Visiting Ichinomiya-ji in Kagawa Prefecture during the summer, aside from the usual pilgrimage, what I look forward to the most is the traditional summer event, the "Cucumber Blessing." As I step into the quaint temple, the first thing that catches my eye is the neatly arranged boxes of vibrant green cucumbers. Each cucumber is tied with a wish paper bearing the names and ailments of the devotees, creating a scene that is both novel and filled with a sense of sacred ritual. People firmly believe that through the master's spiritual power, they can temporarily entrust their internal pains and misfortunes to the cucumbers. Standing in front of the master's hall, I watch the devotees earnestly writing their wishes, with the rising incense and the deep, resonant chanting filling the air, even the summer cicadas seem to quiet down in this moment. The serene energy makes one naturally calm, and I silently pray for health and peace for myself and my family with my hands together. After the ceremony, these cucumbers, which carry the ailments of many, will remain at the temple, where they will be collectively buried in the Cucumber Mound. As the cucumbers naturally decay in the soil, the tormenting pains and misfortunes will also fade away into the earth. This seemingly simple tradition is wrapped in the most sincere and profound hopes of people for their health. For me, the Cucumber Blessing at Ichinomiya-ji is not just a special travel experience; it is a summer memory intertwined with the warm humanity and ancient beliefs of Shikoku.

[Traditional Event] Satokagura at Shiroyama Tenmangū Shrine in Kanbayashi Every July, the Satokagura is offered to pray for the peace of the Kanbayashi District. It has also been designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of the city. The Satokagura is said to have been continued since the Kamakura period, but it was interrupted once after World War II. In the 1950s, local people revived this important ritual, and this year marks the 50th anniversary of the Kagura Preservation Society. The Satokagura at Shiroyama Tenmangū Shrine will be offered tomorrow. Offering Date and Time: July 12, 2023 (Sunday) From 1:00 PM, the ritual Around 1:30 PM, the Kagura offering After that, there will be a children's sumo tournament and mochi throwing. *There is no parking available at the shrine. #Toon City #Kanbayashi District #Satokagura #Shiroyama Tenmangū Shrine #Intangible Folk Cultural Property #Traditional Event #Kamibayashi Kagura Preservation Society #Kagura Offering

"Mt. Kamegamori Flower Watching Tour" Now Accepting Participants Explore the summer trails of Mt. Kamegamori with a natural guide and observe various plants. Travel safely and comfortably by chartered bus on mountain roads. Visit around 1,700 meters above sea level and enjoy the changing vegetation and alpine plants along the way. 〇Tour Fee 8,900 yen (tax included) per person Includes guide, chartered bus, and lunch 〇Dates August 19th (Wednesday) and 20th (Thursday), 2026 〇Time 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Gathering at 8:35 AM) 〇Location Around Mt. Kamegamori *Gathering/Dispersal at Saijo City Tourism Exchange Center 〇Capacity 20 participants per day, first come first served Minimum number of participants: 15 〇Reservations and Inquiries (General Incorporated Association) Saijo City Tourism and Products Association Registered Travel Agency No. 3-201, Ehime Prefecture TEL 0897-56-2605

Ritsurin Park is the most representative scenic spot in Kagawa Prefecture and one of Japan's Special Places of Scenic Beauty, renowned for its expansive strolling garden. The park skillfully blends the natural landscape of Shiun Mountain with exquisite garden designs, showcasing different aspects in each season. No matter when you visit, you can appreciate the unique elegance of Japanese gardens. As I stroll along the park's trails, I first ascend Mount Hira, where I can see Nanko, the lush green pine forests, and the distant Shiun Mountain all at once. The scenery before me resembles a slowly unfolding landscape painting, with a gentle breeze and shimmering water that invite you to slow down and savor this garden's beauty, shaped by the passage of time. Next, I arrive at Kikugetsu-tei by the lakeside, where I order matcha and wagashi in the quaint and elegant tea room. Enjoying the garden view through the window while savoring the slightly bitter yet sweet matcha and delicate wagashi, time seems to slow down. There is no hurried itinerary, just the sounds of birds, a gentle breeze, and the pond water accompanying me, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the tranquil atmosphere. What attracts people to Ritsurin Park is not only the meticulously crafted landscapes but also the serene ambiance that allows one to relax and quietly experience the changing seasons. Reflecting on the time spent enjoying tea and the scenery at Kikugetsu-tei still brings endless delight.

This year, the hot summer in Uwajima is coming again! The Uwajima Ushioni Matsuri is celebrating its 60th edition. Paid viewing seats will be available for the fireworks display on July 22nd. Please enjoy the fireworks that color the summer in Uwajima. *Scan the QR code to view the details.

In June, Kagawa Prefecture not only boasts the azure scenery of the Seto Inland Sea but also welcomes the blooming season of hydrangeas at Mt. Shiude in Mitoyo City. As you slowly ascend the winding mountain road, you can see blue, purple, and pink hydrangeas adorning both sides of the path, as if draping a soft colorful garment over early summer. Upon reaching the observation deck at the summit, the breathtaking view unfolds before you. The islands of the Seto Inland Sea scatter across the horizon, appearing especially clear against the bright sky, while the blooming hydrangeas reflect the colors of the sea and sky, creating a unique and stunning landscape of Mt. Shiude. A gentle breeze passes through, causing the flowers to sway lightly, and the air is filled with the fresh scent unique to the rainy season, prompting you to slow down and savor the tranquility of nature. Strolling along the pathways, you can frequently discover various species of hydrangeas competing for attention, attracting many photography enthusiasts to stop and capture the scene. Compared to the crowds during cherry blossom season, early summer at Mt. Shiude feels more leisurely and relaxed, allowing visitors to enjoy both the floral and coastal vistas at their own pace. If you have the chance to visit Kagawa in June, consider planning a trip to Mt. Shiude. Surrounded by the vibrant hydrangeas and breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea, experience the most charming essence of early summer in Japan.

We visited Ogijima, an island with nature and art in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, as a family and took a walk to the edge of the island (the walking ark). It was a hot day, making the walk challenging, but we had a great time.

Yokeno Entei This is a stone and concrete sediment control dam located in the upper reaches of the Shigenobu River. Constructed in 1935, it is made entirely from stones sourced from the islands of Setouchi. In spring, the collaboration of cherry blossoms and stone masonry is beautiful, and around Golden Week, a local event called "Shigenobu River Koinobori Hanging" takes place, attracting many visitors. The prefectural direct-operated project began construction in 1932. A secondary dam, measuring 92 meters in length, was built downstream of the primary dam, which is 115 meters long, with both featuring a surface made of granite. The excellent condition of the remaining structure showcases the advanced construction techniques of the time. It has been designated as a registered tangible cultural property by the national government.

Shiogamori Furusato Park, campsite, viewing platform This park is located near the summit of Shiogamori Mountain at an elevation of 525 meters, encompassing a zone with a diameter of approximately 750 meters that includes the "viewing platform," "campsite," "park," and "Shiogamori Mountain Summit." The "Shiogamori Furusato Park Viewing Platform" is a must-see for families with children. It features an athletic area and offers a fantastical atmosphere reminiscent of a foreign land. You can enjoy a grand panorama that extends all the way to the Chugoku Mountains. A stroll along the walking path to Shiogamori allows you to enjoy cherry blossoms and rhododendrons in spring, hydrangeas in summer, and autumn leaves in fall. The campsite within the park has a cooking facility. *When using the park for barbecues or camping, you must report your name, contact information, and date of use to the Toon City Urban Development Division Park Section (089-964-4412). This is for contact purposes in case of any issues, not for reservations. *For barbecues, please use a barbecue grill; open flames are prohibited, and take your trash and ashes home. Please be considerate of those around you. *The water from the taps in the cooking facility is natural water and is not suitable for drinking.

Saragamine The Saragamine hiking trail is popular for its lush paths and the colorful flowers that change with the seasons, offering various scenic views. Among them, the "Ryūjin-daira" that unfolds before you halfway up the mountain is a must-see. A gentle and vast wetland stretches out ahead, leaving first-time visitors amazed, thinking, "I can't believe such a view is so close by..." From Ryūjin-daira, you pass through a beech virgin forest to reach the summit. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kumakogen town (to the south). While multiple routes exist, the one from the wind hole trailhead at Kamihayashi Forest Park in Toon City is the most popular.

5/7 and 8, Mt. Kamegamori Flower Watching Tour The Akebono azaleas were in full bloom. Next time, enjoy the summer season with a large number of flowers. Would you like to explore with a nature guide at an elevation of 1,700 meters?! Upcoming Schedule August 19 (Wed), 20 (Thu) Summer October 7 (Wed), 8 (Thu), 21 (Wed) Autumn 【Reservations and Inquiries】 Saijo City Tourism and Product Association Registered Travel Agency No. 3-201, Ehime Prefecture TEL: 0897-56-2605

On a quiet street in the eastern part of Kagawa Prefecture, there is a udon shop called "Marutatsu." This place is not like the typical busy udon restaurants; it feels more like a refined experience of local culture. Upon entering, the space is bright and spacious, allowing one to relax and savor the moment. I ordered a bowl of the signature udon, and the first thing I noticed was the presence of the noodles themselves. Made from Kagawa Prefecture's wheat "Sanuki no Yume," the noodles are both chewy and elastic, sliding smoothly and offering a delightful texture that showcases the vitality of hand-made noodles. Next comes the soul of the dish: the broth. Made from small dried fish caught around Ibukijima in the Seto Inland Sea, the broth carries a profound umami flavor with a clear finish. Adding local specialties from Higashikagawa, such as Sanuki and wasanbon sugar, enhances the overall taste with a layer of warmth and smoothness. The sweetness is not overpowering; it gently highlights the umami of the fish, making it hard to resist drinking it down in one go. This bowl of noodles can almost be said to be a microcosm of Higashikagawa. From local wheat and catches from Ibukijima to traditional wasanbon sugar, every element is closely connected to the land and culture. A simple bowl of udon, yet it embodies respect for the ingredients and a deep affection for the region. When I left, I felt that I had not just eaten a bowl of noodles, but had also taken a flavorful journey through the landscape of Kagawa.

Would you like to enjoy a walk where you can experience Saijō’s unique spring water culture, known as "Uchinuki," during a peaceful season? We recommend a 2.4 km walking course along the Aquatopia water system (a waterside-friendly area), stretching from Kanon Water to the Saijō Domain Jinya Ruins. From mid-April to early May, you can enjoy beautiful seasonal scenery: wisteria blossoms at Teishō-ji Temple (Kannon Hall) near the starting point, and vibrant azaleas in the moat-side area at the endpoint, creating a beautiful harmony of flowing water and seasonal flowers. Along the way, you will find many attractive stops, including Uchinuki spring water tasting spots, cafés, sweet shops, and local farmers’ markets—perfect for a relaxing and leisurely experience. In the historic moat-side area around the Ōtemon Gate from the Edo period, a beautiful streetscape unfolds where waterside scenery blends with outstanding examples of modernist architecture, such as the local museum, folk craft museum, and a church. This unique landscape showcases the harmony of history, architecture, and pure spring water—an essential part of Saijō’s charm. At the Saijō Tourist Information Center (open year-round, 9:00–18:00), visitors can obtain a Water Walking Map and information about bicycle rentals. It is recommended as a starting point for your exploration. Spot Information Teishō-ji Temple (Kannon Hall) 47 Kitagawa, Saijō, Ehime 793-0042, Japan Saijō Domain Jinya Ruins 234 Akeyashiki, Saijō, Ehime 793-0023, Japan Saijō Tourist Information Center 798-1 Ōmachi, Saijō, Ehime 793-0030, Japan Image List Image 1: Kanon Water Images 2–3: Wisteria at Teishō-ji Temple Images 4–7: Along the Aquatopia walking course Image 8: Ōtemon Gate Images 9–10: Folk Craft Museum / Local History Museum Images 11–12: Church Images 13–15: Area around the Jinya Ruins.

If you're looking for fresh and affordable seafood in Takamatsu, "Jakoya" is definitely the top choice. Although it’s tucked away inside "Michi-no-Eki Genpei-no-Sato Mure," just follow the line of people, and you won't miss it. The dining experience here is very casual; you simply choose your favorite dishes from the buffet. On that day, I selected braised stone bass caught in the Seto Inland Sea and a fried fish head as big as a basin. The sweet and salty flavor of the braised fish perfectly highlighted the freshness of the fish meat, while the fried fish head was crispy and rich in collagen, making every bite incredibly satisfying. Paired with a comforting bowl of squid rice and a bowl of miso soup, it was the most authentic local taste. What impressed me most was the incredible value for money. I ordered a variety of main dishes and side dishes without spending much, making it a high CP value meal. After the meal, I bought some local specialties at the nearby souvenir shop and took a stroll at "Fusazaki Park" to help digest. The sea breeze combined with the feeling of happiness in my stomach truly embodies what travel should be like.

We look forward to everyone's participation in the following tours and experiences. 【*Spring session fully booked, summer and autumn spots available*】'Mt. Kamegamori Flower Watching Tour' Images 1-8 - Observe seasonal subalpine plants with a guide - Enjoy safe and secure private bus transportation - Experience the changing vegetation while traveling up to an elevation of about 1700m. - Take commemorative photos at scenic points - Stroll leisurely along paved paths and enjoy the mountain air easily. Date and Time: May 7th (Thursday) Spring session fully booked August 19th (Wednesday), 20th (Thursday) Summer session October 7th (Wednesday), 8th (Thursday), 21st (Wednesday) Autumn session Tour Fee: 8,900 yen Payment on the day of the tour, cash only (Includes: bus operation fee, guide fee, accident insurance, lunch) Each day from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (*Gathering at 8:35 AM, reception at the Saijo City Tourist Exchange Center next to iyosaijou station*) Capacity: 20 participants per session on a first-come, first-served basis (minimum number of participants is 15) Application Deadline: 14 days before each tour date 【*A few spots left*】 'Experience the Aroma of the Forest with Kuromoji' Images 9-11 - Enjoy part of the extraction process of Kuromoji essential oil and distillate, as well as a silk scarf dyeing experience - High-quality Japanese essential oil, distillate, and silk scarf extracted from just 1.5ml from 1kg of branches and leaves will be souvenirs - Relax in the noble aroma of the forest at the foot of the mountain Date and Time: May 18th (Monday), June 15th (Monday) Tour Fee: 6,000 yen, payment on the day of the tour, cash only (Includes: instructor fee, lunch) From 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM (*Gathering at 9:50 AM, reception at the Ishizuchi Nature and Living Research Room (former Ooboki Clinic)*) Capacity: 8 participants per session on a first-come, first-served basis (minimum number of participants is 4) Application Deadline: 10 days before each tour date Contact and Application Information (General Incorporated Association) Saijo City Tourism and Products Association Registered travel agency No. 3-201 by the Ehime Prefectural Governor Phone: 0897-56-2605 FAX: 0897-47-3733 #Tour #Nature #Ishizuchi #Plants #Stroll #Subalpine #Foot of the Mountain #Scenic View #Guide #Essential Oil #Distillate #Floral Water #Kuromoji

Overlooking the Seto Inland Sea! Introducing the "Minami Iyo Cycling Tour" 🚴‍♀️ In Iyo City, Ehime Prefecture, the Minami Iyo area is a treasure trove of scenic spots that offer stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea from its elevated locations! Why not join a guided cycling tour on an E-BIKE to fully enjoy the charm of the Minami Iyo area? ✅ Guided tours for those who don’t usually ride bicycles! ✅ First-time E-BIKE riders will receive thorough instruction! ✅ Enjoy beautiful landscapes that change with the seasons as if you were strolling on a bicycle! ✅ A course and lunch that deliver the ultimate relaxation 🚴‍♂️ Experience Details 🚴‍♂️ Duration: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Meeting Place: Welpia Iyo (1761-1 Shimo Mitani, Iyo City, Ehime Prefecture) Course: Approximately 16 km from Welpia Iyo – Ehime Forest Park – Iyo Shrine – Iyo-Nada Service Area – Lunch – Welpia Iyo Price: 4,500 yen per person, 3,500 yen for two or more (includes guide, rental bicycle, and lunch) ✉ Reservation Method ✉ Please inform us of the following via email or phone. * Name * Desired Date * Number of People * Contact Phone Number * Age * Address 【For Inquiries】 Iyo City Tourism and Products Association Soleiyo Business Hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Phone Number: 089-994-5852 Mail: info@soleiyo.com For more details, please search for the Iyo City Tourism and Products Association Soleiyo website.

The cherry blossoms in Bujo are at their best. Depending on the weather, I expect they will be enjoyable through the end of this week. Please do visit. Elsewhere across the city, trees are also in full bloom. Bujo Park 793-0035 Fukutake, Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture

Spring at Cafe Jardin in Jardin feels like a season gently wrapped in color. In April in Takamatsu, the moss phlox are in full bloom. I made a special trip to this countryside café; as my car entered, the surroundings grew quiet, leaving city noise behind and only the wind and birdsong. Walking into the grounds, my eyes were instantly filled with a vast swath of pink—the moss phlox stretched like a carpet, rolling with the terrain and reflecting off a nearby pond, creating a beauty that seemed almost unreal.  I chose an outdoor seat, admired the sea of flowers, and ordered a simple lunch and coffee. The food here is unpretentious yet carefully prepared: light dishes like pizza and pasta arrived at just the right temperature and with inviting aromas, naturally slowing the pace of the meal.  What I loved most was the atmosphere. There was no urban noise, only the sound of a breeze through the blossoms, and occasional insects and small animals flitting about. I heard that during the moss phlox peak there is a "Flower Festival" that draws many visitors who come specifically to see this spectacular sight.  Before leaving, I walked slowly around the garden once more. The pink, white, and pale purple moss phlox shimmered softly in the sunlight, as if the whole of spring had been gathered into this patch of land. If spring in Takamatsu had a color, it would probably be the color of these moss phlox.

Introduction to Shimanto Festivals in Shimanto City, Kochi Prefecture This introduces the local festivals that have been held in Shimanto City since long ago. 〇 Nakamura Region About 550 years ago, Norifusa Ichijo came down from Kyoto to the Nakamura Region, and many historic sites remain there, including streets and place names modeled after Kyoto. In the Nakamura Region, many festivals are held, including those associated with Tosa Ichijo. 1-1 Tosa Ichijo Kuge Gyoretsu (Fuji Matsuri) This event reenacts the arrival of Norifusa Ichijo, who left Kyoto in 1468 and took residence at Nakamura Gosho to restore the Hata manor, marking the foundations of Shimanto City. Modeled on Kyoto’s Aoi Matsuri court procession, the parade features a total of about 200 participants dressed in Muromachi Period costumes who march through the city. The colorful costumes, matching each role, unfold like a living historical picture. 1-2 Shimanto Citizen Festival The Shimanto Citizen Festival announces summer in Little Kyoto Nakamura. Organized mainly by the Shimanto Citizen Festival Executive Committee, a group of local volunteers, the festival includes citizen-participation events such as the Nakamura Dance parade and the lantern float parade. In particular, the powerful performance of the lantern floats, lit and paraded through the streets, offers inventive displays by each participating group and is well worth seeing. 1-3 All-Japan Jorogumo Sumo Tournament Long loved as a children’s summer pastime, this event is held on the first Saturday of August at Ichijo Shrine, located on a hill in the city center, as a summer memory for the children. Nationwide, this traditional event survives only in Shimanto City Nakamura and Kajiki Town in Kagoshima Prefecture. 1-4 Daimonji Bonfire The Daimonji Bonfire is an Obon custom in the Misaki district, Shimanto City, and a seasonal symbol that signals the end of summer in Little Kyoto Nakamura. On the 16th day of the seventh month of the lunar calendar, the slope of Todaijiyama (locally called Mt. Dainoji), where the mountain deity is worshipped, is carved into the shape of the character “大” and torches gathered from each household in the district are placed and burned. According to tradition, Fusaie, the son of Norifusa Ichijo, began this practice to console the spirits of Norifusa and his grandfather Kaneyoshi and to reminisce about Kyoto. Today, the event is run by local residents and delights many spectators as the "fire associated with Ichijo." 1-5 Shimanto Summer Fireworks Festival The Shimanto Citizen Festival, which heralds summer in Little Kyoto Nakamura, concludes with the Shimanto Summer Fireworks Festival, where music and fireworks perform together and a spectrum of colorful shells blaze into the sky. The fireworks reflected in the waters of the Shimanto River, called "Japan’s last clear stream," are simply exquisite. 1-6 Fuwa Hachimangu Grand Festival The Fuwa Hachimangu Grand Festival features the famous "marriage of the gods," with portable shrines of the male and female deities. After the male deity’s mikoshi, paraded through the town, awaits at Hachiman Shrine and the female deity’s mikoshi arrives, rituals such as the joining of the shrines are performed. This marriage ceremony of the deities is a rare ritual nationwide, said to have been started by Ichijo-ko, who enshrined the shrine, to discourage the then-common practice of abduction marriages. 1-7 Ichijo Grand Festival Since the establishment of Ichijo Shrine in the center of Shimanto City in 1862, this major festival has been held every year and represents Shimanto City. During the festival period, the sacred flame brought from Kyoto is displayed and many events, including a procession of children in historical costume, take place. 〇 Nishitosa Region The Nishitosa Region, located upstream in Shimanto City, features scattered riverside settlements and a peaceful landscape. In Nishitosa, traditional festivals passed down through generations are held in each district. 2-1 Iwama Boat Festival This ritual takes place at the summer festival of Iwama Tenmangu Shrine, when a mikoshi is placed on a boat and carried across the Shimanto River for a ceremony on the riverbank of the Kayou area. 2-2 Kondani Nembutsu Odori This Obon memorial ritual has been passed down in the Nishitosa Gonotani area of Shimanto City since around 1665. Bells and drums accompany the chanting of nembutsu, torches are lit on the riverbank for a water festival, and segaki memorial services and rites for newly deceased are performed. 2-3 Tachibana Mikoshi Boat Crossing In the Tachibana district, two shrines—Yasaka Shrine and Shiraiwa Shrine—face each other across the river, and on the eve of the autumn festival the sacred object is transported by boat from Shiraiwa Shrine to Yasaka Shrine. On the day of the autumn festival, after the rituals are held, the sacred object returns to Shiraiwa Shrine together with the mikoshi. 2-4 Hage Autumn Festival At the Hage Autumn Festival held at Hage Tenmangu Shrine, young people and children parade across the submersible bridge with the ox demon, mikoshi, and the flower-picking dance. The flower-picking dance is then performed on the shrine grounds. 2-5 Itsushika Odori Itsushika Odori is a traditional dance passed down through generations by local children and is dedicated at Kotohiragu Shrine during the Kotohira Festival in Nishitosanishikagata, Shimanto City.

On this trip to Tokushima, I made a point of visiting Mima City's famous Wakimachi Udatsu Townscape. Walking into this historic street, traditional machiya townhouses from the Edo to Meiji periods stand neatly on both sides, and the strong sense of antiquity makes you feel as if you have stepped back in time. The most striking feature is the tall udatsu rising on both sides of the roofs. Originally built as firebreak walls to prevent fires from spreading, they later became symbols of merchants' wealth and status because of the high cost of construction. White plaster walls, black lattice windows, and tiled roofs weave together an elegant streetscape. Strolling slowly along this street, you can not only admire the beauty of traditional architecture but also sense the historical atmosphere of a former commercial town.

Today I joined the 11th “One-Day Hospitality Pilgrimage Walk” and walked a short section of the Shikoku pilgrimage route. The trip started at No. 75 temple Zentsuji, passed Nos. 76 and 77, and ended at No. 78 Tojo-ji Temple. For someone like me who has always lived in Kagawa, this was more than a hike; it felt like a journey to rediscover the land and its culture. Before departure, local residents served steaming udon and tea to encourage participants. This practice, called hospitality, is one of the most moving sights along the Shikoku pilgrimage. Locals believe that treating pilgrims kindly is like welcoming Kukai himself, so they give generously and let travelers feel the deep warmth of human kindness. Walking the old paths, we passed winter fields and quiet villages without the noise of the city—only footsteps and a light breeze. Zentsuji, as Kukai’s birthplace, stands with solemn grandeur; arriving at Tojo-ji Temple, the hilltop view opens to the Seto Inland Sea, broadening the outlook and calming the heart. Though only a little over ten kilometers, the route felt like crossing a thousand years, sharing the same path of faith with countless pilgrims. This experience made me realize that the pilgrimage is not just a religious tour but a way to connect with nature, history, and people’s hearts. Even walking a small section can leave a warm, lasting impression.

Saiki Foods Co., Ltd.'s Saiki Plum Garden is holding a Plum Festival as follows. We warmly invite you to visit. Saiki Plum Garden 〒799-1108 Ehime Prefecture, Saijo City, Komatsu-cho, 18 Yasui Otsu Plum Viewing Period: February 2, 2026 (Monday) – February 27, 2026 (Friday) Hours: 9:30–16:00 【Events During the Plum Viewing Period】 Dates: February 14, 2026 (Saturday), February 15 (Sunday), February 21 (Saturday), February 22 (Sunday), February 23 (Monday, National Holiday) Hours: 9:30–16:00 Details: ・Sale of various plum products (including an alcoholic beverages corner) Plum udon, curry rice, waffles, pudding, ohagi (sweet rice cakes), fried chicken, French fries, burdock tempura, coffee, vegetables, shiitake mushrooms, honey sales, and more A karaoke corner will also be available ・Lucky draw raffle (every event day 10:00–16:00) ・Performances by amateur bands from Saijo City (February 15, 13:00–14:30) ・Dōzen Taiko (February 14, 11:00–12:00; February 22, 13:00–14:00) SAIKI PLUM GARDEN The Plum Festival is being held as follows. We warmly invite you to visit. Saiki plum garden Address: 18 Yasui Otsu, Komatsu-cho, Saijo City, Ehime 799-1108, Japan Plum Viewing Period: February 2 (Mon) – February 27 (Fri), 2026 Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 【Events During the Plum Viewing Period】 Dates: February 14 (Sat), 15 (Sun), 21 (Sat), 22 (Sun), 23 (Mon, National Holiday), 2026 Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Details: Sale of various plum products (including an alcoholic beverages corner) Plum udon, curry rice, waffles, pudding, ohagi (sweet rice cakes), fried chicken, French fries, burdock tempura, coffee, vegetables, shiitake mushrooms, honey, and more A karaoke corner will also be available Lucky draw raffle (every event day, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.) Performance by amateur bands from Saijo City (February 15, 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.) Dōzen Taiko drum performance (February 14, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. / February 22, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.) We hope you will come and enjoy the beautiful plum blossoms and festive atmosphere.

The plum grove within Shimin-no-mori in Fukutake is about half in bloom overall (around 50%) as of February 13, 2026. Some trees are about 80% in bloom. Because the trees do not flower all at once and older trees are mixed in, the distant view is not yet at its best. Still, if you get closer you can enjoy the charming blossoms up close. Visit on a sunny day. Location: 50-9 Fukutake Otsu, Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture 793-0036, Japan

26/02/11 Saijo Water Tour Students from Kochi Prefecture joined us. The water city has lacked moisture due to consecutive sunny days. *Photos 6 and 7 show it when it was more hydrated* Many people gather at various water-drawing spots seeking the artesian wells called "uchinuki" that spring from underground. "Saijo Water Tour with a Guide" can be found by searching "Imadoki Saijo"

Perfect for walking! Enjoy breathtaking scenery. Perfect for walking! Enjoy breathtaking scenery. Search for "Kyukamura Setouchi Toyo walking course" "Search for walking routes KYUKAMURA Setouchi Toyo"

The anime "I Want to Eat You, You Monster" aired until December last year. This anime is set in Iyo City, Ehime Prefecture, and its surrounding area. It weaves a beautiful yet heartrending story of humans and ayakashi. Scenes of seaside beauty, such as Goshikihama Beach, Futami Seaside Park, and the area around Iyo-Kaminada Station in Iyo City, Ehime Prefecture, appear throughout the anime. Remarkably, the "Iyo Sai Festival" that appears in the series is a real summer festival held annually in Iyo City. The Iyo Sai Festival Fireworks Display, where about 10,000 fireworks can be seen up close, draws large crowds every year, and last year it was a big hit with collaboration posters and character guide voices from the anime. If you are planning a pilgrimage to these sacred sites, first visit the Iyo City Tourist Information Center Soleiyo, located inside Tezukuri Koryu Ichiba Machiya adjacent to JR Iyoshi Station! Right now, a life-size panel of Miko Shiro welcomes visitors. The center also sells official Watatabe goods and provides introductions to spots that appear in the series. If you want to learn about Iyo City's mascot "Mikanmaru," who appears in the ending of episode 4, "Shall I Become the Sun for You?," be sure to stop by www

Saturday, January 31: "Ehime Love Food Market" — Vendor Notice for Okaido Shopping Street We plan to exhibit as follows. We will promote and sell Saijo City's famous sweets, processed foods, produce, and sake. If you are nearby, please stop by. "Ehime Love Food Market" — Saijo City Booth Day Saturday, January 31, 2025 Location: Okaido Shopping Street (Saijo City booth in front of the blood donation center) Time: 11:00–16:00