Ryuo's free shuttle bus ⇔ Yudanaka Station will operate 🚍 from Saturday, December 21, 2024 The bus stop is in front 🚌❄🏂🎿❄ of the Yudanaka Station Information Center

The Tourism Bureau's original goods are now 🥳👏 on sale We did design production + product development ✨️ with the four themes of Hot Spring, Skiing, Agricultural Products, and Monkeys that Yamanouchi Town is proud of The concept is "Yamanouchi Retro" 🕰🎥🎞 It's a nostalgic but cute design with a retro theme! In addition to long sleeves and washcloths, there are also magnets, stickers, sacoche and Ballpoint pens! I would be very happy 🥰 if many people could pick it up for everyday wear and memories of your trip It is only sold at the Yamanouchi Information Center opposite Yudanaka Station!

[❄️ Winter in Gokase 2025 ❄️] Until Friday, February 28, 2025! Yes — winter too!! Instagram Campaign 🥳✨ After following the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account (@gokase_kanko), post a wintery photo taken in Gokase town on Instagram with these two hashtags: #Winter in Gokase 2025 and #Date and place of the photo (for example: #Unoko Falls) 🤳❤️‍🔥 One winner will receive a Gokase specialty product every day during the campaign period 🎁✨ Plus! The best entries will receive a gift set of Gokase specialties 🤩👏 Entries you post may be featured on the Gokase Tourism Association’s social media and other channels 💡 [Period] From Monday, December 30, 2024 to Friday, February 28, 2025 ⚠️ Other terms are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Please be sure to read them before entering. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️Please take care to avoid accidents while photographing. ------------------------------------------ …Actually, the voting period for “Gokase Autumn Foliage 2024” is still underway, so I thought mixing them might be confusing and planned to announce this after the New Year, but… I really want you to post New Year photos too 🥺🙏!!! I couldn’t wait and posted early 😂 We look forward to many beautiful winter photos of Gokase ☃️💕 Please keep the entries coming — thank you 📸🙏

Gokase Highland Ski Resort Reopens After Two Seasons 🎉 Today, December 20, Gokase Highland Ski Resort resumed operations for the first time in two seasons 😭👏✨ The road to the resort collapsed during the 2022 typhoon, making passage impossible and forcing a prolonged closure, but today it has safely reopened 🥹❤️‍🔥 A long-awaited grand opening saw the mayor’s remarks and a ribbon-cutting by honored guests, including Minami-chan, who returned to join the celebration, officially opening the slopes ⛷️✨ Eager skiers and snowboarders who had been waiting for the resort to reopen began to glide down the runs with style, and the landscape of old seemed to be restored once more 😭✨ It’s a deeply moving moment… We hope the resort, a winter symbol of Gokase, will continue to regain its bustle and flourish even more from now on 😌🙏 The season has only just begun! Please come visit Gokase Highland Ski Resort and enjoy the slopes 🤩💫 Gokase Highland Ski Resort Official Website http://www.gokase.co.jp/ski/#...

A heavy snow warning was issued in Shinanomachi today, and we have been busy with snow removal since the morning. Starting tomorrow, the Kurohime Highland cross-country ski course will have a temporary OPEN. From December 15th to 20th, you can use it for a cooperation fee of 200 yen, so please take this opportunity to visit! The official OPEN will begin on December 21st, so please check that as well. When you come, please take great care of your safety on the way. We look forward to seeing you! https://www.shinano-machi.com/news/5273...

Rock Valley Ski Resort will open on Sunday, December 15th!　 (Please note that due to lack of snow, Use will be limited to some courses for the time being.) ） 【Business hours】 9:30~16:00 (Last Lift Boarding 15:40) 【Skiable Course】 Only part of the family slope *The lodge is open from 9:00~17:00. All the staff are looking forward to your visit. 【Inquiries about Roadside Station and Ski Resort】 Business hours 9:00~18:00 TEL: 0158-42-4536 (common to ski resorts) FAX：0158-42-0132 〒099-0344 150-1 Nogami, Engaru Town, Monbetsu-gun, Hokkaido Roadside Station Engaru Forest Okhotsk

[Ski resorts in Omachi City are open!] Jiigatake Ski Resort opens on Friday, December 13, and Kashimayari Ski Resort starts the season on Saturday, December 14. Omachi’s winter season has finally arrived ✨ Powder snow awaits you all ⛄ For details, please see the official website ☺

Gokase Highland Ski Resort Safety Prayer Ceremony Today, Thursday, December 12, a safety prayer ceremony was held at Gokase Highland Ski Resort, which is set to reopen in eight days for the first time in three years. 🙏✨ Around 60 people boarded shuttle buses from the base to gather, and amid heavy media coverage, a Shinto ritual took place inside the ski center. 😌 The ritual proceeded smoothly, and after offering prayers for the resort’s safety and success, participants toasted together. 🍻 At the post-ceremony gathering, everyone spent a relaxed time, eagerly anticipating the ski area’s opening. 🤗 Along the road up to the resort, snow had accumulated in places, and the slopes were adorned with frost-covered trees that created a magical scene. ❄️✨ When the wind blows, it really is cold, isn’t it? 🥶 I came fully bundled up today, but cold is cold. 🤣 Still, a ski resort should feel like this! Right? 💪❤️‍🔥 Only a little time left until opening. 🤩 Let’s hold on a bit longer and wait with excited anticipation. ✨

December 10th Jiigatake Ski Resort Pre-Opens!! 2024☃ A heavy snowfall has hit Omachi City over the past few days, and the Jiigatake Ski Resort pre-opens tomorrow at 8:30 a.m.! ⛷ To celebrate the opening, day lift tickets are offered at a special price, 2,000 yen for adults and 1,000 yen for children. ⛷✨ (Season passes are valid / regular prices resume from the 13th) Please come and join us😉

Ski season is here!! Sahoro Resort Ski Area opened on Monday, December 2nd. As of today, the Central Street course is open with the No. 6 pair lift running, and the snow depth is 30 cm. Through this Friday the 6th, a special opening day ticket is available (Adults 4,000 yen / Children and Seniors 3,200 yen), so you can fully enjoy your first ski of the season. Temperatures are expected to drop toward the weekend, so make your season debut at Sahoro Resort Ski Area!!

Kiso Area Ski Resort Information 2024-2025 We will inform you of the scheduled opening dates of each ski resort this season. * There are subject to change due to weather, etc., so please check each Home page for details. A unique ski and snowboard area awaits you! Scheduled opening date of the ski resort ★12/14 (Sat) Kaida Highlands Maia Ski Resort (Kiso Town) Address: Kiso Town, Kiso-gun, Nagano Prefecture Kaida Highlands Nishino 5346-1 ℡：0264-44-1111 ★12/20 (Fri) Ontake Ski Resort (Otaki village) Address: 3162 Otaki village, Kiso County, Nagano Prefecture ℡：0264-48-2240 ★12/20 (Fri) Nogi Pass Ski Resort (Nagawa, Matsumoto City) Address: Nagano, Matsumoto City, Nagawa 1173-13 ℡：0263-79-2246 [Open period only] ★12/21 (Sat) Yabuhara Highlands Ski Resort (Kiso village) Address: 2857-16 Kiso Village, Kiso-gun, Nagano Prefecture, Kiso Village, Nagano Prefecture ℡：0264-36-1622 ★12/21 (Sat) Kiso Fukushima Ski Resort (Kiso Town) Address: Kiso Town, Kiso-gun, Nagano Prefecture Shinkai 10034 ℡：0264-27-6021

Jozankei Hot Spring× Sapporo International Ski Resort Collaboration plan is here! Enjoy stress-free skiing at Jozankei Hot Spring, located in a national park, 26km from the center of Sapporo City, and Sapporo International Ski Resort, which has 100% natural powder snow! (1) Accommodation plan with one-day ticket is now available Exclusive plans with IC tickets sold by each hotel are full of Privileges unique to Hot Spring resorts, such as bathing after skiing, luggage storage before and after check-in, and services unique to each hotel. (2) Dedicated shuttle bus "Jozankei Ski Liner" By reservation-only bus, you can sit reliably near the inn and go straight to the ski resort with ease. (3) Opened a special rental counter "Premium Gate" Use those who need a rental can use the "Premium Gate" exclusively for Jozankei Accommodation guests. You can enjoy your ski time without waiting for a rental. In addition to sightseeing in Sapporo, please plan skiing to Hokkaido at Jozankei Hot Spring! For details, please check the "Jozankei Hot Spring Ski Plan" site on the Jozankei Tourist Association website.

December 20, 2024 Gokase Highland Ski Resort OPEN🎉 On Thursday, August 1, at Gokasecho Town Hall, a press announcement confirmed that Gokase Highland Ski Resort is scheduled to open this season👏✨ The access road to the ski resort collapsed in the 2022 typhoon and became impassable, forcing Gokase Highland Ski Resort to close for two seasons. At last this season! “The winter of revival begins.” 🥳🎉 Under the banner “Reopen – Reunite –” we look forward to reuniting with many people from inside and outside the town, from other prefectures, and from abroad 🥰 Let’s enjoy this winter at the ski resort ⛷️🏂✨ OPEN dates: December 20, 2024 – early March Hours: 8:00–16:30

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

Hello everyone. This is the Yamanouchi Town Planning and Tourism Bureau. Nagano Prefecture Shimotakai County Yamanouchi Town is a charming Sightseeing spot that is rich in Nature, history, and Hot Spring. Blessed with a beautiful Nature environment where you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons, you can spend a relaxing time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In this First Post, I will introduce Recommendations for Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture. ■■Introduction to Sightseeing spots in Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture■■ ◇Yudanaka Shibu Hot Spring Village Yudanaka Shibu Hot Spring Village is one of the Hot Spring resorts Representative of Japan. With a history of more than 1,300 years, this hot spring village consists of the following nine hot spring resorts. ・Jigokudani Hot Spring ・Kamibayashi Hot Spring ・Shibu Onsen ・Andai Hot Spring ・Yudanaka Hot Spring ・Shinyudanaka Hot Spring ・Hoshikawa Hot Spring ・Honami Onsen ・Kakuma Hot Spring There are many inns and Hot Spring facilities in the Hot spring resort. In particular, the communal bath tour called "Out-spa Tour" in Shibu Onsen is popular, and you can spend a relaxing time while feeling the atmosphere of the hot spring bath. In addition, at night, the Hot spring resort is illuminated by lanterns, creating a fantastic atmosphere. ◇Jigokudani Yaen-koen Jigokudani Yaen-koen is famous for being the only place in the world where wild Japanese macaques can be seen bathing in hot springs. In the snow-covered landscape, the sight of the monkeys soaking in the hot water gives us peace. You can observe the monkeys in their Nature state up close, so it is a Spot that can be enjoyed by everyone from children to Adult. ◇Shiga Highlands The UNESCO-listed Eco Park Shiga Highlands Located in Joshinetsu Highlands National Park, surrounded by 2,000-Meters-class mountains. It is one of the snow resorts Representative of Japan and is crowded with many skiers and snowboarders. In summer, it is also popular as a Highlands resort where you can enjoy Hiking and trekking. You can enjoy the beautiful nature of the four seasons, and especially during the Autumn leaves season, the entire mountain is enveloped in vivid colors. ◇Kita Shiga Highlands Kita-Shiga Highlands, which has four ski resorts, is one of the one of the most Heavy snowfall area in Nagano Prefecture Restrooms available where Soba buckwheat noodles Cultivation has been held for a long time. Climbing to an Elevation of 1,700 Meters on the world's largest 166-seater ropeway, you can see various sky patterns such as a sea of clouds and a starry sky throughout the year. ◇Mt. Yokoteyama Mt. Yokote, located in the Shiga Highlands area, is a mountain with an Elevation of 2,307 Meters, and on a clear day, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the Northern Alps and Mt. Fuji. The summit is easily accessible by Use Skylator escalator and Lift, and you can easily enjoy the spectacular view. It has been selected as one of the "100 Sunset Spots in Shinshu", and you can enjoy the golden sky and mountains of Shinshu. ◇ Shiga Kusatsu Highlands route It is a mountain sightseeing road that passes the Highest Point of the National Highway at an Elevation of 2,172 Meters, about 41 Kilometers connecting Yudanaka Shibu Hot Spring Village and Kusatsu Hot Spring in Gunma Prefecture. It is a popular Driving Route that is open from Spring to autumn, and you can see the Northern Alps, Mountains of Jyoshu, and Mt. Fuji from the roadside, and it is exhilarating to drive while admiring the beautiful scenery. Many tourists visit during the autumn autumn leaves season, and you can enjoy the spectacular view of the mountains dyed in red and yellow. ■■Gourmet Specialty products of Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture■■ ◇Oyaki Oyaki is a Local cuisine that Representatives Shinshu and is loved by many people in Yamanouchi Town. The Oyaki, which is made by wrapping ingredients such as Standard Nozawana and eggplant in a flour crust and baking or steaming, has a simple but deep There are taste. Seasonal Oyaki using Local Agricultural Products is also available. ◇Pottery pottery is a traditional Yamanouchi Town craft made by drying Mulberry and Persimmon tree Nature for about 3 to 5 years, processing it into a teacup, etc., and carefully polishing it. ◇Sukagawa Bamboo Crafts It is a traditional craft designated by the governor of Nagano Prefecture with a history of about 280 years and a Bamboo Crafts using Nemagari bamboo that grows wild in the Yamanouchi Town of Nagano Prefecture. Bamboo crafts, where Craftsmanship and Sense shine, are simple, Restrooms available, beautiful, and practical. And it is also popular as a souvenir and is recommended as a One of a kind that can be used for a long time. ◇ Popular thank-you gift for Furusato Nozei tax payment Thereare local beers handmade with apples and peaches grown at the foothills of the Shiga Highlands, Shine Muscat, and spring water from the Shiga Highlands are popular. ■■Events in Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture■■ ◇Summer Festival YAMANOUCHI more and more Summer Festival YAMANOUCHI more and more is a popular summer Festival in Yamanouchi Town that is Held in every August. The Festival is a concerted effort by people from Local, and includes a variety of Events such as dancing and fireworks festival. In particular, the climactic fireworks are spectacular and brightly color the night sky of Yamanouchi Town. ◇Shiga Highlands Hill Climb It is a hill climb race aiming for the highest point of the national highway "Shibu Pass". Shibutoge Pass is said to be a sacred place for hill climbers, and Impression is the scenery of rich nature that changes with elevation in the 13 kilometers to the goal. At the Highest Point Stone Monument of the National Highway, you can also see the magnificent sea of clouds that spreads all over. ■■Tourist information in Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture■■ Yamanouchi Town in Nagano Prefecture is an attractive sightseeing spot where history, nature, and hot springs interwoven. Please visit Yamanouchi Town in Nagano Prefecture and experience the splendor of this place. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will provide Recommendations for Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture, so thank you!

Nice to meet you all and welcome to COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! This is the Shinshu Tateshina Tourist Association. Tateshina Town, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture, Tateshina Town, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture is an area with spectacular Nature landscapes such as Mt. Mount Tateshina, Hot Spring, and ski resorts. During the summer season, many people visit it as a summer resort, and you can enjoy sports such as tennis, Putting golf, archery, and fishing in the Highlands area around Lake Megami. In addition, there are three ski resorts and the Tateshina Town, and in the winter season, you can enjoy a wide range of Winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding, from families to advanced skiers. Throughout the year, we will introduce the charm of Tateshina Town in various ways, so please look forward to it. 【 Specialty products and gourmet food of Tateshina Town 】 In Tateshina Town, the clear underground water stream from Mount Tateshina grows delicious crops. Specialty products such as "Koshihikari rice produced in Tateshina" and "Tateshina apples" have been well received by many people. In addition, "Tateshina beef" raised on a highlands at an elevation of 800 meters in Tateshina Town is a brand beef that Shinshu is proud of with plenty of umami. Specialty products created by the Blessed natural environment of the region are also lined up at "Roadside Station Goddess Village Tateshina NokimuraMegami no sato". How do you like it? as a Souvenirs of sightseeing in Tateshina Town? 【 Sightseeing spot full of charm of Tateshina Town 】 『 Mount Tateshina 』 "Mount Tateshina" is one of the 100 Famous Mountains of Japan towering on the border between Tateshina Town and Nagano Prefecture Chino City. Elevation 2,531 meters. Restrooms available is one of the 100 famous mountains in Japan, but it is a popular mountain where even beginners can enjoy climbing. It takes about 4 hours round trip, so it is also recommended as an introduction to Introduction to Yatsugatake. Lake Megami The Lake Megami in the birch Highlands of the foothills of Mount Tateshina is also Restrooms available in the photo Spot, which is popular for its reflections that beautifully reflect the Mount Tateshina on the surface of the lake. Activities such as boating and canoeing are also available. "Lake Shirakaba" It is a lake with a circumference of 4 kilometers at an elevation of 1400m, and it is a spot where you can enjoy various ways throughout the year, such as fresh greenery in Spring, summer getaways in Summer getaway, Autumn leaves in autumn, and snow in winter. The area around the lake is well maintained with a promenade surrounded by pure white birch trees, so you can enjoy walking. 『 Gosensui Nature Park 』 From Tateshina Ranch, you can take the gondola Lift and get there in about 5 minutes. Elevation 1,830 Meters, you can see about 300 kinds of alpine plants and many wild birds. 『 Tateshina Teddy Bear Museum 』 There are 11,000 teddy bears on display from all over the world, which can be enjoyed by men and women of all ages. The exhibition is divided into 18 themes from 15 countries around the world. "Venus Line Onna no Kami Observatory" Driving route in Yatsugatake Chushin Kogen Quasi-National Park. Since it runs in the Highlands, it is recommended for summer driving and touring. Located Elevation 1700 Meters, the Onna no Kami Observatory overlooks the Yatsugatake and Southern Alps mountains. "Shirakaba Resort Ikenotaira Family Land and Ikenotaira Hotel" Shirakaba Resort Ikenotaira Family Land is an amusement park where you can enjoy merry-go-rounds and Roller coaster, and there are also Putting Golf, horseback riding, and Athletic. The 2024 season will open on Saturday, April 20, 2024. It is also recommended as a base for sightseeing at the Ikenotaira Hotel Tateshina, which is attached to Ikenotaira Family Land. 『 Roadside Station Goddess Village Tateshina Nokimura（Megami no sato） 』 At the sales office "Nongi Village" in the Roadside Station, there are many products recommended for Tateshina Products Fresh Agricultural Products and Souvenirs. It is a recommended Spot where you can take a break while looking at the superb view of Mt. Asama. A trip to enjoy the Nature, culture, and gourmet food of Tateshina Town will be a special time for everyone. Enjoy the experience that can only be experienced in Tateshina Town. We will send out Recommendations for Tateshina Town, so please follow us!

Nice to meet you all and welcome to COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! This is Katsuyama City Tourism Town Planning Co., Ltd. Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture is a city with a population of about 20,000 located in the northeastern part of Fukui Prefecture. It is one of the One of the best in Japan heavy snowfall areas and is designated as a Special heavy snowfall area. With the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture in 2024, access from Central Tokyo has become more convenient. In this First Post of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, I will briefly introduce Recommendations for Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture. Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture is a city of dinosaurs Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture is also known as the excavation site of dinosaur fossils in One of the best in Japan. In the 1980s, when it was said that dinosaur fossils were not excavated in Japan, crocodile fossils were found in Katsuyama City, and full-scale excavation of dinosaur fossils began in 1989. In the 1990s, dinosaur fossils such as iguanodon were collected, and in 1995, the skeleton of the whole body was reconstructed for the first time in Japan. In 2000, the world's three largest dinosaur Museum "Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum" opened, and the name of Katsuyama City became known around the world. In the 2010s, new species of dinosaurs were announced one after another, and in 2017, five types of dinosaur fossils, including Fukui Raptor and Fukuisaurus, and their excavation sites were designated as "National Natural Monuments". ◇Introduction of Sightseeing spots in Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture ・Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum The vast exhibition facilities consists of three zones: "The World of Dinosaurs," "Earth Science," and "History of Life," and you can fully enjoy the world of dinosaurs with 50 dinosaur skeletons, hundreds of 1,000 specimens, large-scale Restored Diorama, and Video. ・Open Air Dinosaur Museums It is a facilities where you can Visiting the site the actual excavation site that opened in 2014 in Katsuyama City Chatan town the largest dinosaur fossil excavation site in Japan. At the Fossil Excavation Experience Plaza, you can experience excavation by hitting stones brought from the excavation site, and learn about the Scenes of dinosaur fossil excavation while listening to expert explanations. ・Daishizan Seidaji Temple Echizen Daibutsu Opened in 1987, the Echizen Daibutsu of Daishizan Seidaji Temple is 17 meters tall and exceeds the size of the Nara Great Buddha. There are 1,281 stone and gold Buddhas enshrinement on the walls of the Mikata of the Great Buddha. ・Heisan Jihakusan Shrine Elevation known as the center of the Hakusan faith, which is open to the Mt. of 2,702 Meter. It is said to have been founded nearly 1,300 years ago. Famous for the moss that spreads all over the area in front of the worship hall. ・Ski Jam Katsuyama It is one of the largest snow resorts in western Japan, with vast slopes and abundant snow quality, and there are courses that can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced skiers. Activities such as trekking, mountain biking, park golf, paragliding and Segway are available in summer. Spot where you can enjoy nature in all four seasons. ・Katsuyama Castle Museum It is a history museum set up in the castle tower with a height of 57.8 meters. From the observation deck on the top floor, you can overlook the nature of Katsuyama City. ・Roadside Station Dinosaur Valleys Katsuyama Roadside Station Dinosaur Valleys Katsuyama is a facility that serves as a tourist base in Katsuyama City. A large number of Fresh Local Agricultural Products and Specialty Products are available, and many tourists Visit every day. Spot is a great stop along the way. ◇Introduction of festivals and events in Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture ・Katsuyama Sagicho Festival The Katsuyama Sagicho Festival is a traditional Festival that has been held in Katsuyama City for more than 300 years, Held in every February. The highlights are the "Floating drums" on the Turrets in each town and the Finale "Dondoyaki". It is said that the Scene of "Floating drums", in which three One set playfully slap the Drum, is strange festival. ◇Introducing Tourist Information of Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture Katsuyama City, which is known around the world as a dinosaur town, is a valuable area where you can feel close to dinosaurs, such as dinosaur excavation experiences. In Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture, not only children who like dinosaurs, but also Adults can enjoy it. Please visit Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture and experience its charm. In COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, we will introduce recommended Tourist Information in Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture, so thank you!

Nice to meet you! Shinshu Shinano Town Tourist Association. Shinanomachi, Kamisuunai-gun, Nagano Prefecture is a town in northern Nagano Prefecture that borders Niigata Prefecture. Its population is about 7,000. Surrounded by mountains such as Myoko, Kurohime, Togakushi, Iizuna, and Madarao, the town also boasts many popular attractions like Lake Nojiri and Kurohime Plateau. On Cool Japan Video, we will share recommended sightseeing information for Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture, known as the hometown of Kobayashi Issa. Thank you for your support. ◆What is Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture? ◆ In winter, Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture welcomes visitors with superb powder snow. Popular ski areas such as Kurohime Kogen Ski Resort, Myoko, and Madarao Kogen make this region ideal for winter sports. It is also popular with international visitors from countries including Australia and Taiwan. Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture is broadly divided into four areas. ◎ Kurohime Highland area ◎ Tangram Madarao Area ◎ Kashiwabara and Fujisato area ◎ Lake Nojiri area ◆Recommended sightseeing spots in Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture, by area◆ ~~~ Kurohime Highland area ~~~ Kurohime Highland lets you fully enjoy nature typical of Nagano Prefecture: dahlias and cosmos in summer, and powder-snow skiing in winter. ◎ Kurohime Fairy Tale Museum & Fairy Tale Forest Gallery The Kurohime Fairy Tale Museum blends literature, art, and nature. It houses and exhibits valuable materials by Michael Ende and Miyoko Matsutani, beloved across generations, as well as fairy tales and picture books from around the world and local folktales. ◎ Kurohime Highland Dog Run This expansive all-grass dog run covers about 3,000 square meters. Built to take advantage of the natural hills, it is enjoyable for dogs from small to large breeds. ◎ Kurohime Highland Cosmos Garden The Kurohime Highland Cosmos Garden is filled with beautiful cosmos flowers from summer into autumn. The colorful fields of cosmos spread across the vast plateau like a painting. The garden offers an observation deck and walking paths, so you can relax and enjoy the flowers at your own pace. ◎ MtKurohime MtKurohime is a symbolic mountain of Shinanomachi, with an elevation of 2,053 meters. Trails are well maintained, offering enjoyment for beginners through advanced hikers. From the summit, a 360-degree panorama opens up, and on clear days you can see distant mountain ranges. MtKurohime showcases seasonal nature and is an attractive spot for hikers and mountain enthusiasts. ◎ Naena Falls Naena Falls is one of Shinanomachi’s representative scenic spots. With a dramatic drop of 55 meters, the waterfall’s majestic scenery captivates visitors. Walking paths are developed around the area, allowing you to stroll while listening to the roar of the falls. In particular, the autumn foliage season creates a spectacular contrast between colorful leaves and the waterfall. ~~~ Tangram Madarao Area ~~~ This area is popular as a resort area. It offers many amenities such as golf courses and hot spring facilities. ◎ Mt. Madarao (Madarao-yama / Madarao-san) A volcano with an elevation of 1,382 meters, it is one of the Five Mountains of Northern Shinshu (MtMyoko, Mt. Madarao, MtKurohime, MtTogakushi, Mt. Iizuna). At the summit there is a shrine housing 13 statues of Nyorai. ~~~ Kashiwabara and Fujisato area ~~~ This is the hometown of haiku poet Kobayashi Issa. Within the area are the Issa Memorial Hall and Issa’s former residence, where you can learn about his life and history. ◎ Issa Memorial Hall A museum built to commemorate the haiku poet Kobayashi Issa, who was born in Kashiwabara, Shinanomachi. It presents many of his works and portrays Issa’s life and the Kashiwabara of his era. ◎ Michi-no-Eki Shinano Furusato Tenboukan Michi-no-Eki Shinano Furusato Tenboukan provides tourist information and local products from Shinanomachi. In addition to local specialties and souvenirs from Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture, you can enjoy fresh local produce and handmade goods. ~~~ Lake Nojiri area ~~~ In summer on Lake Nojiri you can enjoy activities such as kayaking, SUP, and cruises. ◎ Lake Nojiri Naumann Elephant Museum This museum showcases fossils of Naumann elephants discovered at Lake Nojiri and life-size models, offering many attractions. Centered on the results of the more than 40-year-long Lake Nojiri excavations, it researches and exhibits the natural environment around the lake from about 50,000 years ago to the present. ◎ Lake Nojiri At the lakeside you can enjoy boating, fishing, canoeing, and other outdoor activities. In summer, swimming and camping are popular, making it a recommended spot for families and couples. The lake is also historically significant for the Naumann elephant fossils recovered from its bed, allowing visitors to enjoy nature and history together. ◎ Shomyoji Temple Located quietly in the mountain valley, its precincts are surrounded by seasonal nature. In spring, the weeping cherry blossoms bloom beautifully, attracting many visitors. ◆Recommended activities in Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture◆ ◎ Rental bicycles in Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture During the green season when the ski resorts are closed, sightseeing by relaxed cycling while feeling the breeze of Shinanomachi is recommended. The town offers rental bicycles at three locations: the information center in front of Kurohime Station (Shinano Town Tourist Association), LAMP Lake Nojiri, and Nojiri Lake Resort. ◎ Minpaku and farm stays in Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture About 3,000 elementary and junior high school students visit annually to experience farm and rural life through homestays and farm stays. The local government and residents have established a solid reception system. ◆Local specialties of Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture◆ Crops such as corn, tomatoes, bell peppers, eggplants, and soba are local specialties of Shinanomachi. Shinanomachi is one of the leading paddy monoculture areas in the northern Nagano region, and locally grown Akita Komachi and Koshihikari rice are also popular. ◆Festivals and events in Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture◆ ◎ Lake Nojiri Fireworks Festival About 2,000 fireworks are launched from Lake Nojiri. In 2024 this beloved local event will celebrate its landmark 100th edition. ◆Tourist information for Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture◆ Shinanomachi is a town blessed with rich nature, history, and warm people. With seasonal landscapes and outdoor activities, Shinanomachi is an ideal destination for families and couples. We will continue to share recommended sightseeing information for Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture, so we appreciate your support.

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.

How do you do! This is the Togakushi Tourist Association. Togakushi, Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture was created in 2005 when Togakushi Village was incorporated into Nagano City. Access from Nagano Station is about 60 minutes by bus without transfer, and it is also a well-located tourist destination. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will send out recommended information on Togakushi, Nagano City! Best regards. ==Legend of Togakushi, Nagano City== Nagano City Togakushi is steeped in myths and legends. Mt. Togakushi Mountain is revered as the home of the nine-headed dragon, the god of water, and has been worshipped and flourished by many people since ancient times. ==Togakushi Shrine and Togakushi Kodo == One of the tourist spots in Togakushi is Togakushi Shrine. It is a shrine with a history of about 2,000 years that was founded in the foot of Mt. of Togakushi Mountain, and consists of five shrines: Okusha Shrine, Naka Shrine, Hokosha, Kuzuryusha, and Hino-Mikosha. It is a temple where many Shukubo have gathered since ancient times, and there are many attractions such as the scenery of cedar trees over 400 years old on the Okusha Shrine approach, and many worshippers visit throughout the year. The road that connects Togakushi Shrine Okusha Shrine and Zenkoji Temple in the center of Nagano City is the "Togakushi Kodo" carved out by Shugenja. The ancient road is dotted with famous places and old sites such as "Ichinotorii first torii", "Fushi-wogamisho", and "Inkstone", and you can trace the trajectory of Togakushi's faith and culture by walking. ==Popular tourist destinations in Togakushi, Nagano City== In Togakushi, Nagano City, there are other recommended sightseeing spots besides Togakushi Shrine. Here is a brief introduction to some of them. ・Kagami Pond At 1,200 meters Elevation, the Kagami Pond offers a beautiful view of the mirroring of Togakushi mountain range on the surface of the pond. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the four seasons. ・Mt. Mt.Iizuna It is one of the Five Mountains of Northern Shinshu and has an elevation of 1,917 meters. There are three mountain trails: the Togakushi Ski Resort Koshimizu slope, the West Trail, and the South Trail. The Trekking course takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes each way, so even beginners can enjoy climbing. ・Togakushi Ski Resort It is a ski resort where you can enjoy Togakushi in winter, and from the top of the mountain you can see Mt. Togakushi Mountain, Mt. Takatsuma, and the Northern Alps. Slope with 19 mountain trails of smooth powder snow can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced skiers. ==Beloved Specialty Products of Togakushi, Nagano City== Togakushi Soba, which has been passed down with a long history and unique techniques, is one of Japan's Three Great Soba Noodles. It is also known as a popular Specialty Products for its traditional crafts and Togakushi Bamboo Crafts, in which a single craftsman consistently finishes everything from collection to processing using Chishimazasa, which grows naturally in the Togakushi. These Specialty Products are created by the rich nature of Togakushi and traditional techniques. It is also recommended as a souvenir when sightseeing in Togakushi. ==Accommodations in Togakushi, Nagano City== When sightseeing in the Togakushi of Nagano Prefecture, we recommend Use Shukubo as a memory of your trip. Shukubo is a temple or shrine accommodations where you can enjoy a beautiful historic appearance and traditional Vegetarian cuisine. Shukubo, Minshuku, Pension, Hotel, etc. are also available, so please Use the Accommodations that suit your travel plan. ==Enjoy your trip to Togakushi, Nagano City== Togakushi, Nagano City, is an area that is attractive for its mysterious natural landscape, rich history, faith and culture, and local specialty products. Come and spend a peaceful time and feel the beauty of nature and the depth of history. We will continue to send out recommended information about Nagano City Togakushi, so please follow us!

This is the Shinshu Nagawacho Tourism Association. Nice to meet you! Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture, lies in central Nagano with abundant nature and a living history. ◇ History of Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture When the Nakasendo route linking Edo and Kyoto ran through the area in the Edo period, Nagawacho hosted two post towns, Nagakubo-juku and Wada-juku, whose traces remain as tourist spots today. ・Nakasendo: 28th Station Wada-juku Located at the foot of Wada Pass, a difficult section with about an 800-meter elevation change on the Nakasendo, many travelers rested and restored their energy here. The nationally designated historic sites Wada-juku Main Camp, Rekishi no Michi Shiryokan Kawachiya, and Daikokuya stand side by side, letting you feel the atmosphere of the Edo period. ・Nakasendo: 17th Station Nagakubo-juku In the Edo period there were 43 inns, making it the second largest of the 26 post towns in Shinano. Hoshikuso Pass in Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture, has been a source of obsidian for ages, and many people lived there. Hard, easily worked obsidian served as material for stone tools for some 30,000 years. ◇ Attractions in Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture◇ ・Utsukushigahara Highlands This lava plateau centers on Mt. Ogatou at 2,034 meters and offers sweeping views of Mount Fuji, Yatsugatake, and the Northern Alps. You can also see peaceful scenes of cows grazing on Utsukushigahara. The evacuation tower called the Tower of Beauty, placed in the highlands' center to ring a bell and protect climbers when fog forms, has become a symbol of Utsukushigahara. ・Roadside Station Marumero No Eki Nagato A recommended spot for buying souvenirs, offering fresh local vegetables and specialties. In June 2020 a direct-sales shop with an Edo-period–style exterior, Marche Kokuyo, opened. ・Kokuyo Water Near the tollgate of the Wada Pass toll road, the famous water plaza springs from bedrock filtered through obsidian. It is listed among Shinshu’s 37 Famous Waters. ・Nagato Hot Spring Yasuragi no Yu This day‑use hot spring facility adjacent to Roadside Station Marumero No Eki Nagato features a sodium sulfate spring, one of Japan’s three renowned “beauty” spring types. There is an open‑air bath and a source‑flowing “kama bath.” ・Wadashuku Onsen Fureai no Yu A day‑use hot spring located within the vast sports park Yuyu Park. The spring quality is calcium–sodium sulfate. From the azumaya‑style open‑air bath you can enjoy seasonal scenery. ・Obsidian Experience Museum Excavation results are presented clearly through actual stone tools, animations, and models. ・Hoshikuso-kan Obsidian Mine Exhibition Room Projection mapping directly onto strata illustrates Jomon‑period obsidian mining revealed by excavations, making the process easy to understand. ※Visitors must register at the Obsidian Experience Museum before entering. ・Blanche Takayama Ski Resort A skier‑only resort boasting an 80% clear‑sky rate. With a variety of runs, it’s a ski area families can enjoy. ※The 2023–2024 season ended on March 31. ◇ Events in Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture◇ ・Otaya Festival An annual festival held around January at Furumachi Toyoke Grand Shrine. Five floats are dedicated within the town. ・Wada-juku Post Town Festival A festival during the Obon period that recreates the history and culture of Wada-juku, drawing many visitors. At night lanterns light the post town. ◇ Local specialties and products of Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture Local specialties include Dattan‑soba and deep‑fried rainbow trout. These products, nurtured by Nagawacho’s rich nature, delight many visitors with their fresh flavors. ◇ Enjoy your visit to Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture Nagawacho welcomes you with abundant nature and streets where the atmosphere of the Edo period remains. We will share recommended information to help you fully enjoy your trip to Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture, so please follow us. We sincerely look forward to your visit.

Hello to all COOL JAPAN VIDEOS viewers! This is the Shinshu Suzaka Tourism Association! Suzaka City, Nagano Prefecture, home to a population of about 50,000, is located in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, about 90 minutes by car from Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture. Suzaka City has a long history, flourishing in the Silk industry from the Meiji era to the early Showa period, and in the city you can see storehouses and merchant houses with big wall construction that retain the remnants of that time. We will send out recommended information full of the natural beauty of Suzaka City and the charm of historical buildings on COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, so please look forward to it. ==Must see tourist spots in Suzaka City, Nagano Prefecture== Here are some recommended sightseeing spots in Suzaka City. Please use it as a reference for sightseeing in Suzaka City! ・Garyu Park In Garyu Park, you can enjoy about 600 cherry blossom trees that have been selected as "100 best cherry blossom viewing spots". Other flowers such as iris, wisteria, azaleas, and hydrangeas also decorate the park, and you can feel the beauty of nature throughout the year. ・Suzaka City Zoo The zoo in Garyu Park has about 50 species and 230 animals. There are events that can only be experienced here, such as "Capybara Onsen" and "Night Zoo Expedition", and "Digital Animal Park for Everyone" established by Sudaka Cable TV, where you can watch several kinds of animal videos live-streamed 24 hours a day. ・ 100 selections of waterfalls in Japan "Yonago Great Falls" The road collapsed due to a typhoon in the first year of Reiwa and was closed, but the road was opened in May 2023. Located in the southeastern part of Suzaka City, Yonago Falls is one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan, with two waterfalls Fudo Falls and Gongen Falls that fall in a straight line down the caldera cliffs of Mt. Hyakumei and Mt. azumayasan straddling the border with Gunma Prefecture. ・Kura townscape In the Edo period, Suzaka City, where the domain office of the Suzaka clan "Hori clan" was located, flourished as a jinya town. It flourished in the Silk industry after the Meiji era, and there are many warehouse-making buildings that show the prosperity of that time. Why don't you go around the townscape with the Kura townscape walking map? ・Minenohara Plateau It is a plateau with an altitude of about 1,500 meters ~ 1,600 meters overlooking the Northern Alps and Five Mountains of Northern Shinshu. In the summer, you can enjoy highland sports such as tennis, golf, and trekking as a summer resort, and in the winter, it is a ski resort that entertains many people. ・Suzaka Art Park This facility is located on the south side of Garyu Park. It is a general term for three facilities: the World Folk Doll Museum, the Suzaka Print Museum, the Hiratsuka Unichi Print Museum, and the Historical Building Park, where you can experience history, culture, and art. During the Hinamatsuri season, the World Folk Doll Museum also hosts popular events such as "30-tiered decorations" and "Thousand Dolls Festival", and the Suzaka Print Museum exhibits "Tiered and Hanging Hina Decorations". ・Sekiya Onsen Yukku LAND It is a hot spring facility with a panoramic view of Five Mountains of Northern Shinshu and the night view of Suzaka City and Nagano City. There are 9 bathhouses, 4 saunas, restaurants, freshly baked bread factories, and other substantial facilities. ==Beloved events and festivals in Suzaka City, Nagano Prefecture== ・Garyu Park Sakura Festival It is a cherry blossom festival held in Garyu Park, and in 2024 it will be held between April 1 Mon ~ 21 Sun, 2024. You can also enjoy the fantastic scenery by lighting up the cherry blossoms at night. ・Kattakata Festival It is a historic festival that will be held for the 46th time in 2023 and is a summer tradition in Suzaka City. Giant "Ryu Mikoshi" and dancers exhaling white smoke parade through the streets of Suzaka City. ==Specialty Products of Suzaka City, Nagano Prefecture== Suzaka City is rich in delicious specialty products loved by the locals, such as fresh fruit, miso, soba noodles, and oyaki. In particular, Shine Muscat, apples, grapes, etc. are cultivation, and their sweetness and freshness leave the name of the fruit kingdom "Suzaka City, Nagano Prefecture" wanted. It is also popular as a thank-you gift for Furusato Nozei tax payment. ==Enjoy the best trip in Suzaka City, Nagano Prefecture== Suzaka City in Nagano Prefecture welcomes you with its beautiful nature, rich history, and delicious local cuisine. Spending time in Suzaka City will be an irreplaceable memory for everyone. We will send out recommended information about Suzaka City, so thank you!

Since the start of this month, Shintoku has unexpectedly enjoyed many springlike days, yet yesterday the town saw 45 cm of snow fall continuously. In an instant the town turned into a silver-white landscape. Also, Shintoku Ski Resort, which had been closed for lack of snow since February 14, will reopen from tomorrow. Look forward to it! #Hokkaido #Tokachi #Shintoku #Shintoku Town Tourism Association #a springlike day #snow #a silver-white landscape #ski resort #Shintoku Mountain Ski Resort #reopening

Ski Class In Hokkaido, there are regions where students have ski lessons during physical education class. At the elementary and junior high schools in Nishiokoppe Village, teachers and students come here together to ski. They leave their skis at the ski resort lodge. The lifts in Nishiokoppe use a slightly tricky style: you hold the handle with one hand and press the bar against your waist as you go up. It’s surprising to see some elementary school students riding them smoothly. Inside the lodge, there is an attendant who operates the lift and handles other duties.

【Oiso Town】 Departing Oiso! Day trip bus tour for skiing and snowboarding at Kawaba Village (Notice) A ski and snowboard tour will be held in Kawaba Village, Gunma Prefecture, which has an economic partnership agreement with Oiso Town. The tour also stops at Kawaba Denen Plaza, ranked No. 1 among roadside stations nationwide. You can also apply for lift tickets, rentals, and ski school at the same time♪ Date and time: Saturday, February 3 Application period: Until 5:00 PM on Friday, January 19 Event organizer: Council for Creating Oiso’s Unique Comfort Please enjoy this Oiso round-trip day bus tour

Thank you for waiting! Shintoku-yama Ski Resort finally opens on January 20! This winter saw large temperature swings in Shintoku town and snowfall was slow to arrive, but thanks to snow from late December through recent days we have managed to open safely. Shintoku-yama Ski Resort is a family-friendly slope that people from beginners to advanced skiers can enjoy. The view from the summit is spectacular, and you can ski with thrills while looking out as far as Mt. Meakan and the Daisetsuzan mountain range. • 1.3 km from Shintoku Station — 4 minutes by car, 15 minutes on foot • Rental sets available [Contact: 0156-64-5546] For more details, please check the Shintoku town website.

Ski Area Open The ski area in Nishiokoppe has opened on January 13th! It looks like local children were quick to hit the slopes 😆 On nights when the lifts operate, why not stop by for a run after work?

Zao Ski Resort I want a lot of snow to fall on the mountains

Introducing the post of the "Iwanai Tourism Association" COOL JAPAN VIDEOS official social media account! Iwanai, Hokkaido hokkaido, Iwanai-chō is a town located in the western part of Hokkaido. It is also famous as the birthplace of asparagus. In the town, there are sightseeing and activity experiences such as "auto camp Marine View", "Benkei no Tokake Rock", and "IWANAI RESORT". You can enjoy it.

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Video, nice to meet you! We are the Higashikawa Tourism Association. We will share attractive tourism information about Higashikawa-cho in Hokkaido, home to Daisetsuzan National Park, Japan’s largest national park, on Cool Japan Video, so please look forward to it! Higashikawa-cho sits in central Hokkaido and overflows with natural blessings. It enjoys excellent access, about a 10-minute drive from Asahikawa Airport to the town center. Uniquely for Japan, Higashikawa-cho does not have a public water supply system. Beautiful natural water formed by Daisetsuzan’s snowmelt seeping deep into the ground serves as the town’s domestic water and is used in many places, including restaurants. Agriculture benefits from these abundant water resources, producing delicious rice and vegetables with exceptional flavor. One of Higashikawa-cho’s charms is its proud hot springs. Higashikawa-cho has two hot spring areas, Asahidake Onsen and Tenninkyo Onsen, both located within Daisetsuzan National Park. Around Asahidake Onsen there is no typical hot-spring town; the landscape is carefully managed with height limits and spacing regulations. Day-trip bathing is available, so please stop by during mountain climbs or hikes. You can luxuriate in the hot spring while soaking in the natural scenery. Tenninkyo Onsen is also popular for its reputed benefits for diabetes and arteriosclerosis. Two hot-spring facilities operate there, and as of June 2023 both lodging and day-trip bathing are available. Nearby you can enjoy Hagoromo Falls, selected as one of Japan’s top 100 waterfalls. Beyond hot springs, Higashikawa-cho offers many attractive spots where you can feel nature’s breath. - Asahidake Visitor Center Opened in 2019, Asahidake Visitor Center provides information on the nature of Daisetsuzan National Park and guided tours. You can view a diorama of the spectacular viewpoints for mountain climbing. Seasonal exhibits, AR displays, and VR goggles allow a virtual experience of the Daisetsuzan mountains. - Daisetsu Asahidake Gensui Park This park is the source of Higashikawa-cho’s natural water, rich in calcium and minerals. You can freely collect spring water that Daisetsuzan’s snowmelt naturally filtered over centuries. - Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway The roughly 10-minute aerial ride from the Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway Sanroku Station at 1,100 meters to Sugatami Station at 1,600 meters offers grand panoramic views and seasonal scenery. From the ropeway, beginners can enjoy a trekking course of about one hour. The hike to Asahidake’s summit takes about two hours from here, and the peak rewards you with a 360-degree panorama including the Tokachi Mountain Range, MtAshibetsu, and Mt. Shokanbetsu. - Canmore Ski Village (Kitoushi Forest Park) This ski area is inside Kitoushi Forest Park, a 15-minute drive from Asahikawa Airport. With six courses, it caters to beginners through advanced skiers and is popular with many international visitors. Kitoushi Forest Park also has a campsite and cottages, so overnight stays are possible. - Lake Chubetsu At the foot of Daisetsuzan National Park, Lake Chubetsu offers canoeing experiences. You can enjoy seasonal vistas from fresh greenery to autumn colors and snow-capped scenes. Local guides support participants, so even first-timers can join with confidence. Higashikawa-cho’s population is about 8,400 people (as of June 2023). Thanks to strong child-rearing support and convenient access from the airport, the town has seen an increase in residents in recent years. Its rich natural environment makes it an ideal place for a stress-free life. The Higashikawa Town Immigration Experience lets people live here for three months up to one year. The town operates a municipal Japanese language school, and around 600 foreign residents live here, with strong support for international students. Higashikawa-cho is a place full of nature’s gifts. Aiming to be a photograph-friendly town with beautiful seasonal nature, it has declared itself the Photo Town, the photography culture capital. Higashikawa-cho offers abundant natural environments, hot springs, delicious food, and the warmth of local people. We will continue to bring you plenty of charming information about Higashikawa-cho in Hokkaido, so thank you for your support.