【❄️Introducing Photos Submitted to Winter Gokase 2025 — Part 4❄️】 Today we present photos submitted to the Winter Gokase 2025 contest, currently running on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account 🫡🎉 @_aymiii_photo @eco9syu_sekiryo @photo_ay_umi *Order is random* From Gokase Highland Ski Resort we received delightful, humorous shots and beautiful images that convey the joy of snow 😆🎶 Thank you for your submissions 😌💕 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gokase Town has seen a touch of snow again since yesterday ❄️ It’s cold and icy roads are worrying, so going out can be daunting, but we also welcome photos taken in your own yard — capture a lovely winter scene and feel free to submit it 🤗✨ <How to Enter> Follow the Gokase Tourism Association on Instagram (@gokase_kanko) and post with the hashtags “#Winter Gokase 2025” and “#Photo location (e.g., #Unoko Falls)” 📸 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account → https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... *There are risks such as heavy snow and icy roads. Please ensure safety and take care to avoid accidents while shooting⚠️

【❄️Winter Gokase 2025 Photo Contest — Featured Entries Vol. 3❄️】 This is the third installment of our series showcasing entries posted to the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram for the “#Winter Gokase 2025” contest.💡 We’re excited to share more photos today!😆👏 @yamabico_san @aiaiaiaiaiaiai77 @conne.hikariconect @gokase_entertainment ※In no particular order Many submissions captured the quiet atmosphere and beautiful snowy scenery.😌❄️ Thank you for your entries.👏 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- We’re delighted to see the number of entries steadily growing.😊✨ Thank you all so much for your continued support.🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️ With about one month left until the entry deadline, please feel free to photograph any winter scenes you love and submit them.🤗💕 How to enter Follow the Gokase Tourism Association on Instagram (@gokase_kanko) and post your photo with the hashtags “#Winter Gokase 2025” and “#photo location (for example: #Unoko Falls)”.📸 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account → https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... ※There may be hazards such as deep snow or icy roads. Please ensure your safety and take care to avoid accidents when photographing.⚠️

Kyushu, Oita Prefecture, Bungoono City event "PRE Junzo" held at Oita Station Plaza Ahead of Junzo, "PRE Junzo" will once again take place this year at Oita Station Plaza. This is a pre-event where you can sample Bungoono’s sake before the main Junzo event. Vendors will offer Bungoono sake and snacks that pair perfectly with it. This year’s program also features stage performances. Why not come to Oita Station Plaza and get a taste of Junzo? Date and Time Saturday, March 1, 2025, 3:00 PM–7:00 PM (last admission 6:30 PM) Location JR Oita Station Plaza Tasting of each brewery’s signature sake We will sell tasting tickets for 2,000 yen on site for up to 500 people. (One cup from each brewery, four cups total) Additional tasting tickets will be available for 500 yen per cup (available only to ticket holders). Stage Performances Taiko drumming, kagura and other performances from Bungoono City are scheduled to appear. Junzo Tickets for Sale We will sell tickets for the main Junzo event at the PRE Junzo venue. Ticket prices ■ Advance sale price: 2,000 yen (tax included) ■ Same-day price: 2,500 yen (tax included) A special zodiac-themed guinomi (sake cup) is also on sale ■ Single price: 880 yen (tax included) (Available for 500 yen to ticket holders) Buying the guinomi together with a Junzo ticket offers better value. Junzo Bus Tour Reservations Open If you prefer a relaxed route, consider the Oita departure and return bus tour. Event Inquiries Commerce and Tourism Division Tel: 0974-22-1117 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 ---------- On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing spots, food and accommodations in Bungoono City⬇✨ Bungo Ono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us 😊 You can find the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website link in our profile. ---------- For details about the main Junzo event, please check the link. https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20241225megurukura/...

Kyushu, Oita Prefecture, Bungo Ono City event [The 32nd Bungo Ono Dondo-yaki Festival] The 32nd Bungo Ono Dondo-yaki Festival will take place in Ono Town, Bungo Ono City. The sight of the roughly 20-meter-tall “dondo” built from bamboo rising up in flames is spectacular. Pray for good health and a prosperous year at the dondo-yaki. [Date and Time] Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 16:30 (held light rain or shine) [Location] Ono General Sports Park (Parking Lot No. 2), Bungo Ono City [Admission] Free [Parking] Available [Schedule] 16:30 – 17:00 Opening ceremony 17:00 – 17:30 Shinto ritual 17:30 – 19:00 Shonai Children’s Kagura (Yufu City) 19:00 – 19:40 Yufuin Genryu Taiko (Yufu City) 19:40 – 19:45 Ikushima Fireworks (Bungo Ono City) 19:45 – 20:00 Dondo fire-lighting ceremony 20:00 – Dondo ignition 21:00 – Closing ceremony ※Please bring New Year’s shimekazari decorations and omamori charms to the venue between 9:00 and 17:00 on the day of the event. We cannot accept items in advance. [Event Inquiries] Ono Town Dondo-yaki Executive Committee (Bungo Ono City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Youth Division, Ono Branch) Phone: 0974-34-2234 ■■■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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing spots, food, and accommodations in Bungo Ono City⬇ Bungo Ono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can find the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website link in our profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■ For details, please see the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website. https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250123dondoyaki/...

[❄️ Introducing Photos Submitted to Winter Gokase 2025 — Part 2 ❄️] Today we continue showcasing photos submitted to the Winter Gokase 2025 campaign, currently hosted on the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account 🤩🎉 @moko.m This entry, like the others, captures everyday winter life in Gokase Town. Each warm photo seems to carry the cheerful voices of children, and viewing them brings joy 🥰✨ Thank you for your submission 👏 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- We have more submissions to share, so we’ll introduce them little by little 🤗 When submitting, a few people posted using the kanji “五ヶ瀬” for the title “Winter Gokase 2025.” We wondered if those were intended as entries, but please be careful when submitting in the future ⚠️ Use the hiragana “ごかせ”! The correct title is “Winter Gokase 2025” written as 「冬のGokase 2025」!! How to enter (Submission period — through February 28) Follow the Gokase Tourism Association on Instagram (@gokase_kanko), and post with the hashtags “#冬のごかせ2025” and a tag for the photo location (for example: #Unoko Falls) along with your photo 📸 ※Snow and icy roads can be hazardous. Ensure safety when shooting and take care to avoid accidents ⚠️

❄️ Introducing Photos Submitted to Winter Gokase 2025 — Part 1 ❄️ We are showcasing photos submitted to the Winter Gokase 2025 contest, currently running on the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account 🤩🎉 @goto0619 @thusandleavis *Order is not indicative of ranking* These shots capture everyday moments in wintertime Gokase Town with a nostalgic feel 😌✨ Thank you for your submissions!! ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Over the past few days, daytime temperatures in Gokase Town have often felt mild ☀️ But it is still winter! In the mornings frost has turned gardens completely white. Here are places that froze over. You can even see animal tracks in the remaining snow! Please feel free to share any simple winter discoveries with us in the same easygoing spirit — we look forward to your entries!!! How to Enter (Submission Period through February 28) Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account (@gokase_kanko) and post with the hashtags "Winter Gokase 2025" and the name of the shooting location (for example: Uno no Ko Falls) along with your photo 📸 ※Snow accumulation and icy roads can be dangerous. When taking photos, please ensure your safety and take care to avoid accidents ⚠️

Event information for Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu Bungo Ono City Stamp Rally Tour of Five Roadside Stations A stamp rally that takes you around the five roadside stations in Bungo Ono City will be held. Visit the five roadside stations and make purchases of 300 yen or more to collect stamps for a chance to win local specialties from the roadside stations. A total of 125 winners will be selected. Give it a try and aim for these wonderful prizes! Event period Saturday, January 18, 2025 – Sunday, March 2, 2025 How to apply Pick up the stamp rally flyer (stamp sheet) at each roadside station. You will receive one stamp for each purchase of 300 yen or more. Visit each roadside station to collect stamps. When you have stamps from all five stations, cut out the detachable section on the back, fill in the required information, and drop it into the box set up at each station. Participating locations Roadside Station Mie Roadside Station Kiyokawa Roadside Station Harajiri Falls Roadside Station Asaji Roadside Station Oono Prizes Prize A: Roadside station specialty set worth 5,000 yen — 30 winners Prize B: Roadside station specialty set worth 3,000 yen — 45 winners Prize C: Roadside station specialty set worth 2,000 yen — 50 winners Other notes If a prize cannot be delivered because the recipient is absent for an extended period after delivery, the prize will be forfeited. Winners will be notified by shipment of their prize. Shipments are scheduled for late March 2025. Inquiries Bungo Ono City Five Roadside Stations Stamp Rally Office (located in Roadside Station Asaji) Phone: 0974-64-1210 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 Instagram On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing spots, gourmet picks, and accommodations in Bungo Ono City. Bungo Ono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can access the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website from the profile link. For more details, please see the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website. https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250117mitinoeki/...

Shichizo Shochu Photo Contest Last year, the Minami Satsuma Shichizo Shochu Photo Contest 2024 was Held in held from August 16 to November 30, 2024 sponsored by the Nanazo Council for the Promotion of Minami Satsuma Local Shochu (Shichizo Council). Representative of each brewery gathered the other day and held a judging meeting! Thank you very much for your application There is a many! The theme is free. We received many entries based on Shichizo products, cuisine, and scenery, spending time with family and friends, the scenery of Minami Satsuma and shochu, etc.! Everyone has wonderful photos, and it's hard to put them down... It was talked about! The winners will receive a DM from the Shichizo Council! Fun for great prizes! @7kura373 #Uto Sake Brewery #Honbo Sake Brewery #Fukiage Shochu #Mansei Sake Brewery #Higashi Shuzo #Sakurai Shuzo #Rikasa of the Du clan #Shichizo Shochu #Minamisatsuma City #Minami Satsuma #Kagoshima #Minami Satsuma Nanazo Photocon #Minami Satsuma Shichizo Photocon 2024

KKB Hometown CM Grand Prize and Video Award 2024 "My hometown, both now and in the future" Hello! This is S from the Minamisatsuma City Tourism Association "Kiyatamonse" staff! The results of the Hometown CM and Video Awards 2024 held in November last year have been announced! The result is... Unfortunately, it was a 🥹 participation prize I was very frustrated and disappointed because I finished it with the cooperation of many people after several months of worrying, but I did my best! We received warm words from the Locals and had a valuable experience! I would be happy if you could take a look and give us your impressions! ☺️ I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. M for the model, the Digital Public Relations Division and the Commerce, Industry and Fisheries Division of the Minamisatsuma City Office (especially Mr. Digital T and Mr. U for their help), the Kasasa Museum of Art for gracious permission to shoot, everyone involved in the fishing port, Mr. M for the wonderful drone photography, and everyone involved! There is a really! You can also watch other award-winning works on the KKB Hometown CM and Video Awards 2024 Home page and YOUTUBE videos, so please take a look ✨ * Publication of videos and links cannot be added, so photos are Publication. For the actual commercial videos, we apologize for the inconvenience, but we would appreciate it if you could search for "KKB Hometown CM Award". #Minamisatsuma City Tourism Association #Kiyata Monse Minami Satsuma #Minamisatsuma City #Kagoshima #kagoshima #Hometown CM Grand Prize #Hometown CM Video Award

Welcome to Gokase Town in winter ✨ Answer our survey and get local specialties 💪 (Response deadline: Friday, February 28 ⚠️) A notice from Gokase Entertainment Co., Ltd. 💡 Right now, visitors to Gokase Town who complete a short survey will be entered into a drawing. Fifteen winners will receive local specialties from Gokase Town 🤩✨ This survey aims to make Gokase Town an even more attractive tourist destination, so we would greatly appreciate your cooperation 🤗 Here’s your chance to win a set of wine and kama-iri tea (pan-roasted tea) 💪❤️‍🔥 The response deadline is Friday, February 28 ⚠️ When you stop by Gokase Town, we look forward to your visit 🥺🙏

While thinking about Kanshin, we will walk around the superb view of the Minami Satsuma Kaido in early Spring. Jianzhen, the Chinese nobleman who brought Buddhist teachings and precepts to Japan, sailed six times to get to Japan and arrived at Minamisatsuma City Botsu, which was once called Japan Mitsu. Held in mainly in Botsu, it is a walking tournament named after Kazuhisa Kanshin. Thinking about the scenery that Kanshin stared at, we walk while enjoying the superb view of the Minami Satsuma Kaido in early Spring. Local people are full of warm and delicious hospitality. Basic Information Held in date: February 22 Held in time 8:00~Registration starts, Opening ceremony 8:45, Departure 9:00 Held in (1) Bozu Seascape Course Approx. 16km (Minamisatsuma City Bozu Gakuen Ground Start) (2) Oura Superb View Kamegaoka Course Approx. 12km (Oura Elderly Welfare Center Shiba Square start) Capacity (1) Bozu Seascape Course: First 600 people (2) Oura Superb View Kamegaoka Course First 500 people Application 2025 (Reiwa 7) January 15 9:00 ~ Reception starts 2025 (Reiwa 7) January 31 Deadline To apply, please visit the Minamisatsuma City Tourism Association Home page. * Early reception may end due to first-come, first-served basis. fee 1 don (900 ml) (20 years old and over) 3500 yen Adults and high school students: 1500 yen Junior high and elementary school students: 300 yen Contact us Minami Satsuma Kaido Kanshin Road Walking Executive Committee 0993-53-2111

【Ski Resort Photos】 Today in Gokase the sky is overcast☁️ and it’s been raining and snowing since morning, so it’s still cold🥶 By the way, Gokase Highland Ski Resort finally opened the Paradise Course for a 1,000 m run the other day⛷️✨ Unfortunately, only a 500 m run is available right now due to a lift malfunction, but repair work is underway, so please wait for its reopening 🥹🙏 I took some photos at the ski resort the other day, so I’ll share them here📸💫 The blue sky and pure white rime are incredibly beautiful😳 This season the ski resort’s conditions are excellent compared with usual years, so please come and visit Gokase Highland Ski Resort 🤗 Also, the Gokase Tourism Association is collecting winter photos of Gokase as “Winter in Gokase 2025” on its Instagram account❄️ Photos of the ski resort are welcome, and any snapshots of winter scenes are fine📸 For details, please see the pinned post on our profile🙏 We look forward to many submissions ✨

Gokase Highland Ski Resort I climbed up to Gokase Highland Ski Resort today to shoot some material📸❄️ At 7:00 this morning the temperature was a whopping -14°C🤣 It was such an odd kind of cold that it made me laugh🤷‍♀️ lol That said, the slopes were in perfect condition ⛷️✨ The wind was light and the snow was powdery and dry 🤩 Local junior high students were here today as part of their school activities, and they were happily enjoying skiing and snowboarding 🥰 The view of the ski area under the blue sky is truly beautiful 🥹✨ It feels like another world, and staring at it makes you feel drawn in…😳 You can see the distant mountains stretching far away, and the view from Gokase Highland Ski Resort is exceptional 👏❗ Tomorrow, Saturday, January 11th, at 10:00 the long-awaited Paradise Course 1,000 m run finally opens 🤩 Can’t wait 💪 The Gokase Tourism Association is currently running the "Winter Gokase 2025" campaign on their Instagram account and collecting winter photos from the area 🤗 There are prizes, so when you visit the ski resort or travel there, please take lots of winter photos within safe limits and enter the contest 🙏✨ For details, see the post pinned to the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram profile page 💡

[🍁 Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024 🍁 Results Announcement] Thank you for waiting‼️ Here are the results of “Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024” 🥳🎉 This time, the winners were chosen by votes from followers of the Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram account 👏✨ Thank you to everyone who voted 🙇‍♀️💕 Now, let’s announce the results👇👇👇 [🥇 Gold Prize] Unoko Falls Instagram: @san.shimako.1105 (second photo) [🥈 Silver Prize] Josenji Temple Instagram: @gokase_pan (third photo) [🥉 Bronze Prize] Shirataki Instagram: @niidome2110 (fourth photo) Unoko Falls, Josenji Temple, and Shirataki… these representative Gokase autumn-leaf spots each took home an award 👏❗ Each entry highlighted the beauty of the scenery and revealed expressions different from usual—truly wonderful work 🥹✨ Congratulations to all the winners㊗️🥳🎉 And to everyone who submitted entries, voted, and took part—thank you so much😭❤️‍🔥 The campaign is still ongoing as “Winter in Gokase 2025,” so please join us 🥰 We appreciate your participation 💫

Kyushu, Oita Prefecture’s Bungo Ono City event information ■■ Bungo Ono Megurukura 2025 On March 16, 2025, Bungo Ono Megurukura 2025 celebrates its event. Why not tour four sake breweries in Bungo Ono City and savor fine sake and Bungo Ono gourmet treats? Date and Time Sunday, March 16, 2025, 9:30 AM–3:30 PM Megurukura Tickets Now on Sale Advance sale price: 2,000 yen (tax included) Same-day price: 2,500 yen (tax included) Special zodiac-themed sake cup also on sale Single item price: 880 yen (tax included) (Ticket holders can buy one for 500 yen) Buying the sake cup together with a Megurukura ticket is a great deal. Ticket Sales Locations Hamajima Sake Brewery TEL 0974-42-2216 Kira Sake Brewery TEL 0974-42-2205 Muretsuru Sake Brewery TEL 0974-72-0101 Fujii Brewing TEL 0974-37-2016 Bungo Ono City Tourism Association TEL 0974-27-4215 Win a Prize by Lottery If you enter with a Megurukura ticket stamped by all four breweries, you will be entered into a prize drawing. How to apply: Fill in the required information on the application field on the back of your Megurukura ticket and put it in a designated collection box. Collection boxes are available at each brewery and at Mie-machi Station. Winners will be notified by shipping the prize. Shuttle Bus Information Shuttle buses will run on the day of Megurukura. You need a Megurukura ticket to board the shuttle bus. Shuttle buses running between JR Mie-machi Station and the venues operate at intervals of about 30–40 minutes. You may board or disembark at any venue. ※When boarding, please show your ticket to the staff. Inquiries about the Megurukura event Bungo Ono City Hall, Commerce and Tourism Division TEL 0974-22-1117 ■■ Bungo Ono Megurukura Bungo Ono City is home to two sake breweries and two shochu distilleries. Megurukura is the day when all four breweries in Bungo Ono City welcome visitors together. It’s a special day to enjoy delicious drinks and snacks while touring the breweries and taking in the scenery of Bungo Ono City. ■■■ Access to central Bungo Ono City ■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing, gourmet spots, and accommodations in Bungo Ono City ⬇ Bungo Ono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can access the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website from the profile link. ■■■■■■■■■■■■ For details, please see the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website. https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20241225megurukura/...

【Saitobaru Archaeological Museums】Exhibition III. Trinkets of Beauty and Rights ~Miyazaki's Kofun Tumulus Culture Reflected by Jade~ This is an announcement from the Saitobaru Archaeological Museums. From Saturday, January 18th, we will held in a special exhibition to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the opening of the museum, "History of Exchange of People, Things, and Hearts Across the Sea" as Exhibition III. Jewelry of beauty and power ~ Miyazaki's Kofun Tumulus culture ~ reflected by jade (tama) will be held. Since more than 10,000 years ago, "jade" has been a fascination to people. The "jade" of the Kofun period is not only beautiful in itself, but also a status symbol that shows the social status and role of the time by dressing it as an accessory, and it is also an item that shows "beauty" and "authority". In this exhibition, we will decipher the Scene of the formation and prosperity of society at that time hidden in the glittering world, the characteristics of Miyazaki's Kofun Tumulus culture, and the exchange of people, things, and hearts through the sea. ■ Duration 2025 (Reiwa 7) January 18 (Sat) ~ March 23 (Sun) ■Venue Miyazaki Prefecture Saitobaru Archaeological Museum Exhibition Room ■ Admission fee free ■ Inquiries Miyazaki Prefecture Saitobaru archaeological Museum 〒881-0005 Miyazaki Prefecture Nishi City Oaza Miyake Saitobaru Nishi 5670 TEL：0983-41-0041 FAX：0983-41-0051 Opening Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (Entry to the exhibition rooms until 17:00) Closed: Monday (the next day if it coincides with the national Holidays), the day after the national Holidays (excluding holidays) #Miyazaki Prefecture #West City #Saitobaru Kofun Tumulus #Japan Heritage #Saitobaru Archaeological Museums #勾玉 #Jade

Bungo Ono City in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. On January 3, 2025, the Ontake Kagura New Year performance took place at the Kagura Kaikan in Kiyokawamachi, Bungo Ono City. Many visitors came that day and enjoyed the Kagura dances.✨ The Ontake Kagura performed with impressive, vigorous dances. Many guests were captivated. ■■■ What is Ontake Kagura The Ontake Kagura passed down in Kiyokawamachi is said to have begun in 1449, at the same time as the founding of Ontake Shrine. It has been handed down for a long time, and Kagura in this tradition is performed in Oono, Naoiri, Ken Nan, and as far as the Aso region. In 2007 it was designated a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. ■■■ Access to central Bungo Ono City ■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing, gourmet spots, and accommodations in Bungo Ono City⬇ Bungo Ono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can find the Bungo Ono City Tourism Association website linked from our profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Fire Department New-Year Review Ceremony Today, Sunday, January 5, the fire brigade held its New-Year review ceremony at the Town Hall Parking Lot 🚒✨ The car thermometer read minus 4°C as we headed to the scene 😂 It was a freezing ceremony ❄️ Although I was fully bundled up and cheekily stood near the heater to take photos… The firefighters formed ranks with a poised, unfazed bearing that made them look truly impressive…👏 The squad training demonstration showed sharp, disciplined movements born of daily practice, which was extremely reassuring 🥹✨ The mass water discharge that followed sent colorful columns of water high into the sky and was incredibly powerful 🤩 They moved a fair distance to prepare before the discharge, and thanks to everyone’s perfectly synchronized, efficient actions it proceeded smoothly; I’m truly grateful for the fire brigade’s daily efforts 🙇‍♀️！ The ceremony concluded without issue after awards were presented to firefighting personnel, brigade members, distinguished contributors to firefighting, and families who support the brigade 🏆💫 To the fire brigade, who always protect our town and keep residents safe in their daily lives, thank you so much ✨

Happy New Year. The first sunrise of 2025 seen from the summit of Mt. Kuratake in Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture. The sun rises from the direction of the Aso caldera.

New Year Greetings Thank you very much for all your support last year. I look forward to your continued support this year. How did you spend the New Year? 😌 I hope the seasonal influenza and other circulating illnesses didn’t affect you. Wishing you a wonderful year ahead. 🙇‍♀️

[❄️ Winter in Gokase 2025 ❄️] Until Friday, February 28, 2025! Yes — winter too!! Instagram Campaign 🥳✨ After following the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account (@gokase_kanko), post a wintery photo taken in Gokase town on Instagram with these two hashtags: #Winter in Gokase 2025 and #Date and place of the photo (for example: #Unoko Falls) 🤳❤️‍🔥 One winner will receive a Gokase specialty product every day during the campaign period 🎁✨ Plus! The best entries will receive a gift set of Gokase specialties 🤩👏 Entries you post may be featured on the Gokase Tourism Association’s social media and other channels 💡 [Period] From Monday, December 30, 2024 to Friday, February 28, 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 care to avoid accidents while photographing. ------------------------------------------ …Actually, the voting period for “Gokase Autumn Foliage 2024” is still underway, so I thought mixing them might be confusing and planned to announce this after the New Year, but… I really want you to post New Year photos too 🥺🙏!!! I couldn’t wait and posted early 😂 We look forward to many beautiful winter photos of Gokase ☃️💕 Please keep the entries coming — thank you 📸🙏

Year-end Greetings Everyone, were you able to finish your work for the year safely😌? Some of you might not care about New Year’s at all😂 We at Gokase Tourism Association and the Gokase Specialty Center will, out of our own convenience, be closed for the year-end and New Year holidays as follows. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ <Monday, December 30> Cafeteria: closed Shop and produce: open mornings only <Tuesday, December 31 – Thursday, January 2> Closed <Friday, January 3> Cafeteria: opens at 11:00 Shop and produce: opens at 10:00 <Saturday, January 4 onward> Regular business hours resume ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Gokase Tourism Association will also be closed from Tuesday, December 31 to Thursday, January 2. We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your understanding. We have also compiled the January events we know about so far into a calendar to help you plan outings for next year🤗 And there’s more! We are accepting votes for “Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024” on the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account (@gokase_kanko ). We would be delighted if you and your family take your time over the New Year to pick photos and vote🥺✨ We truly appreciate your support🙇‍♀️‼️ We will be open tomorrow, so this is one day early, but… 🤣 Thank you very much for your support this year. We look forward to your continued support next year. Have a wonderful New Year’s Eve🤩👋✨ *We’ll say it again: we are open through tomorrow. Just kidding*

【First sunrise with vines】 ／ Let's worship the first sunrise with Tsurunoshin at the Izumi City Crane Observation Center! (Notice of special early morning opening) ＼ Start a new year with the congratulatory combination of "First sunrise and cranes"! The Izumi City Crane Observation Center is open from 6:30 a.m., but on January 1 (New Year's Day), the Izumi City mascot character "Tsuru no Shin" will also appear with the first sunrise! We will also sell salt musubi, fish soup, and Soba noodles from "Tsurushu" and "Machijiman". In addition, those who visit the museum on the day of the event will receive a "Crane Observation Center-New Year's Day Limited Can Badge"! This year, we will also have a "fluffy kite making experience that anyone can make". Please come and visit us. * Thereare a limited number of original can badges and kite making. Thank you for your understanding. ttps://www.izumi-navi.jp/events/post-3165/ —————————— ■Izumi City Crane Observation Center 【Location】〒899-0435 Kagoshima Prefecture Izumi City 2478-4 [Phone] 0996-85-5151 【Use fee】Adult 220 yen (160 yen), elementary and junior high school students 110 yen (50 yen) * Fee for groups of 20 or more people * Admission fee is free for the person and one caregiver upon presentation of each physical, rehabilitation, and mental certificate. * Those who have paid the entrance fee and their Car passengers are exempt from the admission fee to the Crane Observation Center. 【Regular holiday】Opening Open throughout the year (Opening period: November 1st ~ 2nd Sunday of March) 【Hours】9:00~17:00 (Admission until 16:30) 【Car parking lot】172 passenger cars, 20 large buses —————————— ■ About crane tourism in Izumi City (2024 (Reiwa 6) degree crane wintering ground Use adjustment) Period: Friday, November 1, 2024 ~ Sunday, March 9, 2025 【Time】06:30~16:30 * During the period, you can specially Use the rooftop of the Izumi City crane observation center at 06:30 ~ (admission fee required) 　Be sure to take a look at the sight of the cranes taking off in the early morning. * However, on the day of the following "Crane Feather Count Survey" by the students of the Crane Club, you will not be able to enter the area where the crane wintering grounds Implementation Use adjusted, including the Crane Observation Center, until 09:00 a.m. ・Sunday, January 12 【Details】ttps://www.ramsar-navi.jp/news/detail/1f88200f-15cd-4cd0-896c-c312021cbb2e —————————— ■ How to visit cranes during the Use adjustment Implementation period (1) Please refer to the above link and come to the "Crane Observation Center" through the designated routes. * Other routes are subject to use adjustment, so please refrain from passing. (2) Please pay the "Entry Fee (Wintering Area Environmental Conservation Cooperation Fund)" at the Toll station installed at the Car Observation Center parking lot and receive an admission pass. 【Admission Fee】 　Automobile or less: 1 car per day 1,000 yen 　Automobile or less: 1 car per season: 3,000 yen 　Microbus 1 car per day 3,000 yen 　Large bus 1 car per day 5,000 yen * "Normal Automobile and below" includes taxis, motorcycle Car, and walking. * Those who have paid the entrance fee will be free of charge for admission fee to the crane observation center. ■ Those who want to go to the East Reclamation and observe the cranes (3) At the Crane Observation Center, please take a 3-minute lecture on the purpose of Use adjustment and how to get to the East Reclamation. (4) Enjoy Visiting the site at the East Reclamation by taking the designated routes indicated in red by private Car or the ultra-compact BEV "C+pod" limited to two units. 　In addition, single-lens cameras and binoculars are available for rent in limited quantities Thereare. (5) There is a "Crane Observation Hyde (Bird Observation House)" in the designated route of the East Reclamation, so we recommend that you park your Car there and Car Visiting the site from Hyde. Visiting the site at your leisure without startling the cranes. (6) Finally, disinfect the cars (tires) at the crane observation center. * [Those who only wish to borrow a single-lens camera or binoculars free of charge] will also take the lecture Same as above. *Bring your own with your ID. * Bring your own SD card if you wish to take home the shooting data of the single-lens camera. —————————— The latest Information, such as Events during the Use Adjustment Period, will be introduced on the Izumi Ramsar Navi Home Page as needed.

🎍 Izumi City Izumi Station Tourist Specialty Products Hall "Hiraisato" Year-end and New Year business hours 🎍 This is a notice about the change in business hours during the year-end and New Year holidays of the Izumi City Izumi Station Tourist Specialty products Museum "Hiraisato". 🌅December 30 (Mon) 8:30~19:00 (Regular business) 🌅December 31 (Tue) 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 🌅 ︎ January 1 (Wed) Closed 🌅 ︎ Thursday, January 2 9:00-19:00 (shortened business hours) * From Friday, January 3rd, it will be open as usual (8:30-19:00). Use the Hirai Car parking lot can be used 24 hours a day, but it is expected to be crowded during the year-end and New Year holidays. If you Use the Shinkansen, please Use the JR Car parking lot.

\"Izumi Waku Waku Stay Plan" Tour Plan/ Enjoy Izumi City in Kagoshima Prefecture, which has many famous landmarks, such as the wintering ground of No.1 in Japan, the largest Samurai residences at the foot of Izumi, one of the largest in Japan! We are selling the travel product "Izumi Waku Waku Stay Plan" where you can experience the charm of Izumi. Bus tour around various experience programs in Izumi City! Whether you are in Izumi City or outside the city, please take this opportunity to enjoy the Izumi experience program! ▼ A trip to the dance of cranes illuminated by the Sunrise and a warm and delicious breakfast Date: Saturday, January 25, 2025 ~ Sunday, January 26, 2025 Fee: 7,000 yen~15,000 yen Details: ttps://izumi-kankou.main.jp/portfolio/stayplan2024_plan5/ ▼ Dance of cranes illuminated by the Sunrise Izumi and Nagashima enjoy plan to enjoy delicious food Date: Saturday, January 18, 2025 ~ Sunday, January 19, 2025 　　　Saturday, February 1, 2025 ~ Sunday, February 2, 2025 Fee: 11,000 yen ~ 38,000 yen Learn more: ttps://izumi-kankou.main.jp/portfolio/stayplan2024_plan6/ ▼ Yutari Orenji Olle Sunrise illuminates the dance of cranes and a warm and delicious breakfast Date: Saturday, February 15 ~ Sunday, February 16, 2025 Fee: 7,500 yen Learn more: ttps://izumi-kankou.main.jp/portfolio/stayplan2024_plan7/ Planning and Implementation Kagoshima Prefecture Governor Registered Travel Agency No. 2-279 Izumi City Tourism Specialty Products Association Domestic Travel Business Handling Manager Yutaka Ouchiyama Location: 715-16 Kamisabuchi, Izumi City, Kagoshima Prefecture Phone: 0996-79-3030 (Weekdays 9:00~17:00)

\Let's learn more about the Hokusatsu Campaign > Migration Consultation Meeting/ At the Migration and Exchange Information Garden (Tokyo), a migration consultation meeting will be Held in about the Hokusatsu area of Kagoshima Prefecture (Akune City, Izumi City, Satsuma Town, Nagashima Town). Interested parties who live in the Kanto area and are interested in living in the countryside, why not take the first step towards immigration? Even if you are not thinking about moving, please come to the venue if you want to know more about Kagoshima and the Hokusatsu area. Local Souvenirs are also entered into a raffle, and entry is free! Date: Saturday, January 11, 2025 11:00~16:00 Place: Migration and Exchange Information Garden (Echizenya Building 1F, 1-1-6 Kyobashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo) 【Participating municipalities】Akune City, Izumi City, Satsumagawanai City, Satsuma Town, Nagashima Town (The staff in charge of each municipality will respond politely) 【Inquiry】Kagoshima Prefecture Hokusatsu Regional Promotion Bureau, General Affairs Planning Division, General Affairs Planning Department (TEL: 0996-25-5107) [Detail page] iju-join.jp/join/iju_garden/10886.html

Gourmet information for Bungoono City in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu✨ [Funny Days Burger＆Sand] Funny Days Burger＆Sand is a hamburger shop in Miecho, Bungoono City. From December 2024, the Asaji Beef Menchi Katsu Burger debuts. The menchi katsu made with 100% Asaji beef is generously sized. It’s juicy, incredibly tender, and surprisingly delicious. [Funny Days Burger＆sand] ▼A burger shop using handmade buns and patties [Location] 878 Uchida, Miecho, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture (inside Eightpia Oono) Sold at [Share Shop Sumika] Parking: Available (on the Eightpia Oono grounds) [Hours] Tuesday–Sunday 10:00–15:00 (last order 14:30) [Closed] Monday and Wednesday (occasional irregular closures) ■■■ Access to central Bungoono City ■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing, gourmet spots, and accommodations in Bungoono City ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We’d be happy if you follow us. You can access the Bungoono City Tourism Association website from the profile link. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

\Around Izumi Castle/ This is a guide to Events that is a must see for history lovers and those who want to know the history of Izumi. For two days on Saturday, January 25 and Sunday, January 26, 2025, a lecture and a walking party will be held in under the title of "Medieval Mountain Castle: Visiting Izumi Castle". Izumi Castle, a medieval mountain castle with a unique structure called "Minamikyushu type castle". Many tiles have been excavated in the prefecture that have few excavated examples. Through lectures and the Yamashiro Walking Club, it is an Events that approaches the origin of Izumi Castle and the mysteries of excavated items. In addition, Hitoshi Nakai, professor emeritus of the University of Shiga Prefecture and councilor of the Japan Castle Association, will be invited as a lecturer on both days to learn more about Izumi Castle. It will be two days where you can fully immerse yourself in the history of Izumi, so please join us! ▼ Medieval mountain castle Visiting Izumi Castle ・Lectures Date: Saturday, January 25, 2025, 2:30 p.m. 【Place】Marumae Hall Izumi (Izumi City Bunkacho 23) 【Commentary】Hitoshi Nakai ・Yamashiro Walking Club Date: Sunday, January 26, 2025, 8:30 a.m. 【Place】In front of the Izumi Foothills History Museum (10-39 Foothills, Izumi City) 【Commentary】Hitoshi Nakai 【Notes】 ・ Subject of participation in the walking club is elementary school students and above. Elementary school students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. ・On the day of the walking party Izumi we will take a walk around Ruins of the Castle (Yamashiro). Please wear comfortable clothes and athletic shoes. ・Thereare the program may be changed or canceled due to weather conditions. [How to apply] Please apply electronically or by Phone. Pre-registration is not mandatory for those who will only participate in the lecture, but due to the preparation of the venue, we ask for your cooperation in pre-registration. city.kagoshima-izumi.lg.jp/page/page_010469.html Application deadline: Tuesday, January 21, 2025 【For inquiries, please contact】Cultural Properties Section, Culture and Sports Division, Izumi City (TEL: 0996-63-2108)

Nice to meet you all and welcome to COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! This is the Aso City Tourism Association in Kumamoto Prefecture. Best regards for introducing plenty of attractive information about Aso City in this Account. In this First Post, I would like to briefly introduce Aso City. ▶▶▶ What is Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture? ◀◀◀ Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture is located in the Northeastern region of Kumamoto Prefecture and is known for its active volcano "Aso Mountain" and its majestic Caldera topography, one of the one of the most in the world. With a population of about 23,000 (as of November 2024), it is a region with beautiful prairies that have been protected by people for generations for 13,000 years. It has a variety of attractions that Fascination the Visitors, including Five Peaks of Aso, Hot Spring, and landscapes registered as UNESCO Global Geoparks. ▶▶▶ Access ◀◀◀ to Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture ◎ Kumamoto Station - Access by train to Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture From Kumamoto Station to Aso City, it is convenient to Use the JR Hohi Main Line. Via Higo-Ozu Station, it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Aso Station. There is also a limited express train Car "Trans-Kyushu Limited Express". In addition, there are plenty of buses and rental cars to Aso City, and Access to the surrounding Sightseeing spots is also good. ◎ Aso Kumamoto Airport - Access to Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture by Car From Aso Kumamoto Airport to Aso City, it takes about 1 hour by car. Use a rental car or shuttle bus from the airport for smooth Access to Aso City and Sightseeing spots. At Aso Kumamoto Airport, a new Passenger terminal building will be opened in March 2023 that integrates domestic and international flights. ▶▶▶ Historical background ◀◀◀ of Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture The history of Aso City is centered on the Agricultural culture that has benefited from Mt. Aso Mountain since ancient times. In particular, the grasslands of Aso are said to have existed since the Jomon period about 13,000 years ago, forming the beautiful landscape of present-day Aso. One of the world's one of the most Caldera, created by hundreds of thousands of years of volcanic activity, has become a symbol of the Aso UNESCO Geopark. ▶▶▶ Popular Sightseeing spots ◀◀◀ in Aso City, Kumamoto I would like to introduce some Sightseeing spots that represent Aso City. ◎ Nakadake Crater Nakadake Crater is a place where you can experience the power of volcanic activity up close, and you can observe plumes and volcanic rocks near the crater. You can have a valuable experience where you can directly feel the power of geothermal heat and volcanoes. Access is convenient because there is a Car road leading to just before the crater. ◎ Kusasenrigahama Kusasenrigahama, a vast grassland of 785,000 square meters or about 38 times the size of Tokyo Dome, is a spot where you can enjoy a magnificent view with the Five Peaks of Aso in the background. Grazing cows and horses can be seen grazing leisurely, and it is a healing place where you can feel the breath of nature. Walking trail is also Maintenance and popular with tourists. ◎Aso Shrine It is an ancient shrine with a history of more than 2,000 years, enshrining 12 family gods, including Kenban Ryumei, who pioneered Aso, and is revered as the best shrine in Higo Province, and there are 500 branch companies Located in nationwide. Six buildings, including the temple and the tower gate, are nationally designated important cultural properties, and the tower gate is said to be one of the "three major tower gates in Japan". ◎ Daikanbo Daikanbo is a superb view point overlooking the entire Aso Caldera. You can see the magnificent view of the Five Peaks of Aso as a "reclining Buddha", and the scenery woven by the Sunrise and sunset is especially exceptional. The Observation decks has Car parking lots, shops, and convenient Access. ◎ Kusasenri Observation Point Elevation 1,100 Meters, Kusasenri Observation Point overlooks Kusasenrigahama. If the weather is good, you can see the Ariake Sea and Mt. Unzen in the distance behind Mt. Kinbozan, and a spectacular 360-degree view Unfolds as far as the eye can see. ◎ Rice Mound Rice Mound, which is said to have been formed by an eruption about 3,300 years ago, is a beautiful cone-shaped volcanic hill about 80 meters high located within the Caldera of Mt. Aso Mountain. It has a beautiful shape characterized by a lush slope that looks like an upside-down dog with a large depression at the top, and you can enjoy the expression of the four seasons, with vivid fresh greenery from Spring to summer and golden pampas grass Unfolds in autumn. ◎ Tagoyama Forest Park Tagoyama Forest Park is an observation spot where you can overlook the Five Peaks of Aso and Aso Valley. Hiking and forest bathing can be enjoyed in the park where lush nature spreads. From the "Sorafune Pier" where the top of Mt. Tagoyama protrudes, you can also see the sea of clouds spreading all below. ◎ Hana Asobi (ASO MILK FACTORY) Hana Asobi is one of the largest English rose gardens in western Japan, with 4,500 roses of about 750 species. There is a restaurant, cheese workshop, café, souvenir shop and Strawberry picking, so the whole family can enjoy it. ◎ Roadside Station Aso Roadside Station Aso is a facility where Local Specialty products and Tourist Information are gathered. Fresh vegetables and Souvenirs are lined up, and many tourists visit it as a base point for traveling to Aso. Take a break from driving is also a great spot. ◎ Cuddly Dominion It is a theme park where you can meet bears and various animals from all over the world. Popular events include a show by Director Miyazawa, who is famous as an animal trainer, holding a bear cub that can only be experienced here in Kyushu, and a "petting Zone" where you can play with dogs and cats from around the world, alpacas and capybaras. ▶▶▶ Specialty products gourmet ◀◀◀ in Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture ◎ Aso's Akaushi (Higo Akaushi) Aso's Akaushi beef is a brand of beef that is characterized by its lean meat, healthy and juicy taste. The high-quality meat grown in the grasslands of Aso is popular for steaks and yakiniku. ◎ Pickled mustard greens Aso's Specialties, Pickled mustard greens, are traditional pickles made from Takana grown in the Rich in nature environment of Aso. Ideal for accompaniment to rice and Ochazuke. ◎ soup It is a local cuisine of Aso, and is popular for its gentle flavor made with flattened or rolled Dango and vegetables from the earth's Traditional Japanese straw raincoat, seasoned with miso and soy sauce. ◎ Red pickled vegetables Red pickled vegetables are a traditional pickle that has been handed down to Aso along with pickled mustard greens, and it is a sweet and spicy pickle made with Aso's Local vegetables. Local people feel the visit of autumn by eating red pickled vegetables. ▶▶▶ Events and Festivals ◀◀◀ in Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture ◎ Agricultural festivals in Aso It is an agricultural festival held mainly at Aso Shrine, Kunizukuri Shrine, Shimo Shrine, etc. It is a historic festivals designated as a nationally designated Important Intangible folk cultural property. ◎ Great Aso Fire Mountain Festival Great Aso Fire Mountain Festival is a popular Events that is Held in every August. Fireworks color the night sky of Aso, which is rich in rich in nature. Various events are held in at the Aso City General Center Multipurpose Plaza, the Events venue, and stalls are lined up. ▶▶▶ Tourist Information ◀◀◀ of Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture is an attractive Sightseeing spot that combines magnificent Nature, history and culture. People fascinates visit the Caldera topography that spreads around the active volcano "Aso Mountain", the grassland culture that has lasted for more than 10,000 years, and the abundant Specialty products gourmet. We will continue to introduce recommendations of Aso City, so please follow us!

On Friday, October 18, 2024, the first batch of cranes, a winter tradition in Izumi City, Kagoshima Prefecture, arrived! At 3:45 p.m. on Friday, October 18, the Kagoshima Prefecture Crane Conservation Association confirmed that nine cranes landed on the East Reclamation. The breakdown was 7 Crowned Cranes, 1 Black-crowned Crane, and 1 Canadian Crane. The first crane feather count survey was canceled due to bad weather, but after that, the second crane feather count survey of the season was implementation in the early morning of Saturday, November 30, 2024, and as a result of the survey, a total of 12,992 cranes were confirmed: 12,036 cranes, 948 cranes, 4 black-crowned cranes, 3 Canadian cranes, and 1 black-crowned crane. As a result, for 28 consecutive seasons since 1997, we have achieved the arrival of more than 10,000 cranes! In the latest bird count survey on Saturday, December 21, 2024, the number of cranes decreased from the second survey, but a total of 10,928 cranes were confirmed: 8,998 cranes, 1,917 cranes, 8 black-crowned cranes, 3 Canadian cranes, and 2 black-crowned cranes. The next bird count survey of the season will be on Sunday, January 12, 2025. We are looking forward to seeing more cranes coming to the country and seeing rare cranes that have not yet been confirmed this season.