[🌸 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.

Guide to the Manda Pit Multilingual Guide System 💁‍♀️✨ At Manda Pit, you can use a multilingual guide system as well as Japanese. Scan the QR code in the image or visit here → http://www.mandako.jp// to use the system! #Kumamoto #Arao #Manda Pit #mandako #MiikeCoalMine #MandaPit

How do you do! This is the Okagaki Town Tourism Association. Okagaki Town, Enga District, Fukuoka Prefecture, is located almost halfway between Fukuoka City and Kitakyushu City, and is a town rich in Rich in nature facing the Genkai Sea. While it is close to the city, it is packed with a variety of "charms of Okagaki Town" where you can enjoy the beautiful Nature scenery of the Four Seasons. It is blessed with a rich Nature environment such as the sea and mountains, and is rich in blessings such as Agricultural Products and seafood. It has gained popularity in recent years because you can enjoy attractions, gourmet food, and outdoor experiences such as seaside Barbecue and Bathing in the sea. In our "Okagaki Town Tourism Association" Account, we will Broadcasting Recommendations so that you can enjoy a Fully Equipped trip in Okagaki Town, so thank you. 【Access to Okagaki Town, Enga District, Fukuoka Prefecture】 ■Use public transportation from Fukuoka Airport 1. From Fukuoka Airport, take the subway or bus to Hakata Station. 2. From Hakata Station, take the JR Kagoshima Main Line and Get off at "Ebitsu Station". 3,From Ebitsu Station, you can use buses and Taxi to various places in the In the town. It takes about 1 hour ~ 1 hour and 30 minutes. It can be visited relatively smoothly even from a distance. ■ Car from the Hakata area Use ・ Routes to Kitakyushu via National Route No. 3, Kyushu Expressway, and urban expressway are convenient. Depending on traffic congestion, it can be accessed from Fukuoka City in about 1 hour. [What kind of town is Okagaki Town?] 】 Okagaki Town has a population of about 30,000 (2025) and is the most populous town in Toga District. Due to its location on the Genkai Sea, Local people are engaged in conservation activities and Coast sea turtles come ashore to lay eggs. In addition, since there is a possibility of landfall from late May to August every year, observation tours and awareness-raising events may be held depending on the season. In addition, in Okagaki Town, when the air is clear in early summer (every year around late May ~ June), "Okagaki Fireflies" dance fantastically, delighting many tourists and local residents. [Historical background of Okagaki Town, Toga District, Fukuoka Prefecture] It has been a land where agriculture has flourished since ancient times, and ports have developed along the Coast to support trade and people's lives. In the Edo period, it prospered as an important places for transportation connecting Kitakyushu and Fukuoka, and cultural properties such as shrines and temples and local industries unique to port cities developed. Even today, there are many historical sites and traditional events, and you can feel the faces of that time while strolling around. 【Popular Sightseeing spots in Okagaki Town, Onga District, Fukuoka Prefecture】 There are many attractive "attractions" in Okagaki Town. Highlights such as the rich Nature environment of the sea and mountains and cultural properties are a lot of. This time, we will introduce some of the Spots recommended by the "Okagaki Town Tourism Association". ■ Food Education Experience Farm Hokkori Farm It is a popular hands-on farm where you can learn about agricultural work while interacting with Nature. Adult and children can enjoy harvesting vegetables and making sausages according to the season. The staff will guide you carefully, so even beginners in agriculture can rest assured. It is a food education program using Fresh vegetables, and it is a fulfilling outdoor experience Spot that allows you to realize the importance of food and the Gari of connecting with Nature. ■Fukujozan Kaizo-ji Temple Kaizo-ji Temple is one of the ancient temples in Okagaki In the town, and was founded around 1320. Many people visit for the historic Buddha statues and architecture, and the calming atmosphere is attractive. ■Naritasan Fudo Temple Mt. Narita, which sits on a high ground of 200 Meter Elevation in Okagaki Town, is known for its vast Precincts and Powerful Presence Main Hall. It is a Temple that was opened by welcoming a Fudo Myoo from the daihonzan Naritasan Shinkatsu Temple of the Shingon sect of the Chizan sect in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture. From the Precincts, you can overlook the townscape of Okagaki Town and Genkai Sea, making it perfect for photography. ■Hatsu Fishing Port Fresh seafood from Genkai Sea is gathered at the fishing port, and Direct sales of seafood and seafood Shokudo are also lined up. If you take a walk and look at the scenery of the fishing port, you can feel the relationship between the lives of the townspeople and the sea. ■Mt. Yugawa Mt. Yukawa, with an elevation of about 470 meters, is a course that is easy to walk with convenient transportation, so even beginners can enjoy it. The Mountain Trail is maintained and safe. From the top of the mountain, you can overlook the Genkai Sea and the Toga Plain, and on a clear day, you can Unfolds breathtaking views. Spot recommended for those who want to try outdoor experiences while enjoying forest bathing. ■ Yuureizaka At first glance, it is an ordinary Slope on the road to Naritasan Fudo Temple, but it is a hot topic due to the mysterious phenomenon that if you put an empty can on this slope, it will go up the slope by itself. It is a famous mystery Spot that has often been featured in the mass media such as TV as "Yuureizaka". ■Konpira-san It is a 140-Meter-high mountain where the Kinbira Shrine, which is revered as the guardian of Okagaki Town, is located, and on the way to the summit, lush green trees grow and you can feel the breath of Nature. ■ Four Seasons Market Yappa ~ Okagaki Direct sales with Locally produced fresh vegetables, fruits, and processed goods. Seasonal ingredients are available at low prices, so many people Visit from outside the In the town. Agricultural products unique to Okagaki Town, such as Takakura Biwa and Kampo Kyoho grapes, are also attractive. Souvenirs and ingredients to add color to your home dining table are perfect for this cozy market, where you can enjoy interacting with local producers. 【Specialty products Gourmet of Okagaki Town, Enga District, Fukuoka Prefecture】 The "Specialty products" nurtured by the rich nature of Okagaki Town are packed with the charm that is indispensable for the Local dining table. Representative Gourmet food is introduced here. ■ Takakura Biwa Cultivated in the Takakura region, loquat is characterized by its tender flesh and juicy sweetness. Blessed with sea breezes and a warm climate, the Aroma is exceptional. During the harvest season, Local Direct sales are the center of the lineup, and the freshest loquats are lined up. ■Kyoho grapes It is a grape of Okagaki Original that incorporates Fertilizer and Cultivation methods derived from Chinese medicine in Kyoho grapes Raised nutrient-rich soil. It is characterized by its large fruit and strong sweetness, and is Popular for gifts and home use. You can enjoy a rich taste that is a little different from other grapes. ■ Authentic shochu "Okagaki" Local shochu is made from potatoes harvested locally. It is characterized by a mellow aroma and a refreshing aftertaste, and goes well with Meals. It is a Gastronomical delicacies where you can easily enjoy the taste of Okagaki Town. These Specialty products Gourmet are also popular as Furusato Nozei thank-you gift There are. 【Events and Festivals in Okagaki Town, Enga District, Fukuoka Prefecture】 In Okagaki Town, where local ties are Richly preserved, various Events and Festivals are held in throughout the year. One of the Representatives is the "Matsuri Okagaki" held every autumn. With the Okagaki Sunry Eye Fureai Plaza as the Main Venue, it is crowded with 20,000 visitors. Performances on stage and booths selling Specialty products are all gathered in one place, and many smiles are overflowing. 【Okagaki Town Tourist Information】 Okagaki Town, Enga District, Fukuoka Prefecture, is surrounded by the sea and mountains rich in Rich in nature, and is a town that continues to Broadcasting new charms while valuing tradition and history. Access is also good, and you can enjoy a day trip from Fukuoka City and Kitakyushu City. Cool Japan will Broadcasting Recommendations of Okagaki Town, so please follow us.

🌳2025 Yama School Registration Starts 🌳 "Yama school" means to pretend to go to school and play in the mountains. Even a little earlier than now, when it took me an hour or two to walk to school, It doesn't change the fact that children like to play. We walk through the mountains and rivers to school, which is an ordinary playground full of charm. It's easy to lose track of time chasing birds 🕊️ and finding delicious grass 🌱. At such a time, at school "He's a dumpster, isn't he?" (Why doesn't he come?) (Isn't he playing in Squid mountains?) What a conversation was exchanged. In the old days, everyone experienced it! It will be a ✨ pleasant memory The eco-tour "Let's go to Yama School in Morotsuka!" is inspired by such a mountain school. It is a trip that touches on the rich Nature 🍃 as it is and the way of life of the people who live there. Experience life in the forest, which has been certified as a World Agricultural Heritage Site, using your mind and body to the fullest. Why don't you go on a trip unique to Morotsuka? 【2025 8 Courses】 🌸 Spring Hand-picked and hand-kneaded Traditional Japanese straw raincoat traditional kama-roasted tea making: Saturday, May 10 🍃 Summer Go to meet the "flower that gets happiness" KiRenge Shoma Climbing Kurodake in summer: Saturday, August 23 and Sunday, August 24 🍂 Autumn Get ahead of the taste of autumn! Chestnut picking: Sunday, September 4 🍂 Autumn: Summer Vegetable Harvesting and Pizza Making: Sunday, September 14 🍂 Autumn ground konjac making: Saturday, October 4 🍂 Autumn Yuzu Chigiri and Yuzu Gosho: Saturday, November 22 ⛄ Winter: Harvesting seasonal raw wood shiitake mushrooms and making shiitake mushroom pizza: December 14 (Sun), 2026 (Reiwa 8) January 18 (Sun), February 14 (Sat) ⛄ Winter Tesuki Washi and edgeworthia chrysantha: 2026 (Reiwa 8)March 8 (Sun) ***************************************************************** * For details of the tour, please check [Morotsuka Navi].

Arao’s food scene is full of variety! Families and friends alike will find plenty of satisfying flavors to enjoy. From specialty sushi, ramen, okonomiyaki, and yakiniku restaurants to stylish cafes and dining spots, Arao also offers many confectioneries and nightlife venues. After a full day of fun, relax at the place you like. ~ Okonomiyaki Gen-chan ~ This restaurant serves both Kansai-style and Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. In Arao, we deliver free for orders of two or more. Genre Okonomiyaki Address 573-3 Miyauchi, Arao City Phone 0968-63-0588 Hours 11:00 – 15:00 (last order 14:30) 17:00 – 21:00 (last order 20:30) Closed Wednesdays (if a public holiday, the next day) Parking 10 spaces

Arao’s gourmet scene offers a rich variety! Families and friends alike will find plenty of flavors to satisfy everyone! Arao’s food scene ranges from specialty sushi, ramen, okonomiyaki, and yakiniku shops to chic cafes and restaurants, plus many confectioneries and nighttime drinking spots. After a full day of fun, enjoy a meal at your favorite place. ~Yamaguchi Unagi Restaurant~ The fragrant, grilled eel is superb. The skin is crisp, and the flesh is tender and fluffy. Genre Sushi and Japanese cuisine Address 6 Ban, Arao City Phone number 0968-62-0020 Business hours 11:30 – 13:30 16:00 – 19:00 Closed Tuesdays Parking 10 spaces Seating capacity 20 seats

【Donkotei】 A restaurant 🍽️ attached to the Village's Information Broadcasting Base "Shiitake-no-kan 21" You can enjoy 😋 the unique taste of Morotsuka using the fruits of Delicacies of the mountains in Four Seasons * Closed every Water and Sunday. [On the 7th and 8th of every month, the "Morotsuka Naba 🍄 Day" Events are being held in] Held in "Morotsuka Naba 🍄 Day" every month! ■What is Naba 🍄? ❔ In Morotsuka, shiitake mushrooms are called "naba". Specialty products sales office Morokko House makes dried mushrooms a great deal, Donko-tei provides services related to shiitake mushrooms ✨ If you like shiitake mushrooms, be sure to visit Morotsuka Village on the 7th and 8th!

Hidden Cherry Blossom Spots in Kuwanochi 🌸 Yesterday, Monday, April 7, the weather turned warm with a gentle breeze and clear skies☀️ It was truly a perfect day for hanami🌸🍡 When people think of cherry blossoms in Gokasecho, the Sanga area is especially famous, but Kuwanochi also hides some lesser-known blossom spots😌✨ Photos 1–3 show the cherry trees you see on the left just before you reach the top of the hill where the road from National Route 218 turns toward Yuhinosato Bridge and meets Prefectural Route 8📸 Two large, pale-pink cherry trees stand between tea fields and a vast blue sky stretching as far as the Aso caldera🌸 It’s the kind of serene satoyama landscape that takes your breath away🥹✨ This place seems to be a well-kept secret with many devoted fans🤭💕 Photos 4–5 show the cherry tree by a private house you’ll find right after descending the lane beside the fire station along Prefectural Route 8📸 A magnificent weeping cherry stands out against a carpet of rapeseed flowers at its feet and the bright blue sky behind it. It’s a vivid, springlike scene🤗✨ Beside it, vivid purple magnolia blooms in profusion, making this spot a joyful celebration of spring🤩 Finally, photos 6–8 show the cherry at Koshoji Temple📸 You have to view it from a bit of a distance to take in the whole tree — it’s very large😳✨ The pure white petals contrast beautifully with the red-and-white mottled camellias planted in front. The sight is stunning and powerful; this cherry tree is well worth a visit🙏💡 That brings us to the entrance of Kuwanochi and ends the cherry tree tour for now😌 Please tell us about your favorite cherry trees too✨ A note on the private houses I featured: these are private properties, so when viewing, please do not enter yards or make loud noises. Observe good manners to avoid bothering neighbors🙇‍♀️ Now, rain is forecast for this Thursday — will the blossoms be gone then? 🥲 It’s a little sad, but that fleeting beauty is part of their charm🫶 Cherry-blossom showers are poetic; let’s enjoy them to the fullest while they last🌸

🌸 Flowering Information 🌸 Cherry blossoms are in Best time to visit in various parts of Morotsuka Village. Many cherry blossoms bloom in Ikenokubo Green Park, and it is a cherry blossom viewing day. Please come and 😆 visit us

[🌸 Night Cherry Blossoms Around Gokasecho 🌙] The weeping cherry trees across town are now in full bloom, and their night-time beauty is not to be missed ✨ So, I’ll share the night cherry blossom photos I took on Sunday, April 6th 📸🤗 Josenji needs no introduction, and the weeping cherry at the Harada residence overwhelms you with its powerful presence 😳 It was a clear day, and the moonlight paired beautifully with the blossoms 🌙 The weeping cherries around Josenji’s bell were a little behind, but they bloomed fully and created an elegant scene 👏 Kijiya has finally reached its peak, and the night cherry blossoms reflected on the pond are stunning 🥹✨ Daytime sakura are wonderful, but a night cherry blossom tour is lovely too 😌🌸 Fewer people are around, so you can enjoy them at a relaxed pace 💡 The light-up schedule is as follows: Josenji’s weeping cherry until Sunday, April 13th, and Kijiya’s weeping cherry until Wednesday, April 16th 😊 Please be quiet when viewing at night, since these trees are near private homes 🤫 Also, dressing in dark colors can make you hard to see from cars at night. Wear noticeable colors like yellow or white or use reflectors to avoid accidents 🙏 These weeping cherries will likely treat us to their beauty for a little while longer 😊 Let’s enjoy them safely and courteously ✨ We have received many photos for our ongoing #Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 campaign on the association’s Instagram account (@gokae_kanko) — thank you so much 😭 Thank you 😭 We’re still accepting entries, so please do submit your photos — seriously, please!! 🙇‍♀️✨ https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/...

Full bloom of flowers 🌸 Today, Sunday, April 6, brought warm sunshine and a distinctly springlike atmosphere 🌞 The town’s flowers are now at their best ✨ The cherry blossoms and camellias at Mikasho Shrine are also at peak, drawing many visitors 😊 Traffic is heavy, so please take care when passing through!

Cherry Blossoms in Flight A week has passed since the bloom was announced in Kyushu, but full bloom still continues in Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture. The petals' centers have begun to turn red, so the blossoms will start falling soon. At Kikuchi Park in Kumuchi, Kikuchi County, roughly 3,000 cherry trees, including Somei-yoshino and yamazakura, are in full bloom. This year, many visitors, including those from overseas, are enjoying hanami. The Kangetsuro Observation Deck inside the park offers a superb view of Kikuchi Park's cherry blossoms and the city of Kikuchi. A promenade runs through the park, forming a tunnel of cherry trees. Even as the petals begin to fall, you can stroll through drifting blossoms. The park also has a “Love Bench,” where you can relax while viewing the cherry trees. A row of cherry trees lines the approach to Kikuchi Shrine, and walking under the canopy offers a beautiful contrast of blossoms against the blue sky. Every year the cherry trees bloom from mid-March through early April. The stage when petals start to fall also makes for wonderful photos and videos, so please come and visit.

【Specialty products sales office Morokko House】 Located along National Route 327, it is a warm shop that uses plenty of wood 🌳 from the village. The other day, the sign of the shop was ✨ renewed Gari When you come to play, please take a look 🥰 at the cute illustrations near you We sincerely deliver safe and secure Delicacies of the mountains 💖 harvested in Morotsuka Village. Morotsuka Village Souvenirs here! Speaking of "yuzu gosho" and "dressing" where you can choose the spiciness, Morotsuka Village! Not only "dried shiitake mushrooms", but also "raw shiitake mushrooms" are sold in the autumn ~ winter of the season. Of course, both are shiitake mushrooms 🍄 raised from raw wood! The deep-rooted popularity of "Nanatsuyama miso", "mugwort dango", and "handmade konjac". A little unusual shiitake mushroom cookie🍪 is also recommended ♪ as a souvenir For Ghibier lovers, venison and wild boar meat are also sold frozen! Every Friday, only a small amount is receiving > "Shiitake sushi" that can only be bought here. Fun vegetables and flowers 🌸 grown 🥬 in the Village are also exhibited every season, and you can enjoy seasonal foods and the taste of the high-temperature region unique to Morotsuka. There are also local shochu from two sake breweries in Morotsuka Village and handicrafts handmade by the village! Both are rare items that are not often found outside the Village.

Cherry Blossom Report: Ontakesan Sakura Road as of April 3, 2025 The cherry trees along the road on Mt. Ontake in Kiyokawamachi, Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture are at their best. They seem to be at their peak now, with some petals starting to fall in the wind. The views are excellent, making it a great drive. Location: Kiyokawamachi, Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture ■■■ 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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■ https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250403spot-kiyokawa/...

🌸 The weeping cherry trees at Josenji are now in bloom 🌸 In Gokasecho, the cooler-than-usual temperatures delayed the blossoms this year, but the weeping cherry at Josenji has now reached its peak viewing period 🤗✨ (It is not yet fully in bloom!) You should be able to enjoy the beautiful weeping cherry through the beginning of next week 🌸 The trees are also lit up after sunset, so please enjoy the night blossoms as well 👏✨ Please note that the Josenji illumination will end as soon as the peak viewing period passes 🙏 Expect heavy crowds, especially on weekends ⚠️ Follow the directions of traffic attendants around Josenji and take care when arriving by car 🚗 Nearby weeping cherries at the Harada residence and Kijiya are slowly coming into bloom as well, so enjoy them together 🫶 (And please consider entering photos you take in our association’s ongoing photo contest “#Gokase Hanami 2025” on Instagram 😘📸) https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/...

Arao’s gourmet scene offers rich variety! Families and friends alike will find plenty of dishes to leave everyone fully satisfied! From specialty sushi bars, ramen shops, okonomiyaki and yakiniku restaurants to chic cafés and dining venues, plus an abundance of confectioneries and nightlife spots, Arao serves up a diverse culinary lineup. After a day of fun, relax and enjoy your favorite place. ~Moranbon~ This restaurant serves black-haired wagyu beef graded 4 or higher. Their house-made kimchi also comes highly recommended. Genre Yakiniku (grilled meat) Address 65-3 Oshima, Arao City Phone 0968-64-1855 Business hours 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM (Last order 11:00 PM) Closed Wednesdays (except public holidays) Parking 15 spaces Capacity 60 people Official site https://www.arao-yakiniku.com//

Arao’s gourmet scene offers a rich variety! Families and friends alike will find plenty of flavors to satisfy everyone. From specialty sushi bars, ramen shops, okonomiyaki houses, and yakiniku restaurants to stylish cafes and dining spots, Arao also has an abundance of confectioneries and nighttime hangouts. After a full day of fun, enjoy a meal at your favorite place. ~ Ozeki Sushi (Oozeki Sushi) ~ You can dine pleasantly with family and friends at reasonable prices. Bento boxes are also popular. Genre Sushi · Japanese cuisine Address 2089-8 Kuraman, Arao City Phone 0968-68-2214 Hours 12:00–15:00 (last order 14:00) 17:00–21:00 (last order 20:00) Closed Tuesdays Parking 1 large vehicle · 15 regular spaces Seats 70 seats Official site https://susi-oozeki.jimdosite.com//

\The 10th AEON Kagoshima Fair Held in from today/ From today to the 6th, the "10th AEON Kagoshima Fair" is being Held in at AEON Lake Town mori in Koshigaya City, Saitama Prefecture! 📣 Starting with Kagoshima black beef, which became the No.1 in Japan Wagyu beef at the 12th National Wagyu Ability Co-Promotion Meeting, this fair brings together products that Kagoshima is proud of, such as safe, secure, and high-quality agricultural, forestry, and water products and specialty products. From Izumi City, we offer ✨ delicious specialty products such as seaweed seaweed introduced on TV the other day, tea, manhatsuru monaka, domestic bamboo shoots boiled in water and noodles, seasonings such as sashimi soy sauce, pork miso, Izumi Mandarin oranges mustard, and soft-boiled pork Nankotsu If you live nearby or happen to stop by, please take this opportunity to purchase Kagoshima's "Umakamon / Yokamon"! Date: April 2 (Water) – 6 (Sun), 2025 [Time] 9:30-19:30 (*Until 18:00 on the last day) 【Place】AEON Lake Town mori (#Koshigaya City, Saitama Prefecture) 　　　　1F Water Plaza, Passageway, Aeon Style Lake Town, etc. Contact: AEON Style Lake Town (TEL: 048-930-7000) https://www.aeon-laketown.jp/mori/event/event_e51613_as.html...

Gokase Sakura Project: Cherry Blossom Festival🌸 On Saturday, March 29 and Sunday, March 30, a cherry blossom festival took place around the weeping cherry tree in Kijiya. This post shows scenes from Saturday, March 29. Despite the low temperatures, the morning brought sunshine, and the venue buzzed with a wide variety of food stalls and kitchen cars and many visitors. That evening, timed with the night illumination, members of Naniloa HULA studio performed a graceful hula dance. Although the stage was set under a cold sky, the dancers’ beaming smiles warmed everyone’s hearts. As of March 29, about 20–30% of the cherry trees were in bloom overall, so unfortunately they were not at full bloom. Still, the lights that the students of Miyazaki Prefectural Gokase Secondary School worked hard to install cast a gentle glow that made the venue beautiful even with fewer blossoms.

Arao’s food scene offers great variety! Families and friends alike will find plenty of delicious options to satisfy everyone. From specialty sushi bars, ramen shops, okonomiyaki and yakiniku restaurants to stylish cafes and dining spots, Arao also boasts many confectioneries and lively night-time drinking venues. After a full day of fun, relax and enjoy a meal at your favorite place. ~Kodaiko (Kodai-ko)~ The restaurant even has a live seafood tank, so you can enjoy fresh sushi and fish dishes. The seasonal majaku set meal is especially popular. Genre Sushi Address 1241-5 Nohara, Arao City Phone 0968-68-4622 Hours 11:00 – 14:30 17:00 – 21:30 Closed Tuesdays (subject to change on public holidays) Parking 20 spaces Capacity 50 people (including the second-floor banquet room)

Yachiyoza Theater Story ~Yamaga Lantern Dance Regular Performance~ "Yachiyoza Theater Story ~ Yamaga Lantern Dance Regular Performance" is a special program that includes a Visiting the site of the Yachiyoza Theater, a Meiji playhouse that is more than 100 years old, and Appreciation of the Yamaga Lantern Dance. The lantern dance seen in an extraordinary space that seems to have traveled back in time to the good old days is remarkably lustrous! Enjoy a luxurious time where you can experience the charm of Yamaga all at once! [Place] Yachiyoza Theater 【Held in】 Held in dates from the following URL. https://www.y-kankoukyoukai.com/sp_page01.php... 【Date and time】 Once a day, 10:30 a.m. (approx. 60 minutes) ・Screening of Nankyoku "The Story of the Birth and Reconstruction of the Yachiyoza Theater: Wasamon" (Nanikyoku Master Koyuki Minatoya) ・Yamaga lantern dance performance ・ Yachiyoza theater guide, commemorative photo with dancers 【Admission Fee】 Adult: 1,530 yen/person (Yachiyoza Theater admission fee + lantern dance appreciation fee 1,000 yen) Elementary and junior high school students: 770 yen/person (Yachiyoza Theater admission fee + lantern dance Appreciation fee 500 yen) * There is also a group discount (15 people or more) and a common admission ticket that includes admission to the Yachiyoza Theater and the Lantern Folk Art Museum. * Includes a shopping voucher that can be used at Yamaga shops 【Information】 ・ From 10:30 ~ 11:30, only customers who have an Appreciation ticket for Yachiyoza Theater Monogatari will be able to enter. ・ Visiting the site of the Yachiyoza Theater is possible even outside the date and time when the Yachiyoza Theater Story is held in. ・Held in date is subject to change. Thank you for your understanding. 【Inquiry】 Yamaga Hot Spring Tourism Association 0968-43-2952 Yachiyoza Theater 0968-44-4004 * If you are coming with more than 15 people, please make a reservation in advance. If you have less than 14 people, please come on the day without a reservation.

Marugoto Arao Product Center Marugoto Arao Product Center combines a product hall, a Shodai-yaki gallery, and an information hub. This shop offers proud local specialties made from Arao’s bounty, from nori seaweed harvested from the Ariake Sea and famous pears to Shodai-yaki pottery. Address: 169-22 Haramanda, Arao City (near Manda Pit) Opening hours: 11:00–16:30 Closed: Monday (if Monday is a public holiday, closed the following day) Phone: 0968-57-9960 Parking: Free Access 8 minutes by bus from JR Arao Station Get off at Manda Pit-mae; immediate access https://arao-kankou.jp/sightseeing/specialty/...

Introduction to a Japanese Sword Making Tour See traditional Japanese swordmaking up close! You can observe the ancient craft of swordsmithing up close at the Japanese Swordsmith Training Workshop of master swordsmith Genrokuro Matsunaga, who lives in Arao City. The technique follows a traditional process of repeatedly hammering, stretching, and folding the steel. You will surely be overwhelmed by the power and drama of watching it at close range. In addition, you can take part in a name-engraving experience, where you use a chisel to carve your name or a favorite phrase into a steel plate, as well as a sword-making experience, and you can view Mr. Matsunaga’s collection of swords, armor, and other items. Name Matsunaga Japanese Swordsmith Training Workshop Address 1907-8 Kawatari, Arao City Phone number 0968-68-2250 *Visits require a reservation. Please contact us for details.

Introducing accommodations in Arao! ~Stay in Arao~ Arao City offers a wide range of lodging, from a resort hotel next to an amusement park to convenient business hotels. Whether you need more than a day to play or are staying for business, we are fully prepared to welcome you. 6. HOTEL R9 The Yard Arao A unique stay in a container! Each guest room is an independent unit made from a single container in this business-style hotel. Free parking is available near the rooms, and each unit includes a unit bath, toilet, TV, microwave, and refrigerator with freezer. With easy access to industrial parks, tourist sites, and golf courses, it’s ideal as a base for business or leisure. Address 883-1 Manda, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture Phone number 0968-79-8725 Official website https://hotel-r9.jp/hotels/arao/...

Introducing accommodations in Arao! ~Stay in Arao~ Arao City offers a wide range of lodging, from a resort hotel next to an amusement park to budget-friendly business hotels. Whether you need more than a day of fun or are staying on business, we are fully prepared to welcome you. 5. HOTEL AZ Kumamoto Arao Branch Complimentary delicious breakfast for guests! This hotel serves both tourists and business travelers. With affordable rates and a free breakfast for guests, it has become popular. Clean, practical rooms all offer internet access. With an izakaya on site, it’s also recommended for those who want to relax in the evening. Address 958 Manda, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture Phone number 0968-65-3301 Official website https://www.az-hotel.com/arao/...

Today, the Yoshinomiya Shrine Grand Festival [Zato-san Festival] was held in! Enchanted 🥰 by the performance by Satsuma biwa player Kanako Kitahara This year's event went off without a hitch. It was blown by a strong wind from time to time, but everyone who gathered Thank you very much! #miyazaki #morotsukavillage #morotsuka #Miyazaki Prefecture #Morotsuka Village #Morotsuka Village Tourism Association #Collection of Shuin stamps #Miyazaki Shuin Stamps Tour #Yoshinomiya Shrine #Zato-san Festival

Introducing accommodation in Arao! ~Stay in Arao~ Arao City offers a wide range of lodging, from a resort hotel next to an amusement park to convenient business hotels for an easy overnight stay. Whether you need more than a day to enjoy the area or you are staying for business, we are fully prepared to welcome you. Noasobi Lodge An outdoor-style hotel just a one-minute walk from Arao Station♪ Born from a desire to create a hut-like stop in town where travelers can relax and get excited, Noasobi Lodge was opened. Under the theme of “noasobi,” we offer a space centered on lodging and dining where people can gather for work or private moments. Address 1560-1 Manda, Arao, Kumamoto Prefecture Phone 080-9547-4744 Official site https://noasobilodge.com//

Introducing accommodation in Arao! ~Stay in Arao~ Arao City offers a range of lodging, from a resort hotel next to an amusement park to affordable business hotels. Whether one day isn’t enough for play or you’re staying on business, we are fully prepared to welcome you. 3. Business Hotel Isuzuso Extremely convenient for both business and sightseeing! In addition to single and twin rooms, we also offer triple rooms and relaxing Japanese-style rooms. With convenience stores and restaurants nearby, it’s very handy. In the morning, we offer complimentary coffee to guests. All rooms have wireless LAN. Address 2-8-6 Yotsuyama-machi, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture Phone number 0968-63-2514 Official website http://www.business-hotel-isuzu.jp//

As of March 26, the cherry blossoms at Kikuchi Park are about 40% in bloom, and pale pink flowers have begun to color the whole park. The softly spreading cherry blossoms lift the spirits. Why not enjoy a spring moment as the trees grow more beautiful each day toward full bloom? Relaxed hanami awaits in the peaceful atmosphere of Kikuchi Park. At Kikuchi Park, the cherry trees are illuminated by paper lanterns from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM during the period from Sunday, March 16 through Saturday, April 5, letting visitors enjoy the night blossoms. On Sunday, March 30, the Kikuchi Sakura Marche will take place, with about 45 stalls expected to gather. For details, see https://x.gd/KbzJC...

Monday, March 24, 2025 At Futoria in Ubuyama Sustaina UBU Rare Plant Regeneration Events ♪ Implementation activities to pass on Aso's precious rare species to future generations.　 ✿〈Morning session〉10:00-13:00 Learning and sowing. (Higotai, Aso yarrow, Ominaeshi, Fujibakama, etc.) Maintenance of flower gardens. 〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜 ✿〈Afternoon Session〉 13:00-16:00 Open Farm 🌿 ★ Lives in Ubuyama@maaaasaaaaeeee Illustrator Masae's "My Cotton Pouch with Floral Pattern" Production Experience ♪ ★ Ubuyama Volunteers@noguchi_vanlife Noguchi's 10-minute Aroma Dry Head Spa Experience or Aroma Hand Treatment 10 minutes (Below the elbow to the palm of the hand, both hands) We will 🌿 use ORGAN's Aso Aroma (an eye mask with favorite Aroma from three Aroma) throughout the Course ★ Futoria in Ubuyama Eating flower picking experience