Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Experience: Canoeing & Sauninging Canoeing in winter? Isn’t it cold? Not at all — winter brings its own way to enjoy canoeing. This is "Canoeing & Sauninging." After paddling and entering the sauna, your body and mind will feel refreshed and balanced. Would you like to try this in the great outdoors? The sauna meal is a Gokasecho specialty. Season: January to March Price: Adults (high school age and older) JPY 9,000 (includes sauna meal: special horu hotpot) Booking: Shizenya Kawajin (Email: ag1967@gray.plala.or.jp)

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Experience: Snow Trekking & Sledding An activity unique to Gokasecho, a town with a ski resort! Snow mountain climbing and sledding! The rush of sliding down snowy slopes on a sled is addictive! We provide a warming lunch. *Subject to snow accumulation from January to March* Price 10,000 yen per person; minors must be accompanied by a guardian Lunch included: hot sandwich and soup (menu may change) How to apply Shizenya Kawajin (email: ag1967@gray.plala.or.jp)

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Experience: Footpaths A footpath refers to a route where you can walk while enjoying unspoiled nature, old townscapes, rice paddies and other pastoral scenery. Each footpath comes with a dedicated map, and directional signs are posted along the course, so you follow those as you walk. You can enjoy this footpath simply by following the map and signs, but its appeal is greatest on a guided tour. A local guide who knows the settlement’s history, culture and natural features will multiply the footpath’s interest many times over. <Fees> ・Adults (junior high school and older) ¥3,000 ・Elementary school students ¥2,000 *Operated for groups of two or more (elementary students must be accompanied by a guardian) <Booking> Gokase Nature School Postal code 882-1201 6452-Otsu Kuraoka, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture Phone: 0982-73-6366 ●Course Introductions● 1. Footpath: Gokasecho Miyano-hara District Miyano-hara is an old settlement dotted with many weeping cherry trees, led by a roughly 300-year-old shidarezakura at Josenji Temple. Sankasho Shrine, which has an inner sanctuary on Mt. Futagami—said to be the landing place of the heavenly grandson—features beautiful rhododendrons and the shrine building is adorned with superb carvings of hippocampi. The river is crossed by a stone-built megane (arch) bridge, and the course includes the “Bird’s Nest” terraced rice field selected among the Top 100 Terraced Rice Fields, stepped fields, bamboo groves and mixed woods—a sunny, peaceful route worthy of recognition as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage. We recommend walking here in spring when the cherry trees are in full bloom. <Schedule> 9:30–12:00 (about 2.5 hours) <Meeting place> Gokase Onsen Kijiya (9223 Hirokino, Sankasho, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture) <Notes> Footpath bento ¥700 and up (reservation required) ◎Special offer: discounted admission to Gokase Onsen Kijiya (Adults ¥500→¥300, Children ¥300→¥200) 2. Footpath: Gokasecho Kasabe District A small hamlet of about ten households located on the northern edge of Mount Gion-yama, considered the birthplace of the Gion tradition in Kyushu. The spring water that wells up from Gion-yama is true famous water. To make use of this water for community development, locals built a log-house pavilion from local cedar and named it Kasabe Water Station. The highlight is a giant hinoki cypress said to be 700–800 years old. It is nicknamed “God’s Hand” because it resembles a powerful man’s left hand, and it draws many visitors. <Meeting time> 9:30–12:00 (about 2.5 hours) <Meeting place> Kasabe Water Station (Kuraoka, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture) <Notes> Footpath bento ¥700 and up (reservation required) 3. Footpath: Gokasecho Kuwanonai District Kuwanonai is a village with spectacular views of Mt. Aso from anywhere and beautiful sunsets. With many tea fields, it traditionally produces pan-fried tea that has won imperial awards. Recently, black tea made from Japanese tea leaves has become popular, and the area also cultivates flowers, cherry tomatoes and grapes, and raises domestic black Wagyu cattle—farming and livestock remain the core industries. The cozy farm-stay program promoted by the Sunset Village Development Council is popular; students from across Asia visit on school trips. <Meeting time> 9:30–12:00 (about 2.5 hours) <Meeting place> Gokase Winery (4847-1 Kuwanonai, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture) <Notes> Footpath bento ¥700 and up (reservation required) 4. Footpath: Gokasecho Habu District Historically active in trade with Bungo Province (Oita Prefecture), this area once served as a logistics hub. Today it is the inner retreat of Kuwanonai, backed by steep terrain and Kyushu’s magnificent mountains, including Mt. Aso. Photographers and painters favor many spots here, and you can find quintessential rural scenery that feels truly countryside. The course has many ups and downs, offering a bit of a hiking experience. <Meeting time> 9:30–12:00 (about 2.5 hours) <Meeting place> Gokase Town Coexistence Welfare Facility (1514-5 Kuwanonai, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture) <Notes> Footpath bento ¥700 and up (reservation required)

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Experience: e-bike (E-bike) Experience An e-bike is an electrically assisted bicycle. Built like a mountain bike (MTB), it is designed for off-road use, rough terrain, and steep mountain paths. Because it has electric assistance, people with less strength and beginners can easily climb hills. There are two course types to enjoy, suitable for beginners and active riders alike. 1. Mamihara Course This easy-to-ride course follows the old prefectural border road, passing traditional stone-paved streets, a historic post town, and highland areas. The route is safe, so even those with little confidence can ride with peace of mind. 2. Kuwanouchi Course This course suits both beginners and active riders. It offers sweeping views of Mt. Aso and passes Gokase Winery, a shrine’s ancient tree, tea fields, and unpaved sections for a more active experience. Time Morning session: Meet 09:30 — Finish 12:00 Afternoon session: Meet 13:00 — Finish 15:30 Meeting place Gokase no Sato Camp Village (141-1 Mikasho, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture 882-1203) Participation fee: Adults 6,000 yen (high school students and older) *The fee includes accident insurance and e-bike rental. Period: Year-round Other details ・Reservations required ・Participants must be at least 150 cm tall ・Please provide the age of all participants when booking. ・If the event cannot be held due to bad weather, we will notify you by phone or text message by the day before. If a decision can be made several days in advance for events like typhoons, we will notify you at that time. Reservations Shizenya Kawajin (Email: ag1967@gray.plala.or.jp)

Miyazaki Prefecture, Gokasecho Experiences: Soyokyo Lake SUP Half-Day Tour Enjoy a half-day SUP tour around the scenic reservoir framed by the green slopes of Soyokyo. This plan is suitable even for first-timers and includes a coffee break along the way! Note: Available from April through October Price Adult (junior high school and older) 6,000 yen Elementary school student 4,500 yen Dog 1,500 yen Note: Elementary school students must be accompanied by a guardian Participation fee includes accident insurance and SUP equipment rental Meeting point and times Meeting times Session 1: Meet at 9:30 — Finish at 12:00 Session 2: Meet at 13:00 — Finish at 15:30 Meeting place Soyō Branch Office, Yamato Town, Kamimashiki District, Kumamoto Prefecture Address: 500 Ima, Yamato Town, Kamimashiki District, Kumamoto Prefecture Reservation Contact: Shizenya Kawajin (email: ag1967@gray.plala.or.jp)

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Experience: Soyokyo Canyon Canoe Tour This half-day plan lets you leisurely paddle a canoe around the scenic reservoir surrounded by the green of Soyokyo. It’s suitable for first-timers and includes a coffee break along the way! ※Season: March to November Price ・Adult (junior high school and older) 6,000 yen ・Elementary school student 4,500 yen ・Toddler 2,500 yen ・Dog 1,500 yen ※Toddlers from around age 2; toddlers and elementary students must be accompanied by a guardian ※Participation fee includes accident insurance and canoe equipment rental. Meeting place and time ・Meeting times [1st session] Meet 9:30 — End 12:00 [2nd session] Meet 13:00 — End 15:30 ・Meeting place “Yamato Town Soyou Branch Office,” Yamato Town, Kamimashiki District, Kumamoto Prefecture (500 Ima, Yamato Town, Kamimashiki District, Kumamoto Prefecture) Booking Shizenya Kawajin (email: ag1967@gray.plala.or.jp)

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Specialty Products and Souvenirs — Blessings of 400 Million Years These tomatoes and their processed products are harvested carefully one by one at the perfect moment of full ripeness on the vine, and can be collected only for four months each year, roughly from July through November. • Blessings of 400 Million Years “Red Jewel” Tomato Sauce This sauce is made from fully vine-ripened Italian tomatoes grown with care on our own farm and sun-soaked, simmered slowly for two days without adding water. You can enjoy a fresh flavor that feels like eating the tomato itself. *No chemical seasonings, colorings, or preservatives are used.* • Blessings of 400 Million Years “Black Jewel” Game Sauce We slowly simmer lean domestic wild boar meat—healthy and high in protein—with plenty of locally grown vegetables and fully vine-ripened Italian tomatoes in abundant Gokase wine and local red wine for two days. Just toss with boiled pasta for an exquisite Bolognese. It’s a dish the whole family, including children, can enjoy. *No chemical seasonings, colorings, or preservatives are used.* • Beloved Tomatini Beloved Tomatini is a convenient take-home tomato sauce. Made without any additives to preserve the tomato’s flavor, it is prepared slowly and carefully over time. The cute packaging also makes it a perfect souvenir. Available for purchase at CORASITA or through CORASITA’s online store.

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Local Product & Souvenir: Ginger Syrup This organic ginger syrup uses plenty of fresh ginger and features the spice’s natural fresh aroma and sharp taste. Diluted with soda it becomes ginger ale, and adding vodka turns it into a Moscow Mule. It pairs well with shochu, red wine, beer, milk, tea, and many other drinks, so the possibilities for mixing are endless. You can buy it at Bar ELCAMPO and the Gokase Specialty Center.

From the sidewalk of "Takenaka Pond (Kagoshima Prefecture no spring water Town)", which is not usually visited, away from the Somen sink! I don't like strong sunlight, but it's hard to available if the colors are dull Squid not in this hot season!!! Summer!!

Use the interval in my life called the re-job hunting period, Kagoshima Prefecture went to "Takenaka Pond" spring water Town! This is a place you'll probably want to visit again and again, always and in the future. I wanted to eat the Somen noodles because the noodles were crunchy, but I gave up because it was crowded with Mr./Ms. children on summer vacation. available I remember going there on a rattle day, but I was happy that this day was lively on this day of summer vacation. (I'll eat Somen again next time!) )

Miyabe’s Special Horumon and Salted Horumon from Gokasecho, Miyazaki Prefecture Miyabe Butcher Shop, the town’s only meat shop, marinates pork skirt and shoulder roast in its homemade sauce to make the special horumon called “Tokuhoru.” This dish once won the grand prize at the Local Gourmet Contest held in Miyazaki City. It’s great grilled over charcoal, on an iron griddle, or stir-fried with various vegetables since it’s already seasoned. They also offer a salted horumon called “Shiohoru,” in which the offal is slowly soaked in their homemade salt blend, Kuroshio Jiro. You can grill it as is, or add it with vegetables to a clear broth made from dashi base for a light, refreshing motsunabe (offal hotpot).

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Specialty and Souvenir: Four Hundred Million Years of Earth Gion Spring Water Rice <Taste> Each grain is firm and flavorful yet refreshingly light. It pairs well with any side dish and stays delicious even when cold, making it ideal for rice balls and boxed lunches. <Cultivation Commitment> This rice is grown on terraced paddies irrigated only with the mineral-rich spring water known as Myoken Shinsui, one of the Heisei-era Top 100 Famous Waters. <Regional Characteristics> Located along the Kyushu Backbone Mountain Range at elevations of 600–650 meters, the area’s large temperature swings concentrate the rice’s flavor. The region is also known for heavy snowfall in winter. <Variety> Hinohikari (rated Special A)

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Local Specialties and Souvenirs: Versatile Seasoning and Yuzu Kosho ◎Versatile Seasoning The ingredients are plenty of garlic, chili peppers, ginger, and bonito stock only. A producer from Korea packed this secret family seasoning recipe full of home-style flavor. Use it as a hidden flavor in dishes, mix it with soy sauce for a dressing, or blend it with mayonnaise for a vegetable dip. Just adding it makes peperoncino ready in no time! ◎Yuzu Kosho This yuzu kosho brings out the natural flavors of yuzu, bonito stock, soy sauce, salt, and chili peppers only. The green variety has a fragrant aroma, while the red one is spicier. Be sure to find the taste you prefer.

EVERYONE WHO WATCHES COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! How do you do! It is the West City Tourist Association. Saitoshi is a city located in the central region of Miyazaki Prefecture, Kyushu. It is a town full of historical romance and such as National Special Historic Site Saitobaru Kofun Tumulus, one of the largest Kofun Tumulus in the Japan, and Togun Castle, the residence of Ito, the lord of Hyuga Country. Saitobaru Kofun Tumulus is a scenic spot for flowers Spring with 2,000 cherry blossoms and 300,000 rape blossoms, 1 million sunflowers in summer, and 3 million cosmos in autumn. Access is about 10 minutes from the Nishito IC on the Higashikyushu Automobile Expressway. Use public transportation is about 60 minutes by bus from downtown Miyazaki City. Cool JAPAN VIDEOS will send out recommended Tourist Information in Nishi City, Miyazaki Prefecture, so please follow us! 【Introduction of recommended Sightseeing spots in Nishi City, Miyazaki Prefecture】 ・Saitobaru Kofun Tumulus It is a group of Kofun Tumulus that was designated as a National Special Historic Site in Showa 27. In 2018 Heisei 30, it was certified as a Japan heritage site. It is one of the largest Kofun Tumulus in the Japan, with more than 300 Kofun Tumulus from the late 3rd century to the first half of the 7th century scattered on a plateau of about 2.6 km from east to west, 4.2 km from north to south, and Elevation 50~80m. It is also known as a scenic spot for flowers, and you can enjoy various landscapes throughout the four seasons, with 2,000 cherry blossoms and 300,000 rape flowers blooming in Spring, 1 million sunflowers blooming in summer, and 3 million cosmos blooming in autumn. Access is about 10 minutes from the Nishito IC on the Higashikyushu Automobile Expressway. Use public transportation Get off at Miyazaki Kotsu Saito Bus Center and take a taxi for about 5 minutes. #West City #Miyazaki Prefecture #Kyushu #Saitobaru #Saitobaru Kofun Tumulus #Cherry blossoms #Rape flower #Sunflower #Cosmos #Kofun Tumulus #History #Tourism #Travel #Tourist Association

As the dank Ume plum rain sky continues, the long-awaited Tendo-sama! !! I took my three-year-old son out and enjoyed Nature at Denoyama Park in Kobayashi City, Miyazaki Prefecture. It was fun to drift on the lake in a boat under the blue sky, looking at ducks by the water, the blue sky for the first yellowtail time in a long time, and the carp that came to feed on it. In addition to being on the surface of the lake, the wind was blowing with only a slight flutter of hair at the time of shooting, and I was able to enjoy the coolness.

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Local Specialty and Souvenir: Takana Nikuman Takana nikuman is a local gourmet treat sold only during the winter season. Its main fillings are takana (pickled mustard greens), bamboo shoots harvested in Gokasecho, and minced pork. The ingredients are stir-fried with sesame oil, sugar, and soy sauce to bring out their deep natural flavors and aromas. A spicy homemade mustard is also included, recommended for adding a flavorful kick. Loved both within and beyond the town, this is a must-try delicacy. Enjoy!

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho specialty souvenir: Hanameguri (yokan and yuzu yokan) Hanameguri is a handmade yokan made from Gokase-grown azuki beans that are slowly simmered over time and carefully kneaded by hand for many hours. You can taste the full flavor of the azuki beans, and the exquisite balance of sweetness and saltiness reveals a profound flavor that opens your eyes the moment you bite into it. Enjoy a peaceful moment with this Gokasecho specialty paired with the rare kama-iri tea, a local prized tea.

Specialties and Souvenirs of Gokasecho, Miyazaki Prefecture: Gokase Yamame Gokase Yamame are fish raised in the yamame village at the source of the Gokase River, skewered and charcoal-grilled until golden and seasoned to perfection. Varieties include lightly sweet-and-salty simmered yamame (yamame kanroni), ginger-flavored simmered yamame (yamame shiguren), yamame slowly stewed with sansho pepper (yamame sanshoni), and yamame gently simmered wrapped in kombu seaweed so the fish broth soaks into the kelp (yamame kombu-maki). The bones are soft, making them safe and easy to eat for children and older adults.

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho local product and souvenir: Babba Club’s karinto Karinto made by the Kawanochi district processing group Babba Club These additive-free snacks focus on safety and peace of mind. They also make Adam cookies and longevity senbei. Handmade pickles are also popular.

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Specialty and Souvenir: Log-grown shiitake mushrooms These "log-grown shiitake" thrive in clear air, fertile soil, and mineral-rich water They are a local specialty prized for their rich aroma and texture They also make a recommended gift for someone special.

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Specialty Products and Souvenirs: Gokase Wine Nestled in rich nature atop a hill at 660 meters stands Gokase Winery. A climate with large temperature swings and pure water nurtures grapes with an exquisite balance of sugar and acidity. “We wanted to make wine using 100% locally grown grapes.” With that wish, the winery opened in 2005. Wines made from freshly harvested grapes have a juicy, fruity character. Please enjoy wines made from 100% Gokase-grown grapes, filled with the scent of the earth. Wine Introductions ■ Niagara (white, sweet — most popular) Grape variety: Niagara This white wine made from the table grape Niagara has a beautiful golden color. Aroma reminiscent of osmanthus with added fresh notes makes for a pleasantly refreshing sweet wine. ■ Delaware (white, slightly sweet) Grape variety: Delaware The pale yellow hue of Delaware is easy on the eyes in this white wine. Its citrus-like aroma and fresh acidity pair well with a wide range of meat dishes. ■ Chardonnay (white, medium dry) Grape variety: Chardonnay Chardonnay shows a lovely pale yellow-green that evokes Gokase’s spring buds. Its lively acidity is refreshing and leaves a clean finish. This crisp, slightly dry style pairs well with fish-based Japanese cuisine. ■ Campbell Early (rosé, slightly sweet) Grape variety: Campbell Early This slightly sweet rosé locks in the grape’s fresh fragrance and natural sweetness. Its vivid color is as striking as a sunset pouring over Kuwanochi. ■ Yuhi (red, dry) Grape varieties: Merlot, Petit Verdot Merlot and Petit Verdot were aged carefully in barrels for one year. This light-bodied red balances gentle acidity and tannin for easy drinking. ■ Juju (sparkling, white) Grape variety: Niagara Keeping Niagara’s characteristic aroma, this sparkling version transforms it into a crisp Niagara. It has a refreshing mouthfeel. ■ Oubu (sparkling, rosé) Grape variety: Campbell Early A sparkling wine made from the table grape Campbell Early. Enjoy its mature, developed flavor. ■ Ryoka (sparkling, white) Grape variety: Chardonnay A sparkling wine made from Chardonnay, featuring youthful, fresh fruit aromas and moderate acidity. It is dry and sharp in taste and pairs excellently with fish dishes. ■ Akane (red, dry) This is a half bottle (360 ml). Named Akane to evoke the beautiful autumn sunset skies visible from Gokase Winery. A Merlot-dominant red. Akane, finished dry, rested in stainless tanks for a light taste. It features gentle tannins and clean acidity. Other options include half (360 ml) bottles of Niagara, Rosé, and Chardonnay.

[Miyazaki Prefecture, Gokasecho] Local Specialty and Souvenir: kama-iri tea Kama-iri tea is made by pan-frying tea leaves instead of steaming them. This method, similar to the process used for oolong tea, brings out the tea’s natural aroma. Compared with standard steamed teas, it boasts a light, refreshing flavor and excellent fragrance that make it easy to drink cup after cup.

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Gourmet: Hinatamichi Hinatamichi is an izakaya in the Kuraoka area This izakaya, where you can also sing karaoke, fills up with locals In summer, guests can enjoy a beer garden as well Because the restaurant has irregular holidays, it’s best to call ahead before visiting Hours: Contact for details Closed: Irregular holidays Contact 3263 Kuraoka, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture 882-1201 Phone: 0982-83-2360

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Gourmet — Yakitori Masa-chan When night falls in Gokasecho, this is the place to be: Yakitori Masa-chan With a wide variety of yakitori and a cold beer, you might just feel like a true Gokase local!? Besides yakitori, they offer a selection of proud signature dishes! Hours: From 17:00 Closed: Sundays Contact 10650-5, Sangasho, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture 882-1203 Phone: 0982-82-1541

[Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Gourmet] Takara Shop A snack bar you can also use for after-parties. It's a good idea to call ahead before visiting. [Hours] 7:00 PM–1:00 AM [Closed] Irregular holidays [Contact] 10650-1, Sankasho, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture 882-1203 Phone: 0982-82-1539

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Gourmet: Akaneya Sabou Akaneya Sabou sits on a hilltop It opened in 2021 as a cafe with views of Mt. Aso. Their hamburgers are perfect for lunch, and the monthly limited lunch menu is also popular. This is the only restaurant in Gokasecho where you can dine with your dog. Hours: 11:00–17:00 Closed: Wednesdays Contact 67 Sangasho, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture 882-1203 Phone: 0982-82-1107

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Gourmet: Rest House Shima Rest House & Guesthouse Shima sits along National Route 265 by the Gokase River Here you can enjoy dishes like seafood champon and a Takachiho beef set meal The champon in particular is loaded with toppings and very filling! Feel free to stop by just for a meal Hours: Irregular holidays Contact 4871-1 Kuraoka, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture 882-1201 Phone: 0982-83-2837

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Gourmet: IL gardino della corasita IL gardino della corasita is a garden café–style restaurant run by the auberge corasita, a stay-in restaurant operated by a tomato farm. (IL gardino della corasita means "corasita's garden" in Italian.) Dinner service is available only on nights when no overnight guests are staying. The restaurant is also available for lunch, celebrations, banquets, and trainings. Hours of operation By reservation only Lunch 11:30–13:30 (last order 13:00) Dinner 17:00–20:30 (last order 20:00) Closed: irregular holidays Please note that if someone is staying on your desired date, dinner cannot be served. Outdoor garden seating depends on the season and weather; please inquire when making your reservation.

[Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Gourmet] CORASITA (Corashita) Corasita is a reservation-only restaurant where owner Hiromi Fujiki, a certified Italian cuisine researcher, serves traditional Italian home cooking, especially from Tuscany, using proudly homegrown tomatoes from her own farm. Dinner is available only on nights when no overnight guests are staying. The restaurant is also available for lunch, celebrations, banquets, and training events. [Hours] Reservation only Lunch 11:30–13:30 (last order 13:00) Dinner 17:00–20:30 (last order 20:00) [Closed] Irregular holidays *Please note that dinner cannot be served if there are guests staying on your desired date. [Contact] Phone: 0982-83-2017

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Gourmet — Kurunkonne Kurunkonne, a café in Gokasecho where you can read manga This place also serves as a relaxing spot where you can refresh yourself. They hold monthly events, so why not treat yourself? The owner’s proud takoyaki and takakibi veg hot sandwiches are highlights, and the café offers a full range of drinks and desserts. Hours: 11:00–17:00 (hours may change) Closed: See the business calendar Contact 9719-1 Sangkasho, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture 882-1203 Phone: 0982-82-0308