The season for fireflies has arrived again. Kikuchi City is a famous firefly spot known as “Japan’s number one firefly home.” You can see them along the Nikakiga River and the Watase River in the Asahi-shi area of Kikuchi City. The places where you can see fireflies in Japan are decreasing year by year. Fireflies do not only thrive where the water is pristine. They prefer places with gentle water flow, sandy or gravelly riverbeds, low ambient light, quiet surroundings, and the presence of freshwater snails such as kawanina. They favor these limited types of habitat. As global environmental issues worsen, the habitats where fireflies can live are also shrinking. Even so, you can still see many fireflies in Kikuchi City. Fireflies spend their larval stage growing in the water for about a year while storing food. They then pupate and emerge as adults. As adults, they live for about two weeks. In other words, out of the 365 days of the year, the period when you can enjoy fireflies is only about two weeks. Also, adult fireflies do not eat. They spend their adult lives without feeding. The fireflies we watch are living through a life that ends in a flash. Each year we can see them because, despite that short life, they reliably pass their life on to the next generation. We are very happy that fireflies can be viewed in Kikuchi City again this year. Please come and visit Kikuchi City to enjoy firefly viewing. □ Best viewing times ・Nikakiga River: mid-May ・Watase River: mid-May to late May □ Viewing areas ・Kikuchi City, Asahi-shi Obara (Obara district) ・Kikuchi City, Asahi-shi Fumoto (Takayanagi district) □ Parking…parking available in each district ・Obara district parking (Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays only, 200 yen) (May 11–early June) ・Takayanagi district parking (free) (May 17–early June) □ Viewing etiquette ・Do not shine flashlights or lights at the fireflies → Fireflies dislike strong light. Shining phone lights or using a flash can cause them to hide. It also disturbs other viewers. ・Do not make loud noises or cause disturbances → Loud noise will scare the fireflies and bother nearby residents. Please be considerate as viewing takes place at night. ・Do not catch or take them home → Adult fireflies can fly for only one to two weeks. Enjoy watching them living in the wild. ・Take your trash home with you → Fireflies live in clean environments. Let’s all protect the beautiful natural environment. ・Follow traffic rules → Viewing takes place at night. Please watch for people stepping onto roads. Road restrictions may be in place around viewing areas during the viewing season. Please cooperate to help keep viewers safe.

Akimasu Observatory ◎First Viewing Point Akimasu Observatory has a first viewing point and a second viewing point. At the first viewing point, the surrounding trees 🌳 have grown tall so the view is no longer clear, but you can enjoy a pleasantly open space♪ ◎Second Viewing Point This 1,000 m–high panoramic platform offers a full 360° view, letting you see from Nobeoka as far as Aso in the distance. On clear days you can also spot Hyuga-nada and Mt. Osuzu, and even the Asahi Kasei smokestack with the naked eye. Facing the direction of the rising sun, it also attracts visitors who come to watch the first sunrise of the year 🌄. *All photos were taken from the second viewing point.* (Photographer: Masahiro Aya) With little light from buildings and a clear sky, some visitors come to photograph the starry night 🌟. ◎Parking If you do not turn toward the viewing points and continue straight, you will find a parking area 🅿️ at the end. Why not come to Akimasu Observatory to capture seasonal panoramic photos 📷 throughout the year? 🤗

[🌸Gokase Hanami 2025 Submitted Photos — Part 10🌸] The entries submitted to the “#Gokase Hanami 2025” held on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account have reached a pause for now as of today💪🌸 The photo contest is still open, so please do submit your entries🤗✨ @_yuta610 @fowafuwarin5 @meiko_ryu @tokotan2._.2 (in no particular order) This time we received many night cherry blossom photos👏 Even with a step ladder or whatever I try, I can’t take good night photos at all — how do people manage to capture such beautiful night shots like these?🤔 They’re truly wonderful!!! We’ll post again when more featured works have been collected🤗💡 -------------------------------------------------------------------- ≪#Gokase Hanami 2025 — How to Enter≫ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account and post photos of flowers taken within Gokasecho on Instagram with the two hashtags #Gokase Hanami 2025 and #date of shooting (example: #March 20)🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... [Period] From Thursday, March 20, 2025 to Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️ Other rules are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Be sure to read them before applying. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️Please take great care to avoid accidents when photographing.

\"Izumi Meat Festival" Held in! 🍖／ Held in the 20th anniversary of Izumi City, the Izumi Meat Festival will be held 🎊✨ on Saturday, May 10 and Sunday, May 11 The venue is the north Car parking lot of the Takaono Branch Office (the parking lot in front of the main office Car Takaono the Tsurumachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry). In addition to enjoying exquisite meat gourmet food, Izumi City's Specialty products are sold, and stage events are also available 🚚🎶 for the whole family to enjoy. In addition, "Premium Gift Certificates" will also be on sale on the day! For 1,000 yen, you can purchase a gift certificate worth 1,500 yen. In addition, we are looking for participants for the #BBQ, which has been well received every time! (First 20 booths) The application method and details are as follows. 🍖BBQ date and time Sunday, May 11, 2025 11:00~14:00 (*BBQ will be Held in Traditional Japanese straw raincoat on Sundays.) ） 🍖How to apply for BBQ participation Please apply in one of the following ways. (1) When applying electronically Please fill in the required information on the dedicated page and apply. https://shinsei.pref.kagoshima.jp/SksJuminWeb/EntryForm?id=RGc8KRz5... (2) When applying by fax Please fill out the application form and send it to FAX: 0996-63-1331 to apply. Please take this opportunity to Enjoy the BBQ at the venue! !! * Cancellation is not possible after application. Held in around the venue during the Events, and Use the free shuttle bus is convenient due 🚌 to implementation of traffic restrictions and expected congestion Click here for 👇 details https://www.city.kagoshima-izumi.lg.jp/page/page_011061.html...

Kamikadoji Temple and the Rhododendrons Kamikadoji Temple sits in Asaji Town, Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. The rhododendrons bloom in profusion and look beautiful. Their pale pink petals are especially lovely. Date photographed: April 21, 2025 Location Kamikadoji Temple (Torita, Asaji Town, Bungo Ono City) ▶ Parking available ▶ Restroom available Kamikadoji Temple Kamikadoji Temple is an ancient temple with over a thousand years of history. It stands on a ridge made of columnar joints of welded tuff formed about 15 million years ago, offering excellent views and historically serving as a strategic stronghold in battles. The temple grounds are planted with many rhododendrons, drawing many visitors during the season. 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 Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu Introducing tourism and recommended spots in Bungo Ono City We share beautiful places around the city on our Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/satonotabiii/...

Rhododendrons at Jinkakuji As of April 21, 2025 The rhododendrons at Jinkakuji in Asaji Town, Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. The rhododendrons are in full bloom and look beautiful. The pale pink petals are especially lovely. Location Jinkakuji (Torida, Asaji Town, Bungo Ono City) ▶ Parking available ▶ Restrooms available Jinkakuji Jinkakuji is an ancient temple with a history of more than a thousand years. It sits on a ridge of columnar joints formed from welded tuff about 15 million years ago, giving it excellent views and making it a strategic stronghold in past conflicts. The temple grounds are planted with many rhododendrons and attract many visitors during the season. Access to central Bungo Ono City About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu

Ubuyama's Connecting Rice Fields Rice Planting Experience The Fan Terraced Rice Fields in Ubuyama Village, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture, are made by clearing eroded land in the mountains and are created in a contour shape by taking advantage of the fan-shaped terrain. The Water for the Paddy Field is directly derived from the Famous water Yamabuki Water source 1,300 Meter upstream, Water Clear streams that can also be Use as a beverage Water. Although there are difficulties in maintenance and management due to water water leaks, disasters, etc., since most of them are earthen water channels, we Cultivation Rice with a unique taste due to high-quality red clay born from nature and weather with temperature differences. It has been selected as one of the 100 best rice terraces in Japan and one of the 100 best Rice growers. Interested parties who are interested in growing delicious Rice in Ubuyama Village, why don't you experience it with the farmers who manage Ogida throughout the year? Rice can be purchased after harvest. Let's make the Rice we eat every day with our activities to pass on beautiful Nature to future generations! You can experience everything from rice planting to rice harvesting, which is planned later. 【Recruiting Participants】 2025-05-17 (Sat) Meet at 8:45 and start at 9:00 Meeting place: Ogi Terraced Observation decks We clean the water channel from the Yamabuki Water source that streams into Ogita. Please come in clothes that allow you to work. * Lunch box fee and leisure insurance fee are included in the participation fee. Participation fee: 1000 yen ■Click here to apply 〒869-2703 Kumamoto Prefecture Aso District Ubuyama Yamaga 468-4 0967-25-2200 *The deadline is Friday, May 9th. #Kumamoto #Rice Terraces #Ubuyama #Rice planting experience #Rice harvesting experience #Rice making #Aso District #Fan Terraced Rice Fields

🌸 Gokase Hanami 2025 — Featured Photos, No. 9 🌸 We’re wrapping up the introductions to the entries submitted to “#Gokase Hanami 2025” on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account, with just one more installment to go 🥹 Thank you for so many wonderful submissions 👏✨ @8215dr72 @920cherry71 @omilove.1203 (in no particular order) We received breathtakingly beautiful photos that make you sigh 🥺💕 Many photos feature Josenji, but we also loved fresh perspectives such as shots of the cherry-tree-lined road taken from afar and weeping cherry trees reflected in car windows — truly lovely 😳💫 Yesterday we announced that Akebono azaleas and rhododendrons are at their best 💡 With the weather not looking great today or tomorrow, we worry they may not last, so if you can, please take photos and submit them to “#Gokase Hanami 2025” 🤗✨ -------------------------------------------------------------------- How to Enter “#Gokase Hanami 2025” Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account, then post photos of flowers taken within Gokasecho on Instagram with two hashtags: #Gokase Hanami 2025 and #Date of shooting (for example: #March 20) 🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... Period: Thursday, March 20, 2025 to Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️ Additional rules are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Please read them carefully before entering. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️ Please take great care to avoid accidents while photographing.

[Amakusa Sea Sunset Cruising ⛴️🌆] Individual Sailings Now Available! Enjoy the Amakusa Sea sunset from onboard with the “Amakusa Sea Sunset Cruising,” running for individual customers on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month in April and May. Board Reihoku Kanko Kisen’s Kizuna III at Tomioka Port and head west along the Tomioka Peninsula for an approximately one-hour cruise to watch the sun sink into the sea and experience the magic hour. ⛴️Fare (per person) Adult (junior high school students and older) ¥3,000 Child ¥1,500 ⛴️Meeting point Tomioka Port Passenger Waiting Area (Kizuna Station) *Please arrive at least 15 minutes before departure.* ⛴️Operating dates (approximate departure times) [April] 12th, 26th (6:00 PM) [May] 10th, 24th (6:20 PM) Reservations This cruise requires advance reservation. Please call Reihoku Kanko Kisen Co., Ltd., the operator, to book directly. ⚠️Notes Please understand that sailings may be canceled or the sunset may not be visible due to bad weather, strong winds, or high waves. ⛴️Contact Reihoku Kanko Kisen Co., Ltd. Tel: 0960-35-0705 (Hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM) For more details, please visit the Amakusa Reihoku Tourist Association website. 👉 Check the link in this account’s profile!

Handmade Sendan Cutting Board This cutting board is made by the Morotsuka Village Forestry Research Group, known simply as Rinken. Rinken includes forestry workers and farmers who grow shiitake log trees themselves. Each piece carries the warm, handmade feel of the wood itself. You’ll notice beautiful grain and an amber sheen from the walnut oil finish. Use it to chop ingredients, then bring it straight to the table as a serving plate to brighten your meal — a truly versatile item. The material used is sendan wood. Morotsuka Village plants many cedar and cypress for building materials and konogi (sawtooth oak) for shiitake logs, so why choose sendan? The answer lies in sendan’s potential. While cedar can take 40 to 60 years to mature, sendan grows fast enough to be harvested in about 20 years. It also absorbs six times more CO2 than cedar during growth. Sendan is strong and easy to work with, and if it grows straight it becomes an ideal timber. Spotting sendan’s promise were members of the Fukuoka–Okawa Furniture Association, a cooperative in Fukuoka Prefecture. They not only make sendan furniture but also plant sendan trees in various locations. They visited Morotsuka Village through those planting efforts and forged a relationship with Rinken. Sendan furniture looks to the future and the environment. Why not try it in your home? Each small-size board varies in width, and designs range from classic to uniquely styled pieces. You’ll enjoy the excitement of opening it for the first time. ★You can purchase a handmade sendan cutting board from the Morotsuka Village Tourism Association (Shiitake no Yakata 21) or Morotsuka Store (online shop).🤗

[🌸 Gokase Hanami 2025 Photo Submissions — No. 8 — 🌸] Lately, the Gokase Tourism Association has been featuring entries to the “#Gokase Hanami 2025” on its Instagram account, and only a few submissions remain to be showcased at this stage 😳 @taniyan1119 @tm21mt @tourism09wine @yaaaaaa.85 @naoki_photo.graphy @naomin168 @kurota_kurohei (In no particular order) Mixed in with Josenji Temple and the Harada family’s site, we received many heartwarming shots of local weeping cherry trees, adorable pet dogs, and bright red boke (flowering quince) berries ☺️💕 Thank you all so much for the many submissions ✨ We’re still accepting entries, so feel free to post your photos anytime 🤗 -------------------------------------------------------------------- ≪#How to Enter #Gokase Hanami 2025≫ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account and post a photo of flowers taken within Gokasecho. Add the two hashtags #Gokase Hanami 2025 and #the shooting date (for example: #March 20) to your Instagram post 🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... Period: From Thursday, March 20, 2025 until Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️ Other rules are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Please read them before submitting. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️Please take great care to avoid accidents while photographing.

Yamaga Lantern Folk Craft Museum celebrates its 100th anniversary. The Yamaga Lantern Folk Craft Museum was built in 1925 as the former Yasuda Bank, Yamaga Branch, and this year marks exactly 100 years since its construction. It was the first reinforced concrete building in Yamaga, and this historic structure features Ionic-style exterior elements and a variety of decorative details and distinctive features throughout. After serving as the Higo Bank, Yamaga Branch, it is now registered as a national Tangible Cultural Property and serves as a hub for sharing the appeal of traditional crafts, especially the Yamaga lanterns. At the Yamaga Lantern Folk Craft Museum, many masterpieces of Yamaga lanterns are on display. Take your time to enjoy the world of Yamaga lanterns, a symbol of the city.

[🌸Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 Entry Photo Showcase – Part 7–🌸] We continue to share entries submitted to the "#Gokase Flower Viewing 2025" held on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account🤗🌟 @sokoatari.urouro This collection captures many expressions of the weeping cherry tree at Josenji Temple😳✨Daytime, nighttime, from far, from near, from below… each perspective brings a totally different feel, and it’s fascinating👏! We won’t post tomorrow, but we still have many entries to show, so please stay tuned a little longer☺️🙏 -------------------------------------------------------------------- ≪#How to Enter #Gokase Flower Viewing 2025≫ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account, then post photos of flowers taken within Gokasecho on Instagram with the two hashtags #Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 and #date of shooting (example: #March 20)🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... [Period] From Thursday, March 20, 2025 to Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️Other terms are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Be sure to read them before entering. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️Please take great care to avoid accidents while photographing.

Botan cherry blossoms at Eboshi Park ❚ Bloom status as of April 17, 2025 The botan cherry blossoms at Eboshi Park in Oono, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. They are now about 70% in bloom. Blossoming is progressing. Blooming is likely to advance further over the weekend. [Location] Eboshi Park (Oono, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture) ▶ Parking available ▶ Restroom available (temporary) ▶ Access: about a 15-minute drive from Roadside Station Oono ❚ Eboshi Park The park was created within the precincts of Josui-ji Temple on Mt. Eboshidake. It is a famous spot for botan cherry blossoms, with about 500 trees in full bloom. ■■■ 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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Kyushu, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250418spot-oono-2/...

[🌸 Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 — Featured Entries, No. 6 🌸] It’s finally starting to get truly warm here. ☀️ Today we continue showcasing works entered in the “#Gokase Flower Viewing 2025” contest on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account. 💪💡 @smail_barm @taka_gr86rz @takataka0129 @thusandleavis (in no particular order) We received submissions of weeping cherry blossoms from Josenji, the Harada family, and Kijiya. 🌸✨ There’s also a photo of the cherry tree at Koshouji at the foot of Gokase Winery — it’s huge! 😳 What kind of entries will appear tomorrow? 🤗 Stay tuned!! The photo contest is still open for submissions. 🌟 Spring in Gokase isn’t just about cherry blossoms — please photograph various flowers and enter! 🥳 -------------------------------------------------------------------- [How to Enter the #Gokase Flower Viewing 2025] Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account, then post photos of flowers taken within Gokasecho on Instagram with the two hashtags #Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 and #date of shooting (for example: #March 20). 🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... [Period] From Thursday, March 20, 2025 through Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️ Other terms are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Please be sure to read them before entering. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️ Please take great care to avoid accidents while photographing.

[40th MtMorotsukayama Opening Commemoration “Special Project” — Two Contests Now Accepting Entries!] From Sunday, March 9 to Friday, December 5, we are holding two contests: the “MtMorotsukayama Photo Contest” and the “Pennant Design Contest.” Visit MtMorotsukayama and try capturing beautiful photos📷. ◆◇◆ MtMorotsukayama Photo Contest ◆◇◆ Spring brings blooming akebono azaleas🌸, summer brings refreshing breezes🍃, autumn showcases brilliant foliage🍂, and winter brings snow-capped peaks⛄ and rime ice. Which MtMorotsukayama do you love? Cherished as the site of the Tenson Korin (descent of the heavenly grandchild), a mountain of shugendo practice, and a place of devotion, MtMorotsukayama remains accessible even to beginner hikers. We look forward to your special photos📷 taken on MtMorotsukayama. Winning entries may be used as PR materials for next year’s mountain opening.♪ How to Enter 1) General Category Please check the Morotsuka Navi website → Kaze no Tayori → [40th MtMorotsukayama Opening Commemoration “Special Project” — Two Contests Now Accepting Entries]. 2) Instagram Category Follow the Morotsuka Village Tourism Association account “Morotsuka Daily Calendar @morotsuka.tourism” on Instagram and post with the tag #MtMorotsukayama Photo Contest 2025. If you unfollow, we will not be able to contact you to deliver prizes, so please be careful. Winners may later be asked to provide high-resolution image files. Notes - If the subject of a photo is a person, obtain the subject’s permission for portrait rights. - Copyright for submitted works belongs to the organizer and may be used for village PR activities. - You may submit multiple entries, but only one winning entry per person is allowed. - Winning entries may be requested later in large original file size. -*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*- ◆◇◆ Pennant Design Contest ◆◇◆ This is a cherished tradition of the MtMorotsukayama opening! Participants receive a wooden🌳 pennant as a gift🎁. For the first five editions up to the 40th, we offered the “Flowers of Morotsuka🌸 series.” From the 41st anniversary, we’re refreshing the design✨ The grand prize winner’s design will be adopted for mountain opening pennants from the following year onward. The only requirement is to use wood🌳 as the material. Design, shape, and color are all free! We welcome your fun and creative ideas💡♪ How to Enter 1) Web Please check the Morotsuka Navi website → Kaze no Tayori → [40th MtMorotsukayama Opening Commemoration “Special Project” — Two Contests Now Accepting Entries]. 2) By Mail Write your name, address, phone number, email address, and the title of your work, then mail your design drawing to the address below. Designs sent cannot be returned. Mailing Address 3068 Kajiwara, Morotsuka Village, Higashiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture 883-1301 Shiitake no Yakata 21 Attn: Pennant Contest Office Notes - Copyright for submitted works belongs to the organizer and may be used for village PR activities. - You may submit multiple entries, but only one winning entry per person is allowed. Winners will be entered into a drawing to receive wonderful prizes🎁✨ We look forward to many entries!!!

【🌸Gokase Hanami 2025 — Featured Photos, No.5🌸】 We continue to steadily showcase works submitted to the Gokase Hanami 2025 contest currently running on the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account 🥳 @reoron001219 @sakai_0808 @sayasyoto (in no particular order) We received many photos of weeping cherry trees set against clear blue skies 🌸✨ Everyone’s framing is truly brilliant… we’re always amazed, wondering how they captured such scenes from any angle 😳👏 Although akebono azaleas and rhododendrons aren’t fully in bloom yet, they’re starting to open little by little 🤗 The photo contest runs until Sunday, May 11, so please keep those entries coming 🎶 -------------------------------------------------------------------- ≪How to Enter Gokase Hanami 2025≫ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account, then post photos of flowers taken within Gokasecho on Instagram with two hashtags: #Gokase Hanami 2025 and #shooting date (example: #March 20) 🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... Period: Thursday, March 20, 2025 to Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️Other terms are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Be sure to read them before applying. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️Please take care to avoid accidents while shooting photos.

[Event Information] The Kyushu Three Great Spring Festivals “Odaishi-san” returns this year! 📆 Friday, April 18th–Sunday, April 20th, 2025 📍 Imayama Daishi (3998 Yamashita-cho 2-chome, Nobeoka City) 🚶‍♂️ 15 minutes on foot from Nobeoka Station 📞 Inquiries: Imayama Daishi Sponsorship Association (inside Nobeoka Chamber of Commerce and Industry) 0982-33-6666 ーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーー 🚗 Parking Information 🚗 If you are coming by car, please use the Furukawa Riverside Free Parking Lot (capacity about 400 cars). From this parking lot to the Nobeoka Station West Exit highway bus stop, a free shuttle bus is available! [Operation Hours] Saturday the 19th: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sunday the 20th: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM Also, from the Imayama Daishi east approach, a shuttle taxi (¥200 per person) is convenient for getting to Imayama Daishi! [Operation Hours] Friday the 18th, Saturday the 19th, Sunday the 20th: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM ーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーー This festival, filled with the prayers of the historic Kobo Daishi and the passion of local people, is a treasured tradition. On the final day, the daimyo procession parade brings the streets to life with spectacular costumes! Enjoy the unique hospitality and crafted displays that make Odaishi-san special! This year too, come and enjoy Odaishi-san with your family and friends✨ *For details, please see the Imayama Daishi website.* https://www.imayamadaisi.com//

[Certified as a Fukuoka Cycle Gateway! ] 】 Fukuoka Prefecture is promoting the "Fukuoka Cycle Spot Project" to improve the convenience of tourists by car and to maintenance a comfortable cycling environment. Okagaki Town Tourism Association and Rinrin Club Okagaki have been certified as "Fukuoka Prefecture Cycle Gateway"! !️👏 ・ I am in the bicycle rental business. ・Use showers, coin lockers, and changing rooms ・ Rotary Car repair tools and repair kits are available for rent. ・ There is a sale of food and drink. There are conditions such as: We are waiting for you to provide a comfortable environment for cyclers. Please Use 🚲 it #Okagaki Town #Okagaki Town Tourism Association #Hatsu Coast #Rinrin Club Okagaki #Bicycle Rental #Seaside Cycling #Fukuoka Cycle Gateway #Hatsuten

【🌸 Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 — Featured Submissions, Part 4 🌸】 We are continuing to showcase works submitted to the Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 event, which is currently running on the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account. Today we bring you more entries every day🌟 @fowafuwarin5 @gokase_pan @hisabou1958 @kickcamp_with_jimny @landscape133_22 @madame.rururu (in no particular order) This time there are many night cherry blossom photos from Kijiya🌸🌙 We are very pleased to see Josenji and the Harada family’s weeping cherry trees captured from so many perspectives☺️💕 There are also striking shots of the red-and-white camellias blooming at the base of Josenji’s cherry trees✨It’s delightful to enjoy the charm of various flowers🎶 We are still accepting submissions, so please send yours in abundance🤗✨ -------------------------------------------------------------------- ≪How to enter Gokase Flower Viewing 2025≫ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account and post photos of flowers taken within Gokasecho on Instagram with two hashtags: Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 and the photo date (for example: March 20).🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... Period: Thursday, March 20, 2025 to Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️ Other rules are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Please be sure to read them before applying. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️ Please take care to avoid accidents while photographing.

Morotsuka-yama Keiryū no Sato Among the two campgrounds in the village, one is this Morotsuka-yama Keiryū no Sato (Morotsuka Mountain Stream Village). This nature-rich campground sits beneath Mt. Morotsuka, one of Kyushu’s 100 famous mountains. In spring, you can admire groves of Akebono azaleas about a 2–3 minute walk from the west trailhead of Mt. Morotsuka. Directly below the log cabins lies a riverside park adjacent to a valley with plentiful water. In summer, you can enjoy playing in the stream and fishing (a fishing permit is required). The campground features three five-person log cabins made from Morotsuka timber and a free campsite limited to three groups per day. It’s recommended for those who want a relaxed, peaceful camping experience.

The season has come again for carp streamers to flutter over Iwamoto Bridge! Iwamoto Bridge, a designated Important Cultural Property of Kumamoto Prefecture, measures 32 m in length and 4 m in width. This rare stone arch bridge was built in the Edo period by double-stacking cut rock from Aso gyotan-ishi. It spans the Sekigawa River on the border between Arao City and Omuta City and is affectionately known locally as an eyeglass bridge. The chrysanthemum crest carved in relief on the west-facing exterior is famous. It is said to be the work of Hashimoto Kangoro, a master builder from Yatsushiro who constructed many renowned bridges in the early Meiji era, including the Nijubashi at the Imperial Palace. The bridge is well preserved and you can walk across it. Raising date: Saturday, April 5 (If it rains, the event will be postponed by one week) Period: Saturday, April 5 to mid-May Location: Iwamoto Bridge 182-2 Kamiede, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture 864-0013

Tenkuu no Mori Ikenokubo Green Park Perched at about 800 meters above sea level in nature-rich Morotsuka Village, Tenkuu no Mori Ikenokubo Green Park features log houses and a campsite. The road from the Hyuga direction is a single lane one-way for much of the route, so drivers who are not used to mountain roads can feel at ease. The park offers an athletic course, grass skiing, and putter golf, so families with young children can all enjoy it together 😆. A scenic cross-country course nearby makes it perfect for a leisurely walk while soaking in nature 🍃. The popular Akimasa Observatory, known for its spectacular views ✨, is about a five-minute drive. Getting up early to watch the sunrise is recommended, and with luck you might even see a sea of clouds. Enjoy spring when flowers bloom 🌸, summer greenery and the coolness of higher elevations 🌳, fiery autumn foliage 🍂, and quiet winter with drifting snow ⛄. It’s a place to savor the ever-changing seasonal scenery and relax in nature. The village has two campsites, and Ikenokubo Green Park is one of them.

🌸 Gokase Cherry Blossom Photos 2025 — Featured Entries #3 🌸 We’re continuing our daily showcase of works submitted to the Gokase Cherry Blossom 2025 contest on the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account. @bluesea12067 @code_name_cross_fire We received a wonderfully diverse set of entries.🤩 Scenes include the spring mountains and historic buildings tucked deep in Kuwanouchi, a moss-and-cherry blossom pairing, and cherry trees framed from a winery-style hall.🤗 Everyone enjoys hanami in their own way, and it’s such fun to see the variety.😆💕 Thank you to everyone who entered.🙇‍♀️ We’re still accepting submissions, so please capture your own way of enjoying hanami and enter the contest.🤗✨ -------------------------------------------------------------------- How to Enter Gokase Cherry Blossom 2025 Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account, then post photos of flowers taken in Gokasecho on Instagram with two hashtags: #GokaseCherryBlossom2025 and #date of shooting (for example: #March 20).🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... Period: Thursday, March 20, 2025 to Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️ Other rules are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Please be sure to read them before applying. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️Please take care to avoid accidents while shooting photos.

Today's rain will completely end the cherry blossoms. This year, the temperature was low, and I was able to enjoy the cherry blossoms for a long time. Okagaki Town has a Famous landmarks There are of many cherry blossoms, especially the approach to the temple of Mt. Narita, where about 500 cherry blossoms are lined up, and they are Light up at night and are very beautiful. Even if you couldn't see it this year, please come to Okagaki Town next Spring to see the cherry blossoms.

The mountain climbing season has arrived. Kuranodake, located in Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, offers trails for beginners through advanced hikers. It is a mountain that even small children can enjoy. From the summit you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama, and a big appeal is that you can easily challenge yourself starting from the 9th station. The elevation is 1,118 m. It was selected as one of the Top 100 Walking Trails in Japan. It sits at the western end of the Aso outer rim, and the name comes from its saddle-like shape. Following the northeast ridge of Kuranodake leads to peaks such as Mount Tsumushi (1,064 m), and some hikers aim for them from Kuranodake’s summit. The mountain hosts many alpine plants and bird species. There are several routes up Kuranodake; for intermediate and advanced hikers there are the Forest Course and the Panorama Course. Beginners can drive up to the 9th station and start from the East Trailhead Course. With routes of varying difficulty, many families hike together. From the summit you can see the Kuju Mountain Range, the Five Peaks of Aso, Mt. Kimpō, and Unzen. Many people bring a packed lunch or coffee to enjoy on the hike. Before hiking, pick up maps and information at Shiki no Sato in Asahishi-Fumoto, Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, located at the trail entrance, and why not give it a try?

Arao’s food scene offers great variety! Families, friends, everyone will find plenty to enjoy! Arao’s dining ranges from specialty sushi restaurants, ramen shops, okonomiyaki and yakiniku spots to stylish cafes and restaurants, plus plentiful confectioneries and nighttime drinking establishments. After a full day of fun, relax at the spot you like. ~Kosen Dago Arao Main Store~ Sixty years of grilling flavor and heart. Genre Okonomiyaki Address 495 Shimoiide, Arao City Phone 0968-66-1911 Hours 11:00 – 21:00 (Last order 20:00) Closed Thursdays and during the New Year holidays Parking 30 spaces Official website http://www.kousendago.com/sub2.htm...

The 82nd Inukai Donko Fishing Tournament The Donko Fishing Tournament in Inukai Town, which began in 1929 (Showa 4), now marks its 82nd edition this year and has become widely known as the town of Donko. This year’s event includes attractions designed to delight the children, who are the stars of the day. Please join us for a Donko Fishing Tournament full of fun. Date and Time Sunday, May 11, 2025 Donko fishing registration starts / 8:30–10:30 Registration location / Tournament venue entrance Location Downstream of Inukai Ohashi Bridge (National Route 10 side) Kuhara, Inukai Town, Bungo-Ono City Entry Fee 500 yen per participant Bait included (first time only; additional bait 200 yen) Participation prize / child patch (for elementary school children and younger) * Fishing gear sets are available for rent (fee applies) * Payment of the entry fee grants access to the Treasure Hunt (for elementary school children and younger), weighing and judging for the Donko Fishing Tournament, and the fun prize lottery. Prizes Many prizes including 1st–3rd place, biggest fish award, and special awards Schedule ■ 11:00–11:30 Treasure Hunt Children will be divided into three groups (under elementary school age; grades 1–3; grades 4–6). ■ 12:00–13:00 Weigh-in and judging registration ■ 13:15 (planned) Results announcement and awards ■ 13:30–14:00 Prize lottery with luxurious prizes Other Events ■ Food stalls 9:00– Plenty of delicious food. ■ Exciting Fishing 10:30– Fun even for very young children. Participation fee 200 yen Additional Information Event will proceed in light rain. * Even if the weather is fine on the day, the event will be canceled if the river is swollen. For safety, do not enter the water above knee level. Wear a life jacket when playing in the river. Young children must be accompanied by a guardian at all times. Event Inquiries Bungo-Ono City Inukai Branch Office Phone: 097-578-1111 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 Kyushu, Bungo-Ono City, Oita Prefecture Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Bungo-Ono City, Oita Prefecture

[🌸 Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 — Featured Photos Vol.2 🌸] We’re back with another big batch of entries to the “#Gokase Flower Viewing 2025” contest now running on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account. We’ll be sharing many of the submissions today.💪🌟 @1230fuukeinoturishi These nostalgic shots capture not only the classic weeping cherry at Josenji Temple but also everyday cherry blossom scenes from the Kuraoka area.🥺 The photographer’s sensibility that turns your eyes not only to the cherry trees but also to the charming mountain flowers is something to admire and learn from…🙏✨ We’ll be featuring entries every day for a while, so please stay with us.🙇‍♀️ -------------------------------------------------------------------- ≪#How to Enter: Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 ≫ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account and post photos of flowers taken within Gokasecho. Add the two hashtags #Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 and #date of shooting (for example: #March 20) to your Instagram post. 🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... [Period] From Thursday, March 20, 2025 through Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️ Other rules are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Please be sure to read them before entering. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️ Please take full care to avoid accidents when photographing.

[🌸 Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 — Featured Submissions, Part 1 🌸] We are sharing entries submitted to the Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 contest currently running on the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account.🫡✨ So many lovely entries arrived, and we’ll be showcasing them one after another.👏 @_yuta610 @a2o_yoshino @aaatkt6 (in no particular order) Photos feature the cherry blossoms at Josenji, the Harada family residence, Kijiya, and Mikasho Shrine.💡 The daytime blossoms and the night cherry trees are both truly beautiful.🥹💕 -------------------------------------------------------------------- ≪How to Enter the Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 Contest≫ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account, then post photos of flowers taken within Gokasecho on Instagram with the two hashtags: Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 and the shooting date (for example: March 20).🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... [Period] From Thursday, March 20, 2025, through Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️ Other terms are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Be sure to read them before applying. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️Please take great care to avoid accidents while shooting photos.