Discover the charms of Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture! Arao City, located in northern Kumamoto Prefecture on the border with Fukuoka Prefecture, is a captivating destination with the World Cultural Heritage site Manda Pit, beautiful nature, and leisure spots. Through Cool Japan videos, we will bring you plenty of information on Arao City’s sightseeing, gourmet food, and events! Stay tuned! ■■■Sightseeing spots in Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture■■■ Arao offers many places to enjoy history, nature, and leisure. Be sure to visit. ◇Manda Pit (Manda-kō) This coal mine site flourished from the Meiji era through the Showa era and is part of the World Cultural Heritage “Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution.” With brick winding engine rooms and massive steel headframes, you can feel the power and history of the mines. ◇Greenland One of Kyushu’s largest amusement parks, Greenland features more than 70 attractions. It’s a top leisure spot where families and friends can spend the whole day. Fireworks are held several times a year, drawing large crowds. ◇Arao Tidal Flats (Arao Higata) This Ramsar-listed tidal flat is a precious habitat visited by many migratory birds. It’s perfect for birdwatching and leisurely walks. ◇Yotsuyama Shrine Yotsuyama Shrine has watched over Arao’s history and remains beloved by the local community. Many worshippers still visit; a grand torii welcomes visitors to a peaceful shrine atmosphere. ■■■Local specialties and gourmet food of Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture■■■ Arao is full of local culinary delights to savor! ◇Arao Pears Known nationwide for their large size and rich sweetness, Arao pears offer a juicy, crisp texture. The new summer variety, Arao nashi, has attracted attention as a summer fruit. ◇Melon Bread Arao boasts many melon bread shops, including Fukuyama’s Melon Bread and Mankodo’s Melon Bread. ◇Kosen Dago A giant okonomiyaki exceeding 30 cm in diameter, this local favorite is loved by residents and tourists for its size and flavor. ◇Ojiro ware Ojiro ware is a representative Kyushu pottery fired for about 400 years on the northern slopes of Mount Odai. Its glazes blend deep indigo and blue with white slip, earning high artistic praise. ◇Arao Olive Olive cultivation is thriving, and locally produced olive oil is often used as a gift. ■■■Events in Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture■■■ Arao hosts enjoyable events throughout the seasons! ◇Arao Night Market A summer festival held at Manda Pit, the night market gathers many gourmet food trucks and attracts large crowds each year. ◇Nobaru Hachimangu Annual Festival (Nobarasan) Affectionately called “Nobarasan” by locals, this festival preserves a traditional performance known as furyu that has been passed down orally for over 770 years. Furyu is designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, and in 2022 the furyu dance was inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. ◇Yotsuyama Shrine Annual Festival (Kokunzosan) Local elementary and junior high school students perform miko dances such as Urayasu no Mai and Toyosakae no Mai. Climb the 311 steps that lead to the shrine to offer prayers and receive lucky coins, and enjoy the many stalls lining the path to Yotsuyama Shrine. ◇Majaku Fishing Tournament A signature Arao event, this unique tournament involves catching majaku (ghost shrimp) on the tidal flats—an authentic local experience. ◇Manda Pit Spring Festa A spring event held at Manda Pit featuring a variety of attractions. It’s popular with families and visitors. ■■■Hot springs and accommodation in Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture■■■ Arao also offers relaxing hot springs and a range of accommodations. ◇Accommodation in Arao City The city has ample hotels that are convenient for both sightseeing and business. Some properties feature hot springs, perfect for unwinding after a day of travel. We will continue to share Arao City’s attractions through Cool Japan videos! Come and enjoy Arao’s history, nature, and gourmet food! #Kumamoto Prefecture #Arao City #Kumamoto tourism #World Cultural Heritage #Manda Pit #Greenland #Arao pears #Melon bread #coal mine

【❄️Introducing Photos Submitted for Winter Gokase 2025 — Part 6❄️】 Although days have warmed noticeably, mornings and evenings remain bitterly cold in Gokase Town 🥶 We’re grateful that entries for the “#Winter Gokase 2025” campaign on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram have been accumulating, so here are some of the submissions 🙌✨ @donguri223103 @xitiannaiyang4 @goto0619 @irnoarkoa @yamabico_san @satoshi.misaki @thusandleavis @fowafuwarin5 (in no particular order) While many winter scenes come from the Kuraoka area, this time we received a snow photo of Josenji Temple in the Sanko area as well 👏✨ Even within snowy landscapes, the lively atmosphere of the ski resort, the calm winter mood of Kuraoka, and the sacred, quiet presence of Josenji each have their own charm — they’re all wonderful ☺️💫 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- There’s only a short time left before this campaign closes ✨ Please feel free to enter with any small winter photo — we’d love to see your submissions 🤗🎶 How to enter (deadline: Friday, February 28, 2025) Follow Gokase Tourism Association on Instagram (@gokase_kanko) and post with the hashtags “#Winter Gokase 2025” and “#photo location (for example: #Unoko Falls)” 📸 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... ※Snow accumulation and icy roads can be dangerous. Please prioritize safety and take care to avoid accidents when photographing⚠️

Mystery-Solving Event at Gion Shrine On Saturday, February 22, a mystery-solving event took place at Gion Shrine in the Kuraoka district 👏 The event was titled “Gion Shrine Real Mystery: ‘As the Gods Say’” 💡 Local high school students from Gokase Secondary School led the planning, collaborating with local company Gokase Entertainment and the Kuraoka Lovers Women’s Group to prepare the event 😳✨ Participants of all ages gathered, and the shrine grounds rang with lively voices 🤗🎶 The puzzles were quite difficult until a spark of insight or a discovery occurred… I tried hard to solve them but couldn’t in the end 🤣 I had to borrow the children’s wisdom, haha As we solved the puzzles, we learned the correct way to worship at Gion Shrine 😯💡 I had no idea about those customs, so the many new discoveries were great fun 🤩 After finishing the puzzles, participants faced a two-part showdown with the gods played by Gokase Secondary School students ⚔️ The first part, “Sengoku Gokase Town,” was a game in which players spent their held points to approach the god; the winner was the one who first knocked the bead off the god’s shoulder with a sword 💪 In the second part, the winning prize from part one, a rope, was formed into a circle on the ground as a ring, and contestants challenged the god in a hand-push sumo match 👐 Both games excited adults and children alike, and smiles filled the event from start to finish 😆 After completing all stages, participants received a “Mystery Completion Certificate,” but looking closely revealed the certificates came in different colors…🤔? It turned out the hand-push sumo in part two mirrored the ceremonial sumo offered to entertain the gods during the Morimaki ritual held at Gion Shrine. Since the tradition holds that “the one who loses to the god is correct,” the completion certificates of those who lost the hand-push sumo gleamed in gold🤣 You could feel the students’ attention to detail throughout the setting, and it was wonderful 🥹✨ At the end, participants and students took a commemorative photo together, and warm tea provided by Yukihoshien was served as a participation prize, bringing the lively, friendly event to a close 😌👏 Seeing Gokase Town come alive through events created by students, local businesses, and community groups working together is truly moving 🥹 We hope the whole town continues to join forces to keep Gokase Town thriving ✨

This year, too, we were able to have a fun Setsubun for mamemaki (bean throwing)! There are many wonderful events in Japan!

Speaking of events in Japan, Setsubun! This year, too, I chewed 😄 on the bean rolls and Eho-maki

It is the Karatsu Tourism Association that guides sightseeing in Karatsu City, located in the northern part of Saga Prefecture. This time, COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will Broadcasting Tourist Information of Karatsu City. We will broadcast various information such as Specialties, Famous landmarks, and Events, so please follow us.

Shirataki in Winter Look at this 😳! Thanks to the recent cold snap, Shirataki has been cloaked in snow and ice, creating a stunning sight ❄️✨ Pale blue-tinted pillars of snow and ice line up into a breathtaking scene 👏 If possible, we’d love for you to see it with your own eyes! …That said, the path to Shirataki is coated in snow and ice and is extremely dangerous ⚠️ This time, specially trained staff from the tourism association risked their lives to climb up, so please enjoy the photos instead… 🙏🙏🙏 The trail to Shirataki is already hazardous, so we ask for your understanding 😭 Still, nature’s artistry is truly beautiful… I’d grown tired of all the snow, but it turns out it’s not all bad ✨ Let’s stay positive and enjoy ourselves 💪❤️‍🔥

Kyushu, Oita Prefecture, Bungo Ono City On February 8, 2025, the “Bungo Ono Dondo-yaki” was held in Ono Town, Bungo Ono City. A roughly 20-meter-high dondo was decorated with New Year pine ornaments and shimenawa brought by attendees. After the Shinto rites, stage events such as kagura and drum performances entertained a large crowd. After fireworks, the organizing committee and local junior high students prayed for good health and safety before igniting the dondo. The crackling sound and the towering blaze of the dondo were truly spectacular. ■■■ 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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing, gourmet spots, and accommodations in Bungo Ono City ⬇ Bungo Ono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. The Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website can be accessed from the profile link. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Gokase Specialty Center Snow Play The special cold snap that began this Tuesday has left the Gokase Specialty Center covered in snow☃️ Is everyone safe and free from injury or accidents?💦 To lift the spirits of customers who braved these harsh roads to visit the shop, the staff at the Gokase Specialty Center made a Totoro snowman to bring a little brightness and warmth 🥰👏 It’s big and adorable😳✨ While it was being made, children who had come in for lunch kept asking, “Is Totoro finished yet!?” as they eagerly waited🤣💕 Please stop by and take a commemorative photo when you visit📸！ There are also impressive icicles hanging from the shop eaves😮💡They glittered beautifully as they caught the light✨ The tips are sharp, so be careful—they could be dangerous if they fall on your head⚠️ With persistent bad weather making movement difficult, it might be nice to take a moment to enjoy the snow like a child again🤭 Our association’s Instagram photo campaign “Winter in Gokase 2025” is still accepting entries📸✨ Please consider applying during this opportunity🤗 ※See the pinned post on our Instagram profile page for details🙏 https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... Everyone, please stay safe and stay alert for the rest of the day🙇‍♀️

\The second Sunday of every month "Izumi Foothills Experience Day"/ The Izumi City Tourism Specialty Products Association offers regular experience programs on the second Sunday of every month as "Izumi Foothills Experience Day"! At Samurai residences at the foot of Izumi, which is the Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings of the country, you can enjoy the experience of dressing in a kimono yukata and armor, and Boarding to the Izumi Sightseeing Cow Car. The next meeting will be held on Sunday, February 9, 2025. To make a reservation, please Phone the Izumi City Tourism Specialty Products Association listed below. * You can experience it outside of the above schedule, so please contact the Izumi City Tourism Specialty Products Association as soon as possible. Why don't you enjoy a hands-on program with your family and friends at the Samurai residences at the foot of Izumi? We look forward to receiving your application! —————————— ■Application (Izumi City Tourism Specialty Products Association) Phone number: 0996-79-3030 【Held in】2nd Sunday of every month (next time is January 12) 【Held in】10:00~16:00 (11:00~15:00 for sightseeing ox cars) Note: The following will be asked at the time of application. 　(1) Name 　(2) Contact information (Phone number) 　(3) Name of the desired experience program 　(4) Number of participants 　(5) Participation time 　* In the case of a kimono dressing experience, we will also ask you about your height https://www.izumi-navi.jp/events/post-2066/... —————————— #Izumi City, Kagoshima Prefecture #Kagoshima Prefecture #Izumi City #Kagoshima #Izumi #Izumi foothills #Saisho residence #Takezoe residence #Mihara residence #Samurai residences #Izumi Foothills Town Preservation Association #Izumi Sightseeing Cow Car Association #Ox Car #Izumi Navi #izuminavi #izumicity #izumi #kagoshima #South Treasure Chest Kagoshima #Kagosta Glamour #Experience Program

\ [Reception closed] Orenji Olle ×Hikari no Township Accommodation Plan released! ／ On Sunday, February 16, 2025, the Orle Fair "#Orenji Olle 2025" will be Held in at the Izumi Course of Kyushu Olle. Accommodation at an inn with a Hot Spring and a tour to Visiting the site of the cranes taking off early in the morning was on sale. ／ ✨ Due to popular demand, we have prepared an additional plan for accommodation in the special project "#Hikari no Township"! ✨ ＼ Aroma and warmth of the cottage in front of the abundant large. Enjoy a delicious chef's omakase dinner in a luxurious space surrounded by a starry sky on a moonlit night. * The application for participation in Olle's Traditional Japanese straw raincoat has been closed because the capacity has been reached. ★ Hikari no Township Home Page ★ https://hikarinosato-genkou.com// ★ Hikari no Township Instagram★ https://www.instagram.com/hikarino.sato/... ★ Details, Application, Inquiries Izumi City Tourism Specialty Products Association https://izumi-kankou.main.jp/portfolio/stayplan2024_plan9/...

\Hikoki Special Open to the public Aviation Class/ With the cooperation of #Japan Airlines Co., Ltd., which has a cooperation agreement with #Izumi City, we will be selling the "Waku Waku Stay Plan Special Project ~ Hikoki Special Open to the public / Aviation Class" plan. You can see the aircraft in front of you on the tarmac of the airports, which you cannot normally enter, and listen to valuable stories such as cockpit and in-flight guidance by active pilots and cabin attendants. This is a tour where "pair discount" is applied for 2 or more people, so please consider participating with 2 or more people. Of course, you are also welcome to participate alone! We are still accepting reservations, so please take this opportunity to apply! ▼ Exciting Stay Plan Special Project ~ Hikoki Special Open to the public / Aviation Class ~ Monday, February 24, 2025 Tour Details: https://izumi-kankou.main.jp/portfolio/stayplan2024_plan8/...

【❄️ Winter Gokase 2025 Photo Submissions — Part 5 ❄️】 Today we continue to showcase photos submitted to the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram event “#Winter Gokase 2025” 🙌✨ @photo_ay_umi Here is another photo taken at Gokase Highland Ski Resort ⛷️💫 The subject and photographer were perfectly in sync, producing images that look like scenes from a commercial—simply wonderful 🤗💕 Thank you for your submission 🙇‍♀️ ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gokase Town is covered in a snowy landscape this morning ☃️ The wind is howling and it’s really cold 😂 Road conditions are poor, so when you head out to shoot photos please use proper studless winter tires or chains and take care to stay safe and enjoy yourself without overdoing it 🙏 How to enter Follow the Gokase Tourism Association on Instagram (@gokase_kanko) and post with the hashtags “#Winter Gokase 2025” and “#location of the photo (e.g., #Unoko Waterfall)” 📸 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account→https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... ※There is a risk from snow accumulation and icy roads. When taking photos, secure your safety and take care to avoid accidents ⚠️

【❄️Introducing Photos Submitted to Winter Gokase 2025 — Part 4❄️】 Today we present photos submitted to the Winter Gokase 2025 contest, currently running on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account 🫡🎉 @_aymiii_photo @eco9syu_sekiryo @photo_ay_umi *Order is random* From Gokase Highland Ski Resort we received delightful, humorous shots and beautiful images that convey the joy of snow 😆🎶 Thank you for your submissions 😌💕 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gokase Town has seen a touch of snow again since yesterday ❄️ It’s cold and icy roads are worrying, so going out can be daunting, but we also welcome photos taken in your own yard — capture a lovely winter scene and feel free to submit it 🤗✨ <How to Enter> Follow the Gokase Tourism Association on Instagram (@gokase_kanko) and post with the hashtags “#Winter Gokase 2025” and “#Photo location (e.g., #Unoko Falls)” 📸 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account → https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... *There are risks such as heavy snow and icy roads. Please ensure safety and take care to avoid accidents while shooting⚠️

【❄️Winter Gokase 2025 Photo Contest — Featured Entries Vol. 3❄️】 This is the third installment of our series showcasing entries posted to the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram for the “#Winter Gokase 2025” contest.💡 We’re excited to share more photos today!😆👏 @yamabico_san @aiaiaiaiaiaiai77 @conne.hikariconect @gokase_entertainment ※In no particular order Many submissions captured the quiet atmosphere and beautiful snowy scenery.😌❄️ Thank you for your entries.👏 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- We’re delighted to see the number of entries steadily growing.😊✨ Thank you all so much for your continued support.🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️ With about one month left until the entry deadline, please feel free to photograph any winter scenes you love and submit them.🤗💕 How to enter Follow the Gokase Tourism Association on Instagram (@gokase_kanko) and post your photo with the hashtags “#Winter Gokase 2025” and “#photo location (for example: #Unoko Falls)”.📸 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account → https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... ※There may be hazards such as deep snow or icy roads. Please ensure your safety and take care to avoid accidents when photographing.⚠️

Kyushu, Oita Prefecture, Bungoono City event "PRE Junzo" held at Oita Station Plaza Ahead of Junzo, "PRE Junzo" will once again take place this year at Oita Station Plaza. This is a pre-event where you can sample Bungoono’s sake before the main Junzo event. Vendors will offer Bungoono sake and snacks that pair perfectly with it. This year’s program also features stage performances. Why not come to Oita Station Plaza and get a taste of Junzo? Date and Time Saturday, March 1, 2025, 3:00 PM–7:00 PM (last admission 6:30 PM) Location JR Oita Station Plaza Tasting of each brewery’s signature sake We will sell tasting tickets for 2,000 yen on site for up to 500 people. (One cup from each brewery, four cups total) Additional tasting tickets will be available for 500 yen per cup (available only to ticket holders). Stage Performances Taiko drumming, kagura and other performances from Bungoono City are scheduled to appear. Junzo Tickets for Sale We will sell tickets for the main Junzo event at the PRE Junzo venue. Ticket prices ■ Advance sale price: 2,000 yen (tax included) ■ Same-day price: 2,500 yen (tax included) A special zodiac-themed guinomi (sake cup) is also on sale ■ Single price: 880 yen (tax included) (Available for 500 yen to ticket holders) Buying the guinomi together with a Junzo ticket offers better value. Junzo Bus Tour Reservations Open If you prefer a relaxed route, consider the Oita departure and return bus tour. Event Inquiries Commerce and Tourism Division Tel: 0974-22-1117 Access to central Bungoono 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 ---------- On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing spots, food and accommodations in Bungoono City⬇✨ Bungo Ono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us 😊 You can find the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website link in our profile. ---------- For details about the main Junzo event, please check the link. https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20241225megurukura/...

Kyushu, Oita Prefecture, Bungo Ono City event [The 32nd Bungo Ono Dondo-yaki Festival] The 32nd Bungo Ono Dondo-yaki Festival will take place in Ono Town, Bungo Ono City. The sight of the roughly 20-meter-tall “dondo” built from bamboo rising up in flames is spectacular. Pray for good health and a prosperous year at the dondo-yaki. [Date and Time] Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 16:30 (held light rain or shine) [Location] Ono General Sports Park (Parking Lot No. 2), Bungo Ono City [Admission] Free [Parking] Available [Schedule] 16:30 – 17:00 Opening ceremony 17:00 – 17:30 Shinto ritual 17:30 – 19:00 Shonai Children’s Kagura (Yufu City) 19:00 – 19:40 Yufuin Genryu Taiko (Yufu City) 19:40 – 19:45 Ikushima Fireworks (Bungo Ono City) 19:45 – 20:00 Dondo fire-lighting ceremony 20:00 – Dondo ignition 21:00 – Closing ceremony ※Please bring New Year’s shimekazari decorations and omamori charms to the venue between 9:00 and 17:00 on the day of the event. We cannot accept items in advance. [Event Inquiries] Ono Town Dondo-yaki Executive Committee (Bungo Ono City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Youth Division, Ono Branch) Phone: 0974-34-2234 ■■■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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing spots, food, and accommodations in Bungo Ono City⬇ Bungo Ono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can find the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website link in our profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■ For details, please see the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website. https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250123dondoyaki/...

[❄️ Introducing Photos Submitted to Winter Gokase 2025 — Part 2 ❄️] Today we continue showcasing photos submitted to the Winter Gokase 2025 campaign, currently hosted on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account 🤩🎉 @moko.m This entry, like the others, captures everyday winter life in Gokase Town. Each warm photo seems to carry the cheerful voices of children, and viewing them brings joy 🥰✨ Thank you for your submission 👏 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- We have more submissions to share, so we’ll introduce them little by little 🤗 When submitting, a few people posted using the kanji “五ヶ瀬” for the title “Winter Gokase 2025.” We wondered if those were intended as entries, but please be careful when submitting in the future ⚠️ Use the hiragana “ごかせ”! The correct title is “Winter Gokase 2025” written as 「冬のGokase 2025」!! How to enter (Submission period — through February 28) Follow the Gokase Tourism Association on Instagram (@gokase_kanko), and post with the hashtags “#冬のごかせ2025” and a tag for the photo location (for example: #Unoko Falls) along with your photo 📸 ※Snow and icy roads can be hazardous. Ensure safety when shooting and take care to avoid accidents ⚠️

❄️ Introducing Photos Submitted to Winter Gokase 2025 — Part 1 ❄️ We are showcasing photos submitted to the Winter Gokase 2025 contest, currently running on the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account 🤩🎉 @goto0619 @thusandleavis *Order is not indicative of ranking* These shots capture everyday moments in wintertime Gokase Town with a nostalgic feel 😌✨ Thank you for your submissions!! ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Over the past few days, daytime temperatures in Gokase Town have often felt mild ☀️ But it is still winter! In the mornings frost has turned gardens completely white. Here are places that froze over. You can even see animal tracks in the remaining snow! Please feel free to share any simple winter discoveries with us in the same easygoing spirit — we look forward to your entries!!! How to Enter (Submission Period through February 28) Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account (@gokase_kanko) and post with the hashtags "Winter Gokase 2025" and the name of the shooting location (for example: Uno no Ko Falls) along with your photo 📸 ※Snow accumulation and icy roads can be dangerous. When taking photos, please ensure your safety and take care to avoid accidents ⚠️

Event information for Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu Bungo Ono City Stamp Rally Tour of Five Roadside Stations A stamp rally that takes you around the five roadside stations in Bungo Ono City will be held. Visit the five roadside stations and make purchases of 300 yen or more to collect stamps for a chance to win local specialties from the roadside stations. A total of 125 winners will be selected. Give it a try and aim for these wonderful prizes! Event period Saturday, January 18, 2025 – Sunday, March 2, 2025 How to apply Pick up the stamp rally flyer (stamp sheet) at each roadside station. You will receive one stamp for each purchase of 300 yen or more. Visit each roadside station to collect stamps. When you have stamps from all five stations, cut out the detachable section on the back, fill in the required information, and drop it into the box set up at each station. Participating locations Roadside Station Mie Roadside Station Kiyokawa Roadside Station Harajiri Falls Roadside Station Asaji Roadside Station Oono Prizes Prize A: Roadside station specialty set worth 5,000 yen — 30 winners Prize B: Roadside station specialty set worth 3,000 yen — 45 winners Prize C: Roadside station specialty set worth 2,000 yen — 50 winners Other notes If a prize cannot be delivered because the recipient is absent for an extended period after delivery, the prize will be forfeited. Winners will be notified by shipment of their prize. Shipments are scheduled for late March 2025. Inquiries Bungo Ono City Five Roadside Stations Stamp Rally Office (located in Roadside Station Asaji) Phone: 0974-64-1210 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 Instagram On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing spots, gourmet picks, and accommodations in Bungo Ono City. Bungo Ono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can access the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website from the profile link. For more details, please see the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website. https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250117mitinoeki/...

Shichizo Shochu Photo Contest Last year, the Minami Satsuma Shichizo Shochu Photo Contest 2024 was Held in held from August 16 to November 30, 2024 sponsored by the Nanazo Council for the Promotion of Minami Satsuma Local Shochu (Shichizo Council). Representative of each brewery gathered the other day and held a judging meeting! Thank you very much for your application There is a many! The theme is free. We received many entries based on Shichizo products, cuisine, and scenery, spending time with family and friends, the scenery of Minami Satsuma and shochu, etc.! Everyone has wonderful photos, and it's hard to put them down... It was talked about! The winners will receive a DM from the Shichizo Council! Fun for great prizes! @7kura373 #Uto Sake Brewery #Honbo Sake Brewery #Fukiage Shochu #Mansei Sake Brewery #Higashi Shuzo #Sakurai Shuzo #Rikasa of the Du clan #Shichizo Shochu #Minamisatsuma City #Minami Satsuma #Kagoshima #Minami Satsuma Nanazo Photocon #Minami Satsuma Shichizo Photocon 2024

KKB Hometown CM Grand Prize and Video Award 2024 "My hometown, both now and in the future" Hello! This is S from the Minamisatsuma City Tourism Association "Kiyatamonse" staff! The results of the Hometown CM and Video Awards 2024 held in November last year have been announced! The result is... Unfortunately, it was a 🥹 participation prize I was very frustrated and disappointed because I finished it with the cooperation of many people after several months of worrying, but I did my best! We received warm words from the Locals and had a valuable experience! I would be happy if you could take a look and give us your impressions! ☺️ I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. M for the model, the Digital Public Relations Division and the Commerce, Industry and Fisheries Division of the Minamisatsuma City Office (especially Mr. Digital T and Mr. U for their help), the Kasasa Museum of Art for gracious permission to shoot, everyone involved in the fishing port, Mr. M for the wonderful drone photography, and everyone involved! There is a really! You can also watch other award-winning works on the KKB Hometown CM and Video Awards 2024 Home page and YOUTUBE videos, so please take a look ✨ * Publication of videos and links cannot be added, so photos are Publication. For the actual commercial videos, we apologize for the inconvenience, but we would appreciate it if you could search for "KKB Hometown CM Award". #Minamisatsuma City Tourism Association #Kiyata Monse Minami Satsuma #Minamisatsuma City #Kagoshima #kagoshima #Hometown CM Grand Prize #Hometown CM Video Award

Welcome to Gokase Town in winter ✨ Answer our survey and get local specialties 💪 (Response deadline: Friday, February 28 ⚠️) A notice from Gokase Entertainment Co., Ltd. 💡 Right now, visitors to Gokase Town who complete a short survey will be entered into a drawing. Fifteen winners will receive local specialties from Gokase Town 🤩✨ This survey aims to make Gokase Town an even more attractive tourist destination, so we would greatly appreciate your cooperation 🤗 Here’s your chance to win a set of wine and kama-iri tea (pan-roasted tea) 💪❤️‍🔥 The response deadline is Friday, February 28 ⚠️ When you stop by Gokase Town, we look forward to your visit 🥺🙏

While thinking about Kanshin, we will walk around the superb view of the Minami Satsuma Kaido in early Spring. Jianzhen, the Chinese nobleman who brought Buddhist teachings and precepts to Japan, sailed six times to get to Japan and arrived at Minamisatsuma City Botsu, which was once called Japan Mitsu. Held in mainly in Botsu, it is a walking tournament named after Kazuhisa Kanshin. Thinking about the scenery that Kanshin stared at, we walk while enjoying the superb view of the Minami Satsuma Kaido in early Spring. Local people are full of warm and delicious hospitality. Basic Information Held in date: February 22 Held in time 8:00~Registration starts, Opening ceremony 8:45, Departure 9:00 Held in (1) Bozu Seascape Course Approx. 16km (Minamisatsuma City Bozu Gakuen Ground Start) (2) Oura Superb View Kamegaoka Course Approx. 12km (Oura Elderly Welfare Center Shiba Square start) Capacity (1) Bozu Seascape Course: First 600 people (2) Oura Superb View Kamegaoka Course First 500 people Application 2025 (Reiwa 7) January 15 9:00 ~ Reception starts 2025 (Reiwa 7) January 31 Deadline To apply, please visit the Minamisatsuma City Tourism Association Home page. * Early reception may end due to first-come, first-served basis. fee 1 don (900 ml) (20 years old and over) 3500 yen Adults and high school students: 1500 yen Junior high and elementary school students: 300 yen Contact us Minami Satsuma Kaido Kanshin Road Walking Executive Committee 0993-53-2111

【Ski Resort Photos】 Today in Gokase the sky is overcast☁️ and it’s been raining and snowing since morning, so it’s still cold🥶 By the way, Gokase Highland Ski Resort finally opened the Paradise Course for a 1,000 m run the other day⛷️✨ Unfortunately, only a 500 m run is available right now due to a lift malfunction, but repair work is underway, so please wait for its reopening 🥹🙏 I took some photos at the ski resort the other day, so I’ll share them here📸💫 The blue sky and pure white rime are incredibly beautiful😳 This season the ski resort’s conditions are excellent compared with usual years, so please come and visit Gokase Highland Ski Resort 🤗 Also, the Gokase Tourism Association is collecting winter photos of Gokase as “Winter in Gokase 2025” on its Instagram account❄️ Photos of the ski resort are welcome, and any snapshots of winter scenes are fine📸 For details, please see the pinned post on our profile🙏 We look forward to many submissions ✨

Gokase Highland Ski Resort I climbed up to Gokase Highland Ski Resort today to shoot some material📸❄️ At 7:00 this morning the temperature was a whopping -14°C🤣 It was such an odd kind of cold that it made me laugh🤷‍♀️ lol That said, the slopes were in perfect condition ⛷️✨ The wind was light and the snow was powdery and dry 🤩 Local junior high students were here today as part of their school activities, and they were happily enjoying skiing and snowboarding 🥰 The view of the ski area under the blue sky is truly beautiful 🥹✨ It feels like another world, and staring at it makes you feel drawn in…😳 You can see the distant mountains stretching far away, and the view from Gokase Highland Ski Resort is exceptional 👏❗ Tomorrow, Saturday, January 11th, at 10:00 the long-awaited Paradise Course 1,000 m run finally opens 🤩 Can’t wait 💪 The Gokase Tourism Association is currently running the "Winter Gokase 2025" campaign on their Instagram account and collecting winter photos from the area 🤗 There are prizes, so when you visit the ski resort or travel there, please take lots of winter photos within safe limits and enter the contest 🙏✨ For details, see the post pinned to the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram profile page 💡

[🍁 Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024 🍁 Results Announcement] Thank you for waiting‼️ Here are the results of “Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024” 🥳🎉 This time, the winners were chosen by votes from followers of the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account 👏✨ Thank you to everyone who voted 🙇‍♀️💕 Now, let’s announce the results👇👇👇 [🥇 Gold Prize] Unoko Falls Instagram: @san.shimako.1105 (second photo) [🥈 Silver Prize] Josenji Temple Instagram: @gokase_pan (third photo) [🥉 Bronze Prize] Shirataki Instagram: @niidome2110 (fourth photo) Unoko Falls, Josenji Temple, and Shirataki… these representative Gokase autumn-leaf spots each took home an award 👏❗ Each entry highlighted the beauty of the scenery and revealed expressions different from usual—truly wonderful work 🥹✨ Congratulations to all the winners㊗️🥳🎉 And to everyone who submitted entries, voted, and took part—thank you so much😭❤️‍🔥 The campaign is still ongoing as “Winter in Gokase 2025,” so please join us 🥰 We appreciate your participation 💫

Kyushu, Oita Prefecture’s Bungo Ono City event information ■■ Bungo Ono Megurukura 2025 On March 16, 2025, Bungo Ono Megurukura 2025 celebrates its event. Why not tour four sake breweries in Bungo Ono City and savor fine sake and Bungo Ono gourmet treats? Date and Time Sunday, March 16, 2025, 9:30 AM–3:30 PM Megurukura Tickets Now on Sale Advance sale price: 2,000 yen (tax included) Same-day price: 2,500 yen (tax included) Special zodiac-themed sake cup also on sale Single item price: 880 yen (tax included) (Ticket holders can buy one for 500 yen) Buying the sake cup together with a Megurukura ticket is a great deal. Ticket Sales Locations Hamajima Sake Brewery TEL 0974-42-2216 Kira Sake Brewery TEL 0974-42-2205 Muretsuru Sake Brewery TEL 0974-72-0101 Fujii Brewing TEL 0974-37-2016 Bungo Ono City Tourism Association TEL 0974-27-4215 Win a Prize by Lottery If you enter with a Megurukura ticket stamped by all four breweries, you will be entered into a prize drawing. How to apply: Fill in the required information on the application field on the back of your Megurukura ticket and put it in a designated collection box. Collection boxes are available at each brewery and at Mie-machi Station. Winners will be notified by shipping the prize. Shuttle Bus Information Shuttle buses will run on the day of Megurukura. You need a Megurukura ticket to board the shuttle bus. Shuttle buses running between JR Mie-machi Station and the venues operate at intervals of about 30–40 minutes. You may board or disembark at any venue. ※When boarding, please show your ticket to the staff. Inquiries about the Megurukura event Bungo Ono City Hall, Commerce and Tourism Division TEL 0974-22-1117 ■■ Bungo Ono Megurukura Bungo Ono City is home to two sake breweries and two shochu distilleries. Megurukura is the day when all four breweries in Bungo Ono City welcome visitors together. It’s a special day to enjoy delicious drinks and snacks while touring the breweries and taking in the scenery of Bungo Ono City. ■■■ 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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing, gourmet spots, and accommodations in Bungo Ono City ⬇ Bungo Ono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can access the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website from the profile link. ■■■■■■■■■■■■ For details, please see the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website. https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20241225megurukura/...

【Saitobaru Archaeological Museums】Exhibition III. Trinkets of Beauty and Rights ~Miyazaki's Kofun Tumulus Culture Reflected by Jade~ This is an announcement from the Saitobaru Archaeological Museums. From Saturday, January 18th, we will held in a special exhibition to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the opening of the museum, "History of Exchange of People, Things, and Hearts Across the Sea" as Exhibition III. Jewelry of beauty and power ~ Miyazaki's Kofun Tumulus culture ~ reflected by jade (tama) will be held. Since more than 10,000 years ago, "jade" has been a fascination to people. The "jade" of the Kofun period is not only beautiful in itself, but also a status symbol that shows the social status and role of the time by dressing it as an accessory, and it is also an item that shows "beauty" and "authority". In this exhibition, we will decipher the Scene of the formation and prosperity of society at that time hidden in the glittering world, the characteristics of Miyazaki's Kofun Tumulus culture, and the exchange of people, things, and hearts through the sea. ■ Duration 2025 (Reiwa 7) January 18 (Sat) ~ March 23 (Sun) ■Venue Miyazaki Prefecture Saitobaru Archaeological Museum Exhibition Room ■ Admission fee free ■ Inquiries Miyazaki Prefecture Saitobaru archaeological Museum 〒881-0005 Miyazaki Prefecture Nishi City Oaza Miyake Saitobaru Nishi 5670 TEL：0983-41-0041 FAX：0983-41-0051 Opening Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (Entry to the exhibition rooms until 17:00) Closed: Monday (the next day if it coincides with the national Holidays), the day after the national Holidays (excluding holidays) #Miyazaki Prefecture #West City #Saitobaru Kofun Tumulus #Japan Heritage #Saitobaru Archaeological Museums #勾玉 #Jade

Bungo Ono City in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. On January 3, 2025, the Ontake Kagura New Year performance took place at the Kagura Kaikan in Kiyokawamachi, Bungo Ono City. Many visitors came that day and enjoyed the Kagura dances.✨ The Ontake Kagura performed with impressive, vigorous dances. Many guests were captivated. ■■■ What is Ontake Kagura The Ontake Kagura passed down in Kiyokawamachi is said to have begun in 1449, at the same time as the founding of Ontake Shrine. It has been handed down for a long time, and Kagura in this tradition is performed in Oono, Naoiri, Ken Nan, and as far as the Aso region. In 2007 it was designated a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. ■■■ 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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing, gourmet spots, and accommodations in Bungo Ono City⬇ Bungo Ono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can find the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website linked from our profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■