Photographed on July 9, 2026. These are the matchmaking wind chimes at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine.

Asaji Summer Festival ❚ Held on August 15, 2026 The "54th Asaji Summer Festival 2026" will take place in Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. Beloved during the Obon season, the "Asaji Summer Festival" is a summer tradition in Asaji Town, easily accessible for locals as well as families and friends visiting for the holidays. Enjoy food stalls while traditional Kagura performances and Asaji Ondo continue, culminating in fireworks that light up the summer night sky. The fireworks launched at Asaji Ground are one of the highlights, allowing for an up-close experience. 【Date and Time】August 15, 2026 (Saturday) 18:00 - 21:00 *In case of rain, fireworks will be postponed to August 17 (Monday) 【Location】Asaji Ground (Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture) 【Schedule】 18:00 - Food stalls 18:30 - Kagura 19:30 - Asaji Ondo 19:45 - Opening Declaration 20:00 - Fireworks Launch *Subject to change due to weather conditions 【Notes】 Traffic regulations will be in effect around the venue from 17:30. There may be dark areas between nearby parking lots and the venue, so having a flashlight is recommended. ■Contact Information Asaji Town Hometown Development Executive Committee Office (Bungoono City Asaji Branch) TEL: 0974-72-1111 ■■Access from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture to the center of Bungoono City■■■ Approximately 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture Approximately 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing tourist attractions and recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

A Yezo sika deer standing by Lake Utonai. This was taken during the "Waterfowl Count Survey" on July 19. (Image provided by Lake Utonai Wildlife Center)

I was healed by the many wind chimes in the greenery at a park I visited during my trip to Nagano.

Yusaku Park's Lycoris ❚ As of July 22, 2026 Located in Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, known for its autumn leaves, Yusaku Park has a summer star as well. That is the "Lycoris" quietly blooming by Shinji Pond. The small orange flowers catch your eye amidst the green scenery. Currently, the flowers are beginning to bloom little by little. We will update you on the blooming status. ■■Yusaku Park 【Location】Kameozuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City About 45 minutes by car from Oita Mera IC About 6 minutes by car from Roadside Station Asaji About 4 minutes by car from JR Asaji Station 【Parking】Available (Free, about 50 cars) 【Restroom】Available 【Opening Hours】No specific hours (Free to stroll around) ■■Access from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture to the center of Bungoono City■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Taken on July 24, 2014. Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine, a path for the heart. Mist is being sprayed, creating a refreshing atmosphere.🌁

I went to work from Hon-Kawagoe Station for the first time in a while. This is the Enmusubi Fuurin at the Honkawagoe Station Ticket Gate.🎐

Taken on July 9, 2026. These are the relationship-binding wind chimes at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine.

We are currently recruiting participants for the event! 📣 On Tuesday, August 11th, the "All Japan Mamachari 6-Hour Endurance Race" will be held at the Tokachi Speedway in Sarabetsumura, under the bright summer sky. 🚴🚴 Why not give it your all and sprint around the circuit, which is usually off-limits, on a mamachari? The concept is "Enjoying an extraordinary space!"‼ This is a perfect opportunity to forget about the busyness of daily life, sweat it out, and relieve stress! 😍 Let's pedal together with friends and create the best summer memories! We look forward to your participation! 🤗 🔶For reservations and details, please check the Tokachi Speedway website below. 🔶Contact: Mamachari Endurance Race Secretariat TEL: 090-2050-1220 http://tokachi.msf.ne.jp/moto-event.php?event_id=753...

Event Announcement 📣 On Saturday, July 25th, a fun disaster prevention event called "Mizube de Wasshoi!" will be held for everyone from children to adults! At 1:00 PM, the opening event "Cheers by the Water" will take place, where everyone at the venue will toast together 😊 Free beverages such as grape juice and tea for children, and Tokachi wine for adults will be served 🎵 In the "Disaster Prevention Experience Zone," there will be a gathering of vehicles from the Self-Defense Forces, fire department, and police, along with an exciting helicopter appearance 🚒🚓 Additionally, there will be plenty of experiences to learn about disaster prevention while having fun, including a 200-meter bucket relay where everyone can work together! Moreover, there will be lots of enjoyable elements like gourmet food made from local delicious ingredients and a festival corner that children love 😍 A special day filled with learning and fun✨✨ Please invite your family and friends and come enjoy the event 🤗 Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM Venue: Ikeda Kasen Park (In case of rain: Ikeda Town General Gymnasium Arena) https://kankou-ikeda.com//

Taken on July 9, 26. This is the matchmaking wind chime at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine. This year, I am challenging myself to see how many times I can capture this composition.

Event Announcement📣 The Shikaoicho Fireworks Festival will be held on Saturday, July 25th! 😊 Enjoy a variety of delicious local flavors at the "Great Flavor Corner," and starting at 6 PM, participate in the "Grand Bingo Tournament" where you can win luxurious gift certificates and prizes! 😍 Bingo cards will be distributed to the first 400 people starting at 5 PM. 🎵 Then, at 8 PM, a spectacular display of fireworks will light up the night sky! 🎆 Create summer memories with your family and friends at Shikaribetsu River Park for the "Fireworks Festival"! 🤗 🔶Date: Saturday, July 25th, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM *In case of rain, the event will be postponed to Sunday, July 26th, and if it rains again on the 26th, it will be postponed to Monday, July 27th. *Please check the Shikaoicho Chamber of Commerce website for confirmation of the event's status. 🔶Location: Shikaribetsu River Park https://www.shikaoi-shokokai.com//

Did you know that Manda Pit was one of the main entrances of the Miike Coal Mine? Coal was an important energy source that supported modern Japan's industry and transportation. Walking through Manda Pit allows you to feel how the region and industry were connected. It's not just about seeing the buildings; knowing their roles deepens the visit. 【Visiting Information】9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (the following weekday if a public holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and junior high school students / Manda Mine Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Fun Facts #Miike Coal Mine #History of Coal Mining #Modernization of Japan #Industrial History #Educational Travel #Social Studies Field Trip #Historical Travel #MandaCoalMine #Arao City #Kumamoto Travel #IndustrialHistory #JapaneseHistory #WorldHeritage #JapanTravel #VisitJapan

Taken on July 4, 2026. This is the flower water offering at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.🌻

Introduction to Rental Bicycles 🚴🚴🚴 How about casually exploring the hot air balloon town of Kami Shihoro with a rental bicycle in a "Chari-bura" style? From leisurely cycling around the town to tackling the challenging climbs and descents of a real hill climb, you can enjoy it in your preferred style 🎵🎵 Bicycles are available for rent at three locations: "Michinoeki Kamishihoro" and "Kamishihoro Town Transportation Terminal" in the city center, and "Higashi-Taisetsu Nature Center" in the Nukabira area! Additionally, on the two selectable 22km courses between "Higashi-Taisetsu Nature Center" and "Michinoeki Kamishihoro," a drop-off service is also available. If you start from the "Higashi-Taisetsu Nature Center" in Nukabira Gensenkyo, you can enjoy a comfortable downhill ride, mainly downhill‼ On the other hand, for those who want to test their stamina, the uphill-focused hill climb course on the reverse route is recommended. 🚵‍♀️🚵‍♀️ Tailor your ride to your fitness level and enjoy a breezy journey through the great outdoors 🤗 https://kamishihoro.info/rentalcycle/...

Taken on July 4, 2026. This is the flower water offering at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.🌻

I went to Miyagi Prefecture for a family trip. It was very hot, but the green trees and ice cream provided a sense of coolness. This photo was taken at a shop near Seiganji in Matsushima Town, Miyagi Prefecture, and it represents the scenery that makes me think, "This is summer in Japan."

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

A breathtaking view unfolds along the Sky Road. This trail runs through the Hokuriku Alps Panorama Ginza. Starting from the Azumino trailhead to Nakabusa Onsen, you will walk from Mt. Tsubakuro to Mt. Daitenjodake. Enjoy the view of Mt. Yarigatake as you hike! 😆 Please be aware that hiking carries risks such as sudden weather changes and getting lost. Always check the latest weather information before entering and plan according to your physical condition. Avoid solo hikes, ensure you have proper gear, and submit a "mountaineering report."

Nishiwaki in the center of Hyogo prefecture proudly proclaims itself "The Navel of Japan." Being a bellybutton seems a little unflattering, but it is actually a hotly disputed title, since Shibukawa in Gunma prefecture contests the title with its own Navel festival, complete with painted stomachs. Weird. Nishiwaki itself has a "navel park", complete with monument, but thankfully has a lot more to indicate than its name or its relative geographic remoteness would indicate. A nice science museum and observatory is available, and the staff are very kind with on-hand demonstrations and explanations. A multipurpose community center "Mirai-e" has a large children's play area stocked with a very unusual amount of wooden toys from Sweden. If you are looking for something more cultural, Nishiwaki is a center of the Banshu-ori textile tradition, making it one of the best places to get cotton products that are grown in Japan.

Taken on July 4, 2014. This is the flower water offering at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

Before work, I visited Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine. The mist created a mystical atmosphere in the precincts.🌁 The rainy season has ended, marking the beginning of summer.

Kushiro Prince Hotel is about a 10-minute walk from Kushiro Station. There is a direct bus connection from Tancho Kushiro Airport, and it takes about 15 minutes by car from Doto Expressway Kushiro-Chuo Interchange. Convenient for business, it offers comfort as a base. Unwind your tired body from travel and work in the fitness room at night. With a laundry room available, you can stay with peace of mind even for multiple nights. Even during business trips, you can keep yourself organized. Experience such a stay at Kushiro Prince Hotel. For details on the consecutive stay plan, please check the official website from the profile URL. 📍Kushiro Prince Hotel https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/...

Izaki River Pool Located in Kiyokawamachi, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Izaki River Pool is a natural pool that utilizes the river as it is. This pool is situated along the Okudake River, and the water is clear. It is a pristine stream sourced from Mt. Sobosan, which provides a refreshing feeling just by looking at it. The section separated by stones has shallow water, making it easy for small children to play. *Conditions of the river on the day may vary. 【Location】Kiyokawamachi, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Udaeda 【Usage Fee】Free 【Hours of Operation】No specific hours 【Parking】Available 【Restrooms】Available *Please use the restroom at the adjacent "Lodge Kiyokawa" (10:00 AM - 5:00 PM) ■■Access from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture to the center of Bungoono City■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing recommended tourist spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Taken on July 1, 26. This is the rhubarb and blueberry shortcake from cafe andon, along with an iced cafe latte. Since Spain won, I feel like something good is going to happen. I hope good things happen for everyone too.🇪🇸🏆🎊㊗️✨

Taken on July 1, 26. This is the rhubarb and blueberry shortcake from cafe andon.🫐 I enjoy cakes made with tart fruits, but unfortunately, it is no longer available for sale.

Taken on July 1, 26. This is homemade Genovese rigatoni by CAF ANDON. The aroma of basil is refreshing, making it a perfect summer dish.🌿🍅

Today, I visited Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine. Since the approach was under construction, I entered from the Path of the Heart. There was mist, creating a magical atmosphere.

Introduction to Rental Bicycles and Cycling Tours🚴🚴🚴 The cycling tour "Memuro Sanpo" in Memuro Town allows you to leisurely enjoy the streets and nature of Memuro by bicycle with a local guide😊 Tokachi, known for its thriving agriculture and dairy farming, offers vast fields and ranches, unique views of the Hidaka Mountain Range, and beautiful scenery to enjoy with all your senses😍 The concept is "Delicious, Beautiful, and Memorable Memuro Sanpo"🎵🎵 We are always recruiting for cycling tours. Our guided cycling tours offer a variety of courses suitable for beginners to intermediate riders!! We also accept custom plans tailored to your requests. Bicycles are available for rent at "Memuro-do 1st Floor - Memuro Town Tourism and Products Association" located in front of Memuro Station. We also offer a delivery service to your desired rental and return location (please note that a handling fee may apply). Be sure to experience the charm of Memuro Town by riding a bicycle🤗 https://tokachiplus.com//

🌸🌼Tarumae Shrine's Flower Water Offering🌺🌻 Although the number of humid days is increasing, the water basin remains refreshing✨