Hello, this is Minamoto🖐️ The temperature is gradually rising, and once the rainy season is over, summer will be in full swing☀️ During this time of year, Shosenkyo Gorge showcases the most beautiful greenery throughout the year🌿 The soft light green of spring transforms into a deep, vibrant green, nourished by ample rain and sunlight, allowing you to enjoy a landscape full of vitality☘️ Additionally, Senga Falls sees an increase in water volume, and the powerful cascade creates a natural mist💦 that rises. It's the perfect time to feel the negative ions all around you, unique to this season✨ The area around the waterfall basin is refreshingly cool, like a natural air conditioner, making it very pleasant😃 The temperature is lower than in the urban areas, making it an ideal season for hiking, but please prepare drinks🥤 and hats🧢 as a precaution against heatstroke🙇 Moreover, areas around Senga Falls and stairs can be slippery, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes👟 when you go out‼️ Be sure to fully enjoy the "most beautiful gorge in Japan" that can only be seen during this time of year😊 If you have time, please come visit Shosenkyo✨ All of our staff are looking forward to welcoming you❗

The hydrangeas during the rainy season are enchanting.

Introduction of Tsuba from Wakedō Item Number: E380701 Title: Ohsyukubai Tsuba Signature: Hohshinsai Toshikage Ganji koushi ki aki (kao) AD1864 Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Hozon Tousougu Dimensions: Length 66mm Width 58.5mm Thickness 2.5mm Period: AD1864 School: Touryusai school Explanation The Touryusai school was founded by Kiyotoshi Tanaka, who was born in the first year of the Bunka era and was known to have connections with Haruaki Hōgen. The school developed a clever style known as the Touryusai style, training many disciples, including Toshikage, Toshimune, and Toshimura. Toshikage, also known as Matsugorō Morikawa, used the names Hohshinsai and Hōmei-sai, creating animal and plant designs in the Touryusai style. His skills were high, and he was a fine craftsman of the Touryusai school. This piece is a tsuba depicting the Ohsyukubai (plum tree) in the Touryusai style, featuring a silver inlay with a carved design on the back, which is very characteristic of the Touryusai style. It showcases the craftsmanship of Toshikage and is a remarkable piece with significant age. Ohsyukubai During the reign of Emperor Murakami, the emperor ordered a magnificent plum tree from the residence of Ki no Tsurayuki's daughter because the plum tree in Seiryōden had withered. The daughter replied with a poem, saying, "If it is the emperor's command, I will gladly offer it, but what should I say if the nightingale that visits every year asks, 'Where is my home?'" The emperor was moved by this elegant response and returned the plum tree to its original garden.

Hello 😃 and welcome to the Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Senga Falls store! 🍷✨【A day to brighten your heart at Shosenkyo Gorge during the rainy season ☔️🌿】 In this season, the trees soaked by the rain shine even more vividly in Shosenkyo Gorge. At Senga Falls, selected as one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls, the abundant water cascades powerfully, gently healing visitors with its impressive splashes and deep greenery.✨ It's a beautiful scenery that can only be experienced during the rainy season. Just walking around feels like washing away the damp mood. 🍃 And to wrap up your journey… 🍾✨ Enjoy a refreshing sparkling wine made from Yamanashi grapes at the Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Senga Falls store. 🥂 The crisp bubbles and fruity aroma make the aftertaste of your stroll even more special. Choosing a bottle after soaking in the negative ions of the falls will surely become an unforgettable travel memory. "Today is a treat for myself." How about taking home your favorite bottle with that feeling? ✨ We sincerely look forward to your visit! 😊

The hydrangeas during the rainy season are captivating.

Hydrangeas in the rainy season. They brighten my heart.

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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■

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 😊

Fukoji Temple's Hydrangeas ❚ Blooming Status as of June 17, 2026 Fukoji Temple, located in Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, is also famous as a tourist spot for hydrangeas. Currently, the hydrangeas are in full bloom. Some of the early-blooming flowers have started to wilt a bit. We will keep you updated on the blooming status. 【Location】Upper Oozuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture 【Access】About a 10-minute drive from JR Asaji Station 【Parking】Available (free) 【Restroom】Available ❚ Fukoji Temple The rock-carved Buddha in the temple grounds is approximately 11 meters tall, including its pedestal, making it one of the largest rock-carved Buddhas in Japan. The central figure is Fudo Myoo (Fudo Myo-o). Fudo Myoo is depicted with an angry expression, but this rock-carved Buddha has weathered the elements for many years and now has a round, gentle face. Although it is a large Fudo Myoo, it has a very friendly appearance. Fukoji Temple is also known as "Hydrangea Temple" due to the numerous hydrangeas planted there. During the rainy season, you can see many blooming hydrangeas alongside the rock-carved Buddha. The hydrangeas are cared for by the temple and the local community. ■■■ Access to the Center of Bungoono City ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour and 20-minute drive from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour and 20-minute drive from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Tourism and Recommended Spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

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

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 😊😊😊.

EXPO 2025 Official Cafe "LINKS UMEDA" Location: 1st Floor, LINKS UMEDA (1-1 Ofuka-cho, Kita-ku, Osaka) Operating Period: From Monday, April 27, 2026 to Saturday, October 31, 2026 Business Hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Last Order: 8:00 PM for dining in, 9:00 PM for takeout) Purchased "Myakumyaku-yaki" Chewy texture... a subtle feeling I also got a Myakumyaku sticker, so that's good... As a souvenir...

A season lacking in the colors of the earth. With the blooming of the plum blossoms, winter seems to change its name to "early spring." The blue sky and plum blossoms. And the vivid contrast of the long-tailed tit has painted a "sign" in the cold air.

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.

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. 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.

March 18th Spring has arrived in Azumino Plum blossoms have begun to bloom at Daio Wasabi Farm, and the red and white hues stand out against the wasabi fields

"A Sanctuary Perfumed with Plum Blossoms" Kitano Tenmangu, Kyoto. Amid the moss‑covered branches of an ancient plum tree, red and white flowers vie for attention as shrine priests in white robes move quietly through the grounds. The plum trees loved by Sugawara no Michizane, the kami of scholarship, once again color the precincts this year, standing dignified and fragrant even under a cloudy sky.

“An Afternoon in the Plum Garden” The plum garden at Suishinin Temple in Kyoto. On a spring afternoon, bright red field umbrellas glow against the scene as fully bloomed red plums spread their branches toward the blue sky. At the ancient temple associated with Ono no Komachi, spring has returned unchanged again this year. The backs of people holding parasols quietly blend into this gentle moment.

“Plum Reflections of Silence” — Spring at Umegomiya Taisha Shrine’s Sacred Garden — In the sacred garden of Umegomiya Taisha Shrine, an ancient stone bridge stands quietly over the pond as blooming plum trees melt into the water’s surface. Pink and purple blossoms sway in the reflective water, where the springtime of Kyo gently comes to life.

Photographed on March 1, 2014. The white plum blossoms at Kameya Honten were in full bloom.

I photographed this scene in the plum grove of Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s three most celebrated gardens. In this historic garden I sought to capture the passage of time played by the plums and the quiet vitality hidden within them, rendering both with a dreamlike interplay of light that blurs dream and reality. A single drooping branch holds a few delicate pink blossoms, and countless floating orbs of light—bokeh—wrap around them. Those many bokeh spheres symbolize layers of time linking past and future and the glitter of innumerable lives. I composed the shot to lead the eye to the central blossom, emphasizing its fleeting beauty and refined dignity.

Tsukigase Plum Valley Ume Festival Now ongoing! Thanks to the cold weather, the plum blossoms are likely to last longer✨ The area around Lakeside Village Tsukigase is at its best, too✨ Photo courtesy of yasunori okamoto

Photographed on February 18, 2014. The red plum blossoms line the approach to Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine. 🌸

Photographed on February 20, 2014. These are the red plum blossoms along the approach to Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine. 🌸

Photographed on February 18, 2014. These are the red plum blossoms along the approach to Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine. 🌸

Tsukigase Plum Valley Plum Festival Now underway! At its peak♪ Please come and visit! This Sunday looks like it will be busy again. Saturday, which we worried about weather-wise, looks fine✨ Photo courtesy of Yasunori Okamoto

Tsukigase Plum Valley Plum Festival Now underway! At its peak♪ Please come during a quiet weekday moment! It looks like this Sunday will be crowded again. The weather is a concern, but visitors who come on Saturday will likely be able to enjoy it more leisurely✨ Photo credit: Yasunori Okamoto

Tsukigase Plum Valley Plum Festival Now on! At peak bloom♪ Please come during a calm weekday time! On the hill opposite the Plum Museum stands a splendid weeping plum tree✨ Photo courtesy: Yasuki Okamoto

Tsukigase Plum Valley Plum Festival Now underway! More areas are coming into full bloom♪ Please come and visit! Photo credit: Yasunori Okamoto

Tsukigase Plum Valley Plum Festival Now ongoing! More areas are coming into full bloom♪ Please come and visit! Photo credit::Mr. Yasuki Okamoto