The Highland Guide Training Session A training session for highland guides was held at Yachiho Highland Nature Park✨ This year's theme was "Plants and Moss" During the training, we walked through the park with the instructor, who provided explanations about the plants and moss found in the nature park. Even in areas we usually walk through, focusing on the plants and moss led to many new discoveries👀

Rice Field Owner System, Second Round Grass Cutting We will remove the barnyard grass mainly growing in the rice paddies The rice ears are growing well☺

The lotus flowers blooming in the fallow fields of Azumino are at their best They are blooming near the Prefectural Children's Hospital♪ *This is private land and fallow fields managed by individuals. Please enjoy quietly while respecting the manners and avoiding any obstruction to the farm roads and surrounding traffic.

The JR Oito Line runs through Azumino... It passes through rural landscapes From the window, you can enjoy the lush green rice fields and the mountain range of the Northern Alps. 😊

When you come to Azumino, be sure to look for the mountain "Mt. Ariake." It has a shape similar to Mount Fuji, and is also called Shinano Fuji. 🗻 This morning, there were no clouds, and it was clearly visible. It's easy to spot, so give it a try! 😆

This morning in Azumino, we were blessed with weather that allowed us to see the distant peaks of Hakuba. 😄 At this time of year, clouds can quickly roll in and obscure the mountains...💦 Wake up a little earlier and enjoy the scenery of Azumino! 😆

A Town That Makes You Love Mornings – Azumino The early rice ears are beginning to ripen in the fields The dew is shining in the morning sun Although the sunlight is strong, it feels like a summer morning in Azumino, with cool air making it a pleasant morning.

Kajika no Sato Park, a waterfront park in Azumino, is a well-maintained area dedicated to the revival of the stream-dwelling Kajika fish. It also features a campground, offering a fantastic location with views of the Northern Alps. 😆

Spacious Azumidaira A lush rural landscape unfolds This view faces directly north.

The lotus flowers at Seigen-ji Temple in Azumino are beautiful. Here, you can find a cedar tree-lined path reminiscent of Togakushi Shrine's inner sanctuary, and on the right side of the grounds, there is a lotus field.

2026 Limited to this summer! "Azumino Summer Vegetable Curry" An original curry made with fresh and delicious summer vegetables from Azumino! Available at 15 local restaurants Serving period: Until Monday, August 31, 2026 *Please note that the situation may change depending on each restaurant's circumstances This time, we introduce 【café twinkle】 Its name is "Tomato Curry Doria with Summer Vegetables and Ground Meat." The hot doria baked in a stone oven is exciting even before you eat it. When you dig in with a spoon, you find a creamy white sauce and curry under the gooey cheese, which pairs well with multigrain rice. The vegetables used in the curry are fresh, allowing you to taste their natural sweetness. The cheese, white sauce, and curry harmonize perfectly, appealing to women's preferences. However, the portion is substantial, ensuring that men will also be satisfied. Additionally, I enjoyed a great weekday lunch that comes with a mini salad and drink. After much deliberation, I chose the popular Margherita pizza lunch. The wood-fired pizza is made with domestically-produced wheat, giving it a chewy texture, and it is delicious! The dining space has both first and second floors, and this time I had lunch on the second floor. The L-shaped counter seats by the window offer a prime view of the Northern Alps. Next to it, there are spacious sofa seats prioritized for families with babies, allowing families to dine comfortably. The cat-themed decor creates a lovely atmosphere, making it a great place to relax. ----------------- Store Information ----------------- café twinkle 【Address】 2218-2 Hotaka, Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture 399-8303 【Phone】 0263-88-7537 【Business Hours】 Lunch 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Last Order until 2:00 PM) 【Closed】 Irregular holidays (announced on Instagram monthly) 【Parking】 Parking available Please check with the store for the latest information. Don't forget to like and save for future reference!

2026 Limited to this summer! 'Azumino Summer Vegetable Curry' An original curry made with fresh and delicious summer vegetables from Azumino! Available at 15 local restaurants Serving period: Until Monday, August 31, 2026 *Please note that this may change depending on each restaurant's situation Introducing this time is 【Ramen & Cafe Mugi Kobo Kakashi】 The concept of the shop is "a ramen shop that can be easily entered by a woman alone" The exterior is stylish and Western, as it also serves as a cafe The shop is equipped with a barrier-free entrance What I had was the 'Rich and Delicious Vegetable Curry Ramen' As stated on the menu, "Curry x Ramen is the fateful meeting of national dishes!!" The carefully simmered curry and ramen soup create an addictive flavor You can top it with fried summer vegetables yourself Additionally, for an extra charge, you can choose from a variety of toppings like small rice, cheese, chashu, and flavored eggs, which is another charm (The types of vegetables may vary slightly depending on the day's supply) Also, I recommend the most popular 'Natural Ingredient Salt Ramen' The soup is simply delicious! You get hooked on its light yet rich flavor! All ramen uses natural ingredients, focusing on salt, and the broth is made by carefully extracting Mongolian rock salt over 72 hours The noodles are slightly thin and curly. They feel gentle on the stomach It was so delicious that I ended up drinking it all! In addition to ramen, the menu is rich with meals like hamburgers and grilled meat plates The cafe menu is also abundant, with various desserts to choose from, making it a place to relax and unwind Near the shop, you can find Azumino City New General Gymnasium ANC and Nanbu Park. Please stop by before or after your exercise! ----------------- Store Information ----------------- Ramen & Cafe Mugi Kobo Kakashi 【Address】 182-8 Toyoshina, Azumino City, 399-8205 【Phone】 0263-87-6578 【Business Hours】 Lunch 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Dinner 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM 【Regular Holiday】 Tuesday (the following day if it's a holiday) 【Parking】 Dedicated parking available Please confirm the latest information with the shop. Don't forget to like and save so you can review it later!

2026 Limited this summer! 'Azumino Summer Vegetable Curry' An original curry made with fresh and delicious summer vegetables from Azumino! Available at 13 local restaurants. Serving period: until Monday, August 31, 2026 *Please note that the availability may change depending on each restaurant's situation. This time, we introduce 【Toyoshina Bandoko】 The dish is called 'Vegetable Curry Set' *This is a weekday lunch menu exclusive! Using fresh local vegetables, it offers a rich flavor that perfectly balances umami, sweetness, and spiciness. Additionally, it comes with a soft-boiled egg, making it the ultimate combination with the creamy yolk in the curry! Besides the curry, it includes soba, salad, and a hot spring egg in this value menu. Another recommended dish is the Shinshu specialty 'Otouji Soba.' Unlike many places that serve it in large pots for two or more, you can order it from just one serving. The restaurant is a long-established establishment located in a robust old house from the late Edo period, offering soba made with Azumino's famous water and local ingredients in its traditional cuisine. ----------------- Store Information ----------------- Toyoshina Bandoko 【Address】 5703-16 Toyoshina, Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture 399-8205 About a 9-minute walk from Toyoshina Station on the JR Oito Line 【Phone】 0263-72-6767 【Business Hours】 Lunch 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM (L.O) Dinner 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM (L.O) 【Closed】 Mondays (open for lunch only on holidays) 【Parking】 Parking available For the latest information, please check with the restaurant. Don't forget to like and save for future reference!

2026 Limited this summer! "Azumino Summer Vegetable Curry" An original curry made with fresh and delicious summer vegetables from Azumino! Available at 15 local restaurants. Serving period: Until Monday, August 31, 2026 *Please note that this may change depending on each restaurant's situation. This time, we introduce "Oshokujidokoro Misato" As soon as you enter, you will see a tank with fish swimming happily, and there are plenty of comics to enjoy. With counter seating, tables, and tatami rooms, you can enjoy meals with various groups. The menu is extensive, and you can choose the amount of rice, making it a place you will want to visit repeatedly. The "Curry with Lamb and Cilantro" is an adult curry that becomes addictive after just one bite. It’s spicy and perfect for summer, guaranteed to energize you, with fresh tomatoes adding a refreshing accent. The fragrant cilantro and freshly squeezed lemon enhance the flavor, making it easy to keep eating. I also tried the popular "Shinshu Salmon Donburi." The vibrant orange and beautiful Shinshu salmon is the pride of Shinshu. It comes with a salad and small side dishes, providing a satisfying portion. Be sure to try this as well. ----------------- Store Information ----------------- Oshokujidokoro Misato 【Address】 5059-10 Horikane, Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture, 399-8303 【Phone】 0263-72-6952 【Business Hours】 Lunch: Reservations only Dinner: 18:00 - 22:00 【Closed】 Wednesdays Please check with the restaurant for the latest information. Don't forget to like and save this for future reference!

2026 Limited to this summer! "Azumino Summer Vegetable Curry" An original curry made with fresh and delicious summer vegetables from Azumino! Available at 13 local restaurants. Serving period: Until Monday, August 31, 2026 *Please note that this may change depending on each restaurant's situation. Today, we introduce "Village Azumino" which offers "Chicken Tomato & Black Keema Curry," allowing you to enjoy two types of curry at once. The Chicken Tomato Curry is visually appealing with large chunks of meat, which crumble beautifully and are well-cooked. The impactful black Keema Curry is made with bamboo charcoal powder, offering a rich flavor that makes you want to eat it again and again. Above all, the sausage unique to this curry was exquisite! The homemade sausage primarily uses Shinshu pork, but surprisingly includes Shinshu salmon, making it light yet allowing you to truly taste the Shinshu salmon. We also enjoyed the "Jumbo Fried Shrimp Omelet Rice." The large fried shrimp that overflows from the bento box is satisfying! It's perfect for those who want to eat their fill. It comes with miso soup made with homemade miso and a salad. Not just for lunch, the rice served at Village Azumino comes from the Chūgyū District, and many vegetables used are also from the Chūgyū District. Reservations are required for lunch, so please make sure to book ahead before heading out. Village Azumino is conveniently located near the Azumino Interchange, offering various enjoyable experiences. You can also enjoy day-use bathing, making it a great stop before heading home from your trip. Additionally, there's the Azumino Glass Studio, where you can observe and experience glass-making, and the Yukio Tabuchi Memorial Museum, home to Japan's leading insect ecology researcher and nature photographer. With a large parking lot and share cycle ports available, it serves as a great starting point for your travels. ----------------- Store Information ----------------- Village Azumino 【Address】 6780 Toyoshina Minamihotaka, Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture 399-8201 【Phone】 0263-72-8568 【Business Hours】 Reservations only (Weekdays 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM) 【Closed】 Second Tuesday of every month (Open in August) Please check with the restaurant for the latest information. Also, don't forget to like and save for future reference!

2026 Limited this summer! "Azumino Summer Vegetable Curry" An original curry made with fresh and delicious summer vegetables from Azumino! Available at 15 local restaurants. Serving period: Until Sunday, August 31, 2026 *Please note that the availability may change depending on each restaurant's situation. This time, we introduce "Azumino Summer Vegetable Curry at Restaurant Abe" A retro-style, traditional Western-style restaurant. It's popular among people of all ages. With a rich menu, you might find it hard to decide what to order! Despite being generous in portion, the prices are very reasonable. A mountain of rice topped with a generous serving of nine kinds of deep-fried summer vegetables, making it quite filling! The vegetables are said to be made from fresh local ingredients. The curry has a gentle flavor, with a spicy kick that comes later, making it a delicious dish. Don't miss out on trying the homemade pickles as well. Additionally, we enjoyed the popular hamburger course lunch. Includes soup, salad, hamburger steak, rice or bread, dessert, and a drink. It's truly a satisfying lunch that makes you want to come back for more. ----------------- Store Information ----------------- Restaurant Abe 【Address】 8148-6 Hotaka, Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture 399-8303 【Phone】 0263-82-6047 【Business Hours】 Lunch 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM Dinner 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM 【Closed】 Irregular holidays 【Parking】 Dedicated parking available Please check with the restaurant for the latest information. Don't forget to like and save so you can refer back later! The restaurant has many table seats, and some seats offer a view of the Northern Alps. Recommended courses are listed, and it's impressive that the calories are noted. The hamburger is juicy and large, providing a satisfying meal. A completely satisfying lunch There's also a children's lunch available, and they provide toys to keep kids entertained while waiting for their food, which is great! It's often fully booked, so making a reservation is recommended.

Introduction of Fuchikashira from Wakedo Item Number: F380801 Title: Hinode Hansen zu Fuchikashira Signature: Hidetoshi (kao) Certification: N.B.T.H.K. Hozon Tousougu Dimensions: Fuchikashira - Height 38mm, Width 22.5mm, Height of Waist 13.4mm Head - Height 33mm, Width 16.5mm Period: Late Edo Period School: Omori School Explanation The Omori School is a prestigious school alongside the Ishiguro and Yanagawa schools within the Yokotani lineage, founded by Eishou who trained under Yokoya Somin, and it flourished with the second generation, Hidetoshi. Hidetoshi Omori was born in Sendai and became a disciple of Hidetoshi Omori. He was the son of Ichigyokusai Eichi and adopted the name Eichi for the second generation, but received the character 'Hidetoshi' from Hidetoshi, changing his name to Hidetoshi. He is a skilled craftsman specializing in dragon and lion motifs in the Omori style. This piece also features Yokotani-style sand inlay, showcasing the characteristic craftsmanship of the Omori School.

Yachiho Highland Nature Park and Flowering Tree Garden You can now see the beautiful sight of Asagimadara and Swallowtail butterflies at Yachiho Highland Nature Park and Flowering Tree Garden. It's perfect for nature walks, butterfly watching, and photography!✨ We look forward to your visit!😸👒

Introduction of the Tsuba from Wakeido Product Number: T380710 Title: Wave Tsuba Signature: Gazan Hidetsugu (kao) Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Hozon Tousougu Dimensions: Length 70mm, Width 65.5mm, Thickness 4.5mm Period: Late Edo School: Ohmori school Description Gazan Hidetsugu learned from Mito Kinko in the Ohmori school, with notable students such as Eino and Eiryuu. He specializes in the wave design of the Ohmori-ryu, and this piece is a typical example of his work. The waves are depicted with golden splashes, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship and high quality.

Introduction of Tsuba from Wakeido Model Number: T380709 Title: Setsurin baijyu karigane sukashi Tsuba Signature: Mumei Daigoro Certification: N.B.T.H.K. Hozon Tousougu Size: Length 84.8mm Width 84.4mm Thickness 3mm Period: Middle of Edo School: Kyo Sukashi Explanation Kyo Sukashi refers to the ground-sukashi tsuba made in Yamashiro Province, famous alongside Owari, Kanayama, and Akasaka tsuba. Similar to other sukashi tsuba, the technique is believed to have developed in the late Muromachi period, and during the Edo period, Kyo tsuba contrasts with the robust and powerful construction of Owari tsuba, being elegant and delicate. The patterns are refined and sophisticated, reflecting the culture of Kyoto. Among them, the tsuba handled by the tsuba merchant, Daimonji Gorobei, during the middle of the Edo period are particularly well-crafted and refined, collectively known as Daigoro tsuba.

Introduction of Tsuba from Wakedo Item Number: T380708 Title: Monsyosei zu Tsuba Sign: Gyoku ryu ken Nobukatsu Certification: N.B.T.H.K. Hozon Tousougu Size: Length 67.5mm, Width 61mm, Thickness 3mm Period: Late Edo School: Iwama school Explanation The Iwama school, founded by Masayoshi Iwama, has produced many skilled craftsmen such as Shinsui, Shinro, Shangluo, and Nobukatsu. Since Masayoshi Iwama studied under Naoyuki Hamano, the Iwama school left behind magnificent works characterized by the high carving of the Hamano style, producing many excellent pieces. This piece also features high relief inlay and color painting typical of the Hamano style, showcasing fine craftsmanship. The diagram of Monsyosei (also known as Bunshousei) The four stars of the ladle-shaped part formed from the first star of the Big Dipper, Kaisei, are deified as Tokai in China, revered as the god of high-ranking officials and success in the imperial examination. The character for 'kai' (demon) is composed of the characters for 'oni' and 'to' (ladle), depicted as a dancing deity holding a brush in the right hand and a ladle in the left. Bunshousei shines as the six stars next to Tokai, and together they are considered the gods of literature. These concepts were transmitted from China, and in Japan, they were regarded as deities bringing peace and prosperity, often depicted with a shachi (mythical creature).

Good morning! Azumino is sunny. It's a perfect day for sightseeing!♪ The temperature is expected to rise, so please be careful of heatstroke. A must-visit in Azumino is Ohisama Road!😆

Hello 😊 This is Waraji in Shosenkyo Gorge. It has been hot every day lately, hasn't it? 🌞💦 Still, the trees, birds, and insects in Shosenkyo seem to be enjoying this season, full of energy today as well. ✨ On the way to Shosenkyo, you can admire the majestic Mount Fuji, and in the valley, you can be healed by the cool streams and deep greenery. 🗻🌿 How about refreshing your mind and body in nature at Shosenkyo? 🍃 After enjoying nature, please take your time to savor a meal at "Waraji". 😊 At Waraji, we serve carefully grilled iwana (sweetfish) raised robustly in the summer streams, one by one. 🐟🔥 The aroma of the perfectly grilled skin and the flavor of the tender flesh. It's a proud dish that allows you to taste the blessings of nature as they are. 😋✨ You will enjoy your meal in a kominka (traditional house) that has marked 150 years of history. 🏡 The warmth of the wood envelops the space, creating a nostalgic feeling as if time flows slowly. 🌿 Why not forget about the busy days for a moment and spend some time relaxing in nature? 😊 With delicious dishes and a calming view prepared for you, all of our staff sincerely awaits your visit. ✨🍀

Let's fully enjoy the natural waterfalls during this hot summer! The Toyooka Tourism Association is offering waterfall tours exclusively in July and August. We have already received many reservations, but there are still a few spots available. If you're interested, please check the details and contact us! Let's refresh ourselves in the cool river of Abukawa Gorge!

Introduction of Tsuba from Wakeido Item Number: E380707 Title: Tsuki ni Hototogisu zu Tsuba Signature: Tokuoki (Shinoyama Tokuoki) Certification: N.B.T.H.K. Tokubetsu Hozon Tousougu Dimensions: Length 75.8mm, Width 69.7mm, Thickness 2.8mm Period: Late Edo School: Ohtsuki school Description The Ohtsuki school represents the Kyoto metalworkers and is founded by Ohtsuki Mitsukō, producing notable artisans such as Hidekō, Ōki, Hidekuni, Tokuoki, and Gessan. Shinoyama Tokuoki entered the school of Kawahara Hayashi Hidekuni, and in the second year of the Bunkyū era, he was commissioned by the House of Tokugawa to engrave the fittings of the shogun's sword. Due to his achievements, he was granted the title of Ōsumi Daijō, and the following year, in the third year of Bunkyū, he was awarded the title of Ikkyōsai for engraving the fittings of a short sword for Emperor Kōmei. He is a distinguished craftsman representing the Ohtsuki school. The tsuba depicting the cuckoo in the moon exhibits a refined use of space, showcasing remarkable inlay work with a design of hidden clouds, which is truly elegant.

Hello🌞 This is Crystal Sound✨ The summer sky has spread out so blue that it's dazzling, creating a scene full of seasonal beauty😊☀️ The iconic scenic spot of Shosenkyo Gorge, Kakuen Peak, is also beautifully highlighted against the blue sky✨ We invite you to come and see this breathtaking view😃 At Crystal Sound, you can closely admire various natural stones💎✨ The birthstone for July is famously ruby, but did you know that sphene is also one of July's birthstones?✨ It is said to carry the meanings of "success," "reform," and "permanence," providing new perspectives and positive energy🍀 Inside the store, we also display a giant heart-shaped rose quartz❤️ that is popular for photography📸✨ Together with the beautiful nature of Shosenkyo, we hope you enjoy the charm of natural stones😊 All of our staff are sincerely looking forward to your visit✨

I was healed by the many wind chimes in the greenery at a park I visited during my trip to Nagano.

A breathtaking view unfolds along the Sky Road. This trail runs through the Hokuriku Alps Panorama Ginza. Starting from the Azumino trailhead to Nakabusa Onsen, you will walk from Mt. Tsubakuro to Mt. Daitenjodake. Enjoy the view of Mt. Yarigatake as you hike! 😆 Please be aware that hiking carries risks such as sudden weather changes and getting lost. Always check the latest weather information before entering and plan according to your physical condition. Avoid solo hikes, ensure you have proper gear, and submit a "mountaineering report."

Introduction of the Tsuba from Wakeido Item Number: E380705 Title: Tsuba with Design of a Dragon Over Mount Fuji Signature: Unsigned, Toryusai School Certification: The Association for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords, Special Preservation Sword Fittings Dimensions: Height 76mm, Width 69mm, Thickness of the Seppa 2.5mm Era: Late Edo Period School: Toryusai School Description 　The Toryusai School was founded by Kiyotoshi Tanaka, who was born in the first year of the Bunka era and is known to have been connected with Haruaki Hōgen. The school developed a clever style known as Toryusai, training many disciples including Jūrō, Jūko, and Jūkei. 　This piece is distinctly Toryusai in style, showcasing a refined depiction of the dragon over Mount Fuji.

Hello 😊, welcome to Jewelry Town Shosenkyo Gorge 💎. July in Shosenkyo is a healing season filled with beautiful scenery created by vibrant green trees 🌳 and clear streams 💧. Surrounded by cool breezes 🍃 and the chirping of birds 🐦, why not forget your daily routine for a moment and take a leisurely stroll? ✨ In Shosenkyo, where stone shops 💎 and restaurants 🍴 are nestled in nature, you can enjoy meals and shopping while refreshing both your mind and body 😊🌿. In Jewelry Town, you can see a variety of natural stones, including beautifully shining opals 💎. We hope you enjoy meeting your favorite stone! ✨ Opal is a gemstone that symbolizes "hope", "luck", and "creativity" 🌈✨. It is said to bring out the charm and talents of its owner, supporting them in taking new steps 💖. 💎 Our staff is sincerely looking forward to meeting you all 🌸.