Hello everyone watching the Cool Japan video! This is the Takinoue, Okhotsk Tourism Association from Hokkaido. In our first post for the Cool Japan video, we will provide you with all the tourist information about Takinoue Town in Hokkaido. You will discover Japan's largest Shibazakura Takinoue Park, the beautiful Kinsenkyo Gorge with its many waterfalls, and the region that produces the highest amount of domestic Japanese mint. By the time you finish reading, you will surely feel, "I want to visit Takinoue!" Please enjoy until the end! ■What kind of town is Takinoue, Hokkaido? An essential aspect of discussing the attractions of Takinoue Town is its nickname, "Kaori no Sato" (Fragrant Village). The sweet scent of Shibazakura flowers, the refreshing aroma of Japanese mint, which boasts a significant portion of domestic production, and the fragrance of timber from the forestry industry gently envelop the entire town with the changing seasons. All of Takinoue's tourist spots are places where nature and human activities deeply intertwine, making it a perfect destination for those who want to enjoy travel with all five senses. ■How to access Takinoue, Hokkaido? The Doto Expressway and the Asahikawa-Monbetsu Expressway extend to Takinoue Town, located midway between Asahikawa City and Monbetsu City, making it possible to take an express intercity bus from Sapporo in just 3 hours and 30 minutes, allowing for day trips. For visitors coming from outside Hokkaido, it is convenient to use Okhotsk Monbetsu Airport, which is about 50 minutes away by car, or Asahikawa Airport and Memanbetsu Airport within a 2-3 hour range. There are no JR stations within the town, but express intercity buses operate from Sapporo and Asahikawa. Please stop by as a transit point for sightseeing in Asahikawa and Okhotsk. ■Basic information about Takinoue, Hokkaido Takinoue Town is located in the northern part of Hokkaido, with a total population of about 2,128 as of the end of March 2026. The town is surrounded by mountains on three sides, except for the east, with Mt. Teshio (1,558m) and Mt. Kitami Fuji (1,306m) towering above, while the clear Shokotsu River runs through the town. It is particularly gaining attention from travelers who want to experience the great outdoors, making it a prime area for driving trips and nature tourism. ■Recommended tourist spots in Takinoue, Hokkaido 【Shibazakura Takinoue Park】Japan's largest pink carpet The symbol of Takinoue Town is Shibazakura Takinoue Park. The approximately 100,000 square meters (about 2.14 times the size of Tokyo Dome) of Shibazakura flowers spread across a small hill in the city center, creating a pink and purple carpet that captivates visitors from early May to the end of May. Starting from just a box full of seedlings over 60 years ago, the Shibazakura has grown into one of Japan's largest colonies. On sunny days, you can stroll through the sweet fragrance while enjoying views of the Daisetsuzan mountain range and the Kitami Mountains. The entrance fee is 500 yen for adults during the Shibazakura blooming period. 【Kinsenkyo Gorge】A stunning valley of waterfalls and clear streams The approximately 4.2 km long gorge, dotted with various famous waterfalls such as Rakuyō Falls, Kōryū Falls, and the Couples Falls, is truly breathtaking. The walking path in Kinsenkyo Gorge is paved with wood chips, making it easy on the feet, and from spring to autumn, you can enjoy forest bathing while observing rare alpine plants and many wild birds. Especially during the autumn foliage season in Kinsenkyo (from early to late October), you can enjoy the magnificent waterfalls competing with the fiery autumn leaves, and walking events with guides are very popular. 【Herb Garden】Experience the "Fragrant Village" with all five senses The Herb Garden (Kaori no Sato Herb Garden) is a symbol of Takinoue, known as "Kaori no Sato." From June to September, a vast 4-hectare garden with about 300 types of herbs blooms, allowing for a five-sensory experience of seeing, hearing, touching, smelling, and tasting. At the Fragrance House on the hill, you can also enjoy light meals and experiences using the herbs harvested from the garden. It is a must-visit spot for summer tourism in Takinoue, where you can fully experience the refreshing aroma unique to one of Japan's leading Japanese mint production areas. 【Ukishima Wetland】A high moorland in a hidden paradise Nature lovers should definitely visit Ukishima Wetland. This high moorland at an elevation of 850 meters is dotted with various ponds of all sizes, and the "floating islands" created by the roots of wetland grasses create a rare landscape. Diverse alpine plants such as Ezo Isotsutsuji, Chinguruma, and Mōsengoke grow naturally, and Ezo salamanders and many wild birds also visit. You can enjoy the original nature of Hokkaido on a round trip hike of about 2.5 hours, making it a special hidden spot with only great nature and tranquility. Nature guides who walk with local guides are also popular. 【Yokushokuen】A garden registered as a northern landscape heritage. An original garden created by a single person as if painting on the earth. From the end of April to October, a unique landscape unfolds, changing its expression with the seasons as plants thrive. ■What are the recommended gourmet foods and specialties of Takinoue, Hokkaido? 【Japanese Mint (Domestic Japanese Mint Oil)】 A specialty product that Takinoue Town proudly offers, responsible for most of Japan's domestic mint production. It can be widely used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food, and is available for purchase at the roadside station "Kaori no Sato Takinoue" and others. 【Shibazakura Soft Serve Ice Cream】 A classic Takinoue gourmet sold within Shibazakura Takinoue Park during the Shibazakura Festival, featuring a pale pink color that catches the eye. The scent of Shibazakura and its gentle sweetness are popular, making it perfect for social media. ■When are the events and festivals in Takinoue, Hokkaido held? 【Fairytale Village Takinoue Shibazakura Festival】(May) The largest event of the year is held every year from early May to the end of May at Shibazakura Takinoue Park. On weekends, you can enjoy the "Phlox Marche" (food and market, workshops, mini live performances), and the "Shibazakura SKY Cruise" viewed from a helicopter is also very popular every year. 【Fairytale Village Takinoue Hometown Festival】(August) An event packed with activities such as log cutting championships, bon odori dances, fireworks festivals, gorge walks, and a grand lottery, allowing you to fully enjoy the local summer. 【Kinsenkyo Autumn Leaves Walking Event】(October) A seasonal tradition that concludes the autumn in Takinoue. Held in mid-October, you can enjoy the magnificent waterfalls and fiery autumn leaves while walking the Kinsenkyo walking path with experienced guides. The gorge, about 4.2 km long, is dotted with various famous waterfalls such as Rakuyō Falls and Kōryū Falls. The walking path is paved with wood chips, and you can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the seasons, from the fresh greenery of spring to the autumn foliage. ■We look forward to welcoming you to "Kaori no Sato" Takinoue Town! Japan's largest "Shibazakura Takinoue Park," the beautiful Kinsenkyo Gorge, the "Herb Garden" filled with the fragrance of 300 types of herbs, and the mystical "Ukishima Wetland." Please enjoy the unique experiences that can only be had in Takinoue Town, surrounded by the great outdoors of Hokkaido! We will continue to provide the latest information about Takinoue through the Cool Japan video, so thank you for your continued support! Official website of Takinoue, Okhotsk Tourism Association https://takinoue.com...

In the gentle spring scenery, a single flower 🌷 standing tall makes me feel somewhat encouraged.

Event Announcement📣 On April 26th (Sunday), the 68th Honbetsu Sanke Tsutsuji Festival will be held again this year😊 At Honbetsu Park, the venue, vibrant Daurian Azaleas and Ezo cherry trees will welcome everyone🌸 Inside the venue, you can enjoy a variety of gourmet foods from local restaurants, live performances by the Hamburger Boys, a bingo tournament, a bouncy land, and a smoke experience, among many other attractions‼️ One of the highlights is the specialty "Jumbo Yoshitsune Hot Pot," a delicious pork soup packed with local ingredients. Be sure to give it a try😍 Come with your family and friends to this spring festival filled with gourmet food and entertainment🤗 📍Date: April 26, 2026 (Sunday) 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM *The event will proceed even in light rain 📍Location: In front of the stage at Yoshitsune no Sato Honbetsu Park (Higashimachi, Honbetsu Town) 【Requests for Attendees】 To ensure everyone enjoys a safe and fun time, we kindly ask for your cooperation with the following points. - Please refrain from bringing pets. - Please take your trash home with you (trash bags are available at the main tent). - Fishing equipment will not be available for rent. Please bring your own to participate. - Driving cars or bicycles after drinking is considered drunk driving, so please refrain from doing so.

On April 12th, the Takeda diamond, signaling the arrival of spring, was clearly visible on Mt. Goryu in Hakuba. Cherry blossoms and snow-capped mountains! And a clear blue sky. I received the best hospitality from Hakuba!

Ooiwa Slope, Dam Park Oiwa Observation Square Kissa Ooiwa Address reference: 82 Oiwa, Ibaraki City, Osaka Prefecture On a clear day, you can see Kansai International Airport from the observation deck! There is a parking lot for cars, as well as spaces for motorcycles and bicycles. There are covered benches and regular benches available. There are also nice and clean restrooms. Why not stop by while cycling or driving?

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😊

On April 17, 2026, the Lake Mashu Safety Prayer Festival was held at Lake Mashu Kamuy Terrace, and at the same time, the drive course connecting Lake Mashu First Observatory and Mt. Io, known as the Mashu Lake Mount Io Sky Road, was opened 🚙🐾 At Lake Mashu Kamuy Terrace, flags, as shown in the photos, are also on sale 🚩 The season has arrived to enjoy Lake Mashu visible from the Third Observatory ✨ We invite you to visit us at least once. https://www.masyuko.or.jp/enjoy/masyuresthouse/...

The atmosphere is greatly enhanced by the female boatman. *Aerial shots are taken with the permission of the Kunita family. *Approved for unmanned aircraft operation by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. *Flight plan notification and flight log preparation. Shibazakura of the Kunita family in Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture. April 2026.

The camellia blooms gracefully under the sunlight 🌺 It was a vibrant red, as if sharing the strength of spring✨️

On the first day of the marche, May 2nd (Saturday) to May 4th (Monday), the entrance of Roadside Station Kamu will be bustling with Nishiokoppe Marche. To coincide with the first day of the marche, we will hold a window art project where participants can paint on windows! The theme is "Flowers and Songs," and we invite you to decorate the windows inside the Roadside Station. Anyone, young or old, from inside and outside the village, is welcome to join. Participation is free of charge. Children under elementary school age must be accompanied by an adult. The event will take place from 10:30 to 11:30, but staff will be available until 15:00 when the marche vendors close, so feel free to ask if you'd like to draw! The materials used will be washable crayons. Additionally, in the hall where the karakuri organ is installed, the windows have been decorated in advance by local volunteers, so please look forward to that as well. The drawings you create will be displayed until mid-July. If you happen to pass by the Roadside Station, please stop by and take a look at the artwork!

Expo Memorial Park Suita City, Osaka Prefecture, Senri Expo Park Adults (high school students and above) 450 yen, children free. *Revised from April 1, 2026 Must-See Attractions Tower of the Sun and Interior Tour The symbol "Tower of the Sun" created by Taro Okamoto is the face of the park. Not only can you admire its exterior, but there is also an interior tour available by reservation, allowing visitors to experience a powerful space that recreates the exhibitions from the Expo era. Japanese-style Garden This authentic strolling garden was developed for the 1970 Expo, featuring ponds, tea houses, and waterfalls scattered throughout, where visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers and autumn foliage. This area is detailed as a "highlight of the Japanese-style garden" by the park's official introduction.

Aerial footage was taken of the lower thousand cherry trees at Mount Yoshino. Yoshino Mountain, Yoshino Town, Nara Prefecture April 2026 *Obtained comprehensive flight permission for unmanned aerial vehicles from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism *Flight plan notification and flight log creation.

In Nagano City, we introduce late-blooming cherry blossoms! 🌸 Cherry blossom bloom report from April 14 and 15. 〈Don't forget to tap the "save mark" if you want to revisit this later!〉 1. Gassho Cherry Blossom at Tenzōji Temple A designated natural monument of Nagano City. The weeping cherry trees on both sides of the main hall stretch their branches to meet each other, which is why they are called "Gassho Cherry Blossom." 【Location】74 Ōoka Otsu, Nagano City 【Parking】Available 2. Weeping Cherry Blossom at Takahashi in Kinasa The 400-year-old weeping cherry tree is located in the front yard of the Takahashi Community Center and is a natural monument of Nagano City. At Takahashi Yakushidō, there is a group of stone statues, including a beautifully carved Kannon from the 33rd temple of the Western Pilgrimage. 【Location】Takahashi, Kinasa, Nagano City 3. Kamiyo Cherry Blossom at Isozakura Jinja Legend has it that this giant tree grew from the staff of Susanoo no Mikoto, with a circumference of about 9 meters. It is an Edohigan cherry tree estimated to be 1,200 years old and designated as a national natural monument. 【Location】513 Izumihei, Nagano City 4. Sakura Square at Nagano City Hall A cherry blossom spot known to those in the know! It is a relaxing space with garden umbrellas and chairs. 【Location】1613 Tsuruga Midori-machi, Nagano City 【Parking】Available (The first hour after entering the parking lot is free, excluding late-night hours.) *The "Nagano Tourism Net" webpage is currently sharing cherry blossom bloom information for Nagano City! 🌸 Please use it as a reference for your cherry blossom viewing! 🌸 *There is a link in the highlight "Flower Spot Information." #Cherry Blossom #Hanami #Blooming #Nagano City #Nagano Tourism

[All About Gokasecho in Spring 🌸] Here are some photos of Gokasecho in full bloom 📷 Rhododendrons, weeping cherry blossoms, and Akebono azaleas were in full bloom! Please feel free to submit your photos for Gokase Hanami 2026!

Let me give you a brief introduction to Kawayu Onsen, which I've been saving up for 1-2 months! In Teshikaga, there is plenty of nature where anyone can capture beautiful scenery. Of course, it's stunning regardless of the season, so feel free to come with your camera and capture many beautiful moments of Teshikaga!📸📱 https://www.masyuko.or.jp/enjoy/kawayu_ashi/...

Introducing Our Sponsors: The 15th Teshikaga Photo Contest The award-winning works of the 15th Teshikaga Photo Contest have been announced, and each winner has received a prize. This Teshikaga Photo Contest is held with the cooperation of local businesses in Teshikagacho. On the official Teshikaga Navi Instagram, we will gradually introduce the sponsoring companies that have supported us. (In no particular order) This time, we would like to introduce 'Teshikaga Town Lab (Teshikaga Marche)'! 📝 Teshikaga Navi contains a wide range of information, so please take a look! ✨ Thank you to 'Teshikaga Town Lab (Teshikaga Marche)' for your support of this event. 🙇🛶 We look forward to your continued support for the 'Teshikaga Photo Contest' and 'Teshikaga Navi'.

April 14th This morning, Azumino is beautifully clear According to the forecast, the weather seems to deteriorate in the evening, so if you want to enjoy the cherry blossoms, today is the day Have fun in the countryside of Azumino!!

On April 13th the cherry blossom trees along the Hotaka River, where the early spring song monument is located, have started to shed their petals... You can enjoy the picturesque scenery of Azumino, featuring cherry blossoms, wasabi fields, and the Northern Alps.

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!

This year's cherry blossoms are coming to an end👀✨ In the end, I encountered the gently swaying weeping cherry blossoms against a backdrop of blue sky. Watching the petals flutter down makes me feel a bit lonely, but I'm glad I could capture this moment in a photo... The seasons pass quickly, but I think I will keep this spring scenery in my heart forever. Thank you for this year's cherry blossoms🌸

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...

We look forward to everyone's participation in the following tours and experiences. 【*Spring session fully booked, summer and autumn spots available*】'Mt. Kamegamori Flower Watching Tour' Images 1-8 - Observe seasonal subalpine plants with a guide - Enjoy safe and secure private bus transportation - Experience the changing vegetation while traveling up to an elevation of about 1700m. - Take commemorative photos at scenic points - Stroll leisurely along paved paths and enjoy the mountain air easily. Date and Time: May 7th (Thursday) Spring session fully booked August 19th (Wednesday), 20th (Thursday) Summer session October 7th (Wednesday), 8th (Thursday), 21st (Wednesday) Autumn session Tour Fee: 8,900 yen Payment on the day of the tour, cash only (Includes: bus operation fee, guide fee, accident insurance, lunch) Each day from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (*Gathering at 8:35 AM, reception at the Saijo City Tourist Exchange Center next to iyosaijou station*) Capacity: 20 participants per session on a first-come, first-served basis (minimum number of participants is 15) Application Deadline: 14 days before each tour date 【*A few spots left*】 'Experience the Aroma of the Forest with Kuromoji' Images 9-11 - Enjoy part of the extraction process of Kuromoji essential oil and distillate, as well as a silk scarf dyeing experience - High-quality Japanese essential oil, distillate, and silk scarf extracted from just 1.5ml from 1kg of branches and leaves will be souvenirs - Relax in the noble aroma of the forest at the foot of the mountain Date and Time: May 18th (Monday), June 15th (Monday) Tour Fee: 6,000 yen, payment on the day of the tour, cash only (Includes: instructor fee, lunch) From 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM (*Gathering at 9:50 AM, reception at the Ishizuchi Nature and Living Research Room (former Ooboki Clinic)*) Capacity: 8 participants per session on a first-come, first-served basis (minimum number of participants is 4) Application Deadline: 10 days before each tour date Contact and Application Information (General Incorporated Association) Saijo City Tourism and Products Association Registered travel agency No. 3-201 by the Ehime Prefectural Governor Phone: 0897-56-2605 FAX: 0897-47-3733 #Tour #Nature #Ishizuchi #Plants #Stroll #Subalpine #Foot of the Mountain #Scenic View #Guide #Essential Oil #Distillate #Floral Water #Kuromoji

April 12 Cherry blossoms blooming in Azumino In the background, the Northern Alps The vibrant spring of Azumi Plain

April 12 Azumino Cherry Blossom Blooming Information The cherry blossom trees along Kurosawagawa are in full bloom!! The cherry blossom path extends for about 1 km Although the riverbank is a bit rough, it's a pleasant stroll along the trees.

On April 12th The warmth lately has made the flowering peach bloom... Usually, it happens after the cherry blossoms... Right now, Azumino is truly a riot of flowers This area is near Daio Wasabi Farm.

April 12th Azumino Cherry Blossom Blooming Information Weeping cherry trees along the foothills of Azumino Single cherry trees in Kitakokura, Tadai, and Minami-Kokura All have passed their peak and are beginning to fall...

Cherry blossoms can be seen all over the country, but... wasabi flowers can be enjoyed in Azumino! You can encounter the delicate white flowers in the wasabi fields of Azumino!

The opening day of Forest Park is just around the corner! It will open on Wednesday, April 29th, at 9:00 AM! 🎉 This year, there will be no events during the Golden Week period, but on the opening day, all playground equipment will be available for just 100 yen per use, so please come and enjoy! The tent sites will take a little longer to prepare until the grass is ready. *Expected to open around late May. - 【Nishiokoppe Forest Park】 From April 29th (Wednesday, holiday) to October 18th (Sunday) *Open every day during this period. 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM Parking available (free) #Open #GW #Playground equipment 100 yen

It's the perfect day for a drive🌸 Wherever you go, the cherry blossoms are beautiful, making you want to stop and take photos📸 Enjoying spring with my beloved car✨️