Announcement of the Lecture "Looking into Lake Mashu" On August 27th, a lecture titled "Looking into Lake Mashu: The Underwater World Revealed by Water Temperature and Water Quality Surveys" will be held at the Kawayu Visitor Center. Lake Mashu, known for its high transparency, is recognized as a scenic spot representing Akan-Mashu National Park. At the same time, it has gained attention as an indicator reflecting the impact of substances emitted into the atmosphere due to climate change and human activities, with continuous annual water temperature and water quality surveys being conducted. In this lecture, we will reflect on how we have been addressing the water temperature and water quality surveys of Lake Mashu over the years and discuss the results obtained, while considering the future of Lake Mashu together. "Looking into Lake Mashu: The Underwater World Revealed by Water Temperature and Water Quality Surveys" Instructor: Hideo Oyagi, Department of Comprehensive Policy Studies, Nanzan University Date: August 27th (Thursday) 18:00-20:00 *On that day, the opening hours will be extended until 21:00. Admission is free https://www.masyuko.or.jp/news/mashukonozoku/...

【2026 Teshikaga Town Rental Bicycles】 Rental bicycles will be available at three locations in Teshikaga Town starting May 1, 2026. Enjoy the scenery that can only be seen by bicycle! Even if you can't drive, you can easily move from your accommodation to nearby tourist spots! These bicycles can be used in various situations. Reservations and payments can be made through the reservation site. Convenient! And easy! Please use them according to your travel plans. For more details, visit Teshikaga Navi or check the reservation form. https://select-type.com/rsv/?id=FZpoN5jDg1w... https://www.masyuko.or.jp/news/rentalbike2026/...

Hello🌞 This is Crystal Sound✨ The summer sky has spread out so blue that it's dazzling, creating a scene full of seasonal beauty😊☀️ The iconic scenic spot of Shosenkyo Gorge, Kakuen Peak, is also beautifully highlighted against the blue sky✨ We invite you to come and see this breathtaking view😃 At Crystal Sound, you can closely admire various natural stones💎✨ The birthstone for July is famously ruby, but did you know that sphene is also one of July's birthstones?✨ It is said to carry the meanings of "success," "reform," and "permanence," providing new perspectives and positive energy🍀 Inside the store, we also display a giant heart-shaped rose quartz❤️ that is popular for photography📸✨ Together with the beautiful nature of Shosenkyo, we hope you enjoy the charm of natural stones😊 All of our staff are sincerely looking forward to your visit✨

A breathtaking view unfolds along the Sky Road. This trail runs through the Hokuriku Alps Panorama Ginza. Starting from the Azumino trailhead to Nakabusa Onsen, you will walk from Mt. Tsubakuro to Mt. Daitenjodake. Enjoy the view of Mt. Yarigatake as you hike! 😆 Please be aware that hiking carries risks such as sudden weather changes and getting lost. Always check the latest weather information before entering and plan according to your physical condition. Avoid solo hikes, ensure you have proper gear, and submit a "mountaineering report."

Hello 😊, welcome to Jewelry Town Shosenkyo Gorge 💎. July in Shosenkyo is a healing season filled with beautiful scenery created by vibrant green trees 🌳 and clear streams 💧. Surrounded by cool breezes 🍃 and the chirping of birds 🐦, why not forget your daily routine for a moment and take a leisurely stroll? ✨ In Shosenkyo, where stone shops 💎 and restaurants 🍴 are nestled in nature, you can enjoy meals and shopping while refreshing both your mind and body 😊🌿. In Jewelry Town, you can see a variety of natural stones, including beautifully shining opals 💎. We hope you enjoy meeting your favorite stone! ✨ Opal is a gemstone that symbolizes "hope", "luck", and "creativity" 🌈✨. It is said to bring out the charm and talents of its owner, supporting them in taking new steps 💖. 💎 Our staff is sincerely looking forward to meeting you all 🌸.

Hello, this is Ryusuidō. In Shosenkyo Gorge, the greenery of the trees 🌿 deepens day by day, beautifully coloring the valley with various shades of green. Although it is the rainy season, the leaves wet from the rain shine gently, creating a calm and peaceful atmosphere 😊 In the upper area of Senga Falls, the annual summer tradition 🎐 of wind chimes is already being displayed. The origin of wind chimes comes from bells called "fūtaku," which were originally hung as talismans to ward off evil. 🔔 Their cool sound is said to have a relaxing effect that calms the mind. Please enjoy the unique harmony of the vibrant greens of Shosenkyo and the sound of Senga Falls, along with the refreshing tones of the wind chimes 🎐 during this season 😊 Additionally, the upper area of the falls has many spots where you can relax and forget about daily life. At Ryusuidō, we also have a variety of natural stones, including larimar, perfect for the upcoming season ✨ We invite you to visit Shosenkyo and spend time surrounded by rich nature and healing moments. The staff is looking forward to the day we can see your wonderful smiles 😊

From the summit of Mount Wagakuni, a breathtaking morning scene unfolds over Ibaraki. A sea of clouds completely blankets the towns below, creating a dreamlike landscape where the mountains appear to float above the sky. But if you look closely at the far right of the frame, you might notice a giant figure standing quietly above the clouds — and if I’m not mistaken, that silhouette is the famous Ushiku Daibutsu, watching over the horizon from afar. This is a hidden gem. Very few people know about this place. After I saw it I was astonished. Highly recommended hidden gem.

On June 12th every year, a safety prayer ceremony is held at the shrine located at the summit of Mt. Tarumae. The first image shows Lake Shikotsu as seen from the hiking trail, and the second image features the alpine plant Isotsutsuji. Enjoy the hiking season safely while considering your physical condition.

The Isotsutsuji Now The Isotsutsuji at the foot of Mt. Io is blooming abundantly✨. Its white, round flowers are incredibly delicate. Be sure to enjoy the Isotsutsuji that can only be seen during this time of year. At the Kawayu Visitor Center, we observe and publish the blooming status of the Isotsutsuji clusters daily (excluding closed days) from three fixed points. We also recommend planning your visit to the Isotsutsuji clusters at your preferred timing while checking the blooming status✨. Feel free to use this information for your stroll plans or trail information.

🗣️ 2026 Iso Tsutsuji Blooming Information At the Kawayu Visitor Center, we observe and publish the blooming status of the Iso Tsutsuji clusters from three fixed points every day (excluding closed days). We recommend checking the blooming status and planning your visit to the Iso Tsutsuji clusters at your preferred timing✨ Feel free to use this information for strolling and trail information around Mt. Io.

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.

The Hokkaido East Trail has started this season! The Hokkaido East Trail is a long trail of approximately 410 km connecting Kushiro and Rausu. Why not take a walk while enjoying the scenery of Eastern Hokkaido? For more details, please check the latest information on the Hokkaido East Trail's website and social media.🚶‍♂️⛰️ https://www.facebook.com/dototrail/... https://www.masyuko.or.jp/enjoy/atosanupuri_trekking_tour/...

Mid-May Wakin Peninsula Trekking The season is gradually warming up. It’s the perfect time to enjoy various activities! The trekking course on Wakin Peninsula includes some paved paths, making it a popular choice for those who want to acclimate before climbing the surrounding mountains. For those trekking, enjoy encounters with the unique flora and fauna of this season. And don’t forget your bear bell!🐻 Please make sure to confirm information in advance and engage in activities safely. https://www.masyuko.or.jp/enjoy/wakoto/...

Hello! Welcome to Jewelry Town! Right now, Shosenkyo Gorge is vibrant with fresh greenery, and the contrast between the blue sky and white clouds is incredibly beautiful this season. You can enjoy the refreshing breeze blowing through the mountains and the lush green scenery that spreads out before you. On the Shosenkyo ropeway, you can feel the wind while savoring the expanse of fresh greenery, and take in the views of Mt. Kinpu, the birthplace of crystals, and Arakawa Dam. At the summit, which exceeds 1,000 meters in elevation, you can see Mount Fuji on clear days, and a 30-minute walk will take you to the breathtaking Yasaburodake, a treasure trove of power spots. Our shop, located right next to the ropeway, has just received new rainbow-colored crystal balls. Please stop by to see the beautiful rainbows during your stroll! As it continues to be hot, don't forget to take measures against the heat. Enjoy nature!

【Mt. Atosanupuri Trekking Tour】 This year, the Mt. Atosanupuri Trekking Tour has begun!❣️ In this tour, we will introduce the main points of interest. Reservations can be made through Teshikagacho Navi or via the link in our stories🔗. Please check Teshikagacho Navi and our social media, and enjoy this special trekking tour!⛰️✨ 〈Mt. Atosanupuri Trekking Tour〉
Mt. Atosanupuri, meaning "naked mountain" in Ainu language, features approximately 1,500 fumaroles and beautiful yellow sulfur crystals surrounding them. It has been designated as a "specific natural tourism resource" in Teshikagacho, and the mountain is classified as a restricted area under Article 19 of the Eco-Tourism Promotion Act.

If you are looking for a special and valuable trekking tour, please join us.
Advance reservations are required, so don't forget!

Limited climbing tours led by certified guides / Winner of the Minister of the Environment Award at the 18th Eco-Tourism Awards.

May 17 In the satoyama of Azumino, the azaleas of Mount Hikarujo are in bloom Colorful azaleas are blooming at the summit From the summit, you can enjoy the view of the Northern Alps and the water-filled fields of Azumino!!

The Atosanupuri Trekking Tour will start again this year!❣️ Please check out Teshikagacho Navi and our social media for more information, and enjoy this special trekking tour!⛰️✨ Reservations can be made through Teshikagacho Navi or the link in our stories🔗. Next, we will introduce the main points of this tour. Stay tuned!! 〈Atosanupuri Trekking Tour〉
Atosanupuri means "naked mountain" in Ainu. With approximately 1500 fumaroles and beautiful yellow sulfur crystals surrounding them, it has been designated as a "specific natural tourism resource" of Teshikagacho, and the mountain is classified as a restricted area based on Article 19 of the Eco-Tourism Promotion Law.

If you are looking for a special and rare trekking tour, please join us.
Reservations are required in advance, so don't forget!

Limited climbing tours by certified guides / Winner of the Minister of the Environment Award at the 18th Eco-Tourism Awards.

【Tsutsujigahara Morning Walking Tour Starts!】 The season of the blooming Ezo Iso Tsutsuji has arrived. Would you like to take a stroll through Tsutsujigahara, connecting Kawayu Onsen and Mt. Io? The "Tsutsujigahara Morning Walking Tour," where you can observe the Ezo Iso Tsutsuji that will soon be at its peak, is starting! Since the course begins from Kawayu Onsen, you can enjoy the walk on the morning after staying in the hot spring town. <Guide to Tsutsujigahara Nature Trail> ■Period: June 1, 2025 – June 30, 2025 ■Time: Every morning at 6:00 AM (Total duration about 1 hour) Meeting at 5:55 AM, Departure at 6:00 AM. *Cancelled in case of rain ■Participation Fee: 500 yen for elementary school students and above (free for infants) *Cash payment at the venue ■Meeting Place: In front of Taiho Sumo Memorial Museum ■Application: Please fill out the application form by 7:00 PM the day before, including: ① Name of the representative ② Number of participants ③ Contact phone number ④ Name of your accommodation. You can access the application form via the QR code on the flyer. *If you cannot send the application, please call the office at 090-2512-3143. [ Notes ] ・This is a tour walking approximately 3 km from Kawayu Onsen to Mt. Io (returning from Mt. Io will be by car). ・Please participate in comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for movement. ・The tour will be cancelled in case of rain. Participants will be notified in case of cancellation. ・The content may change or be cancelled depending on the blooming status of the Iso Tsutsuji. ■Organizer: Akan-Mashu National Park Kawayu Area Management Association ■Contact: 090-2512-3143 (Yoshida) https://www.masyuko.or.jp/news/tsutsuji2026/...

I walked along the abandoned railway track in Akashina District, Azumino City. The cloudy sky and fresh greenery create a nostalgic atmosphere.😊 At the nearby Ushio Shinmei Shrine, preparations for the "Shibafune" are underway. The grand festival will be held on May 4th and 5th.

The scenery of Azumino, with its beautiful fresh greenery.

On April 23rd, Azumino enjoyed a sunny morning. The dogwood trees began to bloom, adding beauty to the landscape of Azumino. This is the northern part of Azumino, along the streets of Aokemi Industrial Park.

The former Japanese National Railways Shinonoi Line abandoned track in Azumino Walking here, you will find two brick tunnels One of them is the Urushikubo Tunnel😄 This charming tunnel was built in 1897 In the past, steam locomotives🚂 ran here.

Dam Park Ibarakita 53-1 Oaza Namihoko, Ibaraki City, Osaka Prefecture Parking: 100 yen for regular cars per 30 minutes (maximum 600 yen during the day) Temporary parking: Free Peak crowded periods Golden Week (late April to early May) Summer vacation period (late July to August) Silver Week (mid-September) The middle day of a three-day weekend Weekends and holidays A nature-rich park located around Aigawa Dam in the northern area of Ibaraki City (commonly known as Ibarakita). It features a dog run, facilities for markets and cooking, a park center, event plaza, outdoor stage, and open spaces. At the activity park "GRAVITATE OSAKA," visitors can enjoy views of Aigawa Dam from the pedestrian-only suspension bridge "GODA BRIDGE," which is approximately 420 meters long. Throughout the year, various events are held that allow visitors to enjoy nature, with activities suitable for children. Dam Park Ibarakita regularly hosts food trucks. Bringing your own bento is allowed Vending machines are available on-site. While drinks can be purchased, food sales may be limited, so bringing your own is recommended. Pets are allowed in the park. However, outside the dog run, pets must be on a leash that the owner can control (approximately 2 meters in length). It is prohibited to leave pet waste unattended.

Hello, this is Ryusuidō. Shosenkyo Gorge is enveloped in soft new greenery, welcoming a pleasant season🌿 The weeping cherry blossoms at Shōgyokudō in the Takigami area are gradually turning into leaf blossoms, but they are doing their best to greet everyone😊 The mountain rose (yamabuki) blooming close to the rocky surface also reminds us of the season!❗️ Shosenkyo is also famous as the birthplace of the April birthstone, crystal. It can be used for everything from accessories to interior decor and is said to be a "universal stone" that brings good fortune, purification, and protection, making it suitable for anyone✨ In the Takigami area, there are many spots where you can forget your daily routine and have fun, such as the Hachushuike, where you can toss in eight balls for wishes, so please come visit Shosenkyo‼ All of our staff are looking forward to the day we can see your wonderful smiles😊

April 13 Azumino Cherry Blossom Blooming Information The cherry blossoms at the famous spot in Azumino, Mount Hikarujo, are in full bloom!! This year, they reached the summit in no time. The cherry blossoms on Mount Hikarujo are planted along the hiking trail, blooming like a "rising dragon" from the trailhead to the summit♪ Please be careful as parking is limited for those driving!

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...

March 23rd A gloriously clear, sunny day in Azumino Many hikers at the summit of Mount Nagamine were enjoying this view!! Today even hang gliders made an appearance

March 5th From the summit of Mount Nagamine in Azumino’s satoyama, you can enjoy a sky-high view Views of Azumino town and the Northern Alps The forest road is still closed for the winter, so please climb on foot and work up a sweat♪

Hello everyone, this is Jewelry Town. Shosenkyo Gorge, a Japan Heritage site, is bathed in the soft light of spring and welcomes a season of crisp, refreshing air🏞️ At Arakawa Dam, early-blooming kanhizakura cherry blossoms have begun to open, giving a sense that spring has arrived🌸 Ride the ropeway up to 1,058 meters and, on a clear day, you can see the distant, beautiful Mount Fuji🗻 Nearby, Jewelry Town stands quietly, where a variety of raw stones, including power stones inspired by the 2026 zodiac sign 🐎, rest peacefully, creating a space that gently comforts the hearts of visitors🤗 Surrounded by the calm of nature, why not take your time and find that one favorite stone in a relaxed moment💎 Enjoy a gentle, peaceful springtime experience that softly colors the season✨ Please do stop by when you can. All of our staff warmly await your visit.

🌸 Hike the highest peak of Shimoshima Island, Amakusa, and enjoy a spectacular azalea walk! 🌸 On Sunday, April 19, join the “Spring Tenjiku Azalea Walk for Health”✨ The setting is Tenjiku, the highest peak on Shimoshima Island, Amakusa, located in Reihoku. At this time of year, the summit greets visitors with azaleas in full bloom. The contrast between fresh green leaves and the azaleas creates a truly breathtaking view! Would you like to walk an out-and-back course of about 11 km while feeling the pleasant spring breeze? After descending, a tasty onigiri boxed lunch included in the participation fee will be waiting for you🍙 This event is limited to the first 100 people. Bring your family and friends and enjoy spring in Amakusa together! 🎁 This event qualifies for Kumamoto Health Points (20 points). 📅 Event Details 〇 Date: Sunday, April 19, 2026 [Registration] 8:30 AM – [Departure ceremony] 9:30 AM ※Held in light rain; canceled in heavy rain 〇 Meeting place: Amakusa Kiba no Mori Nature School (site of Kiba Elementary School) 📍 Search Google Maps for “Amakusa Kiba no Mori Nature School” 〇 Course: Approx. 11.0 km round trip 〇 Participation fee (includes onigiri boxed lunch and insurance) ・Elementary school age and older: 1,000 yen ・Preschool children: Free (boxed lunch can be ordered separately for 500 yen) 〇 Capacity: First 100 applicants 〇 Registration deadline: Tuesday, April 14, 2026, by 5:00 PM 👉 How to apply Please apply through the application form on the homepage linked in the profile URL. We look forward to your participation!