Mojiko First Ship Dock The sun tilting over the strait and Shinsui Hiroba Photo taken on: May 16, 2026 Equipment: SONY α7II + Sigma 20–200mm Sunlight filtering through the Blue Wing in the Mojiko Retro Area The time when Shinsui Hiroba at the First Ship Dock is dyed in the sunset Mojiko, more people are coming to capture the sunset At the end of the last century, just when the retro project was starting, I used to wonder, "Why doesn’t everyone take pictures of the sunset here?"

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.

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.

I spent a few days in Tokyo this time, and I can honestly say it was more comfortable than I imagined. Tokyo is a fascinating city where you can experience in one day: ☀️ Clean and pleasant streets during the day 🌃 An incredibly lively nightlife at night 🍣 Delicious Japanese cuisine 🚃 An extraordinarily convenient transportation system What surprised me the most is that Tokyo is not as chaotic as people think. In fact, many places are very quiet, clean, and orderly. — 📍 This time, I mainly visited a few places: ✨ Shinjuku One of the busiest areas in Tokyo. Department stores, izakayas, drugstores, and ramen shops are all concentrated here. Walking near Kabukicho at night, you really get a feeling of: "Ah… this is Tokyo" (laughs) Especially when the neon lights come on, the atmosphere feels straight out of a Japanese movie. — ✨ Shibuya It's full of young people. Everyone has a great sense of style, and just walking down the street feels like being in a Japanese drama. The shock of seeing the Shibuya Crossing in person is completely different from what you see in videos. Plus, there are many cafes and department stores nearby that are perfect for a leisurely stroll. — ✨ Asakusa If you want to experience traditional Japan, you really have to come here. Kaminarimon, the big red lantern, and Nakamise Street are exactly the places tourists want to take photos when they first visit Tokyo. There are many people wearing kimonos, and the whole atmosphere is very Japanese. — ✨ Tokyo Tower & Skytree The night view of Tokyo is truly impressive. Especially standing at a high point and looking at the city lights, you get a feeling of: "How can Tokyo be so grand?" I recommend going at night, the atmosphere is really nice. — 🍣 You really can't go wrong with food in Tokyo This time I had sushi, barbecue, izakaya, and ramen. Honestly, many places in Japan are delicious even if they're not famous. Convenience stores are also amazing, and even late at night, anything you buy is tasty (laughs). — 🚃 As for transportation At first, looking at the Tokyo subway map can be overwhelming. But you get used to it after a few rides, and Google Maps can almost always guide you directly. Plus, Japanese trains are so punctual that it's a bit scary. — If you ask me: Is Tokyo suitable for independent travel? I would say directly: Absolutely suitable. Whether you come alone, with a partner, or with friends, you can find your own way to enjoy it. Tokyo is not the kind of place you "only visit once." Instead, it's a city that makes you want to come back after you leave.

The view of the fishing port seen from Armor Station in Kami Town, Hyogo Prefecture, was breathtakingly beautiful.

Some of Japan’s hidden gems are not places — but quiet moments noticed by the right people.

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

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.

Long time no see. At the end of last month, the potatoes in the field were blooming with lovely flowers. The combination of soft gradient purple and the orange in the center is really beautiful✨️ The season is definitely heading towards early summer.

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.

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

Event Announcement📣 On May 16th (Saturday), the "Sumomo no Sato Matsuri 2026" will be held in Sarabetsumura😊 This event allows you to enjoy cherry blossom viewing and local gourmet food in the "Sumomo no Sato," where about 1,000 plum blossoms will be in full bloom🎵 At the venue, there will also be a "Nodate" (outdoor tea ceremony) by the tea ceremony club and a "Yoga Experience." Additionally, as a special gift for attendees, the first 500 people who respond to the survey will receive a bag of "Donguri Mura Potato Chips"‼ Furthermore, a photo contest will be held simultaneously! Please post your photos of plum blossoms taken at Sumomo no Sato on Instagram with the hashtag "#SarabetsumuraSumomoNoSatoMatsuri2026" and tag the Sarabetsumura Tourism Association (sarabetsumura_kankou)! Prizes will be awarded for outstanding works, so be sure to participate🤗 Date and Time: May 16, 2026 (Saturday) 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM *The event will be held rain or shine Location: Inside Donguri Park, Sarabetsu Sumomo no Sato https://www.sarabetsu.jp/sightseeing/event/sumomo/...

Wakazono Park Rose Garden Masago 2-chome, Wakasonocho, Ibaraki City Parking... Paid Free Pets are not allowed in Wakazono Park Rose Garden. (Only guide dogs and assistance dogs are permitted.) Approximately 180 varieties of roses, the flower of Ibaraki City, are planted here, with around 1,750 plants blooming beautifully in spring and autumn each year. The best viewing times are from early May to early June and from late October to mid-November. Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the roses from the observation deck, making it a relaxing spot for the community. - Closed on Tuesdays (except when that day is a holiday) Surprisingly spacious with a wide variety of roses. It's free, making it a great spot for a little outing or a walk.

【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!

It's May 5th at Taiyo-no-Oka Engaru Park, known for its Shibazakura Park. The snow from last night has melted by the morning, and the temperature is rising, accelerating the blooming process. The 'Shibazakura' at the top of the hill is nearly in full bloom, while the lower part is about 70-80% bloomed. The cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and the tulips in the flower beds are beautifully blooming too! Address: Marudai, Engaru Town, Monbetsu District, Hokkaido, Taiyo-no-Oka Engaru Park.

A stunning display of carp streamers spreads across the rice fields! The Koinobori Revival Project: Let the carp streamers swim high in the sky! 【Event Dates】 ◆April 6th to May 2nd, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM ​Exhibition of carp streamers ​ *Please note that the carp streamers may not be displayed in strong winds or rain. ◆May 3rd to May 5th, 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM Nighttime (6:00 PM to 9:00 PM) illumination available 【Location】2-29-20 Higashifukui, Ibaraki City The location is about a 5-minute walk from the parking lot of Shinryu-ji Temple. If you wish to see the carp streamers, please park your car at the parking lot of Shinryu-ji Temple.🎏

It's amazing how just seeing this color the moment I leave the house in the morning makes me think, "Let's do our best today!" The power of plants is incredible 😊

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.

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

The beautiful sunrise reflected on the water surface at Ukijima. The composition utilizes the reflections of the sky on the water surface, captured through drone photography. Hinogawa Dam, Shiga Prefecture, Ukijima April 2026

Nemophila

The "moss phlox" at Taiyo-no-Oka Engaru Park is gradually expanding in pink each day, with the upper part of the hill at 60-70% bloom. Currently, while no flowers are in full bloom at Shibazakura Park, it is a rare opportunity to see moss phlox, tulips, and Sakura all at once!

Dandelions blooming along the irrigation canal🌼 Sparkling like the sun✨️ Nourishing my heart, I feel ready to tackle tomorrow again👍 Wishing everyone a wonderful end to the weekend🌿

Today I love to recommend a place in Tokyo which is Yushima Tenjin Shrine. Spring in Japan isn't just about enjoying the cherry blossoms, spring begins with the beautiful fragrance of plum blossoms, and you can witness the ume matsuri, or plum festival at Yushima Tenjin Shrine. It is near the Ueno park area and this festival usually held in 1st week of March every year. Ume lasts much longer than sakura, so its beauty can be enjoyed for a long time. Around 300 plum blossom trees are spread over the temple premises which are visited by many visitors every day. Besides, during this festival, various cultural events are held on the temple ground during the holidays.

【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!😊

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

Basking in the spring light... I found a little happiness during my walk🌼 The vibrant yellow gave me energy✨️

【Announcement】Night Sakura Illumination 2026🌸 This is an announcement from the Iwanai Tourism Association📢 Starting from April 20 (Monday)🌸 ・Event period: April 20 (Monday) to May 9 (Saturday) *Dates may change depending on the cherry blossom conditions ・Illumination hours: 18:00 to 21:00 ・Illumination area From Iwanai Town Hall to the stairs of Iwanai Shrine ・Parking Please use the parking lot in front of Iwanai Town Hall ⚠️Please refrain from street parking⚠️ ・Requests and precautions🙇🏻‍♀️ Please do not touch the lighting equipment. Please avoid looking directly at the lights. This year, the illumination area will be expanded from the side of the town hall to the vicinity of Gonsuien, and lanterns will also be lit at the bottom of the shrine stairs🏮 *The installation period for the lanterns may differ from the illumination period. Please enjoy the enchanting night sakura in Iwanai Town this spring♪ We look forward to your visit🌸 Contact information⇩ 0135-63-1155 Iwanai Tourism Association Office