The hydrangeas at Shimoda Park are starting to bloom (^○^) While many flowers are still green, they are expected to change color all at once with the rain forecast at the end of the month ☔✨ From June 1st, we will hold the 55th Shimoda Onsen Ajisai Matsuri for a month! The best viewing time is expected to be around mid-month. Please come and visit Japan's largest hydrangea garden! ✨

Create special memories with your family near Tokyo 🤿☀️ This time, we visited Usami in Higashi-Izu. It's a seaside area in Japan that you can access from Tokyo in a day. In the morning, we departed the city, heading towards Izu while enjoying the coastal scenery. The landscape gradually changes. Time flows slowly. Just that alone allows you to feel a different side of Japan compared to Tokyo. On this day, we participated in a PADI Open Water Diver course as a family. At first, they seemed a bit nervous, but once they entered the water, smiles began to appear. Seeing the same ocean, watching the same fish, and being moved by the same scenery. Diving offers such special moments. The waters of Higashi-Izu are a popular diving area for international guests as well. The scenery changes with the seasons, allowing you to enjoy schools of fish and the serene blue underwater world. "I can't believe there's such a sea near Tokyo." It's not uncommon to hear such remarks from first-time international visitors. Obtaining a diving license is not just about getting a qualification. It's about challenging yourself to enter a new world together. It's about spending the same time in Japan's waters. That experience itself will remain as a memory of the journey. It's another side of Japan that you won't encounter just by visiting tourist spots. That is the charm of "Dive Near Tokyo." At Hokule'a Shonan, we offer small-group beginner-friendly diving tours and license courses. We can accommodate English speakers, making it a great option for international travelers and foreigners living in Japan. Why not spend a slightly special day during your trip to Tokyo?

Is there really such a different world in Nagoya? Yokisō, located in Chikusa Ward, Nagoya City, is a villa garden built by Jirozaemon Itō, the first president of Matsuzakaya, during the Taisho to Showa periods. Surprisingly little known even among locals, it is a hidden gem favored by connoisseurs. The vermilion bridge spanning the pond, the charming wooden corridor, and the autumn scenery with vibrant maple leaves reflecting on the water create a beauty reminiscent of Kyoto's famous gardens. The tranquil space enveloped in shades of green, yellow, and red allows you to forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Admission is free, making it easy to visit, and it remains uncrowded even during the autumn foliage season. Be sure to enjoy this hidden Japanese garden, the best in Nagoya. 2-5-17 Hōō-chō, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi-ken, Japan.

Is this Nagoya? It’s a corridor from another world that makes you do a double take. The Nagoya City Archives, located in Higashi Ward, Nagoya City, is an important cultural property built in 1922 in the Neo-Baroque style. Compared to Nagoya Castle and Sakae, it has fewer tourists, making it a hidden architectural gem where you can take your time exploring. Upon entering the building, you are greeted by an elegant marble staircase, stained glass, and arched windows that create a majestic space, making you feel as if you've wandered into a European palace. Its overwhelming beauty has made it a popular filming location for dramas and movies. The fact that admission is free and you can easily drop by is another delightful point. You can discover a new side of Nagoya. 3-1 Shirakabe 1-chome, Higashi-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi-ken, Japan.

This sky is unique to this place. Located in the northern part of Mie Prefecture, Inabe City is a nature-rich agricultural town overlooking the Suzuka Mountains. From late September to early October each year, the vast fields are blanketed with white buckwheat flowers in full bloom. During sunset, the dramatic sky is dyed in shades of crimson, creating a fantastical scene where the silhouette of flower fields stretches to the horizon against the backdrop of the mountains, resembling a painting. It is precisely because of the unspoiled rural landscape that one can experience this overwhelming sense of scale and tranquility. With easy access, just about an hour's drive from Nagoya, be sure to visit with your camera in hand to seek out this hidden gem of a view. Inabe City, Mie Prefecture, Inabe Town.

A sunflower field in the city center, encountered right in front of the station. Located just next to Nagoya Station, the Dai Nagoya Building hosts a stunning sunflower field every summer, a hidden gem known to those in the know amidst the towering skyscrapers of the downtown area. The golden rows of sunflowers create a unique contrast with the modern glass buildings, offering a one-of-a-kind view that is distinctly Nagoya. Even passersby can't help but stop in their tracks, amazed that such a floral spectacle can be enjoyed right in front of the station without needing to travel far. During the event period, admission is free, making it an attractive stop to visit while shopping or having lunch. This is a delightful spot to quietly add to your summer sightseeing in Nagoya. 3-28-12 Meieki, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture.

On a summer night, lanterns sway in the fiery sky. Tokugawa Garden, located in Higashi-ku, Nagoya City, is an authentic Japanese garden associated with the Owari Tokugawa family. Unlike Nagoya Castle, which attracts many tourists, this hidden gem allows you to leisurely enjoy the seasonal scenery. The Floating Lanterns event, held every year during the Obon period, is especially a must-see. Against the backdrop of a blazing sunset gradient, the sight of numerous white lanterns floating on the tranquil surface of the pond is breathtakingly beautiful. The weeping willows and green pines are fantastically illuminated, creating an extraordinary atmosphere that feels far removed from the city. Be sure to visit for a special summer memory.

In the purple tunnel, you forget the time. Tennogawa Park in Tsushima City, Aichi Prefecture, is cherished locally as a famous spot for wisteria, yet it remains a hidden gem with modest national recognition. From late April to early May each year, the massive wisteria trellises that cover the area are nothing short of breathtaking. Clusters of pink, purple, and white flowers hang down like waterfalls, creating a fantastical space that feels like stepping into another world. The nighttime illumination reveals a different, ethereal, and glamorous expression compared to the daytime. The free admission is also a delightful point, and it's conveniently accessible, taking about 40 minutes by train from Nagoya. 1 Miyagawa-cho, Tsushima City, Aichi Prefecture.

Discover a hidden gem in Nagoya. Quietly standing in the heart of Nagoya is Ueno Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. While well-known among locals, it remains an off-the-beaten-path spot for tourists. The impressive bronze statue of the reclining cow in the shrine grounds is a stunning sight. In front of it, colorful omikuji dolls in red, yellow, and green are neatly arranged, exuding a cuteness that makes you want to take a photo. The contrast between the vermilion shrine and the clear blue sky is beautiful, and aside from the exam season, you can visit peacefully with fewer people around. If you're tired of the usual tourist spots in Nagoya, make sure to stop by. 3-40-2 Uchiyama 3-chome, Chikusa Ward, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan.

Scenery I want to preserve in Japan. Yotsuya Senmaida, selected as one of the top 100 rice terraces. The moist air after the rain created an emotional atmosphere and was very pleasant. May 2026, Yotsuya Senmaida, Shinshiro City

\The highlight event of the Black Ship Festival is back this year!\ 📍【Reenactment "Signing of the Japan-U.S. Shimoda Treaty"】 Set in the late Edo period in Shimoda, this performance comically reenacts the actual signing of the "Japan-U.S. Shimoda Treaty"! The actors, embodying historical figures, deliver a captivating performance full of realism✨ There are moments that will make you chuckle…!😆 Even those not well-versed in history or children will enjoy it. May 16 (Saturday) 12:40 PM – Ryōsen-ji May 17 (Sunday) 12:30 PM – Shimoda Civic Cultural Hall Parking Lot Experience the unique history of the Black Ship Festival at this event; be sure to check it out at the venue!👀⚓

The 87th Black Ship Festival "General Information Pamphlet" is now complete! 📖✨ This pamphlet is packed with information to enjoy the Black Ship Festival, including event schedules, venue guides, and parade route maps. 🙌 "Where is everything happening? 🤔" "What time does the parade start? 👀" This pamphlet will be a great help during those moments! ✨ If you want to fully enjoy this year's Black Ship Festival, be sure to check it out in advance! It will also be distributed in print in the future. 📚 If you come across it, please take a look! ⚓✨

Information about ongoing events! From Sunday, May 3, 2026, to Sunday, July 12, 2026 "Izutsu and Creators." https://www.instagram.com/irozaki_oceanpark/... Location: Irozaki Ocean Park Until May 10, 2026 Strawberry Picking https://www.instagram.com/babyberry_farm/... Location: Baby Berryf Farm From Sunday, May 3, 2026, to July 12, 2026 Summer is approaching! Tide Pool Observation Experience [Beginner Level] https://www.eco-surf.com/reservation/... Location: Oogahama next to Yuigahama.

Aichi Museum of Flight Toyohama, Toyohashi, Nishikasugai District, Aichi Prefecture (within Nagoya Airport) Renovation work is scheduled from June 2026 to the end of January 2027. The Aichi Museum of Flight is a specialized aviation museum adjacent to Aichi Prefecture's Nagoya Airport. It features aircraft closely related to Aichi, such as the YS-11, Japan's first domestically produced passenger aircraft after World War II, and the T-4 Blue Impulse from the Self-Defense Forces. It's a spot that fulfills the longing for the skies for both children and adults... In addition to exhibitions, it also offers pilot experiences, experiments on how aircraft work, science shows, and more. They provide stroller rentals and nursing rooms, making it a welcoming place for visitors with small children. Nagoya Airport, officially named "Nagoya Aerodrome," is a civilian airport managed by Aichi Prefecture and shares a runway with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force Komaki Air Base. On the civilian side, regular flights and business aircraft operated by Fuji Dream Airlines, as well as small aircraft, are in operation, coexisting with Self-Defense Forces aircraft. Camera lenses, wide-angle lenses... highly recommended... Even with a smartphone's wide-angle...

This is the illumination of the Neodani Usuzumi Zakura located in Gifu Prefecture. I felt the strength of this ancient tree, said to be over 1,500 years old.

The staff of the tourism association has visited again! "Seretis," located right in front of Iritahama Beach, is a popular spot where you can enjoy meals while feeling the ocean in a spacious location!✨ This time, we chose the Wagyu burger (1600 yen) and Shimoda Blue Pudding (600 yen).🍔🍮 The burger features the rare cut "Togarashi" from Shimanto Beer Beef, meticulously prepared over two days. It's tender and juicy, bursting with the flavor of the meat.🤤 The "Shimoda Blue" used in the pudding comes from eggs of free-range chickens, known for their bluish shells.🥚 With a subtle sweetness, it offers a rich, adult flavor.😌🤎 Indulge in this luxurious gourmet experience while gazing at the sea—make sure to check it out!☝️✨

Rengebatake and local line Rengebatake was a common sight during my childhood, but now it has become a rare landscape. I captured a nostalgic atmosphere with the local line (Hokusei Line). Ageki Town, Inabe City, Mie Prefecture April 24, 2026

The atmosphere is greatly enhanced by the female boatman. *Aerial shots are taken with the permission of the Kunita family. *Approved for unmanned aircraft operation by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. *Flight plan notification and flight log preparation. Shibazakura of the Kunita family in Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture. April 2026.

The Iwata City Tourism Association is hosting a collaborative project with Daytona Co., Ltd. called "Iwata Morning Activity Cafe" at the Communication Plaza. Enjoy morning coffee, use it as a meeting point for touring, and feel free to drop by anytime. After the Morning Activity Cafe, we will hold a Morning Activity Market, where families can participate in workshops to experience crafting and purchase popular sweets. Food trucks will also be present, so enjoy a fun holiday at the Communication Plaza throughout the day. Iwata City's mascot, Shippei, will also come to visit! Date: Saturday, May 9th, 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, rain or shine. (In case of bad weather, the event will be canceled. Notifications will be posted on this site in case of cancellation.) *A portion of the sales from the food trucks and workshops will be donated to the Japanese Red Cross as "Relief Fund for the Noto Peninsula Earthquake Disaster of Reiwa 6." *The Welcome Bikers Roadstation (WBR) project promotes a network of regions and facilities that welcome motorcyclists, calling for traffic safety and improved manners for visitors. *The content of the stalls may change.

Cherry blossom viewing spots in Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture 🌸 A breathtaking view that spreads 360 degrees. ・ ・ ✅ Shishigahana Park ◎ 62-2 Ohira, Iwata City ◎ Parking: Available 📷 Taken on April 2, 2026 🌸

Date and Time: Saturday, April 18, 2026 *Cancelled in case of rain (no backup date) Venue: Mitsuke-juku Street The "Enshu Daimyo Procession" will faithfully recreate the scene where the feudal lords participating in the Sankin-kotai (alternate attendance) stay at the 28th station of the Tokaido, Mitsuke-juku, welcomed by the inn staff, the main inn, and townspeople on Mitsuke Main Street. The "Mai-guruma (Dance Cart) Pulling and Fire Dance" will reenact the story of the Mitsuke Gion Festival. In addition, various performances will be showcased throughout Mitsuke Main Street as a stage. Iwata City tourism ambassadors will also participate in the procession wearing kimonos! *Traffic regulations will be in effect from 11:00 AM to 8:30 PM on the day.

Photographed today, Wednesday, April 8: the wisteria at san remo park. There are white and purple wisteria trellises; the white is in full bloom while the purple has just begun to open. The azaleas are also coloring up, so please take a look if you are nearby. san remo park Address / Wadahaminamicho (next to Atami Port)

Twin Arch 138 with the morning glow and a row of cherry trees The hazy morning sun painted the scene in a soft orange light. Ichinomiya City, Aichi Prefecture April 4, 2026

From a hill above the residential area, you can see many Kawazu cherry blossoms in full bloom, and from the high ground the Tokaido Shinkansen and Suruga Bay also offered beautiful views.

Ongoing events through Golden Week‼ ① Ongoing until supplies last Ihama margaret picking https://www.minami-izu.jp/?p=we-page-event-entry&event=91181&cat=18736&type=event... ② Ongoing until around May 5 Strawberry picking https://www.instagram.com/babyberry_farm/... ③ March 28–April 5 Yuigahama cherry blossom tour http://www.the-surface.com/event.html#sakura... ④ April 1–May 5 Bamboo shoot picking and the takeno‑ko eatery opens http://takenokomura.com// ⑤ April 3 Irozaki Gongen Festival https://www.minami-izu.jp/?p=we-page-event-entry&event=3725&cat=18736&type=event... ⑥ April 18 and 19 Va'a Japan 4th Japan Cup in Minami‑Izu https://www.vaajapan.com/2026-japan-nationals... ⑦ April 29 Lead-horse riding experience day https://www.minami-izu.jp/?p=we-page-event-entry&event=7746&cat=18736&type=event... Spring in Minami‑Izu features both Somei-yoshino and mountain cherry blossoms, and it also offers abundant sea- and mountain-based nature experiences, so it’s surprisingly hot (exciting) just for that‼ Events across Minami-Izu Town! https://www.minami-izu.jp/?p=we-page-eventlist&eventlist=18736...

I visited Omusubi Kokoro, which opened this February (^○^) While rice-ball shops that let you pick from a display case are nice, this place shapes your onigiri after you order 🍙✨ Located near Shimoda’s popular spot Perry Road, it’s a perfect stop to grab a snack after a stroll when you start to feel peckish 🎵 For me, ume (pickled plum) is a must for onigiri, but I couldn’t decide on the second filling…. In the end I narrowed it down to simmered alfonsino, dried fish from Ogiso Shoten, or okaka from Yamada Katsuo Bushi Shop. After much deliberation I chose the simmered alfonsino. The hot, hefty onigiri are great for taking to your favorite spot this season or for enjoying while walking around! Of course, you can also eat them inside the shop if you prefer (^^) Please stop by when you’re exploring the town.

Rinyoji Temple dyed in spring crimson This temple is home to a weeping cherry tree that is about 200 years old. A limited-time light-up of the tree is popular. ※Those who visit are asked to consider donating to the Cherry Blossom Fund 🙏 Rinyoji Temple, Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture

Aerial footage over Kasamatsu Kawazu-zakura Road Kasamatsu Kawazu-zakura Road, Matsusaka City, Mie Prefecture March 2026 ※Model has given permission ※Confirmed with the management office ※Comprehensive unmanned aircraft flight permission obtained from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism ※Notification of the flight plan and creation of a flight log

A radiant morning on the Kasamatsu Kawazu-zakura Road. It was delicious 😋 Kasamatsu Kawazu-zakura Road, Matsusaka, Mie Prefecture Shot on iPHONE 11 PRO March 3, 2026

Mirai Towers and Kawazu cherry blossoms I photographed Mirai Towers (formerly the TV Tower) together with Kawazu cherry blossoms in Central Park in Sakae, Nagoya. March 2026