As part of the Kumamoto Prefectural Theater’s 40th anniversary projects, five videos were produced under the theme “A Moving Theater.” One of these, a collaboration video pairing Manda Pit with dance, has been released on YouTube. The performance set against the historic Manda Pit features professional dancer Yusuke Hayama as lead, choreographer, and scriptwriter. Art director Takashi Yoshida composed and directed an original piece for this project, and the film was produced by OP Films from Onigashima Productions. True to the phrase “Dance is Timeless,” the video offers a dance interpretation of Manda Pit’s history that transcends eras. https://arao-kankou.jp/info/11207/... Other videos created under the “A Moving Theater” theme are also available. Please take a look. ・Sakitsu Village × Double Bass ・Yatsushiro Myoken Festival × Tsugaru Shamisen and Japanese Drums ・Aso × String Quartet ・Misumi West Port × Marching Band

❄️ "Winter Gokase 2025" Voting Now Open ❄️【Until Sunday, March 16, 2025!】 Thank you all for entering "Winter Gokase 2025"! We have conducted a careful first-round selection by the tourism association staff and chosen ten entries from all submissions.🙏✨ From these ten entries, we will ask everyone to vote to decide the prize winners.🤩👏 Among those who vote, ten people will be randomly selected to receive specialty products from Gokase Town as a gift.🎁💫 We appreciate your participation.🙇‍♀️ How to vote is explained below.💡 [Voting period: Until Sunday, March 16, 2025] ⚠️ Voting is limited to one method per person and one vote per account or individual. <To vote via Instagram> https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... ・Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account. ・From the posts marked with the hashtag "#Winter Gokase 2025 Vote," choose one of the ten featured entries and comment the photo number in that post's comment section.✍ ⚠️ If you are not following the account, message exchanges may be unreliable and you will be excluded from the gift drawing. Please be aware. <To vote via Facebook> https://www.facebook.com/gokase.kanko/?locale=ja_JP... ・Choose one of the ten featured entries in this post and comment the photo number. ・Voting is limited to one vote per account. ⚠️ If you win the gift drawing, we will contact you via Facebook Messenger. If there is no reply within two weeks, the prize will be forfeited. <To vote via the website> ・Go to the "Winter Gokase 2025 Vote" page from the Gokase Tourism Association website's news topics (https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1994.html...） ・Click the URL on the "Winter Gokase 2025 Vote" page to open the voting form. ・Enter your email address. ・Choose one of the ten entries, check the box for that entry, and submit your response. ⚠️ If you do not enter an email address, you will be excluded from the gift drawing. Please be sure to view the original posts by the applicants before voting.🤗 1. @yamabico_san (photo 2) 2. @gokase_entertainment (photo 3) 3. @photo_ay_umi (photo 4) 4. @mgm_1228 (photo 5) 5. @eco9syu_sekiryo (photo 6) 6. @goto0619 (photo 7) 7. @fowafuwarin5 (photo 8) 8. @thusandleavis (photo 9) 9. @mas8787a (photo 10) 10. @photo_ay_umi (photo 11) We look forward to receiving many votes from everyone 🥰

🎿 Ski Resort Final Event 🏂 Sunday, March 9 was the last day of operations for Gokase Highland Ski Resort ❄️ Under a clear sky, a big prize drawing took place from 11:00 AM 🎁 Cheers erupted each time the winning numbers for lavish prizes were announced, and the drawing ended in great excitement 😆✨ After the drawing, visitors immediately enjoyed the last runs of the season on the slopes 🎿 Gokase Highland Ski Resort, revived this season ❄️ Thanks to everyone, we were able to operate safely through today 😊 Thank you very much 🥰 We look forward to seeing you again next season!!

Inochi no Hi Project in Gokase Town On Saturday, March 8, I visited the "Inochi no Hi Project in Gokase Town" held at the Gokase Town Welfare Center 🤗 Although the event took a four-year pause during the COVID-19 pandemic, it has continued since the year after the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake 😌 The beautiful event invited people to remember those affected by earthquakes and other disasters across Japan, to keep those memories alive, and to cherish life ✨ A donation box to raise funds for disaster recovery was placed at the venue, and visitors kindly contributed what they could ☺️ There were stalls selling tasty snacks and cute crafts, and the venue was lively 🥳 On stage, hosted by members of the organizing G Ongakutai, a full program of singing and dancing entertained the audience 🤩✨ Many songs in the lineup carried messages for disaster-hit areas, creating a program unique to a charity event 😌👏 The finale featured everyone joining in to sing "Hana wa Saku" together 🎶 At the end of the event, children lit wax balls in a lighting ceremony, and wrapped in gentle light, all attendees observed a moment of silence. May the thoughts from Gokase Town reach those in the disaster-affected areas…🙏

[❄️ Introducing photos submitted to Winter Gokase 2025 — Final installment ❄️] The Gokase Tourism Association held the “#Winter Gokase 2025” photo event on its Instagram account through February 28. This is the final showcase of the entries we received.🥹✨ @fowafuwarin5 @mas8787a @mgm_1228 (in no particular order) Making its long-awaited debut is Unoko Falls✨ These lovely photos capture the ski area where snow still lingers and the surrounding great outdoors.👏 Thank you all for so many submissions.😭 It was a harsh winter, but many of the winter photos felt warm and heartening.😊☀️

Recruitment of participants for ❗️ the mountain opening mountaineering event ⛰️ Implementation of the 2025 (Reiwa 7) Mountain Opening Mountaineering Meeting. * Traditional Japanese straw raincoat participation in Shinto rituals is free of charge. ⭐︎Date: Saturday, April 12 2025 (Reiwa 7) ⭐︎ Participation fee 1000 yen (insurance fee and amulet included) * Traditional Japanese straw raincoat participation in Shinto rituals does not require application. ⭐︎Course Descent of the Heavenly Grandson Course ⭐︎ How to apply Please Phone or use the application form below. ⭐︎Application deadline: Monday, April 7 All the staff will climb slowly, so 🔰 it is a mountaineering event that ❗️🥳 beginners can climb with peace of mind 【Notes】 * The age is up to 70 years old, but those who usually exercise can participate even if they are over 70 years old. * Junior high school students and younger must be accompanied by a guardian. *Please prepare your own lunch and emergency food. * As soon as the Shinto ritual is over, you will move to the Trailhead (5th Sabo Dam) by Car. * It will be decided by light rain, but if it is canceled by the evening of the 11th (Friday) at the discretion of the secretariat, we will contact you. Even in the event of cancellation, the Shinto ritual will be performed. [Application form] https://docs.google.com/.../1ik84ozPLmto7PgPEXKrGsPI.../edit... 【Application and Inquiries】 Takaharucho Tourism Association 0984-42-4560

New Spot for Climbing Mt. Morotsuka "Higashi no Kamimae Ruins" It was once a place where ascetics gathered and was called Soragighara. Members of the Township History Research Group in Morotsuka Village conducted a survey and made a signboard at the site last year. It takes about 5 minutes to descend the ridge that extends in a northeast direction from the summit, and the view is perfect at the rocky peak with a good view. ◎ The routes may be difficult to understand along the way, so please check the map Information before going out. #miyazaki #miyazaki_countryside #morotsukavillage #morotsuka #Miyazaki Prefecture #patchwork Village #Morotsuka Village #Morotsuka Village Tourism Association #Morotsukayama Mountaineering #Morotsukayama Mountain Opening 2025 #Mountain Opening #Morotsukayama Mountain Opening

Today, Thursday 13th, at 13:40, Nana Star Row Car 🚃 Car 😝👌 star buses also stop at Takaharu Station The course of Oike and Kirishima Higashi Shrine will be guided by Takaharu Town Tourist Guides! Car parking: Free

NICE TO MEET EVERYONE WHO WATCHES COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! This is the Morotsuka Village Tourism Association. From now on, we will introduce the charm of Morotsuka Village in the northern part of Miyazaki Prefecture, so please look forward to it! First of all, I would like to introduce Morotsuka Village. ◆◇◆What is Morotsuka Village in Miyazaki Prefecture◆◇◆ Morotsuka Village in Miyazaki Prefecture is located almost in the middle of the Central Kyushu Mountains, and 90% of the area of the Village is mountain forest. There is almost no flat land, and 84 settlements are scattered on the slopes of the mountains. Under the slogan of the Forestry Establishment Village, Morotsuka Village has been promoting the creation of forests while protecting mountains, creating forests, and living in harmony with Nature while receiving the blessings of forests. This is a "village that lives in the forest" while thinking not only about ourselves but also about each other, not only about the present but also about the generations of our children and grandchildren. ◆◇◆Transportation Access◆◇◆ * About 2 hours by Car from Kumamoto Airport * About 2 hours by Car from Miyazaki Airport *Train from Miyazaki Airports to JR Hyugashi Station (65 minutes by limited express) and route bus from Hyugashi Station to Morotsuka Village. If you Use a Train or local bus, take a local bus (Miyazaki Kotsu) from JR Nippo Main Line Hyugashi Station to the center of the Morotsuka Village "Morotsuka" in about 90 minutes. *Please take a bus to "Kamishiiba" or "Tsukahara". (For route buses, please check the Miyazaki Kotsu website.) * For current traffic restriction Information, please check from [Moroka Navi HP]. ◆◇◆Sightseeing spot of Morotsuka Village, Miyazaki Prefecture◆◇◆ ■Eco Museum Morotsuka Shiitake Mushroom 21 It is a facility that houses the office of the Morotsuka Village Tourism Association and the restaurant Donkotei. It used to be a facility where you can learn about shiitake mushrooms, but now it has been renovated as a tourist information and exchange place. On the opposite bank across the Hotaru Bridge, there is a Honzon of Kunugi Jizo made from a kunugi tree that is more than 100 years old. You can go down to the riverbank to eat lunch or play in the Clear streams. ◇◆◇Accommodations in Morotsuka Village, Miyazaki Prefecture◇◆◇ ■ Forest in the Sky Pond Kubo Green Park Located around 800 meters above elevation in Morotsuka Village, which is rich in rich in nature, is Ikenokubo Green Park, a forest in the sky with a log house and a campsite. From the Hyuga direction, there is one car lane all the way, so even those who are not used to driving on mountain roads can rest assured. Athletic, grass skiing, and Putting golf are also available, so parents and children from small children can enjoy it together. A scenic cross-country Course is also nearby, There is a perfect for a leisurely stroll while feeling the Nature. It takes about 5 minutes by car to the popular "Akisei Observatory" with a superb view. It is also recommended to wake up early and watch the Sunrise. If you're lucky, you might even see a sea of clouds. Spring in full bloom, summer greenery and coolness unique to high places, fiery autumn Autumn leaves and quiet winter with flickering snow. It is a place where you can relax and enjoy the scenery and nature of the four seasons that change every day. ■Mt. Morotsuka Mountain stream village Of the two campsites in the Village, one is here, Morotsukayama Mountain Stream no Sato. It is a Rich in nature place where Mt. Morotsuka, which is one of the One Hundred Famous Mountains of Kyushu, rises. There is also a river park nearby adjacent to a Water Valleys with abundant water, and in summer you can enjoy playing in the river and fishing (a fishing ticket is required). ■ Forest Kominka Yamashigi no Mori "Yamashigi no Mori" is an kominka house in the forest consisting of two buildings, "Shishigi" built in the Taisho period and "Nakashigi" built in the Meiji era. It is in the mountains that you can finally reach by climbing a winding mountain road, but it is surprising because it was an important place for transportation in the old days when there were no cars or roads. Today, it is active as an experiential exchange facility where residents of cities and mountain villages deepen exchanges through agricultural work experience. In the sky where you can reach the sky, nostalgic scenery such as the sunken hearth, Goemon bath, and furnace remain. ■ Forest Kominka House Series An old-fashioned private house where you can enjoy the breath of Nature. Surrounded by mountains, surrounded by the warmth of trees, the smell of soil, and the sunken hearth surrounded by everyone, there is a place of relaxation that anyone can easily experience, where you can feel the symbiosis between people and nature, the slow stream of time, and the "Kominka in the Forest" in Morotsuka. 【List of Kominka houses】 ・Yamasigi no Mori ・Heida no Sato ・Cherry blossom tsubone ・Yoshiya ◇◆◇Specialty products of Morotsuka Village, Miyazaki Prefecture◇◆◇ ■ Shiitake mushrooms Cultivation mushrooms are cultivated using 100% raw wood raised in rich forests, which have been certified as a World Agricultural Heritage Site. Please enjoy the delicious and aroma raw wood shiitake mushrooms that Moroka Village is proud of in the world. ■ Nectar of 100 flowers in the forest It is the honey of Japanese bees that the honey hunters of Morotsuka love. Nature beekeeping in the mountains is a Minamoto of all kinds of flowers. The nectar stored by bees, called "100 flower nectar," is highly nutritious and has a rich taste and aroma. The amount of honey that one bee produces in its lifetime is very precious, as it is said to be "one spoonful". ■ Wormwood dumplings Fresh wormwood nurtured by clean air and water is collected from the mountains and made using the traditional method, and wormwood Dango is an exquisite sweet that can only be tasted in the countryside. 　The Aroma of wormwood that fills your mouth and the bean paste kneaded with skilled skills are exquisite. ■ Processed goods of the mountains A women's association active in villages scattered in the mountains of Morotsuka Village. In the workshop set up in the village, the mothers of the Village work hard every day. Ingredients harvested in the mountains, such as miso, yuzu pepper, konjac and dressing, are used as raw materials to create the "deliciousness" of the Village. Fun as we continue to broadcasting the charm of Morotsuka Village, which is rich in Rich in nature!

Kumamon Island finally appears in the popular game Fortnite!! The hugely popular online game Fortnite has introduced a new stage set in Kumamoto called Kumamon Island!! Kumamon Island isn’t the usual shooting game; it’s a business simulation game!! The game’s story centers on Kumamoto’s major tourist spots, including Kumamoto Castle, and features a plot in which players help Kumamon and friends build a giant Kumamon robot!! One of the tourist sites featured is the Manda Pit!! Enjoy the game together with the adorable Kumamon♪ Island code 0507-8727-1071 https://www.pref.kumamoto.jp/kumamonisland/...

I took a picture of Nagasaki-kunchi held in Nagasaki City at a venue called Ryokusho. I took this photo because I wanted to be able to feel the power I felt with my eyes in the photo.

🏯✨ Yurukyara of Izumi City "Tsuru no Shin" ✨🐦 Do you know Izumi City's official character "Tsuru no Shin"? 👀 The other day, he appeared on TV, became a hot topic in some circles, and became a little more well-known (?). I did ✨ A character born in Izumi City, the destination of No.1 in Japan! 🦢⚔️ Tsurunoshin plays a major role 💨 every day to convey the charm of Izumi City I appear at Events, promote Izumi City, and do my best 💪🔥 to let everyone know about Izumi If you see one, please call out 📢😊 "Tsuru no shin!" You are also welcome to take pictures with us 📸✨

Plum Blossom Update – Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum as of March 10 The Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum, located in Asaji Town, Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu, sits within a park where many plum trees are planted. Overall, the blossoms have progressed and are now at their best viewing stage. They are blooming beautifully, so this week should be a great time to visit. Location: Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum (1587-11 Ikeda, Asaji Town, Bungo Ono City) Parking: Available (free) Opening hours: 10:00–17:00 Closed: Mondays (the following day if Monday is a public holiday) The Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum will be temporarily closed from March 17 to March 28, 2025, but the park remains open for walking. ■■■ Access to central Bungo Ono City ■■■ From JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture: about a 3-hour drive From JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture: about a 2-hour drive From JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture: about a 1 hour 20 minute drive From JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture: about a 1 hour 20 minute drive ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■ https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250312asakurahumiokinenkan/...

Cycling with views of the Ariake Sea! Why not take a slow, leisurely tour of the town? Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering familiar sights, new discoveries in everyday scenery can enrich your life. Feel the Ariake Sea breeze as you cycle and take in Arao Tidal Flats in Kumamoto Prefecture, Mt. Unzen in Nagasaki Prefecture, MtTaradake in Saga Prefecture, and the giant cranes standing at the shipyard in Nagasu. You can visit Nekodaimyojin (Nekomiya), a smiling seaside bakery, a secluded adult café perfect for long conversations, and a soba café. If you extend your ride to Yotsuyama Shrine, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Ariake Sea from the hilltop. Rental bicycle locations ◆ Arao Tidal Flats Waterfowl & Wetland Center: 20-2 Kuramitsu, Arao City ※ Closed on Mondays and during the New Year holidays (December 29–January 3). If Monday is a holiday, the next open day will be observed. 0968-57-7444 ramsar@city.arao.lg.jp https://www.city.arao.lg.jp/kurashi/shisetsu/higata/... ◆ Kingyo to Koi no Sato Hiroba: 3150 Nagasu, Tamana District ※ Closed during the New Year holidays (December 28–January 3) Rental period 3 hours Lending hours 9:00–16:00 (reception until 15:00) ※ Except on days when the handling facilities are closed Eligible users High school students and older Persons whose safety is not impaired for bicycle use Application procedure Present a document that verifies your name and address, such as a driver’s license, health insurance card, or student ID, and complete the rental application form with the required information. Return location Return to the facility where you completed the rental procedures. Bad weather Rentals may be suspended in bad weather. Transfer and subletting You may not transfer or sublet the rental bicycle to another person. Helmets Wearing a helmet is requested when using the rental bicycle. Helmets are also available for loan. #Rental bicycle #Ariake Sea #Arao Tidal Flats Waterfowl & Wetland Center #Kingyo to Koi no Sato Hiroba #Cycling https://www.city.arao.lg.j... p/kurashi/shisetsu/higata/ https://www.city.arao.lg.jp/kurashi/shisetsu/higata/...

A new Aratama Flower Tour map is now available. A leaflet introducing spots to enjoy seasonal flowers and autumn leaves in the Arao–Tamana area of Kumamoto Prefecture (commonly called the “Aratama region”)—covering two cities and four towns: Arao City, Tamana City, Gyokuto Town, Nagomi Town, Nankan Town, and Nagasu Town—is now ready! There are many places to enjoy seasonal flowers 🌸 and autumn foliage 🍁! Why not visit the Aratama region to enjoy its sightseeing spots while feeling the changing seasons? The leaflet is distributed by the Tamana Regional Promotion Bureau of Kumamoto Prefecture and the two cities and four towns of the Aratama region. For details, see the Kumamoto Prefecture website (https://www.pref.kumamoto.jp/soshiki/174/201934.html)....

At the venue of the Nobeoka Flower Story Konohana Walk, which was Held in over two days on Saturday, February 22 and Sunday, February 23, the "Mini Sasuke Course Challenge," which is very popular every year, was Held in. In the "Mini Sasuke Course Challenge", where challengers from all over the country gather every year, Susuke legends such as Makoto Nagano appear! With the support of five Sasuke legends, Makoto Nagano, Masashi Hioki, Yusuke Morimoto, Shingo Yamamoto, and Makoto's eldest son, Makoto, the participants who won the lottery in advance took on the challenge of a mini but real-life Sasuke Course. This year, too, the "Mini Sasuke Course Complete Conquest Achiever" appeared, and the venue was Gari a lot of excitement.

A coal mine trolley will run at Manda Pit! The coal mine trolley displayed at the Manda Pit coal preparation plant will run! Of the two displayed cars, No. 12 will run. The coal mine trolley used the Miike Coal Mine private railway to carry coal mined at Manda Pit for export from Miike Port. Be sure to see the trolley as it glides along in pleasant operation. Scheduled running times Every 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month 10:30 11:30 12:30 13:30 14:30 15:30 Manda Pit Postal code 864-0001 200-2 Haramanda, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture ◆Closed: Mondays (the following day if Monday is a public holiday) and during the New Year holidays ◆Admission fees: Adults 410 yen, High school students 310 yen, Elementary and junior high students 210 yen, Infants free *Group rates available (20 people or more) ◆Opening hours: 9:30–17:00 (last entry 16:30) ◆Phone: 0968-57-9155

On February 22 (Sat) and 23 (Sun), 2025, the 10th "Nobeoka Flower Story 2025 Konohana Walk" was held in on the Gokase River riverbed! Although the flowering of the cherry blossoms was delayed due to the effects of the nationwide cold wave, it was very crowded with various projects such as Nobeoka's proud Gourmet, stage Events, field points, human-powered Car, Workshop, Experience Corner by the Self-Defense Forces and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, and a children's Events. In addition, the "Nishi Township Don Bus Tour" by Takao Nishi Township, the great-grandson of "Nishi Township Don", was also held, and it was a great success. There is a very much ✨️ to everyone who came to the booth * Scenes on the day of the Events can be seen on the "Nobeoka Hanamonogatari Official Website". Nobeoka Flower Story 2025 will continue in the future, and we will Held in "Wai Wai Flower Expo" from March 20 (Thursday) to April 6 (Sunday) at Nobeoka Castle Site Shiroyama Park, and "Wai Wai Gourmet Expo" on March 22 (Saturday). Here you can 🌺 see Someiyoshino and Camellia japonica counties, one of Japan's three major districts Please check the flowering status on the official website of Nobeoka Flower Story and the story of this Account! We look ☺️ forward to seeing you there

Manda Pit is also hugely popular as a cosplay photo spot! Arao City's symbol Manda Pit In 2015 (Heisei 27) it was registered as part of the Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution World Heritage. The Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution—iron and steel, shipbuilding, and coal mining—represent the first successful spread of the Industrial Revolution from Europe to the non-Western world. Between the mid-19th century and the early 20th century, Japan achieved rapid industrialization in just over half a century. Now preserved as valuable industrial remains, Manda Pit has newly become extremely popular as a cosplay photo location!! Many cosplayers and photographers use the site. Visitors and staff alike find themselves captivated by the authentic costumes and makeup. Here are some precious off‑shot photos. When a shoot starts, the site feels different from the Manda Pit we usually see as staff, and that gives us a strange, wonderful feeling. Manda Pit is perfect for cosplay photography, offering everything from striking action shots to nostalgic scenes. You’re sure to get photos you’ll love—highly recommended. We look forward to your visit. Information Filming requires advance reservation and a photo shoot application form. Please download the application form from the Arao City website. For changing rooms and luggage storage please use the Manda Coal Mine Museum (paid). This also requires advance reservation. Please contact the Manda Coal Mine Museum for room availability. Manda Coal Mine Museum: Phone 0968-64-1300 If you have any questions, please contact Manda Pit Station. ◆ Manda Pit Station 〒864-0001 200-2 Haramanda, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture ◆ Phone: 0968-57-9155 ◆ FAX: 0968-57-9156 ◆ Closed: Mondays (the following day if Monday is a holiday), and during the New Year holidays ◆ Hours: 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (last entry 4:30 p.m.) ◆ Admission fees: Manda Pit ruins / Adults: ¥410, High school students: ¥310, Elementary and junior high students: ¥210, Preschool children: free ◆ Access: Bus / 8 minutes from JR Arao Station ◆ Parking: 5 large buses, 3 medium buses, 72 passenger cars #Kumamoto #World Heritage #World Cultural Heritage #Miike Coal Mine #Manda Pit #Manda Coal Mine Museum #cosplay #photo spot #Arao City website

What did the mine baths look like? At the Miike Coal Mine Manda Pit there is a newly opened Safety Lamp Room and Bathhouse that opened to the public in fiscal 2024. This bathhouse is the facility that was used from around 1951 (Showa 26), about 74 years after coal extraction stopped at Manda Pit, until 1997 (Heisei 9). Because this bathhouse served the small number of miners who performed maintenance work underground, it is different from the large bathhouses from Manda Pit’s heyday. Although smaller in scale, it served the same purpose of washing off the grime from underground work. Because coal dust that stuck to workers during work was hard to wash off, the washing area was separate from the tubs, and the tubs were divided into the "first bath" and an "up-bath (kakari-yu)" used after cleaning oneself thoroughly. (For details about the large bathhouse used by about 3,500 miners at Manda Pit’s peak, guided tours at Manda Pit offer more information, so please consider using a guide.) The Miike Coal Mine had abundant groundwater and required constant pumping. You might think that plentiful groundwater would be suitable for filling the tubs, but the water used for bathing was tap water. The reason was that water drawn from underground contained fine fragments of coal and other materials that posed a risk of injury, so it was not used at Manda Pit. On Hashima (Gunkanjima), water had to be brought in by supply ship from the mainland until a submarine water pipeline opened in 1953 (Showa 28). At that time, sea water was boiled for baths, and fresh water was reserved for the final "up-bath (kakari-yu)." A scene in the 2024 drama "Diamonds Sleeping in the Sea" also shows miners using the bathhouse after finishing underground work, so please pay attention to that when you watch.

Plum Bloom Report — Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum as of March 6 The Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum in Asaji Town, Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu Many plum trees are planted throughout the park. Overall, the blossoms are progressing and looking beautiful. We will report on the blooming status as it develops. Location: Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum (1587-11 Ikeda, Asaji Town, Bungo Ono City) Parking: Available (free) Opening hours: 10:00–17:00 Closed: Mondays (if a public holiday falls on Monday, closed the following day) The museum will be temporarily closed from March 17 to March 28, 2025, but the park’s plum trees will still be viewable. ■■■ Access to central Bungo Ono City ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Bungo Ono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■ https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250306asakurahumio/...

The theme park with the most attractions in Japan Greenland, one of the largest amusement parks in western Japan with a grounds area of 550,000 square meters Beyond roller coasters and thrill rides, more than 70 varied attractions include shooting games and haunted houses! Don’t miss the limited-time events, fireworks displays, and popular character shows! Two new attractions opened at Greenland in spring 2025✨ Enjoy a full day at Greenland. Greenland Midorigaoka, Arao City, Kumamoto 864-0011 TEL: 0968-66-1112

2025.02.15 Mitsui Miike Tanji Mandakeng

HANABI Festival at Greenland!! ＼This spring’s HANABI Festival is back／ Enjoy fireworks lighting up the spring night sky✨ Of course, the attractions will run at full operation until 8:00 PM!! * Please note that some areas will be off-limits during the fireworks display. * Viewing is free (park admission required separately) Date: Saturday, March 29 * In case of severe weather, the event will be postponed to Sunday, March 30. Time: Fireworks start at 7:30 PM Opening hours: 9:30 AM–8:00 PM Recommended viewing spot: Pond Front Plaza For guests arriving by car If you come by car, please cooperate by refraining from parking on the street or leaving your vehicle in nearby facilities without permission. Greenland Midorigaoka, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture 864-0011 TEL: 0968-66-1112

Hello! This is the Yamaga Hot Spring Tourism Association. Yamaga Hot Spring is a famous hot spring with a history of more than 1,300 years located in the northern part of Kumamoto Prefecture, and is characterized by the spring quality of "alkaline simple hot spring" with a high skin-beautifying effect. It is colorless and transparent, tasteless and odorless, and the spring temperature is 39~45 degrees Celsius. This account will post recommendations and latest information on Yamaga Hot Spring, so please follow us! ◆What is Yamaga Hot Spring in Kumamoto Prefecture? There are plenty of Accommodations where you can enjoy hot spring water straight from the source, open-air baths where you can Use Day trip, and family baths, which are popular not only with tourists but also with Local people. The cityscape full of historical atmosphere Unfolds, and Sightseeing spots such as "Yachiyoza Theater" and "Buzen Highway" are popular. ◆Access to Yamaga Hot Spring Yamaga Hot Spring is easily Accessed from Fukuoka. Access by Car: Use the Kyushu Expressway and get off at "KikuWater IC" or "Ueki IC", which takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes from Fukuoka City. Access by bus: Use the highway bus "Hinokuni Bus" from Fukuoka Tenjin to "Yamaga Bus Center" in about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Hot spring and sightseeing spots are scattered within walking distance of the bus center. ◆Historical background of Yamaga Hot Spring Yamaga, which has long been a hot spring town, flourished as a post town on the Buzen Highway during the Edo period, and many travelers stopped by Hot Spring Cure. In addition, in the Meiji era, the playhouse "Yachiyoza Theater" was built, which increased its cultural appeal as a hot spring resort. Even today, it Fascination many tourists as a Hot spring resort where history and tradition come alive. ◆Popular Sightseeing spots of Yamaga Hot Spring ・Buzen Highway The Buzen Highway, which passes through the center of Yamaga Hot Spring, is a historic townscape that flourished as a post town in the Edo period. Along the Stone pavement road, white-walled Machiya and Kominka houses are lined up, and you can stroll while enjoying the retro atmosphere. Cafes and souvenir shops are scattered around, making it a great Spot to buy Yamaga's Specialty products. ・Sakura-yu Hot Spring Sakura-yu Hot Spring, which can be said to be the symbol of Yamaga Hot Spring, is a public bath that has been around since the Edo period, and was restored in 2012 as one of the largest wooden hot springs in Kyushu using traditional construction methods in Japan. The spacious Large Public Bath retains the quaintness of the wooden architecture and allows you to enjoy hot spring water straight from the source. You can easily enjoy the Hot Spring in between sightseeing. ・Yachiyoza Theater The Yachiyoza Theater, built in Meiji 43 (1910), was designated as a National Important Cultural Property in 1988 (Showa 63). It features gorgeous Ceiling Paintings and a revolving stage, and performances are still held today. You can also Visiting the site the Inside the Facility and enjoy the atmosphere of the historic theater. ・Yamaga Lantern Folk Art Museum It is a facilities that exhibits the traditional craft of Yamaga City, "Yamaga lanterns". Inside the facility, you can see the beauty of the golden lanterns made of delicate Washi paper up close and learn about the production process. ・Kongojoji Temple / Stone Gate The Kongojoji Temple, which has a history of 1,300 years, There are Powerful Presence stone gate reminiscent of a foreign country. ◆Yamaga Hot Spring Specialty products and Souvenirs Gourmet ・Lantern Monaka The famous confectionery "Lantern Monaka", which represents Yamaga Hot Spring, is a golden lantern-shaped monaka. The crispy crust is filled with elegant sweet bean paste, making it a popular Souvenir. ・Yamaga Yokan Yamaga Yokan, which is made using the traditional manufacturing method, is characterized by its gentle sweetness and moist texture. It goes well with green tea and coffee, and is also appreciated as a gift. ◆Yamaga Hot Spring Events and Festivals ・Yamaga Lantern Festival Held in every year on August 15 and 16, the Yamaga Lantern Festival is one of the one-of-the-best summer traditions in Kyushu, where the entire town is decorated with fantastic lights. The "Thousand-Lantern Dance," in which more than 1,000 dancers dance gracefully, is a spectacular spectacle. ・Yamaga Lantern Romance・ Hyakka Hyakusai Held in every winter, "Yamaga Lantern Romance Hyakka Hyakusai" is an event that welcomes everyone to the historic townscape with fantastic lights with art installations made of Japanese umbrellas and bamboo. Light up the Buzen Highway at night, so you can enjoy a different photogenic scenery than usual. ◆Yamaga Hot Spring, Kumamoto Prefecture Enjoy sightseeing Yamaga Hot Spring is a Hot spring resort with a Spring quality Hot Spring known as Hot water for beautiful skin and a historical Sightseeing spot. It is a popular hot spring resort with plenty of open-air baths and family baths that can be enjoyed not only for accommodation but also for day trips, and is always at the top of the hot spring rankings. Please come to Yamaga Hot Spring, where you can enjoy not only hot springs but also gourmet food, traditional crafts, and festivals.

【Connecting Ogida in Ubuyama Village】 The Fan Terraced Rice Fields in Ubuyama Village, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture, are made by clearing eroded land in the mountains and are created in a contour shape by taking advantage of the fan-shaped terrain. The Water for the Paddy Field is directly derived from the Famous water Yamabuki Water source 1,300 Meter upstream, Water Clear streams that can also be Use as a beverage Water. Although there are difficulties in maintenance and management due to water water leaks, disasters, etc., since most of them are earthen water channels, we Cultivation Rice with a unique taste due to high-quality red clay born from nature and weather with temperature differences. It has been selected as one of the 100 best rice terraces in Japan and one of the 100 best Rice growers. Interested parties who are interested in growing delicious Rice in Ubuyama Village, why don't you experience it with the farmers who manage Ogida throughout the year? Rice can be purchased after harvest. Let's make the Rice we eat every day with our activities to pass on beautiful Nature to future generations! You can experience everything from rice planting to rice harvesting, which is planned later. Information will be provided as needed. 2025-04-12 (Sat) Meet at 8:45 and start at 9:00 Meeting point: Yamabuki Water source We clean the water channel from the Yamabuki Water source that streams into Ogita. Please come in clothes that allow you to work. * Lunch box fee and leisure insurance fee are included in the participation fee. What to prepare: Work gloves, hat, drink, garbage bag, boots Participation fee: 2000 yen ■Click here to apply 〒869-2703 468-4 Yamaga, Ubuyama Village, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture 0967-25-2200 *The deadline is Monday, March 31st. How to get to the Ogi rice terraces From the direction of Kumamoto by Car, turn left at the traffic light at the end of "Roadside Station Kaguraen" (Hano, Aso City) along National Route 57, enter the Prefectural Road Minamioguni ~ Hano Line (Prefectural Road 40), and proceed 4.0 Kilometers to the T-junction. Turn right there and proceed for about 1.0 Kilometers, you will and the station on your left, cross the "Hirose Bridge" (Tamarai River) ahead, turn right immediately and you will There are Ubuyama Town hall on your right. There are about 1.0 Kilometers past the tunnel at the top of the road on the left side of the three-way road in front of the Town hall, and there is an intersection with the Village Road Ubuyama ~ Tajiri Line. Turn left there and proceed for about 2.0 Kilometers and you will There are "Otomiya" and "Yamabuki Water source" signs. Turn right there and proceed for about 1.0 minutes to Otomiya Village and Otomiya Shrine, and after about 2.0 Kilometers, turn right and go about 1.0 Kilometers to There are Ogi Rice Terraces. #Kumamoto #Rice Terraces #Ubuyama #Rice planting experience #Rice harvesting experience #Rice making #Aso District #Fan Terraced Rice Fields #Water cleaning work

Monday, March 24, 2025 Location: Futoria in Ubuyama ✿〈Morning session〉10:00-13:00 Learning and sowing. (Higotai, Aso yarrow, Ominaeshi, Fujibakama, etc.) Maintenance of flower gardens. Participation fee: 2,500 yen (With flowery lunch box and herbal tea) 〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜 ✿〈Afternoon Session〉 13:00-16:00 Open Farm 🌿 Tea drinking, chatting, and having fun 😊 at your leisure ★ Lives in Ubuyama@maaaasaaaaeeee Illustrator Masae's "My Cotton Pouch with Floral Pattern" Production Experience ♪ The experience fee is 1,000 yen per person. (In the case of additional production, 1 pouch 500 yen) ★ 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) 1,000 yen each (tax included) No reservation required. 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 1 pack 500 yen. (Normally 1,200 yen per pack) We are receiving applications little by little. The morning session will be closed when the capacity is reached. The afternoon session is an open farm ♪ We hope you will feel free to come and visit us. Afternoon Workshop & Aroma Relaxation does not require reservations. Thank you for 🙇 your participation.

Coal Mine Train Photo Exhibition 2025 Now Open! We are exhibiting photographs that capture the many faces of coal mine trains. Please come and visit! ◆Dates: Sunday, March 2, 2025 – Sunday, March 30, 2025 ◆Hours: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM ※Closed: Every Monday (closed the following Tuesday if Monday is a public holiday) ◆Venue: Manda Coal Mine Museum, 213 Hara Manda, Arao City ◆Contact: Manda Pit Station, 200-2 Hara Manda, Arao City ☏0968-57-9155 Organizer: Manda Coal Mine Museum Co-organizer: NPO Coal Mine Train Preservation Society

Recommended for outings! Introducing Arao’s sightseeing spots! Discover Arao’s top spots! Why not come visit Arao? Greenland Kyushu’s largest and most famous amusement park! It hosts a variety of events and fireworks festivals!! A new attraction opens in March 2025. Check the official website for details Miike Coal Mine Manda Pit This former coal mine, which supported Japan’s Industrial Revolution, is also listed as a World Cultural Heritage site. The sturdy red-brick buildings and the machines and equipment used at the time have been preserved, letting you feel the era when the mines prospered. There is also a Manda Pit VR viewing corner! Arao Tidal Flats Waterfowl & Wetland Center This facility promotes the charms of the Arao Tidal Flats, designated a Ramsar Wetland, through the creatures of the mudflats. A tank reproducing the mudflat lets you observe mudflat creatures such as mudskippers, and there are displays introducing waterfowl with panels, a kids’ corner, and an observation area. Arao Tidal Flats From the Arao Tidal Flats you can even see Mt. Unzen across the Ariake Sea. You can spot a variety of marine life and migratory birds resting their wings. The sunset sinking and dyeing the sky and sea is also a spectacular sight. Birthplace of the Miyazaki Brothers / Miyazaki Brothers Museum The museum clearly exhibits the achievements and the exchanges between the four brothers—Hachiro Miyazaki, Toten, and others—who devoted themselves to the dawn of modern Asia, and Sun Yat‑sen, the father of the Chinese revolution. The morning drama series Hanako and Anne featured characters modeled on Toten’s son Ryusuke Miyazaki and his wife Yanagiwara Byakuren, which became a topic of conversation. Kiln tours including Ojiro ware In Arao City, various kilns produce works, including Ojiro ware with a history of over 400 years. Why not go out and look for a favorite piece of pottery? #Sightseeing spots #Greenland #Arao Tidal Flats Waterfowl & Wetland Center #Ojiro ware #Arao Tidal Flats #Birthplace of the Miyazaki Brothers #Arao #arao #Kumamoto Prefecture #Kumamoto #Kumamoto sightseeing #kumamoto #Kumamoto #Kyushu #kyusyu #Sightseeing #information #Manda Pit #manda ko #World Heritage #Ariake Sea #tidal flats #marugoto arao #Tamana #Omuta

📢The 9th of March! Astro Arm! DASH！！ Izumi City ✨ 📃 Project name: DASH Local PR Division ~Kumamoto-Kagoshima Hisatsu Orenji Railway~ 📺 Broadcast date and time: Sunday, March 9, 2025 (Reiwa 7) from 7 p.m. In order to liven up the local railway, we will use the specialties collected in each place to create the program's Original Ekiben. This time, the Hisatsu Orenji Railway will be the stage, and while touring between Yatsushiro Station ~ Satsumagawanai Station, we will introduce the specialties of each region and the charm of Sightseeing spots. What kind of charm of Izumi City will it broadcasting!? What kind of specialties do you get? And what kind of Ekiben will be created, which is full of charm along the Orenji Railway!? If you are interested, please watch the 😊 program