📢 Sakai Tourism Concierge Recommended✨
"🌿Experience history and culture at Sakai Risho no Mori!🌿"

📍Sakai Risho no Mori is a museum where you can experience the culture associated with Sen no Rikyu and Akiko Yosano.🔍 It’s full of attractions that delight both children and adults!

🔍Learn history with quizzes!
You can get closer to the lives of Sen no Rikyu and the history of Sakai through quiz-style learning.
Here you can enjoy learning with all five senses through exhibits and videos—things you won’t find in history textbooks.

🍵Experience the tea ceremony’s wabi-sabi spirit at a site linked to Sen no Rikyu!
Sakai is the hometown of Sen no Rikyu. In this place you can enjoy an authentic tea ceremony experience while sensing the spirit of chadō that Rikyu cherished. Learn the heart of wabi-sabi and find a peaceful moment in a tranquil tea room. It’s a special experience that reveals the depth of the tea ceremony alongside history.

🛍 Shop at Sakai En-an for Sakai souvenirs!
Items that reflect Sakai’s traditional crafts make perfect souvenirs.
You’ll find many easy-to-use products blending tradition and modern design.
Be sure to find goods that perfectly match your style!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Enjoy cultural experiences the whole family can share♪

Atami Sun Beach Water Park has opened!
July 19 to August 31, 2025
Enjoy the summer at Atami’s sea again this year!

https://www.ataminews.gr.jp/event/184

The terminus of Izu, the starting point of wonder.
Minamiizu Town, the southernmost tip of the Izu Peninsula

Summer has finally arrived in Minamiizu Town.
Yumigahama Beach, a 1.2 km stretch of sand edged by white beaches and green pines
Hirizo Beach, boasting some of the clearest waters in Japan
The yuusuge (evening lily) that blooms with the sunset during summer
Mikomoto Island, a diving sanctuary that divers across Japan dream of visiting
A night sky filled with stars and the Milky Way
The time and scenery of Minamiizu seep into you, making you want to return again soon. Because things don’t always go as planned, you notice the greatness of nature and create space to reflect on yourself.
Why not spend your summer hours in Minamiizu Town this year?

Minamiizu Town swimming beach information
https://x.gd/31Y2E

For more on sightseeing in Minamiizu Town,
Minamiizu Town Tourism Association (Official)
WEB: https://www.minami-izu.jp/
X: https://x.com/info_mizu
Instagram: https://x.com/info_mizu
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/info.mizu
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@minamiizu_tourism

Event Announcement📣

The "Furusato Ginga Line Rikubetsu Railway Festival" will be held on Sunday, July 20.😊

After the railway first reached Rikubetsu in 1910 (Meiji 43), it was abolished in April 2006 (Heisei 18).
In April 2008 (Heisei 20), it was reborn as the operational "Furusato Ginga Line Rikubetsu Railway."
Hoping to welcome more riders, we hold the "Furusato Ginga Line Rikubetsu Railway Festival."🎵

On Saturday, July 19, the eve festival features stage shows and local food stalls!!
About 1,500 fireworks will be launched, and a special fireworks train will run so passengers can watch the display from the train (capacity 32 people, 1,500 yen, includes Rikubetsu town specialty products).😍

Eve Festival
📌Date and Time: Saturday, July 19, 2025, from 18:00
📌Venue: Midorimachi Soccer Field
📍Fireworks launch at 20:00

On Sunday, July 20, the main festival is packed with activities, including special train rides, dance and street performances, horse riding experiences, a big lottery, and mochi throwing!! Rikubetsu town’s mascot character "Shibare-kun" and his bouncy dome are a big hit with children!!

📌Date and Time: Sunday, July 20, 2025, from 10:00
📌Venue: Station Front Multipurpose Plaza
📍A comedy stage by Yoshimoto comedians will be held at 14:30😁

Contact
Rikubetsu Town Tourism Association Office (Rikubetsu Town Hall, Industrial Promotion Division, Commerce and Industry Promotion Section TEL:0156-27-2141)

Enjoy the three-day weekend—bring your family and friends to the event and make lots of great memories🤗
https://www.rikubetsu.jp/kanko/event/tetsudoumatsuri/

Sakai Tourism Concierge recommendation ✨
“📍A special moment to soak in history and beauty at Sakai’s tea room Shin-an 🍵”

I’m Azusa Nakase from the Sakai Tourism Concierge.
I visited Shin-an, Sakai City’s tea room, to experience a Japanese space that stands quietly in stillness 😆

Built by Kodō Ōgi, renowned as a master of sukiya-style construction, the tea room presents a beautiful blend of modernity and tradition.
The moment I stepped inside, I felt time slow down 😌✨

You can also join a tea-serving experience 🍵 and taste matcha with seasonal sweets while touching the culture of chanoyu ☺️
One bowl of tea can enrich the heart so much…🍃

Please stop by during your Sakai sightseeing 🙌🏻
https://www.sakai-tcb.or.jp/spot/detail/107

🎉 The PADI Divemaster is born! Next, go to the 🎊 instructor

The other day, a new PADI Divemaster was born in Hokule'a Shonan!
After many practice and experience, I took my first steps as a professional diver. I really congratulate you.

The PADI Divemaster is an important step in progressing from fun diving to a position where you teach and support others. It is a rewarding qualification that requires safety management and leadership skills in water.

And from here, you can take it a step further and become a PADI diving instructor.
"I want to make diving my career" and "I love the sea, and I want to convey that feeling to others."
For those who have such a feeling, the instructor course is the next stage to make your dreams come true.

🌊 Hokule'a Shonan is Located in easily Access from Tokyo!
PADI 5 Star Instructor Development Center (IDC).
We provide small-group and attentive training, and English is also available.
Foreign residents in Japan and Japan who want to learn in English can also take this course with confidence.

Many of the following people participate in the professional course:
・Foreigners living in Japan who want to continue diving
・ Those who want to work in the sea in the future
・ Those who like travel and nature and want to change the stage of life

At Hokule'a Shonan, we do our best to support those who aim to become divemasters and instructors.
If you've always wanted to do it someday, why don't you take a step forward now?

📩 If you are interested, please feel free to contact us.
It's okay to send an email or Instagram DM. We wholeheartedly support your new challenge!

Instagram
@hokulea_divejapan

#DiveMasterJapan #DivingInJapan #PADIProJapan
#ScubaTokyo #JapanDivingLife #HokuleaShonan
#LifeInJapan #ExpatInJapan #JapanAdventure
#OceanCareer #DivingJourney #EnglishFriendlyDiving
#DiveInstructorTraining #ExploreTheBlue #StartYourDiveCareer

On Saturday, July 12, three swimming beaches in Atami opened for the season simultaneously.
At Atami Sun Beach, officials attended a safety prayer ceremony held by Kinomiya Shrine.
After the safety prayer ceremony, swimming began at 9:00. Handheld fireworks were given as gifts to the children who had gathered.
Enjoy the sea in Atami again this summer!

Beach season dates: Saturday, July 12, 2025–Sunday, August 31, 2025
Atami Sun Beach: Higashikaigancho, Atami
Nagahama Beach: Kamitaga, Atami
Ajiro Onsen Beach: Shimotaga, Atami
*Atami Sun Beach Water Park will operate from Saturday, July 19, 2025 to Sunday, August 31, 2025.*

https://www.ataminews.gr.jp/features/34

We have renewed the POP for the Shintoku Station rental bicycle service “ShinKuru”.
POP renewed

🚲Available for rental every day until October 31st🚲

*Please reserve electric-assist bicycles at least two days in advance.

From Tokutoku, the Shintoku Station Community Center
Enjoy the town’s nature, food, railway heritage, activities, and more to the fullest.

If you prefer to get around and have fun using your own body rather than by public transport or private car, please make use of the rental bicycles.

We have renewed the POP for the bicycle rental shop "Shinkuru" in front of Shintoku Station.
🚲Available for rental every day until October 31st🚲
*Please make a reservation for an electric-assist bicycle at least two days in advance.

From the Shintoku Station Community Center "Tokutoku" Enjoy the town's nature, food, railway heritage, activities, and more. If you want to play and have fun using your own body instead of public transportation or your own car, please make use of our bicycle rental service.

#Hokkaido
#Tokachi
#Shintoku Town
#Shintoku
#Shintoku Town Tourism Association
#Shintoku Station
#Ekimae Complex Facility Tokutoku
#tuktuk
#Tokutoku
#rental cycle
#ShinKuru
#electric-assist cycle
#soba
#cheese
#Karikachi Pass
#rafting
#horse riding
#hokkaido
#hokkaidotrip
#hokkaidotourism
#tourism
#tokachi
#shintoku
#welcomeshintoku
#discovershintoku

Minamifurano, Shintoku, Shikaoi
A joint pamphlet made by three neighboring towns📕

In the heart of Hokkaido, this pamphlet introduces delicious cuisine crafted from fine trees, pure water, and good snow, along with a variety of nature-based activities.

Beyond packing the charms of the three towns along National Routes 38 and 274 into one booklet,
each town is color-coded for easy viewing,
and you can catch detailed information by scanning the QR codes on the pages.

The colors for the three towns are…
Minamifurano Town — "Lavender swaying on Lake Kanayama🪻"
Shintoku Town — "The deep, shining blue of Lake Sahoro🫐"
Shikaoi Town — "The clear aquamarine of Lake Shikaribetsu💚"

Overall, the pamphlet uses gentle colors and a matte, classy paper texture that reflects careful design.
Despite the move toward digital, this is a deliberately analog paper pamphlet, and we hope you will pick it up and leaf through it.
(Personally, I’d like you to pay attention to the sound of the pages turning💡)

It seems rare for neighboring towns to produce a joint pamphlet like this.
So when you visit roadside stations or tourism association counters, please pick one up, look it over, and feel the pages!

We look forward to seeing you💁‍♀️

#Hokkaido
#Shintoku Town
#Minamifurano Town
#Shikaoi Town
#shintoku
#nanpu
#shikaoi
#Shintoku Tourism Association
#Minamifurano Town Development and Tourism Association
#Shikaoi Town Tourism Association
#Joint project of three towns
#pamphlet
#hokkaido
#hokkaidotrip
#hokkaidotourism
#tourism
#shintoku
#minamihurano
#shikaoi
#welcomeshintoku
#discovershintoku

Discover an undiscovered summer landscape of Japan — Satoyama rafting in Shobara! 🌊

Why not plunge into the nature of Shobara in Hiroshima Prefecture?
In Shobara’s tranquil satoyama scenery, you can enjoy a soothing rafting adventure as you drift down a gentle river. It’s a trip that lets you leave the city bustle behind and encounter the true countryside of Japan.

🚣‍♀️ Highlights of Satoyama Rafting in Shobara 🚣‍♀️
・Perfect for beginners, with local guides on hand; rafting on the varied currents of the Saijo River
・Seasonal scenery in every season (cherry blossoms in spring, fresh green in summer, autumn foliage)
・Opportunities to interact with nature, from fish to mountains
・Recommended for families, couples, and solo travelers alike!

A pleasant 90-minute drive from Hiroshima City makes access easy. Great for a day trip or an overnight stay.
Why not set off on an adventure that lets you feel the summer? ✨

For details and reservations▽
https://www.shobara-info.com/2500

Summer Festival & Fireworks Festival in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture is hot! 🔥
Here are 5 Events currently announced in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture from July ~ August.

(1) Bihoku Summer Festival 2025|National Bihoku Hillside Park (1st photo)
【Held in】2025/07/19 (Sat) ~ 2025/08/31 (Sun)
9:30~18:00 (Last entry until 17:00)
【Place】National Bihoku Hillside Park
【Address】4-10 Mikkaichi Town, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
【Contact】National Bihoku Hillside Park 0824-72-7000
In the middle of summer, a big frolic in Bihoku! The "Jabu Jabu Pond" where you can enjoy playing in the water and the "Beetle Dome / Stag Corner" have also started to be opened to the public! Other, tree climbing, Canadian Canoeing, and other summer events that can only be enjoyed in summer! Please take this opportunity to visit us!

Click here for Events Information▽
https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5141

(2) Summer Festival that connects sweetfish, river, and people|Sweetfish no Sato Park (2nd ~ 3rd photo)
【Held in Date & Time】2025/07/26 (Sat) 10:30~15:00
【Place】Sweetfish no Sato Park
【Address】1641-1 Nagata, Kuchiwa-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
【Inquiry】Sweetfish no Sato Park TEL 0824-89-2244
【Contents】This is a project to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the establishment of Shobara City. You can also eat sweetfish that has become the No.1 in Japan! Let's continue to protect Nature, which is the property of Shobara City! Stalls are also available!
(Salt-grilled sweetfish / Manjii hand-made Soba (limited to 70 meals of chilled bukkake Soba noodles) / Kuchiwacho "New Moon Markets" meeting (with multiple stalls) / Osaka Takoyaki Konamon / Fukupan (egg sandwich) / Draft beer sales / Local sake sales / Kitchen car C&J etc.)

Click here for Events Information▽
https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5090

(3) 2025 Tojo "Yuka Festival" (4th photo)
【Held in Date】2025/08/10 (Sun) 17:00 Open / 17:40 Start
【Place】Shobara City Tojo Elementary School Ground
【Address】1342 Kawahigashi, Tojo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
【Inquiry】Tojo "Yuka Festival" Executive Committee (Tojo Town Chamber of Commerce and Industry) TEL 08477-2-0525
【Contents】In my hometown Tojo! Let's have a summer festival!
It is an annual summer festival in the Castle Town of Tojo. The fireworks that echo through the Mountainous Area are a sight to and, and Many Stalls gather and it is very lively. The Ground Self-Defense Force is also coming! Stage events, stalls Village, and this year's princess of the traditional event "Odori" in Tojo Town, Shobara City, which takes place around November, will also be introduced.

Click here for Events Information▽
https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5131

(4) Hoshimi Markets|Sakura Shokudo directly managed by farmers (5th photo)
【Held in Date & Time】2025/08/11 (Mon) 16:00~20:30 (rain or shine)
【Place】Shokusaikan Shobara Yume Sakuranai Farmer's Directly Managed Sakura Shokudo
【Address】291-1 Shinjo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
【Inquiry】Sakura Shokudo directly managed by farmers TEL 0824-75-4516
【Contents】This is the children's night market of Sakura Shokudo.
You can enjoy food, miscellaneous goods, Workshops, fortune telling, therapy, etc.
【Notes】
・ Stalls are subject to change, so please note.
・ Admission to the venue is free, but various workshops, experience corners, and product purchases will be charged.
・Please take your garbage home with you.

Click here for Events Information▽
https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5132

(5) The 43rd Shobara Yoitoko Festival and Shobara Summer Festival Fireworks Festival (Photos 6~8)
【Held in Date】Shobara Good Cousin Festival will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025
Fireworks festival will be held on Sunday, August 24, 2025
【Place】Around Shobara City Office
【Address】 1-10-1 Naka Honmachi, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
【Inquiry】The 43rd Shobara Yoitoko Festival Official Instagram
▷ https://www.instagram.com/yoitokomtsuri43/
This year's theme is "Burn Your Heart"
For a record of festival's Information and Held in, please check the official Instagram of the 43rd Shobara Yoitoko Festival! The next day, Annual event! The Shobara Summer Festival fireworks festival is held. When the details come out, we will announce them on the Shobara Kanko Navi Home page.
< Organizers> Shobara Yoitoko Festival Steering Committee, Shobara Good Toko Festival Executive Committee

Click here for Events Information▽
https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5124

Shobara City Tourist Information Site "Shobara Tourism Navi"
▷ https://www.shobara-info.com/

Event announcement📣
July has arrived, and summer is here in earnest — a season full of festivals and events. If you’re free this weekend, why not drop by one of the events taking place? 🤗

📌Saturday, July 5 — Shirohebi-hime Festival at the shore of Lake Shikaribetsu in Shikaoicho. This theatrical folk performance, created from Ainu traditions, features a 13-meter white snake and a princess dancing in a dreamlike spectacle.
■Time: 17:30–21:15
■Free shuttle bus to the venue: A free shuttle will operate from Kanda Nissho Memorial Museum in Shikaoicho to the lakeside venue using the regular bus route.


📌Sunday, July 6 — The 52nd Pyotan Falls Yamabe Release Festival at Satsunai River Park in Nakasatsunai Village. The day starts with the release of yamabe (a local trout), followed by a Poroshiri drum performance, hands-on workshops, food trucks, and ends with a stage-side edamame toss featuring the village’s specialty edamame.
■Time: 10:00–14:00
■Access: About a 60-minute drive from Obihiro Station


Find other summer events on the Tokachi HARE website under “Events.” Please check the homepage at the URL below 😊

It’s been hot every day, so please take care to avoid heatstroke and enjoy a pleasant weekend 🎵

https://tokachibare.jp/event/

🍄 July 7 is "Dried Shiitake Day" 🍄
To celebrate, we will hold the "Dried Shiitake Fair" on Saturday, July 5!

📍Venue: Morokko House parking lot
🕘Time: 9:00–16:00

✨Event highlights✨
- Freshly grilled! Complimentary dried shiitake
- All-you-can-stuff dried shiitake and wood ear mushrooms!
- Tasting of Morotsuka Village oolong tea "Seikomasucha" 🍵
- Local specialties and summer vegetables will also be on sale 🍅🥬

This is an event everyone from children to adults can enjoy!
Come with your family and friends and join us 😊

If you want to "get PADI Sense in Japan", Hokule'a Shonan!
Hello! This is Hokule'a Shonan.

"I want to get a diving Sense while traveling in Japan"
"I want to take a course in English"
We offer courses that are perfect for guests from overseas in the Kanagawa and Shonan areas.

This time, guests from the United States completed the PADI Open Water Diver Course in 3 days and became divers! 🎉
The first day started with practicing basic skills, and on the last day, I was able to enjoy the sea with confidence.

The course can also be handled in English, so it is safe for foreigners living in Japan and those who are traveling.
In fact, the guests this time were able to communicate smoothly in English and proceed with the course safely and happily.

The training location is IOP (Izu Marine Park) in Higashi-Izu, a popular diving spot that can be reached on a day trip from Tokyo. Diving in the colorful schools of fish and beautiful sandy waters is truly a unique experience in Japan.

Hokule'a Shonan is certified as a PADI 5 Star Dive Center and features small class sizes and attentive instruction.
Even after obtaining Sense, we also provide support for the next step, such as Advanced Open Water Diver and Fun Diving.

✅ Especially for those who would like to recommend
Travelers and business travelers coming to Japan from overseas
Those who want to take diving lessons in English
Those who are interested in Japan's Nature and the sea
For those who are experiencing diving for the first time

Would you like to acquire a PADI Sense that can be used for a lifetime in Japan?
It is easy to access from Tokyo and is perfect for memories of your trip.
Let's experience the "blue world" with us!

#PADIOpenWater #DivingJapan #IOPIzu #ScubaNearTokyo #PADI5Star #JapanTravelTips #ExploreTheBlue #HokuleaShonan #SoloTravelJapan #OceanAdventure

Mihama Town Energy and Environment Education Experience Center “Kiipas” will hold a summer holiday program from Monday, July 21 to Wednesday, August 6. Participation is free, so please join us!

See the flyer for details.

Please use the application form below.

Mihama Town Energy and Environment Education Experience Center “Kiipas”
Address: 62-1 Nyuu, Mihama Town
Phone: 0770-39-1116

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1sa_qrn7VglV90mV-tZQ6dn3y8M4wg23W5LToNIwW1yM/viewform?edit_requested=true

■Paella Cooking Experience■

This plan invites you to try making paella with support from a specialist certified by the All Japan Paella Federation.

The venue, Notanohira CampGround, lies deep in Toyooka Village. Far from populated areas, it is a quiet campground set beside the clear Abukawa River.

Relax and refresh to the green trees and the gentle murmur of the river, and enjoy making paella together in a lively atmosphere!

[Plan Details]
■Season
Late April through October

■Meeting Point
Toyooka Village Tourism Association (toyooka travel time)

= For those using car navigation =
toyooka travel time
Address: 12407 Kumashiro, Toyooka Village, Shimoina-gun, Nagano Prefecture TEL 0265-49-3395
If the above address does not appear, please set Toyooka Village Central Nursery School as your destination
and come to that location.
Toyooka Village Central Nursery School Address: 12368 Kumashiro, Toyooka Village TEL: 0265-35-4953

■Capacity
10 people (minimum operating number: 5)
If you wish to participate with fewer than 5 people or more than 10 people,
please contact us to discuss arrangements.

■Price (tax included)
For groups of 5 to 10 participants: 5,500 yen per person
If you wish to participate with a different number of people, please contact us.

[Contact: Toyooka Village Tourism Association (toyooka travel time)]
・By phone: 0265-49-3395 (9:00–18:00)
・Inquiries via website: https://www.vill-nagano-toyooka-kanko.jp/paella-making-experience/

■Course Details and Schedule (approximately 4 hours)
1) Gather at toyooka travel time 11:00 (payment)

2) Travel to Notanohira CampGround 11:00–11:45 approximately
※Please travel by private car.

3) Arrive at Notanohira CampGround around 11:45

4) Paella making experience and meal 11:45–15:00 approximately

6) Local dismissal at Notanohira CampGround around 15:00

■About the Plan
[About Notanohira CampGround]
It is about a 40-minute drive from the center of Toyooka Village.
Far from populated areas, you can enjoy a leisurely time amid green trees and the river’s murmur.
Please travel to the campsite by private car.

[About the Paella Cooking Experience]
Participants will make paella with guidance from a certified paellero (paella chef) accredited by the All Japan Paella Federation.
Specialists from the Japan National Paella Contest Team, members of Paella Mania Cup winning teams, and other authentic paella experts will teach you, offering a special hands-on experience.

[Combining with Other Activities]
It is possible to combine this plan with other activities.
We particularly recommend pairing it with the Pothole Tour, where you can enjoy river play at one of Japan’s largest pothole sites.

[Clothing]
・Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for active movement
※You may use the changing room and lockers inside the Toyooka Village Tourism Association before and after the tour.
※For an additional fee, showers are available at the Toyooka Village Tourism Association facility.
(300 yen)

■How to Inquire and Apply
Please apply by phone or via the inquiry form on the website.
Phone: toyooka travel time 0265-49-3395 (9:00–18:00)
Website: https://www.vill-nagano-toyooka-kanko.jp/paella-making-experience/

■Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation is possible until 6:00 PM four days before the experience date.
Cancellations after that time will incur a 100 percent cancellation fee.

Meeting the "Flower That Brings Happiness," Kirengeshoma — Summer Hikes up Mt. Kurodake

Around Obon, the elusive Kirengeshoma begins to bloom quietly in the mountains 🌼
Listed as Vulnerable (Category II) on the Ministry of the Environment’s Red List and thrust into the spotlight by an NHK morning drama, this flower is said in local lore to bring happiness to those who see it.

Kirengeshoma once grew in large colonies around Morotsuka Village and Mt. Kurodake, but its numbers have drastically declined due to deer browsing.
Now, it survives only in limited areas where local residents continue conservation efforts.

Mt. Kurodake is designated an Important Habitat by Miyazaki Prefecture, and besides Kirengeshoma it shelters many rare Kyushu mountain plants and wildlife, making it a precious natural treasure.

On this hiking tour, local guides will accompany you, pointing out rare plants and offering nature interpretation so you can fully savor the rich forest.

🟡 Tour Overview: Mt. Kurodake Hike
📅 Date and Time: Saturday and Sunday, August 23–24, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
📍 Meeting Point: Obarai Community Center (escort from Shiitake no Yakata 21 available)
🎒 Eligibility: Ages 3 and up (minimum 4 participants to run / maximum 10)
💰 Fee: Adults ¥5,000 / Children ¥4,000 (lunch and guide fee included)
📝 Registration Deadline: Saturday, August 16

Hike Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ (suitable for beginners to intermediate hikers)
🌱 Please wear comfortable clothing and hiking boots or non-slip athletic shoes.

A special summer day to meet the elusive flower.
We look forward to your participation!

Summer at Minami-Izu is finally here!!!
Starting today (June 28), the ferry service to Hirizo Beach is running!
The ferry to Hirizo Beach, a hidden spot boasting some of the clearest waters in Japan, operates through September 28.

For details on how to apply for the Hirizo Beach Swimming Tour hosted by our tourism association, please see the following.
https://x.gd/ppFn9

For other summer information, please refer to the following.
https://x.gd/Nf4RG

■About the photos shown
Hirizo Beach photo: SAYOKO SUZUKI https://www.instagram.com/izuphoto_345/
Credit is included because unauthorized use is prohibited.

Yusuge Park: Entry from the Minami-Izu Town Photo Contest 2024
The Minami-Izu Town Photo Contest 2025 is now accepting entries
https://minamiizuphoto.mitte-x.istsw.jp/index.html?cn=131

🇯🇵 Excellent Access from Tokyo! Held in PADI diving course in Nishi-Izu
[English support, small group size]

Implementation at Hokule'a Shonan recently held a PADI Open Water Diver Course.
The locations are "Hirasawa" and "Ida" in Nishi-Izu, which can be reached on a day trip from Hiratsuka, Kanagawa Prefecture.
Both are highly transparent and are perfect Spots for your first marine training.

All of the guests who participated this time were beginners in diving.
Scenes were nervous at first, but after a careful lecture on land, Nature was smiling by the time they entered the sea.
The instructor supported me one by one and proceeded with the course calmly.

🤿 Diving is "fun and learning"
In the diving course, you will practice basic skills such as breathing in water, clearing a mask, and neutral buoyancy.
Even if you are a first-timer, you can rest assured that the small group size and slow pace will make you feel at ease.
While experiencing buddy checks and equipment settings, you will acquire Nature and "diver thinking".

Above all, the best part is that you can practice in the beautiful sea.
The sea in Ida is called "Ida blue", and surrounded by clear Water and colorful fish, you will feel as if you are in another world.

🌏 Classes in English are also available. Suitable for travelers and business travelers!
Hokule'a Shonan offers PADI Sense courses in English.
It is also possible for those who want to obtain a Sense while traveling or business travelers who are staying for a short period of time.
With a flexible schedule, you can tailor the course to your stay plan.

🚉 30 seconds walk from JR Hiratsuka Station (easy Access from Tokyo and Yokohama)

📆 Schedule request OK

👥 Peace of mind in private or small groups

🗣 English-speaking instructors

📩 The first step to the world's oceans, right here in Japan
Activities can be started even if you are not a good swimmer.
Water is a magical experience of breathing in the water, encounters with sea creatures, and quiet time to face yourself.
Everything will be a special memory that will stay with you.

If you get a PADI C card (Sense), you will be able to dive in the world's oceans.
I sincerely recommend it to those who want to start a new hobby or refresh themselves in Nature.

Interested parties, please feel free to contact us by DM or email.
Your diving life starts 🌊 here

📸 Scenes of diving are also introduced on Instagram.
@hokulea_divejapan
Be sure to check out some of Japan's hidden diving spots!

#ScubaJapan #PADIcertification #DivingNearTokyo #HokuleaShonan
#JapanTravelTips #OpenWaterCourse #SoloTravelJapan #DiveWithUs
#ExploreTheBlue #HiddenDiveSpot #PADI5Star #DivingJourney #PADIJapan

We’re holding the Collaboration Hoshi Festival again this year.

Collaboration Hoshi Festival
Date and Time: Sunday, July 6, 2025, 9:30 AM–1:30 PM
Location: JR Mihama Station and Roadside Station Wakasa Mihama Hamabiyori
Event Highlights

★Mihama Station Entrance★
Fun Corner
(Mikata Five Lakes Junior Chamber)
Fish Catching Game
(Giinchanz)
Can Button and Keychain Making
(Japan Atomic Energy Agency)
Charcoal, Eggs, Herbal Tea, and More
(Sugahama Wakuwaku Cooperative)
Kimchi and Korean Pancakes (jeon)
(Tamachan)
Blueberries and More
(Rosemary Association)
Handmade Creations
(Hoshizora no Tamatebako)

★Mihama Station Waiting Room★
Café and More (Yume Fuusen)
Bead Accessories (Atelier Chiga)
Smart Ball Game (Honobono Kazoku Imai)


★Roadside Station Hamabiyori★
Fried Chicken and Yakisoba
Mini Festival Stalls
Food Trucks
(YouViVa Mihama)

★Seedling Distribution★
10:00 and 12:00 — two sessions
Location: Mihama Station Entrance
(Kansai Electric Power Mihama Power Station)

★Flower Seedling Giveaway★
From 9:30 AM — first 100 people
Location: Mihama Station Entrance
(ObamaLine Flower-Loving Women’s Group)

★Raffle★
From 12:30 PM
Collect three purchase support tickets from vendor booths and exchange them for one raffle ticket
(Mihama Station Front Event Executive Committee)
Seedling Distribution
10:00 and 12:00 (two sessions)
Flower Seedling Giveaway
From 9:30 AM — first 100 people

🌴 Good Access from Tokyo! Day trip diving tour🛳️ on Hatsushima

Hello, I'm Hokule'a Shonan! 😊
This time, we Held in a Day trip tour at Hatsushima, a popular diving spot in the suburbs of Tokyo.

Hatsushima is a small island with good Access, located about 30 minutes by ferry from Atami Port in Kanagawa Prefecture.
From Our store (Hiratsuka, Kanagawa Prefecture), it takes 🚗🛳️ about 1 hour and 30 minutes by Car and ferry
Transportation time is short, so even short travel schedules make it easy to visit.

🌊 Leisurely diving experience in crystal clear waters

On this day, the weather was good and the sea was clear, so I was able ☀️ to swim comfortably in the bright water
In the waters of Hatsushima, you can enjoy a variety of fish from shallow to deep and rocky terrain.
Even for those who are new to diving, the conditions were calm so that they could experience it with peace of mind.

🐟 Spot where you can meet popular fish

During the tour, we also met the Famous "Kobudai" on Hatsushima.
With its large body and distinctive face, this fish can come very close to divers Soba.
In addition, the rocky terrain and the way the light enters are beautiful, making it a 📸 recommended point for taking photos in the water
Shooting in bright water is a chance for even first-timers to take beautiful shots.

🤿 A safe environment and support system for beginners

Transportation is very smooth as the dive site on Hatsushima Island can be accessed immediately after getting off the ferry.
There are many days with few waves, and entry and exit are stable.
It is also recommended for those who have just taken the Sense and have not dived for a while.
At Hokule'a Shonan, even beginners in diving can enjoy it with peace of mind.
We offer small-group tours and attentive support.

🏝️ "Sea of islands" that can be enjoyed even in a short time

Even in the midst of a busy schedule, you can refresh your mood by exercising in nature and looking at the beautiful sea.
"I want to have a little adventure on a day trip" "I want to experience the sea near Tokyo"
This is the perfect tour for you.

📍 Hokule'a Shonan (Hiratsuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture)
🚉 30 seconds walk from JR Hiratsuka Station South Exit
🅿️ Car parking available, English support OK, PADI 5 star registered store

💬 For inquiries and tour reservations, please feel free to visit the official website or Instagram!

#HatsushimaIsland #IslandTripFromTokyo #ScubaDivingJapan
#TokyoDayTrip #JapanTravelTips #BestOfJapan #UnderwaterAdventure
#KanagawaDiving #HiddenGemsJapan #HokuleaShonan
#PADI5Star #DiveJapan #EcoTravelJapan #OceanRetreat

Otabe Kyoto Factory
Kyoto-shi, Minami-ku, Nishikujo Takahata-cho 35-2
Factory Visiting the sites: Free
Hands-on workshops are available for a fee.

On the 2nd floor of the Otabe Main Building, you can Visiting the site how the Raw Yatsubashi Bridge is made, the manual work of craftsmen and the process of machines through the glass.

In the Otabe Main Building, you can enjoy two handmade experiences.
Reservations: By reservation only at least 1 week in advance

Making seabed Aged wine on a sunken ship|Special tour Held in in Higashi-Izu and Irisawa!
Hello, I'm Hokule'a Shonan!
This time, we successfully held in 😊 our special project, "Making Aged Wine on the Sea Floor in Sunken Ships"

This time, the wine was sunk in a sunken ship at a depth of -24 meters in water in Irisawa in Higashi-Izu.
In fact, it is said that the origin of "seabed Aged wine" is an old wine that was accidentally discovered in a sunken ship.
The swaying waves, the quiet environment, the shading and the constant water temperature created an ideal aged environment for the wines.

We Reproduction the "Submarine Cellar" this time!
The specially prepared bottles were sealed with sealing wax and the carefully prepared wine was transported to the sea.
The space inside the wreck is "just the right size" as if it was prepared for this wine.
The scenery peeking out from the side was truly fantastic, and it was a scenery that made me feel somewhat "romantic".

Thank you to everyone who participated on this day!
In particular, There is a 🍷✨ to Mr. Kobayashi of Hiratsuka's wine bar Binot, who has given us a great deal of cooperation from the planning stage this time

The wine will be raised six months later, in December.
At this year's Christmas party, a special one that has been quietly Aged on the seabed will appear in front of you.
What does it taste like? I can't stop being excited!

At Hokule'a Shonan, it will not end with "just a diving experience" from now on.
We would like to propose a "little special sea trip".

▼Special thanks
Instagram
@shobuzawa_diving (Irisawa Diving Center)
@winestore_sakae_binot (Wine Bar Binot)

Information on upcoming tours and events will be introduced on the official Instagram and blog from time to time, so be sure to check it out!

#SeaAgedWine #UnderwaterCellar #WineDive
#OceanAging #WreckDive #HokuleaShonan
#DiveJapan #UniqueExperiences #WineLovers
#UnderwaterAdventure

Ume Juice and Umeboshi Making

On a crisp summer day today (June 19), the red, white, and pink azaleas welcomed us cheerfully at Kuraokakurara.

The eldest children from Kuraoka Nursery School and first graders from Kuraoka Elementary gathered to make ume juice and umeboshi.🤗

The children had harvested plenty of fresh ume at the Kuraoka district orchard the day before.😳💕

Under the guidance of the neighborhood’s “ume expert,” who lives in the Kuraoka area, everyone packed the prepared ume into jars.

They will take the jars back to school, turn them over every day, and let them develop until the juices rise.💪

When the red shiso season arrives, they will move on to the next step.💡 It sounds delightful.🥰

It seems the children, now junior ume experts, also took some ume home, so they will likely enjoy processing them at home while passing on what they learned to their families.🤩✨

June 22 (Sun) 9:30~15:00 "Green Markets" Held in! ✨
It will be held in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, National Bihoku Hillside Park, Satoyama Station Shobara Furari, Shobara Furari.
Stalls and stage events will also be held.
You can enjoy a cappella performance by "The CROWS" and performances by the Saijo Blues Harmony Brass Band and the Prefectural Hiroshima University Wind Orchestra.
Let's enjoy the green markets surrounded by vast beautiful greenery!

【Place】National Bihoku Hillside Park Satoyama Station Shobara Furari Shobara Furari
【Address】4-10 Mikkaichi Town, Shobara City
【Inquiry】 Please contact us via DM on Instagram. 「@satoyama_furari」

Click here for Events Information▽
https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5116

6/16 Held in Ishizuchi Kechromoji Essential Oil Extraction / Plant Dyeing Experience.

I enjoyed a part of the high-grade Japanese essential oil extraction work and the experience of dyeing a silk scarf using Kuromoji. During the work, you can learn about the forests of the Mt. Ishizuchi range from the instructor. This year's trial session will be held in September. Thereare a few slots left. Why don't you relax at the foothills of Mt. Ishizuchi? Souvenirs of essential oils, distilled water and scarves are included!

9/15 (Mon) 10:00~13:30
Location: Ishizuchi Fureai no Sato 〒793-0214 25-1 Nakaoku, Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture
Experience fee: 6,000 yen (tax included) / person Lecturer, lunch, etc.
Capacity: 8 people *First-come, first-served basis
Reservations and inquiries: Saijo City Tourism and Products Association 0897-56-2605

[Notice 📢 of start of skin diving course]
Hello!
From this summer, Hokule'a Shonan will start a new "skin diving course" 🫧

Many of you may be wondering, "What is skin diving?"
Skin diving is a diving style in which you dive into the Water with "only your own breath" without using a tank like Scuba Diving. It is similar to so-called "Diving with bare hands", but it is very important not only to dive, but also to have the skills and knowledge to enjoy it safely.

For example, by properly learning how to breathe properly, how to remove ears, posture in water, and how to dive, you will be 🌿 able to enjoy it much more comfortably and with peace of mind
The appeal of skin diving is "lightness" and "freedom".
Because there are few equipment, you can directly experience a sense of unity with your body and the sensation of water, and you will feel as if you are one with the sea.

It's perfect for those who say, "I like the sea, but scuba seems a bit of a hurdle ..."
Of course, it is also recommended 🐬 for experienced scuba players as a new way to enjoy it

This course is designed so that even beginners can participate with confidence.
We will support you carefully, so please feel free to contact us 😊 if you are not confident in swimming or are worried about removing your ears

🌊 \Skin Course and Skin Tour Held In Date/
📍Saturday, June 28
📍July 12 (Sat) - 13 (Sun) Lake Suganuma Skin Tour
📍Saturday, July 19

Held in on request in addition to the above dates!
If you would like to be able to participate on this day, please contact us 🙌

Let's 💙 experience the "breathtakingly beautiful" world of the sea together
We look forward to your participation!

#SkinDiving #FreedivingJapan #TrySkinDiving
#SkinDivingTour #UnderwaterAdventure #ExploreTheBlue
#DiveIntoNature #LakeDiving #JapanDivingExperience
#NewDiveExperience #HokuleaShonan #PADI

Summer Vacation is coming soon! 🌞 Enjoy Nature with your family!
Squid about a special experience where you can enjoy interacting with cows and making cheese at "Fukufuku Ranch" in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture? ✨

Fukufuku Ranch is a small ranch located in the mountains of Kuchiwa Town, Shobara City. The difference from a typical ranch is that this is the mountain itself. You can enjoy a real ranch experience.

Click here for details▽
https://www.shobara-info.com/report/5109

Choose from 1,724 Municipality nationwide! Ranked 😍 23rd in the TOP 100 of the "Summer Resort Ranking"
Implementation by the travel app "NEWT", Shobara City and Jinsekikogen Town in Hiroshima Prefecture ranked 23rd out of 1,724 municipalities nationwide.

【Survey Summary】
Survey conducted by "NEWT" (https://newt.net/), a tour and Hotel reservation app for overseas and domestic travel
Article URL: https://newt.net/jpn/nagano/mag-608849428

At the "National Bihoku Hillside Park" of Hiroshima Prefecture Shobara City, we will Held in "Making Ume Plum Mogi and Ume Plum Juice" from June 18 (Water) ~ June 20 (Fri), 2025.

【Contents】
This is a program where children learn about the food culture of rural woodlands through the experience of making Ume Plum Mogi and Ume Plum Juice.

[Schedule]
◯ Ume plum mogi (in front of the assembly hall: about 20 minutes)
・ Let's all pluck the fruit (Ume plum fruit) that has become a Plum tree!

◯ Making Ume Plum Juice (Yakimono Workshop: about 40 minutes)
・ Let's get rid of the stem!
・Let's sterilize with hot water!
・ Let's cool down with a fan!
・Let's pickle it with sugar!
* If you take the pickled "Ume Plum Juice" home, store it in a cool place, and pickle it, you will be able to drink it in about 1~2 months.
・ Tasting the finished Ume plum juice!
* Since it takes a period of time from soaking to drinking, the Ume Plum juice to be Tasting this time is
It was pickled last year.

【Place】National Bihoku Hillside Park Hiba-no-sato Sanshuden-mae and Satoyama-yashiki
【Address】4-10 Mikkaichi Town, Shobara City
【Contact】National Bihoku Hillside Park TEL 0824-72-7000

Click here for detailed Events Information ▽
https://www.shobara-info.com/event/5105