Dripping Deer Soy Sauce There is a team working hard towards the launch of a certain product. That "certain product" is deer soy sauce. Nishiokoppe Village is an area where Yezo sika deer are abundant. To prevent damage to crops and forests, as well as traffic accidents, hunters capture deer and process the meat at the village's wildlife processing center. By fermenting the protein contained in the meat, soy sauce can be made. If it can be made from pork, then it should also be possible to make soy sauce from the meat of Yezo sika deer and brown bears. Villagers who agreed with the idea of the proposer began making soy sauce in December 2024, with the help of experts. The part used was the neck meat of the Yezo sika deer. This part, which is tough and fatty, was often discarded as it was difficult to handle as meat. In the work I participated in, we were in the process of squeezing and filtering the meat that had been aged for three months. The liquid extracted under pressure from the juicer was repeatedly filtered using cloth, coffee filters, and filter paper, taking time to remove excess fat and protein. Initially, the liquid flowed smoothly down, but gradually it began to drip more slowly. With each round of filtering, the dripping droplets became clearer and sparkled. It feels like you can sense the vitality of the Yezo sika deer that lived in the nature of Nishiokoppe Village. - Alongside production, preparations for sales such as choosing packaging are underway. We are sharing information about deer soy sauce and bear soy sauce on Instagram @sanganosizuku, so please check it out. We hope you look forward to the launch.

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.

🪵Event Announcement🪵 On Saturday, July 4th, we will hold a lecture titled "Observing Trees – A Forester's Perspective on Tree Guidebooks" at the Kawayu Visitor Center! We are inviting Masayuki Hayashi, a renowned author of numerous tree guidebooks, to share insights on the characteristics of trees and the creatures of the forest from a unique perspective as a guidebook author🌱 No prior reservation or application is required, and admission is free! We look forward to your participation🌲✨

Introducing Rental Bicycles 🚲🚲 At the Roadside Station Nakazatsunai, we offer rental bicycles called "Peachari" for convenient travel and sightseeing within the village 😊 Choose between two types of bicycles: "regular bicycles" and "electric bicycles," based on your physical strength‼️ The popular tourist spot "Rokka no Mori" is about 1 km from the Roadside Station Nakazatsunai, which takes approximately 5 minutes by bicycle 🎵 Why not use the Roadside Station Nakazatsunai as your base and explore the village by bicycle for unforgettable memories? To apply, please visit the general information desk located in the "Country Plaza" at the Roadside Station Nakazatsunai 🤗 🔶Rental Period: From Friday, April 24 to Sunday, October 25 🔶Rental Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM 🔶Rates ●Regular Bicycle: 200 yen for 4 hours ●Electric Bicycle: 200 yen for 2 hours 🔶Access 🚗About 40 minutes by car from Obihiro Station, and about 20 minutes by car from Obihiro Airport 🚗 🚌About 1 hour by bus from Obihiro Station (nearest stop: get off at Roadside Station Nakazatsunai) *Important Notes 📍Rental bicycles are not available for advance reservations. Thank you for your understanding. 📍The use of Peachari is restricted to within the village. 📍Please return by 5:00 PM. 🔶Contact Information Nakazatsunai Village Tourism Association TEL 0155-68-3390 (8:30 AM to 5:15 PM) https://kankou-nakasatsunai.com//

【A Summer Retreat Behind the Hotel】 You can feel the temperature rising significantly, and the hot summer is approaching. It's a relief that the morning and evening breezes are still cool.🎐🍃 For those who want to enjoy a refreshing atmosphere, Kourakuen, a pure Japanese garden behind Hotel Morimu, is highly recommended. The spring foliage and azaleas stand out beautifully against the greenery. The white flowers are called Asebi. Written in kanji, it is 「馬酔木」. The leaves are toxic, and horses that eat them can become numb in their legs and have difficulty walking. This is how it got the name Asebi. The gazebo within the garden is perfect for potluck picnics or leisurely tea time. The sound of leaves rustling in the breeze and the chirping of little birds will soothe your ears.

Hirasawa, Shizuoka Prefecture. This is a quiet sea in Japan that can be visited as a day trip from Tokyo. From late spring to early summer, a special scenery appears in this sea. A forest of seaweed extending to the water's surface. A gently swaying green world. Soft light filtering through. It feels as if a forest is spreading underwater. As you quietly swim between the seaweeds, small blue fish appear. In the shadows of the rocks, small lives grow in the spring sea. These seaweed areas are called "moba" in Japan. They are important places where many fish and marine creatures live. From spring to early summer, it is also the spawning season for the bigfin reef squid. The changing scenery of the sea with each season is one of the charms of Japan's waters. The sea of Hirasawa is a bit different from the tropical seas of Okinawa. It lacks flamboyance. However, it possesses a quiet beauty. Light filtering through the seaweed. A time when only the sound of waves can be heard. The slowly flowing underwater scenery. You can feel the gentle air typical of Japan's nature. At Hokule'a Shonan, we offer guidance centered around the sea of Kanagawa and Izu, which can be enjoyed as a day trip from the Tokyo area. With a small group, even beginners can feel at ease. English support is also available. Experience the time of Japan's sea that cannot be encountered just by visiting tourist spots. It is recommended for those looking for "an experience in Japan that is more than just diving." Related Keywords: Hirasawa Diving / Nishi-Izu Diving / Izu Diving / Diving Near Tokyo / Japan Diving / Dive Near Tokyo / Japan Diving / Hidden Japan / Japanese Ocean Experience / Tokyo Day Trip

The large-flowered bellflower at Bansai Fureai no Mori is in full bloom! The large-flowered bellflower is blooming in the "Fureai no Mori" that spreads along the way from Bansai Onsen to Horokayantou. Be sure to visit this natural flower field where you can feel the arrival of spring! For tourist information about Taiki Town, click here! https://visit-taiki.hokkaido.jp//

The Akanko Forest Night Walk KAMUY LUMINA 2026 season will grand open today, May 26th (Tuesday)! This season, enjoy the world of sound and light inspired by folk tales that color the forests of Lake Akanko!♪ https://www.kamuylumina.jp//

6/16 Held in Ishizuchi Kechromoji Essential Oil Extraction / Plant Dyeing Experience. I enjoyed a part of the high-grade Japanese essential oil extraction work and the experience of dyeing a silk scarf using Kuromoji. During the work, you can learn about the forests of the Mt. Ishizuchi range from the instructor. This year's trial session will be held in September. Thereare a few slots left. Why don't you relax at the foothills of Mt. Ishizuchi? Souvenirs of essential oils, distilled water and scarves are included! 9/15 (Mon) 10:00~13:30 Location: Ishizuchi Fureai no Sato 〒793-0214 25-1 Nakaoku, Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture Experience fee: 6,000 yen (tax included) / person Lecturer, lunch, etc. Capacity: 8 people *First-come, first-served basis Reservations and inquiries: Saijo City Tourism and Products Association 0897-56-2605

Is it a heron couple? That's what I thought. I felt that the pure white wings of the heron on the deep green were very clear and beautiful, so I stood here and took a picture. I don't usually take pictures of birds, but when I see a heron, I just snap the shutter.

"Notice" The Kanazu Sozonomori Art Museum is Held in the "Yusuke Asai Exhibition" until August 25. Not only are the works in museums, but they are also on display in the woods, and it seems 📍 that there are three places where it is fun 😊to look for them Mr./Ms. Asai creates works using familiar materials such as soil and stones, draws pictures everywhere, and exhibits many works that can be felt and felt with the five senses You can 🉑 take off your shoes and walk around to feel and touch the work. This is quite an interesting and mysterious experience 💦💦 【Kanazu Creative Forest Museum】 Held in: Saturday, April 27, 2024 ~ Sunday, August 25, 2024 ▪️ Address Awara City Miyatani 57-2-19 ▪️ Opening Hours: 10:00-17:00 last at 16:30 ▪️ Closed on Mondays open on national holidays, closed on the following weekday *Open on Tuesday, August 13 ▪️ Admission fee: Adults 600 yen 400 yen, 65 years old and over and people with Persons with disabilities 300 yen, Caregivers of high school students and younger and Persons with disabilities 1 caregiver per Persons with disabilities free of charge Discounts for groups of 20 or more people in parentheses

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Video! This is Nagiso Tourism Association. Nagiso town in Kiso District, Nagano Prefecture, is a town of about 3,600 people located in the southwest of Nagano Prefecture. Ninety-four percent of the town is forest, and about 70 percent of that is national forest. The town is made up of seven areas: Yogawa, northern Kakizore, Midono, Tsumago, Araragi, Hirose, and Tadachi. In Cool Japan Video we will introduce Nagiso town’s charms in depth, so please look forward to it! ◆History of Nagiso town, Nagano Prefecture◆ Nagiso prospered during the Edo period as a post town on the Nakasendo, the route connecting Kyoto and Edo. Tsumago inn and Midono inn still preserve the old streetscapes where travelers once met and culture flourished. ◆Tourist attractions in Nagiso town, Nagano Prefecture◆ Tenpaku azalea colony Located in Tenpaku Park, this massive colony of mitsuba azaleas is designated a town natural monument. At peak season in spring, some 400 azalea plants paint the park in beautiful pinks and whites. From the park’s hill you can also get views of Mount Kiso-Komagatake and the surrounding landscape. Tsumago Yado Preservation District Maintained as the 42nd post town from Edo on the Nakasendo, Tsumago still strongly reflects the atmosphere of the Edo period. In 1976 it was designated a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. At Wakihonjin Okuya you can experience traditional life around an irori hearth. Strolling the old streets lets you feel the timeless romance of travel. Kakizore Canyon Considered one of the most beautiful gorges along the Kiso Road. In spring you’ll see azaleas and rhododendrons, and in autumn the canyon’s foliage is stunning, making it a year-round scenic spot. Using the nature trails and riverside walkways, you can view granite-carved falls such as Ushigataki Waterfall and Kiriga Falls. Tadachi Falls The name Tadachi Falls collectively refers to waterfalls in the Otaki River gorge, including Uru Falls, Rasen Falls, Senshin Falls, Kiriga Falls, Amakawa Falls, Fudo Falls, and Somen Waterfall. In 1990 Tadachi Falls was selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls, and in 2020 it became part of Central Alps National Park. Yogawa Michi Yogawa Michi arose as a detour route when the Nakasendo became impassable due to flooding of the Kiso River. The moss-covered roadside stones and bamboo thickets along the forest road make it an excellent hiking course. Momosuke Bridge Completed in 1922 more than 100 years ago, this 247-meter wooden bridge is the largest wooden bridge in Japan. In 1994 it was designated a National Important Cultural Property. MtNagiso At 1,677 meters, MtNagiso was historically a mountain for Shugendo ascetic practice. The climbing routes offer steep and gentle slopes as well as chain sections. It is popular as a mountain that is accessible for day hikes. ◆Local specialties of Nagiso town, Nagano Prefecture◆ Surrounded by forests, Nagiso has long preserved woodcraft traditions. ‘Nagiso rokuro zaiku,’ a traditional technique in which boards and logs are turned on a lathe and planed with a kanna, is carefully crafted by artisans one piece at a time. The delicate beauty created by generations of skilled craftsmen captivates many people. ◆Festivals and events in Nagiso town, Nagano Prefecture◆ Tadachi Hanauma Festival Held each October to give thanks for a bountiful harvest, this festival features three Kiso horses adorned with saddles slowly parading through town. In 1993 it was designated a Nagano Prefecture Intangible Folk Cultural Property. ◆Tourist information for Nagiso town, Nagano Prefecture◆ Nagiso town, Nagano Prefecture, offers magnificent natural scenery and a rich history that make it an appealing destination. Please come and spend memorable moments surrounded by Nagiso’s beautiful nature and history. Cool Japan Video will continue to share recommended and up-to-date information about Nagiso town, so thank you for your support.

Hello! This is Agematsu Tourism Association. Agematsu Town, Nagano Prefecture, sits in the southwest of Nagano, at the heart of the Kiso Valley along the upper reaches of the Kiso River. The town boasts rich history and beautiful nature that continue to charm visitors. ◆◆History of Agematsu Town, Nagano Prefecture◆◆ During the Edo period, Agematsu Town was the 38th post town on the Nakasendo, which linked Edo and Kyoto. The stretch from Koumatsu-juku to Suhara-juku is the longest on the Kiso Road, and the area thrived as a rest stop for many travelers. You can still feel that history at sites such as the Kiso Plank and Nezame-no-toko Gorge. Guided Nakasendo walking tours led by veteran guides are available to help you create lasting travel memories. Agematsu Town has long prospered as a forestry town producing high-quality timber, notably Kiso hinoki (Japanese cypress), and is known as the “village of hinoki.” ◆◆Popular sights in Agematsu Town, Nagano Prefecture◆◆ ◇Nezame-no-toko Gorge The Kiso River has carved the granite into squared formations that look like large boxes lined up. A local legend says Urashima Taro opened his tamatebako (treasure box) here. ◇Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest This recreation forest features natural Kiso hinoki trees over 300 years old and was an early site of forest protection measures some 400 years ago. Seven walking trails wind through the forest, and paid experiences such as forest therapy are available. Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest is regarded as the birthplace of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing. The term “forest bathing” was coined in 1982, and that year the first national forest bathing event was held here at Akasawa. ◇Akasawa Forest Railway A 2.2-kilometer round-trip tourist trolley runs through Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest; it was once used to transport timber. You can enjoy forest bathing while riding the railway. The Forest Railway Memorial Museum displays a steam locomotive from the railway’s opening era. ◇Kiso Komagatake The highest peak of the Central Alps, Kiso Komagatake rises to 2,956 meters. A ropeway climbs to 2,612 meters, offering Japan’s greatest elevation gain by ropeway. ◇Kiso Old Road, a natural trail This route linked the north and south of Kiso before the Nakasendo was developed. A hiking course on the Kiso plateau at about 1,000 meters elevation offers expansive natural views. ◆◆Events and festivals loved in Agematsu Town, Nagano Prefecture◆◆ ◇Komagatake Shrine Annual Festival Held every year on May 3, the festival features the nationally designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property performance “Daidai Kagura 13 Seats.” You can see pieces such as the four tengu dance “Shijin Gokae-hai” and the sword dance “Sanken no Mai.” ◆◆Local specialties of Agematsu Town, Nagano Prefecture◆◆ Local specialties include gohei-mochi, sunkki (fermented turnip), and hooba-maki (hoja leaf-wrapped dishes). These regional foods offer rich, distinctive flavors you can enjoy only here. ◆◆Why visit Agematsu Town, Nagano Prefecture◆◆ Agematsu Town charms visitors with its abundant nature and deep history. From the dramatic landscapes of Nezame-no-toko Gorge and Kiso Komagatake to the extraordinary forest bathing at Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest and the sense of history you feel walking the Nakasendo, Agematsu offers many attractions. Leave everyday life behind and enjoy a restorative trip filled with nature, history, and culture in Agematsu Town. Cool Japan Video will continue to share recommended information about Agematsu Town. Thank you for your support.

It is a jizo that is enshrined near the ruins of the inn of Camphor Tree Kubo, which used to be on the Kumano Kodo and Ōuntori-etsu. I think it was enshrined as a memorial service for those who died on the way to the pilgrimage.

It is a Minami Mukan Seon Bodhisattva stone located on the Kumano Kodo and Ōuntori crossing. What did the ancients wish for and what did they think when they walked this path?

I would like to leave this lush wild mountain and quiet rural landscape to future generations. #Superb view #Photo Contest

Nature of Hokkaido

The scenery ☁️ I saw yesterday on the highway because of the bad weather

It's a sunset from home! In autumn in Hokkaido, it is already cold in the evening, but it is beautiful, so I just want to go out and take pictures in light clothes!

One day, in the ♬ woods Sobue, Inazawa, Aichi Kiso Mikawa Park Wild Nature Plaza

[October Events] Summer has passed and a hint of autumn is starting to drift through Nishiokoppe. How is it in your area? Today we bring you information about October events 📢 1) Friday, October 6 — Starts at 18:30 The puppet troupe Pook comes to Nishiokoppe Village! A puppet theater circle formed within the village, Doremi, serves on the organizing committee, and they will be waiting for everyone at the venue. Location: The large hall at Hotel Morimu Tickets are on sale. 2) Saturday, October 7 — 13:30–16:00 For those who want to warm up by a bonfire For those who love roasted sweet potatoes Join us around the bonfire at the BBQ house behind Hotel Morimu! 3) Saturday, October 7 — Starts at 18:30 An acoustic guitar concert by Chuuei Yoshikawa! Don’t miss guest performances by village residents. Location: The large hall at Hotel Morimu Admission: ¥2,000 (free for junior high school students and younger) 4) Saturday, October 14 — Starts at 18:00 Twin artist duo VOICE is coming! Enjoy light bites and all-you-can-drink while you watch. Location: The large hall at Hotel Morimu Ticket price: ¥4,000 *Application deadline: October 10* 5) Sunday, October 15 — From 11:00 At Burari Cafe We will host finger yoga, lunch, and an aroma session! A soothing space awaits here＿＿. Please reserve lunch by the day before! Aroma and yoga require no reservation. 6) Saturday–Sunday, October 28–29 Greenwoodworking workshop! Jam spoons or butter knives, small plates, curry spoons Why not try making one of your favorites with your own hands? Location: Komu Museum of Art 7) Saturday, October 28 — 10:00–12:00 As a Halloween event we will hold craft bag making and a puppet show! There will also be time to walk around hunting for sweets. Location: Community Center and Library October, the season of school cultural festivals, brings even more events!! Please come and fully enjoy autumn in Nishiokoppe.

An annual forest range. As long as one of the barks is peeled, after two years, the fir will slowly die. The purpose of this is to avoid excessive density of fir forests that affect the ecology of the ground. I heard that some traditional buildings in Kyoto use peeled cedar veneer to build roofs.

Akaiwa Falls Following Gyōja Falls, which I introduced last time, I present Akaiwa Falls, known for its brick-colored riverbed! You reach Gyōja Falls quickly, but beyond that, the path to Akaiwa Falls plunges through a densely overgrown mountain trail. Just when you start to wonder if you are still on the right path, you should find a parking area. From the parking area to Akaiwa Falls, it’s about a five-minute walk down to the plunge pool. The walk down is easy, but the climb back up can be a bit taxing on adults who lack exercise. When you arrive at the plunge pool, the contrast of red and green is beautifully striking. It’s lovely to gaze at the falls, but if you look up at the trees surrounding the cascade, you’ll feel refreshingly uplifted. When you visit, please wear footwear that can get dirty and won’t slip, such as rubber boots, rather than fashionable shoes.

Three Waterfalls in Nishiokoppe Village The other day I visited one of Nishiokoppe Village’s sightseeing spots —Gyōja Falls, Akaiwa Falls, and Kuroiwa Falls. This time I’m writing about Gyōja Falls! From National Route 239 you turn onto a mountain road and the first waterfall you come to is Gyōja Falls. When I got out of the car in front of a stone plaque with some explanation on it, I could hear the cool sound of the falls! On a certain day in August, unable to bear the heat, there was said to be an adult who stood under Gyōja Falls in a T-shirt and shorts—whether true or not is another story. Next time I will introduce Akaiwa Falls.

Sueyoshigu It is the Torii (shrine gate) of Sueyoshi Shrine, one of the eight Ryukyu shrines. There are two entrances, but I entered from the approach to the temple above this forest. What surprised me was that the moment I stood in front of the Torii (shrine gate), the air changed so much that I couldn't help but speak! I'm surprised. There is a sacred air in the air.

Sueyoshi Shrine I went to "Sueyoshi Shrine" in Shuri Sueyoshi, Naha City. It is one of the same eight Ryukyu companies as the Naminoue Shrine I introduced last time. I think it is the most impactful shrine among the eight shrines. Unfortunately, everything collapsed in the Battle of Okinawa, but it was restored. The worship hall is located in a small forest and overlooks the center of Naha City. The red tiles, white plaster, and vermilion paint are vivid, and there are few people who come to worship, and it feels like a secluded area.

🌳 A forest bathing spot close to the station: Hokkaido University Tomakomai Research Forest 🐿️ Located about a 15-minute drive from Tomakomai Station, Hokkaido University Tomakomai Research Forest was established in 1904 as the research forest for Hokkaido University’s Faculty of Agriculture. Many wild birds live here, including black woodpeckers, long-tailed tit, belted kingfisher, and mallards, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching 🦆💦 The research forest also houses the Forest Reference Museum and Memorial Hall, where taxidermy animals and forestry-related materials are on display! 💁‍♀️ The Forest Reference Museum and Memorial Hall used to open only on the last Friday of the month, but starting Saturday, June 24, it will be open every Saturday!! 🎉✨ Why not enjoy some forest bathing at the nature-rich Hokkaido University Tomakomai Research Forest? 🌳 [ Hokkaido University Tomakomai Research Forest ] ≪ Address ≫ Takaoaka, Tomakomai City, Hokkaido 053-0035 ≪ Contact ≫ 0144-33-2171 ≪ Hours ≫ Forest Reference Museum and Memorial Hall: Saturdays from April through October, 9:00–15:30 ※ Hours and closed days may change, so please check before visiting.

The morning sun shines from the fresh green of spring... Mt. Rokko in Kobe has been redressed! !! The photo is a morning scene taken near the ridge of the Omote Rokko Driveway in mid-April. I climbed the hill on a road bike, but it was a pleasant cycling that felt moderately sweaty I climbed slowly. Mt. Rokko was opened as a leisure mountain by foreigners in the Meiji era, and Arthur Herkes Groom, who built the first mountain villa, is called the "founder of Mt. Rokko." The first mountain villa was built at a place called Mikuni Pond after climbing the driveway in the photo to the ridge. From there, foreigners and Japan people built mountain villas one after another, forming a village. It seems that there are no mountain villas left from that time now, but you can still see many recreation centers of various companies in the vicinity. Even if you actually climb on a road bike, you can meet foxes, raccoons, woodpeckers, squirrels, moles and monkeys, and you can feel that you have come to nature in a different world from the city. How about 😊 forest bathing for a mental retreat this spring?

Tottori Prefecture Okudaiyama Kitanisawa Gorge It is a very beautiful mossy clear stream flowing at the foot of Mt. Oyama.

Okinawa rail Ecological Exhibition and Learning Facility In Kunigami Village in the northern part of the main island of Okinawa, there is the "Okinawa rail Ecology Exhibition and Learning Facility Kuina Forest", and there is a Okinawa rail "Kuta". It is friendly to see through the glass. It's hard to see wild Okinawa rail, but you can see them up close here, so come and see them.