The limited-time flower water display at Tokyo Daijingu Shrine, "Choyo no Sekku Hanamizuki - A Treasure Box of Abundance," is available until Thursday, September 10th.

[Gurufura Drive 2026] Explore the Gourmet & Flower Attractions of Three Towns The Gurufura Drive project is starting again this year! Visit the gardens and events in Kamikawa-cho, Takinoue Town, and Nishiokoppe Village, and be sure to apply for the special product giveaways🎁 The Gurutto Prize offers items worth 10,000 yen, while the Furatto Prize offers items worth 3,000 yen✨ Event Period: From Friday, September 4, 2026 to Monday, October 12, 2026 (National Holiday) How to Participate: 1. Get a stamp collection sheet 2. Get stamps at gardens or events 3. Once you collect three or more stamps, drop your sheet into the application box Additionally, if you bring your stamp collection sheet to designated restaurants or tourist facilities, you will receive an original sticker! The stickers feature designs that connect the three towns, so we would be delighted if you could collect all three types🙂 We look forward to your many applications! #Nishiokoppe Village #Gurufura Drive #Garden Tour #Stamp Rally #Local Specialties

Today, I visited Tokyo Daijingu Shrine. It was a first-day visit.

The Bungo Inukai Fireworks Festival will be held at Ono River Riverside Park in Inukai Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. This fireworks festival, said to be the birthplace of Bungo fireworks, attracts many visitors every autumn. This year, about 3,000 fireworks will illuminate the night sky. The launch is scheduled for 7:20 PM, allowing attendees to enjoy the fireworks leisurely as the sun sets and the air begins to cool. There will be special paid viewing seats for the fireworks near the venue (2,000 yen per seat). Reservations are not accepted in advance; tickets will only be sold on the day of the event, so please be aware of this. The event is expected to be bustling with many visitors, and parking congestion is anticipated. Since the number of parking spaces is limited, if you plan to come by car, please arrive early. If possible, consider using public transportation as well. Join us for a night of autumn fireworks lighting up the sky in Inukai. 【Date and Time】 Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 7:20 PM for the fireworks launch. *Will proceed in light rain, canceled in inclement weather. 【Location】 Ono River Riverside Park (Inukai Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture) 【Fee】 Special paid viewing seat 2,000 yen per seat *No reservations; tickets sold only on the day. 【Access】 About a 10-minute walk from Inukai Station on JR; about a 2-minute walk from the Inukai Kuhara bus stop on Oita Bus. 【Parking】 Available *Limited spaces. 【Contact】 Bungo-Ono City Tourism Association TEL: 0974-27-4215 ■■Access from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture to the center of Bungoono City■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture. About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture. About a 1 hour and 20-minute drive from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture. About a 1 hour and 20-minute drive from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture. ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing recommended spots for tourism in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

At Roadside Station Yachiho Kogen's Bloomin, you can find a wide variety of plums on display! 👏🏻👏🏻 A plum harvest calendar is also posted at the store, which can help you choose the right variety.✨ Enjoy the plums that are unique to this season!

🌸Okhotsk Flower Tour Campaign at Aeon Mall Asahikawa West🌸 The charm of flowers and tourism from Okhotsk gathers in Asahikawa! The "Okhotsk Flower Tour" created by Mombetsu City, Engaru Town, Yubetsu Town, and Takinoue Town will be visiting Aeon Mall Asahikawa West✨ 📅 August 22nd (Saturday) 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM 📍 Aeon Mall Asahikawa West 1F Green Court 🌟Recommended Highlights🌟 🐻 Local characters will gather! 🔍 Find the "password" with the characters and get an original flower tour badge! 🍬 Follow us on social media to receive a special design of Hi-Chew candy for the first 100 people! 🪨 Join us for making obsidian keychains! (Fee 300 yen) 🛍️ There will also be sales of specialty products from the four cities and towns! Additionally, we will introduce recommended sightseeing spots and autumn events in each region🍁 This autumn, why not visit Okhotsk? First, please find "Okhotsk" at Aeon Mall Asahikawa West on August 22nd😊 #Okhotsk Flower Tour #Takinoue Town Tourism Association #Aeon Mall Asahikawa West #Okhotsk Tourism #Tourism Campaign

On August 26th, 2019, we held the Mt. Kamegamori Flower Watching Tour. We comfortably traveled by chartered bus up to an elevation of 1,700 meters. Participants enjoyed the changes in vegetation, stunning views, and plant explanations by professional guides. In summer, the number of flowers is at its peak, providing a refreshing experience. Next, as follows, we will hold tours in October. On October 7th (Wednesday), 8th (Thursday), and 21st (Wednesday). We are currently accepting applications to enjoy the autumn mountain atmosphere. We hope you will join us! For inquiries and reservations: 0897-56-2605

【Training Information】 Are you interested in learning about sustainable tourism? In Teshikagacho, we promote "sustainable tourism" under the slogan "To the city you want to go, to the city you want to live in," ensuring happiness for both residents and visitors. This autumn, we will hold four seminars on sustainable tourism. Each seminar is designed to be accessible, enjoyable, and practical. All are free, so we invite you to take this opportunity to participate. Seminar Overview ■ October 5 (Mon) - 7 (Wed) for three days GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training ■ October 13 (Tue) from 1 PM to 4 PM Diversity in Food Seminar & Cooking Workshop ■ November 17 (Tue) from 1 PM to 4:30 PM Cross-Cultural Communication Seminar with JAL Flight Attendants ■ December 1 (Tue) from 10 AM to 4 PM Sustainable Training for Accommodations and Tourist Facilities For details on each seminar, please check below. https://www.masyuko.or.jp/news/seminar_2026/...

Announcement of the Onneto Guide Walk 📣 If you want to learn about the rich nature of Hokkaido and Onneto, or if you wish to take a leisurely walk along the quiet lakeside and forest for some relaxation, the "Onneto Guide Walk" is perfect for beginners. Join a guide from Hotori LLC and rediscover the charm of Onneto while strolling by the lakeside. The walk is 3.7 km around Onneto and takes about 2 hours. 🔶 Dates: August 3, 2026 - October 31, 2026 (Please check Hotori LLC's social media for the operating days) 🔶 Location: Lakeside Rest House at Onneto 🔶 Fee: 6,600 yen per person (including insurance), 【10% off for social media followers】 *Free for ages 3 to under 6 🔶 Times: ① 10:00 AM, ② 1:00 PM 🔶 Group Size: 1 to 5 people 🔶 Application Method: Please apply through the application form. 🔶 Other: We are currently not accepting group bookings. Thank you for your understanding. 🔶 Contact: Hotori LLC (Contact: Fuke) TEL: 0156-28-0115 (10:00 AM - 5:00 PM) *If the person in charge is unavailable, we will return your call. 🔶 Hotori LLC's Instagram → @hotori.onneto https://forms.gle/UY2jCNbv693KUe1o7...

"No tools! No knowledge! Just come as you are! 🎣" "I want my kids to fish, but preparing and teaching them is tough..." Good news for all the parents out there! A hands-on fishing experience event taught by professionals is starting in Reihoku's sea! ✨ Thank you for always following the posts from the Amakusa Reihoku Tourist Association! Today, we are excited to announce an experience event that will create the best memories of this autumn! 🌊✨ Local fishermen and anglers will kindly teach the kids, so even those who have never touched a fishing rod can aim for big catches with confidence! This experience includes a luxurious double feature! 👇 ①Catch fish from the shore using sabiki! (About 2 hours) We'll target seasonal horse mackerel and more! Be sure to capture the shining smiles of your kids when they catch something! 📸 ②Challenge yourself to fillet a sea bream! (About 2 hours) We'll move to the community center right in front of the port to fillet the sea bream! This experience is perfect for food education, as it teaches "gratitude for receiving life". 🐟 All you need to bring is "clothes that can get dirty and excitement"! However... to provide careful support, we can only accept 【3 groups (10 people max) per session】. 😭 Popular dates are likely to fill up quickly, so check the details and sign up now! 🗓 Event Overview 〇Date (Choose a convenient day): ・Saturday, September 12th, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM ・Monday, September 21st (Public Holiday), 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM ・Saturday, September 26th, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM 〇Location: Nishikawauchi Fishing Port & Nishikawauchi Community Center (Sakase River, Reihokumachi, Amakusa District, Kumamoto Prefecture) 〇Capacity: 10 participants per session (up to 3 families) 〇Participation Fee (including rental fishing gear, sea bream for filleting, and insurance): ・Adults: 3,000 yen ・Children under junior high school: 1,500 yen (free for preschoolers) 〇What to bring: Clothes that can get dirty, a hat, a towel, drinks (cooler bag for take-home and ice packs) 🔗【How to Apply】 Applications are currently being accepted through the official website linked in the profile! *Registration will close once capacity is reached. If you're wondering, "Where should I go for the autumn holiday?", please sign up from the link in the profile before the spots fill up! 🔗

Every culture has its own special season for fireworks. In many parts of the Western world, winter brings the sparkle of fireworks, while in the part of Asia where I come from, autumn is illuminated by the lights of Diwali. But when I came to Japan, I discovered something beautifully different—**summer has a special place for fireworks here.** The sight of people in traditional yukata, enjoying taiyaki, gathering with friends and family, and waiting for the night sky to burst into a grand display of *hanabi* feels uniquely Japanese. The warmth of the summer evening, the laughter around me, and the vivid colors blooming across the sky create memories that stay long after the last firework fades. This photograph captures the **Toda Fireworks Festival**, taken this year from my rooftop—a summer night I will never forget.

During the three-day weekend, I finally experienced my long-awaited first riverbed dining. For some reason, a certain famous somen phrase popped into my head while I was here in Akizuki, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture. Contrary to the soothing sounds of water I had imagined, I was overwhelmed by the dynamic sound of rushing water, like "gogo." At the beginning of each month, I secretly enjoy changing my smartphone wallpaper to a recent memory photo. Even in the sweltering summer heat, I can't wait for August to change it to this photo!

Mynavi Tour de Kyushu 2026 Oita-Kumamoto Stage ❚ Taking place on October 11, 2026 On October 11, Bungo-Ono will serve as the starting point for the international road race! The athletes will sprint along the roads leading to Harajiri Falls and Kuju Highland. Why not join us on-site to watch the exciting day unfold? The international cycling road race "Mynavi Tour de Kyushu 2026" will be held in Kyushu On October 11 (Sunday), STAGE 2 Oita-Kumamoto Stage will start in front of Bungo-Ono City Hall. The Oita-Kumamoto Stage covers approximately 128 km, departing from Bungo-Ono City and passing through Taketa City, Minamiogunimachi, Ubuyama, Aso City, and Takamori Town before heading to Minamiasomura. The route will pass by tourist attractions such as Harajiri Falls and Kuju Highland, then head south along Yamanami Highway. Athletes will race through scenic views of the Aso Outer Rim Mountains and vast grasslands. We invite you to come and witness the athletes in action on-site. ■ What is Tour de Kyushu Tour de Kyushu is a UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) sanctioned cycling road race. It has been decided to be held as an event symbolizing the legacy of the Rugby World Cup, the promotion of cycling tourism in Kyushu , and the recovery from recent natural disasters. Not only is it an exciting competition, but it also serves as a platform to widely promote the natural beauty, landscapes, and local attractions of Kyushu.

Cape Tang Waterfall With a height of 114 meters and seven tiers, it is known as "the Women's Waterfall" due to its elegance. Located near the border with Ufu District, it cascades in the valley of Warishi Pass, offering beautiful views amidst the autumn foliage. It takes about 20 minutes (500 meters) to walk from the parking lot. The mountain path is not easy to navigate, so caution is necessary as you descend the slope. In the parking area, there is a monument inscribed with a haiku by Natsume Sōseki.

Shiraito Falls A three-tiered waterfall with a height of 30 meters. In summer, the stream's water and breeze are refreshing, while the autumn foliage is vibrant. In winter, it freezes, showcasing a majestic beauty, allowing visitors to enjoy the changing seasons. It is 370 meters from the parking lot to the waterfall. As you cross a small bridge, you can enjoy a nature-filled hiking course abundant in negative ions.

It took a year to finally complete it. I took photos of Doctor Yellow in the vicinity of Omi Nagaoka Nishiyama Castle Ruins throughout spring, summer, autumn, and winter. In spring, there are cherry blossoms; in summer, a blue sky; in autumn, the foliage; and in winter, snow.

🌊 A Day to Become a Diver in the Sea of Japan Leaving the bustling streets of Tokyo, we head to Nishi-Izu. This time, we visit Shizura, where a quiet sea stretches out. The sky was cloudy, but the temperature was pleasant for spending time by the sea. As we gazed at the calm waters, our first steps toward becoming divers began. This time, the participants are all aiming to obtain their diving licenses for the first time. 🤿 Preparation Before Entering the Water Diving starts before entering the water. First, we prepare equipment like tanks and regulators. Listening to the instructor's explanations, we assemble each piece with our own hands. At first, the unfamiliar equipment feels daunting. However, after practicing several times while checking the order, we gradually start to understand how it works. Once preparations are complete, we have a briefing in front of the sea. We all review what we will do underwater, the conditions of the sea that day, and points for safe enjoyment. 🫧 The World Underwater, Breathing for the First Time With our gear on, we finally head into the sea. First, we adjust our breathing at the surface. Feeling a bit nervous with the unfamiliar equipment, we slowly make our way into the water. Once submerged, the surrounding sounds become quiet. Fish swim right in front of us, and the seabed is spread with rocks and sand. It's a completely different view from the land. Initially focused on breathing and posture, as we get more comfortable, we find ourselves enjoying the underwater scenery. When everyone returns to the surface, smiles have replaced the nervous expressions. 🌏 Over Three Days, an Entrance to a New World In the PADI Open Water Diver Course, we learn the necessary knowledge and skills for diving over three days. Breathing underwater, using equipment, and the basics of diving safely. Each experience builds upon the last, and everyone successfully obtained their licenses. Obtaining the license is not the goal. It's a new start to enjoy the seas of Japan and around the world. Thank you to everyone who participated. 🇯🇵 The Seas of Japan Are Recommended in Autumn Too When thinking about the season to enjoy the sea in Japan, many might picture summer. In fact, the sea in Izu is most comfortable around September to October. The water temperature is high, making it an easy season to enjoy diving. If you obtain your license during summer, you can fully enjoy the sea during the best season. There's another side of Japan that you won't encounter just by sightseeing in Tokyo or Yokohama. Why not take a step into a new world during your travels? Time spent underwater will surely become a special memory of your journey. ✨ A Special Day by the Sea in Japan. 🌈 Hokulea Shonan is a small diving shop located in Hiratsuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture. About an hour by train from Tokyo. We guide you to the seas of Japan that can be enjoyed as day trips from Tokyo, such as Shonan and Izu. Our theme is "Let's embark on a journey to the unseen world!" Through diving, we hope you can feel the beauty of Japan's seas, the richness of nature, and the local seaside experience. Our tours are small in size. Beginners and those who are not confident in swimming can participate with peace of mind. We also provide guidance in English. Would you like to spend a day by the sea during your trip to Japan? We will suggest a sea that suits you according to your travel schedule and diving experience. Please feel free to contact us.

Taishaku Gorge ❚ Oita Bungo-Ono Geopark Located in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Taishaku Gorge is a scenic area surrounded by cliffs of welded tuff with developed columnar jointing, stretching along the Okudake River. The rock walls on both sides rise about 70 meters high, creating a majestic and impressive landscape in conjunction with the clear blue river flow. Taishaku Gorge is a canyon formed by the erosion of welded tuff created by a massive eruption of Mount Aso 90,000 years ago, with the Okudake River gradually carving it over a long period. The valley floor exposes rocks formed by volcanic activity around 15 million years ago, allowing visitors to closely feel the geological history of the area. It is also known as one of the geo-sites of the Oita Bungo-Ono Geopark, attracting attention for its natural landscape and geological value. Additionally, slightly upstream, there is a cave where charred wood, baked by pyroclastic flows, is buried, preserving traces of volcanic activity. Walking along the promenade brings visitors closer to the riverside, allowing for a more intimate experience of the rock faces, the tranquil air of the gorge, and the clarity of the water, which are all part of the charm of Taishaku Gorge. In summer, the clear waters present a refreshing landscape, while autumn brings colorful foliage to the gorge. With its varying expressions throughout the seasons, Taishaku Gorge is one of the representative natural landscapes of Bungoono City, and it is a spot that many people should visit. 【Location】Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kobara 【Access】About 20 minutes by car from JR Ogata Station 【Parking】Available 【Restroom】Available ■■■Access to the center of Bungoono City■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Kyushu, introducing recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Wind Children Pīhyara Troupe Kazenoko Theater Company Hokkaido returns to Nishiokoppe Village! Saturday, July 4th Doors open at 17:30 / Show starts at 18:00 At Nishiokoppe Village Community Center Grand Hall 500 yen for ages 3 and up For the 30 minutes before the show, there will be time for traditional games like kendama and bamboo-copter. When they visited last autumn, we enjoyed watching newspaper play and after the performance, we got caught up in playing at the venue. Just when you think you're playing, the story has begun without you noticing... The boundaries between play and theater are blurred, making it a mysterious theater company. Tickets are also on sale. For inquiries, please contact 090-8631-0781 (Kikukawa). #Theater #Kazenoko Theater Company #Traditional games #Pīpu-Pīhyara Troupe

The autumn leaves at Konzoin Temple in Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture, are stunning. When the maple trees along the approach turn bright red, it's truly magnificent. However, perhaps due to global warming, everything doesn't turn completely red anymore. Still, the maple tree next to the bell tower turns bright red, and I love seeing it basking in the morning sun.

This is Hanadaka Flower Hill Lookout in Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture. This time, we showcase the autumn cosmos fields. In the background is Mt. Akagi. Being on a hill allows for a great view of the surroundings. As seasonal flowers are planted, the scenery changes, adding to the excitement.

Nogi Hofmann Hall, located in Nogimachi, Tochigi Prefecture, is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan and is a place where visitors can observe a brick kiln. Next to it, a row of dawn redwoods continues. In the evening, it is illuminated, offering a wonderful view. I was moved when the pathway turned red with fallen leaves. I believe it is a hidden gem that is not widely known.

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

Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy a moment of tranquility at Shoishohama Beach, renowned for its exceptional beauty and selected as one of Japan's top 88 bathing spots. We are excited to announce the "NIGHT WAVE - Light Wave Project in Shoishohama." This project is supervised by NIGHT WAVE Co., Ltd., a company with extensive experience in light displays, allowing you to experience a special space enveloped in enchanting blue light. Witness the breathtaking gradient created by the setting sun transforming into the shimmering blue waves. This series of artistic experiences will gently stimulate your senses, inviting you into a space woven with the sounds of the waves, the sea breeze, and light. It truly is a mindful healing time that focuses your awareness on "the here and now." Regain your peace of mind and immerse yourself in the magical scenery of the beautiful sunset at Shoishohama and the blue, illuminated waves. We invite you to experience this miracle. Event Overview NIGHT WAVE - Light Wave Project in Shoishohama (Date) From Saturday, October 17, 2026, to Monday, October 19, 2026 (Time) 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM (sunset expected around 5:19 PM) (Venue) In front of the second parking lot at Shoishohama Beach (approximately 200 meters of shoreline illuminated) (Supervision) NIGHT WAVE Co., Ltd. (Lighting Support) Pi Photonics, Inc. Event Features - Breathtaking shoreline light display : Blue lights dance with the waves, creating a unique and enchanting spectacle. - Torii gate illumination : Experience the lighting of the torii gate standing at Shoishohama and a path of light leading to it. - Gentle lighting decoration at your feet : Lights along the bridge path and viewing areas will support your steps. - Appealing food trucks : Warm beverages and snacks will enrich your autumn nights. - A cozy dining space with lanterns : Enjoy your meal while admiring the enchanting scenery. - Mindfulness sound : Pleasant music that promotes mindfulness through auditory experience will envelop the space. Important Notes and Safety Guidelines To provide everyone with a safe and comfortable experience, please keep the following points in mind. - The sea at night can be very dangerous. Please enjoy the event only within the designated viewing areas. We cannot be held responsible for any accidents that occur within the venue or during the viewing. - There will be no seating available at the venue. If needed, please bring your own chairs or mats. - Some coastal areas may have limited lighting at night. For safety, we strongly recommend bringing a flashlight. - Parking spaces are limited, so we kindly ask everyone to share and use them considerately. - We cannot be held responsible for any accidents or thefts that occur in the parking area. - This event utilizes natural phenomena, so due to weather conditions or wave conditions, the sunset and glowing waves may not be clearly visible. - In the event of sudden bad weather or unavoidable circumstances, the event may be canceled without prior notice. Notifications of cancellations will be posted on the town's website. This autumn, indulge in an unparalleled mindfulness experience woven by light and waves, exclusively at Shoishohama. [Office] Mihama Town Tourism Promotion Division Phone: 0770-32-6705 (8:30 AM - 5:15 PM)

The view from Kanmuriyama Summit in Akiyoshidai is breathtaking. It takes about 30 minutes from the parking lot, and the sunrise trekking allows you to enjoy the vast world all to yourself.

Built in 1910, Kourakukan is a theater located in Kosakamachi, Akita Prefecture. While there are several theaters that remain as Important Cultural Properties, Kourakukan is one of the few that still hosts regular performances and is actively used today. "A building truly comes alive when it's in use." Although I can't include photos from the performances due to copyright restrictions, it's heartwarming to know that even grandparents have their favorite performers! This facility is a source of enjoyment for the townspeople—"that's why we can preserve it." Overall, it was a place that left a positive impression.

Akita dogs are really cute. These little ones also greeted us cutely lined up at the 'Roadside Station Kazuno Antler's showcase.' When you come to Akita, you can find such small moments of warmth everywhere.

This is the Taushubetsu River Bridge in Kamishihoro Town, Hokkaido. It has a unique presence reminiscent of an ancient ruin. In the past, it was accessible freely, but now the gates are closed. You need to either reserve a key from the roadside station or join a tour from places like the Higashitaisetsu Nature Guide Centre to visit. You can park your car before the forest road gate and walk or bike there, but it's a rough 4-kilometer gravel road. Also, it's out of mobile service range, so there’s no way to contact anyone in case of trouble. Additionally, this area is a habitat for brown bears, so all actions are at your own risk. Every year, the bridge sinks into the lake after autumn and freezes in mid-winter, leading to weathering and collapse in various places. Some parts also crumbled during the spring earthquake. It won't be long before it can no longer maintain its complete arch.

"We are all connected!" The wrapped train of the Akita Nairiku Line seems to echo Shinnosuke's voice. Father's hometown, Akita; mother's Kumamoto; and now living in Saitama— the lands of our family are depicted on a single train car. "The tracks and the bonds are connected straight, aren't they?" After a long time, my heart warmed with nostalgia, and I pointed my camera. Why not come visit "Akita" on the Akita Nairiku Line?

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