Doll Memorial Service Suwa, Nagano Prefecture Onsenji Temple, Rinzai Myoshinji School On March 17, 2014, I visited Onsenji Temple. It is about a ten-minute walk from Kamisuwa Station. This temple performs memorial services for dolls and stuffed animals. It felt much like a funeral for dolls and stuffed toys. Onsenji holds a doll memorial service every March. In Japan, Boys’ Day falls on May 5 and Girls’ Day on March 3. Most grandparents give dolls to their grandchildren to pray for the child’s healthy growth. These are traditional Japanese dolls unique to Japan. As a result, many Japanese households own Japanese dolls. I believe dolls also have a spirit, like animism suggests. When your child owns a doll, the child plays with it. As the child grows up, they tend to move away from the doll. Most Japanese people do not simply throw away the dolls that watched over their children’s growth. That is because the dolls spent time with the child. Most Japanese think dolls have a soul. That is why they hold memorial services for dolls. That day, over 1,000 dolls were gathered. The chief priest chanted sutras for the dolls and stuffed animals for about 30 minutes. The priest offered thanks to the dolls with purifying salt. We prayed with the same feeling. It was a very mysterious experience. It was my first time seeing so many dolls and stuffed animals. Still, it was a deeply heartfelt Buddhist memorial for the dolls. I felt I could sense a little of Buddhist sentiment. That is why I love Japan!! Also, Onsenji is famous as a spot for autumn leaves. If you want to see beautiful foliage, please come and see the autumn colors at Onsenji.

【Limited to 500 people】Highway Bus Kiso Meguri Ticket A very affordable highway bus ticket to Basta Shinjuku⇒Kiso Fukushima Station! "Even if you can take a bus from Tokyo, you will have trouble with secondary transportation." Boarding tickets come with a 4,000 yen Kiso bus and taxi ticket. Round-trip 9,600 yen Boarding ticket + 4,000 yen transportation ticket in Kiso = 13,600 yen! Sold for 9000 yen! Even a one-way ticket worth 4,000 yen is 5,500 yen. It is also possible to go by bus and return by train. This ticket will be available for purchase at Highway Bus.com and is limited to 500 tickets. The bus usually runs Traditional Japanese straw raincoat on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, but it runs every day during the Obon period from 8/10~18 and from 12/28~1/5 during the year-end and New Year holidays. Transportation tickets can be exchanged for Kiso buses, taxis, and Ontake Ropeway Boarding tickets! Why don't you come and visit Kiso at a great price!? For inquiries, please contact the Kiso Tourism Federation TEL: 0264-23-1122

Narai-juku, located on the old Nakasendo road, is the longest post town in Japan, stretching about 1 km along the Narai River. This historic site features the Chinjin Shrine at the top of Torii Pass on its Kyoto end. Once a bustling hub for travelers, Narai-juku was known as "Narai Senken" Narai's Thousand Houses and was the busiest stop on the Kisoji road. The town still preserves architectural marvels from the Edo period, such as the eaves lights of the inns and the thousand latticed windows, reflecting the timeless grandeur of the area.

Matsumoto Castle on a heavy snowy day The Chuo Expressway was closed to traffic, so I took a big detour on the Kanetsu Road and entered Matsumoto on the lower road from Azumino. It took me 6 hours to get there in 3 hours laughs.

Matsumoto doesn't snow as much as Tokyo The day after the heavy snowfall was a blue sky. It was the first time I saw Matsumoto Castle with a frozen moat.

【Kiso village】Ōhira Iris Park Pond Iris At the Odaira Iris Park Pond in Kiso village, irises that grow in clusters bloom from late May to early June. As of May 25th, about two-thirds of the flowers have bloomed, and they are in Best time to visit! From the National Route 19 "Suge" traffic light in Kiso village, it is about 10 minutes by car in the direction of Kodama Forest and Yabuhara Ski Resort.

We’ll share the charms of Suwa City in Nagano Prefecture!!! ⇒ YouTube “Suwa City Official Channel” @TheCityofSuwa First, we start with “What kind of place is Suwa?!” — we hope this sparks your interest. Also, we’ve made an amazing promotional video!!! Suwa offers seasonal delights year-round. In spring, enjoy cherry blossom viewing and hikes amid fresh green mountains; Kirigamine offers spectacular views from Nagikama Shrine, and in summer you can admire daylilies (nikkokisuge). At the heart of the Suwa Basin lies the symbol, Lake Suwa. In summer you can kayak on Lake Suwa, take a sightseeing boat, or ride the new cycling road that even children can enjoy 🚵. Best of all is the Suwa Lake Festival’s lakeside fireworks display, one of Japan’s top events 🎆. In autumn, savor Suwa’s fermented gastronomy—miso—plus the local specialty, Shinshu Suwa miso tempura rice bowl. Enjoy sake from Suwa’s five breweries, made with Kirigamine’s exceptional spring water 🍶. In winter, experience the ice ridges called Omiwatari and try wakasagi smelt fishing 🎣. Warm up and soothe your tired body at Kami-suwa Onsen♨ Suwa truly offers the best all year round♪ In times of need, people turn to “Osuwa-sama.” There are over 10,000 branch shrines across Japan, and the head shrine, Suwa Taisha, is here ⛩. A roughly six-minute introduction video can’t cover everything... Suwa is more than just the Onbashira Festival!!! Come visit and experience Suwa for yourself♪ We look forward to seeing you!

Today I attended the opening festival of Kirigamine. The weather was fine and surprisingly warm. In the second photo, majestic Mt. Fuji also peeked out to welcome us. Even so, just climbing up to the Kirishōtō bell tower made me sweat profusely.💦 For the first time in three years, the opening ceremony returned outdoors.🏔 Many people attended, and we were able to hold the festival. At the opening, members of the Kirigamine Glider Association launched a glider right at 9:00.🛩 It climbed to about 1,900 meters shortly after takeoff. Because it was a glider, it lifted off very quietly.🛫 If there were no weight limits, I would love to try it at least once!!! At the ceremony, the head priest of Tenaga Shrine prayed for the safety of visitors, everyone who passes through Kirigamine, and all those connected to Kirigamine. Please be sure to visit the Kirigamine Nagikama Shrine, one of Suwa’s hidden scenic spots I introduced before! When you come to Kirigamine or Suwa, please drive safely.🚙=3

【Otaki village】Shizenko Nature Lake September 14, 1984 Nagano Prefecture Western Earthquake A mountain collapsed in the Halfway up of Mt. Ontake, and a large amount of debris flowed was dammed by the Otaki River, creating a deep forest and a natural lake where the Valleys submerged. Natural heritage site "Shizenko Nature Lake". It's a photogenic place, but when you actually see it, it's a beautiful scenery that takes your breath away. It is an unexplored area that you should visit at least once. By the way, it is also a place that has been used as a filming location. ） Nature canoeing is held here. Period: April 20 to mid-November Not opens Time: Morning session 9:30~12:00 / Afternoon session 13:30~16:00 Fee Adult 6,500 yen junior high school students and older / 4,000 yen for elementary school students / 3,000 yen for infants 4 years old and older, including equipment and accident insurance. Cash payment only on the day. Apply from the Home page. Please search for "Shizenko Nature Lake Nature Canoe Tour"!!

When I visited Takashima Castle around Golden Week, local junior high students were there sketching the castle. Approaching the wisteria, a wonderfully sweet scent filled the air. Before I knew it, honeybees and carpenter bees had come to gather nectar🐝—even I, as a person, was drawn in by that lovely fragrance!!! I don’t understand why the demons in Demon Slayer would be afraid of such beautiful flowers, haha. I think they’re gorgeous. I recommend taking shots from beneath the wisteria trellis!!! Surprisingly, I didn’t know—despite being a local—that wisteria blooms were even in the pond... Takashima Castle, I’m sorry... Looking at the whole display of wisteria that day, to my amateur eye it seemed about 70% in bloom. On the grounds stands a rare Gokoku Shrine⛩ whose architecture resembles that of Suwa Taisha. It seems to have some unusual carvings. I think Golden Week is generally the best time to visit every year, when you can see them at their most beautiful. The castle, the park, and the wisteria—please come and visit next year; we’ll be waiting for you!

Jizoin in Shiga, Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture. Jizoin, the 16th temple of the Suwa 33 Kannon. Jizoin is famous for its katsura tree, a natural monument designated by Suwa City, and is also well known as a peony temple. Its large, vivid flowers are a sight to behold. *Karin-chan Community Bus Yamato–Shiga Line🚌 From Kami-suwa Station Kirigamine Exit, get off at Ichiritsuka, then walk 2 minutes.

📍 Nakasendo Otaki Female Waterfall Due to the restoration work of the torrential rain disaster, The Nakasendo road above the Otaki Female Falls has been closed for a long time. It will open today, Tuesday, April 23rd, 2024 Reiwa 6! Thank you to everyone who has been waiting. Please continue to pay 🥾✨ attention to your steps #Nagiso Town #Nakasendo #Hiking #Otaki Female Waterfall #Kisoji #Kiso #Nagano Sightseeing #Nagano Travel #Trekking #Tsumago Juku #Magome juku

Tsumago juku "Coming Inn Certificate" has been renewed! English notation has been added to the commemorative inn certificate of inn Nakasendo and Tsumago juku, and it has been ✨ renewed It is a postcard-sized one made of cypress and is sold at the Tsumago Tourist Information Center for 300 yen each. #Nagiso Town #Tsumago juku #Nakasendo

Hello to all COOL JAPAN VIDEOS viewers! This is the Nagiso Tourism Association. Nagiso Town, Kiso-gun, Nagano Prefecture is a town of about 3,600 people in the southwestern part of Nagano Prefecture. 94% of the town is forested, of which about 70% is national forest. It is formed in seven regions: Yogawa, Northern part Kakizore, Midono, Tsumago, Araragi, Hirose, and Tadachi. In the COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, we will introduce plenty of the charms of Nagiso Town, so please enjoy it! ◆History of Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture◆ Nagiso Town flourished during the Edo period as a Shukuba-machi on the Nakasendo Highway connecting Kyoto and Edo. In "Tsumago juku" and "Midono juku", where travelers interacted and culture blossomed, the Old streets of that time still remain. ◆Introduction of sightseeing spots in Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture◆ 【Tenpaku azalea colony】 Located in Tenpaku Park, it is a large communities of Mitsuba azaleas designated as a natural monument of the town. Best time to visit in Spring, 400 azalea plants dye the garden beautiful pink and white. Since it is located on a hill in the park, you can overlook Kiso Komagatake and other places. 【Tsumago Yado Preservation District】 Maintenance as the 42nd Shukuba from Edo on the Nakasendo Road, it still retains strong faces of the Edo period. In 1976, it was designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. At Wakihonjin Okuya, you can also experience the life of the past by the sunken hearth. Walking through the Old streets allows you to feel the romance of a timeless journey. 【Kakizore Canyon Oyster each keikoku】 It is said to be one of the most beautiful Valleys in Kisoji. Azaleas and rhododendrons in Spring and autumn leaves can be enjoyed throughout the year. Use the nature trails and promenades along the Valleys to see the granite hollowed-out Ushigataki Waterfall and Kirigataki Waterfall. 【Tadachi Waterfall】 The "Uru Falls", "Rasen Falls", "Senshin Falls", "Kirigataki Waterfall", "Tenga Falls", "Fudo Falls", and "Somen Waterfall" that span the canyon of the Otaki River are collectively called Tadachi Waterfall. In 1990, it was recognized as a 100 best waterfalls in Japan and in 2020 it was designated as a Central Alps National Park. 【Yogawa Michi】 The Yogawa Michi was built as a detour when the Nakasendo Road became impassable due to the flooding of the Kiso River. The moss-covered forest road with stones and bamboo bushes beside the highway is a great Hiking Course. 【Momosuke Bridge】 Completed in 1922, more than 100 years ago, it is the largest wooden bridge in Japan with a total length of 247 meters. It was designated as a National Important Cultural Property in 1994 【Mt. Nagiso】 Mt. Nagiso, with an elevation of 1,677 meters, was a mountain of Mountain asceticism in ancient times. The mountain trail offers steep slopes, gentle slopes, and chain grounds. It is popular as a mountain where you can easily climb on a day trip. ◆Specialty products of Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture◆ Surrounded by forests, Nagiso Town has long been home to wooden crafts. The traditional technique of carving wooden boards and logs with a potter's wheel while rotating them with a Nagiso wheel is carefully made one by one by craftsmen. It fascinates many people with its delicate beauty made with craftsmanship that has been passed down from generation to generation. ◆Festivals and events in Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture◆ 【Tadachi Hanauma Festival】 At the festivals held every year in October to give thanks for the bountiful harvest of five grains, three Kiso horses decorated with saddles slowly parade through the town. In 1993, it was designated as an Intangible folk cultural asset of Nagano Prefecture ◆Tourist Information of Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture◆ Nagiso Town in Nagano Prefecture is an attractive area with its magnificent natural scenery and rich history. Please spend a memorable time in the beautiful nature and history of Nagiso Town. Best regards for COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, we will send out Recommendations and Latest Information on Nagiso Town.

At last, on April 1, 2024, the Lake Suwa Cycling Road has been completed. The route circles Lake Suwa for about 16 km. This lake has long been loved by local people. I remember when I was in sixth grade, my friends and I rode our bikes around the lake for the first time. I think many locals have their own first-time Lake Suwa cycling stories. Now that the path has been newly improved, it should be easier to ride and offer lovely scenery. I’m getting more excited about sunny weekend rides! #LINEBREAK###"No way, I’m not ready to own a bike yet…" "What kind of bike should I get now?" If you’re wondering that, or asking "What’s an electric-assist bicycle like?", why not take this chance to rent a bike around Lake Suwa and enjoy a relaxed ride with your family or friends? ※Please check each provider’s website for closing days and business hours. ・Activity Base Cogue ・JBT Suwa Rent-a-Cycle ・Lake Suwa Rental Cycle ・SUWA Glass Village #LINEBREAK###Electric-assist bicycles make climbing hills easy! You can even ride to the famous Tateishi Park and to Kirigamine Highland, a pride of Suwa, by bike!!! With the completion of the Lake Suwa Cycling Road, please consider bringing your own bike to ride around the lake or renting an electric-assist bicycle to challenge the full loop of Lake Suwa and Kirigamine Highland! If you get tired, there are parks, cafes, and footbaths♪ I don’t think many places in Japan are blessed with such facilities. Cafes and parks along cycling routes are common, but footbaths are rare, I think. If you bring a towel, you can use a footbath easily. It will blow away your fatigue♨ Also, do you know about Swaichi? If you cycle around Lake Suwa and take photos of three spots in Suwa, Shimosuwa, and Okaya with your smartphone, then go in person to the tourist information centers at kamisuwa station, shimosuwa station, or okaya station and show the three photos, you will receive a Swaichi certificate and a commemorative badge (badge color cannot be chosen). Try this challenge with your children or friends. It’s a great way to mark a Lake Suwa circuit and make a memory with Swaichi! ※Photo courtesy of Activity Base Cogue The seventh photo is my favorite scenic spot!!! See if you can find it!

Nagikama Shrine⛩ The other day I visited Nagikama Shrine on Kirigamine for the first time. Last year I heard about Nagikama Shrine, which had replaced its wooden torii with a stone monument, and I had planned to visit after the snow melted. A passing comment from my wife, who loves Kirigamine, finally prompted us to go. As someone who loves the Onbashira festival, I’ve grown fond of visiting shrines, and I had long wanted to see Nagikama Shrine, so I took my camera and headed for Kirigamine at last. We parked in the lot below the ski area and followed directions toward the Glider Museum, but unsure of the way and hesitating, I spotted a small sign in front of the museum reading Nagikama Shrine 0.5 km and followed it. It felt a bit farther than expected. Together with my wife and our two children, we walked for several minutes, enjoying Kirigamine’s nature, until we saw the stone monument marking Nagikama Shrine. As a shrine, a torii would feel more fitting, but the stone monument had its own charm. The approach was neatly covered with wood chips, making for a very pleasant walk. When we reached the small shrine, the view took my breath away. It was a scene that excited me like I hadn’t felt in a long time. The clear weather that day only amplified the spectacle. Below stretched the Suwa Basin, the serene Lake Suwa sat beautifully, the Central Alps rose ahead, the Northern Alps to the right, the Southern Alps to the left with sacred Mt. Fuji beside them, and Yatsugatake behind to the left. A shrine that offers a view of so many mountains at once may be rare in Japan, I thought.🏔 As a self‑declared Seeker of Suwa’s Best Views, this vista immediately made my list of top spots. Tateishi Park offers a sweeping view of the Suwa plain and is very scenic, but Nagikama sits at a higher elevation and has an indescribable beauty. I felt it would be a shame to keep this to myself, so I’m sharing it here. The shrine’s goshuin (stamp) is newly available, so anyone touring Suwa’s shrines or visiting Kirigamine should definitely stop by. If the weather is clear, you won’t regret it! ・Enshrined deities: Takeminakata no Okami, also known as Osuwa‑sama: god of martial valor and abundant harvests ・Oyamatsumi no Okami: god of industry and maritime affairs, and further revered as the ancestral deity of sake brewing ・Ashinazuchi no Okami and Tenazuchi no Okami ⇐ Kushinadahime: parents of Kushinadahime, wife of Susanoo no Mikoto A nagikama (a sacred implement shaped like a sickle) discovered at the ruins of the former Misayama is dedicated here. After the main pillars for the Onbashira are selected, the nagikama is hammered onto those pillars. Curiously, this practice occurs only on the Onbashira of Suwa Taisha Upper Shrine. The nagikama has a shape resembling a rooster’s head and is considered one of Suwa Taisha’s sacred treasures. The nagikama is enshrined inside the hokora, so please take a look along with the spectacular view. Suwa Taisha also offers nagikama amulets♪

Big NEWS!!! The “Gokuraku Set” from Suwa Gokura has been renewed and will be on sale from April 1, 2024🍶!!! The previous set let you enjoy tastings of four to five kinds of sake at each brewery and included a special drawstring pouch and glass. This hugely popular offering has reopened with a refresh!!! In the renewed version, each of the five breweries adds an original special sticker, and the stickers come on backing cards so the collection becomes like a goshuincho (shrine-stamp book) marking visits to all five breweries! It also supports inbound foreign tourists: as a purchase bonus you get access to a digital map in Japanese, English, and Chinese. This digital map even includes sightseeing information around Kamisuwa Station and locations for evacuation and disaster preparedness!!! It’s been greatly upgraded! And for lovers of sake🍶 and stickers, it’s irresistible♪ After your trip, you can relive the memories with your five-brewery sticker book! The new Gokuraku Set is renewed from April 1, 2024, priced at 3,000 yen including tax, and available for purchase at the Suwa City Tourist Information Center inside Kamisuwa Station!!! Local residents and travelers to Suwa alike—please take this opportunity to enjoy it!

Hello! This is the Suwa Tourist Association. Suwa City in Nagano Prefecture sits at the heart of Nagano Prefecture. The area offers beautiful natural scenery such as Lake Suwa and Kirigamine, along with rich history you can experience at sites like Takashima Castle and Suwa Grand Shrine. At Cool Japan Video, we share recommended sightseeing spots and the latest information about Suwa City, so please stay tuned! ◆◆About Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture Suwa City has a population of about 47,000 and is roughly a two-hour drive from the Tokyo metropolitan area. The Suwa Grand Shrine Upper Shrine and Lower Shrine, said to be one of Japan’s oldest shrines, attracts many visitors year-round. In the Edo period the city prospered as the castle town of the Takashima Domain, and in the Meiji period it grew into a global center of the sericulture industry. ◆◆Tourist Attractions in Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture ◇Suwa Grand Shrine This shrine is the head of Suwa Grand Shrine sites across Japan. The Upper Shrine is divided between Honmiya (Main Shrine) in Suwa City and Former Shrine in Chino City, while the Lower Shrine consists of Autumn Shrine and Harumiya in Shimosuwa Town, forming a two-shrine, four-shrines configuration. Built in the architectural style known as Suwa-zukuri, the shrine buildings are designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan, and the shrine forests are prefectural natural monuments. A popular sightseeing course is the pilgrimage visiting the four shrines known as the “Shisha Mairi.” ◇Takashima Castle and Takashima Park Built about 420 years ago, the castle is nicknamed the “Floating Castle of Suwa” because Lake Suwa’s waters once served as its moat. The present castle tower welcomes many visitors as a museum and observation deck. Takashima Park inside the castle grounds is also a popular cherry blossom viewing spot. ◇Lake Suwa Located almost at the center of Nagano Prefecture, Lake Suwa is the largest lake in Shinshu with a shoreline of about 16 kilometers. The lakeside offers pleasant walks and plenty to see, including the Harmo Museum of Art and SUWA Glass Village, one of the largest glass museums in Nagano Prefecture. ◇Kami-suwa Onsen This hot spring on the shores of Lake Suwa ranks among the nation’s top in daily spring output. A large number of hotels, ryokan, minshuku, and day-trip hot spring facilities allow visitors to plan their stay as they like. ◇Tateishi Park Perched on the hillside, the park overlooks Lake Suwa below. There’s even local talk that it inspired a movie setting. Tateishi Park is selected among the 100 Best Sunset Points in Shinshu and included in the New Three Major Night Views and Night View 100 selections. ◇Kirigamine Highlands Alpine plants color the highlands through the seasons. The panoramic views of Mount Fuji, the Alps, and the Yatsugatake Mountain Range provide unforgettable scenery. Kirigamine Ski Area within the highlands offers winter sports. ◇Nagano Prefectural Kirigamine Nature Conservation Center This prefectural visitor center in Yatsugatake Chushin Kogen National Park presents photos and panels to learn about the plants, animals, and history found on Kirigamine. ◇Suwa Gokura (Five Breweries of Suwa) Thanks to the spring water that wells up from the Kirigamine Highlands, the clear air, and the cool climate, Suwa City’s sake ranks among the top in Japan. Five breweries—the Suwa Gokura—stand in the city, and brewery-hopping tours to sample each sake are popular. ◆◆Local Specialties of Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture Suwa City produces a wide range of local specialties, including quince (marmelo) products, river fish products, sake, kanten (agar), and Shinshu miso, all grown and made locally. These items are known for their high quality and are highly regarded not only in local markets but across Japan. ◆◆Festivals and Events in Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture ◇Onbashira Festival at Suwa Grand Shrine This traditional ritual of Suwa Grand Shrine has been handed down for over 1,200 years and takes place every seven years in the years of the Tiger and Monkey. During Onbashira, sixteen fir trees over 17 meters tall are raised by hand at the four corners of the shrine buildings. The next festival will be held in 2028. ◇Suwa Lake Festival Fireworks Display on Lake Suwa Held annually on August 15, spectacular fireworks launched from platforms set on Hatsushima on Lake Suwa paint the lake with brilliant color. This is one of the nation’s largest fireworks festivals, attracting about 500,000 spectators each year. ◆◆Sharing Tourist Information about Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture Suwa City is a region rich in charm woven from its history, nature, and culture. Visit Suwa City to immerse yourself in Japanese history, surround yourself with great nature, and enjoy moments of pure bliss. At Cool Japan Video, we will continue to share recommended information about Suwa City, so please look forward to it.

【Notice of Kiso Tour】June 7 Fri and 8 Sat, 2024 A tour with Tomoko Suzuki, a Popular manga artist known for "Zukudase TV" and "Zukudase TV" if you are a Shinshu person, will be held in Kiso! This time, he will liven up Kiso as the new leader of the Kiso support team. A tour where you can enjoy Kaida Highlands and Kiso town for 2 days and 1 night. The inn is a guest house with a view of the starry sky. Served at Kiso's Specialties, which can only be tasted at this time. On this tour, you can also visit Tomoko Suzuki's favorite Spot. Reservations are now being accepted, with a capacity of 15 people on a first-come, first-served basis! Visiting the site of Nagano Prefecture Pharmaceuticals, chartering a Pension, Visiting the sites, and other things that can only be done on this tour are packed! Reservations are accepted from the Home page of "Kiso Valley Trail".

It's Hoha-maki season!! "Hooba maki" is a Japanese confectionery made by wrapping bean paste in a rice cake made by kneading rice flour, wrapping it in magnolia leaves, and steaming it. In Kiso, it has been made since ancient times as a celebratory mochi for the Dragon Boat Festival, which is held on June 5. It is made using twigs with several leaves attached to one tree as it is, so it has a different appearance and is appreciated as a Souvenirs. It is sold at many confectionery stores from mid ~ end of May every year. There are also people who come from far away in search of hooba rolls. It is available until mid-July, so if you come to Kiso this season, please try it at least once! Please refer to the following for Kiso dealers. It is also Publication on the seasonal Information on the Home page "Kiso Valley Rippu", so please take a look. [Dealer] ♦ Shiojiri City Tea House "Kodemari" 0264-34-3072 　　　　Roadside Station "Kiso Narakawa" 0264-34-3888 　　　　Tezukara 0264-34-3236 ♦ Kiso village Kitahara Confectionery 0264-36-2069 　　　　Buckwheat 0264-24-0188 　　　　Roadside Station "Kiso River Headwaters Village Kisomura" 0264-36-1050 ♦ Kiso town Roadside Station "Hiyoshi Kiso Koma Kogen" 0264-23-3644 　　　　Sweets Tsukasa Taguchi 0264-22-2023 　　　　Omuraya 0264-22-2841 　　　　Orihashi Confectionery 0264-22-2421 　　　　Confectionery 0264-22-2134 　　　　Sweets Priest Horaiya 0264-22-2372 　　　　Confectionery Brewery Yoshishiro 　　　Ohashi Confectionery 0264-22-4800 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　0264-22-2413 　　　　Roadside Station "Kiso Fukushima" 0264-21-1818 　　　　Roadside Station "Sangaku" 0264-46-3677 　　　　Farmer's Market "Saisaikan" 0264-42-1360 ♦ Otaki village Himeya 0264-48-2020 ♦ Agematsu town Agematsu town Specialty Products Development Center Use Union 0264-52-1505 　　　　Washin 0264-52-5588 　　　　Cafeteria Nakamura 0264-52-2183 　　　　Hokodo 0264-52-4648 ♦ Okuwa Village Roadside Station "Okuwa" 0264-55-4192 　　　　Yoneko Okuwa 0264-55-3633 　　　　Michikusa 050-2006-2025 　　　　Traditional Japanese straw raincoat 0264-55-4380 　　　　Wood sawing village 0264-55-2900 ♦ Nagiso Town Toyama Confectionery 0264-57-2209 　　　　　Tsutaya Confectionery 0264–57-2069 　　　　　Ebiya 0264-57-3054 　　　　　Sawadaya 0264-57-2272 　　　　　Chokane Sawadaya Tsumago 0264-57-3268 ♦ Nakatsugawa City Roadside Station "Shizumo" 0573-75-5255

【Ontake Ropeway】 This season's Ontake Ropeway is scheduled to operate from April 25 Thursday ~ November 10 Sunday in 2024. You can take a capsule-shaped gondola to Elevation 2,150m and take a scenic aerial walk for about 15 minutes Fun If you're lucky, you might be able to see a sea of clouds like the one in the photo! Fun gourmet food such as Unkai curry and Saiun soda at the summit station observation café "Oyama Ochaya"! ♦ Kiso how to enjoy the ropeway is Publication in the trip idea of the Tani and Rippu HP. It is a collaboration article with skima Shinshu. Please take a look! ♦ Flights are subject to suspension due to weather conditions. Please see "Ontake Ropeway" or contact us at the Phone number below. ℡：0264-46-2525 Ontake Ropeway 〒397-0101 Kiso Town, Kiso-gun, Kiso-gun, Nagano Prefecture Sandake 1

【Nagiso Town】Momosuke Bridge With a total length of 247m, it is one of the largest wooden bridges in Japan. It is a suspension bridge built by Momosuke Fukuzawa for the development of hydroelectric power generation. It has been designated as an important cultural property of Japan as a modernization heritage. A powerful bridge that looked very good in the blue sky on this day. Not only the retro feeling, but also the view from the bridge is the best and recommended photo Spot!

How do you do! This is the Iijima Town Tourism Association. Nagano Prefecture Kamiina County Iijima is a town of about 8,900 people located in the center of the southern Inadani Valley of Nagano Prefecture. With the Central Alps to the west and the Southern Alps to the east, it is a city where you can see the two Alps. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will continue to provide Recommendations and Latest Information on Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture, so thank you! ◇◇What is Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture? Iijima Town has two famous fireworks shops nationwide. "fireworks" is familiar to Iijima townspeople, with many fireworks launched throughout the year, such as the "Senninzuka Underwater fireworks Tournament" in Spring, the "fireworks at events" in the summer, the "Dedication Smoke Fire" every week in September ~ October in autumn, and the "New Year's Eve New Spring fireworks festival" on New Year's Day. In addition, craftsmen have inherited "Straw work" as a traditional culture since ancient times. Straw work made in Iijima Town is famous throughout Japan, and it is responsible for making Making ring-shaped bales of rice for sumo wrestling and Sacred straw ropes for Famous shrines. In addition, Iijima Town has been attracting attention as a comfortable town to live in in recent years, and the number of immigrants is increasing. ◇◇Introduction of sightseeing spots in Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture 【Mt. Karakasa】 It is a mountain with an elevation of 1542 meters, and two mountain trails were developed in 2013. From the Observation decks and the summit, you can Unfolds a spectacular view of the Southern Alps. 【Campsite in Iijima】 There are three campsites in Iijima, so please enjoy the campsite that suits your purpose. ・Senninzuka Park Campsite It is a natural park located in the Nanakubo district of Iijima Town, and is full of activities to enjoy the rich nature such as camping, standup paddleboarding, fishing and trekking. ・Inaka no Kaze Campsite Agricultural experience, beetle hunting, and other experiences of Nature can be experienced. ・Yodagiri Park Campsite Sports facilities include tennis courts and swimming pools. The natural water "Kosumo no Mizu" that springs in the park was selected as one of the 15 best and secret waters in Shinshu. 【Roadside Station Hananosato Iijima】 Freshly picked local vegetables are lined up and you can enjoy your meal. It overlooks the Central Alps and the Southern Alps. [Roadside Station Tagiri no Sato] There are many products that are full of the blessings of Iijima's nature, and you can feel the charm of "Minami Shinshu Iijima". Soft serve ice cream in the take-out corner is also popular. ◇◇Specialty products of Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture Alps Salmon, a large rainbow trout raised in the clear water of the Alps Fresh Water, is a delicious dish with a firm fat. In addition, there are many Soba restaurants lined up in the town, and you can eat authentic Handmade Soba noodles. ◇◇Introduction of festivals and events in Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture 【Shinshu Ijima Wind Road Wind Chime Festival】 This event was recognized by Guinness World Records in 2023 for the largest number of wind chimes on display. In the venue, 10,000 wind chimes played a cool sound. In addition, there are many food stalls lined up in the venue, and guests who match the concept appear every year on a special stage. 【Iijima Town Rice Bale Marathon】 In Iijima Town, where Rice cultivation has been popular since ancient times, a marathon is held in which Rice Bales are carried. It is a Popular event that will be held for the 11th time in 2023, and every every year, applications will flood in and the capacity will be filled with applications as soon as recruitment starts. ◇◇Introducing Recommendations for Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture Iijima in Nagano Prefecture is a fascinating region for its natural beauty, rich history, and heartwarming local events. Please spend a healing time in Iijima. This Account will send out Tourist Information of Iijima Town, so please follow us.

With the aim of regional revitalization, promotion of recognition, and expansion of consumption by Tomi Wine, which leads the Chikuma River Wine Valley, we will invite visitors from the Tokyo metropolitan area and all over the country to hold a wine festival outdoors in May with a new look from every year autumn. This year, the event will be held for two days, and will also sell limited edition wines that assemble mix and harmonize grapes from each producer in the city, and to convey the charm of delicious food in the region. I hope you all enjoy it. Name: Tomi Wine Festa 2024 - Assemblage Date and time: May 11 Sat and 12 Sun held for 2 days in Reiwa 6 　　　11:00~16:00 on both days Implementation in case of rain Location: JA Shinshu Ueda Tomi Branch La Vérité Parking Lot 63-4 Tanaka, Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture 　　　Shinano Railway About a 5-minute walk from Tanaka Station Participation fee: Free for everyone Bring your own wine glasses 　　　* All drinks and food Will be sold charged. Wine glasses with participating winery logos 2024 limited sale 700 yen will end as soon as they run out Organizer: Tomi Wine Club wineries in the city, wine grape producers, wine support group Supported by: Tomi City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Shinshu Toumi Tourism Association, Nagano Wine Association Sponsor: Tomi City, each company Cooperation: 82 Bank Tanaka Branch, JA Shinshu Ueda Tomi Branch Vendors: Wineries, wine grape producers, local restaurants, etc.

A inn Johshuya for rent in a Unno Yado where the townscape of harmony continues In the Edo period, it was full of vitality as a Shukuba-juku, and during the Meiji and Taisho periods, it Unno Yado shifted to a city where sericulture was thriving. Even now, the precious buildings of that time are lined up, and if you step inside, you can feel the "time" that is constantly streaming beyond the long history of Unno Yado, which has lasted for nearly 400 years. Johshuya is the only space where you can liken your time to a thread and unwind the tightly twisted thread. Dinner at Johshuya Johshuya offers creative Japanese cuisine produced by Komoro City "Drunkenness". A small bowl made with ingredients from Shinshu, and Shinshu premium beef sukiyaki as the main dish. It is a hot pot that warms up in this season when it is still cold. You can consult with us about the arrangement of the dishes according to your budget and wishes. Please experience the cuisine filled in the space of Johshuya and the local wine together with "unwinding time". #Unno Yado #Old townscape #Nagano Trip #Rental of a building

The long week of the new school year is coming to an end. Here's a little reflection of March. [Implementation of study tour by junior high and high school students @ Tomi City] 3/23 Sat - 26 Tue As part of the Ueda-Tomi Study Tour, members of the Social Action Team of the Volunteer Department of International Secondary School attached to Tokyo Gakugei University visited Tomi City! While continuing the relationship with Ueda, this time the field was expanded to Tomi, and 14 junior high and high school students experienced Tomi for the first time Tomi was on the 1st day of 3/25. We actually visit the area, interacted with local people, and worked on a study tour to think about local issues together from the perspective of junior high and high school students. Tomi's theme is "How can people gather in Tomi?" It's huge! Because this was my first time in Tomi, I dared to ask them to grasp the charm of Tomi from multiple perspectives without being bound by the perspective of tourism. [Local people who cooperated this time] ⚪︎Cave Hatano Hatano-san ⚪︎SASAKI FARM 佐々木さん ⚪︎ Kodama Family Residence & Cafe Nei Kodama's family ⚪︎Unno Yado Kamishuya Asakawa-san * SASAKI FARM was specially accepted for training. Please note that it is not a tourist ranch. The junior high and high school students fell in love with the land of Tomi itself, and while touching the enthusiasm of Adults who took on the challenge of realizing their commitments and desires, they enthusiastically asked specific and Unfolding questions. Although it was only one day, I was very impressed by the way they tried to get to know Tomi deeply. At the end, the "charm of Tomi" that everyone felt at the Unno Yado Fureai Center was output in a short time. From the moment you unfold the imitation paper, the pen moves all at once! Impression by the enthusiasm of the junior high and high school students. I'm looking forward to the reports that will be compiled in the future. Tomi, like Ueda, I can't help but think that we can build a Gari with continuity. Tokyo Gakugei University International Secondary School Volunteer Department See you all in Tomi/ ・ ・ [Thanks] Thank you again to everyone in the community who cooperated with us! Please 🙏 note that some tagging did not work Regional Revitalization Cooperation Volunteers T.N #Tomi City #Nagano Prefecture #Study Tour #Tourism Association #Commerce, Industry and Tourism Division #Junior and senior high school students #Local issues #Connecting with the community #Adult challenging #Winery #Cavehatano #Sheep Farm #Sasaki Farm #Sasaki Farm #Kodama Family Residence #Kodama Family Residence Cafe #Unno Yado #Rental inn #Unno Yado Kamishuya

HELLO VIEWERS OF COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! This is the Shinshu Toumi Tourism Association. Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture is a city in the eastern part of Nagano Prefecture. Surrounded by the Asama mountain range of Joshinetsu Kogen National Park to the north and Tateshina and Yatsugatake to the south, it is an area rich in Rich in nature, with more than half of the city being mountain forests and one-fourth being fields. The city was created in 2002 by the merger of Higashimomachi and Kitamomaki Village, and became "Tomi City" by taking one letter each of the Omi of Higashimomachi "east" and Kitamomaki Village. There is the Joshinetsu Expressway "Tobu Yunomaru Interchange" and the Shinano Railway "Tanaka Station" and "Shigeno Station", and it is about 2 hours from Central Tokyo and about 1 hour from Nagano City and Matsumoto City. ==Recommended sightseeing spots in Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== ・Unno Yado Opened in 1625 as a Shukuba-juku on the Kitakuni Highway, it is a tourist destination that still retains its original appearance. You can feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Edo period. ・Myojin Pond It is a pond built in the Edo period, and it is Maintenance as an Art Village Park centered on the pond, and you can see the beautiful scenery of the four seasons such as New green and autumn leaves in the Satoyama. There are facilities in the park such as the Umeno Memorial Picture Gallery and the Fureaikan. ・Unnojyuku History and Folklore Museum The building built around 1790 in the Edo period is still used as a Documents Museum. The climate, history, and documents of Unno Yado are on display ・Roadside Station Raiden Walnut Village At the Roadside Station at the entrance to Yunomaru Highland, you can enjoy a meal that makes use of hand-made soba "Inutate Soba" and local ingredients at the restaurant. Local agricultural products and specialty products are lined up, so it is also recommended to buy Souvenirs for sightseeing in Tomi City. ・Yunomaru Ski Resort It is the closest powder snow ski resort to Central Tokyo, and the six slopes can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced skiers. The business period is from late November to early April every year. ・Yunomaru Plateau It is a plateau located on the west side of the Asama mountain ranges, and the Renge azalea of Azalea Plain is also designated as a national natural monument. Every year, when the Renge azalea is in full bloom, the "Yunomaru Kogen Azalea Festival" is held. ・Yurakuchi-kan Wine & Beer Museum It is a facility where you can experience Tomi Wine, such as an exhibition room that introduces the history of Tomi Wine, winery Information in Tomi City, grape cultivation amount, etc., and a tasting area and wine sales centered on Tomi City wine. A wine concierge is also available, so be sure to find your favorite wine. ==Specialty products and gourmet foods of Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== Kyoho grapes, walnuts, sweet corn, Shirado potatoes, and broccoli are specialty products of Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture. These specialty products are also popular as thank-you gifts for roadside stations and Furusato Nozei tax payments. In addition, wineries are being born one after another in Tomi City, and wine taxis are also operated to visit wineries in the city. ==Events and festivals in Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== ・Raiden Festival It is a major summer event in Tomi City held at Tanaka Shopping Street, and there are performances and dances on stage, and many Kitchen Cars are lined up in the shopping street. At the climax, the festivals are enlivened by a dance parade. ・Unno Yado Fureai Festival It is a festival held every November at Uminojuku, Old Kitakuni Highway, Unno Juku, and a procession dressed in Edo period costumes parades through the city. The buildings and gardens of Unno Yado, which you cannot usually see, will be opened. ==Agricultural experience in Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== The idyllic atmosphere of Tomi City, with its fields spread all around, is difficult to enjoy in the Central Tokyo. There is also a travel plan where you can enjoy farming experience while interacting with the warm and friendly people of Tomi City. Even if you visit sightseeing for the first time in Tomi, the local staff will support you so that you can participate with peace of mind. Agricultural experience plans include "Rice cultivation", "Apple cultivation", "Corn harvesting experience", and "Traditional Japanese straw raincoat harvesting experience". ==Recommended Information for Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== The Nature of the Tomi City and the atmosphere of the historic city Fascination those who visit. Please feel the charm of Tomi City firsthand. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will provide recommended Information that will help you plan your trip to Tomi City.

【Nagiso Town】May dolls on display At the free rest area "Fureaikan" in Tsumago juku, May dolls are on display. Visiting the site is free and will last until Wednesday, June 5. Please come and visit us! For details, please visit the official website of Tsumago juku. Inquiries: Tsumagoro Tourist Information Center TEL: 0264-57-3123

Nezame Area Nakasendo Guided Tour Join our Nakasendo guided tour in Agematsu Town! Walk with a local guide who knows the area well and enjoy the seasonal natural scenery. The tour includes the limited revival soba set at Echizenya, a long-established soba shop celebrating its 400th anniversary. Seasonal local snacks will also be served. Nezame-no-toko in the Central Alps Quasi-National Park is one of the Nakasendo’s most scenic spots, beloved by writers and artists. In the Nezame area, a historical roadside teahouse from the old Nakasendo still evokes the atmosphere of the Edo period. Follow a tour tracing the history and culture unique to Agematsu, the home of Kiso hinoki. Scheduled Dates 2024: Wednesday, May 8; Wednesday, June 26; Wednesday, October 9; Wednesday, November 13. 2025: Wednesday, January 15 Meeting Place In front of JR Agematsu Station at 9:30 AM Time 9:30 AM–around 3:00 PM What to Wear Comfortable clothing, sturdy walking shoes; bring drinks, rain gear, and a towel Participation Fee 4,000 yen (monitor price 3,000 yen only for the first session on May 8) Capacity About 10 participants per session, first come, first served How to Apply Agematsu Tourism Association TEL: 0264-52-1133

How do you do! This is the Kiso Tourism Federation! Kiso, Nagano Prefecture is a region in the Kiso River basin of Nagano Prefecture and consists of eight cities and towns: Nakatsugawa City, Nagiso Town, Okuwa Village, Agematsu Town, Kiso Town, Otaki Village, Kiso Village, and Shiojiri City. Located in a valley surrounded by 3,000-meter-high mountains that have been selected as a 100 Famous Mountains of Japan, it is an area where delicious air, water, and Healing space brought by Nature spread. The historic Shukuba-juku town still remains along the old Along the road and is visited by many travelers. In this article, we will introduce you to the history and highlights of the Kiso, as well as Information local Specialty Products and events. ◆History of Kiso, Nagano Kiso The Nakasendo Highway, which connected Kyoto and Edo during the Edo period, was an important highway with many people coming and going. Kiso, which is part of the Nakasendo Highway, has prospered as a transportation hub since ancient times, with many travelers and supplies coming and going. Many Shukuba-juku towns have developed and retain their faces even today, and Kisoji was designated as the first Japanese heritage site in Nagano Prefecture. At that time, 69 Shukuba were placed in the Nakasendo 540-kilometer process, of which 11 Shukuba are located in Kisoji. Nakasendo Kisoji 11 Shukuba ・Niekawa Juku ・Narai juku ・Yauhara juku ・Miyanokoshi juku ・Fukushima juku ・Agematsu juku ・Suhara-juku ・Nojiri juku ・Midono juku ・Tsumago juku ・Magome juku Even now, the cityscape of the Edo period Unfolds on Kisoji, and you can feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Edo period. ◆Introduction of tourist spots in Kiso, Nagano Kiso ◇Kiso Kaida Highlands Elevation Kaida Highlands overlooking Mt. Ontake, which stretches for 1,100 to 1,400 meters, is Unfolds with rural scenery. There are sports facilities and Hot spring facilities, and it is crowded with many tourists. At the "Kiso Horse Village" in the Highlands, you can also enjoy horseback riding and horse-drawn carriage experiences. ◇Nezame-no-Toko On the floor of Nezame-no-Toko in Agematsu town, you can see a strangely shaped granite rock that looks like a row of large boxes. It was designated as a national scenic spot in 1923 and became a Central Alps National Park in 2020. ◇Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest It is one of Japan's three most beautiful forests in Agematsu town, and there is a forest of natural Kiso Hinoki trees that are more than 300 years old. It is also the birthplace of forest bathing, where Japan's first forest bathing competition was held in 1982. ◇Ontake Lake, Shizenko Nature Lake The beautiful lake in Otaki village also offers ontake lake canoe touring and Shizenko Nature Lake nature canoe tours. Since you can see the beautiful appearance of the four seasons, it is a popular photo Spot and is visited by many tourists throughout the year. ◇Atera Canyon The emerald green clear streams of Atera Canyon in Okuwa Village are called "Atera Blue" and are a popular healing spot for girls' trips. ◆Introduction of Roadside Station in Kiso, Nagano Kiso At the Roadside Station, fresh vegetables and specialty products from the local Kiso are lined up, and you can enjoy Kiso's gourmet food. Souvenirs are also recommended! ・Roadside Station Kiso Fukushima Kiso Town, Kiso-gun, Nagano Prefecture ・Roadside Station Hiyoshi Kiso Koma Kogen Hinoyoshi, Kiso-cho, Kiso-gun, Nagano ・Roadside Station Kiso River Headwaters Village Kisomura Kiso Village, Kiso-gun, Nagano Prefecture ◆Introduction of Specialty products and crafts of Kiso, Nagano Kiso Kiso is also known for its rich specialty products nurtured by its natural environment. Matsutake mushrooms in Kiso town are famous for their high aroma and are popular as a taste of autumn. Sunki, pickled red turnip, and Maki of magnolia leaves are traditional gourmet foods in Kiso where you can enjoy their unique flavors. In addition, Kiso lacquerware is an Ancient tradition that has been handed down in the Kiso area for a long time, and the longer it is used, the warmer and luster it becomes, and the more beautiful it shines. ◆Introduction of local events and festivals in Kiso, Nagano Kiso ◇Mizunashi Shrine Festival Mikoshi portable shrine roll This festival, held every July, is a rare festivals in Japan where about 100 kan about 400 kg Mikoshi portable shrines are rolled or dropped and destroyed overnight, and is also called "One of the world's strangest festivals". ◇Kiso Yoshinaka Flag Raising Festival It is a festival registered as a Component Cultural Assets, and mourns Lord Yoshinaka, lights a fire character in the shape of a "tree" on Mt. Yamabuki, and a warrior procession parades through the town. ◆Introduction of Kiso, Nagano Prefecture Kiso, Nagano Kiso is a fascinating region for its magnificent nature and rich history. While walking along the old highways that have remained since the Edo period, you can feel the unchanging scenery that travelers must have felt at that time. We will continue to send out Information that will convey the charm of Kiso to everyone who sees COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, so Best regards!