Thursday, October 3 — G Class: Tea Pan-Frying Experience at Miyazaki Sabou🍵 Today, third graders from four elementary schools across Gokase Town gathered at Miyazaki Sabou for a G class✍️💡…so I was able to observe their visit👀✨ We had considered skipping the tea-picking experience because of light rain, but the kids’ energy cleared the sky enough for a short session, so we did a little picking👏👏👏 Chanting “one bud, two leaves!” everyone happily hand-picked tea leaves🌿 After that, the group split into three teams to do 1) a factory tour, 2) a pan-frying experience, and 3) a tasting session✍️✨ 1) The factory was full of first-time sights! Different tea aromas drifted through the air, and just watching the tour felt soothing🤤💕 When told that a single tea leaf can become green tea, oolong tea, or black tea, the kids gasped “Whaaaat!?” with perfect reactions😳💮💮💮 lol 2) The pan-frying experience stemmed from what they heard on the tour: machines roast leaves at 200–300°C, so the kids nervously asked, “Is it hot!?”🤣 But trying it turned out to be fun🤩 They watched, fascinated, as the leaves dried and released a pleasant aroma, commenting “I like this smell!” and “But it’s tiring~💦” while learning the pan-fried tea production process😊 3) They learned about types of tea utensils and how to use them, the ideal water temperature for brewing, and other tips for making tasty tea, then each brewed and tasted pan-fried tea themselves🍵✨ One child said it smelled like corn soup, which surprised me, but apparently pan-fried tea is often said to have a corn-like flavor😮💡 The children’s sensitivities never cease to amaze me👏 They compared four teas by taste and tried to identify which was pan-fried tea, oolong, hojicha, or black tea. Many struggled, confused by the familiar colors and aromas🤣 Did you know? Taiwanese and Gokase oolong teas are closer in color to green tea rather than brown😏✏️ At the end, during the Q&A, the children asked sharp questions to the producers and summarized what they had learned✍️💫 The kids experienced the full charm of Gokase’s pan-fried tea and felt the producers’ passion😌 I hope they take pride in this local specialty and help weave the future of Gokase Town✨

Inukai Stone Buddha (National Historic Site) The Inukai Stone Buddha stands in Inukai Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. The Inukai Stone Buddha is a rock-carved image sculpted into welded tuff from an Aso pyroclastic flow about 90,000 years ago. Based on the style of the figure, it is estimated to have been created in the Kamakura period. Although it represents Fudo Myo-o, its gentle facial expression is striking. The knees appear to sit in a cross-legged position, yet the carving gives the impression of being viewed from above, which is an intriguing technique. The stone Buddha is protected by a shelter, and the cliff above the roof bears the inscription "Ryudenzan." On the cliff to the upper right of the shelter, the large inscription reads "Namu Daishi Henjo Kongo." 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, gourmet food, and accommodations in Bungoono City⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us A link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website is available from our profile. ----------

UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage "Ara Odori" on Sunday, September 29 Ara Odori took place on Sunday, September 29 🐵💫 The sunny weather was almost hot and great for photos, but I imagine it was truly tough for everyone who spent the whole day dancing in costume. Well done to all of you 👏 I was amazed to see so many people each memorizing their roles, dances, and songs to perform a single dance together 😳✨ Elementary school students joined in and danced Ara Odori partway through, and it moved me to see this tradition being passed down to people of all ages 🥹 I heard that Ara Odori used to ban women long ago, but even as the form has changed with the times, I felt a strong community spirit to protect the tradition together 💪✨ Today, students from Gokase Junior High School, who hope to share more of Gokase Town’s charm and traditions and make the town more vibrant, spent the whole day filming the Ara Odori on video for us 📸💡 We should be able to share that video soon, so look forward to it 🤗💕

‘Ichii-gashi in the Interval’ An ichii-gashi (Quercus gilva) in Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. This great tree stands in the mountains of Kiyokawa-cho. It is a centuries-old giant. You find the giant ichii-gashi deep along the forest road that leads to Mount Ontake in Souchi, Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City. Its total height is 12 m, and its trunk circumference at chest height is 10 m. A hollow opens at the trunk’s center, and a small shrine stands inside. It is also designated as a Special Protected Tree by Oita Prefecture. Seeing it in person is an overwhelming experience. Turn left onto the forest road and drive about 500 m, then walk into the cedar woods on the right, cross a stream, and you will reach it in about two minutes. The site is little known and hard to find, so these photos should help convey its atmosphere. For more details, please contact the tourism association. Location: Souchi, Kiyokawa-cho

September 23 (Mon) Red spider lilies announcing the start of autumn 🍁 Hello everyone 🤗! Gokase Town had an intense thunderstorm yesterday ⛈️, and today dawned bright and clear with a refreshing breeze 😌☀️! The atmosphere has completely shifted to autumn 🍁 — it feels so pleasant… ✨ Along the roadside in Gokase Town, as autumn approaches, you can sometimes spot striking red flowers 👀 — red spider lilies ☺️💡 So today I photographed the red spider lilies blooming near Yuuhi-no-Sato Ohashi bridge in the Kuwanochi area 📸💫 As their name suggests, red spider lilies reach their peak around the equinoctial week and are known as flowers that announce the start of autumn; they are also called lycoris or manjusha-ge 🤔 Their vivid red color and distinctive shape really catch the eye 👏 When I was shooting, various swallowtail butterflies swirled around them, creating an incredibly beautiful scene 🥹✨ Because their bulbs are poisonous, people have long planted them around rice paddies, fields, and graves to deter moles, so they carry a traditional Japanese charm that stirs nostalgic feelings when you look at them 😌… Spring and autumn especially bring out the beauty of plants — they are wonderful seasons 🍁. Let’s continue enjoying Japan’s four seasons 🤩✨

CAMP at Kijiya on Wednesday, September 18th⛺ I tried a CAMP experience at Gokase Onsen Mori no Yado Kijiya🔥 We planned to start while it was still light, but the sun set early and we began at dusk🌆 Still, we had a lively barbecue with everyone while watching the sunset from Kijiya on the hilltop🥩 The autumn night breeze felt pleasant and there were fewer bugs, so this season is perfect for camping💡 Come and try camping at Kijiya—it's highly recommended✨

[Friday, September 13] Unoko Falls Today I visited the viewing platform at Unoko Falls. The waterfall had a strong flow today, and it looked impressive from the platform. Mt. Aso was clearly visible from the winery.

Mt. Ontake (Ondake) Mt. Ontake stands in Kiyokawamura, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. Mt. Ontake rises to 568 meters. From the summit you get a superb view that takes in the whole Bungoono area. From the top you can see Mt. Kabeyama, Mt. Aso, the Kuju mountain range, and the Ono mountain area. The summit’s rocks are chart—a sedimentary rock formed from compacted plankton on the Pacific seafloor—that were swept onto the Japanese archipelago by plate movements. Passing through the torii and climbing a gentle stone stairway for about 10 minutes brings you to Mitake Shrine, said to have been founded in 1449, and the birthplace of Mitake Kagura. The rocky hill behind the shrine is called Sennodake and is regarded as a sacred place. When climbing Sennodake, enter with a feeling of gratitude and take great care with your footing, as the route remains rocky. ■■■ 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 😊 A link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website is available from our profile. ----------

Sugao Magaibutsu Sugao Magaibutsu is located in Mie Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. Sugao Magaibutsu consists of five cliff-carved Buddha images created in the late Heian period. They are carved into welded tuff from an Aso pyroclastic flow about 90,000 years old. The carvings are so beautifully and skillfully executed that they compare favorably with wooden Buddhist statues from Kyoto and Nara, and they are designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. They are among the most representative magaibutsu in Bungoono City. Access to Sugao Magaibutsu involves steep stone steps and slopes. Please take great care with your footing. Location: Asase, Mie Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture About a 12-minute drive from JR mie town station (7–8 km) Cultural Property: Nationally designated Important Cultural Property ■■■ Magaibutsu of Bungoono City Magaibutsu are stone Buddha images carved directly into cliffs. Bungoono City has an exceptionally large number of magaibutsu even by national standards. Many of these were carved into welded tuff formed by cooled pyroclastic flows; carvers selected relatively easy-to-work sections without columnar joints. ■■■ Bungoono City Tourist Association The Bungoono City Tourist Association shares information on the city’s attractions and scenic spots. We would be delighted if you follow us. On other social channels we also post information on food, accommodations, and events. For details, please visit the Bungoono City Tourist Association website (link in profile).

Harajiri Falls Harajiri Falls is one of Bungoono City’s signature sights in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. This fall spans 120 m and drops about 20 m, and unlike most waterfalls it lies on flat ground rather than in a mountain valley. It’s easy to visit because it sits right next to Roadside Station Harajiri no Taki. The waterfall formed as river water slowly eroded columnar jointing created by pyroclastic flows over many years. The road above the falls serves as a local residential route, and it’s interesting to see cars, pedestrians, and even the occasional tractor pass by. A promenade and suspension bridge around the falls let you enjoy views from various angles, and you can sometimes see a rainbow depending on the viewpoint. Location: 936-1 Harajiri, Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture (Roadside Station Harajiri no Taki)

Harajiri Falls Harajiri Falls, located in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture in Kyushu, is one of Bungoono City’s signature tourist attractions.

(3/3) I went to "Maruike spring water" in the spring water Town of Kagoshima Prefecture! I had been to Maruike spring water before, but this harvest was a small path that continued from the back of the pond. There was a waterway that I liked, so I went on, and at first it was a beautiful road with a bamboo fence and stylish electric lights, but as I went deeper, I was able to pass by a few private houses, and I was able to take a quiet and absent-minded walk. From the next time I went, I was satisfied that this path was also a set, and it was Maruike spring water in the summer of 2024.

(2/3) I went to "Maruike spring water" in the spring water Town of Kagoshima Prefecture! On this day, there were few ripples, and the bottom of the water was very visible. You can feel the underlying power of Maruike spring water where the dead leaves submerged in the water do not interfere with the scenery. Also, there is a staircase in the water that feels a little algae. If you concentrate only on this area, you can enjoy a submerged sense of the city (maybe). Then there was the moss thriving at a level that you would never see in the water. There were many of them growing as vigorously as broccoli, and it was a forest. of moss.

(1/3) I went to "Maruike spring water" in the spring water Town of Kagoshima Prefecture! It was a wonderful Spot where people came to fetch spring water with a large container, families picnicking on sheets in the shade of the trees beside the pond, and couples looking at the bottom of the water with a smile.

Sugao Stone Buddha Fire Festival This festival takes place in August in Mie Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. Organized mainly by local residents, it is not large in scale but offers a warm, heartfelt atmosphere. The festival begins with Shinto and Buddhist rites. According to legend, the Sugao cliff-carved Buddha statues were carved by an oni (demon), and to thank the oni everyone invites an oni to appear at the festival, where the organizers present it with a letter of appreciation. In the rooster-crowing imitation contest inspired by the legend, participants perform their own impersonations of a rooster’s crow, filling the venue with smiles. On stage, the vigorous drumming of Toyukai and traditional kagura dances take place. In the latter half of the festival, a torch-throwing ritual called 松明投げ (taimatsu-nage) lights a roughly 3-meter-tall pillar pine by tossing burning torches up into it from below, and many children take on the challenge. ■■■ What the Sugao Stone Buddha Fire Festival Is Local residents hold the festival to revitalize the area and raise awareness of the Sugao cliff-carved Buddhas. The rooster-crowing imitation contest stems from a local legend. In the tale, an oni that settled in the area caused trouble and demanded, “Give me the village maiden as my bride!” The troubled village headman consulted a monk, who told the oni, “If you carve five stone Buddhas into the cliff in one night, you may take the girl as your bride; if you fail, leave the village.” Worried villagers checked at night and found the oni carving the fifth statue. They had the village’s rooster imitation expert mimic a rooster’s crow, tricking the oni into thinking morning had arrived, whereupon it fled.

Nice to meet you all and welcome to COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! This is the Matsuura tourism and local products association. Matsuura City, Nagasaki, Matsuura City is a town surrounded by beautiful sea and nature on the Kitamatsuura Peninsula in the northern part of Nagasaki Prefecture. With a population of about 20,000 (as of 2024), it is an area where agriculture and fisheries are thriving that take advantage of abundant Fishery Resources and a warm climate. Matsuura City boasts the No.1 in Japan Landings of horse mackerel, and the Fried horse mackerel made with Fresh horse mackerel Landings Landings at the Local port is Famous nationwide and is known as the "Holy Land of Fried Horse Mackerel". In addition to fishing and agriculture, there are many attractive spots as Sightseeing spots, and you can enjoy the environment rich in Rich in nature. ◇◇Access to Matsuura City, Nagasaki, Matsuura City Fukuoka City - Access to Matsuura City, Nagasaki, Matsuura City Access from Fukuoka City to Matsuura City makes Car and Train Use easy to visit. 【Access by Car】 It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Fukuoka City to Matsuura City. You can Use the Automobile West Kyushu Road and Fun a comfortable Drive while looking at the beautiful Coastline of Fukuoka, Saga, and Nagasaki. 【Access by train】 If you want to Use Train, take the JR train from Hakata Station to Arita Station, and from Arita Station, transfer to the Matsuura Railway Nishikyushu Line and arrive at Matsuura Station via MR Imari Station. Train travel time is about 2 hours and 35 minutes, and the scenic scenery Unfolds from the Car window. ◇◇What is Matsuura City, Nagasaki, Matsuura City? In Matsuura City, fishing and agriculture support the city's economy. In particular, the total amount of landings of horse mackerel and mackerel is one of the highest in Japan, and fried horse mackerel and mackerel dishes using these fish are a source of local pride. In addition, there are many Nature landscapes in the city, Unfolds Fascination Visitors. ◇◇Popular Sightseeing spots in Matsuura City, Nagasaki, Matsuura City Prefecture◇◇ There are There are many Rich in nature Sightseeing spot and Famous landmarks in the Matsuura City, but this time we would like to introduce some of the most popular Sightseeing spot! ・Osaki Beaches The Beaches is popular for its outstanding location with a white sand Coastline that stretches for about 150 meters. In addition to Bathing in the sea in the crystal clear sea, you can also enjoy marine sports such as windsurfing, canoeing, SUP, Barbecue, and camping, so you can enjoy your summer trip. ・Iroha Island Iroha Island is a general name for many Uninhabited islands in the eastern part of Imari Bay, and the name was given because the large number of islands is reminiscent of the 48 characters of "Iroha Niho Heohe...". You can enjoy the view from Daisen Park in Fukushima Town, and it is so beautiful that the legend that "Kobo Daishi threw a brush" remains. ・Doya Terraced Paddy Field Doya Terraced Paddy Field is a terraced rice field boasting beautiful scenery that has been chosen by 100 best terraced rice fields in Japan. You can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons, and especially during the rice planting season from April to May, many photography enthusiasts from all over the country visit to capture the spectacular scenery that shines on the Paddy Field and the sea surface, and the "Doya Terraced Paddy Field Fire Festival" that is Held in in October is a masterpiece. Farming villages Healing Visitors. ◇◇Roadside Station in Matsuura City, Nagasaki, Matsuura City Prefecture◇◇ Introducing Roadside Stations in Matsuura City that provide Specialty products and Tourist Information of Matsuura City. ・Roadside Station Takarajima (Takarajima) "Roadside Station Takarajima" is a Roadside Station at the foot of the Takarajima Hizen Bridge where you can buy Fresh seafood and Local Specialty products, and a tuna dismantling show is held on the second and fourth Saturday of every month. In addition, the location facing the sea allows you to take a break while enjoying the scenery around Takara Island. ・Matsuura Umi no Furusato-kan Inside the facility, the Products Museum features the Matsuura Fish Market and Fresh fish caught in the neighborhood. You can also enjoy a delicious lunch such as fried horse mackerel and yellowtail bowls made with local ingredients. ◇◇Specialty products of Matsuura City, Nagasaki, Matsuura City ◇◇ Matsuura City has many specialty products that take advantage of the rich nature and warm climate, and the following items are exquisite even for Gourmet Street. ・Earl's Melon The Earl's Melon is grown in a high-grade melon that is Matsuura City and Cultivated, and is grown in a luxurious Cultivation way, with only 1 ball per plant. There are that it is characterized by its sweetness and aroma, and is popular not only at Mass Merchandise Stores but also at Furusato Nozei. ・Toki Aji (Toki Aji) Toki Aji is a fresh horse mackerel weighing more than 100g that is caught in the waters of Goto and Tsushima from April to August, and its fatty meat is exquisite. Local recommend especially sashimi, grilled with salt, and fried horse mackerel. ・Toki mackerel (Toki mackerel) Toki mackerel is a fish that represents Matsuura City along with Toki Aji. Mackerel weighing more than 400g is caught in the Tsushima Strait from the Goto Sea from October to February, and its umami and fatty meat are delicious like no other. In addition to grilled Mackerel and Toki shime saba, luxurious Mackerel shabu is also popular There are in the Locals. ・Fried horse mackerel Matsuura City is known as the "Holy Land of Holy Land of Fried Horse Mackerel", and Fried horse mackerel made with fresh horse mackerel has an exquisite taste that is crispy on the outside and plump on the inside. It is served in many Shokudo and restaurants in the city and is loved by Locals and tourists alike. ◇◇Events and Festivals in Matsuura City, Nagasaki, Matsuura City ◇◇ Matsuura City Held in Festivals and Events throughout the year where you can feel the Local history and culture. ・Shisa Town Noryo Fireworks Festival The Shisa Town Noryo Fireworks Festival is a fireworks festival Held in on August 15 every year, and Spirit Boats Parade through the city with the sound of Matsuura Drums, and 1,000 fireworks color the night sky of Matsuura City at the climax. ・Matsuura Naval Festival Matsuura Naval Festival is a festival held at the end of October every year to convey the history of Matsuura City to the present. It is an all-citizens-participation Events to honor the Matsuura Party (Matsuura Water Army), which defended the Township from the invasion of the Yuan army, and a parade and powerful performances are presented. ◇◇Introducing Tourist Information of Matsuura City, Nagasaki, Matsuura City Prefecture◇◇ Matsuura City, Nagasaki, Matsuura City Prefecture is an attractive area with rich Nature, history, and seafood that Matsuura City is proud of. Please visit Matsuura City and experience its charm. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will regularly Broadcasting recommendations that we couldn't introduce this time, so please Best regards!

Bathing in the sea with children and adults! Everyone was having fun!

I went to Mitarai Shrine with wind chimes and listened to the sound of the bells to cool off!

In the summer, there is a Obon festival, so I went to see my one-year-old child and great-grandpa! I wonder if the child was able to meet him because he was talking about something to the grave. I thought!

Kawakami Gorge Kawakami Gorge lies deep in the mountains of Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. The gorge forms the uppermost reaches of the clear Okudake River, flowing from the ridgelines of the Sobo–Katamuki mountain range. The deep green of the forest, the white of large granite boulders, and the water running between them create a striking contrast. Although tucked deep in the mountains, you can enjoy a proper hike or simply walk along the gorge in summer to take in the rich natural forest; it feels cool even in summer. Be careful: the riverbed is slippery. Near Kawakami Gorge is LAMP Bungoono, an accommodation converted from a closed elementary school, where you can also enjoy a Finnish-style sauna. Location: Obeira Mine, Ogata Town, Bungoono City It is about a 50-minute drive from the center of Ogata Town, Bungoono City.

Fukuoka Prefecture may not be on the typical tourist route, but it harbors countless hidden gems, and Nanzoin Temple is undeniably one of the most noteworthy. It claims to house the world's largest bronze reclining Buddha statue, which exudes tranquility under the vast blue sky. Despite visiting numerous places, it holds a special place in my heart, infusing me with positivity and making it one of my favorite summer destinations.

(4/4) I went to Aira City, Kagoshima Prefecture Prefecture "Itaide Falls" for the first time. You can go down to the riverside that streams from the Waterfall basin, so I was able to enjoy looking into the water and looking directly at the Waterfall basin. Especially here (maybe because it's summer?) There were many creatures, and there was an insect called tiger beetle (*) more than other Valleys and waterfalls. Water stampedes, medaka, crabs, dragonflies unique to the water, etc., were lively and energizing. *... When you look at it up close, it sparkles in various colors and is beautiful, but as soon as you get close, it flies 2 to 3 meters away and you can't see it seriously. And since they usually fly in the same direction as their walking, they often unintentionally look like Squid.

(3/4) I went to Aira City, Kagoshima Prefecture Prefecture "Itaide Falls" for the first time. The first is a path of trees that leads in the opposite direction to the waterfall. I didn't know if it was big by the water or the shade of the trees, but it was a strangely cool path. Thereare a short walk down to the riverside. Gari gets excited when you find a staircase like this and know that you can go down to the riverside.

(2/4) I went to Aira City, Kagoshima Prefecture Prefecture "Itaide Falls" for the first time. After crossing the Kanayama Bridge and walking in the opposite direction from the waterfall, there was a walkway and through the waterway and trees. Somehow, I like waterways, and whenever I see them, I always look into them. There was a large mossy tree stretching out its branches in the waterway here, and it was a scenery that was more exciting than the waterfall with a personal point.

(1/4) I went to Aira City, Kagoshima Prefecture Prefecture "Itaide Falls" for the first time. Unlike the waterfalls in the rough Valleys, the area around the Waterfall basin is Maintenance with good salt Ume plums, and there is a park-like atmosphere while the waterfall is worth seeing. The waterfall stream like a proper waterfall after the artificial stream at the back of the Maintenance, and I and a feeling that it might be like this Quercus serrata. Spot is strong to be able to enjoy the comfort of being surrounded by the greenery of Nature and the proper waterfall from the Car parking lot right next to it.

Futamigaura is renowned for the two "wedded rocks" that protrude from the sea, symbolizing conjugal bliss. It offers a beautiful setting for a relaxed coastal outing. At Sakurai Futamigaura, a picturesque shoreline location, the white torii of a nearby shrine frames the wedded rocks. On the summer solstice, the sun sets right in the middle of the Sakurai Futamigaura wedded rocks, creating an unforgettable sight. One thing I must not miss at this incredibly romantic place is capturing a photo of my beloved wife in the frame.

Kawakami Gorge Kawakami Gorge is a ravine deep in the mountains of Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. It lies about a 50-minute drive from the center of Ogata Town in Bungoono City. Kawakami Gorge sits at the headwaters of the clear Oku-dake River, where the blue, crystalline stream and frothing white rapids create a strikingly beautiful scene. Walking along the gorge lets you enjoy the rich natural forest, and the area feels cool even in summer.

In Fukuoka, there are more than 100 food stalls, also known as yatai. The delightful aromas of hotpot, gyoza dumplings, yakitori, tempura, and more waft from these casual stalls. Despite our summer visit, the warm weather couldn't dampen the spirits of the food enthusiasts, and the warmth of heartfelt welcome from the stall owners truly touched anyone's heart.

Kodai Fire Festival The Kodai Fire Festival takes place every year on August 14 in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. This traditional event has been passed down since the Edo period. Its origins are unclear, but it is said to have begun as a Bon memorial service, a ritual to drive away pests and pray for a bountiful rice harvest, or as a memorial for victims of an uprising that occurred during the Edo period. On the day of the festival, local residents prepare small torches called kodai in the rice fields across the Ogata Plain, starting around Harajiri Falls. At night, when about 10,000 kodai are lit all at once, their lights rise up from around Harajiri Falls across the Ogata Plain. The scene is exceptionally dreamlike. Some districts in Ogata Town create torii gates, stone bridges, and other features using kodai, creating a stunning competition of beauty.

Saturday, August 17 — National Mountain-Stream Fishing Tournament 🎣🔥 Here’s another fishing tournament story 💪 Today the National Mountain-Stream Fishing Tournament took place on the Mikasokawa tributary of the Gokase River 🤩 This was the second time, following last year 👏 About 70 children and around 100 adults gathered at Mikasokawa — a great turnout 😚 Like at the Kuraoka fishing tournament, I was reminded that fishing is an activity for all ages and genders. So many people were enjoying themselves — it was wonderful 😳✨ This time the children also had a fish-catching event where they grabbed fish by hand 😆 Surprisingly, eels were mixed in, so both kids and the adults watching were fired up 🔥🔥🔥 The vibe was “Bring one back for sure!” 🤣 haha After the excitement there was weighing and an awards ceremony 🏆✨ There were awards for highest total catch from 1st to 3rd place, plus a separate big-fish prize 🙌 The 1st-place total-catch winner landed 4.16 kg of fish 🎉👏 That’s a bit more than two 2-liter PET bottles worth of fish 😲‼ Amazing 👏 Congratulations to the champion 😆💕 The big-fish prize went to a second-year junior high student who caught a hefty 34 cm fish and placed admirably 🤩 Where could such a big fish have been hiding?! Congratulations 🥳👏 The raffle afterward featured a row of luxurious prizes 🫢 With kids and adults smiling, the fishing tournament wrapped up 🙌 Now that Obon and the fishing tournament are over, the weather is slowly starting to cool… When it’s hot you want summer to end quickly, but once you sense its end you feel a bit wistful 😌 Let’s stay well and keep going strong despite Obon fatigue and the heat 🕺✨