd Prize: Bookstore Gift Card ¥3,000 3rd Prize: Bookstore Gift Card ¥1,000 [Adult Divisions] 300 m 1st Prize: Gift Certificate ¥30,000 2nd Prize: Gift Certificate ¥20,000 3rd Prize: Gift Certificate ¥10,000 For details, please see the website (flyer) ☺️✨ https://fsmk.co/t/XexOJk-syzaow?openExternalBrowser=1... ⭐︎On the day, the Kigensai ceremony for National Foundation Day will be held at Sano Shrine at 10:00 AM, with the formal ceremony scheduled to begin at 10:30 AM. Please join us 😊✨

KKB Hometown CM Grand Prize and Video Award 2024 "My hometown, both now and in the future" Hello! This is S from the Minamisatsuma City Tourism Association "Kiyatamonse" staff! The results of the Hometown CM and Video Awards 2024 held in November last year have been announced! The result is... Unfortunately, it was a 🥹 participation prize I was very frustrated and disappointed because I finished it with the cooperation of many people after several months of worrying, but I did my best! We received warm words from the Locals and had a valuable experience! I would be happy if you could take a look and give us your impressions! ☺️ I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. M for the model, the Digital Public Relations Division and the Commerce, Industry and Fisheries Division of the Minamisatsuma City Office (especially Mr. Digital T and Mr. U for their help), the Kasasa Museum of Art for gracious permission to shoot, everyone involved in the fishing port, Mr. M for the wonderful drone photography, and everyone involved! There is a really! You can also watch other award-winning works on the KKB Hometown CM and Video Awards 2024 Home page and YOUTUBE videos, so please take a look ✨ * Publication of videos and links cannot be added, so photos are Publication. For the actual commercial videos, we apologize for the inconvenience, but we would appreciate it if you could search for "KKB Hometown CM Award". #Minamisatsuma City Tourism Association #Kiyata Monse Minami Satsuma #Minamisatsuma City #Kagoshima #kagoshima #Hometown CM Grand Prize #Hometown CM Video Award

Welcome to Gokase Town in winter ✨ Answer our survey and get local specialties 💪 (Response deadline: Friday, February 28 ⚠️) A notice from Gokase Entertainment Co., Ltd. 💡 Right now, visitors to Gokase Town who complete a short survey will be entered into a drawing. Fifteen winners will receive local specialties from Gokase Town 🤩✨ This survey aims to make Gokase Town an even more attractive tourist destination, so we would greatly appreciate your cooperation 🤗 Here’s your chance to win a set of wine and kama-iri tea (pan-roasted tea) 💪❤️‍🔥 The response deadline is Friday, February 28 ⚠️ When you stop by Gokase Town, we look forward to your visit 🥺🙏

While thinking about Kanshin, we will walk around the superb view of the Minami Satsuma Kaido in early Spring. Jianzhen, the Chinese nobleman who brought Buddhist teachings and precepts to Japan, sailed six times to get to Japan and arrived at Minamisatsuma City Botsu, which was once called Japan Mitsu. Held in mainly in Botsu, it is a walking tournament named after Kazuhisa Kanshin. Thinking about the scenery that Kanshin stared at, we walk while enjoying the superb view of the Minami Satsuma Kaido in early Spring. Local people are full of warm and delicious hospitality. Basic Information Held in date: February 22 Held in time 8:00~Registration starts, Opening ceremony 8:45, Departure 9:00 Held in (1) Bozu Seascape Course Approx. 16km (Minamisatsuma City Bozu Gakuen Ground Start) (2) Oura Superb View Kamegaoka Course Approx. 12km (Oura Elderly Welfare Center Shiba Square start) Capacity (1) Bozu Seascape Course: First 600 people (2) Oura Superb View Kamegaoka Course First 500 people Application 2025 (Reiwa 7) January 15 9:00 ~ Reception starts 2025 (Reiwa 7) January 31 Deadline To apply, please visit the Minamisatsuma City Tourism Association Home page. * Early reception may end due to first-come, first-served basis. fee 1 don (900 ml) (20 years old and over) 3500 yen Adults and high school students: 1500 yen Junior high and elementary school students: 300 yen Contact us Minami Satsuma Kaido Kanshin Road Walking Executive Committee 0993-53-2111

【Ubuyama Mountain Bike 100 Minute Endurance Ride Party】 Held in: Saturday, February 8, 2025 Set in the vast grasslands adjacent to "UBUYAMA PLACE (formerly Ubuyama Ranch)" located on the mountain foothills of the Kitagai Ring Mountains, we will Held in an endurance race-style Events in which mountain bikes are used to compete for how many lap Course s of about 1,500 meters per lap can be completed within a set time (100 minutes in total)! You can participate solo or in pairs, and in addition to normal MTBs for rental, electrically assisted cars are also available, so even those who do not have a rotating Car can participate! In addition, we also have a kids' MTB (corresponding height 122 cm to 150 cm), so we are looking forward to your entry as a parent-child team! The pit space is a large glass-walled facilities, with chairs and tables inside, so you can take a comfortable break while surviving the wind and snow. The glass-walled facilities are open to those who do not participate in the race, so it's good to cheer with your family! Of course, you don't have to keep running all the time in time. If you're tired, grab a cup of warm coffee and take a break. Enjoy a Meals at UBUYAMA PLACE with the team and the whole family who came to support us. You can bring your own ingredients, but we plan to sell Meals that will keep you warm at the venue. [Endurance ride method] ・100-minute endurance ride The number of laps that can be completed within the 100-minute time limit is tallied while taking turns solo (1 person) or pair (2 people) on a lap course of about 1,500 meters per lap. (The purpose is not to compete for speed.) ） You don't have to keep running all the time. Enjoy lunch and tea time with the whole team. The first 50 minutes will be switched to the right lap and the second 50 minutes will be switched to the left lap, so you will be able to enjoy the ride without getting bored until the end! In addition, there will be a 20-minute break (Course Maintenance) between the first and second halves, so take a break during this time to rest and replenish your energy and prepare for the second half. * One rental bike per team, one for Adult and one for children. * We also offer free rental of electric MTBs. Each team can use the electric MTB provided by the tournament for up to two laps, so please use it to conserve your physical strength. (Exclusive rentals are also available, and additional Fees will be charged separately) 〜Recruitment Overview〜 【Events Overview】 Held in: Saturday, February 8, 2025 Fee: Solo Adult: ¥ 3,000 (12-18 years old ¥2,000) Pairs Division 1 Team ¥5,000 Participation fee includes: Race participation fee, Facilities Use fee (toilet, etc.) fee, shared electric MTB, insurance, consumption tax Separately required: If you wish to rent lunch fee, drink fee, occupancy ~ Normal MTB (1,000 / unit) Electric motorcycle (2,000 yen / unit) Number of applicants: 50 Minimum number of participants: 10 [Time Schedule] 9:00-10:00 Entry reception / rental reception (former Ubuyama Ranch BBQ facilities), Course test run 10:00-10:15 Opening Ceremony and Competition Briefing 10:30-11:20 Ride start, endurance ride (first 50 minutes clockwise) 11:20~11:40 General Break and Course Maintenance 11:40-12:30 Ride restart, endurance ride (counter-clockwise for the second 50 minutes) 12:30-12:40 End of ride 12:40-13:00 Announcement of results, commemorative photo, return of rental 13:00 Closing and ending of Events 【Reception and meeting place】 UBUYAMA PLACE Car (formerly Ubuyama Ranch) Website> Kumamoto Prefecture Aso District Ubuyama Yamaga 2100-3　 〜How to Pay the Participation Fee〜 Please pay in cash on the day. 〜Cancellation Policy〜 ・ Events cancellation regulations The Aso Kuju Cycle Tour is a rain or shine event for all plans. However, if it is expected that it will be difficult to run safely due to bad weather the day before Held in tour, the Events will be canceled. In that case, we will contact you by e-mail by 20 o'clock the day before. On the day of Events, the Events may be canceled due to sudden changes in the weather. ・ About cancellation If you wish to cancel, please contact us at least 3 days before the scheduled date and no cancellation Fee will be charged. In case of cancellation after 3 days, the following cancellation fee will be charged. About cancellation fee ◇ If you cancel at least 3 days before the date of use: No cancellation fee will be charged ◇ If you cancel after the final confirmation email is delivered, or if you do not come on the day: 100% of the Fee will be charged Fee will not be charged in the following cases. 1 When the Events Held in is canceled due to bad weather, etc. * Please note that refunds will not be possible in the case of cancellation in the middle. 2 Held in for public reasons such as preventing the spread of coronavirus infection.

【Ubuyama Horse Play Yang Natabokko】 The only horseback riding facility in the Village where you can trek through the Nature of Aso on horseback. Even if you are a beginner in horseback riding, an experienced couple will carefully guide you, so you will be able to ride in a short time of practice. Accommodation in Ubuyama is limited to accommodation, and it is also possible to have a horse pick you up at the inn. Address: 346-2 Tajiri, Ubuyama Village Car parking lot: Yes Fee, etc.: 1,000 yen for 10 minutes ~ Phone: 090-6965-6373

【UBUYAMA PLACE】 UBUYAMA PLACE is a Spot where you can see the Kuju mountain range, Mt. Aso Mountain, and Mt. Soma, surrounded by majestic grasslands. Park golf is Inside the facility There is a everyone from Adult to children can enjoy it to the fullest. At the café restaurant, you can enjoy wood-fired pizza made with fresh cheese produced in the attached facilities and Authentic Italian cuisine using plenty of local vegetables. The shop also sells products made from Brown Swiss dairy cows. Address: Ubuyama Yamaga 2100-3 Car parking lot: about 250 cars Business hours: 9:00 a.m. ~ 5:00 p.m. (Park Golf) Cafe restaurant business hours / 8:00~20:00 Phone: 0967-25-4010

【Fan Terraced Rice Fields】 Ogi Terraced Rice Fields have been selected as one of the 100 best rice terraces in Japan and one of the 100 best Rice growers. It is made by clearing the eroded land in the mountains, and is made in a contour shape by taking advantage of the fan-shaped terrain. Fascination by the scenery of the 16 rice terraces and 3 Japanese cedars attracts many photographers. * The surrounding area is private land and cattle are grazing. The road is narrow and there is no Car parking space, so please observe manners when visiting or taking pictures. Address: Kumamoto Prefecture Aso District Ubuyama Ubuyama 2621-8

[Higotai Park] In Higotai Park, seasonal flowers bloom from Spring to autumn, such as Harlindou in Spring, Higotai in Summer, and Cosmos in Autumn. At the visitor center at the entrance to the park, you can learn about the flowers of the Highlands. Address: 771 Tajiri, Ubuyama Village, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture Car parking: 50 cars Fee: Adults 400 yen, Elementary and junior high school students 250 yen (free in winter) Business hours:9:00~17:00 Phone: 0967-25-2777

【Yamabuki Water Source】 "Yamabuki Water source" has been selected as a one of the 100 best water sources in Kumamoto Prefecture. As much as 30 tons of water gushes out every minute, and the water temperature is 13.5 degrees Celsius. It takes about 10 minutes to walk from the Car parking lot. Standing at a water source surrounded by virgin forests, time seems to have stopped. It is a hidden famous water of Ubuyama. Address: Kumamoto Prefecture Aso District Ubuyama Ubuyama Car parking: 15 cars Fee, etc.: Free to open * Since it is used as drinking water, please do not put your hands and feet in the Water source or put equipment such as cameras in it.

【Ikeyama Spring】 Selected as a one of the 100 best water sources by the Ministry of the Environment, the Ikeyama Spring boasts a constant temperature of 13.5°C and an abundant spring water of 30 tons per minute. The area is surrounded by huge trees and trees that are said to be more than 200 years old, and the spring water becomes the Tamarai River, joins the Ono River, and flows into Beppu Bay in the distance. Representative of Kumamoto's delicious water. Address: 14-1 Tajiri, Ubuyama Village, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture Car parking: 30 cars Fee, etc.: Free to open * Since it is used as drinking water, please do not put your hands and feet in the Water source or put equipment such as cameras in it.

【Ski Resort Photos】 Today in Gokase the sky is overcast☁️ and it’s been raining and snowing since morning, so it’s still cold🥶 By the way, Gokase Highland Ski Resort finally opened the Paradise Course for a 1,000 m run the other day⛷️✨ Unfortunately, only a 500 m run is available right now due to a lift malfunction, but repair work is underway, so please wait for its reopening 🥹🙏 I took some photos at the ski resort the other day, so I’ll share them here📸💫 The blue sky and pure white rime are incredibly beautiful😳 This season the ski resort’s conditions are excellent compared with usual years, so please come and visit Gokase Highland Ski Resort 🤗 Also, the Gokase Tourism Association is collecting winter photos of Gokase as “Winter in Gokase 2025” on its Instagram account❄️ Photos of the ski resort are welcome, and any snapshots of winter scenes are fine📸 For details, please see the pinned post on our profile🙏 We look forward to many submissions ✨

Gokase Highland Ski Resort I climbed up to Gokase Highland Ski Resort today to shoot some material📸❄️ At 7:00 this morning the temperature was a whopping -14°C🤣 It was such an odd kind of cold that it made me laugh🤷‍♀️ lol That said, the slopes were in perfect condition ⛷️✨ The wind was light and the snow was powdery and dry 🤩 Local junior high students were here today as part of their school activities, and they were happily enjoying skiing and snowboarding 🥰 The view of the ski area under the blue sky is truly beautiful 🥹✨ It feels like another world, and staring at it makes you feel drawn in…😳 You can see the distant mountains stretching far away, and the view from Gokase Highland Ski Resort is exceptional 👏❗ Tomorrow, Saturday, January 11th, at 10:00 the long-awaited Paradise Course 1,000 m run finally opens 🤩 Can’t wait 💪 The Gokase Tourism Association is currently running the "Winter Gokase 2025" campaign on their Instagram account and collecting winter photos from the area 🤗 There are prizes, so when you visit the ski resort or travel there, please take lots of winter photos within safe limits and enter the contest 🙏✨ For details, see the post pinned to the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram profile page 💡

[🍁 Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024 🍁 Results Announcement] Thank you for waiting‼️ Here are the results of “Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024” 🥳🎉 This time, the winners were chosen by votes from followers of the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account 👏✨ Thank you to everyone who voted 🙇‍♀️💕 Now, let’s announce the results👇👇👇 [🥇 Gold Prize] Unoko Falls Instagram: @san.shimako.1105 (second photo) [🥈 Silver Prize] Josenji Temple Instagram: @gokase_pan (third photo) [🥉 Bronze Prize] Shirataki Instagram: @niidome2110 (fourth photo) Unoko Falls, Josenji Temple, and Shirataki… these representative Gokase autumn-leaf spots each took home an award 👏❗ Each entry highlighted the beauty of the scenery and revealed expressions different from usual—truly wonderful work 🥹✨ Congratulations to all the winners㊗️🥳🎉 And to everyone who submitted entries, voted, and took part—thank you so much😭❤️‍🔥 The campaign is still ongoing as “Winter in Gokase 2025,” so please join us 🥰 We appreciate your participation 💫

With winter approaching, in preparation for the cherry blossoms and rape blossoms of Spring, the Shirakimine Highlands is now quietly resting. Across the Ariake Sea, hazy in the distance is Mt. Unzen. I have an empty Highlands all to myself. Welcome to the special seats!

Kyushu, Oita Prefecture’s Bungo Ono City event information ■■ Bungo Ono Megurukura 2025 On March 16, 2025, Bungo Ono Megurukura 2025 celebrates its event. Why not tour four sake breweries in Bungo Ono City and savor fine sake and Bungo Ono gourmet treats? Date and Time Sunday, March 16, 2025, 9:30 AM–3:30 PM Megurukura Tickets Now on Sale Advance sale price: 2,000 yen (tax included) Same-day price: 2,500 yen (tax included) Special zodiac-themed sake cup also on sale Single item price: 880 yen (tax included) (Ticket holders can buy one for 500 yen) Buying the sake cup together with a Megurukura ticket is a great deal. Ticket Sales Locations Hamajima Sake Brewery TEL 0974-42-2216 Kira Sake Brewery TEL 0974-42-2205 Muretsuru Sake Brewery TEL 0974-72-0101 Fujii Brewing TEL 0974-37-2016 Bungo Ono City Tourism Association TEL 0974-27-4215 Win a Prize by Lottery If you enter with a Megurukura ticket stamped by all four breweries, you will be entered into a prize drawing. How to apply: Fill in the required information on the application field on the back of your Megurukura ticket and put it in a designated collection box. Collection boxes are available at each brewery and at Mie-machi Station. Winners will be notified by shipping the prize. Shuttle Bus Information Shuttle buses will run on the day of Megurukura. You need a Megurukura ticket to board the shuttle bus. Shuttle buses running between JR Mie-machi Station and the venues operate at intervals of about 30–40 minutes. You may board or disembark at any venue. ※When boarding, please show your ticket to the staff. Inquiries about the Megurukura event Bungo Ono City Hall, Commerce and Tourism Division TEL 0974-22-1117 ■■ Bungo Ono Megurukura Bungo Ono City is home to two sake breweries and two shochu distilleries. Megurukura is the day when all four breweries in Bungo Ono City welcome visitors together. It’s a special day to enjoy delicious drinks and snacks while touring the breweries and taking in the scenery of Bungo Ono City. ■■■ Access to central Bungo Ono City ■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car 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. You can access the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website from the profile link. ■■■■■■■■■■■■ For details, please see the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website. https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20241225megurukura/...

【Saitobaru Archaeological Museums】Exhibition III. Trinkets of Beauty and Rights ~Miyazaki's Kofun Tumulus Culture Reflected by Jade~ This is an announcement from the Saitobaru Archaeological Museums. From Saturday, January 18th, we will held in a special exhibition to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the opening of the museum, "History of Exchange of People, Things, and Hearts Across the Sea" as Exhibition III. Jewelry of beauty and power ~ Miyazaki's Kofun Tumulus culture ~ reflected by jade (tama) will be held. Since more than 10,000 years ago, "jade" has been a fascination to people. The "jade" of the Kofun period is not only beautiful in itself, but also a status symbol that shows the social status and role of the time by dressing it as an accessory, and it is also an item that shows "beauty" and "authority". In this exhibition, we will decipher the Scene of the formation and prosperity of society at that time hidden in the glittering world, the characteristics of Miyazaki's Kofun Tumulus culture, and the exchange of people, things, and hearts through the sea. ■ Duration 2025 (Reiwa 7) January 18 (Sat) ~ March 23 (Sun) ■Venue Miyazaki Prefecture Saitobaru Archaeological Museum Exhibition Room ■ Admission fee free ■ Inquiries Miyazaki Prefecture Saitobaru archaeological Museum 〒881-0005 Miyazaki Prefecture Nishi City Oaza Miyake Saitobaru Nishi 5670 TEL：0983-41-0041 FAX：0983-41-0051 Opening Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (Entry to the exhibition rooms until 17:00) Closed: Monday (the next day if it coincides with the national Holidays), the day after the national Holidays (excluding holidays) #Miyazaki Prefecture #West City #Saitobaru Kofun Tumulus #Japan Heritage #Saitobaru Archaeological Museums #勾玉 #Jade

Bungo Ono City in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. On January 3, 2025, the Ontake Kagura New Year performance took place at the Kagura Kaikan in Kiyokawamachi, Bungo Ono City. Many visitors came that day and enjoyed the Kagura dances.✨ The Ontake Kagura performed with impressive, vigorous dances. Many guests were captivated. ■■■ What is Ontake Kagura The Ontake Kagura passed down in Kiyokawamachi is said to have begun in 1449, at the same time as the founding of Ontake Shrine. It has been handed down for a long time, and Kagura in this tradition is performed in Oono, Naoiri, Ken Nan, and as far as the Aso region. In 2007 it was designated a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. ■■■ Access to central Bungo Ono City ■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car 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. You can find the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website linked from our profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Fire Department New-Year Review Ceremony Today, Sunday, January 5, the fire brigade held its New-Year review ceremony at the Town Hall Parking Lot 🚒✨ The car thermometer read minus 4°C as we headed to the scene 😂 It was a freezing ceremony ❄️ Although I was fully bundled up and cheekily stood near the heater to take photos… The firefighters formed ranks with a poised, unfazed bearing that made them look truly impressive…👏 The squad training demonstration showed sharp, disciplined movements born of daily practice, which was extremely reassuring 🥹✨ The mass water discharge that followed sent colorful columns of water high into the sky and was incredibly powerful 🤩 They moved a fair distance to prepare before the discharge, and thanks to everyone’s perfectly synchronized, efficient actions it proceeded smoothly; I’m truly grateful for the fire brigade’s daily efforts 🙇‍♀️！ The ceremony concluded without issue after awards were presented to firefighting personnel, brigade members, distinguished contributors to firefighting, and families who support the brigade 🏆💫 To the fire brigade, who always protect our town and keep residents safe in their daily lives, thank you so much ✨

Happy New Year. The first sunrise of 2025 seen from the summit of Mt. Kuratake in Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture. The sun rises from the direction of the Aso caldera.

New Year Greetings Thank you very much for all your support last year. I look forward to your continued support this year. How did you spend the New Year? 😌 I hope the seasonal influenza and other circulating illnesses didn’t affect you. Wishing you a wonderful year ahead. 🙇‍♀️

[❄️ Winter in Gokase 2025 ❄️] Until Friday, February 28, 2025! Yes — winter too!! Instagram Campaign 🥳✨ After following the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account (@gokase_kanko), post a wintery photo taken in Gokase town on Instagram with these two hashtags: #Winter in Gokase 2025 and #Date and place of the photo (for example: #Unoko Falls) 🤳❤️‍🔥 One winner will receive a Gokase specialty product every day during the campaign period 🎁✨ Plus! The best entries will receive a gift set of Gokase specialties 🤩👏 Entries you post may be featured on the Gokase Tourism Association’s social media and other channels 💡 [Period] From Monday, December 30, 2024 to Friday, February 28, 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 care to avoid accidents while photographing. ------------------------------------------ …Actually, the voting period for “Gokase Autumn Foliage 2024” is still underway, so I thought mixing them might be confusing and planned to announce this after the New Year, but… I really want you to post New Year photos too 🥺🙏!!! I couldn’t wait and posted early 😂 We look forward to many beautiful winter photos of Gokase ☃️💕 Please keep the entries coming — thank you 📸🙏

Matsuura Whitebait & Tiger puffer fish gourmet fair is being held in! !️ Held in a gourmet fair where restaurants and accommodations in the city offer dishes using the ultra-rare Matsuura "whitebait" that is caught only during this period and the aquaculture "Tiger puffer fish" that boasts the largest production in No.1 in Japan. Each restaurant offers elaborate menus such as Kaisen Donburi using "raw whitebait", which is rare in Kyushu, pasta and rice bowls of "kamaage whitebait" with outstanding texture and flavor, and course meal of Tiger puffer fish. Please take this opportunity to Gari "Matsuura's Extreme" at "Production Area Matsuura"! 【Events Overview】 ◆Period: 2025 (Reiwa 7)Until Friday, February 9 　　* The whitebait fair has been extended due to popular demand! 　　* Please remember until "Pufferfish Day"! ◆ Participating stores: 10 ⇒ 11 stores 　　* "Roadside Station Takarajima" has been newly added to "Matsuura Umi no Furusato-kan" and "Shin-Matsuura Fishery Cooperative Fishery Processing Plant", which are only available for sale. ◆ Win! : We are also running a campaign in which those who order the Subject Menu during the Gourmet Fair and cooperate with the questionnaire will be selected by lottery to win luxurious prizes such as Matsuura's Specialty products. Please see the flyer for details. #Matsuura City, Nagasaki, Matsuura City #Matsuura's Extreme #Matsuura whitebait #Matsuura cultured Tiger puffer fish #Matsuura Shun ゙ Shun ゙ Market #Holy land of Fried Horse Mackerel Matsuura #Matsuura, the land of the end of the original era