Introducing a Tourist Spot ❚ Karasudake Enkei Bunsui Located in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Karasudake Enkei Bunsui is a facility that conveys the history of water that has supported the local community. The mountainous area of Ogata Town once struggled with securing water. To address this challenge, the Nagaseoi Route, approximately 22 kilometers long, was developed over many years. Karasudake Enkei Bunsui was established along this route, playing a crucial role in fairly distributing precious water to the fields. Its unique circular structure is designed to divide water into equal proportions for different regions. Not only is the beautiful scenery a highlight, but the very system that has supported people's lives and agriculture is also a major attraction of this place. *Water flows from around June to September each year. There is no water flowing during other times, so please be cautious when planning your visit. 【Location】Obara, Ogata Town, Bungoono City

Breathless from the climb, Miyama Kirishima adorns the early summer landscape of the Mt. Kuju Range. It feels so good! Location: Hoshiozaki, Kusu District, Oita Prefecture

In the sweltering heat of the rainy season, I was drawn down into the valley by the sound of the clear stream and a cool breeze. Upon reaching the valley floor, I found myself in another world! Before me lay a fantastical landscape! At the information center at the valley entrance, I was informed that "Due to fallen trees and safety concerns, access to the upstream area leading to the Chockstone is currently prohibited." It was a bit disappointing, but there's always next time!! Location: Oita Prefecture, Yufu City

【Reihoku Sunset Marche】Announcement for June📣 Hello everyone! Here is the announcement for the "Reihoku Sunset Marche" taking place in June♪ 👀Highlights of this Sunset Marche👀 ❣The "Reihoku Sunset Marche" will feature local agricultural products, processed goods, and side dishes for sale. The famous "Ninoya" will also have a stall with its delicious ikinari dango! You can also enjoy a pack-your-own deal with Amakusa Bankan and small onions! We look forward to seeing you all 😊 Don't forget to bring your own bags 🛍✨ 【Items for Sale】 ・Amakusa Bankan (pack-your-own) ・Okra ・Rice🌾 ・Side Dishes ・Pumpkin ・Cucumber🥒 ・Bitter Melon ・Potato🥔 ・Small Onion (pack-your-own) ・Dekopon ・Corn🌽 ・Eggplant🍆 ・Flower Grass ・Bread ・Beets ・Bell Pepper🫑 ・Botamochi ・Mini Tomatoes ・Molokhia 🥦🍅🥕🍠🥬🧅🫑🌽🌶🫛🍆🫚🥔 Reihoku Sunset Marche 【Date: June 14th (Sunday) from 1 PM to 3 PM 【Location】Amakusa Reihoku Tourist Association (Reihoku Town Tourist Information Center, 4535-1 Kamitsufukae, Reihoku Town)

【Perfect Day for Unoko Falls☀️】 Today (June 10th) brings a rare sunny break! In the morning, the sunlight was soft, and a refreshing breeze created a pleasant climate 😌🌿 With the rain up until yesterday, the water volume at Unoko Falls is expected to be impressive, right? So, I went to capture it 📸✨ Just as anticipated! I was able to see the breathtaking Unoko Falls 😆💕 The beautiful sunlight sparkled on the water spray and the dancing leaves, creating a truly mystical atmosphere 👏

The coal mine train is an essential part of the history of Manda Pit. To transport coal, not only the mining locations but also the transportation system were crucial. Looking at the coal mine train reveals that Manda Pit was not just a single facility, but a significant part of a larger industry connected to railways, ports, and the entire region. 【Visiting Information】9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and middle school students / Manda Mine Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Miike Coal Mine #Industrial Heritage #Railway Heritage #Coal Mine Ruins #Modern Industrial Heritage #History Lovers #Manda Coal Mine #Coal Mine Railway #Industrial Heritage #Arao City #Kumamoto Travel #Japan Travel #World Heritage #Visit Japan

Moji Port, where the remnants of the day dye the evening sky Photo taken: May 30, 2026 Equipment: SONY α7II + Sigma 20–200mm The silhouette of Mojiko city under the twilight sky remnants of the day twilight over Mojiko town

At Manda Pit, brick buildings remain. Observing the color of the bricks, the shape of the windows, and the thickness of the walls evokes a sense of the substantial beauty found in the architecture of the modern industrial era. When taking photos, pay attention not only to the entire building but also to the texture of the walls and the details of the design. It's a spot where you can enjoy both history and architecture. Visiting Information: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (or the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and middle school students / Manda Mine Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Brick Architecture #Travel Photography #Architectural Photography #Industrial Heritage #Modern Industrial Heritage #Miike Coal Mine #Scenic Japan #Historic Landscapes #MandaCoalMine #Arao City #Kumamoto Travel #Brick Architecture #Industrial Heritage #World Heritage #Japan Travel #Visit Japan

#022 【Event Information】 ✨－－－－－－Tono Town Industrial Festival Confirmed－－－－－－✨ Tono Town in Miyazaki Prefecture hosts various events, but the "Industrial Festival" is the largest among them!! We are excited to announce the confirmation of the "Tono Town Industrial Festival"✨ 〔Date〕 Sunday, November 29, 2023 From 9 AM to 4 PM (Traffic restrictions from 7 AM to 5 PM) 〔Venue〕 Tono Town Nakacho Plaza (Google search: Tono Bus Stop) There will be traffic restrictions in the surrounding area. We look forward to welcoming many visitors.

Reihoku has become a place where you can say "I'm home." Would you like to come and hear about the present and future of six people who have fallen in love with this town? Thank you for always visiting the Amakusa Reihoku Tourist Association's website. We are pleased to announce that a joint activity report meeting will be held by the "Regional Revitalization Cooperation Team" and "Local Revitalization Entrepreneurs" active in Reihokumachi! Six members are working hard every day, utilizing their respective areas of expertise for the future of Reihokumachi. At this report meeting, they will share their current activities and passionate thoughts about the "future" they aim to achieve with their own voices. Kenta Ogata, who is in charge of tourism promotion and information dissemination at our association (Amakusa Reihoku Tourist Association), along with a diverse group of members, will take the stage. We welcome not only the townspeople but also anyone interested in the revitalization of Reihokumachi, community building, immigration and settlement, and digitalization to join us! ■ Event Overview Date: Thursday, June 11, 2026, from 13:30 to 15:40 (Registration starts at 13:00) Venue: Shiki Meeting House Community Hall Admission: Free (Everyone is welcome to participate) ■ Introduction of Speakers and Their Fields Koichiro Nakano ── Promotion of Immigration and Settlement Atsushi Kudo ── University Collaboration and Regional Branding Kenta Ogata ── Tourism Promotion and Information Dissemination Hideki Ohnita ── Solving Local Issues Using Digital Tools and Public-Private Partnerships Yuki Okuyama ── Digital Divide Countermeasures Yoko Goto ── Promotion Advisor ■ Contact Information Reihokumachi Planning and Policy Division Address: 660 Shiki, Reihokumachi, Amakusa District, Kumamoto Prefecture, 863-2503 TEL: 0969-35-3334 FAX: 0969-35-2454 We sincerely look forward to your attendance!

Hakusan River Fireflies ❚ Status of Fireflies as of May 29, 2026 Every year, many visitors come to Hakusan River to see the fireflies. Fireflies are flying around Hakusan River. They can also be seen near the Inazumi Water Cave and Hoge Rock. They are expected to be at their best from this weekend into next week. Since low temperatures can lead to fewer fireflies, it's a good idea to aim for temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius. 【Location】Mie Town, Bungoono City ■■Access to the center of Bungoono City from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing recommended spots for tourism in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

One of the iconic highlights of Manda Pit is the Second Vertical Shaft Headframe. The steel structure stretching towards the sky strongly conveys the scale of the coal mine. The impact of looking up at it on-site is exceptional compared to seeing it in photos. Whether you view it from a distance or examine the details of the steel up close, you can enjoy the unique beauty that comes with industrial heritage. 【Visiting Information】9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and middle school students / Manda Mine Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Second Vertical Shaft Headframe #Miike Coal Mine #Industrial Heritage #Modern Industrial Heritage #Steel Architecture #Historical Spot #Photo Journey #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #Kumamoto #IndustrialHeritage #WorldHeritage #JapanTravel #ArchitecturePhotography #VisitJapan

Manda Pit is an important historical site remaining in Arao City. Not only will you be amazed by the large structures, but imagining the work of the people behind them, the local way of life, and Japan's industrial development will deepen your visit. For first-time visitors, viewing the exhibits at Manda Mine Station before walking the grounds will make the facility's role clearer. 【Visiting Information】9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Fees: Adults and university students 410 yen, high school students 310 yen, elementary and junior high school students 210 yen / Manda Mine Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Manda Mine Station #Miike Coal Mine #Industrial Heritage #Historical Walks #Educational Travel #Japan's Modernization #Coal Mine Ruins #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #KumamotoTravel #WorldHeritage #IndustrialHeritage #VisitJapan #JapanHistory #TravelJapan

In early summer, Across Mountain in Tenjin, Fukuoka Photo taken on June 21, 2024 In the heart of Fukuoka City, the capital of Kyushu Island in Japan, there lies a mysterious mountain commonly known as "Across Mountain" Its "mountain face" The true identity of this green-clad mountain is the complex facility "ACROS Fukuoka," which features a large hall The southern slope is a quiet green space known as the "Step Garden" When the building was constructed, it was possible to enjoy a garden filled with greenery all the way to the rooftop, but upon my recent visit, it has now transformed into a splendid forest-covered low mountain This photograph is part of an initiative to showcase landscapes that have received the Urban Landscape Award from Fukuoka City, specifically selected for the "10th Landscape Award Photo Contest" During the award ceremony, I was humbled to receive generous remarks from the representative judge in the hall of the city museum, saying, "The composition is perfect."

For those who want to enjoy a slightly different journey in Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture. Manda Pit is a place where you can discover the charm of Kumamoto from a different perspective, distinct from nature, hot springs, and gourmet food. You can learn about the coal industry, modernization, local life, and the history of working people from various viewpoints, making it a great option for both adult historical trips and family educational travels. [Visiting Information] 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (or the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and middle school students / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Arao City Tourism #Historical Travel #Educational Travel #Family Travel #Social Studies Field Trip #Industrial Heritage #Japanese History #Manda Coal Mine #Kumamoto #Arao City #Japan Travel #Visit Japan #Educational Travel #Industrial Heritage #Japanese Culture

"The Sotomo Strait and Monji-gasaki illuminated by the morning sun, with the silhouette of the Kanmon Bridge" Photographed: July 22, 2024 Monji-gasaki is located on the Kyushu side of the Sotomo Strait, the narrowest part of the Kanmon Strait, where Kyushu, as an island, is closest to Honshu. At the tip, there is the Hesaki Lighthouse, which combines the morning sun, the tidal currents at your feet, and passing ships, making it one of the photo spots in the Kanmon Strait. This favorite shot taken from the Karato side of Shimonoseki City, capturing the morning at the gateway to Kyushu, was submitted to the 22nd NEXCO West Japan Photo Contest and was awarded the Grand Prize in the Best Shot category for highways. (It was also used in the calendar distributed by NEXCO West Japan, made from award-winning works, for September of last year (2025).

When thinking of World Heritage sites, some may imagine things to look at from afar. At Manda Pit, you can actually walk the grounds and experience the size and materials of the buildings, as well as the workings of the coal mine. The iron frames and brick scenery that remain in this quiet area are a true reminder of the industries that supported modern Japan. It’s a spot where you can enjoy a leisurely walk while taking photos. 【Visiting Information】9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM) / Closed on Mondays (the following weekday if it’s a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and junior high school students / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Miike Coal Mine #Industrial Heritage #Modern Industrial Heritage #Historical Spot #Photo Journey #Travel Photography #MandaCoalMine #Arao City #KumamotoTravel #JapanTravel #VisitJapan #WorldHeritage #IndustrialHistory #HeritageTravel

[Kumamoto - Amakusa] Experience genuine leather and tools. Adult leather craft workshop A leather craft workshop based on traditional European techniques will be held at the Reihoku Town Tourist Information Center in Reihoku, Kumamoto Prefecture. The workshop will feature high-quality Italian leather called "Buttero." Using professional-grade tools, participants will create their own card cases while experiencing the craftsmanship from hole punching to sewing. As you work with your hands, your unique personality will naturally emerge. Why not enjoy the pleasure of crafting and indulge in a luxurious time that tells the story of life in this beautiful local town in Japan? Date: Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM Location: 2nd floor of the Reihoku Town Tourist Information Center (4535-1 Kamitsufukae, Reihoku, Amakusa District, Kumamoto Prefecture) Participation Fee: 6,000 yen Capacity: First 10 participants (reservation required) Instructor: Makida Leather Workshop (Mr. Koichi Makita) *For inquiries, please contact the instructor For details on how to apply, please check the announcement section on the Amakusa Reihoku Tourism Association website.

Mojiko Sunset People capturing the sunset illuminating the Retro Lighthouse at the West Coast Breakwater Photo taken on March 21, 2026 While I was taking a close-up of the lighthouse lit by the sunset, someone noticed what I was photographing. Just as I thought, "Alright, I've got it," and looked away from the viewfinder, I was spoken to, so I stepped aside to let them have the spot and instinctively took another shot I don't know who they are, but I hope I captured a favorite shot that reminds me of Mojiko.

Moji Port Evening Scene The retro lighthouse at the west coast breakwater illuminated by the sunset Photo taken on March 21, 2026 The sunset at the Moji West Coast Breakwater Lighthouse (No. 5 Breakwater) appears like a glowing beacon It has been 13 years since I first captured this lighthouse illuminated by the sunset Living in Moji Port - Colog Blog Annex Sunset at the Moji West Coast Breakwater Lighthouse, May 6, 2013 (Monday) After a long time, I tried again and it went smoothly Feeling a bit happy.

Manda Pit has a grandeur that cannot be fully conveyed through photographs alone. Standing on-site, one can imagine the era when the coal mine supported the region and Japan's industry, as the size of the steel structure, the weight of the brick buildings, and the tranquility of the expansive grounds come together. It is highly recommended for those who wish to learn more about history, as well as for those interested in architecture and industrial heritage. When visiting Arao City, be sure to include it in your itinerary. 【Visiting Information】9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and middle school students / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Historical Travel #Historical Walk #Industrial Heritage #Coal Mine Ruins #Miike Coal Mine #World Heritage Tour #Brick Architecture #Japan's Modernization #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #KumamotoTravel #TravelJapan #VisitJapan #JapaneseHistory #IndustrialHeritage #WorldHeritage

Manda Pit, located in Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture, is a World Heritage Site that conveys the history of the Miike Coal Mine, which supported Japan's modernization. Visitors can feel the scale of the coal mine where many people once worked while exploring the large shaft headframe, winding house, and coal mine train. Unlike bustling tourist spots, it offers a quiet space to confront history. It's an easily accessible stop during your trip to Kumamoto or while traveling from Fukuoka to Kumamoto. 【Visiting Information】9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (or the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and middle school students / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Arao City Tourism #Miike Coal Mine #Meiji Japan's Industrial Revolution Heritage #Industrial Heritage #Modern Industrial Heritage #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #Kumamoto #KumamotoTravel #JapanTravel #VisitJapan #WorldHeritage #IndustrialHeritage

【Reihoku Sunset Marche】Announcement for May📣 Hello everyone! Here’s the announcement for the "Reihoku Sunset Marche" taking place in May♪ 👀Highlights of this Sunset Marche👀 ❣The "Reihoku Sunset Marche" will feature local agricultural products, processed goods, and side dishes, with the popular "Ninoya" selling their famous "Ikinari Dango" as well! We look forward to seeing you all 😊 Don't forget to bring your own bags 🛍✨ 【Scheduled Items for Sale】 ・Asparagus ・Rice🌾 ・Side Dishes ・Cabbage ・Chiffon Cake ・Potatoes ・Zucchini ・Broad Beans ・Onions🧅 (bulk purchase of irregular items) ・Dekopon ・Bankan (Kiyomi, Amakusa) 🥦🍅🥕🍠🥬🧅🫑🌽🌶🫛🍆🫚🥔 Reihoku Sunset Marche 【Date】May 10th (Sunday) from 1 PM to 3 PM 【Location】Amakusa Reihoku Tourist Association (Reihoku Town Tourist Information Center, 4535-1 Kamitsufukae, Reihokumachi)

【GW was full of events! 🎏】 Gokasecho's Golden Week was packed with events every day! All the events were created by the local community. 👏 Here are some highlights from the events enjoyed by both adults and children during Golden Week. 💡 【May 3 (Sun)】 ● Shiroyama Opening Ceremony The Shiroyama Opening Ceremony was held to pray for the safety of hikers. Unfortunately, due to rain, it took place at the Kotono Shrine assembly hall, but there were rice balls, grilled meat, drinks, and a lottery! 【May 4 (Mon)】 ● Kurara Festival The festival featured a flea market, various goods, workshops, fortune-telling, relaxation, and many delicious food stalls! This year, a stamp rally was also held! The popular lottery from last year had many prizes! It was bustling with people! 【May 5 (Tue)】 ● Utakeyama Azalea Festival The Utakeyama Azalea Festival was held to pray for the safety of hikers. In the morning, a "koinobori sports day" was held, enjoyable for everyone from children to the elderly. In the afternoon, there were quizzes, stage programs, and a variety of activities!

From the summit of a small mountain called Uomidake in Ibusuki City, Kagoshima Prefecture, you can see a landscape that feels like a foreign land. Since there are not many tourists, you can take your time.

【Teppen Kagura Festival👹】 Today (April 26th), the "Teppen Kagura Festival" was held at the Gokase Winery-style hall✨ Despite the unfortunate rainy weather, the venue was filled with people and excitement that blew away the rain and cold🔥 This festival features not only Kagura from Gokasecho but also Kagura from the neighboring Yamatocho in Kumamoto Prefecture💡 It seems there were some first-time Kagura fans in attendance, and I was delighted to see that events in Gokasecho are becoming more widely known🥰 Gokasecho has plenty of events lined up for the Golden Week🙌 Be sure to check out the tourism association's website and social media!😊

Life blooming on a green branch. A slender green life stretches from the tip of a broken branch. The roots may leave the earth, and the trunk may lie flat, but the cherry blossoms simply bloom. Quietly, strongly. They give their all to bloom in the 'last spring'.

[Activity Report] We held a rice planting monitoring tour at the Sky Terraced Rice Fields in Reihoku on April 19th.🧑‍🌾 Hello everyone, this is the Amakusa Reihoku Tourist Association. On Sunday, April 19th, we conducted the "Reihoku Sky Terraced Rice Fields Rice Planting Monitoring Tour." Although it was a light rain on the day, working in the fog-shrouded, magical rice terraces provided a deep and tranquil experience, different from sunny days. ■Experience the abundant "daily life of farmers" During this tour, participants not only planted rice but also harvested fresh asparagus and experienced shiitake mushroom inoculation. 🌾Rice Planting: Enjoying the feel of the cold mud, step by step. Planting seedlings in the fog allowed for a pleasant concentration. Asparagus Harvest: Picking the fresh asparagus on-site. The joy of harvesting blew away the fatigue of work. 🍄‍🟫Shiitake Inoculation: The sound of tapping on the wood echoed in the rainy rice terraces. We also experienced this long-lasting job while thinking about the harvest. ■Lunch time accompanied by the "sound of rain" We enjoyed our lunch under the roof, with the sound of rain as our background music. We will take the feedback from this monitoring tour to gradually implement various experience menus. Thank you very much to everyone who participated, especially in the rain!

[All About Gokasecho in Spring 🌸] Here are some photos of Gokasecho in full bloom 📷 Rhododendrons, weeping cherry blossoms, and Akebono azaleas were in full bloom! Please feel free to submit your photos for Gokase Hanami 2026!

Kikuchi Gorge in Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, opens on April 1st, showcasing vibrant fresh greenery. A beautiful natural landscape of streams and forests. With deep greens and clear flowing waters, it offers healing to visitors and represents a prominent tourist spot in Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture. This place allows you to feel the mysteries of nature throughout the four seasons. The average water temperature is 13 degrees year-round. In spring, enjoy fresh greenery; in summer, a cool retreat; and in autumn, the beautiful foliage. It has been selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Forest Bathing Areas, Top 100 Famous Waters, and Top 100 Waterfalls, among others. Covered with natural broadleaf trees, you can enjoy seasonal wildflowers. Breathtaking views of waterfalls, cobalt blue streams, and primeval forests await. The fresh greenery in spring is stunning, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. The walking paths are well-maintained, allowing you to feel the clear streams up close. There is also a glass-enclosed rest area where you can enjoy the view from the terrace, and light snacks and souvenirs are available for purchase. As of April 1, 2026, parking will be free. On weekends and holidays, a sightseeing shared taxi is available, making it a convenient and economical option. Kikuchi Gorge, filled with the charm of beautiful nature and clear streams, is perfect for hiking and walking, providing a refreshing experience for both body and mind. https://kikuchikanko.ne.jp/archives/featured/kikuchikeikoku...