Taishaku Gorge ❚ Oita Bungo-Ono Geopark Located in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Taishaku Gorge is a scenic area surrounded by cliffs of welded tuff with developed columnar jointing, stretching along the Okudake River. The rock walls on both sides rise about 70 meters high, creating a majestic and impressive landscape in conjunction with the clear blue river flow. Taishaku Gorge is a canyon formed by the erosion of welded tuff created by a massive eruption of Mount Aso 90,000 years ago, with the Okudake River gradually carving it over a long period. The valley floor exposes rocks formed by volcanic activity around 15 million years ago, allowing visitors to closely feel the geological history of the area. It is also known as one of the geo-sites of the Oita Bungo-Ono Geopark, attracting attention for its natural landscape and geological value. Additionally, slightly upstream, there is a cave where charred wood, baked by pyroclastic flows, is buried, preserving traces of volcanic activity. Walking along the promenade brings visitors closer to the riverside, allowing for a more intimate experience of the rock faces, the tranquil air of the gorge, and the clarity of the water, which are all part of the charm of Taishaku Gorge. In summer, the clear waters present a refreshing landscape, while autumn brings colorful foliage to the gorge. With its varying expressions throughout the seasons, Taishaku Gorge is one of the representative natural landscapes of Bungoono City, and it is a spot that many people should visit. 【Location】Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kobara 【Access】About 20 minutes by car from JR Ogata Station 【Parking】Available 【Restroom】Available ■■■Access to the center of Bungoono 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 and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Kyushu, introducing recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

How about adding Manda Pit to your trip in Northern Kumamoto Prefecture? Incorporating a historical exploration of this World Heritage site into your journey filled with hot springs, gourmet food, and nature will broaden your travel experience. Even a visit lasting 30 minutes to an hour can leave a lasting impression. It is also recommended for those visiting the Tamana and Arou areas. 【Visitation 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: Adults and university students 410 yen, high school students 310 yen, elementary and middle school students 210 yen / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Northern Kumamoto #Tamana #Day Trip #Kumamoto Prefecture Tourism #Historical Exploration #Industrial Heritage #Learning Journey #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #Kumamoto #KumamotoTravel #JapanTravel #VisitJapan #WorldHeritage #TravelJapan

Chinda Falls ❚ Oita Bungo-Ono Geopark Notice of Reopening of Chinda Falls Friendship Park Due to construction, Chinda Falls Friendship Park had been completely off-limits for a while. Now that the surrounding construction has been successfully completed, access to the park and the popular "Old Power Station Ruins" is now available. Thank you very much to everyone who understood and cooperated during the construction period. 【Location】Yata, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture 【Access】About 5 minutes by car from Bungo-Kiyokawa Station 【Parking】Available ■■■Access to the center of Bungoono City■■■ 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 tourist spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Deaibashi and Todorokibashi ❚ Oita Bungoono Geopark Located in Kiyokawamachi, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, are Deaibashi and Todorokibashi. This area boasts the largest and second-largest arch spans of stone bridges in Japan, making it a very precious location. Todorokibashi measures 32.1 meters, making it the largest in Japan, while Deaibashi measures 29.3 meters, ranking second. Deaibashi was completed in 1924, built by the local residents as an important road connecting the community. Todorokibashi was completed in 1934, historically constructed as a bridge for a forest railway transporting timber. Furthermore, these two bridges have been recognized as Civil Engineering Heritage by the Japan Society of Civil Engineers for the fiscal year 2025, drawing renewed attention as historically valuable landscapes. You can drive close to the area, and Todorokibashi is still used as a road bridge. In contrast, Deaibashi is a pedestrian bridge, allowing visitors to enjoy its unique charm on foot. The Okudake River flowing beneath the bridge and the surrounding columnar jointing landscape are also appealing features. A place where you can encounter the beauty of both history and nature. Why not take your time to visit? 【Location】Yada, Kiyokawamachi, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture 【Access】About 50 minutes by car from Oita Mera IC About 5 minutes by car from JR Bungokiyokawa Station 【Parking】Available ■■■Access to the center of Bungoono City■■■ 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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■

On your way from Fukuoka to Kumamoto, why not stop by the Manda Pit in Arao City? It's a UNESCO World Heritage site that is easy to visit even for a short time. Adding a historical location to your journey will deepen your travel experience. I highly recommend this stop for anyone passing through the Omuta and Arao area. 【Visiting Information】9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: 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) #Fukuoka to Kumamoto #Day Trip #Omuta #Miike Coal Mine #Industrial Heritage #Historical Travel #Weekend Trip #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #KumamotoTravel #FukuokaTravel #JapanTravel #VisitJapan #WorldHeritage #IndustrialHeritage

Sugao Stone Buddhas ❚ Oita Bungoono Geopark The Sugao Stone Buddhas are located in Mie Town, Bungoono City. The "Sugao Stone Buddhas" are five stone statues believed to have been created in the late Heian period. When viewed up close, their delicate and beautiful presence is breathtaking. The highlight is the remaining red color, which conveys the vividness of the past to the present, evoking a sense of historical romance. In stark contrast to the usual calm atmosphere, the "Sugao Stone Buddha Fire Festival" heats up the summer nights of Bungoono. After a unique "Rooster Imitation Contest" based on local legends brings smiles to the venue, an impressive "Torch Throwing" event takes place, inviting participants into a fantastical and vibrant world, quite different from the usual serene scenery. 【Location】466 Asase, Mie Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture 【Access】About 40 minutes by car from Oita Mera IC About 10 minutes by car from JR Sugao Station ■■■Access to Bungoono City Center■■■ 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 tourist attractions and recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

The landscape of Manda Pit is a memory of the site that supported modern Japan. Walking through the steel frames and bricks in the spacious area allows you to feel the size and weight of the coal mine. Take your time to touch history while taking photos. Even ordinary walls and corridors have an allure that has endured over a long period. 【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 junior high school students / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Miike Coal Mine #Industrial Heritage #Historical Walks #Traveling Japan Through Photos #Travel Photography #Coal Mine Ruins #Modernization of Japan #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #KumamotoTravel #JapanTravel #VisitJapan #WorldHeritage #IndustrialHistory #HeritageTravel

A collaboration between the Wakasa Kuniyoshi Castle History Museum, Tsuruga Municipal Museum, and Echizen City Takefu Public Hall Memorial Museum will release special castle seals! ①Sagaki Kuniyoshi Castle 【Sales Location】Wakasa Kuniyoshi Castle History Museum 【Sales Start Date】Saturday, July 18th ~ ②Tenjinyama Castle & Kanegasaki Castle 【Sales Location】Tsuruga Municipal Museum 【Sales Start Date】Friday, October 16th ~ ③Fuchū Castle, Ryuumonji Castle & Komaru Castle 【Sales Location】Echizen City Takefu Public Hall Memorial Museum 【Sales Start Date】Friday, September 4th ~ Additionally, to commemorate this collaboration, curators from Echizen City, Tsuruga City, and Mihama Town will hold lectures themed around the Sengoku period. There will also be exhibitions at each museum, so stay tuned! The Fuchū Trio and Echizen – Revival from Turmoil 【Mihama Town Edition】Sunday, July 26th, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM At the Learning Room of Wakasa Kuniyoshi Castle History Museum 【Tsuruga City Edition】Sunday, October 4th, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM At the 3rd Floor Training Room of Tsuruga Municipal Library Speaker: Hiroko Isobe (Head of the Cultural Promotion Division, General Affairs Department of Echizen City) The Era of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Hideyasu in Tsuruga 【Mihama Town Edition】Sunday, August 30th, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM At the Learning Room of Wakasa Kuniyoshi Castle History Museum 【Echizen City Edition】Saturday, September 19th, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM At the e-Hall of Echizen City Lifelong Learning Center Speaker: Taichi Kitamura (Curator of Tsuruga Municipal Museum) The Toyotomi Regime and Sagaki – Kuniyoshi Castle and the Castle Town 【Echizen City Edition】Saturday, September 26th, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM At the 4th Floor Multi-Purpose Hall of the Takefu Citizen Plaza 【Tsuruga City Edition】Tuesday, November 3rd (Holiday), 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM At the 3rd Floor Training Room of Tsuruga Municipal Library Speaker: Yasuhiro Ohno (Director of Wakasa Kuniyoshi Castle History Museum) Contact Information Echizen City Takefu Public Hall Memorial Museum 0778-21-3900 Tsuruga Municipal Museum 0770-25-7033 Wakasa Kuniyoshi Castle History Museum 0770-32-0050

When you visit Manda Pit, be sure to look up at the buildings. You will find structures of a scale that are rarely encountered in everyday life right in front of you. Taking photos with people or the sky included will help convey their size. Experience the grandeur of this World Cultural Heritage site firsthand. 【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: Adults and university students 410 yen, high school students 310 yen, elementary and middle school students 210 yen / Manda Mine Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Second Shaft Tower #Photo Journey #Industrial Heritage #Architecture Lovers #Historical Spots #World Heritage Tour #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #KumamotoTravel #JapanTravel #VisitJapan #WorldHeritage #IndustrialHeritage #ArchitectureLovers

The book "Illustrated Guide to the Kikuchi Clan: The Rise and Fall of a Noble Family Upholding Their Beliefs in War-Torn Kyushu" was published in January 2026. The Kikuchi Clan This clan was active from the Heian period to the late Muromachi period, primarily centered in present-day Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, in northern Kumamoto Prefecture. They left their mark in renowned texts such as the Mongol Invasion Picture Scrolls and the Taiheiki, becoming a major powerful clan in Kyushu that resonated even in the central regions. This book introduces the history of the Kikuchi family, which supported the Seisei Shogun Prince Kanenaga, showcasing their significant presence in medieval Kyushu in chronological order. With new insights from the latest research, it offers a fresh perspective on the Kikuchi family. This is a book that history enthusiasts and those wanting to learn about Kikuchi's history should definitely pick up. Would you like to experience the proud history and culture of Kikuchi? In addition to large bookstores nationwide, it is also available at the Kikuchi Tourism Association located in Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture. 【Book Information】 "Illustrated Guide to the Kikuchi Clan: The Rise and Fall of a Noble Family Upholding Their Beliefs in War-Torn Kyushu" Edited by: Toru Anan Price: 2,200 yen (including tax)

The Manda Pit viewed under the blue sky is very impressive. The lines of steel, the color of bricks, and the vast sky come together to create a beautiful landscape unique to industrial heritage. When taking photos, try to include not only the buildings but also the sky and shadows. This will capture the strength of the mining site and the vastness of the sky in Arao City. 【Visiting Information】9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (or the following weekday if it’s a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: Adults and university students 410 yen, high school students 310 yen, elementary and junior high school students 210 yen / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Photo Spot #Travel Photography #Industrial Heritage #Miike Coal Mine #Historical Walks #Architectural Photography #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #Kumamoto #KumamotoTravel #JapanTravel #VisitJapan #WorldHeritage #IndustrialHeritage

Fukoji Temple's Hydrangeas ❚ Blooming Status as of June 22, 2026 Fukoji Temple is located in Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. It is also famous as a sightseeing spot for hydrangeas. Currently, the hydrangeas are in full bloom. We will keep you updated on the blooming status. 【Location】Upper Ozuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture 【Access】About 10 minutes by car from JR Asaji Station 【Parking】Available (free) 【Restroom】Available ❚ Fukoji Temple The cliff-carved Buddha on the temple grounds stands about 11 meters tall, including its pedestal, making it one of the largest cliff-carved Buddhas in Japan. The central figure is Fudo Myoo (the Immovable Wisdom King). Fudo Myoo is typically depicted with an angry expression, but this cliff-carved Buddha has developed a round and gentle appearance over the years of exposure to the elements. Despite its large size, Fudo Myoo has a very approachable presence. Fukoji Temple is also known as "Hydrangea Temple" due to the numerous hydrangeas planted there. During the rainy season, visitors can enjoy the sight of many hydrangea flowers alongside the cliff-carved Buddha. The hydrangeas are cared for by the temple and the local community. ■■■ Access to the Center of Bungoono City ■■■ 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 sightseeing spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Manda Pit is a place that exudes a strong presence amidst tranquility. The large steel frames and brick buildings convey memories of the former coal mine. Unlike bustling tourist spots, it offers landscapes that invite you to stroll leisurely and take photos. On sunny days as well as cloudy ones, you can enjoy the weighty expressions characteristic of 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 Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Photo Travel #Travel Photography #Industrial Heritage #Historical Landscapes #Japanese Scenery #Brick Architecture #MandaCoalMine #Arao City #Kumamoto Travel #Japan Travel #Visit Japan #World Heritage #Industrial Heritage #Travel Photography

When visiting Manda Pit, pay attention to the layout of the buildings. The tatekouyagura, hoist room, coal mine electric train, and exhibition facilities each seem to exist separately, yet they all played a role within the larger structure of the coal mine. As you walk around the entire site, you will gradually see the flow of digging, transporting, and supporting coal. 【Visitation 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: 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) #Miike Coal Mine #Coal Mine Structure #Industrial Heritage #Historical Walks #Modern Industrial Heritage #Coal Mine Ruins #Educational Trips #MandaCoalMine #Arao City #Industrial Heritage #World Heritage #Japanese History #Kumamoto Travel #Visit Japan #Japan Travel

Introduction to Tourist Attractions ❚ Karasudake Enkei Bunsui Located in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Karasudake Enkei Bunsui is a facility that conveys the history of water that has supported local life. The mountainous area of Ogata Town was once a place struggling to secure water. To solve this issue, a channel called "Haseoiro," approximately 22 kilometers long, was developed over many years. Karasudake Enkei Bunsui was established along this channel to fairly distribute essential water to fields and farms. Its unique circular structure is designed to divide water into specific ratios for different regions. This place not only offers beautiful scenery but also showcases the system that has supported people's lives and agriculture, making it a major highlight. *Water flows from June to about September each year. There is no water flow during other times, so please be cautious when planning your visit. Location: Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Kobara ■■Access from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture to the center of Bungoono City■■■ Approximately 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture Approximately 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing recommended tourist spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

The hidden gem I want to introduce is the Uda City Matsuyama Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, located along the Ise Honkaidō in Uda City, Nara Prefecture. The "Daiganji" temple here was founded during the Suiko period and is said to have been established at the command of Prince Shotoku to Soga no Umako. The area known as "Akino" in ancient times is now part of the Daida Uda district. According to the Nihon Shoki, a medicinal herb gathering (kusurigari) took place here on May 5, 611, during the 19th year of Emperor Suiko's reign. Medicinal herb gathering was a court event where materials with medicinal properties, such as deer antlers and medicinal herbs, were collected, indicating Uda's long-standing connection with medicine. In the Edo period, in 1729, the Morino family opened a medicinal herb garden, which is now preserved as the "Morino Medicinal Herb Garden." With this background, Daida Uda developed as a "Medicine Town" lined with pharmacies, and it is said that at its peak, there were over 50 pharmacies operating. The "Yakushi-no-Yakata" is a facility that utilizes the former residence of the Hosokawa family, who operated a pharmacy since 1806. The Hosokawa family boasted great prosperity, selling stomach medicines like "Tenjumaru" by 1836. Today, a beautifully crafted copper plate roof with a decorative signboard still hangs at the front of the building, conveying the grandeur of its past. Additionally, Tomokichi Fujisawa, the eldest son of Mitsu, the second daughter of the second generation of the Hosokawa family, became an adopted son of the Fujisawa family in 1882 and later founded Fuji Pharma Co., Ltd. (now Astellas Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.). Inside the facility, you can see displays of the development of Fujisawa Pharmaceuticals, the achievements of past presidents, and representative medicine packaging, allowing visitors to learn about Japan's modern pharmaceutical history. Please visit Uda City in Nara Prefecture, where you can touch upon the history of Japanese medicine (herbs) that existed 1,400 years ago.

At Manda Mine Station, you can easily learn about the history of the Manda Pit. After viewing panels, dioramas, and materials, walking through the paid area will help you better understand the meaning of the shaft head and hoist room. This location features a free exhibition room and is also where you can purchase tickets for the Manda Pit. For first-time visitors, it is recommended to start your tour here. 【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: Adults and university students 410 yen, high school students 310 yen, elementary and middle school students 210 yen / Manda Mine Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Manda Mine Station #Free Exhibition Room #Ticket Sales #Arao City Tourism #Miike Coal Mine #Learning Journey #Historical Exhibits #Industrial Heritage #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #KumamotoTravel #JapanTravel #VisitJapan #WorldHeritage #IndustrialHeritage #JapaneseHistory #TravelTips

Nestled along the rugged coastline of Otaru, Hokkaido, stands the remarkable Sea Lion Rock, a lesser-known gem that remains largely undiscovered by international visitors. In winter, the surrounding waters become a gathering place for hundreds of Steller sea lions, creating a spectacular wildlife scene against the dramatic backdrop of the Sea of Japan. As the seasons change, summer brings flocks of black-tailed gulls that fill the skies and cliffs with life. Rising behind this iconic rock formation is the striking red-and-white Shukutsu Observatory, visible prominently above the coastline and extending toward the vast Sea of Japan. Together, the observatory, the wildlife, and the rugged seascape create a breathtaking panorama that captures the essence of northern Japan's natural beauty. While Otaru is often celebrated for its canals and historic streets, this hidden coastal viewpoint offers a different perspective—one where nature, history, and scenery converge.

The Kitano area of Kobe is well up the slope of the city, away from the port and Sannomiya station. The long trek uphill can be daunting, but some of Kobe's most vibrant cityscape means you at least can enjoy looking around on your way from the heart of the city. Once you get up to Kitano, though, you are rewarded with a neighborhood with a meaningful international character. Whether it be the local Mosque (one of the oldest and largest in Japan), or the prestigious British international school nearby, there are plenty of signs that the cosmopolitan aspect of Kitano is more than a shallow veneer of foreign cuisine restaurants. To be sure, those are there as well, and they are delicious! From memory, besides the ubiquitous Indian, Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine, German, Russian and Egyptian dining formed some of the more eclectic additions, as well as Mexican food, a sure treat for any visitors from North America missing a classic mainstay. But the most lasting and striking stamp that the wider world has left on Kitano are the Kitano "Ijinkan", the former western residences from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The stateliness of this old-world refinement are well complemented by the dazzling modern city visible below the hills. Even a global chain Starbucks gets in on the fun, with a famous repurposed building that is considerably fancier than your typical starbucks cafe. Whether for appreciating Meiji history, western architecture, foreign cuisine, the vibrant and diverse culture of the neighborhood, or just getting some good exercise in and enjoying the view from the hills of Kobe, the trip from Sannomiya up to Kitano is well worth the effort!

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

Umekita Plaza at Grand Green Osaka As you step into Umekita Park, the first thing that catches your eye is the "large roof" designed by the architectural unit SANAA. It envelops the space with three soft curves spanning 120 meters from north to south, beneath which lies a complex facility featuring the information dissemination center "PLAT UMEKITA," along with cafes and large event spaces. Surrounding it is the spiral staircase "Gate Lantern," which serves as a guiding light for people at night. The plants in the park are primarily selected from those native to the Uemachi Plateau in Osaka, evoking the city's history and culture. Trees that change color in autumn, such as cherry blossoms, maple trees, and katsura, along with flowers like azaleas and camellias, showcase the beauty of Japanese nature throughout the seasons. Why not take a leisurely stroll in the park, where the scenery changes with the seasons? You wouldn't believe that this is in the middle of the city There were hydrangeas blooming... It's a nice plaza filled with greenery in Umeda, Osaka... A great place has been created in the city center 😊😊😊.

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

Event Announcement 📣 The "Tokachi Ohira Plain Exchange Festival," where you can experience the charm of agriculture up close, will be held on Sunday, June 7th 😊 We have prepared a variety of content, including experiential programs in collaboration with local students and universities, as well as gourmet delights from Tokachi 🎵 🔷Agricultural Machinery Experience: From historical old farming tools to cutting-edge robotic tractors and toy tractors, a wide range is on display‼ 🔷Hands-on Workshops: Experience making "pork skin bookmarks" and "pressed flower bookmarks" with students from Obihiro Agricultural High School 😍 🔷Fun Learning Booths: Experience cow displays and hands-on activities from Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine's "Dairy Farming, How About It?" as well as free tastings and surveys of meat products devised by high school students. Tokachi's gourmet delights will also gather together! ❗😍 Enjoy delicious local flavors to your heart's content 🍴 A special day where both adults and children can get excited! We warmly invite you to come with your family 🤗 https://www.tokachi-a-muse.jp/daiheigen...

The winding room is an important facility for understanding the history of Manda Pit. In the coal mine, large machinery and precise operations were necessary to safely connect the underground and above ground. The appearance of the building and the remaining spaces evoke the advanced technology that supported the coal mine. When visiting Manda Pit, be sure to pay attention to its role as well. [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: Adults and university students 410 yen, high school students 310 yen, elementary and junior high school students 210 yen / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Winding Room #Arao City Tourism #Miike Coal Mine #History of Coal Mining #Industrial Heritage #Historical Architecture #Modernization of Japan #History of Technology #Educational Travel #Manda Coal Mine #Industrial Heritage #Japanese History #Kumamoto Travel #Arao City #World Heritage #Travel Japan #Visit Japan

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

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.

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.

April 26, 2016, Narai Inn, Shiojiri City: Cherry Blossom View Narai Inn was as lively as always. The riverside is very beautiful with fully bloomed cherry blossoms. Sennen-ji offers a great view of the cherry blossoms from above, making it a recommended spot.

The weeping cherry blossoms at Zōsen-ji in Iida City, Nagano Prefecture, lit up on March 28, 2026. The blossoms were in full bloom. There were a few photographers present. I visited after seeing a photo in the brochure for the one-tree cherry blossom tour in Iida City. There were so many beautiful cherry blossoms that I couldn't see them all in one day. I hope to explore again next year.