The coal mine train is an essential part of the history of Manda Pit. To transport coal, not only the mining locations but also the transportation system were crucial. Looking at the coal mine train reveals that Manda Pit was not just a single facility, but a significant part of a larger industry connected to railways, ports, and the entire region. 【Visiting Information】9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and middle school students / Manda Mine Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Miike Coal Mine #Industrial Heritage #Railway Heritage #Coal Mine Ruins #Modern Industrial Heritage #History Lovers #Manda Coal Mine #Coal Mine Railway #Industrial Heritage #Arao City #Kumamoto Travel #Japan Travel #World Heritage #Visit Japan

Umekita Plaza at Grand Green Osaka As you step into Umekita Park, the first thing that catches your eye is the "large roof" designed by the architectural unit SANAA. It envelops the space with three soft curves spanning 120 meters from north to south, beneath which lies a complex facility featuring the information dissemination center "PLAT UMEKITA," along with cafes and large event spaces. Surrounding it is the spiral staircase "Gate Lantern," which serves as a guiding light for people at night. The plants in the park are primarily selected from those native to the Uemachi Plateau in Osaka, evoking the city's history and culture. Trees that change color in autumn, such as cherry blossoms, maple trees, and katsura, along with flowers like azaleas and camellias, showcase the beauty of Japanese nature throughout the seasons. Why not take a leisurely stroll in the park, where the scenery changes with the seasons? You wouldn't believe that this is in the middle of the city There were hydrangeas blooming... It's a nice plaza filled with greenery in Umeda, Osaka... A great place has been created in the city center 😊😊😊.

At Manda Pit, brick buildings remain. Observing the color of the bricks, the shape of the windows, and the thickness of the walls evokes a sense of the substantial beauty found in the architecture of the modern industrial era. When taking photos, pay attention not only to the entire building but also to the texture of the walls and the details of the design. It's a spot where you can enjoy both history and architecture. Visiting Information: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (or the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and middle school students / Manda Mine Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Brick Architecture #Travel Photography #Architectural Photography #Industrial Heritage #Modern Industrial Heritage #Miike Coal Mine #Scenic Japan #Historic Landscapes #MandaCoalMine #Arao City #Kumamoto Travel #Brick Architecture #Industrial Heritage #World Heritage #Japan Travel #Visit Japan

Event Announcement 📣 The "Tokachi Ohira Plain Exchange Festival," where you can experience the charm of agriculture up close, will be held on Sunday, June 7th 😊 We have prepared a variety of content, including experiential programs in collaboration with local students and universities, as well as gourmet delights from Tokachi 🎵 🔷Agricultural Machinery Experience: From historical old farming tools to cutting-edge robotic tractors and toy tractors, a wide range is on display‼ 🔷Hands-on Workshops: Experience making "pork skin bookmarks" and "pressed flower bookmarks" with students from Obihiro Agricultural High School 😍 🔷Fun Learning Booths: Experience cow displays and hands-on activities from Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine's "Dairy Farming, How About It?" as well as free tastings and surveys of meat products devised by high school students. Tokachi's gourmet delights will also gather together! ❗😍 Enjoy delicious local flavors to your heart's content 🍴 A special day where both adults and children can get excited! We warmly invite you to come with your family 🤗 https://www.tokachi-a-muse.jp/daiheigen...

The winding room is an important facility for understanding the history of Manda Pit. In the coal mine, large machinery and precise operations were necessary to safely connect the underground and above ground. The appearance of the building and the remaining spaces evoke the advanced technology that supported the coal mine. When visiting Manda Pit, be sure to pay attention to its role as well. [Visiting Information] 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: Adults and university students 410 yen, high school students 310 yen, elementary and junior high school students 210 yen / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Winding Room #Arao City Tourism #Miike Coal Mine #History of Coal Mining #Industrial Heritage #Historical Architecture #Modernization of Japan #History of Technology #Educational Travel #Manda Coal Mine #Industrial Heritage #Japanese History #Kumamoto Travel #Arao City #World Heritage #Travel Japan #Visit Japan

One of the iconic highlights of Manda Pit is the Second Vertical Shaft Headframe. The steel structure stretching towards the sky strongly conveys the scale of the coal mine. The impact of looking up at it on-site is exceptional compared to seeing it in photos. Whether you view it from a distance or examine the details of the steel up close, you can enjoy the unique beauty that comes with industrial heritage. 【Visiting Information】9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and middle school students / Manda Mine Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Second Vertical Shaft Headframe #Miike Coal Mine #Industrial Heritage #Modern Industrial Heritage #Steel Architecture #Historical Spot #Photo Journey #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #Kumamoto #IndustrialHeritage #WorldHeritage #JapanTravel #ArchitecturePhotography #VisitJapan

Yokeno Entei This is a stone and concrete sediment control dam located in the upper reaches of the Shigenobu River. Constructed in 1935, it is made entirely from stones sourced from the islands of Setouchi. In spring, the collaboration of cherry blossoms and stone masonry is beautiful, and around Golden Week, a local event called "Shigenobu River Koinobori Hanging" takes place, attracting many visitors. The prefectural direct-operated project began construction in 1932. A secondary dam, measuring 92 meters in length, was built downstream of the primary dam, which is 115 meters long, with both featuring a surface made of granite. The excellent condition of the remaining structure showcases the advanced construction techniques of the time. It has been designated as a registered tangible cultural property by the national government.

Is there really such a different world in Nagoya? Yokisō, located in Chikusa Ward, Nagoya City, is a villa garden built by Jirozaemon Itō, the first president of Matsuzakaya, during the Taisho to Showa periods. Surprisingly little known even among locals, it is a hidden gem favored by connoisseurs. The vermilion bridge spanning the pond, the charming wooden corridor, and the autumn scenery with vibrant maple leaves reflecting on the water create a beauty reminiscent of Kyoto's famous gardens. The tranquil space enveloped in shades of green, yellow, and red allows you to forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Admission is free, making it easy to visit, and it remains uncrowded even during the autumn foliage season. Be sure to enjoy this hidden Japanese garden, the best in Nagoya. 2-5-17 Hōō-chō, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi-ken, Japan.

Is this Nagoya? It’s a corridor from another world that makes you do a double take. The Nagoya City Archives, located in Higashi Ward, Nagoya City, is an important cultural property built in 1922 in the Neo-Baroque style. Compared to Nagoya Castle and Sakae, it has fewer tourists, making it a hidden architectural gem where you can take your time exploring. Upon entering the building, you are greeted by an elegant marble staircase, stained glass, and arched windows that create a majestic space, making you feel as if you've wandered into a European palace. Its overwhelming beauty has made it a popular filming location for dramas and movies. The fact that admission is free and you can easily drop by is another delightful point. You can discover a new side of Nagoya. 3-1 Shirakabe 1-chome, Higashi-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi-ken, Japan.

April 26, 2016, Narai Inn, Shiojiri City: Cherry Blossom View Narai Inn was as lively as always. The riverside is very beautiful with fully bloomed cherry blossoms. Sennen-ji offers a great view of the cherry blossoms from above, making it a recommended spot.

The weeping cherry blossoms at Zōsen-ji in Iida City, Nagano Prefecture, lit up on March 28, 2026. The blossoms were in full bloom. There were a few photographers present. I visited after seeing a photo in the brochure for the one-tree cherry blossom tour in Iida City. There were so many beautiful cherry blossoms that I couldn't see them all in one day. I hope to explore again next year.

[Announcement] Taking place in 2023! Introducing the "Zenkoji Gokaicho"✨ "Zenkoji Front Deity Gokaicho" 【Event Period】From April 4, 2023 (Sunday) to June 19, 2023 (Saturday) *This is a special opportunity that occurs once every seven years in the traditional calendar. ✨It tends to get crowded after Golden Week, so April, when it is relatively less busy, is recommended.✨ 【What is Zenkoji Gokaicho】 The main deity of Zenkoji cannot be viewed directly (it is a secret Buddha). The "Gokaicho" is the event where the front deity, which has the same appearance as the main deity, is publicly displayed once every seven years. 【What is the Eko Pillar】 The golden thread tied to the right hand of the central Amida Buddha of the front deity is tied to the Eko Pillar. Touching this pillar connects you to the front deity, and it is said to bring merit. 【Main Event Schedule】*2023 March 28 (Sunday) "Eko Pillar Acceptance Ceremony" April 3 (Saturday) "Front Deity Transfer Ceremony" April 4 (Sunday) "Opening Grand Ceremony" April 24 (Saturday) "Midway Garden Ritual (Tendai Sect)" May 8 (Saturday) "Midway Garden Ritual (Pure Land Sect)" May 16 (Sunday) "Shinonoi Great Lion Offering" June 19 (Saturday) "Conclusion Grand Ceremony" June 20 (Sunday) "Front Deity Return Ceremony" #Zenkoji #Zenkoji Gokaicho #Event #Nagano City #Nagano Tourism

Behind Kōgen Shrine, located along the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Route's Nakahechi course, you can see a large camphor tree with a trunk circumference of over 6 meters, as well as a cluster of ebine orchids. Take your time to enjoy the Kumano Kodo while reflecting on the ancient people.

This is a waterway (Lake Biwa Canal) constructed during the Meiji era to draw water from Lake Biwa in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, to Kyoto. It has been designated as a national historic site.

Would you like to enjoy a walk where you can experience Saijō’s unique spring water culture, known as "Uchinuki," during a peaceful season? We recommend a 2.4 km walking course along the Aquatopia water system (a waterside-friendly area), stretching from Kanon Water to the Saijō Domain Jinya Ruins. From mid-April to early May, you can enjoy beautiful seasonal scenery: wisteria blossoms at Teishō-ji Temple (Kannon Hall) near the starting point, and vibrant azaleas in the moat-side area at the endpoint, creating a beautiful harmony of flowing water and seasonal flowers. Along the way, you will find many attractive stops, including Uchinuki spring water tasting spots, cafés, sweet shops, and local farmers’ markets—perfect for a relaxing and leisurely experience. In the historic moat-side area around the Ōtemon Gate from the Edo period, a beautiful streetscape unfolds where waterside scenery blends with outstanding examples of modernist architecture, such as the local museum, folk craft museum, and a church. This unique landscape showcases the harmony of history, architecture, and pure spring water—an essential part of Saijō’s charm. At the Saijō Tourist Information Center (open year-round, 9:00–18:00), visitors can obtain a Water Walking Map and information about bicycle rentals. It is recommended as a starting point for your exploration. Spot Information Teishō-ji Temple (Kannon Hall) 47 Kitagawa, Saijō, Ehime 793-0042, Japan Saijō Domain Jinya Ruins 234 Akeyashiki, Saijō, Ehime 793-0023, Japan Saijō Tourist Information Center 798-1 Ōmachi, Saijō, Ehime 793-0030, Japan Image List Image 1: Kanon Water Images 2–3: Wisteria at Teishō-ji Temple Images 4–7: Along the Aquatopia walking course Image 8: Ōtemon Gate Images 9–10: Folk Craft Museum / Local History Museum Images 11–12: Church Images 13–15: Area around the Jinya Ruins.

On May 5th, 2026 (Tuesday, national holiday), the "Kuniyoshi Castle Festival 2026" will be held around the Wakasa Kuniyoshi Castle History Museum. Experience the Warring States period at this impregnable castle, where Nobunaga, Hideyoshi, and Ieyasu entered. It's a fun event for both adults and children! Date: Tuesday, May 5th, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM Venue: Around the Wakasa Kuniyoshi History Museum and Tokusho-ji Temple (25-2 Sagaki, Mihama Town, Mikata-gun, Fukui Prefecture) Admission: Free Rain Policy: The event will proceed in rain (the stage venue may change partially to "Tokusho-ji" in case of rain). Access: 5 minutes by car from the Wakasa Mihama Interchange on the Maizuru-Wakasa Expressway (Free parking available for about 220 cars; please follow the directions of the staff) About 3 kilometers from Mihama Station (approximately 20 minutes by rental bicycle) Contact: 050-5235-2185 (Please note there was an error in the phone number on the pamphlet.) Schedule 9:00 AM Opening Ceremony 9:30 AM Kunimoto Matchlock Gun Research Association (Special venue) 10:05 AM Sakurai To 10:40 AM Kazane (Ocarina) 11:10 AM Sanshin Group Shinpu Eisa 11:40 AM Mihama Jazz Orchestra 12:15 PM Kyoto-Nagaokakyo Omotenashi Bushotai Tsutsuji 12:50 PM Bubu no Hoshitachi (Guitar performance) 1:20 PM Sunflower (Guitar performance) 2:00 PM Historical Stories 3:00 PM Closing Declaration *Please note that the content and schedule may change without notice due to various circumstances. Thank you for your understanding. Merchandise Sales Kyoto-Nagaokakyo Omotenashi Bushotai Tsutsuji Sakurai To Kuniyoshi Association Mini Festival Ring toss, Super Ball scooping, etc. Play, learn, and experience the Warring States period! Handwritten castle seals by descendants of the castle lord Location: Special booth in front of the Wakasa Kuniyoshi Castle History Museum Cost: 1,000 yen per sheet Numbered tickets: Distribution starts at 9:00 AM Event Time: 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM Kuniyoshi Castle Historical Walk (Hiking) *Rain or shine Location: In front of the Wakasa Kuniyoshi Castle History Museum Departure: 10:00 AM (Expected to finish around 11:30 AM) Registration: 9:00 AM to 9:50 AM Capacity: 50 people (First-come, first-served on the day) Historical Stories (1st Kuniyoshi Castle History Lecture for 2026) Location: Special stage for the Kuniyoshi Castle Festival Event Time: 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Armor Experience *Canceled in case of rain Available all day Cost: Free Location: Learning room of the museum Target: From children to adults Delicious Food Market (Limited items available) Vendor List: Mahana Table, Brick House, Momonji, Tsuru to Kame, YuuViva, Nakanishi Seika, Coffee Shop Hygge, Mihama Town Social Welfare Council, Kuniyoshi Association, Funatako Tokusho-ji (Indoor Rest Area) Authentic vegetarian cuisine (from 10:00 AM) Temple CAFE (from 10:00 AM)

Date and Time: Saturday, April 18, 2026 *Cancelled in case of rain (no backup date) Venue: Mitsuke-juku Street The "Enshu Daimyo Procession" will faithfully recreate the scene where the feudal lords participating in the Sankin-kotai (alternate attendance) stay at the 28th station of the Tokaido, Mitsuke-juku, welcomed by the inn staff, the main inn, and townspeople on Mitsuke Main Street. The "Mai-guruma (Dance Cart) Pulling and Fire Dance" will reenact the story of the Mitsuke Gion Festival. In addition, various performances will be showcased throughout Mitsuke Main Street as a stage. Iwata City tourism ambassadors will also participate in the procession wearing kimonos! *Traffic regulations will be in effect from 11:00 AM to 8:30 PM on the day.

Tsubosaka-dera Temple's Sakura Daibutsu April 4, 2026 It was rainy, so there were reflections. This time, parking at Tsubosaka-dera was completely reservation-based, eliminating traffic, and we were able to smoothly reach the parking lot at the reserved time.

The cherry blossoms in Bujo are at their best. Depending on the weather, I expect they will be enjoyable through the end of this week. Please do visit. Elsewhere across the city, trees are also in full bloom. Bujo Park 793-0035 Fukutake, Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture

Mud play at the “Sky Terraced Rice Fields” with ocean views! 🌿🌊 Join us on Sunday, April 19th for a one-day Rice-Planting Trial Tour—participants wanted! ✨ This special event aims to develop a future hands-on experience program. After planting in this stunning location, everyone will enjoy a delicious lunch together! 🍚🥢 Children and adults alike—come ready to get muddy and have fun 😊 📍 Location: 3315 Shiki, Reihoku (We will send directions to the exact experience site to those who register) ⏰ Time: 10:00–12:00 💰 Fee: 1,000 yen (includes insurance and lunch) Sign up via the link in our profile (Tourism Association website) or the QR code on the flyer! 📲

We are giving away rhinoceros beetle larvae! A rhinoceros beetle larva giveaway event takes place at the Tokkome Cherry Blossom Festival 🌸 Dig up a larva from the soil yourself! 🌟Date: Saturday, April 4 🌟Time: First session starts at 11:45 AM Second session starts at 1:45 PM ※Ticket stubs will be distributed at headquarters 30 minutes before each session! 🌟Venue: Kaigara-yama Park 🌟Number distributed: 100 larvae per session 🌟Who: Children up to elementary school age 🌟Other: Canceled in case of rain or severe weather Commerce and Tourism Division https://www.city.kamagaya.chiba.jp/kanko-bunka-sports/kanko/kabutomushiproject/kabutomushi-event/r8kabutomushi.html...

Rinyoji Temple dyed in spring crimson This temple is home to a weeping cherry tree that is about 200 years old. A limited-time light-up of the tree is popular. ※Those who visit are asked to consider donating to the Cherry Blossom Fund 🙏 Rinyoji Temple, Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture

📣 World Heritage Balloon Shuttle Bus Service Begins! 🚌✨ 📍Free sightseeing bus touring Sakai, the World Heritage town with a gas balloon 🎉 From Friday, March 20, you can easily hop between Daisen Park, where a gas balloon offers sweeping views of the Mozu Kofun Group World Heritage site, Sakai Risho no Mori, which exhibits items related to Sen no Rikyu and Akiko Yosano, and Old Sakai Port, a famous sunset spot! 👀 Make sightseeing in Sakai freer and more comfortable. Please take advantage of this service💕 ■ Service period: Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays from March 20, 2026 to March 31, 2027 ■ Operating hours: 9:00–18:00 (about one round trip per hour, eight trips per day) ■ Stops: ① Sakai Old Port Porto Mare (Dorsett by Agora Osaka Sakai) ② Sakai Risho no Mori ③ Mozu Kofun Group Visitor Center ■ Fare: Free From March 20 to 22, the loop-style event Himo Tokeba Sakai 2026 – OSAKA SAKAI EXPO – will be held, letting you experience the charms of Sakai. On the 20th, MYAKU-MYAKU will also appear in Daisen Park. Why not ride the shuttle bus and easily visit experience programs, gourmet food, and the stamp rally? 🚩 For information about Himo Tokeba Sakai, visit this URL 🔗 https://www.sakai-tcb.or.jp/news/detail/20251217133435... 🔍 For details, search for "World Heritage Balloon Shuttle Bus"! 🔗 https://www.sakai-tcb.or.jp/feature/detail/106...

#Unraveling Sakai: Ohtori Taisha Main Hall One‑Lap Guided Tour⛩️✨ Usually you can only worship the main hall from the front, but this time you can view it from the sides and even from the rear… Join a rare guided tour that lets you walk all the way around the main hall while offering prayers! This is a luxurious chance to hear a direct explanation from the gonnengi (senior shrine assistant) about the main hall and the sacred gate, which were newly designated tangible cultural properties by Sakai City in April 2025. After feeling the weight of history up close, you will receive a tour‑exclusive “seasonal goshuin” (seal) 🌸 Spend a special moment in the serene atmosphere of the sacred precincts. 📅 Dates and times: ・Friday, March 20 — 11:00 AM ・Saturday, March 21 — 2:00 PM 📍 Meeting place: Ohtori Taisha Ema‑do Hall 💰 Participation fee: ¥1,500 (includes the seasonal goshuin; cash only) ✅ No reservation required (about 30 people per session; first come, first served on the day) 🔍For details, search “Unraveling Sakai 2026”! 🔗https://www.sakai-tcb.or.jp/news/detail/20251217133435...

Untying Sakai — Discover Even More: A “Shinto Ritual × Sumo” Tour Experience 🤼‍♂️⛩️ Did you know about the deep ties between shrines and sumo? Join a guide as we unravel how every sumo ritual—from the shiko leg stamps to the sonkyo squat—connects with Shinto ceremonies. On the day, you’ll also get to tour a training area that’s usually off-limits! ✨ (This is not an observation of live practice, but you will feel the atmosphere of the dohyo up close.) All participants receive a goshuin shrine stamp and a sumo ranking banzuke that fans will love! 🎁 For two days only, official merchandise from the Osaka Spring Tournament will also be on sale. 📅 Date and time: ・Friday, March 20 (holiday) 2:00 PM ・Saturday, March 21 11:00 AM 📍 Meeting place: Ohtori Taisha Ema-do Hall 💰 Fee: 1,500 yen (includes goshuin and banzuke — cash only) ✅ No reservation required (about 30 people per session, first-come, first-served) 🔍 For details, search “Untying Sakai 2026”! 🔗https://www.sakai-tcb.or.jp/news/detail/20251217133435...

Himo Tokeba Sakai: Tsuruya Musical Instruments Shamisen Performance 🪕✨ Experience again the thrill that wowed audiences on the stage of the Osaka-Kansai Expo! Tsuruya Musical Instruments (@tsuruya_music_instruments) presents a breathtaking shamisen performance at three locations around the city. Enjoy traditional tones and a unique performance honed on the global stage of the Expo. Savor resonant music and lively conversation set against the charm of each venue. We’ll bring you a luxurious moment in special spaces, from a historic tea room to an observation lobby overlooking Sakai. 📅 Dates and times: March 20 (Fri, public holiday)–March 22 (Sun) 📍 Venues: ・sakai city tea room shin-an ・Sakai Risho no Mori ・MI-TE Sakai (Sakai City Hall 21st Floor Observation Lobby) *Times and venues vary by day. 💰 Admission: Free (*Performances at shin-an and Risho no Mori take place during tea sittings; a separate tea service fee applies.) ⏰ Program: Performance & talk (about 20 minutes each; three shows per day) 🔍 Search “Himo Tokeba Sakai 2026” for more details! 🔗 Check the special site via the link in the profile https://www.sakai-tcb.or.jp/news/detail/20251217133435...

Tracing the footprints of stories, an adult getaway.🌿 Amakusa Reihoku Literary Walk unearths Reihoku’s literary heritage and proposes a new kind of journey. Recently, with the cooperation of people inside and outside the town, we held a monitored tour📖✨ Literary monuments blending into Reihoku’s beautiful scenery and the landscapes beloved by great writers. As you walk listening to a literary tourism guide’s commentary, the familiar streets begin to sparkle like a novel. A stroll themed around “words” offered a wonderfully indulgent refresh that makes you forget the rush of daily life. From now on, we will prepare to bring this “story” and the landscapes that gave it life to many more people. Look forward to future updates!

Himototakeba Sakai: Sakai Risho no Mori × Czech Pavilion <Main Hall Tea Room × Contemporary Art Tea Utensils> The masterpiece "La Traviata" turned into wagashi. A special tea gathering featuring contemporary art tea utensils 🍵✨ At the Main Hall Tea Room of Sakai Risho no Mori (@rishonomori), we will serve tea using original tea utensils created by contemporary artists that were also used at the Expo site ✨ The confection is an elegant limited fresh wagashi inspired by the Czech master Alphonse Mucha’s work "La Traviata" 👀 Enjoy a luxurious time in a serene space, savoring art with all your senses♪ "Main Hall Tea Room (each session about 60 minutes)" 📅 Dates: Friday, March 20 (national holiday) – Sunday, March 22 ※ Session times vary by day, please check carefully 📍 Location: Sakai Risho no Mori 🍵 Participation fee: ¥1,000 (includes "La Traviata" wagashi) ✅ How to apply: Reserve in advance on the Sakai Risho no Mori reservation site (each session limited to 20 people) (URL: https://reserva.be/sakairishonomori... ) ⚠️ The contemporary artists’ tea utensils are limited in number. 🎁 Special experiences available!※ See the reservation site for sessions and details. ・Tea whisking experience On designated sessions on Saturday the 21st and Sunday the 22nd, enjoy the chance to whisk your own tea 🍵 ・Shamisen performance On a designated session on Saturday the 21st, Tsuruya Musical Instruments (@tsuruya_music_instruments) will present a shamisen performance 🪕 🔍 For more details, search for "Himototakeba Sakai 2026"! 🔗 https://www.sakai-tcb.or.jp/news/detail/20251217133435...

🌸For a spring outing🌸 Take a leisurely tour of Sakai’s old highways and relax at Kokoan with views of the Mausoleum of Emperor Hanzei🍵 How about a stroll around Sakai’s old highways during cherry blossom season?🚶‍♀️🚶‍♂️🚶 A sightseeing volunteer guide accompanies the tour, so you’ll learn many new things✨ After the walk, unwind at Kokoan next to Hochigai Shrine⛩️ with sweets and tea🍡🍵 Enjoy a tranquil time in a lovely location overlooking the Mausoleum of Emperor Hanzei😌 Discover the charms of nearby Sakai you might not know, together with the cherry blossoms🌸 *Photo of the cherry blossoms at the Former Kosenji Temple Akai Site: taken on March 29, 2025* 📅 Date and time: Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Meet at 9:50 or 12:50. Reservations required at least three days in advance 💰 Fee: 4,000 yen (includes Kokoan voucher) 📍 Meeting place: Sakai City Hall 21st-floor observation lobby *On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays one person may join. From Monday to Thursday we accept requests for groups of two or more.* 🔍For details, search “Sakai old highway tour” https://www.sakai-tcb.or.jp/tourism/detail/201...

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Videos. We are Wakeido, a specialty shop for buying and selling Japanese swords and traditional blades. We operate in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, buying, selling, and appraising nihonto (Japanese swords) and fittings. Founded over 70 years ago, we have built lasting relationships with many people through swords. In this first post, we would like to introduce who Wakeido is and what kinds of swords we handle. ■What is Wakeido? Wakeido is a sword specialist based in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, and we have provided many Japanese swords and sword fittings to customers. Our strength lies in offering authentic, NBTHK-certified items (appraisal papers issued by the Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords). We have experienced sword appraisal specialists on staff who provide reliable transactions and accurate guidance based on expert judgment and trust. We strive to give first-time visitors a welcoming consultation experience, so please feel free to contact us. ■What is a Japanese sword? A Japanese sword is a traditional blade made using Japan’s unique forging techniques and is often seen as a symbol of samurai culture. Beyond being a weapon, its aesthetic form, functional excellence, and historical background have earned it high regard domestically and internationally as an art object and cultural asset. Japanese swords generally have the following characteristics. ・They use a special steel called tamahagane ・A beautiful hamon (temper line) appears on the blade ・Their structure and hardening techniques make them hard to break, resistant to bending, and very sharp ・Shapes and features vary by period and swordsmith, giving them strong appeal for collectors At Wakeido, we consider it our important mission to convey these attractions of Japanese swords with correct knowledge and to pass them on to the next generation. ■What kinds of swords and fittings does Wakeido handle? Wakeido deals in a variety of sword types, including tachi, katana, wakizashi, and tanto. We also offer many sword fittings such as tsuba (handguards), fuchigashira (collar and pommel), menuki (ornamental grip pieces), and kozuka (small utility knife handles). These items often have high value as art objects and are popular for decoration and collecting. ■What about Wakeido’s online sales? If you cannot visit the store, we invite you to use our online shop for purchases. We ship to sword enthusiasts worldwide, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Europe, and Asia. How to order: https://wakeidou.com/pages/117/... Our official website includes product photos and detailed descriptions, so you can shop with confidence from anywhere in the country. One of our goals is to act as a bridge that shares the appeal of Japanese swords with the world. ■How can you sell or have a sword appraised? We evaluate and buy unwanted swords, swords inherited through succession, or blades whose value is unknown by assessing their condition and whether an appraisal certificate is present to arrive at a fair valuation. Estimates are, of course, free. We offer several purchase methods: in-store purchase, home-visit purchase, and mail-in appraisal services. You can choose the option that suits your convenience, so please feel free to consult us first. ■Where is Wakeido? Access information Our shop is located at 1-chome Kashiwa-cho, Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture. It is about a 13-minute walk from the West Exit of Nagaoka Station, and parking is available. Business hours: 9:00–18:00 Closed: 1st and 3rd Sundays ■For Anything Related to Japanese Swords, Turn to Wakeido We at Wakeido want to connect with everyone who is interested in Japanese swords and fittings through bonds formed around swords. ・Those who want to try purchasing a Japanese sword ・Those who want to sell or have a sword appraised ・Those who want to expand their collection ・Those who want to experience a sword for the first time We welcome both domestic and international customers. We will help you enjoy the appeal of Japanese swords as a cultural asset and pass that appeal on to the future. Thank you for your continued support of Wakeido. https://wakeidou.com//