<Atosanupuri Trekking Tour> Atosanupuri, whose name means “bare mountain” in the Ainu language. About 1,500 fumaroles and the beautiful yellow sulfur crystals that spread around them have been designated Teshikaga’s "Specified Natural Tourism Resource," and the mountain is a restricted access area under Article 19 of the Ecotourism Promotion Act. If you are seeking a special and rare trekking experience, please join us. Advance reservations are required, so don’t forget to book! Limited guided climbs led by certified guides / Winner of the Minister of the Environment Award at the 18th Ecotourism Awards https://masyuko.or.jp/enjoy/atosanupuri_trekking_tour/...

[Reservation Required] Summer 2025: Town Tour Bus Operated with the “Teshikaga Eco Passport”! We are announcing the Summer 2025 operation schedule for the Mashu–Kuttari (Mashu–Kushiro) sightseeing loop bus that visits the main scenic spots in Teshikaga. The loop bus ticket, the Teshikaga Eco Passport, will again be available this year in two types: a 2-day pass and a 3-day pass. Please reserve in advance and make full use of it. It’s recommended for anyone who feels uneasy about driving or who wants an easy way to enjoy sightseeing in Teshikaga. [Operation Period] Saturday, July 26, 2025 – Sunday, August 31, 2025 [Fares] Adult Child 2-day pass (2 days) 2,000 yen 1,000 yen 3-day pass (3 days) 3,000 yen 1,000 yen [Inquiries] Mashu-ko Tourism Association 015-482-2200 (Weekdays 9:00–17:00) [Open Only During the Period] Eco Pass Stations JR Mashu Station 9:30–16:30 JR Kawayu Onsen Station 8:30–16:30 070-8995-2599 (Eco Pass dedicated line) https://masyuko.or.jp/news/2025summermoekopassaruyo/...

On Sunday, June 1, representatives from Ashoro Town, the Ashoro Tourism Association, the Ashoro Mountain Friends Association, the Ministry of the Environment, the Eastern Forest Management Office, Hokkaido Police and other stakeholders gathered to hold the 2025 MtMeakan Climbing Safety Prayer Ceremony, followed by a prayer climb. We recently shared safety reminders about climbing, and we ask anyone planning a climb to take care to avoid accidents and enjoy ascending MtMeakan again this year.

Kussharo Kotan Ainu Museum stands in Kotan on the shores of Lake Kussharo, where Ainu people have lived since ancient times. You can hear the living breath of Ainu life and culture. https://masyuko.or.jp/enjoy/ainu_m_s/...

Many students are taking part in guiding volunteers on Mt. Takao again this year! Feel free to speak to any of them.

Yatsugatake Trail Maintenance and Tsukumogusa Survey I climbed Yatsugatake for a route inspection, trail maintenance, and tsukumogusa survey ahead of the “Mt. Yokodake Tsukumogusa Hike” scheduled for May 30. The Somae-one Ridge had snow from about 2,400 meters up to just above the observation platform, with depths exceeding 50 cm in places. Many fallen trees, large and small, blocked the route, so I worked my way up cutting them away with a handsaw. Beyond the steep climb, the ridge was once again carpeted with tsukumogusa in full bloom this year.

"The landscape of Japan that has been passed down from generation to generation" is "Kagefuji" When it comes to Mount Fuji, I think most climbers are looking for the light. However, I am more attracted to this evening's shadow Fuji than to the coming light. The shadow of Mount Fuji, one of the symbols of Japan, can only be seen by climbing. And the biggest shadow in No.1 in Japan! It is the shadow Fuji in the evening seen from the 8th station of the Mount Fuji Yoshida route, Elevation of about 3400 meters. Scene of the shadow of Mt. Mount Fuji gradually extending. September 10, 2023 16:44~17:53

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...

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?

Matsukawa Valleys The fresh greenery around Yamada Hot spring is in Best time to visit (^^)/ Now that the young leaves are budding, the Valleys dyed in pale green A beauty that takes even those who live here breathtaking. Fun for a short period of time because the leaves grow in no time Strong sunshine, blue sky, and gentle green May sunshine Mai-no-michi Promenade in Yamada Hot spring It is a walking course of about 30 in about 1.3 km time In the Fresh greenery Valleys, while listening to the voices of birds and the murmur of the river, I want you to walk slowly There is no doubt that just taking a deep breath will have a healing effect Refresh your body and mind A walk in the fresh greenery is now!

Shiraiwa Mountain Opening 🌸 Today (May 11), the Shiraiwa Mountain Opening was held at the Gokasecho Highland Ski Area Parking Center😊 A Shinto ceremony took place on the mountain, with organizers and other attendees praying for safety while enjoying the crisp mountain air👏 After the ceremony, those who wished began climbing toward the rhododendron colony💪 Azaleas, Okamenoki, yama-shakuyaku (mountain peony), and rhododendrons appeared to be in full bloom💡 ⚠ Notice ⚠ From May 12, Reiwa 7, the town road Hon-yashiki/Hagi Line and the Hagi Forest Road, which provide access to the Goboubatake trailhead (Shiraiwa Mountain, Mukaisakayama, and Kiridachigoe), will be closed to all traffic until further notice due to road disaster recovery work. To reach Shiraiwa Mountain, Mukaisakayama, and Kiridachigoe, please use the Ogawadake: Tenyabo trailhead (road subsidence, many falling rocks, rough road).

〈Tsutsujigahara Morning Walk Tour Begins!〉 We are entering the season when Ezo iso azalea is in full bloom. Would you like to stroll across Tsutsujigahara, which connects Kawayu Onsen and Mt. Io? The “Tsutsujigahara Morning Walk Tour,” where you can observe Ezo iso azalea at its peak, is starting soon! Because the course departs from Kawayu Onsen, you can take the walk in the morning after staying in the hot spring town. ＜Tsutsujigahara Nature Trail Walk Information＞ ■Period: June 1, 2025–June 30, 2025 ■Time: Every morning at 6:00 AM (the full route takes about one hour) Gather at 5:55 AM, depart at 6:00 AM※Canceled in case of rain ■Participation Fee: 500 yen for elementary school students and older (infants free) ■Meeting Point: In front of Taiho Sumo Memorial Museum ■How to Apply: By email to kawayu.unkyo★gmail.com (replace ★ with @) by 7:00 PM the day before, stating ① name of the representative ② number of participants ③ contact phone number ④ name of the accommodation where you will be staying. If you cannot send an email, please call the Kawayu Onsen Regional Management Association office at 015-486-9181. [ Notes ] ・This tour starts at Kawayu Onsen and involves walking approximately 3 km to Mt. Io (return from Mt. Io will be by vehicle). ・Please wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing that allow easy movement. ・The tour will be canceled in case of rain. We will notify all applicants if the tour is canceled. ・Depending on the flowering status of the iso azalea, the details above may change or the tour may be canceled. ■Organizer: Kawayu Onsen Regional Management Association, Akan-Mashu National Park ■Inquiries: (Office) 015-486-9181 ※Located inside Kawayu Onsen Guesthouse NOMY https://masyuko.or.jp/news/tutujisansakustart/...

Thank you to everyone who visited Nagawa Town over Golden Week! 😍 At Nagawa Cycle (E-bike), guests experienced the rich nature around Utsukushigahara, Fudotaki Falls, and Furumachi. The green season is just getting started! Why not enjoy a special nature experience in Nagawa Town? 😮🚵‍♂️⛺🌄 Utsukushigahara as seen from the Mihune Grand Observatory The Japanese Alps as seen from the Mihune Grand Observatory

I visited Fudo Falls in Nagawa Town! As I climbed the mountain path where wild cherry blossoms fluttered down, huge rocks that hinted at the presence of the waterfall appeared. When I began to hear the sound of water cascading down... That spot felt like a different world...

〈Hokkaido East Trail〉 The Hokkaido East Trail, a long-distance route linking three national parks and local towns, opened in October 2024 and stretches roughly 410 km from Kushiro to Rausu, running north to south through eastern Hokkaido. This trail is highly recommended for the coming season, so here is a brief introduction. For more details, please see Teshikaga Navi. *When embarking on the trail, make sure to prepare thoroughly in advance.* https://masyuko.or.jp/enjoy/dototrail/...

The mountain opening for MtSobosan was held on May 3, 2025. A famed peak representing Kyushu and selected as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains, many climbers enjoyed the trails that day. The akebono azalea was also in full, beautiful bloom. The climb was very strenuous, but the view from the summit is spectacular. From now on you can also enjoy fresh green foliage, so please enjoy your hike safely. MtSobosan has many hard routes, so prepare plenty of gear and food and prioritize safety when climbing. ■■During climbs ●Prepare plenty of gear and food and prioritize safety when climbing. ●MtSobosan and MtKatamukiyama are home to many valuable alpine plants. To protect nature, please do not pick or take them. ■■MtSobosan Straddling Oita Prefecture and Miyazaki Prefecture, it is a representative Kyushu peak selected as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains. Its elevation is 1,756 m. Unlike Aso and Kuju, it is an older volcano, which has formed deep valleys and steep ridges. You can enjoy how vegetation changes with elevation. ■■■Access to central Bungoono City■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from beppu station in Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing tourism and recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

On April 29, 2025, the mountain-opening ceremony was held on Mt. Katamuki. Many climbers visited Mt. Katamuki that day. Akebono azaleas are now in bloom, and their pink petals are beautiful. The fresh green season is coming, so please enjoy hiking safely. ■■When climbing ●Prepare sufficient gear and food for your hike, and put safety first. ●Mt. Sobo and Mt. Katamuki host many precious alpine plants. To protect nature, please do not pick or take them home. ■■Mt. Katamuki A famous peak rising to 1,605 m, often mentioned alongside Mt. Sobo. Steep vertical cliffs develop around the summit, and the northward ridge features stunning rock peaks such as Maekubi, Kichisaku Otoshi, Futatsubozu, and Mitsubozu. On both sides stand towering rearward rock peaks, creating an impressive landscape. ■■■Access to central Bungo Ono City■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Tourism and recommended spots in Kyushu, Oita Prefecture, Bungo Ono City ■■■■■■■■■■■■

This is the Shinshu Suzaka Tourism Association. In the Garyu Park of the 100 best cherry blossom viewing spots Yellow-flowered cherry blossoms are in Best time to visit. Pink cherry blossoms are familiar, Someiyoshino, Oshima Yamazakura, etc. When the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the yellow cherry blossoms bloom. Turmeric, Gyoiko, found in Toyooka, Suzaka City, Sonosato Kizakura, etc., You can see yellow-flowered cherry blossoms. Garyu Park also has several walking courses. Climb Mt. Garyu (Elevation 471m), In the Northern Alps, Five Mountains of Northern Shinshu, While looking at the yellow cherry blossoms and the mountains leisurely, Enjoy the fresh greenery of Garyu Park. The pink cherry blossoms, Kanzan, and Yaebenishidale are in full bloom. Garyu Park Management Office (Suzaka City Zoo) Nagano, Suzaka City, Garyu 2-4-8 📞026-245-1770 About 25 minutes walk from Nagano Electric Railway Suzaka Station

Kikuchi Gorge: a breathtaking retreat of fresh verdant beauty Kikuchi Gorge, a signature attraction of Kikuchi City in Kumamoto Prefecture, is a stunning canyon chosen as one of Japan’s Top 100 Forest Bathing Sites, Top 100 Famous Waters, and Top 100 Waterfalls. About 17 km east of central Kikuchi, it lies on the northwestern slopes of the Aso outer rim at elevations between 500 m and 800 m, spanning a vast 1,193 hectares of peaceful woodland. A cobalt-blue stream so clear that the trees reflect on its surface runs through the gorge. The average water temperature stays around 14°C year-round. On bright blue-sky days the water turns an even deeper blue as sunlight filters through the trees, creating a beautiful scene. In May the contrast between fresh green leaves, the sky, and the stream is especially striking. You can hear the gentle flow of the river and birdsong, and see many wildflowers in bloom. Well-maintained trails run through the gorge, with clear signs to guide you, so you can take a relaxed walk through the primeval forest. The gorge also features many waterfalls, including Shijusanman Falls, Reimei Falls, and Ryugafuchi, all selected among Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls. Be sure to find your favorite. Rest facilities with a souvenir corner sell items such as coffee made with the gorge’s delicious water, allowing you to unwind while overlooking the canyon. In spring you can feel new life in the fresh green leaves after winter. Summer makes the gorge an ideal cool retreat, often described as a natural air conditioner with its crisp, cool air. Autumn brings colorful foliage, and winter offers a clear, bracing atmosphere. Please experience Kikuchi Gorge through all four seasons. ■ About Kikuchi Gorge ■ 〇 Open season: April 1–November 30 (typical) 〇 Hours: 8:30–17:00 〇 Maintenance cooperation fee: 300 yen per person for high school students and older ※ The receipt for the cooperation fee includes a 200-yen discount voucher usable at Kikuchi Onsen day-use baths. Parking First parking lot: approx. 80 spaces / 7 large vehicle spaces Second parking lot: approx. 45 spaces (open during busy periods only) Central parking lot: approx. 80 spaces (open during busy periods only) A free shuttle bus operates from the central parking lot during Golden Week and other busy periods. Parking fees Standard car: 300 yen Motorbike: 200 yen Microbus: 1,000 yen Large vehicle: 2,000 yen Kikuchi Sightseeing Shared Taxi A reservation-based shared sightseeing taxi links major Kikuchi City attractions (including Kikuchi Gorge) with the city center. It operates on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, substitute holidays, and Golden Week. Service is suspended during the New Year holidays (December 29–January 3). Take a deep breath at Kikuchi Gorge. Bask in negative ions and enjoy a leisurely moment in nature.

We would like to inform you about bus services on Prefectural Road Yarigatake-Yamura Line (commonly called Nakabusa Line), which leads to the Nakabusa Trailhead. Due to a shoulder collapse that occurred on Monday, April 14, 2025, bus operations to Nakabusa Onsen will change; please be aware of this change. Beyond the Miyagi Gate, the Nakabusa Line is closed to all vehicles except those with permits. The collapsed section is closed to vehicle traffic, so passage will be on foot; please walk with great care. Details about regular bus operations are posted on the Azumino City Tourism Association’s official website; please check there for more information. https://azumino-e-tabi.net/archives/2474... Please check the latest information.

Komadeike Campground is OPEN 👏 Komadeike Campground, nestled in the sublime natural beauty of Yachiho Kogen, opened for the 2025 season on Friday, April 18th, 2025! Komadeike Campground is a site embraced by what is said to be Japan’s finest birch forest, where people of all ages can enjoy truly comfortable, memorable moments. Choose from five free-site settings around the pond or along the stream, or relax in the spacious auto sites that offer sunny or shaded options. We also offer bungalows and cottages, plus a full lineup of day-trip activities. "We want you to enjoy a peaceful outdoor life with the people who matter most." This is the concept and heartfelt wish of Komadeike Campground. Come and visit us!

Akebono azalea Blooming from mid-April and, if the season is long, into early May, the Akebono azalea is a very large deciduous broadleaf shrub in the rhododendron family that grows on rocky cliffs above 1,000 meters. Among high-mountain azaleas, it is the earliest to bloom. It grows wild in clusters near the west trailhead of MtMorotsukayama, and the sight of vivid pink flowers carpeting the spring mountains is spectacular. The Akebono azalea colony on MtMorotsukayama is located about a five-minute climb above the west trailhead torii gate⛩️. Because you can enjoy it without a full-scale climb, many people from around Kyushu visit to see this nature🍃. The Akebono azaleas on MtMorotsukayama are coming into their best viewing period! Everyone, please come and enjoy the flowers😊

To Shintoku Shrine Mountain. I went to check on the cherry blossoms. The buds are plump and their color is deepening. However, it looks like they will not bloom for a while yet. There’s an event at Shintoku Shrine Mountain this weekend, but it may not be possible to hold it amid cherry blossoms. The cherry blossoms may still be some way off, but azaleas and ezō-engosaku (Corydalis japonica) are already giving a hint of spring’s arrival. Shintoku Shrine Mountain is gradually taking on spring’s colors. If you’re nearby, come and observe the wildflowers and the cherry blossom progress.💁‍♀️ Also, the Shintoku Shrine Mountain Spring Festival will be held on Sunday, April 27th, so please come and join us.🌸 Welcome to Shintoku Town #welcomeshintoku Come back to Shintoku Town To Shintoku Shrine Mountain. I went to see the cherry blossoms. The buds are plump and the color is getting deeper. However, it seems that they will not bloom for a while yet. There is an event at Shintoku Shrine Mountain this weekend, but it may not be possible to attend among the cherry blossoms. The cherry blossoms may still be a while away, but the azaleas and Corydalis japonica give us a taste of the arrival of spring a little earlier. Shintoku Shrine Mountain is gradually taking on spring patterns. If you are in the area, please come and observe the wildflowers and the cherry blossoms in bloom. Also, the Shintoku Shrine Mountain Spring Festival will be held on Sunday, April 27th, so please come and visit. Welcome to Shintoku Town #welcomeshintoku Have a nice day, Shintoku Town #Hokkaido #Hokkaido Gourmet #Hokkaido Sightseeing #hokkaido #Tokachi #Tokachi (Tokachi) #Tokachi Sightseeing #Tokachi Gourmet #Shintoku Town #Shintoku #Soba Town Shintoku Town #Jinja-yama #Welcome to Shintoku Town #Come back to Shintoku Town #hokkaido #hokkaido_lovers #hokkaido_love #ilovehokkaido #hokkaidotrip #hokkaidolikers #hokkaidolove #hokkaidosgram #hokkaidofood #hokkaidotravel #tokachi #shintoku #welcomeshintoku

Mt. Odasshu “Tokachi is clear; the Hidaka Mountain Range looks especially beautiful this season with snow still clinging to its peaks.” Sitting at the farthest end of the Hidaka Range on its northern side, Mt. Odasshu stands as a symbol of Shintoku Town. The lowlands have thawed, but the mountains still hold much snow. When the surrounding fields were entirely white, we longed for spring because snow removal was necessary, yet now that time feels nostalgic—the pure, cold whiteness of the snow lingers in memory. This morning the cold eased and it warmed up, reaching nearly 18°C around noon. We are not quite in the warm embrace of spring, but the changing winds and views make the season’s arrival palpable. Welcome to Shintoku Town #welcomeshintoku Welcome home to Shintoku Town #Hokkaido #Tokachi #Shintoku Town #Shintoku Ranger #Shintoku Town Tourism Association #Hidaka Mountain Range #Mt. Odasshu #Tokachi sunny day #remaining snow #landscape The Tokachi is clear, and the snowy landscape of the Hidaka Mountains is very beautiful in this season. #Hokkaido #Tokachi #Shintoku Town #shintoku #Shintoku Town Tourism Association #Hidaka Mountains #Tokachi sunny day #remaining snow #landscape #welcomeshintoku

Access You can reach Nagiso town mainly by JR train, local bus, or taxi. Here is information about timetables and how to ride the buses 🚌✨ You can also check the access page on the official website! Search for "Nagiso Town Tourism Association" or "Burari Nagiso" 🔍 ▶︎ Bus ・Services are infrequent, so please check the times in advance ⚠️ ・How to ride is shown from image 7 onwards ・Bus tickets are sold at the Tsumago tourist information center (for Tsumago–Magome or within the town only) ・You can pay the driver in cash when getting off (2000-yen, 5000-yen and 10,000-yen bills are not accepted) ・To avoid congestion when getting off, please buy tickets in advance whenever possible 🎫 ▶︎ Taxi Nagiso Sightseeing Taxi 🚕 Office: Tsumago First Parking Lot Hours: 7:00–19:00 (may change in winter) ※ Taxis are usually stationed at Nagiso Station ※ Outside business hours, please reserve in advance ※ During busy times it may be hard to arrange a taxi immediately, so allow plenty of time to travel here ▶︎ JR Nagiso Station — Ticket Office 🎫 Hours: 7:50–16:05 Closed: 11:10–11:30, 12:35–13:15 ※ IC cards are not supported ※ Outside business hours, board without a ticket and pay at your destination station (please take a numbered boarding ticket when boarding) ※ Credit cards are not accepted 💳❌ ※ There is only one ticket window, so it becomes very crowded in the evening. We recommend buying tickets during the quieter morning hours or in advance at another station ※ Nakatsugawa Station accepts credit card payments ※ IC cards can be used between Nakatsugawa Station and Nagoya Station ▶︎ JR Nagiso Station — Tourist Information Hours: 8:00–17:00 Closed: 11:10–11:30, 12:35–13:15 If you need help, please feel free to drop by ✨

📍Tenpaku Park (Tenpaku Kōen) Mitsuba azalea and Oshima cherry: Peak viewing Flowering peach: Buds to 50% open 📍Tsumago inn (Tsumago-juku) Cherry blossoms: Beginning to fall The weather has been fine since this morning☀️ The evening regional buses are very crowded with guests who went hiking. Buses and trains (JR Nagiso Station) do not accept IC cards or credit cards. Please purchase tickets in advance or try to travel outside peak times to help avoid congestion.

The mountain climbing season has arrived. Kuranodake, located in Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, offers trails for beginners through advanced hikers. It is a mountain that even small children can enjoy. From the summit you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama, and a big appeal is that you can easily challenge yourself starting from the 9th station. The elevation is 1,118 m. It was selected as one of the Top 100 Walking Trails in Japan. It sits at the western end of the Aso outer rim, and the name comes from its saddle-like shape. Following the northeast ridge of Kuranodake leads to peaks such as Mount Tsumushi (1,064 m), and some hikers aim for them from Kuranodake’s summit. The mountain hosts many alpine plants and bird species. There are several routes up Kuranodake; for intermediate and advanced hikers there are the Forest Course and the Panorama Course. Beginners can drive up to the 9th station and start from the East Trailhead Course. With routes of varying difficulty, many families hike together. From the summit you can see the Kuju Mountain Range, the Five Peaks of Aso, Mt. Kimpō, and Unzen. Many people bring a packed lunch or coffee to enjoy on the hike. Before hiking, pick up maps and information at Shiki no Sato in Asahishi-Fumoto, Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, located at the trail entrance, and why not give it a try?

Hello everyone, this is Shosenkyo Jewelry Town. The cherry blossom season has finally arrived in Shosenkyo🌸 Cherry trees along the gorge and in the tourist areas are starting to bloom, and many visitors are coming to enjoy hanami. On clear days you can admire the gorge’s majestic scenery alongside the beautiful cherry blossoms. Please spend a soothing moment in nature😊 At Kanazakura Shrine, located in the upper part of Shosenkyo, the sacred tree known as the ukonzakura typically reaches full bloom from late April through early May. Jewelry Town Shosenkyo is also a popular spot for those who love natural stones and power stones. It’s the perfect season for a spring drive or day trip, so please stop by✨

Hello everyone, this is the Shosenkyo Gorge Tourism Association. Spring is beginning to make itself felt at Shosenkyo Gorge🌸 Along the promenade, mitsuba azalea are starting to bloom here and there💕 Many buds still remain, so the best viewing is likely to come soon☺️ With each step you can sense buds swelling and changing color, making this a season to enjoy the arrival of spring with your whole body🌿 The photo shows the view from near the promenade rest area📸 The clear stream and the pink azaleas create a lovely contrast that makes you pause in admiration✨ The path remains easy to walk, so take a leisurely stroll, snap photos, feel the spring breeze, and enjoy the day in whatever way suits you☺️

2025 Shinshu Sakuhomachi Tourism Photo Contest Announcement! We are holding the "2025 Shinshu Sakuhomachi Tourism Photo Contest" again this year! 🌳 We are accepting photos that can be used for tourism posters, pamphlets, and similar materials. The application period is Tuesday, April 1, 2025 to Sunday, August 31, 2025. We look forward to your submissions! For details and the entry form, please visit the Sakuhomachi Tourism Association official website or see the second image. The forms are also available at the Roadside Station Yachiho Kogen Visitor Center, so feel free to stop by ✨