The 58th Oketo Summer Festival and the 48th Human Banba Competition will take place on Sunday, June 29th! The “Human Banba” competition, now synonymous with Oketo Town, draws many teams from across Hokkaido, with about 50 teams taking part in this popular event. Last year it was a huge success, with teams filling the entry slots! As you may know, the “Human Banba” reflects Oketo’s history of prosperity built on the timber industry, and for many years it has been held as a town-run festival that brings the community together. The festival also features food stalls, festival games, the Oketo Kouta dance, guest stage shows, and a fireworks display—there’s plenty to enjoy! For more details, please see the poster or Oketo Town’s website! https://www.town.oketo.hokkaido.jp/shokai/kanko/natsumatsuri/...

🌸[Hokuryu Town Cherry Blossom Spot Introduction vol.6]🌸 Hello, this is the Hokuryu Town Sunflower Tourism Association🌻 This time, we again introduce cherry blossom spots that color spring in Hokuryu Town! 🌟The sixth installment is―― “A Tour of Wild Cherry Trees along the Etaibetsu River”! The Etaibetsu River flows through Hokuryu Town. Along this river, we present simple, beautiful wild cherry trees that bloom in their natural state! There are no signboards or information boards here, and no paved promenades or benches. It isn’t a so‑called “maintained scenic spot,” but precisely for that reason you can feel the unvarnished beauty of nature. The wild cherries, blooming as if leaning into the land, quietly announce the arrival of spring right next to everyday life. Especially striking are lone cherry trees standing against the backdrop of farmland and the trees that bloom beside rivers where snowmelt rushes dramatically—scenes beyond words. Even on the paths locals pass casually, such beautiful spring scenes unfold. These nameless cherry trees weave a simple, gentle landscape— We look forward to meeting again next year the cherry trees that will bloom, once more, nestled in this town’s nature 😊

The immortal grand champion Taiho's glory and legacy are on display here. Kawayu Onsen in Teshikaga, where Taiho spent his boyhood years. Here you will find the Taiho Sumo Memorial Museum, which tells the story of Taiho's dominant career from the 1960s onward. This time, we introduce the Taiho Sumo Memorial Museum of the great Showa-era yokozuna Taiho. https://masyuko.or.jp/enjoy/sightseeing/facility/taiho_sumou_k/...

[Kawayu Onsen Illustration Exhibition and “KawaCos” Held Together on June 7 and 8!] A perfect chance to enjoy subculture in Kawayu Onsen, Teshikaga, amid fresh green scenery! On June 7 and 2025 and June 8, 2025, the Kawayu Onsen Illustration Exhibition “Kawayu＋i Exhibition” and the cosplay event “KawaCos” will take place simultaneously. The illustration exhibition features a record 30 creators from Hokkaido and beyond, showcasing a variety of illustrations full of love for Kawayu and Teshikaga. Admission is free, and the venue will distribute a special “Bath Tour Passport” that offers half-price day-trip baths for adults at four member ryokan of the Kawayu Onsen Ryokan Association, while the public bath “Yukichi” in Kawayu will be available at Teshikaga resident rates. Meanwhile, at KawaCos, cosplayers can enjoy shooting around the hot spring town and in the great outdoors of Akan–Mashu National Park, including Mt. Iou, Lake Mashu, and Lake Kussharo. This year, for the first time, there will also be an itasha (decorated car) display and a small parade through the hot spring town. Please stop by and join us!! ・Kawayu Onsen Illustration Exhibition “Kawayu＋i Exhibition” Third Edition ・Date and Time: Saturday, June 7, 2025 and Sunday, June 8, 2025, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (open until 9:00 PM on June 7 only) ・Venue: Onyado Kinkiyu, 2nd floor (former restaurant), 1-5-10 Kawayu Onsen, Teshikaga, Kawakami District ・Organizer: Kawayui Exhibition Executive Committee ・Supported by: Kawayu Onsen Ryokan Association ・Cooperation: East Hokkaido Illustration Project For the latest on the Kawayu Onsen Illustration Exhibition, please see the official Kawayu Onsen Ryokan Association X account. Hokkaido Kawayu Onsen (Illustration exhibition on June 7 and 8) (@kawayuonseniine) / X For the latest on KawaCos, please see the official KawaCos X account. Official KawaCos Management (@kawayu_cos) / X

🌸[Introducing Sakura Spots in Hokuryu vol.5]🌸 Hello from the Hokuryu Town Sunflower Tourism Association🌻 This time, we introduce more sakura spots that color spring in Hokuryu Town! 🌟The fifth installment is―― “A Shrine Tour of Hokuryu Town”! Today we present three shrines in Hokuryu Town and the cherry blossoms we found there⛩️🌸 Each shrine offers its own character, a soothing quiet, and striking harmony with the cherry blossoms. 🌸[Hekisu Shrine] Hekisu Shrine greets visitors with a vivid red torii gate and a classic shrine atmosphere. Four to six cherry trees bloom on the grounds, creating a beautiful contrast against the sky. With spring breezes blowing, the view of the blossoms framed by the torii felt so still it seemed time had stopped. 🌸[Shinryu Shrine] Shinryu Shrine is notable for its brownish torii gate. The cherry tree on the right side of the precincts is especially lovely, its soft petals blending perfectly with the calm shrine buildings. A guardian lion-dog sitting atop a ball makes a memorable, slightly unusual sight—one of this shrine’s little charms🤔 🌸[Mibau Shrine] Mibau Shrine stands quietly a little way from the town center. Set amid open rice fields, its solitary presence evokes a gentle sense of nostalgia. As the cherry blossoms sway softly, listening to the wind here brings a natural calm to the heart🌾 Each shrine’s history, atmosphere, and the beauty of the cherry blossoms— Hokuryu Town is dotted with these quiet, moving moments. Enjoying the blossoms while feeling the town’s history and people’s sentiments— come and try this serene spring shrine tour for yourself 😊✨ We warmly await your visit 😊✨

Spring is in full swing! In Taiki Town, the flower season has truly begun. Shibazakura (moss phlox) are at their best on Mount Mewa! Around Sakashita Senkyo and at Taiki Shrine, we found a variety of flowers. The last two photos show new leaves sprouting beneath the withered kashiwa oak leaves still clinging to the branches! https://visit-taiki.hokkaido.jp//

An aerial photo of Tomakomai ✨🛫 Can you sense the generally flat terrain with little elevation change? To the northwest of the city stands Mount Tarumae, an active volcano with an elevation of 1,041 meters. 1. Lake Utonai (does it look a bit like the shape of Hokkaido...?) 2. The city viewed from above Tomakomai West Port 3. The oil storage facility in eastern Tomakomai 4. Mount Tarumae lava dome (in the distance you can see Lake Shikotsu and Mount Fuppushi in Chitose)

The Forest Park is now open! Opened with the start of Golden Week, Nishiokoppe Village Forest Park. There are plenty of events. Food trucks and vendors from various regions appeared, making for a lively Golden Week. Thank you to everyone who visited! Here’s a quick introduction to the playground equipment. Batting: 20 balls for 200 yen Struck Out: 12 balls for 200 yen (This year’s first home run was by a villager, it seems!) Battery Car: Airplane & Sheep shape 100 yen per ride Dinosaur shape 200 yen per ride Go-Kart: Single rider 300 yen for one lap Double rider 400 yen for one lap (With many curves and challenging spots, it’s a thrilling go-kart experience.) Bouldering: Shoe rental 100 yen per use *Not available with outdoor shoes or socks *You can use your own indoor shoes (You’ll use your arms and legs, engaging your whole body!) Additionally, there are free play equipment like a bouncy dome, tarzan rope, spring toys, and swings. Relaxing on the lawn is also recommended. Please wait a little longer for the opening of the tent sites. For meals, head to "Kuu Raku" within the park! Takeout is also available, so feel free to ask. We look forward to seeing many of you this year too!

It is a cherry blossom that I saw in Nemuro, which is said to be the latest blooming declaration in Japan. It was still a little chilly in Hokkaido, but there were people here and there who came to see it, and I was able to enjoy the second flowering.

Near the Lake Nukabira, the Tauszvets River Bridge, which can only be seen when the Water is low. The magnificent scenery of the Nature spread over the bridges where the Japanese National Railways once ran was and fascinating.

[2025: Bicycle Rentals Start in Teshikaga] Bicycle rentals are now available at four locations across Teshikaga! Whether you want to enjoy the scenery from a bike, can’t drive but want to reach nearby attractions, or have other needs, this service suits many situations. Please use it to match your travel plans 🚲✨ For more details, see Teshikaga Navi 🔍 https://masyuko.or.jp/news/rentalbike2025/...

Introducing the kiosk inside Shintoku Station, Stella Station We sell souvenirs from Shintoku Town, drinks, snacks, and more, and we also offer something called a “Children’s Ticket” at the register. With the tickets we bought, children can exchange them for dagashi (cheap snacks) or drinks. They are for students up to high school and are handy as a snack before school or outings, or for when mom or dad won’t buy snacks (laughs). Here’s how the children use it: First they draw a ticket fortune (omikuji), then exchange it for a ticket, choose dagashi and drinks up to the amount shown on the ticket, and have the staff at the kiosk confirm the total is within the limit. Finally, the children write a thank-you message. These messages are displayed densely under the Stella Station sign, so please take a look. Watching this, I noticed some kids giving a piece of candy to friends with smaller amounts or pooling tickets with friends to get snacks together, and I was impressed by their friendship and thoughtfulness. Seeing the children, I bought a ticket with the coins in my wallet. I felt like I’d done a small good deed (laughs). This lovely initiative is happening inside Shintoku Station, so if you’re interested in it, if you’re looking for souvenirs in Shintoku, or even if you just want to kill time while waiting for a train, come and drop by—any reason is fine. #Hokkaido #Hokkaido tourism #Tokachi #Tokachi tourism #Shintoku Town #Shintoku Town Tourism Association #Shintoku Station #kiosk #Stella Station #children’s fortune tickets #children’s omikuji #omikuji #children’s tickets #Toku-Toku station-front complex #tuktuk #TokuToku #hokkaido #hokkaidotrip #hokkaidotourism #tourism #tokachi #shintoku #welcomeshintoku #discovershintoku

🌸[Hokuryu Town Cherry Blossom Spot Introduction vol.4]🌸 Hello, this is the Hokuryu Town Sunflower Tourism Association🌻 This time, we introduce another cherry blossom spot that colors spring in Hokuryu Town! 🌟The fourth feature is―― “Cherry Trees in the Ichii Forest”! Today we present Ichii Forest, a handmade woodland cared for by Hokuryu residents, filled with a pioneering spirit🌳✨ This forest charms visitors with a promenade dotted with song and poetry monuments tied to the town’s history, offering a literary romance. In spring, several Ezo-yamazakura (Japanese mountain cherry) bloom along the path, delighting walkers🌸 What stayed with me most this visit was―― a solitary cherry tree quietly blooming deep along the trail. With its graceful branches and delicate blossoms set against the neighboring farmland, the scene felt like a painting and moved me to tears…! In the hush of the forest, the unexpected encounter with this spring miracle felt cleansing to the heart😂 Because it sits a little off the beaten path, it may still be little known, but that seclusion brings a rare tranquility and a moment to face nature. Even after cherry season ends, Ichii Forest’s appeal does not fade🍃 We want to continue cherishing and protecting this forest where the townspeople’s feelings live on. When you visit Hokuryu Town, please be sure to stop by Ichii Forest. We warmly look forward to your visit😊✨

🌸[Hokuryu Town Cherry Blossom Spot Introduction vol.3]🌸 Hello, this is the Hokuryu Town Sunflower Tourism Association🌻 This time we introduce another cherry blossom spot that colors spring in Hokuryu Town! 🌟The third feature is―― “The Single Cherry Tree at Kōtokuji”! The site we present is Kōtokuji, the 9th temple on the Hokkaido 88 Sacred Sites pilgrimage. The Hokkaido 88 Sacred Sites pilgrimage was modeled after the Shikoku 88 Sacred Sites and forms a Buddhist pilgrimage route. You can enjoy a journey that visits eighty-eight temples scattered across Hokkaido while experiencing nature, culture, and faith. Kōtokuji, one of those temples, stands quietly in a calm setting, and in spring a magnificent single cherry tree blooms in full, delighting many visitors’ eyes🌸 The temple grounds also feature a small bronze bell called the “Bell of Prayer,” which anyone may ring freely🔔🎶 Its gentle sound will soothe the hearts of pilgrims and tourists alike. Although the cherry blossoms have already fallen, the tranquil, prayer-filled space of Kōtokuji offers a moment to center your mind regardless of the season. When you visit Hokuryu Town, please stop by as part of a pilgrimage or as a restful break on your journey🍃 We sincerely look forward to your visit😊✨

Harsh cold has come to an end, and Ashoro is gradually entering a more comfortable season. As it warms up, the number of hikers on MtMeakan seems to be increasing, so we would like to remind you once more of precautions for climbing MtMeakan. With the recent rise in hikers, accidents on the trails have increased. Many reports involve hikers experiencing leg pain during descent. Prepare carefully according to your fitness, strength, skills, and experience, and do not push yourself beyond your limits. MtMeakan is relatively accessible even for beginners, but it is a 1,500-meter-class mountain in Hokkaido. Even in summer (around July) temperatures can fall close to 0°C depending on the weather, or rise above 35°C in extreme heat. There are many cases where MtMeakan experiences bad weather while Ashoro town is clear. Weather can change quickly. Because it is an isolated peak, strong winds near the summit can fling small stones. Local people avoid climbing when the trees at the trailhead are already howling in the wind. As an active volcano, check volcanic alerts and be fully aware of its volcanic status before deciding to climb. • Do not climb in light clothing. Proper hiking boots are recommended. Many trail sections have tree roots forming a mesh, which become especially slippery when wet. Near the summit there are no trees and the terrain is stone and sand, making descents particularly slippery. Some people have fallen, hit their heads, and required helicopter evacuation. Given sudden weather and temperature changes and the exposed winds near the treeless summit, rain gear such as a mountaineering rain jacket is essential. When we climb around June, we always bring at least one fleece for warmth. Even in July–August, a day that exceeds 30°C can be followed by a day below 10°C. Insulate against cold and make sure to bring adequate food and drink. Don’t forget a map and compass. • Stay on the trail and do not collect plants or animals. We maintain the trail each year and mark it with pink tape and rock markers so hikers don’t get lost (maintenance for fiscal 2025 is scheduled for May 22). For the protection of plants and animals, do not leave the trail. As this area lies within a national park, collecting plants or animals is strictly prohibited. For other precautions and information, please check the website below. https://www.town.ashoro.hokkaido.jp/kanko/spot/spot-9.html...

"Fairy Tale Village Takinoue Moss Phlox Festival Flower Migration Markets" Held in on May 18th! At "Moss Phlox Takikami Park", where the Moss phlox is in best time to visit, the "Flower Migration Markets" will be held in. Engaru Town will also participate in this Events along with Monbetsu City! Held in a photo session with local characters and a quiz contest (prizes will be won for those who answer correctly) at the venue on the day of the event. In addition, at the Engaru Town booth, Specialty products will be sold (Geo Ice, Black Noodles, Shirayosha Tenuki Rice Sauce Series, etc.) and a limited number of experiences (obsidian key chain making 500 yen charged). Events to take place in the view of a vast and wonderful flower field! Please come and visit us ♪ Date & Time: May 18 (Sun) 10:00~14:00 Venue: Moss Phlox Takikami Park (Motomachi, Takinoue Town, Monbetsu District)

🌸[Hokuryu Town Cherry Blossom Spot Guide vol.2]🌸 Hello, this is the Hokuryu Town Sunflower Tourism Association🌻 This time, we introduce another cherry blossom spot that colors spring in Hokuryu Town! 🌟The second pick is— “Sunflower Park Golf Course”! Set in wide open natural surroundings, this full-scale course boasts 36 holes certified by the International Park Golf Association, and many visitors were enjoying park golf there⛳🏌️‍♀️ At this time of year, Ezo-yamazakura cherry trees sway in the spring breeze and bloom beautifully, creating a luxurious experience where you can play and also enjoy hanami (flower viewing)🌸 Playing park golf while gazing at the blossoms is a wonderfully refreshing springtime pleasure😊 Rental equipment is also available, so it’s easy to drop by empty-handed—a feature visitors appreciate! This spot is popular not only with locals but also with tourists♪ After the cherry blossom season passes, you can still enjoy nature while being active, surrounded by fresh green foliage and fields of fully bloomed sunflowers. Why not spend a pleasant time feeling the refreshing breeze?🍃 We sincerely look forward to your visit🎶

Ponponyama, a mountain with high geothermal activity that emits mysterious sounds. It is a small, friendly peak, ideal for forest bathing and birdwatching. Here we introduce Ponponyama. https://masyuko.or.jp/enjoy/ponponyama/...

The Tomuraushi Onsen Line bus is running again this year 🚌 Hop on the bus and enjoy the Kuttari area. @tac_hokkaido @tokachi_outdoormates #Rafting #Park golf #Farm experience #Berry picking Hop on the bus and wash away your sweat at Kuttari Onsen. @lake_inn2141 @avanto37 #Sauna #Cliffs (ganke) Hop on the bus and ride the release from Iwamatsu Dam or watch the rafting. #Tokachi River #Iwamatsu Dam #Rafting Hop on the bus and relax at the café in Yama no Koryukan Tomura in the Tomuraushi area. @kamuimintara2000 #Café Hop on the bus and refresh your whole body at Tomuraushi Onsen. @higashitaisetsusou #Tomuraushi Onsen #Hidden hot spring #Hot spring Hop on the bus and use it as a base for mountain climbing. @higashitaisetsusou #Campsite Whether you come from far away or bring your own car, traveling without a car will be a charming experience and make great memories. Why not hop on the bus without plans and let the passing time and scenery carry you away?

🌸[Introducing Sakura Spots in Hokuryu vol.1]🌸 Hello, this is the Hokuryu Town Sunflower Tourism Association🌻 From this installment, we will introduce the sakura spots that color spring in Hokuryu Town! First up―― Kompira Park Campground! At Kompira Park, perched on a gentle hill, Ezo-yamazakura reached peak bloom from the latter half of Golden Week🌸 This seasonal spectacle delights all who come to see it. Even better, the Kompira Park Campground is free to use! Many visitors enjoy it as a place where hanami and camping come together. Although the cherry blossoms have now finished, moss phlox will begin to bloom next! Why not take it easy and enjoy spring’s nature? 😊 We look forward to your visit!

Cherry blossoms have opened in Kimobetsu Town, and the weather has warmed. More people are playing outside and going for walks! Kimobetsu Town Park is a nature-rich park in Kimobetsucho, Abuta District, Hokkaido. Its expansive grounds feature a high-rope climbing course and wooden athletic playground equipment, offering fun for children and adults alike. The park also includes a 36-hole park golf course, where you can enjoy sports while gazing at MtShiribetsu rising before you. Clubs are available for rent, so you can easily play during a drive. Why not spend a relaxing time in nature at Kimobetsu Town Park? Kimobetsu Town Park Location: Aikawa, Kimobetsucho, Abuta District, Hokkaido Phone: 0136-33-2211 (Kimobetsu Town Office)

It is "Taiyo-no-Oka Engaru Park Moss Phlox Park" on May 13th. The moss phlox and tulips are almost in full bloom and are in best time to visit. Many people come to see it ♪ Address: Marudai, Engaru Town, Monbetsu District, Hokkaido

This photo was 📷✨ taken at the venue of the Kushiro Town Cherry Blossom Festival Held in on May 11 Some of the cherry blossoms were in buds, but they were blessed with sunny weather and were blooming lively! A seasonal tradition 🌸 where you can feel Spring There were 😊 a lot of people at the gathering

I was interviewed! I would be happy if I could share the warmth of Higashikawa-cho—the natural beauty and its welcoming people—with many people ☺️ Please have a read if you like~ 🥰 https://jcation.com/satoapp/1042/...

"Hooray! ｣

Flower Dream Marche a Big Hit! May 3 (Sat) – May 5 (Mon) The spring Nishiokoppe Village Marche ran for three days. As expected this time too, the Roadside Station parking lot filled with cars 🚙 When I arrived, I started by savoring venison with Ezo deer balls and red wine stew. A bowl of soba or udon topped with spring mountain vegetable tempura slid down smoothly. The mountain vegetables were yomogi (mugwort) and gyoja garlic (wild garlic). I felt the spring and replenished my energy. For souvenirs, I took home Setoushi-kun yaki and a chiffon cake. I had been looking forward to the fluffy chiffon cake, so I was glad to get one before it sold out! The children’s festival booth buzzed with candy fishing and a lottery to win toys. Booths selling plums, garlic, and tea added to the scene, and the vendors looked friendly and cheerful. There were moments when strong winds threatened to disrupt things, but the three days concluded safely. Thank you very much to everyone who visited! #Nishiokoppe Village #Hokkaido #Roadside Station #Flower Dream #Nishiokoppe Village Marche #Ezo deer balls #Yumemura Mori no Garden #Baishin #Puppet Theater Circle Doremi

Grass Roll Painting Returns! Last year, we painted Setoushi-kun on a pair of stacked grass rolls, and the result proved more popular than expected, so we decided to do it again this year! Grass Roll Painting This year’s installation is in front of the management building at the Forest Park. If you spot a large orange object from around the intersection by the post office, that’s the grass roll. Using oil-based paint and markers, and with help from children visiting the park, we finished the painting. There’s even the autograph of that person who visited during Golden Week! The display will remain until around autumn. If you pass by, please come and take a look. #Nishiokoppe Village #Hokkaido #Forest Park #Grass Roll #Painting #Orange cow pattern #No face #Setoushi-kun

[May 31–October 31] Join the Cycling Stamp Rally! In the Mashu–Kussharo area, crisp air and lush greenery signal the best season for cycling. Ride across the vast caldera—the largest in Japan—and collect stamps while soaking up the spectacular scenery. This year’s Granfondo Mashu Cycling Stamp Rally will run again. There are 24 stamp locations across Teshikaga Town, and the event runs for five months from Saturday, May 31, 2025, to Friday, October 31, 2025. In addition to Lake Mashu, Mt. Io (Atosanupuri), and the shores of Lake Kussharo, you can tackle scenic mountain passes…! Whether you ride leisurely or push the pace, enjoy cycling at your own speed. ___________________________________ Entry Fee 1,000 yen per person Participant Benefits When you pay the entry fee at registration, you will receive the following benefit tickets. 1. A hot spring bathing voucher redeemable in town 2. A 500-yen voucher usable at Roadside Station Mashu Onsen and other locations Prize Draws Participants who collect stamp points will be entered into prize draws. Complete Prize (Visit all 24 locations!!) • A pair stay at the Prince Hotel (1 winner) • A short glass or single-bud vase from Kawayu Onsen Yunohanaglass (7 winners) • A set of Teshikaga Town local specialties (5 winners) Challenger Prize (Visit 15 locations!!) • Teshikaga Town local specialties (30 winners) ___________________________________ Easy Entry 1. Register on site (two registration locations; no reservation required) 2. Pay the 1,000-yen entry fee in cash 3. Scan the QR code to START! (You may complete the rally over multiple days during the event period) 4. Apply for prizes (Choose your prize category based on the number of stamps) There are 24 stamp points in total! You can also view suggested course routes from the barcode at the bottom of the flyer. Be sure to check it out♪ ___________________________________ Organizer: Granfondo Mashu Executive Committee Inquiries: Lake Mashu Tourism Association 015-482-2200 https://masyuko.or.jp/news/granfondo2025/...

Finally, the cherry blossoms began to 🌸 bloom in Kushiro Held in cherry blossom festivals in and around Kushiro City this weekend! Enjoy it. ★ Nearby Events Information ★ 5/10-5/25 Kushiro Sakura Festival (Kushiro Yanagicho Park) 5/10・11 Kushiro Town Cherry Blossom Festival (Kushiro Street Memorial Park Beppo Park) 5/10-5/18 Akkeshi Cherry Blossom and Oyster Festival (Konohi Park)

Cherry blossoms have started to bloom. The town's Ezo-yamazakura cherry trees have begun to flower! Some trees are already at their peak. Spring is in full swing! https://visit-taiki.hokkaido.jp//