Miike Port is famous for its beautiful sunsets. For about one week each year in November and January—when the sunset direction measures 247 degrees clockwise from north—a straight “lane of light” appears, stretching from the end of the shipping channel through the open gate. Combined with the surrounding factories, it has become a popular spot for photography. To help visitors capture more beautiful, photogenic images, Pier No. 1 of Miike Port, which is normally off-limits, is opened as a photo point. Please take in this special sight, which appears only twice a year. ☆ Pier No. 1 opening period: November 16, 2025 (Sunday)–November 22, 2025 (Saturday) January 18, 2026 (Sunday)–January 24, 2026 (Saturday) ☆ Pier No. 1 opening hours: November ▶ 16:15–17:30 / January ▶ 16:45–18:00 ☆ Sunset times during the periods: November ▶ around 17:15 / January ▶ around 17:45 ☆ Location: Miike Port Observation Point and Pier No. 1, Shinko-cho, Omuta City ☆ Parking: Miike Port Observation Point (parking is available until 30 minutes after Pier No. 1 closing time) ※ If you come by car, please use the parking lot. ※ Do not park on surrounding roads. The event will be canceled in case of rain. For the latest information and details, please check here. Contact Omuta City Tourism Omotenashi Section Phone number 0944412750

Notice about New Year opening hours for the Manda Pit area. Today is the last day of operations for 2025. Thank you to everyone who visited in 2025. We will reopen on Sunday, January 4, 2026 at 9:30 AM. The winter light filtering through the brick scenery creates a quiet, photogenic moment. Don’t forget your camera. 🕘 Opening day Sunday, January 4, 2026 at 9:30 AM • Manda Pit Station • Manda Pit Site • Manda Coal Mine Museum • Marugoto Arao Bussankan Hours 11:00–16:30 Mornings, especially early hours, are often a peaceful time to explore, so we recommend them. All our staff look forward to welcoming you. Please add this to your plans #Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture https://arao-kankou.jp/oshirase/16514/...

Commemorating the Osaka-Kansai Expo: Kofun Summit 🌈 🔴In honor of the Osaka-Kansai Expo🔵, we will explore the value and appeal of the Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group from an international perspective🌏, comparing them with sites such as Petra in Jordan and India’s stone tombs. Attendees on the day will be entered into a lottery to win hot air balloon ride tickets✨ Please be sure to apply❁❁❁ 📅 Date and Time: Saturday, November 29, 1:00 PM–3:30 PM 📍 Venue: Fenice Sakai Large Hall (2-1-1 Onihashi-cho, Sakai Ward) Admission: Free Capacity: 1,700 people (first-come, first-served application) 💁 For details, search for "Kofun Summit"! 🔗https://www.city.sakai.lg.jp/.../r07/r07kofunsummit.html... ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ 🔷 Concurrent Special Exhibition and Kofun Goods Sale (no registration required) Location: Fenice Sakai Galleria Time: 12:00 PM–4:30 PM 🔶 Concurrent Children’s Theater Park (no registration required) Location: Fenice Sakai Onihashi Park Time: 11:00 AM–6:00 PM 💁 More details here 🔗https://www.fenice-sacay.jp/event/31242/... #Osaka #Sakai #Sakai City #Sakai Higashi #Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group #World Heritage #Kofun Summit #Kofun #haniwa #Haniwa Division Chief #Fenice Sakai #Kofun Goods #Expo #Osaka-Kansai Expo #Post-Expo https://www.city.sakai.lg.jp/kanko/rekishi/sei/samazama_torikumi/r07/r07kofunsummit.html...

📢 From October 4th, the gas balloon “Osaka Sakai Balloon” finally began operating at Daisen Park! 🎉 From about 100 meters above, you can see the Nintoku-tenno-ryo Kofun and other nearby burial mounds. ✨ 🔍 For details, search for “Osaka Sakai Balloon”! https://osaka-sakai-balloon.com//

Stamp Rally Touring Kumamoto’s World Heritage Sites! Collect stamps completed by visiting Misumi West Port, Manda Pit, Sakitsu Village, and more, and receive a clear file‼ To commemorate the 10th anniversary of the inscription of the World Cultural Heritage Sites “Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution,” we are holding a stamp rally that visits the World Heritage sites and component properties within Kumamoto Prefecture. Visit Manda Pit and Misumi West Port, component properties of the World Cultural Heritage Site “Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution,” and Sakitsu Village, a component property of the “Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region and Amakusa,” and tour Kumamoto City to fully discover the charms of Kumamoto! Collect all the stamps to receive exclusive World Heritage goods. Please see below for details. Event Period From Saturday, July 19, 2025 to Sunday, December 28, 2025 Opening Hours and Closed Days for Each Facility Manda Mine Station: 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed: Mondays (if a Monday is a public holiday, closed the following weekday) Misumi-West Port Urashima-ya: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed: none Sakitsu Village Guidance Center: 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Closed days during the event period: none Stamp Locations (5 spots in total) Manda Mine Station (Arao City) Misumi-West Port Urashima-ya (Uki City) Sakitsu Village Guidance Center (Amakusa City) Waiting Room on the Shinkansen Platform Side at kumamoto station (Kumamoto City) Sakura Machi Kumamoto, 2nd Floor Concourse (Kumamoto City) ‼Those who complete the rally will receive exclusive World Heritage goods‼ If you collect all the stamps, please show the completed design to staff at one of the facilities below. You will receive exclusive World Heritage goods. Locations to Receive Limited Goods • Manda Mine Station • JR Misumi Station Tourist Information Center (note: different from the stamp location) • Sakitsu Village Guidance Center Participation Fee Free Inquiries Regional Development Division, Tourism and Cultural Exchange Division, World Heritage and Cultural Exchange Office Phone 0968-63-1274

The poster for "Kimono Week in Hagi" has been completed! 👘🫧 During the period, various Events will be held in around Hagi Castle Town and other places in the city! In addition to Events that can be enjoyed at night such as "Hagi / Bamboo Lantern Road Story", At the Hagitacho Shopping Street Arcade and the Hagi-Meirin Gakusha School, the "Hagi-Tamachi Hagiyaki Festival" is held in. Information on the Events will be announced 📢😸 on the website of the Hagi City Tourism Association and social media at any time ■ Kimono Week in Hagi Hagi is a town with a Traditional charm that still retains the townscape of the Edo period. "Kimono Week in Hagi" is an Events where you can wear a "kimono" that suits the town and enjoy walking around the town. During the period, various Privileges such as discounts on Meals and shopping, photo shoots and photo gifts There are. 10/1(Water)~11/15(Sat) ■ The Tale of Hagi and Bamboo Lanterns Bamboo lanterns are lined up, and the light of candles faintly illuminates the historic townscape. 10/10(Fri)~12(Sun)18:00~21:00 ■Hagi and Tamachi Hagiyaki Festival Held in a large sale of Hagiyaki, which boasts a history and tradition of more than 400 years. Events where you can meet your favorite vessels. 10/11 (Sat) ~ 13 (Mon) 10:00~17:00 This autumn, why don't you go on a kimono-filled "#Hagi Trip"? 🍂

Held in "Kimono Week in Hagi" in 2025 with an extended period! Hagi is a town with a Traditional charm that still retains the townscape of the Edo period. "#Kimono Week in Hagi" is an Events where you can wear a "kimono" that suits the townscape and enjoy walking around the town. This Events, which started in 2006, is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. To commemorate this, we are preparing various projects. Stay tuned! ■Held in period October 1, 2025 (Water) ~ November 15, 2025 (Sat) ■Held in Facilities in the Hagi Castle Town area, Hagi Museum, Hagi and Meirin Gakusha School, and other facilities in the city This autumn, why don't you go on a kimono-filled Hagi trip? 👘🍂 Details will be updated on the website of the Hagi City Tourism Association from time to time!

The World Cultural Heritage “Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution” Card Rally 2025 is now underway! July 1 (Tuesday)–September 30 (Tuesday) World Cultural Heritage “Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution” Card Rally 2025: 38 cards in all Event period: July 1, 2025 (Tuesday)–September 30, 2025 (Tuesday) Celebrating the 10th anniversary of World Heritage registration! Set off on an adventure through eight prefectures and 11 cities! The industrial revolution that laid the foundations of modern Japan took place from the late Edo period through the Meiji era. The factories, mines, and shipyards that served as its stages remain across the country as the Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution, now listed as a World Cultural Heritage. We are holding a special program to enjoy these history-rich industrial sites: the World Cultural Heritage “Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution” Card Rally 2025! At the designated component sites and related facilities, you can collect cards featuring illustrations of things and people closely connected to the Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution. Collect the normal cards available at each facility and get a rare card! Collect specific cards to receive limited-edition cards and premium card holders (quantities limited). From young children to history-loving adults, this event offers both learning and collecting fun. Plus, add the official LINE account as a friend, and a robot named Gear-kun will appear to help you collect cards via LINE! With Gear-kun you can check your digital card collection and easily make inquiries about the card rally via LINE, making it very convenient! This summer, enjoy exploring industrial heritage sites while encountering the passion and technology of the late Edo through the Meiji era. For details, please check the “Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution 10th Anniversary Special Site.” Inquiries about the Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution World Heritage Council: 099-286-2363 Inquiries about the card rally (general) Organizing Office: 050-2030-7388 Normal card pickup locations — 8 prefectures, 11 cities nationwide Hagi Reverberatory Furnace Guide Hut [Hagi, Yamaguchi Prefecture] Emisugahana Shipyard Guide Hut [Hagi, Yamaguchi Prefecture] Obanayama Tatara Museum [Hagi, Yamaguchi Prefecture] Shigetsuki Park Ticket Booth (Site of Hagi Castle) [Hagi, Yamaguchi Prefecture] Shoin Shrine Treasure House Shiseikan [Hagi, Yamaguchi Prefecture] Shoko Shuseikan (Former Shuseikan Foundry Site) Slope [Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture] Former Kagoshima Spinning Mill Engineer’s House (Ijinkan) [Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture] Sekiyoshi Local Products Center [Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture] Nirayama Reverberatory Furnace Guidance Center Reception [Izunokuni, Shizuoka Prefecture] Hashino Iron Mining Information Center or Iron History Museum [Kamaishi, Iwate Prefecture] Sano Tsunetami and the Miezu Naval Arsenal Site History Museum or Saga Castle Honmaru History Museum [Saga City, Saga Prefecture] Gunkanjima Museum or Kosuge Shu Shipyard Site [Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture] Gunkanjima Digital Museum [Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture] Nagasaki Port Terminal [Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture] Takashima Coal Museum [Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture] Takashima Kita-kei Mine nearest bus stop [Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture] Gunkanjima Museum [Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture] World Heritage Visitor Center [Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture] Miyahara Pit [Omuta, Fukuoka Prefecture] Manda Pit Station [Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture] — located inside Manda Pit Station. Coal mine train shelter [Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture] ※Installed inside the paid area of Manda Pit; on rainy days, after checking your mine entry ticket, staff at the Manda Pit entrance will hand it to you. Omuta City Coal Industry Science Museum [Omuta, Fukuoka Prefecture] Ryujokan [Uki, Kumamoto Prefecture] Former Main Office Viewing Area, Imperial Ironworks, Yawata [Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture] Ongagawa Water Source Pump Room Information Center (inside Nakama City Community Exchange Center) [Nakama, Fukuoka Prefecture] Manda Pit Station 200-2 Haramanda, Arao City, Kumamoto 864-0001 Phone: 0968-57-9155 Closed: Every Monday (if a holiday, the following weekday), December 29–January 3 Manda Pit site tours: Adults 410 yen, high school students 310 yen, elementary/middle school students 210 yen Manda Pit Station exhibition room and DVD screening room tours: Free Parking: Free Bus-only parking [5 large, 3 medium] 72 standard car spaces A motorcycle-only parking area is also available https://diginal.co.jp/card_rally/...

Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture welcomes you all year round with Four Seasons of Flowers! Here are some of the beautiful Flowers you can enjoy in Hagi City. spring Spring when the whole town is gorgeous. When the cherry blossoms bloom, you will feel a warm feeling, as if you are surrounded by happiness. Feel the turn of the seasons and let the gentle Spring breeze blow. ■ Cherry blossoms [Flowering time: late March ~ early April] Hagi Castle Ruins Shizuki Park is known as a famous landmarks for cherry blossoms, and you can Fun about 600 Someiyoshino trees and Midori Yoshino that can only be seen in Hagi. (Midori Yoshino: A cherry blossom characterized by pure white petals and green gaku) ■ Rape flower 【Late March ~ Late April】 It takes about 30 minutes by car from Hagi Downtown. The Mutsumi Flower Road covers an area of about 4.0 hectares and Unfolds a field of about 6 million colorful rape trees. ■ Summer oranges flowers [Flowering time: early ~ mid-May] When small white flowers bloom, the whole town is enveloped in a sweet~ and refreshing Aroma. (Aroma of this sweet cannot be conveyed in words or pictures!) Please visit and feel it! ） Summer oranges turn yellow from autumn to winter, but they grow on trees until Spring to remove the acidity. Scenes of fruits and flowers lined up at the same time is a pretty sight. summer Spring passes in the blink of an eye, and a long, hot summer begins. The way the greenery shines vividly under the blue sky makes you feel the breath of life. The heat will be severe, so please take care of your physical condition. ■ Hydrangea [Flowering time: mid ~ end of June] At the foot of the largest stone bridge in the prefecture, about 150 colorful hydrangeas bloom. This hydrangea may refer to: Local volunteers maintain and manage it, and it has become a tradition during the rainy season. ■ Sunflower [Flowering time: late July ~ early August] On the Mutsumi Flower Road, about 330,000 sunflowers bloom in summer. The contrast between the blue sky and the yellow sunflowers is a symbol of summer! autumn The town of Hagi has been changed to autumn colors. It is also recommended to walk around the town in a kimono. Enjoy the deepening beauty of autumn. ■ Hagi flower 【Mid-August ~ Late September】 The place name of Hagi is said to have originated from the fact that there was a mountain with many hagi growing nearby, and it is designated as the flower of Hagi City along with camellias. There are the Pottery Village Park, which overlooks the downtown of Hagi, is the longest tunnel in No.1 in Japan at 50 meters. ■ Sasanqua [Flowering time: around mid-October ~ late December] In Shizuki Park, snow-white flowers bloom on large native sasanqua trees. Mt. Shizuki is the only northern limit of sasanqua in Honshu where sasanqua grows naturally. winter In the cold winter, it is easy to stay at home. The sight of flowers that bloom dignified even under such a cold sky is ands healthy and beautiful, and it touches my heart. Please dress warmly and go out! ■ Camellia [Flowering time: early December ~ late March] About 25,000 Camellia japonica trees grow wild in the Kasayama Camellia Grove. The camellias, which are so tall that they block the sun, create a mysterious atmosphere that makes you feel as if you have wandered into another world, and the sight of the "fallen camellias" that have fallen from the trees and color the ground red is a superb view. Camellia is designated as the flower of Hagi City. ■ Ume Plum 【Flowering time: early February ~ mid-March】 Hagi Plum Grove Garden opened about 30 years ago to commemorate the 160th anniversary of Yoshida Shoin's birth. About 350 Ume plums of 13 types, including red Ume plums and white Ume plums, are planted in the park, and colorful flowers herald the arrival of spring. ■Kawazu cherry blossoms [Flowering time: late February ~ early March] Roadside Station In the Shinsui Park Soba of the Car parking lot in Hagishimato, about 120 Kawazu cherry blossoms trees bloom with pretty dark pink flowers. Fun is also attractive because the trees are not very high, so you can enjoy it at eye level. Please come and meet the seasonal flowers that color the town of Hagi!

NICE TO MEET EVERYONE WHO WATCHES COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! Yamaguchi Prefecture Hagi City (Hagishi) Tourism Association. Located in the Northern part of Yamaguchi Prefecture, the westernmost part of Honshu, and surrounded by mountains on Sea of Japan one side and mountains on the three sides, Hagi City is dotted with history, culture, and Nature "Otakara" throughout the city, making it look like a large Museum without a roof. With this Account, we will deliver the charm of Hagi City to everyone. Thank you very much! ■Transportation Access to Hagi Downtown, Yamaguchi Prefecture 【Access by plane】 ・Haneda Airports ~ Yamaguchi Ube Airport Approximately 1 hour 35 minutes Yamaguchi Ube Airports ~ Hagi City Approx. 1 hour 15 minutes (Shared Taxi) / Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes ~ 2 hours (Bus) ・Haneda Airports~Hagi/Iwami Airports about 1 hour 20 minutes Hagi / Iwami Airports ~ Hagi City Approx. 1 hour 10 minutes (Shared Taxi) / Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes (Bus / Train) 【Access by rail】 ・Tokyo ~ Shinyamaguchi Station Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes ・Osaka ~ Shinyamaguchi Station about 2 hours ・Hiroshima ~ Shinyamaguchi Station about 30 minutes ・Fukuoka ~ Shinyamaguchi Station about 40 minutes Shinyamaguchi Station ~ Hagi City Approx. 1 hour ~ 1 hour 30 minutes (bus) 【Access by car】 Via Chugoku Expressway Mine-Higashi JCT, "Ogori Hagi Road (free)" Edo I.C ~ Hagi city about 20 minutes [Highway Bus] Tokyo ~ Hagi Bus Center about 14 hours 40 minutes ■Basic Information of Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture Hagi City has a population of about 40,000 people (as of May 2025) and a total area of 698.31 square kilometers, which is about 11.4% of the prefecture's land area. In 2005 (Heisei 17), 1 city, 2 towns and 4 villages were merged, and it continues to the present. It is positioned as one of the one of the most agricultural, forestry, and water industry areas in the prefecture, and Agricultural products such as Koshihikari rice, agricultural products such as "Senshidai radish" and "Yamaguchi abu tomato", and water products such as "Hagi no Setsuki Aji", "Hagi no Mafugu", and "Susami Koto Squid" are Hagi brand products. In addition, in Heisei 27 (Heisei 27) (2015), the five assets of the Hagi Reverberatory Furnace, the ruins of the Ebisugahana Shipyard, the Oitayama Tatara Iron and Steel Ruins, the Shoka-sonjuku Academy, and the Hagi Castle Town were registered as World Heritage Sites "Sites of Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution ~Iron and Steelmaking, Shipbuilding, Coal Industry~". ■History of Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture Hagi City developed as a Castle Town about 400 years ago when Terumoto Mōri built Hagi Castle. The appearance of the Castle Town has been inherited to this day, and it is still a "town where maps from the Edo period can be used as they are". In addition, at the end of the Bakumatsu period, it produced many aspirants of the Meiji Restoration, such as Yoshida Shoin, Kido Takayoshi, Shinsaku Takasugi, and Ito Hirobumi. ■Recommended Sightseeing spots in Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture ・Hagi Meirin Gakusha School It is a tourist facilities that was born through the renovation and maintenance of one of the largest wooden school buildings in Japan, which was once used as an elementary school. The retro exterior, classrooms, corridors, and stairs are recommended for photo Spot. In addition to the World Heritage Visitor Center, there is a Tourist Information Center, a bus stop, and bicycle rental (accepted at the Hagi Tourist Information Center) nearby, making it an ideal starting point for sightseeing in Hagi. ・Hagi Castle Town Registered as a World Heritage Site, Hagi Castle Town retains the quaint townscape of the Edo period. Scattered places related to Shinsaku Takasugi and Kido Takayoshi are scattered. Spot is unbearable for history buffs. There are cafes, Souvenirs shops, kimono rental shops, etc., so it is also recommended for sightseeing. Summer oranges peeking out from the white walls and earthen walls are a characteristic of Hagi Castle Town. ・Shoin Shrine A shrine dedicated to the passionate leader Yoshida Shoin. It is deeply believed as the god of learning, and is crowded with many students taking exams. The Precincts are dotted with historical sites related to Shoin, such as the Shoka-sonjuku Academy, which produced many Restoration warriors, and the Yoshida Shoin Prisoner Old House. ・Susa Hornfels It takes about 50 minutes by car from Hagi Downtown. Susa Hornfels was born under the influence of magma heat about 1,500 years ago. The striped cliff is a stratum of sand and mud that accumulated on the seabed when the Sea of Sea of Japan was formed. Thereare is powerful when the waves splash up. ・Unrin Temple (Cat Temple) It takes about 30 minutes by car from Hagi Downtown. The Precincts, which is popularly called Temple cats, is full of Temple cats must see cat lovers, including cat figurines of various sizes, cat fortunes, cat charms, cat ema, and cat . ■Gourmet and specialty products of Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture 【Gourmet】 ・Choshu seafood mabushi "If you eat Hagi's fish, you can't eat other fish." Popular from inside and outside the city, "Choshu Seafood Mabushi" is a blissful cup where you can luxuriously enjoy Hagi's proud fish. You can enjoy three taste changes like a hitsumabushi. Several stores in Hagi City offer Original menus. ・ More and more The people of Yamaguchi Prefecture love the "Dondon" of Udon noodles. It is characterized by soft and fluffy noodles and sweet ~ dashi, and the speed of delivery is so fast that it is often featured on TV. The heaping amount of green onions on the desk is all-you-can-eat! Udon noodles are accompanied by Hagi's Local cuisine, Wakame Musubi, which is a standard. 【Specialty】 ・Baked kamaboko Choshu Specialties Hagi no Kamaboko that was presented to the Tokugawa Shogun family as a national souvenir. Gari, as the name suggests, is slowly roasted from the bottom of the board over a long flame to create a unique plump texture and glossy skin. If you take a bite, your image of kamaboko will surely change! ・Summer oranges Summer oranges are designed not only for trees, but also for manholes and exterior lights, blending into the town of Hagi. Taking advantage of the sweet and sour flavor, it is processing into various products such as soft serve ice cream, juice, marmalade, and sweets. Souvenirs are also recommended. ■Events and festivals in Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture ・Hagiyaki Festival 【Held in date: early May】 Boasting a history and tradition of more than 400 years, Hagi ware is characterized by its soft and rustic Texture/character, and is highly prized among tea people as "Ichiraku Nihagi Sankaratsu". The Hagiyaki Festival is an Events where you can meet your favorite vessels while touring kilns, stores, Special venues, etc., with the entire town as a venue. ・Hagi Buddhist lantern festival [Held in time: Pick-up fire August 13, Sending fire Tokoji Temple August 15] It is also a summer tradition of Hagi, Hagi Buddhist lantern festival. In order to mourn the Bodhi of Hagi Lord Mori clan (Mori-shi), 603 stone lanterns are lit in the tomb of Daishoin and about 500 in the Toko Temple, creating a fantastic and ethereal world Unfolds. ・Kimono Week in Hagi 【Held in: October ~ November】 If you walk in a kimono in the town of Hagi, which was selected as the "First National Grand Prix of the Kimono City Grand Prix", you will feel as if you have traveled back in time! Thereare during the period, there are various projects to enjoy in kimonos, such as photo shoots, photo gifts, and workshops for making Japanese accessories. ・ Old chicks under Hagi Castle 【Held in: February 3rd ~ April 3rd】 Approximately 1,200 chicks that have been carefully passed down from the Edo period to the present day will be exhibited at cultural property facilities, and glittering hina decorations will decorate Hagi in early Spring. In Hagi, it is customary to celebrate the Hinamatsuri (doll festival) on 4/3 even after the new calendar, and on the last day, 4/3, a shedding chick is held in the Aiba River (around the former Yukawa residence) in hopes of healthy growth and disease-free life for children. Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is full of many "Otakara" such as rich ingredients and traditional crafts, as well as beautiful Nature history, culture, and Four Seasons. The warm spirit of hospitality is also one of the "otakara". Broadcasting Information will continue to let you know more about the charms of Hagi City, so please follow us!

【Lake Motosu Diving Experience】Dive at the foot of At the foot of Mt., a World Heritage Site! ⛰️To the mysterious lake where 1,200 years of history sleeps 💧 Hello, this is 🌈 Hokule'a Shonan This time, we will introduce a diving experience at Lake Motosu, which spreads out at the foot of Mount Fuji 🗻, a World Heritage Site! Lake Motosu is one of the Fuji Five Lakes and is a highly transparent Water lake 💎 located about 900 meters Elevation It is 🤿 a rare Spot in Japan where you can experience altitude diving (high-altitude diving) On this day, we went to Lake Motosu with 🌍 guests from overseas It was ✨ indeed a special day for the guests who were trying their first Lake Motosu and their first Altitude dive In the lake, there was 🌲 a landscape that made you feel as if you were in ancient times A dynamic terrain formed by lava and a water bottom with a number of surprisingly large sunken trees. The silence and scale of it is simply overwhelming 😮 In addition, there is a legend that there was once a Torii (shrine gate) gate and a shrine, and there is a hint of more than 1,200 years of history in the Water. The time spent at the bottom of the lake while thinking about the prayer place sunk in the Water is very mysterious 🕊️ The water temperature on this day felt a little cold at 18-11°C, but we were able 🧊 to dive comfortably in a dry suit I was particularly impressed by the deep and clear blue world 💙 called "Lake Motosu Blues" Impression 👏 of transparency and tranquility, which is completely different from the sea, And after the dive... Superb view of Mount Fuji towering in front of you! 🗻 In addition to diving, you can experience both the Nature and culture of Japan, which is a major attraction 🇯🇵 of Lake Motosu diving ✅ Recommended points for Lake Motosu diving ✅ A special experience where you can dive at the foot of Mount Fuji, a World Heritage Site ✅ Altitude diving is possible ✅ Lakebed with more than 1,200 years of history and tradition ✅ A water world where giant trees, lava, and the mysterious "Lake Motosu Blues" spread ✅ Perfect for sightseeing with a Mount Fuji view! 🌈 In Hokule'a Shonan, diving at Lake Motosu can be requested 📅 all year round The water temperature varies greatly from 5 to 25°C depending on the season, and you can enjoy 🍃❄️🌸☀️ a different look every time you visit "I want to dive near Mt. Mount Fuji someday." Why don't you make such a dream a reality? 😊 📩 If you are a beginner or would like to acquire Sense, please feel free to contact us! #DivingInJapan #LakeMotosu #MtFujiView #JapanAdventure #ScubaTravel #AltitudeDiving #HiddenJapan #OnlyInJapan #NatureLovers #BucketListJapan #WorldHeritage #FreshwaterDiving #HokuleaShonan

　It was taken at the Fujiwara Festival in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture. About 900 years ago, at the end of the Heian period, when Minamoto Yoshitsune, who was chased by his brother Minamoto no Yoritomo, relied on Fujiwara no Hidehiro of Hiraizumi and went down to the east. This is the 62nd Festival that Reproduction the Scene. Dressed in costumes Reproduction Heian picture scrolls, a line of horses and cattle Car procession from Moetsu Temple to Chūson Temple. 　The photo was taken Temple a brave warrior who departed from the main gate of Mao Yue.

Guide to the Manda Pit Multilingual Guide System 💁‍♀️✨ At Manda Pit, you can use a multilingual guide system as well as Japanese. Scan the QR code in the image or visit here → http://www.mandako.jp// to use the system! #Kumamoto #Arao #Manda Pit #mandako #MiikeCoalMine #MandaPit

Arao Tourism Information Paper We are distributing issue No. 32 of “arao ni konna.” This spring 2025 issue features Arao’s gourmet scene, introducing dining spots around Arao City! Copies are placed at facilities and shops in and around Arao City. If you see one, please pick it up! You can also view the digital PDF brochure on the Arao City Tourism Association pamphlet page. Check it out here! https://arao-kankou.jp/pamphlet/... #like this #like this issue No. 32 #Arao #arao #arao #Kumamoto Prefecture #Kumamoto #Kumamoto #Kumamoto #northern area #tourism #gourmet #information #Manda Pit #manda kō #World Heritage #Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution #Ariake Sea #tidal flats #Marugoto Arao #spread #Instagram #events #tourist spots #Greenland

As part of the Kumamoto Prefectural Theater’s 40th anniversary projects, five videos were produced under the theme “A Moving Theater.” One of these, a collaboration video pairing Manda Pit with dance, has been released on YouTube. The performance set against the historic Manda Pit features professional dancer Yusuke Hayama as lead, choreographer, and scriptwriter. Art director Takashi Yoshida composed and directed an original piece for this project, and the film was produced by OP Films from Onigashima Productions. True to the phrase “Dance is Timeless,” the video offers a dance interpretation of Manda Pit’s history that transcends eras. https://arao-kankou.jp/info/11207/... Other videos created under the “A Moving Theater” theme are also available. Please take a look. ・Sakitsu Village × Double Bass ・Yatsushiro Myoken Festival × Tsugaru Shamisen and Japanese Drums ・Aso × String Quartet ・Misumi West Port × Marching Band

Kumamon Island finally appears in the popular game Fortnite!! The hugely popular online game Fortnite has introduced a new stage set in Kumamoto called Kumamon Island!! Kumamon Island isn’t the usual shooting game; it’s a business simulation game!! The game’s story centers on Kumamoto’s major tourist spots, including Kumamoto Castle, and features a plot in which players help Kumamon and friends build a giant Kumamon robot!! One of the tourist sites featured is the Manda Pit!! Enjoy the game together with the adorable Kumamon♪ Island code 0507-8727-1071 https://www.pref.kumamoto.jp/kumamonisland/...

A coal mine trolley will run at Manda Pit! The coal mine trolley displayed at the Manda Pit coal preparation plant will run! Of the two displayed cars, No. 12 will run. The coal mine trolley used the Miike Coal Mine private railway to carry coal mined at Manda Pit for export from Miike Port. Be sure to see the trolley as it glides along in pleasant operation. Scheduled running times Every 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month 10:30 11:30 12:30 13:30 14:30 15:30 Manda Pit Postal code 864-0001 200-2 Haramanda, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture ◆Closed: Mondays (the following day if Monday is a public holiday) and during the New Year holidays ◆Admission fees: Adults 410 yen, High school students 310 yen, Elementary and junior high students 210 yen, Infants free *Group rates available (20 people or more) ◆Opening hours: 9:30–17:00 (last entry 16:30) ◆Phone: 0968-57-9155

Manda Pit is also hugely popular as a cosplay photo spot! Arao City's symbol Manda Pit In 2015 (Heisei 27) it was registered as part of the Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution World Heritage. The Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution—iron and steel, shipbuilding, and coal mining—represent the first successful spread of the Industrial Revolution from Europe to the non-Western world. Between the mid-19th century and the early 20th century, Japan achieved rapid industrialization in just over half a century. Now preserved as valuable industrial remains, Manda Pit has newly become extremely popular as a cosplay photo location!! Many cosplayers and photographers use the site. Visitors and staff alike find themselves captivated by the authentic costumes and makeup. Here are some precious off‑shot photos. When a shoot starts, the site feels different from the Manda Pit we usually see as staff, and that gives us a strange, wonderful feeling. Manda Pit is perfect for cosplay photography, offering everything from striking action shots to nostalgic scenes. You’re sure to get photos you’ll love—highly recommended. We look forward to your visit. Information Filming requires advance reservation and a photo shoot application form. Please download the application form from the Arao City website. For changing rooms and luggage storage please use the Manda Coal Mine Museum (paid). This also requires advance reservation. Please contact the Manda Coal Mine Museum for room availability. Manda Coal Mine Museum: Phone 0968-64-1300 If you have any questions, please contact Manda Pit Station. ◆ Manda Pit Station 〒864-0001 200-2 Haramanda, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture ◆ Phone: 0968-57-9155 ◆ FAX: 0968-57-9156 ◆ Closed: Mondays (the following day if Monday is a holiday), and during the New Year holidays ◆ Hours: 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (last entry 4:30 p.m.) ◆ Admission fees: Manda Pit ruins / Adults: ¥410, High school students: ¥310, Elementary and junior high students: ¥210, Preschool children: free ◆ Access: Bus / 8 minutes from JR Arao Station ◆ Parking: 5 large buses, 3 medium buses, 72 passenger cars #Kumamoto #World Heritage #World Cultural Heritage #Miike Coal Mine #Manda Pit #Manda Coal Mine Museum #cosplay #photo spot #Arao City website

What did the mine baths look like? At the Miike Coal Mine Manda Pit there is a newly opened Safety Lamp Room and Bathhouse that opened to the public in fiscal 2024. This bathhouse is the facility that was used from around 1951 (Showa 26), about 74 years after coal extraction stopped at Manda Pit, until 1997 (Heisei 9). Because this bathhouse served the small number of miners who performed maintenance work underground, it is different from the large bathhouses from Manda Pit’s heyday. Although smaller in scale, it served the same purpose of washing off the grime from underground work. Because coal dust that stuck to workers during work was hard to wash off, the washing area was separate from the tubs, and the tubs were divided into the "first bath" and an "up-bath (kakari-yu)" used after cleaning oneself thoroughly. (For details about the large bathhouse used by about 3,500 miners at Manda Pit’s peak, guided tours at Manda Pit offer more information, so please consider using a guide.) The Miike Coal Mine had abundant groundwater and required constant pumping. You might think that plentiful groundwater would be suitable for filling the tubs, but the water used for bathing was tap water. The reason was that water drawn from underground contained fine fragments of coal and other materials that posed a risk of injury, so it was not used at Manda Pit. On Hashima (Gunkanjima), water had to be brought in by supply ship from the mainland until a submarine water pipeline opened in 1953 (Showa 28). At that time, sea water was boiled for baths, and fresh water was reserved for the final "up-bath (kakari-yu)." A scene in the 2024 drama "Diamonds Sleeping in the Sea" also shows miners using the bathhouse after finishing underground work, so please pay attention to that when you watch.

'Mine Tram Preservation Sites Stamp Rally' Event Period Sunday, November 3, 2024–Sunday, March 30, 2025 Stamp and Card Pickup Locations Mine Tram Station Zero (shop reception) Manda Pit (Marugoto Arao Local Products Center reception) Mikawakou (shop register) Omuta Tourist Plaza (register reception) *Banners will mark the entrances where stamps and cards are available. How to Collect Stamps and Get Your Prize 1. Pick up a rally card at any of the four locations listed above. 2. Collect stamps at each location. 3. Receive your prize at the location where you stamp the fourth mark. The 'Mine Tram Preservation Sites Stamp Rally' runs from Sunday, November 3, 2024 through March 30, 2025. During the event, visit the four stamp and card pickup locations to receive an original tin badge produced by the NPO Mine Tram Preservation Society (two designs available). We look forward to many participants! Inquiries NPO Mine Tram Preservation Society Organizer: NPO Mine Tram Preservation Society Supported by: Omuta City, Arao City Cooperation: Shiraishi Motor Co., Ltd.; Omuta City Tourism Association; Arao City Tourism Association; NPO Miike Port Future Town Development Association

🌷Manda Pit Spring Festa 2025🌷 Delicious gourmet food, handmade goods, and food trucks! Also featuring “Manda Elementary Kids Guide” collaboration: Challenge from Manda Pit ver.3! For details, please visit the Arao City Tourism Association website 💁‍♀️ ◆Date and Time Sunday, March 9, 2025 10:00–15:00 ※Event will proceed in light rain ◆Location Manda Pit Lawn Plaza, 200-2 Haramanda, Arao City Free admission! ※The paid area of Manda Pit remains charged as usual. ◆Program ・Petting zoo ・Challenge from Manda Pit ver.3 (quiz rally) ・Bubble Time (teambub) ・Gymnastics workshop by acrobat performance team VIVO ・Gourmet and craft market with over 30 vendors ◆Organizer Manda Pit Station @akane.0604k93 #Kumamoto Prefecture #Arao #Event #Spring Festa #Manda Pit #Gourmet #Food truck #Crafts #Handmade #Zoo #Petting zoo #Quiz rally #Challenge from Manda Pit #Tamana #Omuta #Nagasu #World Cultural Heritage #World Heritage

[Thorough Guide to the World Cultural Heritage Site: Manda Pit!] Manda Pit, located in Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture, is one of the coal mine ruins that supported Japan’s modernization. It is registered as a component of the World Cultural Heritage site "Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution" and holds great significance in Japan’s industrial history. Highlights of Manda Pit One of Japan’s Largest Shaft Facilities Manda Pit served as one of the Miike Coal Mine shafts, producing high-quality coal from the Meiji era through the early Showa era and supporting Japan’s modernization. The massive steel headframe symbolizing Meiji- and Taisho-era mining technology and the winding engine house are must-sees. Well-Preserved Industrial Heritage Many mine facilities and equipment used from the Meiji through Showa eras remain at Manda Pit, allowing visitors to feel the atmosphere of the time. The red-brick buildings and the imposing steel-frame structures are especially popular photo spots. Guided Tours to Learn Mine History Specialist-guided tours at Manda Pit explain the history and workings of the mine in detail. You can see the machinery and equipment that were actually used up close. Display of Mine Trains Manda Pit also exhibits the mine trains once used there. You can view the trains used to transport coal and for local transport up close, and running demonstrations are held on the second and fourth Sunday of every month. Recommended Nearby Spots Arao Tidal Flats (a nature-rich tidal flat registered under the Ramsar Convention) Greenland (one of Kyushu’s largest amusement parks) Yotsuyama Shrine (a historic shrine beloved by Arao residents) Coal Industry Science Museum (a science museum about energy from coal) Access Information About 10 minutes by car from JR Arao Station About 1 hour by car from Fukuoka City About 1 hour by car from Kumamoto City #Manda Pit #World Cultural Heritage #Coal Mine Ruins #Kumamoto Sightseeing #Arao City #Historical Exploration #Industrial Heritage #Photo Spot

Maido! This is the Sakai Tourism and Convention Bureau Public Interest Incorporated Association! On Cool Japan Video, we will be sharing information about Sakai City in Osaka Prefecture, so we hope you will enjoy it! Sakai City sits in the south-central part of Osaka Prefecture, facing Osaka Bay, and is a compelling city where history, culture, and modern life coexist. With a population of about 810,000, it is the second largest city in Osaka Prefecture after Osaka City. Step away from the bustle of the streets, and you will find historic burial mounds and venerable shrines—an altogether different, rich charm lives here. Sakai’s history is ancient: people settled here more than 10,000 years ago in the Paleolithic era, and many stone tools and pottery pieces have been unearthed from Sakai’s archaeological sites. From the late 4th century onward, burial mounds were built one after another, eventually forming a group of over 100 tumuli. These mounds still remain throughout the city, allowing you to feel history up close. During the Sengoku period, Sakai prospered as an international trading port. Now, let us introduce some of Sakai City’s most attractive sightseeing spots. First is the Mozu Tombs and Furuichi Burial Mounds. Consisting of the Mozu area in Sakai City and the Furuichi area in Habikino City and Fujiidera City, the Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. At the center of the Mozu area stands the Tomb of Emperor Nintoku, Japan’s largest keyhole-shaped kofun at 840 meters long. It is said to be one of the world’s three great tombs alongside the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt and the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang in China. Currently, 44 kofun remain within Sakai City. Come and feel the breath of antiquity. At Mozu Hachimangu Shrine, an ancient and atmospheric shrine, you are greeted by a camphor tree more than 800 years old that is designated a Natural Monument of Osaka Prefecture. The shrine grounds are filled with seasonal trees that paint different scenes throughout the year. Other popular temples and shrines in Sakai City include Tajihayahime Shrine, Ohtori Grand Shrine, Hochigai Shrine, and Kaikou Shrine. For families with children, Sakai Municipal Children's Museum, known as Big Bang, offers an indoor play space that is perfect even on rainy days. Inside the UFO-shaped facility, kids can run and climb on a giant jungle gym reaching 53 meters high. Children can learn about science and physics while playing on the equipment. At Sakai Traditional Crafts Museum (formerly Sakai Traditional Industry Hall), which brings together Sakai’s traditional industries, you can learn about the city’s proud history of blades and their manufacturing processes. Exhibition rooms showcase incense, tatami mats, wagashi sweets, and Sakai May carp streamers, and demonstrations of blade sharpening and hands-on workshops are also held, making it a popular tourist spot. Sakai hosts many popular festivals and events such as the Sakai Festival, Sakai Futon Daiko, and Sakai Danjiri. The Sakai Festival, held annually on the third Saturday and Sunday of October, is the city’s largest celebration. The main street, Oshoji-suji, becomes a pedestrian zone for a grand event featuring folk dances, Nanban costumes, and gun squads, with some 7,000 participants—an unmissable spectacle. Sakai Futon Daiko is famous as Sakai’s autumn festival, with mikoshi portable shrines adorned with five layers of decorated futons parading through the city. Alongside the futon drums, Sakai Danjiri is another autumn tradition. More than 80 danjiri floats remain in Sakai City today, offering a sense of history and tradition. Sakai City in Osaka Prefecture holds a wealth of attractions where tradition, culture, and history blend together. We will continue to share more information so that everyone can learn more about Sakai City, and we appreciate your support!

It is a strange rock in Kumano City, Mie Prefecture, and a lion rock that has been recognized as a World Heritage Site. It has a height of about 25 meters.

Memories of Shirakawa-go Shirakawa-go in early summer taken when I was still able to drive to the Observation decks Currently, you have to take a shuttle bus or walk to this observation decks. At night, the parking lot of the village is closed, so it is a scenery that can no longer be photographed. The four photos are combined with the comparative names.

"Beyond Time" Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture Photograph of the 9th generation of Otorii Gate near the end of repairs A historical building called Otorii Gate that has been passed down through the ages

Kannon-do at Ninna-ji Temple The construction of Ninna-ji Temple began at the request of Emperor Mitsutaka, and was founded by Emperor Uta in the 4th year of Ninwa (888). It has been revered by successive emperors as a private temple of the Imperial Family. The photograph is a high-resolution image of 33 enshrinement Buddha statues and murals Reproduction the normally non-Open to the public Kannondo at the Tokyo National Museum. There were so many visitors that it was difficult to take pictures so as not to let people in, but this was the only one that looked like Kannondo. It's really beautiful.

Cherry blossoms and Himeji Castle Himeji Castle is also known as White Heron Castle, a castle located in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture. Major buildings such as castle towers and turrets built in the Edo period still exist, and are registered as national treasures, important cultural properties, and UNESCO World Heritage Lists. I visited Himeji Castle when the cherry blossoms were in full bloom, The photo was taken from the restaurant in the building. I tried to make it a panoramic style, and when you look at it like this, it is quite wide. Cherry blossoms and egret castle are the best match.

Shuri Castle Park and Shuri Castle under restoration / Shuri Castle is said to have been built around the end of the 14th century by the first king of the Ryukyu Kingdom, Shohashi. It is a unique mixture of Chinese, Japanese and Okinawan cultures. In fact, Shuri Castle was burned down three times during the Ryukyu Kingdom, the Battle of Okinawa and this time, for a total of five times. However, it has been preserved with the passion of the people. I think Shuri Castle is a symbol of Okinawa. I Can't wait to see it again ^^ It is scheduled to be completed in 2026.

Shuri Castle main hall under restoration / Visiting the site inside the bare roof I saw the restoration work of the main hall of Shuri Castle, which was destroyed by fire in October 2019, because it is a special Opening to the public and you can Visiting the site during the period. The craftsmen of the palace carpenter are working hard to rebuild. But it was a pity that I couldn't see the craftsmanship because it was a Sunday. Okinawa has many typhoons, and construction is carried out in a temporary building called a "bare roof" to prevent rain and wind. The main hall is completely covered, so it's very big ^^ This is the face of the main hall of Shuri Castle, which is being restored in the center of the temple. I'm looking forward to seeing a dragon on top of this. It is scheduled to be completed in 2026.