New Year Greetings Happy New Year. We extend our heartfelt thanks for your warm support and cooperation in promoting the charms of Tsukigase over the past year. Tsukigase, shaped alongside the plum trees, has matured into a countryside that quietly refreshes visitors’ spirits while showing different faces through the seasons. This year as well, we hope it remains a place where nature and people live close together and gentle exchanges thrive. The annual Tsukigase Plum Grove Plum Festival, which heralds the arrival of spring, will be held again this year. About 13,000 plum trees color the mountainside, and with river mist rising in the valleys, a scene like a page from an illustrated scroll unfolds. During the festival, you can enjoy peaceful moments close to nature, from walking the trails to shopping for local specialties. The fragrance of the plums swaying in the soft breeze will gently renew body and spirit after the long winter. This year, the Tsukigase Tourism Association will continue to cherish warm connections with visitors while protecting the area’s attractions. We humbly ask for your continued support and sincerely pray that this year will be peaceful and fruitful for everyone, offering these New Year greetings. Chairman: Toshiaki Nishioka Photo credit: Kuraya eto Shuji

Snow Trees Rime ice covering the trees at Gozaisho Ropeway Summit. One of the few places in Mie Prefecture where you can see rime ice on trees. Gozaisho Ropeway, Komonocho, Mie Prefecture

Happy New Year! This year I again photographed the first sunrise from the waterfront park. There was no wind and it was not as cold as in past years, but a warm layer of clouds on the horizon kept the sky dull and dim even after the scheduled sunrise time of 6:51. Around 7:05 the edges of the clouds began to glow, and just after 7:20 the sun finally appeared! As every year, many residents and tourists gathered early at the waterfront park to watch the first sunrise of Reiwa 8. May Reiwa 8 bring you a year full of happiness. We appreciate your continued support of Atami Onsen this year as well.

A photo taken during a trip to Shikoku. Taken on November 26 at Ritsurin Park in Kagawa. It was peak autumn foliage, and the contrast of red, yellow, and green looked wonderful. The weather was calm with no wind, and the trees reflected beautifully on the water. Once December arrives, it gets colder, and viewing night scenes becomes an experience of shivering in the cold. At the end of November, the temperature was pleasantly mild, so I enjoyed the autumn colors and took photos before the real winter set in.

New Year shrine-visit guide 🎍 This time we introduce Kikuchi Shrine, Hokumiya Aso Shrine, Hachidai Ryuo Shrine, and Mt. Kuradake. Kikuchi Shrine The shrine approach glows with warm lights at night, making for great photos. The "New Year Fortune Fukumikji" features luck-bringing prizes, including a Kikuchi Shrine award of an ever-growing half-sho of sacred sake and a grand prize of a zodiac ornament. Amazake is also available on the grounds, offering a relaxing warm break. Hokumiya Aso Shrine Hokumiya Aso Shrine sits right beside the gentle flow of the Kikuchi River. "Free Amazake Distribution" ・From New Year’s Eve, amazake will be distributed for free (while supplies last). "New Year Limited Goshuin" ・A limited goshuin stamp will be offered for the New Year. If you plan to watch the first sunrise, consider the views from Mt. Kuradake 🌄 Mt. Kuradake has a route that starts from the ninth station, so why not try a sunrise ascent to greet the first sun of the year? #Kikuchi Shrine #Mt. Kuradake hike #Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture https://kikuchikanko.ne.jp/archives/22620... https://kikuchikanko.ne.jp/archives/22679...

Kushiro, famed as one of the world’s top three sunset cities, actually offers unmissable sunrises as well. At Kushiro Prince Hotel, you can enjoy a luxurious sunrise and a sumptuous morning meal at the top-floor restaurant. Using kombu from the Nemuro Strait, the light soy-flavored Kushiro ramen and the fresh seafood rice bowl come with unlimited servings. Even Kushiro’s indulgent gourmet offerings include plenty of lighter options for morning diners who prefer a milder start. 【Instagram】 https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/...

Toyama Prefecture Tateyamamachi Shomyo Falls Snow fell late at night, letting the autumn leaves and snow perform together Standing close to Shomyo Falls, Japan’s tallest waterfall by drop, the roar of the water is overwhelming

Tateyamamachi, Toyama Prefecture Akashiro no Kabe Snow fell late at night, and around Shomyo Falls I saw a duet of autumn leaves and snow I arrived early in the morning, and some forest roads were frozen I photographed Akashiro no Kabe with a fisheye lens

Kamiichimachi, Toyama Prefecture – Mount Sengokujōyama This spot is reachable by car via a forest road Photographed from the forest road up Mount Sengokujōyama The beautiful autumn leaves and the snow-capped Tsurugi-dake made a stunning sight

Kamiichimachi, Toyama Prefecture – Seseragi no Komichi I walked from Seseragi no Komichi to near the check dam Mt. Tsurugi was nearby, but clouds got in the way so I couldn’t see it clearly; I’ll get a better shot next time

Kurikara Fudoji Temple Nishinobo Hououden (Phoenix Hall), Tsubatamachi, Ishikawa Prefecture Photographed the sunset from a hill during the autumn foliage It was a beautiful view

Kurikara Fudoji Nishinobo Hououden, Tsubatamachi, Ishikawa Prefecture I photographed the autumn leaves from a hilltop. Around sunset, a blanket of altocumulus clouds spread across the sky, creating a beautiful scene.

Please visit Izu Shimoda Onsen in 2026 (^○^) 🌼 Shimoda Onsen Narcissus Festival The flowers are expected to be at their best around mid-January ♬ After the narcissus, 🌸 Minamiizucho "Minami no Sakura and Rapeseed Blossom Festival" 🌸 Kawazu Town "Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival" Both are about a 30-minute drive from Shimoda City. Stay at Shimoda Onsen and enjoy the early spring flower relay ✨ Right now, JTB’s website is offering "discount coupons usable at Shimoda Onsen accommodations" (＼(^o^)／) Right now, JTB’s website is distributing great discount coupons usable at Shimoda Onsen accommodations (＼(^o^)／) No minimum fare required: 10% OFF ✨ (maximum discount 5,000 yen) Limited quantity! Take this chance to visit Shimoda Onsen ♨️ https://www.jtb.co.jp/kokunai-hotel/list/22219/?multiarea=22219&suggestkeyword=%E4%B8%8B%E7%94%B0%E5%B8%82&godate=&checkindate=&staynight=1&dateunspecified=1&roomassign=m2&room=1...

A direct service from Kushiro Airport to Kushiro Prince Hotel. Choose from a variety of room types, and this time we introduce the Twin Room. Every room offers sweeping views of Kushiro. With well-equipped amenities and facilities, you can relax with peace of mind. At Kushiro Prince Hotel, come experience a time that soothes the heart. 【Instagram】 https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/...

Shirahige Shrine sits a little off the main road of Imajo-shuku Post Town. It is affectionately known as the Lower Shrine in contrast to Shilla Shrine, which is called Kaminomiya or the Upper Shrine. This quiet, sacred place is lined with towering cedar trees around a slightly long flight of stone steps.

Winter at Lake Kussharo, the resort hotel on the Lake Kussharo shore The view from the guest room…a breathtaking panorama

A restaurant offering Japanese, Western, and Chinese dishes side by side. The chef’s recommended roast beef is — “Yamakou grape salt” ✨ Made using Yamakou, a Hokkaido-grown grape cultivated for winemaking at the caldera winery right in front of the hotel, the grape is repurposed and finished into a wine-infused salt. It deepens the flavor not only on meat but also when served with tempura. 【Instagram】 https://www.instagram.com/kussharo_ph/...

Shimoda Onsen Daffodil Festival now underway 😊 This year marks the 60th festival, and the flowers have been growing well; they are expected to reach full bloom around early January after the New Year holidays. The sweet scent carried on the sea breeze makes you want to take a deep breath. The familiar Ho-ei stall returns to the daffodil festival venue again this year! Their local fish dishes are plentiful and popular with both visitors and locals. This year’s new menu is a hand-rolled sushi set 🍣 Try rolling your own and enjoy the fun and flavor♪ [How to make hand-rolled sushi] https://youtu.be/rhaxqNB9pwE?si=0PobDLptvHwZziBM... Enjoy Shimoda cuisine along with the scent and scenery of the daffodils (^○^)

This photograph was taken at Nanjo Elementary School in Minami-Echizen Town. The light pink cherry blossoms stand out beautifully against the reddish-brown school building!

🌼Narcissus blooming update🌼 Overall, the flowers are just starting to bloom, and some slopes are already turning white❄️🤍 I summarized the flowering scene with photos on my blog! https://www.shimoda-city.info/post/20251226...

I want to end the year at my favorite spot on the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Route, Hosshinmon Oji Shrine in the rain. If you have the chance someday, please visit. Why not walk the Kumano Kodo and let your mind wander to the ancient past? You will find magical landscapes and encounters with the people who live there.

A quiet moment spent in the lobby. At Kussharo Prince Hotel, surrounded by nature, you might encounter Ezo squirrels, long-tailed titmice, and owls. Downstairs you will find a convenience shop and merchandise featuring Kusshy, a symbol of Kussharo. On the third floor we offer the Kussharo Onsen Large Public Bath, which is also available for day-use bathing. 【Instagram】 https://www.instagram.com/kussharo_ph/...

Did you know that some areas in Hiroshima Prefecture get heavy snowfall? ⛄ Shobara City, located in the heart of the Chugoku region at the northernmost part of Hiroshima Prefecture, is known as one of the prefecture’s major heavy-snow zones. You can ski and snowboard at three ski areas in Shobara—Hiroshima Kenmin-no-Mori Ski Area, Dogoyama Kogen Ski Resort, and Ringo Kyowakoku Ski Area—and some campers enjoy winter camping at local campgrounds, so you can get active and enjoy various snow activities. At the National Bihoku Hillside Park, the winter illumination event “Bihoku Illumi” is taking place. The display runs through Monday, January 12, 2026 (a public holiday). Enjoy a magical time with your loved ones as snow, light, and sound come together. ⛄ Also, on Sunday, February 1, a snowball fight tournament will be held. Spectators are welcome even if you don’t participate. Winter is the time to visit Shobara! Please come and see us…! ✨ For winter event details, see below🔽 https://www.shobara-info.com/event/133... Visit the “Shobara Tourism Navi” website🔽 https://www.shobara-info.com//

Special coupon offer available at Kawayu Onsen! Tokutoku Coupon 2026 A new savings campaign, the Tokutoku Coupon, has begun for guests staying at hotels affiliated with the Kawayu Onsen Ryokan Association! Guests who stay at any of the three participating hotels—Kawayu Kanko Hotel, Oyado Kinkiyu Bettei Suikazura, or KKR Kawayu—will receive discount coupons worth a total of ¥2,000 to use at participating businesses. Pick up the coupons at your hotel front desk and present them at the shops listed on the MAP to receive the discount. The campaign runs from January 15, 2026, through the end of March 2026, but will end once coupons run out. Take advantage of this great deal to enjoy hot springs and local dining in the Kawayu Onsen area! [Coupon distribution period] Thursday, January 15, 2026 – through the end of March 2026 *Distribution ends when coupons are gone* [Coupon details] Discount coupons totaling ¥2,000 − A ¥1,000 discount coupon valid for payments at snacks and bars (MAP NO 2, 3, 8) − A ¥1,000 discount coupon valid for payments at izakayas, cafes, and other listed establishments (excluding MAP NO 2, 3, 8) [Shops where coupons can be used] 1) Cafe Noble 2) Snack COCO 3) Zakku & Baran 4) Miraku Sushi 5) Inakaya Genpei 6) Izakaya Matsurigura 7) Robata Maruhachi 8) Unite 9) Hokkaido Kitchen 9 Shiro 10) Orchard grass 11) Cream Fairy Tale Chup [Hotels distributing the coupons] Kawayu Kanko Hotel, Oyado Kinkiyu Bettei Suikazura, KKR Kawayu (hotels affiliated with the Kawayu Onsen Ryokan Association) *Only guests currently staying at or who have stayed at the above participating accommodations are eligible* *Guests wishing to use the coupons should request them at the front desk.* [Other information] • Depending on the day of the week and time, shops may be busy. • We recommend contacting each shop in advance for reservations or inquiries. • Shops will tear off the coupon when used, so please bring it as issued. (Coupons that have already been torn will be invalid. Please take care.) [Organizer and coupon issuer] Kawayu Restaurants and Bars Association https://www.masyuko.or.jp/news/tokutoku2026/...

December 24th From JR Ōito Line hotaka station, MtJonen in the Northern Alps looked beautiful On clear days, you can see the snow‑covered Northern Alps from the train window Enjoy the view through the window as you stop by Azumino♪

Kopi: Introduction Video to Nishiokoppe Village [1] - The introduction video to Nishiokoppe Village has been released ① - Kopi is active as a singer, actor, and influencer. Following last year, Kopi visited Nishiokoppe Village again this year! Over a one-night, two-day stay, she toured many spots in Nishiokoppe Village and introduced them to viewers 🏃🏃🏃 The Experience Farm, where visitors can stay long-term while taking part in agricultural activities, Forest Park, where you can play at a batting center and go-karts, the village’s only supermarket Q Mart, Tao Shoten, where you can buy venison and bear meat sourced within the village, Okhotsk Musical Instrument Industry Co., Ltd., which manufactures electric guitar bodies, GA.KOPPER, a guest house renovated from a wooden junior high school that closed down, and Roadside Station Nishiokoppe Kamu, where you can enjoy a flower park. In a roughly 30-minute video, all of these are tightly packed together ✨ For more on Okhotsk Musical Instrument Industry Co., Ltd., watch the upcoming YouTube video featuring Mayu Kondo or Kopi’s past videos to see detailed manufacturing processes 👀 Fans of Kopi won’t want to miss her cooking scenes. Don’t miss how she enjoys Nishiokoppe venison and Kouei beef! Watching the video will make you want to eat it 🤤 Kopi braved the cold of Hokkaido in October to convey the experience. Thank you, Kopi, for visiting Nishiokoppe Village! #Settlement promotion #Introduction video #Kopi #Influencer #Actor #Eat #Stay

Yamanaka Tunnel, registered as part of the Japan Heritage "Railways Across the Sea: Miracles of Tracks Connecting to the World." This brick tunnel makes for a charming, retro photo spot. It’s recommended not only for railway and tunnel enthusiasts but also for photography lovers!

Hello 😃 This is Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Senga Falls Store. As Christmas approaches, the town fills with sparkle and warmth in this season. One place to visit in the crisp winter air is Shosenkyo Gorge, a scenic treasure of Yamanashi Prefecture. Steep rock formations and ravine beauty stretch through Shosenkyo, known as one of Japan’s premier gorges. In winter, its quiet and pristine beauty soothes the spirit. Located deep within the gorge, Senga Falls is the signature waterfall of Shosenkyo. The roughly 30-meter drop roaring down the rock face makes a powerful sight, and in the cold winter air the spray feels even more magical. If you’re lucky, frost will coat the rocks, letting you enjoy nature’s own winter artwork. For a special moment with someone dear before Christmas, consider visiting Shosenkyo and Senga Falls to be wrapped in nature’s grandeur and silence. They will help you weave a memorable winter experience. At Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Senga Falls Store, we carry many wines 🍷 recommended for Christmas and the New Year. Please find your favorite bottle with us.♪ We also offer rich grape juice 🍇 and pure peach juice 🍑 for children and those who do not drink alcohol. With the year drawing to a close, we look forward to welcoming you from the bottom of our hearts.

[Shimekazari-style Arrangement ②] Works I couldn’t fully introduce 🌿 Shimenawa Decoration Shimekazari-style Arrangement Lesson

Shimenawa-style arrangements completed They turned out absolutely lovely We created shimenawa-style arrangements! A workshop was held to decorate shimenawa with dried flowers, foliage, and berries. Mr. Sato drove all the way from Kitahiroshima to onesmanorgarden, braving winter roads once again. He brought a large supply of materials, so it was fun just to look and fun to choose. While making them, people worried and struggled when things didn’t go as planned, but it was still enjoyable. Seeing a neighbor’s piece, you’d think, “That arrangement works too!” or “That color combination is amazing!”—reactions that escaped everyone’s lips. Even before finishing, imaginations ran wild with thoughts like, “Next time I’d like to try making it this way.” There were three lessons over two days: early afternoon, evening, and the next morning. A total of 18 people took part. Thank you very much 🌿 The next time we’ll see Mr. Sato will be next year――― I wonder when that will be. We’re looking forward to what he’ll create next and what flowers and foliage we’ll encounter… Can’t wait! shimenawa decoration arrangement lesson dried flowers year-end New Year