Kawase Festival in Chichibu City Night view and fireworks in Chichibu City It is also said to be Gion at the summer festival of Chichibu Shrine. It is said to be a festival that contrasts with the Chichibu Night Festival in winter Photograph of the Dedication fireworks from about 3 km away It was a fireworks festival that lasted about 30 minutes 2024.7.19

On Saturday and Sunday, July 27th and 28th, the summer festival of Wakaichioji Shrine, one of the nation's Important Cultural Properties, will take place. The children's yabusame (mounted archery), a rare sight nationwide, will move hearts with its charming display of courage. A procession of children and the coordinated stage parade pulling will also be held. Please come and enjoy this historic festival.

Oyama Summer Jazz & Latin Friendship Concert “Oyama of Performing Arts and Culture” at the Noh Stage of the Oyama Afuri Shrine Office The Oyama Sekison Arts Festival’s "Oyama Jazz & Latin Friendship Concert," a beloved blend of tradition and innovation and a fusion of Japanese and Western sounds that many music fans look forward to each year, returns this year! Saturday, October 12, 2024 — Doors open 12:00, Concert begins 13:00 Venue: Noh Stage, Oyama Afuri Shrine Office Access: From Isehara Station north exit, Platform 4 (bound for the Oyama Cable Car) Get off at the "Shamukyoku Entrance" stop; the venue is immediately nearby. Admission: Adults ¥1,500 (advance) / ¥1,800 (door) Junior and senior high school students ¥500 — elementary school children and younger free Tickets are also on sale at Ekina Kururin House Isehara Station Tourist Information (0463-95-5333)! Inquiries Oyama Summer Jazz Concert Executive Committee 090-8441-5467 (Nakamura)

【Makuhari Beach Fireworks Festa 2024】 Launching 20,000 fireworks, one of the largest in Japan, Makuhari Beach Fireworks Festa 46th Chiba City fireworks festival Held in decided! The Chiba City Fireworks Festival is a popular summer tradition in Chiba City. One of the largest fireworks show in Japan will be held with music and traditional shakutama jade and the latest fireworks, along with marine fireworks that can only be seen in Makuhari in Chiba City. 1 The total number of fireworks is more than 20,000, one of the largest in Japan. 2 Approximately 3,000 Marine Fireworks will be launched, including the oversized aerial Niagara that fills the night sky from Makuhari Beach to the Ocean. 3 In addition to the Shakudama Jade that won the National Fireworks Competition Excellence Award, creative fireworks such as "Chiba-kun" and "Chihana-chan", and special effect fireworks with a pillar of fire flying in the shape of a fan will be launched. 4 In accordance with the wonderful message, we will launch the latest special art fireworks No. 10 Jade. 5 Provided by ZOZO! Approximately 10,000 fireworks very impressive Finale the Impression Grand with Marine Fireworks unique to this fireworks festival and golden brocade chrysanthemums. Please enjoy the special summer night "Makuhari Beach Fireworks Festa" where fireworks in full bloom color the seaside of Chiba. ・Held in Date & Time: Saturday, August 3, 2024 Reiwa 6 19:15~20:15 ・Venue: Makuhari Seaside Park Mihama 1, Mihama-ku, Chiba City, etc. ・Access: About a 15-minute walk from Kaihin Makuhari Station on the JR Keiyo Line ・Organizer: Chiba City Citizens' Fireworks Festival Executive Committee ・Inquiries: 050-5542-8600 9:00~20:00 / NTT Hello Dial Paid bleachers tickets are now on sale! For details of the Events, please search for "Makuhari Beach Fireworks Festa" and check the Official website.

Isehara Daijingu 48th Great Summer Festival This year’s theme is “Shomon Raifuku” (Good Fortune Comes to a Laughing Gate) A festival meant to make everyone smile Why not make the best memory of this summer! Saturday, July 27, 2024 2:40 PM–8:00 PM Sunday, July 28, 2024 3:00 PM–8:00 PM Venue: Isehara Daijingu 3-8-1 Isehara, Isehara, Kanagawa A 10-minute walk from Isehara Station North Exit along Chuo Street Contact: Isehara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Person in charge: Ito) Tel. 0463-95-3233 The Great Summer Festival, hosted by the Isehara Chamber of Commerce Youth Division Enjoy two days packed with food stalls and live performances!!

July 15 (Mon) Gion Shrine Summer Festival⛩️✨ On Monday, July 15, the Gion Shrine in the Kuraoka area held its summer annual festival, affectionately known as “Gion-san.”🎉 The day opened with the Morimaki ritual, followed by a ceremony, kagura performances, the sacred procession, and dance presentations—there was so much to enjoy.😊🎶 Although the weather brought rain at first, true to the spirit of “Gion-san,” a break in the clouds appeared by the time the sacred procession ended.☀️ Despite the rain, people from the neighborhood, across the prefecture and beyond, and even from overseas, came out early in the morning to enjoy the festival.🌍✨ It’s wonderful to see a community festival cherished by locals becoming known to and enjoyed by so many people.😌👏 We hope this tradition will continue to be passed on carefully into the future.

July 27 Sat Suijinbashi Noryo Fireworks Display A fireworks festival held with the Suijin Bridge over the Tenryu River as a pedestrian paradise. Why don't you experience the fireworks that go off up close while blowing in the river breeze? Date: Saturday, July 27 Time: 19:30~21:30 Place: Tenryu River Suijin Bridge Temporary parking lot: Iida General Sports Ground, Shimokuken Elementary School, Shimotoriwa Community Center Shimotoriwa Community Fire Center * Suishin Bridge will be a pedestrian paradise from 18 o'clock Contact: Machinaka Information Center Phone: 0265-22-4851

Nice to meet you all and welcome to COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! Ikeda Rural Tourism Corporation. Ikeda Town, Fukui Prefecture is a Town rich in nature located in the center of Fukui Prefecture, facing the Gifu Prefecture south of the Town. With a population of about 2,200 as of 2024, about 92% of the area of the Towns is occupied by forests. We will send out such Ikeda Town, Fukui Prefecture recommended Tourist Information, so thank you ◆ What is Ikeda Town, Fukui Prefecture? ◆ Ikeda Town, Fukui Prefecture is a scenic region surrounded by beautiful mountains and pristine rivers. It is Restrooms available in Fukui Prefecture and one of the most Heavy snowfall area. National Highway 417 "Kanmuri Pass Road", commonly known as "Crown Road", which shortens the travel distance between Ikeda Town, Fukui Prefecture and Gifu Prefecture Ibigawa by one hour, opened in November 2023. Access from Gifu Prefecture and Aichi Prefecture has become very convenient, and the exchange of people people visiting from outside the region has increased. Restrooms available also have a history of inheriting the culture of Japan's traditional performing arts "Noh play" from ancient times. ◆ Introduction of Ikeda Town, Fukui Prefecture Sightseeing spot ◆ ◇Tree Picnic Adventure Ikeda Tree Picnic Adventure Ikeda is one of the largest outdoor adventure parks in Japan, Representing Ikeda Town. You can enjoy Athletic activities such as Tree Trekking and Zipline in the mountain forests of the Shizuhara Area of Ikeda Town. The Mega Zipline is 510 Meters long and 60 Meters high, making it one of the tallest in Japan. ◇Michi no Oasis Four Season Terrace It is a tourist exchange facilities that just opened in April 2024. Processing foods made from agricultural products in Ikeda Town and specialty products made by woodworkers are lined up. Meals made with Agricultural products from Ikeda Town are also available. It can also be Use as a Tourist Information provision or as a resting place, making it a great stop during your journey. ◇Kazura Bridge It is a bridge over the Asuwa river valley made by weaving a plant called hardy kiwi with a total length of 44 meters and a height of 12 meters. Restrooms available that if you pledge your love on this bridge, you will be happy forever. ◇Ryusouga Falls It is the only waterfall in Fukui Prefecture designated as one of the "100 best waterfalls in One of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan". The Scene where the 60-Meters-high waterfall falls excitingly stream is a sight to behold, and many tourists Visit it. The stairs are Well maintained, so you can go down to the front of the waterfall. ◇Mount Kanmuri It is a mountain on the border between Ikeda Town, Fukui Prefecture and Gifu Prefecture, and was selected as one of the "Nature 100 Japan to be preserved in the 21st century". The Elevation is 1,256 Meters, but you can drive to around 1,000 Meters, and it takes about 2 hours to reach the summit from there, so even beginners can easily climb it. ◇Suwa Azuki Shrine The Main hall of the shrine is specified as National Important Cultural Property. At the back of the stairs of the mountain road Precincts the shrine, the "Inari Large cedar" rises one of the most Large cedar Hokuriku region, which is said to be 1,000 years old. ◇Keiryu Onsen Kakasou It is a spring quality that is soft on the skin and is said to be a spring water that promotes beautiful skin at a Onsen Ryokan inn in the center of the Shizuhara Plateau. You can enjoy not only staying at an inn but also a One Day Hot Spring. ◆ Ikeda Town, Fukui Prefecture Specialty Products ◆ ◇Rice Ikeda Town has a large temperature difference in one day, and we are promoting Nature-friendly agriculture by reducing the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers as much as possible. Ikeda Town is a Town with a reputation for delicious Rice in Rice production area and Fukui Prefecture. ◇ Grated daikon soba Soba noodles made with with Ikeda water is a specialties of Ikeda Town. Grated daikon soba made with spicy grated Grated radish and Salt Dashi has been loved by the Town residents for a long time, and can be tasted at "Soba Township Ikedaya", "Water Wheel" and "Ippuku" in the town. ◆ Introduction of Ikeda Town, Fukui Prefecture festival and Events ◇ Ikeda Food Cultural Festival It is a popular Events that is celebrating its 16th anniversary in 2023 and is Held in every year in early November. Approximately 60 stores will Stalls in various parts of the Ikeda Town, offering gourmet foods such as Soba buckwheat noodles, new Rice, sweetfish, vegetables, wild vegetables, and Ghibier, as well as woodworking experiences. Other events such as the "Bale-carrying Challenge" will be held. ◇Ikeda Grand Festival It is a festival held at Suwa Azuki Shrine and is held in for three days from June 9 to June 11 every year. Portable shrines Parade around the town, and "Children's Sumo" is also held in in which children of elementary school age and younger participate. ◇Traditional Japanese straw raincoat Dengaku no Umami It is a traditional event held every year on February 15 for about 800 years, and Japan's traditional "Noh" and "Dengaku" dances are Dedication at Kanjinja Shrine. ◆ Introducing Ikeda Town, Fukui Prefecture Sightseeing spot ◆ Ikeda Town, Fukui Prefecture is a fascinating Sightseeing spot with rich Nature and history. Enjoy a wonderful trip in Ikeda Town. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will send out Recommendations for Ikeda Town, Fukui Prefecture, Ikeda Town, so thank you!

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!

Photographed 7/13/24. It is a lantern of the Kawagoe Million Lantern Festival.

2024 Light Spectacle: Oyama Painted Lantern Festival Featured in the Michelin Green Guide Japan Don’t miss the premium night view from Ooyama and the enchanting display of various lanterns —a magical contest of lights!! Date and Time: Saturday, August 10 through Wednesday, August 14, 2024, from sunset until 8:30 PM (Find the yokai tofu-kozo! Stamp rally Prize exchange 4:00 PM–8:00 PM) Venue: Ooyama Shindo (Bypass), Isehara, Kanagawa Prefecture — around Ooyama Station bus stop through the Koma approach to Ooyama Afuri Shrine Lower Shrine From August 10 to August 18 during the festival period, the cable car will also operate for night views (until 8:30 PM) Simple handmade “milk carton lanterns” by local elementary and junior high students, works by local shops, ryokan, and members of the Isehara Art Association, and colorful illuminated umbrella lanterns create a “corridor of light”! Handmade painted lanterns by local residents and students from the College of Liberal Arts, Department of Arts at Tokai University line Ooyama Shindo (Bypass) and warmly light the approach to the shrine. Inquiries: Painted Lantern Committee 090-2322-6599

[Notice] Charity Festival Three days from July 13th to July 15th At the event plaza in front of Roadside Station Iwanai Reiwa 6 Noto Peninsula Earthquake A charity festival will be held! All proceeds from the Iwanai Lions Club booth will be donated in full to the affected area! Local restaurants will also set up support booths There will be events like a shaved-ice eating contest♪ Wondering where to go for the three-day holiday? Come visit Iwanai-cho! 😊 Organizer: Iwanai Lions Club Kei Truck Market ★July 14th, 9:00–11:00 Held on Ekimae-dori shopping street, closed to traffic for pedestrians The 28th Iwanai Kei Truck Market will take place♪ You’ll find preserved seafood snacks, vegetables🧅, and bread🍞 See the poster for more details. Organizer: Iwanai Kei Truck Market Executive Committee

Hello! This is the Chino Tourism Organization. Chino City, Nagano Prefecture is a city located almost in the center of Nagano Prefecture, surrounded by high mountains. It is a popular Sightseeing spot about 2 hours by Train from Tokyo. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will provide you with recommended Tourist Information in Chino City, Nagano Prefecture, which is also popular as a resort area. Fun! ◆What is Chino City, Nagano Prefecture? ◆ Chino City in Nagano Prefecture is a city with a population of about 55,000 people rich in rich in nature surrounded by the beautiful mountains of the Yatsugatake mountain ranges. It is the gateway to climbing Yatsugatake and is loved by many tourists as a Sightseeing spot where you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons in a resort area with popular highlands such as Tateshina, Lake Shirakaba, and Kurumayama. Chino City, Nagano Prefecture is roughly divided into four tourist areas. ・Tateshina area There are a Highlands with an average Elevation of over 1,000 Meters and is a popular summer resort. Nature is a popular resort area with a wide range of natural views. ・Lake Shirakaba / Kurumayama area From the summit of Kurumayama, a superb 360-degree view Unfolds as far as the eye can see. Winter sports such as skiing can be enjoyed in winter, and activities such as canoeing and paragliding can be enjoyed in summer. Accommodations for hotels and pensions are also recommended, and it is also recommended as a base for sightseeing in Chino City. ・Yatsugatake area It is one of the one of the most mountain areas in Japan that requires the mountain "Yatsugatake", which Representatives Japan. There are a variety of Mountain Climbing Route and, and each route can enjoy it in its own way. ・Town and Satoyama Area You can experience the culture of Chino City, such as the scenery of agricultural village, historic temples and shrines, and museums around the station. ◆History of Chino City, Nagano Prefecture◆ Chino City has a long history and has been an area where many people have lived since the Jomon period. In particular, many Ruins from the Jomon period have been discovered, and it is said that it was a densely populated area of One of the best in Japan at that time, and is known as "Jomon no Sato". In addition, in the Edo period, it developed as a post town Kanazawa Lodging on the Koshu-kaido. Even today, there are many places where you can feel its history and culture, and it is used as a Tourist Resource. ◆Introduction to Sightseeing spots in Chino City, Nagano Prefecture◆ ・Venus Line Venus Line is a Driving Route connecting Chino City in Nagano Prefecture and Matsumoto City in Nagano Prefecture, where you can see spectacular views of Yatsugatake and Mount Tateshina. With a total length of about 88 km, this road is visited by many drivers and riders from Spring to autumn to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Especially the refreshing air of the Highlands in summer and the Autumn leaves in autumn are spectacular. ・Lake Shirakaba Lake Shirakaba is a four-Kilometers lake surrounded by birch trees located along the Venus Line where you can enjoy Seasonal Nature. Activities can be enjoyed throughout the year, such as boating and canoeing in the summer and skiing and snowboarding in the winter. There are also resort facilities and Hot Spring Restrooms available on the Lakeside, where you can spend a relaxing time. ・Kurumayama Kurumayama is a beautiful mountain with an Elevation of 1,925 Meters, Representative of Chino City. From the top of the mountain, a 360-degree panorama Unfolds as far as the eye can see, and on a clear day, you can see Mt. Fuji and the Southern Alps. The Mountain trail can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced climbers alike, Course and is ideal for Hiking and trekking. ・Kurumayama Highlands Kurumayama Highlands is a Highlands resort with beautiful Flowers and spectacular scenery in all four seasons. Especially in summer, the clumps of Cluster of Nikkoukisuge are spectacular, and many Squid and photography enthusiasts Visit. In addition, Kurumayama Highlands ski resorts are popular as a Spot where you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in winter. ・Mishaka Pond Surrounded by forests, fascinates people with a mirror-like beautiful water surface visit. This pond is also the motif of Higashiyama Kaii's famous painting "Green Echo", and many tourists visit it in search of its mysterious scenery. ・Tateshina Highlands Tateshina Highlands is an area where the beauty of Nature and resort facilities are in harmony. Hiking courses where you can enjoy the nature of the Seasonal Nature are popular, and it is especially crowded with tourists during the Fresh greenery in Spring and the Autumn leaves season in autumn. The Tateshina Hot Spring Village in Tateshina Highlands is dotted with many Hot Spring facilities to soothe the fatigue of the trip. ・Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway The Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway is a large 100-seater ropeway that spans between Kita-Yokodake and Mt. Shimagare at the northern end of Yatsugatake. Visit many tourists throughout the year because you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons. From the top of the ropeway, you can enjoy climbing that suits your travel plan, such as climbing for 2 days and 1 night Use One day hiking and mountain huts. ・Lake Tateshina Lake Tateshina is a beautiful lake surrounded by tranquil forests. Promenade is maintained along the Lakeside for about 1.5 kilometers, where you can enjoy a walk or a picnic. Fishing and boating are also popular, and you can spend a relaxing time in nature. ・ Rural life experience We also Restrooms available a sightseeing plan where you can experience country life at the home of a farmer Mr./Ms.. You can experience the life of Chino City, such as harvesting Highland vegetables, pickling Pickled nozawana, and making miso. It is also very popular with foreign tourists. ◆Festivals and Events in Chino City, Nagano Prefecture◆ ・Lake Shirakaba Summer Festival Fireworks Display Lake Shirakaba Summer Festival Fireworks Display is a festival Held in every summer and is visited by many tourists. About 1,500 fireworks launched from Lake Shirakaba color the night sky of Chino City. ・Chino Donban Chino Donban is a traditional festival in Chino City. Centered on the street from the east exit of Chino Station to the city hall, you can enjoy portable shrine and drum performances and dances. ・Onbashira Festival Onbashira Festival is a traditional Festival that Representative Nagano Prefecture once every seven years, and its official name is "Shikinen Zoei Mihashira Grand Festival". One of the highlights of this festival, "Falling of the Tree," is a Gobashira with a large number of Ujiko shrine parishioners on a steep slope of nearly 30 degrees. ◆Introducing Tourist Information of Chino City, Nagano Prefecture◆ Chino City in Nagano Prefecture is an attractive sightseeing spot surrounded by abundant nature. Chino City, with its beautiful seasonal scenery and outdoor activities, is an ideal sightseeing spot for Families and couples. Please visit Chino City and experience its charm!

Held in the Nakano Gion Festival to pass on the traditional culture of the region and create a lively town. ◆Date: July 13 Sat, 14 Sun ◆Location: Nakano City ◆ Main events during the period ◎ 13th Sat ・Emperor's Portable Shrine March, Higashi Towns Children's Portable Shrine March 9:10~13:00 in Higashi Towns Ward ・Matsukawa Children's Mikoshi 10:00~12:00 Matsukawa Ward ・NakaTowns Children's Portable Shrine Parade 14:00~16:30 NakaTowns ・Nishi Towns Daishi, Nishi Towns Children's Portable Shrine March 17:30~20:00 Nishi Towns NakaTowns Gion stall performance 　Naka Town Ward procession 14:00~ 　Nakano Jinya-mae Square Park 17:30~ Matsukawa Kawasaki Dance Acting 1st Matsukawa Ward Civic Hall Parking Lot 14:30~14:40 Part 2 FamilyMart Nakano Ippongi Park South Store Parking Lot 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 14:30～14:40 3rd Nakano Environmental Service Parking Lot 15:10~15:20 4th Nakano Jinya-mae Square Park 17:15~17:30 5th Higashi Towns Maruya Confectionery Parking Lot 18:00~18:10 Session 6 NakaTowns Central Square Park 18:30~18:40 Higashiyoshida Yume Drum Performance Nakano Jinya-mae Square Park 16:15~16:40 Shinshu Nakano's Old Banashi "Kurohime and the Black Dragon" picture-story show 16:45~16:55 Performance of the song "Kurohime" by Kurohime welcome drum and Kurohimekai Nakano Jinya-mae Square Park 18:00~19:00 Ritual　 Evening Festival Nakano Jinya-mae Square Park Temporary Palace 19:50 Insect feeding event Ignition around 20:15 ◎ 14th Sun Horseback riding events 　Nakano Jinya-mae Square Park 10:50 Departure 4 horses march to 4 towns　　 　　Afternoon procession in each ward 【Inquiry】 Shinshu Nakano Chamber of Commerce and Industry TEL 0269-22-2191

Nice to meet you all and welcome to COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! It is an industry and tourism public corporation in Shinshu Nakano Industry & Tourism Public Corporation.. Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture is a city located in the northern part of Shinshu Nagano Prefecture, with a population of about 40,000 as of 2024. Thereare in Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture, is a spot rich in beautiful nature scenery and historical sights, and is popular with many tourists. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also known for their rich agricultural products. ■■■Access to Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture ◇ Tokyo - Access to Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture Automobile access: Nakano City is about 3 hours and 30 minutes away by car from Tokyo. The most common route is to take the Metropolitan Expressway Use Kan-etsu Expressway north, go via the Joshinetsu Automobile Expressway Shinshu and get off at the Nakano IC. Access by train: Access by train from Tokyo to Nakano City is best Used by Shinkansen. From Tokyo Station, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano Station, then transfer to Nagano Electric Railway and arrive at Shinshu Nakano Station in about 30 minutes. The total journey time is about 1 hour and 50 minutes. ■■■Popular Sightseeing spots in Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture ◇Ippongi Park Rose Park Ippongi Park is one of the Sightseeing spots Representative of Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture, and is famous for its beautiful roses in full bloom. Especially from Spring to early summer, 3,000 shares of about 850 species are in Best time to visit, and the entire park is enveloped in a gorgeous atmosphere. Events such as the "Nakano Rose Festival" are also Held in, and many tourists visit. ◇Reikanji Temple Musho Daishi Ancestral Hall Reikanji Temple is a historical Temple built in the Edo period and is considered one of the One of the three most sacred places in Japan. The Musho Daishi Ancestral Hall in front of the approach to the temple was built in 1959 to commemorate the 600th anniversary of Musou Taishi. Red and white azalea flowers bloom in May, delighting Worshippers. ◇Jorakuji Temple The current Main Hall was built in 1819, and the transom with eight carved scenes is designated as a tangible cultural property of Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture. In the arhat hall with a red roof, which stands out from a distance, 500 arhats are enshrinement in Hina-dan. ◇Higashiyama Park Higashiyama Park, which is about a 20-minute walk from the city center of Nakano City, is popular among citizens as a famous place for cherry blossoms. Spot with a panoramic view of Nakano City, it is ideal for walking and picnics. ◇Takayashiro, Viewing Road The Takayashiro, Viewing Road offers beautiful views of the Chikuma River, Five Mountains of Northern Shinshu and Nakano City. Visit Visit especially in autumn because the autumn leaves are beautiful. ◇Tatsuyuki Tatsuno Memorial Hall / Hometown Bridge It is a memorial hall that conveys the achievements of Tatsuyuki Tatsuno, who created famous songs such as "Hometown". The hometown Bridge is located near the memorial hall, There is a there is a "hometown" melody Panel installed on the parapet, so you can cross the bridge while listening to the melody. ◇Clay Doll Painting Experience You can experience painting clay doll paintings that have been loved by the locals for a long time as local toys in Nakano City at the Japanese Clay Doll Museum. You can color your favorite dolls such as puppies, sitting rabbits, moon rabbits, and beckoning cats. beckoning cat is also popular with foreign tourists visiting Japan as There are "Lucky Cat". ■■■Events and Festivals in Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture ◇Nakano Gion Festival Nakano Gion Festival is a traditional Festival that is Held in every July. It is a historic festival that originated from a horse-riding event held about 500 years ago. portable shrine and the Great Lion Procession procession the city, allowing locals and tourists alike to come together for fun. There are many stalls and Stalls lined up, and a lively atmosphere is Unfolds. ◇Nakano Shon Shon Festival On the main street of Nakano City, you can enjoy dancing by dancers and participants dressed in various costumes. It is a festival where you can jump in and participate. ■■■Specialty products of Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture ◇ Enokitake Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture is famous as a production area for enokitake mushrooms. Fresh Naenokitake mushrooms are widely used not only in Local cuisine but also throughout the country. ◇ Apples Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture is also known as a production area of apples, which boasts one of the highest production volumes in Japan, and produces fragrant and flavorful apples. Local farmers painstakingly grow apples that are highly regarded nationwide. ■■■Tourist Information of Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture! Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture is a Mr./Ms. Sightseeing spot with beautiful Nature, rich history, and fascinating Sightseeing spot and events. Please visit Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture and have a wonderful experience that will remain in your memory. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will send out Recommendations for Nakano City, so thank you!

Hiraide Ruins The nationally designated Hiraide Ruins rank among Japan’s three major archaeological sites. Situated about 2 kilometers southwest of JR Chuo Main Line Shiojiri Station, they lie on Kikyogahara, a vast stretch of vineyards. The site extends in a band along the Shibukawa, which flows from Hirade Spring, spanning about one kilometer east to west and 300 meters north to south. Major excavations that began in 1950 revealed that people lived at Hiraide from the Jomon period through the Heian period. Numerous dwelling remains and associated artifacts were unearthed. These abundant finds became fundamental sources for studying prehistoric and ancient cultures in the region, and the site received National Historic Site status in 1952. Excavations have continued since then, and to date more than 290 dwelling and building remains have been discovered. ◇Hiraide Museum The museum displays clay figures, pottery, stone tools, ironware and other items excavated from the Hiraide Ruins, along with artifacts from other sites in the city. Highlights include the prefectural treasures such as the green-glazed water jar, the Shibamiya Bronze Bell, the Shobuzawa Gatou, and distinctive Jomon pottery of Shinshu. ◇Historic Park Around the museum is the Hirade Kofun Group, three burial mounds believed to belong to powerful local leaders who governed the Hiraide settlement. You can also see a pit-dwelling reconstructed for the first time nationwide as an ancient structure. ◇Hiraide Ruins Park Hiraide Ruins Park reconstructs villages from the Jomon, Kofun and Heian periods under the theme "Five thousand years of Hiraide." The park features 15 reconstructed dwellings and buildings that visitors can enter. Each dwelling recreates life in the Jomon, Yayoi and Heian periods, allowing visitors to experience firsthand changes in house structure and materials and to feel how people’s lives transformed across the ages. ◇Guidance Building The Guidance Building offers a guidance corner, rest area and an observation room, creating a relaxed space where visitors can learn about the Hiraide Ruins. Hands-on activities related to prehistory and ancient times, such as fire starting and making magatama (curved beads), are held here and are popular with local children. On the second floor, an observation room provides a panoramic view of the ruins park. ◇Basic Information <Historic Park / Hiraide Museum> Address: 1011-3 Soga, Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture Phone: 0263-52-1022 Hours: 9:00–17:00 (last admission 16:30) Closed: Mondays, the day after public holidays, and during the New Year holidays (December 29–January 3) Parking: Cars: 50 spaces / Large buses: 10 spaces (free) Admission (※): General: 300 yen / Elementary and junior high school students: free / Groups of 20 or more: 240 yen per person ※From April 1, 2026: General: 400 yen / Elementary and junior high school students: free / Groups of 20 or more: 320 yen per person Access: 15-minute walk from JR Shiojiri Station / Immediately at Community Development Bus Soga Line Hirade Museum bus stop <Ruins Park / Guidance Building> Address: 388-2 Soga, Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture Phone: 0263-52-3301 Hours: 9:00–17:00 Closed: Mondays, the day after public holidays, and during the New Year holidays (December 29–January 3) Parking: Available (free) Reception hours: 9:00–11:00 and 13:00–15:30 Admission: Free (materials fees may apply for certain experiences) Access: 15-minute walk from JR Shiojiri Station or 6 minutes from Community Development Bus Soga Line Hirade Tsumesho-mae Bus Stop

Summer Traditions Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine with the sound of wind chimes Photo taken on July 6, 2024

✻ Notice [Diffusion hope] ✻ Held in of festivals【Kanatsu Festival】 Saturday, July 13, 2024 ~ July 15, 2024 National Holiday Honjin Ornament Exhibition ✻ July 13 Sat Eve Festival Location: Kanazu Shrine Precincts 18:00~20:30 ✻July 14 Tue Main Festival festival float procession 3 units 📍 Closing at Kanazu Shrine 12:00 Stalls is also Stalls.

July 7 (Sunday) Sunset Village Kids Festa – Tanabata Festival– On Tanabata day, July 7, the Sunset Village Creation Promotion Council and the Childcare Support Center teamed up to hold the Sunset Village Kids Festa – Tanabata Festival – in the Wind Hall at Gokase Winery👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🎋✨ True to the Wind Hall’s name, the wind blew strongly, but the sky was perfectly clear and blazing sunny—a day with no better weather🥵☀️ That didn’t bother anyone: the children were full of energy💪✨ A water play area was set up at the venue! Kids blasted water pistols in the pool, sent all kinds of bubbles into the air, and played with water-balloon yo-yos… the fun continued from morning until the event ended, always packed and lively🔫👏 On stage, children moved their bodies to music in a rhythmics session, sang together at a mini concert, and listened intently to picture-book readings and a panel theater. A special collaboration with the local wind ensemble, G Music Band, brought an electrifying hula dance that thrilled the crowd🥳🙌 There were also hands-on experiences with wind and percussion instruments and the koto, and the children were ecstatic to touch live instruments they rarely get to try🎺🎶 Vendors lined up, including BLANCO Ice Cream from nearby Yamatomachi, offering drinks and treats for kids and adults and fun lottery games. The place was bustling🌭🥤🍧 Upstairs in the cool Wine Hall, Midori Kakuda’s photo exhibition and photo session were held, capturing many lovely and new scenes of Gokase in beautiful shots📸✨ On the same floor, a nursing room and a rest area provided considerate support for visitors with small children🍼💕 In the afternoon, everyone wrote wishes on tanzaku and tied them to the bamboo. The once bare bamboo became brightly decorated, creating a very atmospheric scene😌 The children’s heartfelt, unique wishes felt cleansing to the heart🥹✨ The venue was arranged with parents’ comfort in mind, and the children, who had played to their hearts’ content and ended up soaked from head to toe, left wearing satisfied smiles😊🥰👏 Places and opportunities where children can laugh and play freely are precious😳✨ It was a perfect day, and I hope many more wonderful events like this will be held in the future👍👍👍

July 7th–July 9th Iwanai Shrine Annual Festival Now Underway The Iwanai Shrine Annual Festival, fondly known locally as the Iwanai Festival, is a beloved community celebration. The schedule runs with the Eve Festival on the 7th, the Main Festival on the 8th, and the Return Festival on the 9th; portable shrine processions take place on the 8th and 9th. For the rites honoring Sarutahiko no Mikoto and Uzume no Mikoto, attendants are chosen from the cohort facing their critical 42nd year. On the 9th, the national highway is closed to traffic so two portable shrines can charge up “Jinja-zaka” in one breathtaking dash. The town-designated intangible folk cultural asset “Akasaka Yatsu” is another festival highlight. For detailed schedules and information, please check the Iwanai Shrine website. Don’t miss this once-a-year opportunity!

Hello! This is the Fukui Prefecture Tourism Federation. Fukui Prefecture has become one of the most talked-about regions now that the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension has made access from Tokyo much easier. We will share information about Fukui’s sightseeing spots, gourmet food, and more. Please look forward to it! ◆About Fukui Prefecture Fukui Prefecture faces the Sea of Japan in the Chubu region. On March 16, 2024, the Hokuriku Shinkansen was extended between Kanazawa and Tsuruga, reducing the fastest travel time from Tokyo to 2 hours and 51 minutes. About 80 percent of Japan’s dinosaur fossils have been excavated in Fukui Prefecture, earning it the nickname “Dinosaur Kingdom” and making it home to many dinosaur-related facilities. Facing the Sea of Japan, Fukui is one of Japan’s premier fishing grounds, where you can enjoy fresh seafood. Especially Echizen crab, Wakasa fugu (pufferfish), and Echizen Flounder are high-quality specialties you can only taste here. Fukui is also one of the world’s leading eyewear production centers, manufacturing 95 percent of Japan’s frames. ◆Popular sightseeing spots in Fukui Prefecture Fukui is broadly divided into four areas: ◇Awara, Sakai, and Fukui City area ◇Eiheiji and Okuetsu area ◇Wakasaji area ◇Tannan area Below are recommended spots in each area. ◇Awara, Sakai, and Fukui City area ・Tojinbo Tojinbo, a cliff-lined coastline stretching about one kilometer, is often used for dramatic climaxes in suspense dramas. It is recognized as one of the world’s three great scenic wonders, a National Natural Monument, one of Japan’s 100 geological sites, and one of Japan’s 100 best sunsets. In recent years it has become popular as a spot to see the “green flash,” when the sun briefly glows green as it sets into the Sea of Japan. ・Fukui Castle Ruins The castle ruins were built in 1606 by Hideyasu Yuki, the second son of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Stone walls remain, and the site is a popular cherry-blossom viewing spot. ◇Eiheiji and Okuetsu area ・Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum One of the world’s three great dinosaur museums, it displays about 50 dinosaur skeletons along with fossils, specimens, dioramas, and reconstructed models. It is a spot that delights both children and adults. ・Daihonzan Eiheiji A Zen training monastery founded by Zen Master Dogen, it still hosts many practicing monks. ◇Wakasaji area ・Mizushima A small uninhabited island off the tip of the Tsuruga Peninsula, Mizushima is reachable by a daily ferry that operates during the swimming season. Its beauty has earned it the nickname “Hawaii of the Hokuriku region.” ・Mikata Five Lakes The five lakes—Lake Mikata, Lake Suigetsu, Lake Suga, Lake Kugushi, and Lake Hiruga—span Mihama Town and Wakasacho in Fukui Prefecture. They are also called the “five colored lakes” because each has a different shade of blue. ◇Tannan area ・Murasaki Shikibu Park Named for the Heian-period author Murasaki Shikibu, who spent time in Takefu City, the park features a gilded statue of Murasaki Shikibu wearing a twelve-layered kimono. ・Kazurabashi (Vine Bridge) A rare vine suspension bridge measuring 44 meters long. A legend says couples who vow their love on the bridge will find eternal happiness. ◆For touring Fukui Prefecture, we recommend the Happibus To visit popular spots in Fukui Prefecture, we recommend Happibus. Happibus offers scheduled sightseeing bus tours that take you comfortably and safely to attractive attractions scattered across the prefecture. Choose from seasonal specialty routes or courses that let you compare Fukui’s delicacies. Tours operate for solo travelers, and admission fees are included in the price. A guide accompanies the tour so you can fully enjoy your trip in Fukui. For details, please visit the Happibus website. ◆Fukui’s representative festivals ◇Mikuni Festival Held every May, this historic festival dates back to the Edo period. As one of the three major festivals of the Hokuriku region, its procession of float-mounted warrior dolls standing 6.5 meters tall parades through town in a powerful display. ◇Toro Nagashi and Grand Fireworks Festival Held every August in Tsuruga City, this festival fills the sea with colorful floating lanterns against the backdrop of Kehi no Matsubara, while about 8,000 fireworks light up the night sky above the ocean. ◇Tsuruga Festival, Kehi Jingu Shrine Annual Festival Held every September in Tsuruga City, this festival is famous as the “Long Festival of Kehi” because it spans 14 days. ◆Sharing recommended information about Fukui Prefecture We introduced Fukui Prefecture’s seasonal natural beauty, historic sites, delicious food, and traditional culture. Fukui has ranked first overall five times in a row in the “Happiness Ranking of All 47 Prefectures.” We will continue to introduce Fukui’s highlights on Cool Japan Video. Thank you for your support!

[July 2024 Kiso Festival] Kiso will be the festival Information of July, which will be held in various places. Starting with the famous Mikoshi portable shrine roll in Fukushima, Kiso Town, you can enjoy colorful festivals in various places. Please come and visit us! ♦July 12 Fri, 13 Sat Yabuhara Shrine Annual Grand Festival Kiso Village Yabuhara A powerful festival in which two lions, male and female, perform a dance of two lions, male and female, on the stalls of making << total Cypress trees. >> ♦July 13 Sat, 14 Sun Higashiyama Shrine Summer Annual Grand Festival Nagiso Town Midono <portable shrine parade carrying a portable shrine while singing a song. > ♦July 14 Sun, 15 Mon Susao Shrine Festival Okuwa Village Nojiri << they carry their portable shrine and Parade Town, and at the end, they are led by the flame of torches to enter the mountain. >> ♦July 22 Tue, 23 Wed Mizunashi Shrine Festival Mikoshi portable shrine roll Kiso Town Fukushima << "Sosuke! Kiso's strange festival that excitingly sprees Mikoshi horizontally and vertically with a shout. fireworks will also Gari on the 22nd. >> ♦July 23 Wed, 24 Thu Wachipo Shrine Summer Annual Grand Festival Tsumago juku <<, with a shout of "goodbye to Gemo", the portable shrine parade the Shukuba. >> ♦July 26 Fri, 27 Sat Deer Shrine Festival Okuwa Village Suhara <<, the fierce pushing of the portable shrine with the shout of "Let's give it to you, let's put it back" is a sight to behold. >> ♦July 27 Sat Cypress trees summer festival Agematsu town << in preparation for next year's Sacred Tree Festival, we will hold a fireworks festival with Mikihiki. >> ♦July 27 Sat, 28 Sun Ontake Shrine Annual Grand Festival Otaki village << "Three Swords Dance" and dances by priestesses are Dedication. >> Information about the Festival is also Publication on the Home Page "Kiso Valley Torippu"!

Wakaichioji Shrine Summer Purification Ritual and Mantō Festival🏮 Today, June 30 and July 1, the Summer Purification Ritual and Mantō Festival took place at Wakaichioji Shrine. The summer purification ritual cleanses the impurities accumulated over the past six months and prays for safety in the coming six months. Lanterns donated by local businesses lit up, creating a magical atmosphere in the shrine grounds at night🏮

This is the Kazaguruma of the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine Direct Meeting. When I Prayer on July 1st, I was still Restrooms available.

Outdoor Festival will be Held in in Nayoro City, Hokkaido! "Nayoro's Outdoor Festival" August 3 Sat at Furenbokodai Nature Park, Nayoro City's first outdoor festival has been held in! Outdoor guides living in Nayoro gathered, Activities such as still water canoeing, fishing, and exploring nature can be enjoyed in one day! In addition, gourmet food such as pizza making experience, Tentipi's super-large tent STRATUS72 will also appear! Outdoor writer Hobo Jun will also appear! Event details will be announced as they become available. For details, search for "Nayoro Sightseeing & Town Planning Association"! Those who want to keep memories of summer Vacation, those who want to start camping and the outdoors, and those who want to enjoy the outdoors more than now、、、 We look forward to seeing you there!

Shinko Festival of the Gion Festival. Hoyt while carrying a Mikoshi portable shrine! Hoyt!! Scene of shouting was like a symbol of summer in Kyoto.

Inside the venue of the Gion Festival Gari smoke from the stalls rises into the sky The smoke is illuminated by the lights. It was like Yamaboko was standing on the stage of Gion. Combined with the overflowing enthusiasm of people An indescribable live feeling is created The whole venue became a fantastic view.

Did you know Shiojiri is one of Japan’s top wine regions? Japan has about 400 to 500 wineries, and roughly 80 of them are in Nagano Prefecture. Shiojiri City has the most wineries in the prefecture, with 15 operating producers. Some of these wineries have operated for more than a century since the Meiji era, while others are brand new, founded in the Reiwa era; each of the 15 crafts wines with its own distinct character. There is even a high school in Shiojiri that makes wine, giving students the chance to learn winemaking while still in school. What makes the wine industry so vibrant here is the ideal growing environment: at about 700 meters elevation the large day–night temperature swings and long hours of sunlight, combined with gravelly and volcanic-ash soils, create perfect conditions for growing grapes. High-quality grapes from this land produce high-quality wines. Among the wines made in Shiojiri, merlot earns especially high praise. In 1989 a merlot from the area won a major gold award at a prestigious international competition. The annual Shiojiri Winery Festa draws visitors from across Japan who sample wines from all over Shiojiri, often drinking to their heart’s content. Please try Shiojiri wine.

[Nakasendo Narai-juku] Located beneath Torii Pass — one of the Nakasendo’s most notorious difficult stretches — Narai was known as 'Narai Senken' ('a thousand houses of Narai') and was the most prosperous post town among the eleven post towns of Kiso. The townscape has been designated by the national government as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, and it still strongly retains the atmosphere of the past. The roughly 1‑km stretch of buildings along the Narai River forms the longest post‑town streetscape in Japan. More than a preserved site, Narai‑juku’s charm lies in the fact that people still live there today. This award‑winning post town was also used as the setting for the 2011 NHK morning drama 'Ohisama'. As a place where visitors can experience Japan's unspoiled beauty, it attracts many people from Japan and abroad every year, who are captivated by this historic post town. ◇Basic Information ・ Parking: Please use the nearest Roadside Station 'Kiso-no-Ohashi' parking lot (free), or the Gonbei Parking Lot (paid). ・Inquiries: Narai-juku Tourist Information Center TEL 0264-34-3160

Hello! This is the Wakasa Mihama Tourism Association. We will share recommended sightseeing information about Mihama Town, Mikata-gun, Fukui Prefecture on Cool Japan Video, and we appreciate your support! ◆What is Mihama Town, Fukui Prefecture?◆ Mihama Town in Fukui Prefecture faces the Sea of Japan and, true to its name, boasts beautiful beaches. The population is about 8,600 people (as of 2024). The town’s grand natural scenery and many local specialties found only in Mihama attract visiting tourists. With the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen to neighboring Tsuruga City, access from the Kanto region has become very smooth. ◆The appeal of Mikata Five Lakes, Mihama Town’s top sightseeing spot◆ The most popular sightseeing spot in Mihama Town is Mikata Five Lakes, a wetland registered under the Ramsar Convention and recognized as part of the Japan Agricultural Heritage. “Mikata Five Lakes” is the collective name for five lakes spanning Mihama Town and Wakasa Town in Fukui Prefecture. Lake Kugushi Lake Hiruga Lake Mikata Lake Suigetsu Lake Suga The Mihama Town Lake Center is recommended as a base for fully enjoying Mikata Five Lakes tourism. The facility includes a stylish cafe, food outlets such as hot dogs made with venison franks, and an outdoor terrace where you can relax while gazing at the lakes. For those who want to enjoy Mikata Five Lakes from the water, sightseeing boats are recommended. These lake vessels are battery-powered sightseeing boats driven by renewable energy stored from solar panels. They are the first in Japan to operate solely on renewable energy. You can enjoy a guided round-trip cruise of about 50 minutes. Mihama Station rental bicycles are recommended for those who want to enjoy the lakeshore and Mikata Five Lakes. The full five-lake loop, called Goko-ichu, is a cycling course of about 33 kilometers that takes roughly four hours to complete. Feel the breeze of Mikata Five Lakes and savor the different scenery each lake offers. For those who want to enjoy Mikata Five Lakes from the sky, the Mikata Goko Rainbow Line offers spectacular aerial views of all five lakes. This roughly 11-kilometer drive course leads to Rainbow Line Summit Park, which you can reach by lift or cable car. At the summit you can enjoy five different sky terraces featuring panoramic 360-degree views of Mikata Five Lakes and the Sea of Japan, including footbaths and sofa terraces, and you can enjoy sweets and special lunch boxes. You can fully savor Mikata Five Lakes from different perspectives: from the sky (Rainbow Line), from the lake surface (battery-powered sightseeing boat), and around the lakes (cycling)! ◆Introduction to Mihama Town’s sightseeing spots◆ • Shoishohama Beach Mihama Town has seven beaches, and one of the most popular is Shoishohama Beach, selected as one of Japan’s 88 Best Beaches. Its shoreline of fine, shining white sand and emerald-green shallow waters make it a beautiful beach, attracting more than 150,000 beachgoers each year. • Wakasa Kuniyoshi Castle History Museum This museum lets you learn about the mountain fortress of the Sengoku period, Kuniyoshi Castle Ruins, and the castle town that once surrounded it. A terrain model around Kuniyoshi Castle Ruins introduces the historical townscape. • Roadside Station Wakasa Mihama Hamabiyori Opened in 2023, this roadside station is packed with fresh vegetables, fruits, and local gourmet items from Mihama Town in Fukui Prefecture that can only be enjoyed here. It also serves as a tourist information center and a rest stop, making it ideal for a break during your travels. ◆Local specialties of Mihama Town, Fukui Prefecture◆ • Heshiko Heshiko is a traditional fermented local food of Fukui, made by pickling mackerel in rice bran for one year. Its rich flavor is beloved at local dining tables and makes an excellent souvenir. • Seafood Yellowtail, crab, and fugu dishes are recommended winter specialties of Mihama Town. Freshly landed seafood delights many visitors’ palates. Mihama Town has many ryokan and minshuku accommodations where you can enjoy these seasonal fresh seafood for dinner. ◆Events in Mihama Town, Fukui Prefecture◆ • Hinata Underwater Tug-of-War Held every January, the underwater tug-of-war is a nationally selected Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property with a history of nearly 400 years. A massive rope 30 cm thick and 40 meters long is stretched across the canal connecting Lake Hiruga and the Sea of Japan. Men wearing headbands pull the rope with great force, praying for a bountiful catch and maritime safety for the year. • Munakata Shrine Benten Festival Held every July, the Munakata Shrine Benten Festival features boats with vivid banners carrying portable shrines; on those boats young men wrestle and roughly toss each other into the sea. ◆We will share recommended sightseeing information for Mihama Town, Fukui Prefecture◆ Mihama Town in Fukui Prefecture is a town blessed with rich nature and history. We will continue to share useful recommendations so you can fully enjoy sightseeing in Mihama Town, Fukui Prefecture. Thank you for your support!