NEW OPEN on May 23! A new general store is opening in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture☕🌳 Its name is bonheur poche (bonheur poche). In French it means "pocket of happiness." The owner, Mr. Motoyoshi, is from Osaka and has worked mainly as an interior coordinator, contributing to the creation of over 1,000 homes. Driven by a long-held wish to run a café, Mr. Motoyoshi opened Satoyama Cafe An in October 2024. Families, café lovers, and visitors from afar keep returning to Satoyama Cafe An. The café, renovated from a 100-year-old traditional house, feels stylish and refined while holding a hint of nostalgia. He places particular care on creating a comfortable atmosphere. He sources everyday goods that blend into daily life and add a little richness to living. Bonheur poche will also host workshops in the future. Both Satoyama Cafe An and bonheur poche will continue to develop as places that visitors can enjoy. For details, see the Editorial Report on the Shobara Tourist Navi site, Shobara Tourist Navi. Basic information for bonheur poche Opening date: Friday, May 23, 2025 Address: 89 Kamihara-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Hours: 11:00–17:00 Closed: Monday and Tuesday; Sundays irregularly closed Parking: Available (shared with Satoyama Cafe An) Contact: 0824-74-6994 (shared with Satoyama Cafe An)

📢 Special Exhibition “Sakai’s Craft and Beauty: Red & Blue That Color the Arts” 👀 📍 Enjoy the red ● and blue ● color world inspired by the Osaka-Kansai Expo at Sakai City Museum! ●● About 60 outstanding pieces on display—definitely worth seeing! 🍡🎤 This is the perfect event to soak in Sakai’s history and culture! ✨ 📅 Exhibition Period: Tuesday, May 20 – Sunday, July 13, 9:30 AM–5:15 PM 📍 Location: Sakai City Museum, inside Daisen Park 🔍 For more details, search for “Sakai City Museum”

May has finally reached the late part of the month! 🌳🍃 This time, we present eight fresh-green spots in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture—places blessed with vast nature and satoyama landscapes that you should stop by. Each spot includes two photos! For more details, see the spot information on Shobara Tourist Navi, Shobara City’s tourism information site! ✨ 1⃣ Nanatsukahara Plateau Poplar Avenue Address: Nanatsuka-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Highlights: Nanatsukahara Plateau was the site of Japan’s first national stud farm, established in 1900. Since then, it has built a history as a livestock research institution and now continues research as the Prefectural Livestock Technology Center. The poplar avenue was planted when the Nanatsukahara Ranch opened in the Meiji era and stands tall along both sides of a 200-meter ranch road within the pasture. 2⃣ Taishaku Gorge, a Quasi-National Park Address: Tojo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture – Jinseki Kogen Town, Jinseki District, Hiroshima Prefecture Highlights: Taishaku Gorge offers the limestone natural bridge Onbashi, the preserved Hakundo limestone cave with stalactites and stone formations, and many other dramatic rocks that convey a long history. Shinryuko, an artificial lake completed in the Taisho era, hosts activities such as kayaking and sightseeing boat rides. 3⃣ Biboku Hilltop Park Satoyama Station Shobara Furari (National Government Park) Address: 584 Nanatsuka-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Highlights: The National Biboku Hilltop Park sits at the heart of the Chugoku region with the theme “Hometown Play” and welcomes three-generation families. Satoyama Station Shobara Furari inside the park is a free area (note: some days may not be free), and in front lies Kunigane Pond, where visitors can sense the vastness of nature. The site also features a restaurant, dog run, and kids’ space, and a monthly market event is held. 4⃣ Mt. Hiba (Hibayama) Address: Mikawachi, Hiwa-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Highlights: Mt. Hiba is associated with a theory that it is the burial place of the goddess Izanami no Mikoto from the Kojiki creation myth. At the center of a moss-covered megalith on the summit’s circular clearing—set within a beech forest—lies what is said to be her grave. The area is designated as the Hiba Mountain Legendary Site and listed as a Hiroshima Prefecture historic site. A stand of yew trees designated as a natural monument by Shobara City grows near the summit. Mt. Azuma, also in Shobara City, is another popular mountain for hikers. 5⃣ Mt. Azuma (Azumayama) Address: Moriwaki, Hiwa-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture – Omaki, Okuizumo Town, Nita District, Shimane Prefecture Highlights: At 1,239 meters in the Hiba-Dogo-Taishaku Quasi-National Park, Mt. Azuma welcomes beginner hikers with beech forests and natural grassy meadows. You can enjoy vivid nature from spring’s fresh green through the first snows of late autumn. Legend says Izanagi no Mikoto called to Izanami no Mikoto on Mt. Hiba with the words “Ah, my wife.” Mt. Hiba, also in Shobara City, is another popular hiking spot. On Sunday, June 1, 2025, the Mt. Azuma summer opening ceremony praying for climbing safety will take place. 6⃣ Mt. Dogo (Dogoyama) Address: Saijo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture – Nichinan, Hino District, Tottori Prefecture Highlights: Forming part of the Hiba-Dogo-Taishaku Quasi-National Park and bordering Tottori Prefecture, Mt. Dogo is a treasure trove of alpine plants and rare species. A vast grassy plaza called Tsukimioka spreads at about 1,000 meters above sea level, and remnants of former grazing appear as long stone walls running from Iwatoyama to the Dogo summit like a Great Wall. These natural and human-shaped scenes are striking. The trails are relatively gentle, making the mountain suitable for families and beginners. Azaleas bloom beautifully in June, pampas grass in autumn, and the 360-degree views are wonderfully dreamy. Each year, the Dogo Highlands Opening is held. 7⃣ Mt. Ashitake (Ashitakeyama) Address: Homura-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Highlights: Nicknamed the “Japanese Pyramid,” Mt. Ashitake has long been linked by legend to the mausoleum of Emperor Jimmu. Its triangular silhouette—from any angle—and the clusters of large boulders gave it the aura of an ancient ruin. In 1934, pyramid researcher Katsugun Sakai visited and studied the boulder groups and mountain, proposing that Ashitake is the world’s oldest pyramid main hall and that nearby Kikyozan on the north side serves as the worship hall. Mt. Ashitake features huge rocks such as Taka-iwa, Tengu-iwa, and Toriboshi-iwa, while Kikyozan contains Mirror Rock, Orientation Stone, dolmens (offering tables), and Jinmu Rock among many monoliths. 8⃣ The Great Horse Chestnut of Kumano (Kumano Shrine) Address: 630 Kumano, Saijo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Highlights: Kumano Shrine venerates the Kojiki deity Izanami no Mikoto, the goddess of land creation. Over 100 giant cedars grow there, 11 of which are designated as Hiroshima Prefecture natural monuments. The shrine is a popular power spot where visitors can feel a mystical atmosphere. The Great Horse Chestnut of Kumano is one of Japan’s largest hollow-based ancient trees and is designated a national natural monument. This 30-meter horse chestnut is of a species similar to the chestnut-lined avenues in Paris and ranges in Japan from Hokkaido to Kyushu. For the sake of tree protection, please avoid entering the area around the tree’s base.

🍶 “Rikyukura” Sake Tasting Event🌸 Come and sample a variety of sake labels from Rikyukura! Whether you love sake or are trying it for the first time, everyone can enjoy this event🌸 Ask our staff about foods that pair well with sake and about the relationship between sake and Sakai’s traditional culture🍶 📅 Sunday, May 25, 11:00–16:00 📍 Sakai Densho-kan 🚃 A 3-minute walk from Hankai Line Myokokuji-mae Station For details, search “Sakai Densho-kan Rikyukura”🔍

🌸 Special Exhibition and Sale of Sakai May Carp Streamers 🎏🌸 ✨The Beauty of Hand-Painted Carp Streamers 🎏✨ A special exhibition and sale featuring hand-painted carp streamers by Takeshi Takada, the sixth-generation artisan of Sakai May Carp Streamers "Takagi"! Take this chance to appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of hand-painted carp streamers with a history spanning more than a century. 🎵 📅 Friday, May 16 – Thursday, May 22, 10:00–18:00 📍 Sakai Densho-kan 🚃 A 3-minute walk from Hankai Line "Myokokuji-mae" For details, search for "Sakai Densho-kan carp streamers" 🔍

Taishaku Gorge, one of Japan’s leading gorges, spans Tojo Town in Shobara City and Jinseki Kogen Town in Jinseki District, Hiroshima Prefecture. Located in the heart of the Chugoku Mountains, it is a principal scenic spot of Hiba-Dogo-Taishaku Quasi-National Park and is designated a nationally recognized place of scenic beauty. Here are two highlights of the Taishaku Gorge area: Onbashi and Shinryu Lake. Onbashi is a colossal natural bridge representing Japan, measuring 90 meters long, 18 meters wide, and 40 meters high. It is a limestone bridge spanning the Taishaku Gorge valley and, because of its grandeur, is also known as Kono Bridge. Shinryu Lake is an artificial lake completed in the Taisho era within a limestone gorge, with a 24-kilometer shoreline and an 8-kilometer length. In the coming season the area will be lush with fresh green leaves, and in autumn you can admire fiery foliage from sightseeing boats on the lake. A karst plateau formed by deep erosion of limestone extends across the area, preserving a landscape that remains in harmony with nature. Within this quasi-national park’s expansive natural setting, you can rent bicycles and enjoy activities such as kayaking and open-boat rides. Aim to visit now while the fresh green season is at its most beautiful!

🎪 Ebisujima Côté Rivière ✨ EBISUJIMA CÔTÉ RIVIÈRE 🚩 [Updated May 16] Because rain is forecast for Sunday morning, the event time has been changed to 12:00–17:00. 🌿 Why not relax by the riverbank of Ebisujima, where time flows gently, and enjoy shopping for antique goods 🪑, gourmet food 🍽️, and DJ music 🎶? ✨ 🔍 For details, check @ebisujima.cote.rivi

🌹✨One of Britain’s two leading ballet companies, the Birmingham Royal Ballet, returns to Japan for the first time in seven years!✨🌹 Enjoy a casual dinner at Sakai Terrace Salto, the restaurant adjacent to Fennie Che Sakai, including an appetizer platter, soup, main course, bread, dessert, and one drink, and savor one of the world’s finest ballet companies in this special plan.🩰 📅Performance date: Wednesday, July 2 –🎭 The Sleeping Beauty, full three acts 🎭 📍Fennie Che Sakai Grand Hall ⌚Doors open 18:30 / Ends around 21:30 🎫 S seats (1st floor) with meal: ¥26,000 🎫 A seats (3rd floor) with meal: ¥22,500 📅Application deadline: Friday, June 20 🔍For details, please see the Sakai Tourism Guide website 💡Would you like to enjoy Britain’s beautiful ballet and Sakai cuisine in this special package?

A roundup of dog-friendly dining and dog runs where you can eat with your pet in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, is now featured in the Editorial Report on the Shobara Tourist Navi website! For details, please check the homepage.✨ Basic information on shops that offer menu items for dogs 🐶 Be sure to visit the spots that catch your eye! 1. Dog Cafe Pacem (Pacem) [Address] 634-2 Heiwa-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture [Phone] (0824) 74-1201 [Hours] 9:00–19:00 [Closed] Wednesday, Thursday [Parking] About 10 spaces [Recommended dog meal menu] Chicken and tofu dog burger 260 yen (tax included) The carrot paw print is adorable, and all dog menu items list ingredients, so you can feel secure about allergies! 2. National Hibakokuryo Hill Park Satoyama Station Shobara Furari [Address] 4-10 Mikkaichi-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture [Phone] 080-8242-4173 [Hours] 9:30–17:00 (varies by season) *Both park admission and dog run reception close one hour before closing* *Operates according to the opening hours of the National Hibaku Plateau Hills Park* [Closed] Monday, New Year holidays (12/31, 1/1) *Operates according to the opening hours of the National Hibaku Plateau Hills Park* [Parking] Lot 5 is open free of charge *During busy periods (about five days a year) it becomes a paid parking lot* 3. Hiroshima Prefectural Forest for Citizens [Address] 156-14 Yuki, Saijo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture [Phone] 0824-84-2020 [Hours] 8:00–17:00 [Closed] Closed for the winter season *Dogs are allowed to run freely in the snow* [Parking] Available 4. Nanatsukahara Service Area (downbound) [Address] 560-4 Yamauchi-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture [Hours] Open 24 hours [Closed] None [Parking] Available 5. Roadside Station Takano [Address] 49 Shimomonda, Takano-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture [Phone] 0824-86-3131 [Hours] 9:00–18:00 [Closed] 2nd and 4th Wednesday [Parking] Available

🎶 Rhythm of India 🇮🇳✨🎶 Six traditional instrumentalists have come from the Republic of India to Japan, performing sitar, tabla, santoor, mridangam, sarangi, and sarod 🎶 This is the first time these six instruments will be played together in Sakai! 👀 Opportunities like this will remain rare. Please come and join us. 🎫 Admission is free, but prior registration is required! 🔍 For details, check Fennie Che Sakai’s official website 😀

🌊✨ Memories 🌊✨ of Iriomote Island Diving Tour Hello! This time in Hokule'a Shonan, I went to Iriomote Island! There is a to everyone who participated. First of all, the highlight of this tour, the big game! The manta ray we were looking for swam gracefully right above us, and everyone was very excited about its majestic appearance! The next thing that appeared was a turtle 🐢. They have a strong spirit of service, come close to everyone, and take a commemorative photo perfectly! In addition, a flock of barracudas will appear at the end! The thunderstorm ☔️ of the previous day reduced the visibility a little, but I still enjoyed the luxurious scene. In addition to the big fish, we also observed a variety of corals 🪸, beautiful water channels ☀️ with light, and many macro organisms such as clownfish and nudibranchs. The clownfish even showed off a 😊 trick Even after diving, we spent a relaxing time at a café and toasted together, making it a very satisfying four days not only at sea but also on land. The time I spent with you was truly a wonderful memory. ⭐️ The next Iriomote Island tour will be Friday, May 15-18, 2026 Capacity: 8 people Make your reservation as soon as possible! 😎 🌈 If it's Hokule'a Shonan There are Accommodation tours every month! Accommodation tours include more than just diving There are a lot of things that everyone can enjoy 🙌 Hokule'a Shonan is a dive shop located in Hiratsuka, Kanagawa Prefecture. Under the theme of "Let's embark on a journey to an unseen world!", we deliver the splendor and fun of Nature to everyone through diving. Izu, Okinawa, overseas, etc., we offer more than 300 days of courses and tours a year! The small number of students is small, so beginners can participate with confidence. We are flexible in responding to your requests, so let's experience a new world of the sea together! 🌈 #IriomoteDiving #ScubaAdventure #OceanExploration #BigMarineLife #MantaRayEncounter #TurtleEncounter #BarracudaSchool #UnderwaterAdventure #TropicalDiving #IslandGetaway #ScubaTravel #OceanLovers #DiveWithUs #ExploreTheBlue #HokuleaShonan #PADI5Star #DivingExperience #TravelJapan #IslandVibes #ScubaDivingJapan

There’s a ranch in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, where you can meet cows and enjoy the great outdoors, and even try your hand at cheesemaking 🧀!🐮✨ Fukufuku Ranch sits in Kuwacho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Although it’s called a ranch, it’s essentially a mountain. You can watch cows stride confidently across steep slopes and through thickets, and the wide natural landscape—full of insects and thick branches that make you want to pick them up—invites curious children to romp and run with delight. There are about five to ten cows on the ranch. From spring through autumn they graze on fresh grass in the pastures, and in winter they eat hay. All the animals are Jersey cattle. Of course you can interact with the cows. Remarkably, the ranch also offers a variety of hands-on programs! Here are five experiences available. (For details, please see the official Fukufuku Ranch website.) 1. A walking course right beside the cows 2. Ranch trekking and cottage cheese making 3. Milking 4. Butter making 5. A slightly indulgent ranch tour guided by ranch staff These programs were created out of a desire for visitors to learn about the milk that becomes cheese and about the cows that live in the mountains. Whether with family, a group, friends, or alone, please make a reservation and give it a try 👀✨ Facility name: Fukufuku Ranch Address: 1390 Yuki, Kuwacho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture Phone: 0824-87-2195

We will hold a grand tea gathering where you can enjoy Sakai’s diverse charms and performances by artists connected to Sakai 🍵🍡🎶 Would you like to spend a special time experiencing Sakai’s spirit of hospitality at the Osaka-Kansai Expo? 😊 Not only can you enjoy tea service by the three Sen families and sweets from long-established wagashi shops, but you can also relax to pleasant music by artists with ties to Sakai 🍵🍡🎶 📅 Period: Saturday, May 10 – Tuesday, May 13 🏠 Venue: Osaka-Kansai Expo Pop-up Stage South and Gallery EAST 🔴 Participation: A numbered ticket (first-come, first-served) is required for the tea ceremony and meditation experience at Gallery EAST. 💰 Cost: Free 🔍 For event details, search “Sakai Expo”! 🌟 During the event, we will run a campaign giving wagashi from Sakai’s long-established confectioners on the spot to those who post photos of the Sakai event on social media with #matchasakai #japaneseculture.‼️ Please post and enjoy Sakai’s delicious wagashi 😋🍡 ・Maruichi Kashiho ( @maruichikashiho ) ・Kaan Satoya ( @satoya._ ) ・Hosen Kashipo ( @takamotimoti ) ・Hamadera Mochi Kagetsudo ・Okashi Tsukasa Tenjinmochi ( @tenjinmochi ) ・Okayoshi Mishoan 🌟 Also, if you scan the QR code for SAKAI TICKET at the venue with your smartphone, you can enter a lottery to win digital coupons usable in Sakai City‼️If you’re lucky, you might win a 10,000-yen subsidy voucher usable at hotels in Sakai City⁉️There are no losing entries—everyone wins something—so please join us 🤗 🔍 Also check the “Sakai Tourism Guide Expo Special Site (If you came to the Expo, come to Sakai too)”! We look forward to your visit 😄

✨Tea served in contemporary artists' teaware 🍵 – Art Tea Gathering in Sakai🎨– Sakai City will present a tea gathering using contemporary artists' teaware as part of Sakai’s program for the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo. We will host tea service events using contemporary artists' teaware at tea ceremony–related venues around the city so visitors can enjoy the Expo experience locally. Please see the Sakai City website for details.

Would you like to come see the carp streamers at the Jordan Pavilion during the Osaka-Kansai Expo? 🎏👀✨ We raised a hand-painted carp streamer over 5 meters long at the Jordan Pavilion, made during the workshop held on Thursday, April 24. The carp streamer carries the workshop participants’ wishes for peace and hopes for the future. 🌈🕊✨ The display is a limited-time exhibit through late May, so please come and see it during this period. 😊 Location: Osaka-Kansai Expo Jordan Pavilion The Sakai May Carp Streamers can be seen at Sakai Denshokan (1-1-30 Zaimokucho Nishi, Sakai Ward, Sakai City), so please also visit Sakai City. 🎶 For event details, search “Sakai City website (collaboration with Jordan).” Also check “Sakai Denshokan (Sakai Traditional Industry Center) (@sakaidensan)”! Be sure to check the Sakai Tourism Guide Expo Special Site (If you come to the Expo, come to Sakai too)! We look forward to seeing you all. 😄

📢 "Futari Demo Sakai" Special Experience✨ "Futari Demo Sakai" Special Experience🍃 A limited-time special program lets you touch Sakai’s history and culture!✨ Would you like to create a memorable experience for a special time spent together?💕 📅Period: March 14 (Friday) – May 31 (Saturday) 🚩Experience Plans 1. Tea ceremony for two – Putting love into matcha (Sakai Risho no Mori) 2. Matcha art for two – It’s matcha, not a latte (Saryo Tsuboichi Seicha Honpo) 3. Wagashi making for two – Let’s have fun and make them together (Sakai Densho-kan) 4. Shrine grounds cleaning for two – Start the day at Otorii Taisha (Otorii Taisha) 5. Romantic experience for two – Sakai Old Port picnic (AOINAPOLI UMISOBA, Sakai Old Port) 🔍For details, search "Futari Demo Sakai" on the Sakai Tourist Guide website!

🌊✨ In photogenic Shizuura, enjoy ✨📸 the beauty of water Shizuura in Nishi-Izu is a diving Spot known for its beautiful Water landscapes and calm waters. This time, Hokule'a Shonan Held in a photo tour and divemaster training in Shizuura. Guests are transformed into water photographers with underwater cameras in their hands. From the fantastic scenery of swaying seaweed to the creatures of the macroscopic world, I captured the moment of my choice. On the other hand, the members who participated in the divemaster training practiced rope work and honed their safety management skills, and acquired skills while having fun. It was a fulfilling day full of learning and laughter. 🌈 Hokule'a Shonan photo tour is recommended 👇 for people like this ✅ I want to thoroughly enjoy shooting in Water! ✅ I want you to teach me how to use the camera carefully! ✅ I want to leave a beautiful sea world in my memories! Hokule'a Shonan offers private photo tours for everyone, from beginners to advanced riders. From basic camera operations to composition advice, experienced instructors provide solid support. 📸 You can also request a tailor-made tour according to your wishes! We can help you improve your diving skills and create special memories. Enjoy a special time just for you in the beautiful sea of Shizuura. #HokuleaShonan #PhotoDiveTour #ScubaDivingJapan #WestIzuDiving #ShizuuraDiving #DiveMasterTraining #MarineLifePhotography #OceanAdventure #UnderwaterExplorer #OceanMemories #ExploreJapanUnderwater #DiveAndCapture

[Hanakien Opens] Hanakien on Yachiho Kogen opens today, Saturday, May 10. 🌸 The garden is filled with blooming pink azaleas (rengetsu tsutsuji), Enkianthus (dodantsutsuji), and three-leaf azaleas (mitsuba tsutsuji), and in June the park will be dyed red with flowers. 💐💐 Come and visit us. 🌳🥰 Opening period: Saturday, May 10, 2025 – Sunday, October 5, 2025 Hours: 8:30 AM–4:20 PM (last admission at 3:30 PM)

Japan’s Most Beautiful Stand of Silver Birches✨ Slender silver birches reach up toward the blue sky🌳✨ The sky’s blue, the birches’ white, and the green sasa grass underfoot… Everything is so beautiful you’ll want to stare forever😌🌱 The atmosphere changes with each season, so you’ll want to return again and again! Come and visit Yachiho Kogen😸♡

Yachiho Kogen Natural Garden A nature garden that captures the natural beauty of Yachiho Kogen...😌🩷 At the garden, you can enjoy three walking courses suited to your available time♬ White Trail: 1 km, about 30 minutes Blue Trail: 1.5 km, about 50 minutes Green Trail: 2.5 km, about 80 minutes In spring and summer, the highland flowers bloom, and in autumn the leaves turn brilliant—there’s plenty to see!🍁 We hope you’ll come and visit😸✨✨

Yachiho Lake Yachiho Lake is a managed fishery where you can enjoy catch-and-release fishing 🐟🫧 Families can have fun together, and there is a Fishing Kids Land where baited rods are available for rent 😸 You can enjoy it surrounded by abundant nature 🌸 We hope you will come and visit ✨

🌊 [GW is refreshing at the sea! ] Family refreshment course & fun dive in Kawana] 🌿✨ During this year's Golden Week, Hokule'a Shonan Held in a family refreshment course and fun dive in Kawana, Shizuoka Prefecture! ☀️ The best diving day with a blue sky. 🌞 The sea of Kawana, with its outstanding transparency, was as beautiful as a painting, with schools of sparkling fish in the water and seaweed swaying gracefully creating a fantastic landscape. 🐠🌿 From the moment we entered the sea, everyone was full of smiles. 😊✨ Those who participated in the refresher course were able to enjoy diving for the yellowtail first time in a long time and were able to dive with peace of mind with the careful support of the instructor. Confirm basic skills and practice buoyancy control in water. 🤿✨ Meanwhile, the Fun Dive team enjoyed a calm stroll in the water and enjoyed the charm of Kawana's colorful sea. 🐠🪸 After diving, everyone took a commemorative photo 📸✨ The smiles in the water and the group photo on land remained as special memories. 🌈 [Hokule'a Shonan's Refreshment Course & Fun Dive] 🌈 At Hokule'a Shonan, you can request a family refreshment class or fun dive Anytime! ✅ Those who want to enjoy diving safely for the yellowtail first time in a long time ✅ Those who want to make memories with family and friends ✅ Those who want to relax and enjoy themselves Dates and dive sites can also be tailored to your wishes. 🌊 📩 Please feel free to contact us to make a reservation for your next refresher course or fun dive. We look forward to your participation! 🤗✨ 👉 For diving Information on Hokule'a Shonan, please see our profile! #ScubaDivingAdventure #FamilyDivingExperience #RefreshDiveCourse #FunDivingJapan #KawanaDiving #DiscoverUnderwaterWorld #ScubaWithFamily #OceanExploration #DivingInJapan #HokuleaShonan #PADI

Good morning! 🌞 Continuing our series, we introduce Furosen at Setouchi Kominka Stays Hiroshima, a traditional house inn in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Furosen sits in Kamitani, a town of terraced rice fields and houses in Shobara City. According to legend, an immortal sage once lived in this valley, and the house stands at the valley’s innermost point, atop the highest terraced field as if it grew from the land itself. In this secluded valley, only vast green hills and birdsong break the silence. Misty dawns, dusks sinking into deep blue, nights filled with the moon and stars. The valley’s seasonal beauty brings profound calm and healing. The spacious 200 m2 house on a broad plot features a clean, white-based interior. Spend time losing yourself in the valley view from the front garden chairs where you can enjoy a BBQ, lounge freely on a Yogibo sofa in the living room, or laze on the engawa that connects to the scenery. At night, relax in the large indoor bath with gently drawn hot water or soak under a sky full of stars in the open-air Goemon-style bath—unique pleasures of Furosen. This inn lets you fully savor the mountain village’s beauty in complete privacy, a feeling you appreciate most by staying overnight. About a 30-minute drive away, you’ll find many leisure facilities, restaurants, and cafes. Within an hour you can reach Izumo or Onomichi, so you can plan flexibly according to your mood and the weather. Facilities provided: cooking utensils, tableware, basic seasonings, refrigerator, microwave, toaster, stove, kettle, water server, audio speakers, shampoo, conditioner, body soap, facial cleanser, shaving foam, body towel, brush, hairdryer, toothbrush set, face towels, bath towels, razor, cotton swabs, lotion, yukata (casual robe), slippers, and Wi-Fi. Check-in / Check-out Check-in: from 15:00 Check-out: by 11:00 Children are welcome ・Elementary school age and older: 4,400 JPY per person ・Preschool children: 2,200 JPY per person

🫧 A soap-bubble show is coming to “Otohime no Kyujitsu.” 🫧 Guinness World Record for soap bubbles 🏆 Achieved the world record in the "Longest Bubble Garland Wand" category ✨ The Bubble Uncle will be appearing at “Otohime no Kyujitsu” ♪ He is a soap-bubble show specialist who has appeared on numerous media outlets 📺. He will likely fill the old Sakai Port 🌊 with soap bubbles 🫧 On Saturday, May 10th, from 3:30 PM for about 30 minutes. We look forward to seeing you there 🙌

“Solve the Mystery, Sakai” Leisure Ride 🚴‍♂️ 📢 The Sakai Convention and Visitors Bureau (public corporation) hosts a touring, real-world puzzle game called "Solve the Mystery, Sakai: The Spirit Kajira and the Vanished Legendary Blacksmith." Participants cycle around Sakai’s moat-ringed areas, visiting spots such as the Shimano Bicycle Museum and Sakai Densho-kan, among others, as they play along. ✨

📢 Monster Hunter Replica Great Sword Special Photo Event👀 A special photo event lets you pose as if you are holding a replica Great Sword❣ *You will not be able to touch the replica Great Sword.* Event period: May 3 (Sat) to May 18 (Sun) (closed on Monday, May 12) Session 1: from 10:30 Session 2: from 11:30 Session 3: from 12:30 Session 4: from 13:30 Session 5: from 14:30 Capacity: 5 people per session Fee: free Registration: On the day of the event, numbered tickets will be distributed at Sakai City Tea House Shin-an.

Continuing from the previous post, this time we introduce Kozako Forest from Setouchi Kominka Stays Hiroshima, a traditional country house inn in harmony with nature in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture.✨ Takano Town in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, where Kozako Forest is located, is a heavy-snow area whose wide temperature swings create ideal conditions for local produce such as Takano apples, rice, and goods stored in snow cellars. When buying ingredients from Takano, please stop by Roadside Station Takano. About a 12-minute drive from Roadside Station Takano, Kozako Forest appears when you turn down a small lane through broad, peaceful rice fields—an idyllic spot you might miss if you’re not paying attention—surrounded by a quiet woodland. The 150-year-old exterior evokes the feel of a typical old farmhouse at first glance. Step inside, however, and the space transforms into a state-of-the-art glamping environment with modern design. Features include an earthen-floor living area enclosed in full-height glass that blends the surrounding forest and interior, a bioethanol fire pit, and a large projector. This playful accommodation lets you enjoy nature and time with friends in comfort with the latest amenities. Stay with family, a group, a partner, and small to medium-sized dogs are welcome. Enjoy a restorative yet lively stay wrapped in the tranquil natural surroundings. Facilities provided Cooking utensils/tableware/basic seasonings/refrigerator/microwave/toaster/stove/kettle/water server Shampoo/conditioner/body soap/face wash/shaving foam/body towel/brush/hair dryer/toothbrush set/face towel/bath towel/razor/cotton swabs/skin toner/yukata/slippers/Wi‑Fi/large projector with Android TV functionality Check‑in / Check‑out Check‑in from 15:00 Check‑out by 11:00 Children welcome ・Elementary school age and older: ¥4,400 per person ・Preschool children: ¥2,200 per person Pets allowed ・Only small and medium dogs accepted (up to 20 kg) ・Additional fee required (first dog: ¥3,300 / please consult for a second dog) ・Acceptance conditions: housebroken/toen vaccinated/able to stay alone/not in heat ・The property provides only a cage. Please bring toilet supplies, bowls, leashes, sheets, etc. ・Please spend time with your dog in the earthen-floor living area inside the building. ・When making a reservation, please review and agree to the pet accommodation terms and conditions before your visit.

Shobara City in Hiroshima Prefecture is home to many traditional folk houses in Japan. Among the three Kominka stays that harmonize with nature, this time we introduce Chojaya from Setouchi Kominka Stays Hiroshima. Chojaya is a breathtakingly beautiful building that has preserved its trade name in this area for 250 years. Its vast 200-square-meter space retains the weight of history while being reborn as a luxurious kominka hotel that offers modern guests comfort and ease of stay. Chojaya is located in Hiwa Town, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, a satoyama landscape so picturesque that it appears on tourism posters. In autumn, you can gaze over golden terraced rice fields. Enjoy modern comforts such as a designer spacious bathroom, Western-style bedroom with beds, and an island kitchen. Please bring your own ingredients to cook and dine as you like. Basic seasonings, cooking utensils, and tableware are provided. Address 1528 Mikawachi, Hiwa-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture 727-0311 Access 40 minutes by car from the Chugoku Expressway Shobara IC exit 35 minutes by car from JR Geibi Line Bingo-Shobara Station 110 minutes by car from Hiroshima Airport 115 minutes by car from Hiroshima Station Check-in / Check-out Check-in: from 15:00 Check-out: by 11:00 Children are welcome to stay • Elementary school age and older: ¥4,400 per person • Preschool children: ¥2,200 per person

We present Minamiizu Town’s “May 3–May 6 Golden Week Outing Information.” ◆Saturday, May 3 ・Ishirouzaki Fashion Park 2025 10:00–16:00 Irozaki Ocean Park Dress up and gather at Ishirouzaki! Various stalls including Habashira Dog and more. ◆Saturday, May 3–Monday, May 5 ・Rock Pool Observation Experience 14:30–16:30 Reserve with Eco Surfer! https://www.eco-surf.com/shore/... A first step in playing at the sea. This will level up your summer beach fun this year! ◆Sunday, May 4–Monday, May 5 ・Minamiizu Delicious Food Festival 17:00–21:00 Shimogamo Tropical Botanical Garden A gathering of Minamiizu’s best eats, coloring the night HOT, SPICY, and SWEET. ◆Monday, May 5 (National Holiday)–Tuesday, May 6 (National Holiday) ・Roadside Station Shimogamo Onsen Yunohana GW Event 10:00–15:00 at Roadside Station Shimogamo Onsen Yunohana Various stalls including ring toss, super ball scooping, and yakitori. ◆Until May 5 ※Ongoing, inquiries required ・Mikan Picking ※All-you-can-eat included (Takenoko Shokudo until May 5) http://takenokomura.com// ◆Until May 6 ※Ongoing, inquiries required ・Strawberry Picking at Baby Berry Farm http://babyberryfarm.com//

The only outdoor activity of its kind in Hiroshima Prefecture!?😲 Enjoy Shobara Satoyama Rafting amid fresh green foliage this Golden Week!!✊ Rafting is a thrilling activity where you ride a rubber boat down river rapids! It’s not an exaggeration to call this the only rafting experience in Hiroshima Prefecture (according to our survey), and you can try it here in Shobara City. Groups, families, friends, couples, and solo participants are all very welcome💕 While July and August are peak season, June is also recommended for higher water levels✨ We’re taking lots of reservations for May too!! Reservations for Golden Week are open✨ Search for "Shobara Satoyama Rafting" for details🔍 = Shobara Satoyama Rafting Information ========== [Experience Name] Shobara Satoyama Rafting [Overview] On the Saijo River in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, rafting experiences are held annually from mid-April through October. The eligible ages range from 7 to 70. An instructor rides along, so beginners can feel at ease. Using special paddles, participants paddle together to descend the river. The full course is about 3.5 km long, with thrilling stretches of rapids and rocky sections. Rafting lets you enjoy Shobara’s beautiful nature with all your senses and is a noteworthy water activity. [Meeting Point] Meet at the Ayu no Sato Park boathouse (1641-1 Nagata, Kuchiwa-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima 727-0114, Japan). [Dates and Times] April 26, 2025 (Saturday) – October 31, 2025 (Friday) Morning session: 9:30 AM Afternoon session: 1:30 PM [Fees] ◎ Individual Plan Adult per person: 6,000 yen (tax included) Child (junior high school students and under) per person: 4,000 yen 🌟Fees increase by 500 yen each during peak season! ◎ Private Charter Plan One group (up to 6 people — same fee) Participation fee: 30,000 yen (tax included) [What the fee includes] Guide fee, insurance, full equipment set, and entrance fee for Ayu-no-Sato Onsen [Conditions] ◎ Eligible ages: 7–70 years old ◎ Height: 110 cm or taller ◎ Minimum participants to run: 2 persons [Program Schedule] 1) Change clothes (10 minutes) 2) Safety briefing (10 minutes) 3) Transfer to the start point (15 minutes) 4) Boarding and paddling instruction (15 minutes) 5) Rafting experience starts (120 minutes) 6) Finish-line photos 7) Changing and dismissal (10 minutes) Afterward, soak and relax at the Ayu no Sato Park Takase no Yu hot spring to ease your muscles!♨ [Conditions for operation] The program may be canceled depending on weather or river conditions. [What to bring] Swimsuit, T-shirt, change of clothes, towel, water-friendly shoes (water shoes available for separate rental). Beach sandals are not allowed. Please be sure to check the travel terms, personal information handling, and cancellation fees before applying. ======================================== Make fun outdoor memories in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture!🎶 We hope you give it a try!