[Bicycle Diary] This morning, just as we opened the counter, two inbound guests came to rent bicycles. They wanted to ride around the Mikata Five Lakes, so we added them to the cycling tour originally planned for tourism association members. Everyone cycled slowly together, enjoying the nature. Partway through, there was a fuss about a tire losing air, and a nearby person kindly lent us a pump, which was a big help. They had already been staying in Japan for several nights and visiting many places, and they were very pleased with the Mikata Five Lakes, so it likely became a wonderful memory for them.

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.

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

Enjoy some time for yourself in Hokkaido! Sahoro Resort Hotel now offers mountain bike rentals and canoe experiences. Feel the fresh breeze as you cycle to Hokkaido-style landscapes near the hotel, such as Karikachi Kogen Park and Poppo no Michi, sights you can best discover by bike. You can also paddle a canoe on Shinnai Pond near Sahoro Bear Mountain. Originally developed by Indigenous people to approach game without being noticed, the canoe is a perfect way to relax and soak up Hokkaido’s great outdoors.

The Nagawacho Tourist Information Center inside Roadside Station Marumero No Eki Nagato offers e-bike rentals🚴 Called “Nagawa Cycle”! With an electric-assist e-bike, long distances and uphill roads become easy! Relax and enjoy a comfortable ride at your own pace amid pleasant natural surroundings 😊 〇 Reception hours 9:30 AM–2:00 PM 〇 Usage hours 9:30 AM–4:30 PM 〇 Rental location Nagawacho Tourist Information Center, 2424-19 Furumachi, Nagawacho, Chiisagata District, Nagano Prefecture 〇 Contact 0268-68-0006 Shinshu Nagawacho Tourism Association Nagawacho Sports Commission

Thank you for your patience. Bike rentals are now available in front of Shintoku Station. This season, due to popular demand, city bikes and mountain bikes are loaned free of charge. *Electric-assist bicycles are 1,000 yen per day* From Shintoku Station, please fully enjoy Hokkaido’s nature, cuisine, railway heritage, and a wide range of activities! If cycling feels too tough, we also offer rental cars.

■Kids Rental Bikes■ Monthly rentals for kids bikes are now available! For details, see the Rental Bicycle Rates (Monthly) below. Hourly rentals are also available! Available Rental Bikes 12-inch Kick Bike ■Recommended height: 85–105 cm ■Suitable age: 2–5 years ■Perfect for children touching a bicycle for the first time 18-inch Kids Bike ■Recommended height: 102–120 cm ■Suitable age: 4–7 years 20-inch Junior Bike ■Recommended height: 122–135 cm ■Suitable age: 6–10 years ■Equipped with a 7-speed drivetrain 24-inch Junior Bike ■Recommended height: 130–150 cm ■Suitable age: 8–12 years ■Equipped with an 8-speed drivetrain Child Carrier Bike ■Available for children aged 12 months and older ■Load capacity: 34 kg (maximum total load including luggage) ■One passenger only, up to 18 kg * When using this item, it must be paired with another bicycle. If you choose a monthly rental, please write “monthly rental: X months” in the comments section. Contact 12407 Kumashiro, Toyooka Village, Shimoina-gun, Nagano Prefecture 399-3202 Toyooka Tourism Association Toyooka Travel Time (General Incorporated Association) 0265-49-3395 (9:00–18:00)

From April 2, 2024, we will change the tourist information center’s opening hours as follows. • Opening: 9:30 (previously 9:00) • Closing: 18:00 (unchanged) Accordingly, the rental bicycles’ pickup time will change from 9:00 to 9:30. Thank you for your understanding. #Tomakomai #Rental Bicycles

◆Sport Bike Rental◆ Rent a sport bike with ease! Why not explore the nature-rich Toyooka Village by bicycle? We offer a wide range of models so even those who have never ridden a sport bike can easily try one. Guided courses are also available, so please inquire. ■Special campaign: enjoy both a rental bike and a harvest-picking experience!! If you book a rental bike together with either vegetable picking or peach picking, the rental fee is 50% off. Please check the detailed pages on the Toyooka Travel Time website for harvest-picking contents. Reservations are also possible from the website. When booking a rental bike, write in the “Comments” field that you also reserved a harvest-picking experience. Available rental bikes Cross Bike ■Recommended height: 150–180 cm (three sizes available) ■From the famous Italian brand Colnago ■Stylish design with a premium feel *Number of units available for reservation: 3 (first come, first served) Road Bike ■Recommended height: 155–175 cm (M size) ■Equipped with disc brakes ■Frame designed to reassure beginners *Number of units available for reservation: 1 (first come, first served) Mountain Bike ■Recommended height: 130–145 cm ■Wider tires provide stability on rough roads ■Equipped with disc brakes; sized for easy use by women as well *Number of units available for reservation: 2 (first come, first served) Cyclocross Bike ■Recommended height: 155–175 cm (M size) ■Authentic cyclocross bike ■Feel free to ask if you’d like a test ride *Number of units available for reservation: 1 (first come, first served) Gravel Bike ■Recommended height: 145–170 cm (S size) ■Wider tires provide stability on rough roads ■High-end Shimano components for gears and brakes *Number of units available for reservation: 1 (first come, first served) Reservations are accepted via the Toyooka Travel Time website or by phone. Bicycles may be unavailable due to prior reservations or event participation. Please check the Rental Bike Calendar for details. Contact 12407 Kumashiro, Toyooka Village, Shimoina-gun, Nagano Prefecture 399-3202 Toyooka Village Tourism Association, Toyooka Travel Time 0265-49-3395 (9:00–18:00)

Why not explore Tateyama by bicycle? Located on the southern Boso Peninsula, southern Boso traces about 120 km along the coastline. The inland routes offer plenty of elevation changes, making the scenery and sense of accomplishment ideal for experienced riders. For beginners, we recommend leisurely coastal rides where you can enjoy the scent of the sea and the views on a relaxed cycling route. The Tateyama City Tourist Association rents electric bikes that make hills easy, as well as sports bikes for long distances such as cross bikes and road bikes! We also offer bicycles with child seats and kids’ bikes, so we recommend these routes for families too! For more information, please contact the Tateyama City Tourist Association at 0470-22-2000!

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Video, nice to meet you! We are the Izena Island Tourism Association. Izenami Island lies north of Okinawa’s main island. The island’s coastline measures 17 kilometers, and you can drive around it in about 20 minutes. The village of Izena in Shimajiri District, Okinawa Prefecture, consists of the main island Izena and three uninhabited islets: Yagaji Island, Gushikawa Island, and Furuji (Orikami) Island. The population of Izena Island, Okinawa Prefecture, was 1,322 at the time of the 2020 survey. The island is also known as the birthplace of King Sho En, the first king of the Second Sho Dynasty of the Ryukyu Kingdom. In this first post, we introduce Izena Island and highlight its attractions, sightseeing spots, and activities. ■■Sightseeing spots on Izena Island, Okinawa Prefecture■■ ◆Futamigaura Coast (a dramatic view of two neighboring Gitara rocks) “Gitara” means a sheer rock or cliff. The prominent rocks on the sea and on land are called “umi Gitara” and “agi Gitara.” The approximately 1-kilometer-long Gitara Coast hosts many of these sea and land Gitara formations. With the pairing of sea Gitara and land Gitara and the pleasing arrangement of broadleaf trees, this coast has been selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Beaches. Also in the Gitara Coast area, Mattera Beach is a hidden gem with white sand and crystal-clear blue water. A campsite is available there as well. ◆Gitara Observatory Located in the Gitara Coast area, the Gitara Observatory is a popular lookout point. It offers a rare panoramic view of the two opposing sea and land Gitara formations. At night, the starry sky and town lights are a must-see. ◆Izena Castle Ruins The Izena Castle Ruins sit 70 meters above sea level in the southeast of Izena Island. They are said to have been built in the Gusuku period (11th–14th centuries) by Samekawa, the ancestor of King Sho En. The site rises in a pyramid shape with cliffs on three sides, and it was once called an impregnable fortress. From the summit of the Izena Castle Ruins you can enjoy spectacular ocean views. At the foot of the ruins stands Izena Tamaudun, which is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. ◆Izena Beach (Izena no Hama) On the island’s south side, this beach opens onto cobalt-blue waters. It’s a popular spot for swimming and camping, with toilets and showers available. ※From July 2023, some areas are closed due to coastal reinforcement work. ◆Shoen-ō Oniwa Park (Park commemorating King Sho En) This park opened in 1996 to commemorate the 580th anniversary of King Sho En’s birth. Visitors still come to Shoen-ō Oniwa Park frequently. The park includes Sunjaagar, the tidal spring said to have been used as King Sho En’s baby bath. It’s a sightseeing spot where you can feel the history of the Ryukyu kings. ◆Mekaru Family Residence The Mekaru family residence, designated as a nationally important cultural property, was the home of the direct line of the Mekaru family. Because it escaped war damage and was well preserved, it was rebuilt in 1906 (Meiji 39). ◆Samuree Path The Samuree Path is a 2-kilometer ancient road used from the 12th to 13th centuries as the only living route connecting the Izena settlement with the island’s southwest. In the Ryukyuan dialect, “Samuree” refers to warriors associated with the royal family. The path’s siliceous rock paving resembled the footprints of warriors, which is how the Samuree Path got its name. The Samuree Path also served as a pilgrimage route for the Mekaru family, relatives of the Sho clan, when performing the ancestral grave-visiting ceremony called the Kōji Shimeisai (shīmī). It links to Izena Tamaudun, the royal tomb. ◆Shirasagi Observatory Facing the sea, Shirasagi Observatory offers wide views of Gitara Coast (Futamigaura) and the ocean. It’s a popular viewpoint where you can also see the Izena Castle Ruins and Yagaji Island. ■■Activities on Izena Island, Okinawa Prefecture■■ ◆Bicycle rentals Because Izena Island is mostly flat, renting a bicycle is a great way to tour the sights. Enjoy the island as you ride through its tranquil scenery. ◆Diving and snorkeling With its clear waters, Izena Island is perfect for marine activities. You’ll find coral reefs, luminous caves, and plenty of underwater attractions. Beginners to advanced divers can all have a great time. ◆Sea fishing Izena Island has many good spots for catching black sea bream (kurodai). The Izena Island Tourism Association’s official website publishes an Izena Island fishing map, so please make use of it. ■■Gourmet information for Izena Island, Okinawa Prefecture■■ ◆Awamori Awamori, produced throughout the Ryukyu Islands, is also brewed on Izena Island. Please enjoy the mellow flavor of locally produced awamori. ◆Izena-style Okinawa soba You can enjoy Okinawa soba made with plenty of mozuku seaweed, or noodles made using rice grown on Izena Island—unique local takes on Okinawa soba. ■■Festivals and events on Izena Island, Okinawa Prefecture■■ ◆Izena 88 Triathlon This is Izena Island’s largest event, drawing about 600 athletes each year. Anyone aged 18 or older and in good health may participate regardless of nationality. The intense 7-hour competition is a sight to behold. ◆Unna Festival Unna is Izena Island’s traditional festival praying for a bountiful rice harvest. The event features dramatic displays such as tug-of-war with a giant rope, the snai match fought on carried boards, and Okinawan-style sumo tournaments. ■■Accommodation information for Izena Island, Okinawa Prefecture■■ Izena Island offers a variety of lodging, including hotels, minpaku guesthouses, and guesthouses. You can choose places that overlook the beach or stay in cozy, homey accommodations to suit your preference. ■■Traditions of Izena Island, Okinawa Prefecture■■ One of Izena Island’s charms is a tradition called Ihyajutee. Ihyajutee means “the people of Izena are compassionate.” Historically, islanders welcomed visitors from elsewhere without distinction and shared the bounty of their catches, a longstanding hospitality tradition. You can still experience Ihyajutee on the island today. Hosts may invite you into a garden where tea waits on the engawa veranda; you can sit, sip tea, listen to island stories, and enjoy slow, relaxed time—the unique hospitality of Izena Island. ■■Access information to Izena Island, Okinawa Prefecture■■ ◆By private car From Naha Airport, take the expressway and drive north for about two hours, then take a car ferry from Unten Port (Nakijin Village) for about one hour. ◆By taxi From Naha Airport, take the expressway and drive north for about two hours (fare: about 16,000 yen). From Nago city to Unten Port about 25 minutes (fare: about 2,400 yen and up). You can also use buses and express buses from Naha Airport. For details, please check the Izena Island Tourism Association official website. On Izena Island you’ll find rental shops for cars, bicycles, and mopeds. They are useful for sightseeing. We will continue sharing information about Izena Island, Okinawa Prefecture on Cool Japan Video, so thank you for your continued support!

Teshima, Kagawa Prefecture Passing through the island with a rental cycle, there is a famous Teshima Museum of Art below this, and there are almost no cars on the island, so the bicycle was 😀 comfortable

The rental bicycle service in front of Shintoku Station (city bikes, mountain bikes, and electric bicycles) has ended for this season. It is scheduled to resume before Golden Week next season. Enjoy Tokachi’s green landscapes by bicycle starting from Shintoku Town. #Hokkaido #Tokachi #Shintoku Town #Shintoku Tourism Association #Shintoku Station #rental bicycles #Poppo no Michi #Kyodogakusha #Shintoku Shrine #Shintoku Soba House #Bear Mountain #Karikachi Plateau Park

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Video! This is the Iwanai Tourism Association. We bring you travel and event information about Iwanai-cho, Hokkaido, facing the Sea of Japan. For our first post, we’ll introduce Iwanai-cho and its sightseeing spots! Iwanai-cho sits on Hokkaido’s west coast and is famous as the birthplace of asparagus. The town’s name is said to come from the Ainu words iwau meaning sulfur and nai meaning river. The population is 11,173 (as of the end of August, Reiwa 5). Because it faces the Sea of Japan, winters are severe, but it is relatively mild compared with other parts of Hokkaido. Average summer temperatures reach around 25°C, with highs near 32°C. Winter brings snowy scenery that is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Iwanai-cho pumps up deep seawater from the Sea of Japan and uses it in local industry. At the Iwanai Deep Sea Water Facility (the local industry support center) in town, residents and visitors can purchase deep seawater. This mineral-rich deep seawater is also excellent for cooking. Iwanai-cho offers stunning natural surroundings and historical sites where you can enjoy a wonderful time. Here are some of Iwanai-cho’s most attractive sightseeing spots! Along the Doudou Iwanai Port Line, Roadside Station Iwanai and the product information center Taramaru-kan provide tourist information about Iwanai-cho. Please use them as a reference for sightseeing. Local specialties such as tarako and kazunoko, plus taramaru goods, are also on sale. Kikoin Temple lets you experience Japanese culture and is the oldest temple in Iwanai-cho. Its wooden Buddha, entirely covered in gold leaf and standing 6.8 meters high, is designated Iwanai Town Tangible Cultural Property No. 1 and is truly impressive. Kikoin is about a 10-minute walk from Roadside Station Iwanai. Maruyama Observatory, at the foot of Mount Iwanai, is a recognized Japan Nightscape Heritage site and a must-see attraction. It’s beautiful by day, and the sunset and night views are especially recommended. You get a panoramic view over Iwanai-cho and the Kaitan Peninsula. Iwanai also hosts the Kida Kinjiro Museum of Art, dedicated to Nihonga painter Kinjiro Kida, who spent his life here. Enjoy Kida’s works arranged by period. The museum also stages exhibitions by other artists and concerts. Outdoor fans can enjoy hiking, camping, and many nature-rich spots. ■ Camping / Iwanai Auto Campsite Marine View This campsite features a vast lawn and offers cottages, RV sites, car sites, and free tent sites to suit different needs. The center house has showers, a shop, laundry, a library, and a meeting room. ■ Hiking / Mount Iwanai and Mt. Raiden Mount Iwanai, which continues from Iwanai Auto Campsite, rises to 1,086 m and is the Niseko range’s easternmost peak on the Sea of Japan side. Iwanai Onsen and nearby ski areas make good rest and recreation spots. Next to it stands Mt. Raiden at 1,211 m. In spring, alpine plants color the slopes, offering a delightful trail experience surrounded by nature. ■ Rental cycles / Kikoin Temple Exploring Iwanai-cho’s scenic spots by bicycle is recommended. Kikoin offers free rental bicycles. The rental desk is at the temple office, so please visit if you wish to borrow one. Iwanai-cho has a wide range of comfortable accommodations to meet travelers’ needs. Choose from hotels, guesthouses, or campsites to suit your trip to Iwanai. Various events and festivals are held in Iwanai-cho. The summer Iwanai Doto Festival fireworks display lights up Iwanai Port with 5,000 shells reflecting on the water for a spectacular show. Stage events and food trucks add to the gourmet offerings. (Contents from the August 2023 event) Finally, here is information on hometown tax donation gifts packed with Iwanai specialties. We offer a variety of local products as return gifts. Popular gifts include salted kazunoko, a special roast chicken, and the Kurashima Milk cheese and butter set! Tarako and nishin-meshi are also highly recommended. This time we shared part of the charm of Iwanai-cho, Hokkaido! Please visit Iwanai-cho and enjoy a special time. We look forward to your continued support!

Nice to meet you all! Kumejima Visitor's Bureau. Kumejima, Kume Island a remote island in Okinawa with a population of about 7,300, is home to beautiful nature and rich culture. The Kume Island is located 100 km west of the main island of Okinawa, and access to the Kumejima is about 30 minutes by plane from Naha Airport on the main island of Okinawa to Kumejima Airport 7 flights a day. Kumejima Airport from Haneda Airport takes about 3 hours and 35 minutes. In addition, the ferry can be taken from the main island of Okinawa "Naha Tomari Port", Via Tonaki Island, it takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes to Kume Island Kanegusuku Port or about 3 hours by direct Kume Island flight. There are 1~2 ferries per day, so please be careful when using them. There are four ways to get around the island: town buses, rental cars, taxis, and bicycle rentals. You can rent a car from the airport if you make a reservation, and please check the reception desk of each company in the airport arrival lobby. There are town buses that go around the island clockwise and counter-clockwise, the Airport Line, the Shimajiri Line, and the Kagiyama Line, and the Airport Line mainly operates according to the flight time, so you can easily use it. The Kume Island is about 23km and can be circled in about 3~4 hours by bicycle. The Kumejima has a number of fascinating sights. In this post, we will introduce some of them. The ruins of the Gusuku period scattered throughout Okinawa are called "Gusuku castle". Chinese ceramics are sometimes unearthed from Gusuku, and it is a spot where you can feel the remnants of the era when trade with overseas was thriving. Located at the top of Mt. Uejodake, "Uegusuku Castle Ruins" is the ruins of a castle built at the highest point in Gusuku. From the summit, you can see the entire Kume Island and it is also a superb viewing spot. "Gushikawa Castle Ruins" is a gusuku located on a limestone hill along the coast. It is also a nationally designated historic site, and Gusuku is characterized by a castle wall that mixes limestone and andesite. Next, we will introduce the beaches where you can enjoy the beautiful sea of Okinawa. "Ara Beach" is a hidden gem spot like a private beach surrounded by mountains. There is no doubt that you will be impressed by the beauty of the mysterious sunset as well as in the daytime! Shinri Beach, a beach with gentle waves, has an atoll right off the coast, and you can see the atoll up close at low tide. Since it is close to the airport, it is possible to watch airplanes take off and land. In addition, if you apply to the town environmental conservation division, you can use it as a campsite for free. "Mifuga Rock" on the shore of Yamatodomari is a tourist destination that means "female rock" in dialect. There are strangely shaped rocks created by the wind and tide, and it is a popular spot that is said to be a blessing for children. At Kumejima Tsumugi no Sato Yuimaru-kan, you can observe the dyeing techniques and works of traditional Kume Island pongee, and you can also enjoy weaving and dyeing Kume Island pongee. The Kume Island Museum is a museum where you can experience the history and culture of Kume Island, and holds permanent exhibitions of "Kume Island Nature and Culture" as well as special exhibitions. Next, we will introduce information on activities that you can enjoy in the Kume Island full of nature. The "Maine Beach", "Nakano Beach", and "Hatinu Beach" floating in the northeast of the Kume Island are collectively called "Hatenohama", and you can enjoy various marine activities! There are plenty of diving spots in the Kume Island for beginners to intermediate divers and above. Recommended for beginners, "Manta Station" is a popular manta ray encounter spot. You can enjoy Black Manta watching up close. In addition, the diving spot "Tombara", which is representative of the Kume Island with a huge rock height of about 50 m, has a maximum depth of 30 m, which is suitable for intermediate skiers and above, and the tide is strong, but it is also an attractive spot because there is a possibility of encountering schools of migratory fish, hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, etc. You can also explore the beautiful ocean world on a snorkeling tour. You can also enjoy the charm of Kumejima by strolling along the coastline in a "sea kayak" where you can enjoy the surrounding scenery while paddling on the sea. There is also a two-seater kayak, so you can enjoy it even with children. At the "Kume Island Horse Farm" where you can enjoy interacting with the horses, you can enjoy horse play that can only be experienced here! You can also use the "Umi Uma Asobi" to enter the sea while riding a horse, as well as your favorite horse play and a back menu on request. Yajiyagama Cave, the longest limestone cave in the Kume Island, which is about 800 meters long, offers year-round exploration programs. Depending on the program, you can explore the mysterious limestone cave in about 1 and a half ~ 2 hours. Don't miss the gourmet food of Kumejima! Kumejima is also famous as a shrimp farming pond. The quality is highly evaluated by the industry, and it is also certified as a "base production area" by Okinawa Prefecture. The season is December ~ May. In addition, sea grapes and awamori are also delicious specialties. It is also a perfect souvenir for Kume Island. Kumejima is a place where you can spend a rich time through contact with nature and cultural experiences. We will give you the best information to make your trip to Kumejima enjoyable. Thank you for your continued support!

"TokachigawaOnsen Burachari" This time I rode the nature walking course, one of the six available routes, by bicycle!! This route loops about 14 km and lets you fully enjoy Tokachi's natural scenery! The tourism association offers rental bicycles, so be sure to soak up the great outdoors!!

["Memuro Scattering" Guided Cycling Tour] This is a guide to cycling tours that you can experience in Tokachi "Memuro Town", Hokkaido, one of Japan's leading agricultural areas. In addition to the tour around the new Arashiyama, the Mo Mo Tour, and the Bisei Dam Exploration Tour, "Jersey cattle Fureai Walk" and "Memuro Horse Riding Tour" have also been added! We are grateful to local businesses for their cooperation. Get healthy by cycling and heal your mind and body by interacting with animals! In addition to those listed here, custom-made tours are also available, and only rental bicycles are available. If you are interested, please 🚲 make a reservation as soon as possible Details and application from 👇 the official website memurocycle.com/memuro_sansou/1730/ 🚲Hokkaido Memuro Cycletourism🚲 🚴 We are always accepting applications for the guided cycling tour "Memuro Scattering" where you can feel the agriculture, food, and nature of Tokachi, Hokkaido! memurocycle.com/memuro_sansou/1730/ 🏍 E-bike rental bicycles convenient for sightseeing in the Tokachi area of Hokkaido memurocycle.com/memuro_sansou/1714/

Hello! 🙋‍♀️ This is the Shintoku Tourism Association. Starting today, we have added four mountain bikes 🚵 to the Shin-Kuru rental bicycles 🚲 in front of Shintoku Station. These mountain bikes will make it easier and more comfortable to ride to destinations with unpaved paths, such as Poppo no Michi and Mt. Masuda, which were a bit difficult to access with the city bikes. Like the city bikes, they are available free of charge 🈚️, so please feel free to use them! 🙋‍♀️