Photographed on March 10, 25. It is the Hanachozu of rape flowers of Senba Toshogu Shrine.

Miyazaki Prefecture North: One of Spring’s Three Great Festivals — "Yoshinonomiya Shrine Grand Festival: Zatōkami Festival" This year it will be held again on March 28!! Come and visit Morotsuka Village as spring arrives Friday, March 28 9:00 AM – Festival ceremony and kagura offerings 11:00 AM – Performance by Satsuma biwa player Kanako Kitahara ＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝＝ Taste the famous Zatō-san specialties: Zatō udon and Magohachi soba, and shop for Morotsuka Village local specialties One-day-only sale of goshuin (shrine stamps) and ofuda (talismans) Picture book "Yoshinonomiya Monogatari" by Taro Gomi will be on sale ＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊ In the mid-Ashikaga period, a blind monk traveling through the area was killed and enshrined here, and the community has held a festival on his death anniversary on March 28 at Yoshinonomiya Shrine Locally, the festival is called "Zatō-san," and it has continued without interruption to this day. #miyazaki #miyazaki_countryside #morotsukavillage #morotsuka #Miyazaki Prefecture #Patchwork Village #Morotsuka Village #Morotsuka Village Tourism Association #Goshuin collecting #Miyazaki goshuin tour #Yoshinonomiya Shrine #Zatō-san Festival #Zatō priest #Yoshinonomiya Monogatari

Photographed on March 15, 25. It is a cold scarlet cherry blossom of the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine direct meeting hall.

Photographed on March 15, 25. In the Shingashi River behind Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, Kawazu cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

Today, I attended the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine Monthly Festival. The Kawazu cherry blossoms on the Shingashi River were in full bloom. 🌸

📍 Akibayama Main Shrine Akiba Shrine (841 Ryoka, Spring Town, Tenryu-ku, Hamamatsu-shi, Shizuoka) 【Overview】 Deep in the mountains of Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, at an elevation of 866 meters, is Akibayama Main Shrine Akiba Shrine. Mt. Akiba is called Mt. Shintai, and it was founded in the 2nd year of Wado (709 AD). It is the Main Shrine of Akiba Shrine, which has more than 400 companies nationwide. ---------------- and Lower Shrine and Upper Shrine, the photograph shows the "Torii (shrine gate) of happiness" in the Upper Shrine. Akibayama is also very famous as the god of fire prevention, and as a local in Hamamatsu City, I am very indebted to him. Even as a child, even if you don't understand the kanji "Akiha-san!", the sound is familiar to your ears. In fact, when I was mentally ill, the first thing my mother brought me to for a change of pace was the Lower Shrine in Akibayama. (Actually, he wanted to take me to the Upper Shrine, but considering my physical strength and physical condition, he decided to go down to the Lower Shrine.) ） That's how important the shrine is to me. Now that I have moved to Tokyo and am living happily, this photo was taken when I stopped by early in the morning on my way back to my parents' house. In fact, on this day, when I arrived at the Car parking lot in Akibayama, I and trouble that my Car was about to break down. However, fortunately, I was able to reach the cars parking lot without stopping in the middle of the slope. In addition, in the restroom of the Car parking lot, I was able to collect the Water used for the worst first aid, and on the way back, I was able to go down and slide safely into the car parts store while cooling the engine. Akibayama helped us with this as well. That's how I feel. ---------------- It may be difficult to visit because of the distance from Hamamatsu Station on the Shinkansen, but I have no regrets about going. It is a shrine that can be affirmed. If you're lucky, you may be able to see a sea of clouds or as far away as Enshu Nada. As for me, I recommend visiting in the morning. It's a place ☺ where the air is clean, there are few people, and your mind is calm. 【！ Caution! Please refrain from destroying the scenery of the shrine, polluting it, or causing inconvenience. Equipment: Nikon D850 Editing software: Adobe Lightroom

Gooden-ji Temple, associated with Honda Tadakatsu, and Isumi Shrine will distribute goshuin (temple and shrine stamps) for one day only. Parts of Gooden-ji’s main hall and Isumi Shrine’s honden, normally closed to the public, will also be opened. Please take this opportunity to visit. Date and time: Sunday, March 30, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM Locations: Gooden-ji (180 Shinchō, Otaki) Isumi Shrine (63-1 Shinchō, Otaki) Main events Gooden-ji: Distribution of goshuin Partial opening of the main hall A lecture on history by parishioners, and more Isumi Shrine: Distribution of goshuin Partial opening of the honden Explanations by the castle town guides, and more

📍 Tama River Sengen Shrine The shrine is located a 2-minute walk from Tama River Station on the Tokyu Toyoko Line, Tama River Line, Meguro Line, Namboku Line, and Mita Line. The God of worship is the god who protects the mountain greenery, Princess Kibana Sakiya. This photo shows the entrance to the shrine (approach to the temple). Since it was the Time Slot / Time of Day when the sun was setting, the photo created a solemn atmosphere. The sunset that you can see at the end of the climb is very beautiful, and it is one of my favorite shrines. 【！ Caution! Please refrain from destroying the scenery of the shrine, polluting it, or causing inconvenience. Equipment: Nikon D850 Editing software: Adobe Lightroom

Mountain Opening Climb ⛰️ Participants Wanted! We will hold the 2025 Mountain Opening Climb. *Participation in the ritual alone is free of charge* ⭐ Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025 ⭐ Participation fee: ¥1,000 (includes insurance and a protective charm) *No registration is required for participation in the ritual only.* ⭐ Course: Tenson Kourin Course ⭐ How to apply: Please apply by phone or via the application form below. ⭐ Application deadline: Monday, April 7 Our staff will lead a slow-paced climb, so beginners 🔰 can join with confidence! 🥳 Important Notes * The age limit is set at 70, but people who exercise regularly may participate even if they are older than 70. * Junior high school students and younger must be accompanied by a guardian. * Please bring your own lunch and emergency rations. * After the ritual, participants will return to the trailhead (the Fifth Sabo Dam) by their own cars. * The event will proceed in light rain, but the secretariat will notify you by the evening of Friday the 11th if it is canceled. The ritual will be held even if the event is canceled. Application Form https://docs.google.com/.../1ik84ozPLmto7PgPEXKrGsPI.../edit... For applications and inquiries Takaharacho Tourism Association 0984-42-4560

Photographed on March 8, 25. It is Hanachozu of Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine. I have a cold, and I am in bed. It's the change of seasons, so please take care of your body. 🤒

Photographed on March 8, 25. It is Hanachozu of Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

Photographed on March 8, 25. It is Hanachozu of Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

Photographed 3/1/25. It is Hanachozu of Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

Hello everyone—this is the Yamato City Event and Tourism Association. We talked about a temple the other day, so today we will introduce a shrine in Yamato. Fukami Shrine is a shrine located about a 15-minute walk from Yamato Station on the Odakyu Enoshima Line and the Sotetsu Line. The enshrined deities are Takemikazuchi no Kami and Takeminakata no Kami. Takemikazuchi no Kami is also known as the deity of Kashima Shrine, the head shrine Kashima Jingu, often called Kashima-sama. Both deities are powerful war gods associated with martial prowess, and they are indispensable for prayers for victory. Fukami Shrine is the only shrine in the city listed in the Engishiki Jinmyocho, a register compiled in the Nara and Heian periods, making it one of the Engishiki-designated shrines. It has been recorded as one of the region’s representative shrines since ancient times. Fukami Shrine is also known for its harunire tree, selected as one of Kanagawa’s 100 notable trees and designated as a Yamato City historic site, scenic spot, and natural monument. This harunire reaches about 30 meters in height, which is rare in lowland areas like Yamato. Because its species was once unknown, locals originally called it the “nanjamonja tree,” and that familiar local name still endures. Nestled in a quiet residential neighborhood, Fukami Shrine makes a lovely stop on a walking route. Fukami Shrine 3367 Fukami, Yamato City, Kanagawa Prefecture https://www.fukamijinjya.com//

Photographed 3/1/25. It is Hanachozu of Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

Photographed 3/1/25. It is Hanachozu of Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

Mr. Jizo in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City Many of them are simple paintings that look like eyes and noses in chaos

Today, I attended the Kawagoe Kumano Shrine Prayer Festival. This is the love water of Kawagoe Kumano Shrine.

Nagawacho Wada Kyuin Shrine "After a heavy, continuous downpour, floods swept through and clusters of earthworms about one shaku long died. After that, an epidemic broke out in this area and caused a great uproar. People said, 'It's the curse of the earthworms,' so they built a small shrine and enshrined the earthworms." Kyuin (earthworm) may have transformed into a deity, and it is called 'Okin-sama.' The earthworm's form is... 😘

Nagawacho Wada along the Nakasendo A stone monument erected near the side path toward the Mimizu Shrine. Can you see that it says “mimizu”? It’s such an adorable Mimizu-sama (Okin-sama) 😊

Today, I attended the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine Monthly Festival.

Demonstration against Shinzo Abe's state funeral

I came to Toyama for sightseeing, but unfortunately it snowed If it's snowing, you can't just go out to see the snowy scenery, so you can walk from the hotel to the Takaoka Great Buddha On a snowy night, while no one was around, the Light up Takaoka Great Buddha was quite handsome.

Discover the charms of Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture! Arao City, located in northern Kumamoto Prefecture on the border with Fukuoka Prefecture, is a captivating destination with the World Cultural Heritage site Manda Pit, beautiful nature, and leisure spots. Through Cool Japan videos, we will bring you plenty of information on Arao City’s sightseeing, gourmet food, and events! Stay tuned! ■■■Sightseeing spots in Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture■■■ Arao offers many places to enjoy history, nature, and leisure. Be sure to visit. ◇Manda Pit (Manda-kō) This coal mine site flourished from the Meiji era through the Showa era and is part of the World Cultural Heritage “Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution.” With brick winding engine rooms and massive steel headframes, you can feel the power and history of the mines. ◇Greenland One of Kyushu’s largest amusement parks, Greenland features more than 70 attractions. It’s a top leisure spot where families and friends can spend the whole day. Fireworks are held several times a year, drawing large crowds. ◇Arao Tidal Flats (Arao Higata) This Ramsar-listed tidal flat is a precious habitat visited by many migratory birds. It’s perfect for birdwatching and leisurely walks. ◇Yotsuyama Shrine Yotsuyama Shrine has watched over Arao’s history and remains beloved by the local community. Many worshippers still visit; a grand torii welcomes visitors to a peaceful shrine atmosphere. ■■■Local specialties and gourmet food of Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture■■■ Arao is full of local culinary delights to savor! ◇Arao Pears Known nationwide for their large size and rich sweetness, Arao pears offer a juicy, crisp texture. The new summer variety, Arao nashi, has attracted attention as a summer fruit. ◇Melon Bread Arao boasts many melon bread shops, including Fukuyama’s Melon Bread and Mankodo’s Melon Bread. ◇Kosen Dago A giant okonomiyaki exceeding 30 cm in diameter, this local favorite is loved by residents and tourists for its size and flavor. ◇Ojiro ware Ojiro ware is a representative Kyushu pottery fired for about 400 years on the northern slopes of Mount Odai. Its glazes blend deep indigo and blue with white slip, earning high artistic praise. ◇Arao Olive Olive cultivation is thriving, and locally produced olive oil is often used as a gift. ■■■Events in Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture■■■ Arao hosts enjoyable events throughout the seasons! ◇Arao Night Market A summer festival held at Manda Pit, the night market gathers many gourmet food trucks and attracts large crowds each year. ◇Nobaru Hachimangu Annual Festival (Nobarasan) Affectionately called “Nobarasan” by locals, this festival preserves a traditional performance known as furyu that has been passed down orally for over 770 years. Furyu is designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, and in 2022 the furyu dance was inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. ◇Yotsuyama Shrine Annual Festival (Kokunzosan) Local elementary and junior high school students perform miko dances such as Urayasu no Mai and Toyosakae no Mai. Climb the 311 steps that lead to the shrine to offer prayers and receive lucky coins, and enjoy the many stalls lining the path to Yotsuyama Shrine. ◇Majaku Fishing Tournament A signature Arao event, this unique tournament involves catching majaku (ghost shrimp) on the tidal flats—an authentic local experience. ◇Manda Pit Spring Festa A spring event held at Manda Pit featuring a variety of attractions. It’s popular with families and visitors. ■■■Hot springs and accommodation in Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture■■■ Arao also offers relaxing hot springs and a range of accommodations. ◇Accommodation in Arao City The city has ample hotels that are convenient for both sightseeing and business. Some properties feature hot springs, perfect for unwinding after a day of travel. We will continue to share Arao City’s attractions through Cool Japan videos! Come and enjoy Arao’s history, nature, and gourmet food! #Kumamoto Prefecture #Arao City #Kumamoto tourism #World Cultural Heritage #Manda Pit #Greenland #Arao pears #Melon bread #coal mine

How many snow patterns can you see from Shinano-Omachi? Today's quiz! We had an enormous amount of snow this winter. On mornings when I have to dig my car out before commuting, I feel completely drained from the start of the day. This morning the snow glittered, each flake shining like a crystal. The temperature dropped sharply and the air itself seemed to sparkle. When spring comes and the mountain snow begins to melt, snow patterns appear on the slopes. In Hakuba, where I grew up, there are patterns like the rice-transplanting horse and the Takeda crest on Goryu, but I learned that Azumino has many other snow patterns too! How many do you know? How many snow patterns can be seen from Omachi City? As always, find the answer on our blog! Please come visit us. We also introduce station-to-hike courses that start in April. https://kanko-omachi.gr.jp/blog/90844/... The Omachi City Tourism Association's Instagram logo has been refreshed! We mainly introduce activities in Shinano-Omachi. Please follow and like our page! Likes make us very happy and encourage us a lot. https://www.instagram.com/omachi_activitybook/... Thank you for always reading!

Today, I attended the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine Tencho Festival.

Mystery-Solving Event at Gion Shrine On Saturday, February 22, a mystery-solving event took place at Gion Shrine in the Kuraoka district 👏 The event was titled “Gion Shrine Real Mystery: ‘As the Gods Say’” 💡 Local high school students from Gokase Secondary School led the planning, collaborating with local company Gokase Entertainment and the Kuraoka Lovers Women’s Group to prepare the event 😳✨ Participants of all ages gathered, and the shrine grounds rang with lively voices 🤗🎶 The puzzles were quite difficult until a spark of insight or a discovery occurred… I tried hard to solve them but couldn’t in the end 🤣 I had to borrow the children’s wisdom, haha As we solved the puzzles, we learned the correct way to worship at Gion Shrine 😯💡 I had no idea about those customs, so the many new discoveries were great fun 🤩 After finishing the puzzles, participants faced a two-part showdown with the gods played by Gokase Secondary School students ⚔️ The first part, “Sengoku Gokase Town,” was a game in which players spent their held points to approach the god; the winner was the one who first knocked the bead off the god’s shoulder with a sword 💪 In the second part, the winning prize from part one, a rope, was formed into a circle on the ground as a ring, and contestants challenged the god in a hand-push sumo match 👐 Both games excited adults and children alike, and smiles filled the event from start to finish 😆 After completing all stages, participants received a “Mystery Completion Certificate,” but looking closely revealed the certificates came in different colors…🤔? It turned out the hand-push sumo in part two mirrored the ceremonial sumo offered to entertain the gods during the Morimaki ritual held at Gion Shrine. Since the tradition holds that “the one who loses to the god is correct,” the completion certificates of those who lost the hand-push sumo gleamed in gold🤣 You could feel the students’ attention to detail throughout the setting, and it was wonderful 🥹✨ At the end, participants and students took a commemorative photo together, and warm tea provided by Yukihoshien was served as a participation prize, bringing the lively, friendly event to a close 😌👏 Seeing Gokase Town come alive through events created by students, local businesses, and community groups working together is truly moving 🥹 We hope the whole town continues to join forces to keep Gokase Town thriving ✨

Prayer at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine today. Ume Plum is in Best time to visit. 🌸

Photographed on February 8, 25. It is Hanachozu of Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

Photographed on February 8, 25. It is Hanachozu of Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.