【Flowering Information 1】Saitobaru We would like to inform you of the flowering status of Saitobaru on March 19 (Water). The rape flowers in Saitobaru have begun to bloom, albeit little by little. Cherry blossoms are still in buds. As in every year, it is expected to reach its best time to visit at the end of this month. ■ Information on Toilets and Car Parking in the Saitobaru Kofun Tumulus Group Saitobaru Guidance CenterIn addition to the Toilet of Konohanakan Saitobaru there are six public Toilet in the Kofun Tumulus (Imperial Tomb Square, Takatoriyama Parking Lot Car, Takatoriyama Parking Lot, Kofun Tumulus Car Parking Lot, Kofun Tumulus Car Parking Lot 2, Kofun Tumulus Car Parking Lot 3, and Saitobaru Sports Park, so please Use those as well. (with multi-purpose Toilet) * For details, please see the West City Tourism Association website.

Arao’s Top 7 Stamina Dishes — Part 2 Here are Arao City’s delicious stamina-boosting dishes. From addictive signature flavors to hearty rice bowls! These insanely tasty plates will power you up and keep your energy high! 2. Kumamoto Horse Sashimi Assortment, Five Cuts — Rakusai Dining Kuito This Kumamoto specialty features five cuts—marbled, premium horse sashimi, lean red meat, kone (fatty mane), and futaego—each offering different sweetness and textures. Enjoy them with garlic soy, fresh grated ginger, or spicy miso, pairing each condiment to the cut. Rakusai Dining Kuito — Highlights Available only twice a month! Their rare raw horse liver sashimi, prepared with a focus on freshness, offers a unique taste you won’t find elsewhere. The izakaya also prides itself on daily-selected fresh fish from direct sources, Hinomoto pork from Nagomi Town in Kumamoto Prefecture, and premium binchotan charcoal skewers. Spend a fun evening that sparks lively conversation with someone special. *Arrival of horse liver sashimi will be announced on social media.* Name: Rakusai Dining Kuito Address: 1616-67 Shimoide, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture, inside Green Smile Ichibankan Phone: 0968-66-0804 Hours: 11:30–15:00, 17:00–23:00 Closed: Thursdays, New Year’s Day Seating capacity: 100 seats Private rooms: Available Smoking: Outdoor smoking area provided Website: https://www.kuraudo.site// Social: LINE, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter

[Announcement ❄️ of Winter Gokase 2025❄️ Results] Thank you for waiting! !️ Announcement 🥳🎉 of the results of "Winter Gokase 2025" This time, in addition to the followers of the Gokase Tourism Association's Instagram Account, we decided 👏✨ the winning item by voting by Facebook and Google Form Thank you to 🙇 ♀️💕 everyone who voted Now, let's announce the 👇👇👇 results [🥇 Gold Award] Mr. @mas8787a [🥈 Silver Prize] Mr. @fowafuwarin5 [🥉 Bronze Award] Mr. @yamabico_san The Gokase Highland Ski Resort, which has been revived in yellowtail three years, and the winter appearance of Josenji Temple, which enjoys beautiful scenery in both Spring and autumn, won prizes 🤩✨ It is raining today, but there was a lot of snow this year, so ❄️ there are many difficulties, but I am always amazed 👏 by the power of Nature that creates beautiful scenery and by the people who express themselves through the viewfinder Congratulations ㊗️🥳🎉 to all the winners And There is a to 😭❤️ 🔥 everyone who applied, voted, and participated Spring is finally here 🌸 We will inform you of the Spring campaign soon, so when you come to Gokase to enjoy cherry blossom viewing, please take many photos and cry when 😭💕 you participate 💫 Best regards

Seven Stamina Gourmet Picks from Arao — Part 1 Introducing Arao City's delicious stamina-boosting dishes. From addictive flavors to hearty rice bowls! These insanely tasty menu items will fill you with energy and never let you down! 1. Assorted Offal Platter — Wafu Yakiniku Barikiya Heart, senmai (third stomach), liver, red senmai, and tecchan — five parts with distinct flavors and textures. Each offers abundant nutrients such as B vitamins, vitamin E, minerals, and iron, making them ideal for replenishing stamina. Enjoy them with a garlic-rich soy sauce glaze! Wafu Yakiniku Barikiya — What makes this place special! This yakiniku restaurant offers many menu options, including great-value lunches. As a butcher-run shop, they purchase whole A5-grade Kuroge Wagyu cattle, so you can try rare cuts. They focus on freshness management to serve safe, high-quality, and delicious meat. ◆Name: Wafu Yakiniku Barikiya ◆Address: 1616-67 Shimoide, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture, inside Green Smile Ichibankan ◆Phone: 0968-66-4129 ◆Hours: 11:30–15:00, 17:00–22:30 ◆Closed: Wednesdays (may change on holidays), New Year’s Day ◆Seats: 100 ◆Private rooms: Yes ◆Smoking seats: No ◆Website: http://www.barikiya.com// ◆SNS: Facebook・Instagram

\🌸 Takao no Naka City 🌸/ Held in again this year! Takaonaka City is one of the three major cities in Kagoshima Prefecture. For two days, on the day of the Spring Equinox and the next day, it becomes a pedestrian paradise for about 1 km from north to south, east and west, centered on the intersection in front of Takaono Station, and many stalls are lined up. Various Events will be Held in Main Venue the parking lot of the JA Takaono Office Car. It is also known as "Soba City" and there are Soba noodle stores lined up in the venue. It will be very crowded on the day of the event, so please Use public transportation or the free shuttle bus from the Car parking lot to the venue. —————————— ■ Takao no Naka City Date: Thursday, March 20, 2025 and Friday, March 21, 2025 【Place】Takaono Station Crossing (24 Shibiki, Takaono Town, Izumi City, Kagoshima Prefecture) 【Inquiry】Secretariat of the City Executive Committee (#Tsuru Town Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Takaono Main Office) 【Phone】0996-82-1065 【Cars】 　Takaono Sports Ground Riverbed 　Twinkle Dome 　Car parking lot on the west side of the Kirameki Dome 　Health Management Center 　Fureai Park Car Parking Lot 　Water flow playground riverbed Car parking lot 　Takaono Elementary School Ground (March 20 only) 　Takaono Junior High School Ground (March 20 only) 　* Car at Takaono Elementary School and Takaono Junior High School please do not park your car on March 21. 　* Free shuttle bus will be operated only on the 20th. Please Use it when coming by Car. 【Details】https://r.goope.jp/srb-46-25/info/6146579...

Tokiwa mansaku, a flower that grows naturally in only three places in Japan From Shodai Mountain, popular for its many hiking routes and as a beginner-friendly mountain walk, we introduce tokiwa-mansaku (tokiwa mansaku). Tokiwa refers to evergreens that keep their leaves year-round. Mansaku is said to express the wish for a bountiful harvest. The three places in Japan where you can encounter wild tokiwa-mansaku flowers are said to be Shodai Mountain, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture Ise Jingu, Mie Prefecture Kamukura, Kosai City, Shizuoka Prefecture Typically they are in bloom from mid-April to late April each year. Spot information Shodai Mountain (Shodai-san) Shodai Mountain parking lot, restrooms available 2773-595 Kaba, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture 0968-63-1421 (Arao City Tourism and Cultural Exchange Division) #Shodai Mountain #Arao-jenic #tokiwa-mansaku #Kyushu mountains #Kyushu Nature Trail #low-mountain hike #mountain climbing #Shodai Mountain trail running #Arao City #Kumamoto

【Cotton Cafe】Relaxing, yarn spinning experience 🧶 Today, I would like to introduce ☺️✨ the "Cotton Cafe" held on the third Saturday of every month at the former Kuraoka junior high school "Kuraokakura" Feel free to Use the café only.☕💕 You can 😌 order delicious homemade cakes and drinks Today's cake was a cake with kumquat jam and a cake 🍰✨ with apple jam (I had a lot of it, but it was 🤤 insanely delicious) Everyone was having a relaxing time 🫶 while enjoying reading and chatting Of course! There is a fee, but you can 🧶✨ also experience yarn spinning Pick up cotton seeds with a "cotton gin" ↓ Use a tool called a "hand carder" like a large slicker brush to adjust the stream of fibers. ↓ When wrapped around a winding stick, a bundle of cotton called a "pony" is formed 😌☁️, which looks like a fluffy cocoon ↓ If you pull this out little by little with a tool called a spindle and twist it, you will get 😳👏 a magnificent thread as shown in the first photo It seems that 💡 you can adjust the thickness of the finished yarn by twisting the fiber and the amount of force You can make it thinner or thicker, or try to spin a single yarn with various thicknesses... There are There are fun of spinning your favorite yarn If 🤗✨ you are interested, please try 💪 it When you visit Cotton Cafe, you don't need to make a reservation or anything, so 👌 please feel free to stop by and enjoy 😌🌿 your own time 【Date & Time】3rd Saturday 13:00~15:00 【Place】Kuraoka Kurara (Staff Room) 〒882-1201 5929 Kuraoka, Gokase-cho, Nishiusuki-gun, Miyazaki Prefecture 【Reservation】Not required 【Fee】Yarn spinning experience 1,500 yen, cotton (with seeds) 400 yen

Enjoyable even on rainy days! Spots in Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture Arao City Library Address : 〒864-0033 1-1-1 Midorigaoka, Arao, Kumamoto Prefecture Opening hours : 10:00–20:00 Closed : Last day of every month (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays) Admission : Free Phone : 0968-57-7747 Designed with the image of a "Tidal Flat Library," the interior features several zones. There is a room where children can take off their shoes and enjoy picture books at ease, and a children’s restroom with a nursing room, so families with small children can relax and use the facilities comfortably. Manda Pit Station Address : 〒864-0001 200-2 Haramanda, Arao, Kumamoto Prefecture Opening hours : 9:30–17:00 Closed : Mondays (the following weekday if Monday is a public holiday) Admission : Free (Manda Pit ruins require a fee) Phone : 0968-57-9155 This is an indoor exhibition facility located just before Manda Pit. In addition to dioramas and explanatory panels, a free VR experience is available. The 360-degree realistic images and sound let you feel as if you have descended underground. It’s a weatherproof attraction where you can learn about the history of Manda Pit. Marugoto Orao Product Center Address : 〒864-0001 169-22 Haramanda, Arao, Kumamoto Prefecture Opening hours : 11:00–16:30 Closed : Mondays (the following weekday if Monday is a public holiday) Admission : Free Phone : 0968-57-9960 This product center offers souvenirs such as local specialties and sake from Arao, the local pottery known as Shodai-yaki, and a tourism information corner introducing Arao’s gourmet spots and nearby sights. On sunny days, it’s pleasant to rest on the benches at the rooftop observation area. Arao Kids Dome Address : 〒864-0041 4186-19 Arao, Arao, Kumamoto Prefecture (Inside Arao General Cultural Center) Opening hours : Sessions last 2 hours each Session 1 9:00–11:00 Session 2 12:30–14:30 Session 3 15:00–17:00 Closed : Tuesdays (the following day if Tuesday is a public holiday) Admission : 700 yen for junior high school students and older 300 yen for ages 3 up to junior high school students Free for children under 2 *Group discounts available for 20 or more people Phone : 0968-66-4111 This indoor experiential digital art exhibit is produced by the internationally popular teamLab. Children can easily join by coloring pictures that then come to life on the walls and floors. Though sessions are time-limited, it’s an immersive and joyful space that kids will love.

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

❄️ "Winter Gokase 2025" Voting Now Open ❄️【Until Sunday, March 16, 2025!】 Thank you all for entering "Winter Gokase 2025"! We have conducted a careful first-round selection by the tourism association staff and chosen ten entries from all submissions.🙏✨ From these ten entries, we will ask everyone to vote to decide the prize winners.🤩👏 Among those who vote, ten people will be randomly selected to receive specialty products from Gokase Town as a gift.🎁💫 We appreciate your participation.🙇‍♀️ How to vote is explained below.💡 [Voting period: Until Sunday, March 16, 2025] ⚠️ Voting is limited to one method per person and one vote per account or individual. <To vote via Instagram> https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... ・Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account. ・From the posts marked with the hashtag "#Winter Gokase 2025 Vote," choose one of the ten featured entries and comment the photo number in that post's comment section.✍ ⚠️ If you are not following the account, message exchanges may be unreliable and you will be excluded from the gift drawing. Please be aware. <To vote via Facebook> https://www.facebook.com/gokase.kanko/?locale=ja_JP... ・Choose one of the ten featured entries in this post and comment the photo number. ・Voting is limited to one vote per account. ⚠️ If you win the gift drawing, we will contact you via Facebook Messenger. If there is no reply within two weeks, the prize will be forfeited. <To vote via the website> ・Go to the "Winter Gokase 2025 Vote" page from the Gokase Tourism Association website's news topics (https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1994.html...） ・Click the URL on the "Winter Gokase 2025 Vote" page to open the voting form. ・Enter your email address. ・Choose one of the ten entries, check the box for that entry, and submit your response. ⚠️ If you do not enter an email address, you will be excluded from the gift drawing. Please be sure to view the original posts by the applicants before voting.🤗 1. @yamabico_san (photo 2) 2. @gokase_entertainment (photo 3) 3. @photo_ay_umi (photo 4) 4. @mgm_1228 (photo 5) 5. @eco9syu_sekiryo (photo 6) 6. @goto0619 (photo 7) 7. @fowafuwarin5 (photo 8) 8. @thusandleavis (photo 9) 9. @mas8787a (photo 10) 10. @photo_ay_umi (photo 11) We look forward to receiving many votes from everyone 🥰

🎿 Ski Resort Final Event 🏂 Sunday, March 9 was the last day of operations for Gokase Highland Ski Resort ❄️ Under a clear sky, a big prize drawing took place from 11:00 AM 🎁 Cheers erupted each time the winning numbers for lavish prizes were announced, and the drawing ended in great excitement 😆✨ After the drawing, visitors immediately enjoyed the last runs of the season on the slopes 🎿 Gokase Highland Ski Resort, revived this season ❄️ Thanks to everyone, we were able to operate safely through today 😊 Thank you very much 🥰 We look forward to seeing you again next season!!

Inochi no Hi Project in Gokase Town On Saturday, March 8, I visited the "Inochi no Hi Project in Gokase Town" held at the Gokase Town Welfare Center 🤗 Although the event took a four-year pause during the COVID-19 pandemic, it has continued since the year after the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake 😌 The beautiful event invited people to remember those affected by earthquakes and other disasters across Japan, to keep those memories alive, and to cherish life ✨ A donation box to raise funds for disaster recovery was placed at the venue, and visitors kindly contributed what they could ☺️ There were stalls selling tasty snacks and cute crafts, and the venue was lively 🥳 On stage, hosted by members of the organizing G Ongakutai, a full program of singing and dancing entertained the audience 🤩✨ Many songs in the lineup carried messages for disaster-hit areas, creating a program unique to a charity event 😌👏 The finale featured everyone joining in to sing "Hana wa Saku" together 🎶 At the end of the event, children lit wax balls in a lighting ceremony, and wrapped in gentle light, all attendees observed a moment of silence. May the thoughts from Gokase Town reach those in the disaster-affected areas…🙏

[❄️ Introducing photos submitted to Winter Gokase 2025 — Final installment ❄️] The Gokase Tourism Association held the “#Winter Gokase 2025” photo event on its Instagram account through February 28. This is the final showcase of the entries we received.🥹✨ @fowafuwarin5 @mas8787a @mgm_1228 (in no particular order) Making its long-awaited debut is Unoko Falls✨ These lovely photos capture the ski area where snow still lingers and the surrounding great outdoors.👏 Thank you all for so many submissions.😭 It was a harsh winter, but many of the winter photos felt warm and heartening.😊☀️

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Video—nice to meet you! This is the Morotsuka Village Tourism Association. We will now share plenty of reasons to fall in love with Morotsuka Village in northern Miyazaki Prefecture. First, let us introduce Morotsuka Village. ◆◇◆About Morotsuka Village, Miyazaki Prefecture◆◇◆ Morotsuka Village, Miyazaki Prefecture, sits nearly in the center of the Kyushu Central Mountain Range. About 90% of the village area is forest. There is almost no flat land; 84 small settlements dot the mountain slopes. Under the slogan of building a forestry-centered village, Morotsuka has promoted village development by protecting mountains, creating forests, and living in harmony with nature while benefiting from the forest. This is a village that lives with the forest, thinking not only about themselves but also about one another and not only about the present but about children and grandchildren. ◆◇◆Access◆◇◆ * About two hours by car from Kumamoto Airport * About two hours by car from Miyazaki Airport * From Miyazaki Airport take the train to JR Hyuga City Station (limited express about 65 minutes), then a route bus runs from Hyuga City Station to Morotsuka Village. If you use train and route bus, take the JR Nippo Main Line to JR Hyuga City Station, then a Miyazaki Kotsu route bus to Morotsuka village center, "Morotsuka," which takes about 90 minutes. * Please board a bus bound for "Kamishiiba" or "Tsukahara." (For route bus details, check the Miyazaki Kotsu website.) ※For current traffic restrictions, please check the Morotsuka Navi Website. ◆◇◆Tourist Spots in Morotsuka Village, Miyazaki Prefecture◆◇◆ ■Ecomuseum Morotsuka Shiitake Hall 21 This facility houses the Morotsuka Village Tourism Association office and Restaurant Donkotei. It used to be a place to learn about shiitake, but it has been renovated as a tourist information and community space. Across the Hotaru Bridge, on the opposite bank, stands the main statue of Kunugi Jizo carved from a sawtooth oak more than 100 years old. You can walk down to the river to enjoy a boxed lunch or play in the clear stream. ◇◆◇Accommodations in Morotsuka Village, Miyazaki Prefecture◇◆◇ ■Tenku no Mori Ikenokubo Green Park Perched around 800 meters above sea level in nature-rich Morotsuka, Tenku no Mori Ikenokubo Green Park offers log houses and a campsite. From the Hyuga direction the road is a single lane each way, so drivers who are not used to mountain roads can still feel at ease. The park features an athletic course, grass skiing, and putter golf, so families with young children can enjoy themselves together. A scenic cross-country course nearby makes for a pleasant, leisurely walk amid nature. The popular Akimasa Observatory, known for its views, is about a five-minute drive. We recommend rising early to watch the sunrise; with luck you may see a sea of clouds. Spring bursts with flowers, summer brings lush greenery and cool highland air, autumn ignites in brilliant foliage, and winter offers quiet days with occasional snow flurries. It’s a place to savor the changing seasons and relax in nature. ■Morotsukayama Mountain Stream Village One of the village’s two campgrounds is Morotsukayama Mountain Stream Village. Morotsukayama, one of Kyushu’s 100 famous mountains, towers here amid rich nature. Nearby is a river park next to a water-rich gorge, where you can enjoy river play and fishing in summer (fishing requires a permit). ■Forest Folk House Yamashigi Forest The Forest Folk House consists of two historic houses: "Shitashigi," built in the Taisho era, and "Nakashigi," built in the Meiji era. You reach them by climbing a winding mountain road, yet these homes once served as a transportation hub before roads and cars existed. Today they serve as an experiential exchange facility where city visitors and mountain residents deepen ties through farm work. Perched high as if touching the sky, the site preserves nostalgic scenes such as an irori hearth, a goemon bath, and a wood-fired stove. ■Forest Folk House Series These traditional houses let you fully enjoy the breath of nature. Surrounded by mountains, with the warmth of wood, the scent of earth, and a communal irori hearth, Morotsuka’s forest folk houses offer a relaxed pace and a restful place to experience human–nature coexistence. [List of folk houses] ・Yamashigi Forest ・Heida no Sato ・Sakura no Tsubone ・Yoshiya ◇◆◇Local Specialties of Morotsuka Village, Miyazaki Prefecture◇◆◇ ■Shiitake Shiitake cultivated using 100% log-grown mushrooms from rich forests certified as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage. Morotsuka Village proudly offers these flavorful, aromatic log-grown shiitake—please savor them. ■Mori no Hyakkamitsu (Forest Wildflower Honey) This honey comes from Japanese honeybees cherished by Morotsuka’s honey hunters. Natural beekeeping in the mountains draws nectar from a wide range of flowers. The honey the bees diligently collect—called "mori no hyakkamitsu" or wildflower honey—is highly nutritious with a rich taste and aroma. A single bee produces only about a spoonful of honey in its lifetime, making it very precious. ■Yomogi Dango (Mugwort Rice Dumplings) Fresh yomogi gathered from the mountains, nurtured by clean air and water, are made into yomogi dango using traditional methods. These treats are a countryside-only luxury, full of yomogi fragrance and filled with expertly kneaded sweet bean paste. ■Mountain-Processed Foods Women’s associations active across the scattered mountain settlements prepare goods in local workrooms every day. They transform mountain-harvested ingredients into the village’s delicious products—miso, yuzu pepper, konnyaku, dressings, and more. We will continue to share the charms of nature-rich Morotsuka Village—stay tuned!

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/...

🏯✨ Yurukyara of Izumi City "Tsuru no Shin" ✨🐦 Do you know Izumi City's official character "Tsuru no Shin"? 👀 The other day, he appeared on TV, became a hot topic in some circles, and became a little more well-known (?). I did ✨ A character born in Izumi City, the destination of No.1 in Japan! 🦢⚔️ Tsurunoshin plays a major role 💨 every day to convey the charm of Izumi City I appear at Events, promote Izumi City, and do my best 💪🔥 to let everyone know about Izumi If you see one, please call out 📢😊 "Tsuru no shin!" You are also welcome to take pictures with us 📸✨

Plum Blossom Update – Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum as of March 10 The Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum, located in Asaji Town, Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu, sits within a park where many plum trees are planted. Overall, the blossoms have progressed and are now at their best viewing stage. They are blooming beautifully, so this week should be a great time to visit. Location: Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum (1587-11 Ikeda, Asaji Town, Bungo Ono City) Parking: Available (free) Opening hours: 10:00–17:00 Closed: Mondays (the following day if Monday is a public holiday) The Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum will be temporarily closed from March 17 to March 28, 2025, but the park remains open for walking. ■■■ Access to central Bungo Ono City ■■■ From JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture: about a 3-hour drive From JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture: about a 2-hour drive From JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture: about a 1 hour 20 minute drive From JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture: about a 1 hour 20 minute drive ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■ https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250312asakurahumiokinenkan/...

Cycling with views of the Ariake Sea! Why not take a slow, leisurely tour of the town? Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering familiar sights, new discoveries in everyday scenery can enrich your life. Feel the Ariake Sea breeze as you cycle and take in Arao Tidal Flats in Kumamoto Prefecture, Mt. Unzen in Nagasaki Prefecture, MtTaradake in Saga Prefecture, and the giant cranes standing at the shipyard in Nagasu. You can visit Nekodaimyojin (Nekomiya), a smiling seaside bakery, a secluded adult café perfect for long conversations, and a soba café. If you extend your ride to Yotsuyama Shrine, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Ariake Sea from the hilltop. Rental bicycle locations ◆ Arao Tidal Flats Waterfowl & Wetland Center: 20-2 Kuramitsu, Arao City ※ Closed on Mondays and during the New Year holidays (December 29–January 3). If Monday is a holiday, the next open day will be observed. 0968-57-7444 ramsar@city.arao.lg.jp https://www.city.arao.lg.jp/kurashi/shisetsu/higata/... ◆ Kingyo to Koi no Sato Hiroba: 3150 Nagasu, Tamana District ※ Closed during the New Year holidays (December 28–January 3) Rental period 3 hours Lending hours 9:00–16:00 (reception until 15:00) ※ Except on days when the handling facilities are closed Eligible users High school students and older Persons whose safety is not impaired for bicycle use Application procedure Present a document that verifies your name and address, such as a driver’s license, health insurance card, or student ID, and complete the rental application form with the required information. Return location Return to the facility where you completed the rental procedures. Bad weather Rentals may be suspended in bad weather. Transfer and subletting You may not transfer or sublet the rental bicycle to another person. Helmets Wearing a helmet is requested when using the rental bicycle. Helmets are also available for loan. #Rental bicycle #Ariake Sea #Arao Tidal Flats Waterfowl & Wetland Center #Kingyo to Koi no Sato Hiroba #Cycling https://www.city.arao.lg.j... p/kurashi/shisetsu/higata/ https://www.city.arao.lg.jp/kurashi/shisetsu/higata/...

A new Aratama Flower Tour map is now available. A leaflet introducing spots to enjoy seasonal flowers and autumn leaves in the Arao–Tamana area of Kumamoto Prefecture (commonly called the “Aratama region”)—covering two cities and four towns: Arao City, Tamana City, Gyokuto Town, Nagomi Town, Nankan Town, and Nagasu Town—is now ready! There are many places to enjoy seasonal flowers 🌸 and autumn foliage 🍁! Why not visit the Aratama region to enjoy its sightseeing spots while feeling the changing seasons? The leaflet is distributed by the Tamana Regional Promotion Bureau of Kumamoto Prefecture and the two cities and four towns of the Aratama region. For details, see the Kumamoto Prefecture website (https://www.pref.kumamoto.jp/soshiki/174/201934.html)....

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.

Plum Bloom Report — Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum as of March 6 The Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum in Asaji Town, Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu Many plum trees are planted throughout the park. Overall, the blossoms are progressing and looking beautiful. We will report on the blooming status as it develops. Location: Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum (1587-11 Ikeda, Asaji Town, Bungo Ono City) Parking: Available (free) Opening hours: 10:00–17:00 Closed: Mondays (if a public holiday falls on Monday, closed the following day) The museum will be temporarily closed from March 17 to March 28, 2025, but the park’s plum trees will still be viewable. ■■■ Access to central Bungo Ono City ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■ https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250306asakurahumio/...

The theme park with the most attractions in Japan Greenland, one of the largest amusement parks in western Japan with a grounds area of 550,000 square meters Beyond roller coasters and thrill rides, more than 70 varied attractions include shooting games and haunted houses! Don’t miss the limited-time events, fireworks displays, and popular character shows! Two new attractions opened at Greenland in spring 2025✨ Enjoy a full day at Greenland. Greenland Midorigaoka, Arao City, Kumamoto 864-0011 TEL: 0968-66-1112

HANABI Festival at Greenland!! ＼This spring’s HANABI Festival is back／ Enjoy fireworks lighting up the spring night sky✨ Of course, the attractions will run at full operation until 8:00 PM!! * Please note that some areas will be off-limits during the fireworks display. * Viewing is free (park admission required separately) Date: Saturday, March 29 * In case of severe weather, the event will be postponed to Sunday, March 30. Time: Fireworks start at 7:30 PM Opening hours: 9:30 AM–8:00 PM Recommended viewing spot: Pond Front Plaza For guests arriving by car If you come by car, please cooperate by refraining from parking on the street or leaving your vehicle in nearby facilities without permission. Greenland Midorigaoka, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture 864-0011 TEL: 0968-66-1112

Coal Mine Train Photo Exhibition 2025 Now Open! We are exhibiting photographs that capture the many faces of coal mine trains. Please come and visit! ◆Dates: Sunday, March 2, 2025 – Sunday, March 30, 2025 ◆Hours: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM ※Closed: Every Monday (closed the following Tuesday if Monday is a public holiday) ◆Venue: Manda Coal Mine Museum, 213 Hara Manda, Arao City ◆Contact: Manda Pit Station, 200-2 Hara Manda, Arao City ☏0968-57-9155 Organizer: Manda Coal Mine Museum Co-organizer: NPO Coal Mine Train Preservation Society

Recommended for outings! Introducing Arao’s sightseeing spots! Discover Arao’s top spots! Why not come visit Arao? Greenland Kyushu’s largest and most famous amusement park! It hosts a variety of events and fireworks festivals!! A new attraction opens in March 2025. Check the official website for details Miike Coal Mine Manda Pit This former coal mine, which supported Japan’s Industrial Revolution, is also listed as a World Cultural Heritage site. The sturdy red-brick buildings and the machines and equipment used at the time have been preserved, letting you feel the era when the mines prospered. There is also a Manda Pit VR viewing corner! Arao Tidal Flats Waterfowl & Wetland Center This facility promotes the charms of the Arao Tidal Flats, designated a Ramsar Wetland, through the creatures of the mudflats. A tank reproducing the mudflat lets you observe mudflat creatures such as mudskippers, and there are displays introducing waterfowl with panels, a kids’ corner, and an observation area. Arao Tidal Flats From the Arao Tidal Flats you can even see Mt. Unzen across the Ariake Sea. You can spot a variety of marine life and migratory birds resting their wings. The sunset sinking and dyeing the sky and sea is also a spectacular sight. Birthplace of the Miyazaki Brothers / Miyazaki Brothers Museum The museum clearly exhibits the achievements and the exchanges between the four brothers—Hachiro Miyazaki, Toten, and others—who devoted themselves to the dawn of modern Asia, and Sun Yat‑sen, the father of the Chinese revolution. The morning drama series Hanako and Anne featured characters modeled on Toten’s son Ryusuke Miyazaki and his wife Yanagiwara Byakuren, which became a topic of conversation. Kiln tours including Ojiro ware In Arao City, various kilns produce works, including Ojiro ware with a history of over 400 years. Why not go out and look for a favorite piece of pottery? #Sightseeing spots #Greenland #Arao Tidal Flats Waterfowl & Wetland Center #Ojiro ware #Arao Tidal Flats #Birthplace of the Miyazaki Brothers #Arao #arao #Kumamoto Prefecture #Kumamoto #Kumamoto sightseeing #kumamoto #Kumamoto #Kyushu #kyusyu #Sightseeing #information #Manda Pit #manda ko #World Heritage #Ariake Sea #tidal flats #marugoto arao #Tamana #Omuta

📢The 9th of March! Astro Arm! DASH！！ Izumi City ✨ 📃 Project name: DASH Local PR Division ~Kumamoto-Kagoshima Hisatsu Orenji Railway~ 📺 Broadcast date and time: Sunday, March 9, 2025 (Reiwa 7) from 7 p.m. In order to liven up the local railway, we will use the specialties collected in each place to create the program's Original Ekiben. This time, the Hisatsu Orenji Railway will be the stage, and while touring between Yatsushiro Station ~ Satsumagawanai Station, we will introduce the specialties of each region and the charm of Sightseeing spots. What kind of charm of Izumi City will it broadcasting!? What kind of specialties do you get? And what kind of Ekiben will be created, which is full of charm along the Orenji Railway!? If you are interested, please watch the 😊 program

Tulip Festival Dates Announced! The 33rd Ogata Tulip Festa 2025 The dates and times for the 2025 Tulip Festa have been set. This year, 200,000 bulbs across 158 tulip varieties and two types of rapeseed flowers will bloom around Harajiri Falls. We will share detailed event information as soon as it becomes available. Date and Time Friday, April 4, 2025 – Sunday, April 13, 2025 Location Around Harajiri Falls (Ogata, Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture) Note: On Saturdays and Sundays during the event period, the Roadside Station Harajiri Falls parking lot will not be available. Shuttle buses will operate from temporary parking areas. Event Inquiries Tulip Festa Executive Committee Office Phone: 0974-42-2111 Access to Central Bungo Ono 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 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ########## Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Kyushu, Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture ##########

Plum Bloom Report — Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum as of February 27 The Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum (Asakura Fumio Kinenkan) sits in Asochi Town, Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture. Many plum trees are planted throughout the park. Most buds remain closed, so it felt about 10% in bloom. We will update the flowering status as it progresses. Location: Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum (1587-11 Ikeda, Asochi Town, Bungo Ono City) Parking: Available (free) Opening hours: 10:00–17:00 Closed: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a public holiday) ■■■ Access to central Bungo Ono City ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■