Chinda Falls ❚ Oita Bungo-Ono Geopark Notice of Reopening of Chinda Falls Friendship Park Due to construction, Chinda Falls Friendship Park had been completely off-limits for a while. Now that the surrounding construction has been successfully completed, access to the park and the popular "Old Power Station Ruins" is now available. Thank you very much to everyone who understood and cooperated during the construction period. 【Location】Yata, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture 【Access】About 5 minutes by car from Bungo-Kiyokawa Station 【Parking】Available ■■■Access to the center of Bungoono City■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing recommended tourist spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Deaibashi and Todorokibashi ❚ Oita Bungoono Geopark Located in Kiyokawamachi, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, are Deaibashi and Todorokibashi. This area boasts the largest and second-largest arch spans of stone bridges in Japan, making it a very precious location. Todorokibashi measures 32.1 meters, making it the largest in Japan, while Deaibashi measures 29.3 meters, ranking second. Deaibashi was completed in 1924, built by the local residents as an important road connecting the community. Todorokibashi was completed in 1934, historically constructed as a bridge for a forest railway transporting timber. Furthermore, these two bridges have been recognized as Civil Engineering Heritage by the Japan Society of Civil Engineers for the fiscal year 2025, drawing renewed attention as historically valuable landscapes. You can drive close to the area, and Todorokibashi is still used as a road bridge. In contrast, Deaibashi is a pedestrian bridge, allowing visitors to enjoy its unique charm on foot. The Okudake River flowing beneath the bridge and the surrounding columnar jointing landscape are also appealing features. A place where you can encounter the beauty of both history and nature. Why not take your time to visit? 【Location】Yada, Kiyokawamachi, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture 【Access】About 50 minutes by car from Oita Mera IC About 5 minutes by car from JR Bungokiyokawa Station 【Parking】Available ■■■Access to the center of Bungoono City■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing recommended spots for tourism in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Hoshino Resort Tomamu is home to Unkai Terrace. As a popular tourist spot, it attracts travelers from all over the country and the world during the summer vacation period. Until last year, it was common to see long lines starting from midnight in front of the lift station, and even after the gondola service began, people often had to wait over an hour to board. This season, the gondola has switched to a reservation system starting from the evening before, allowing guests to ride with almost no waiting time, making it significantly easier. However, since the sea of clouds is a natural phenomenon, you won't know if you can see it unless you actually go to the site at dawn. That's why the excitement when the sea of clouds is visible is so profound; everyone getting off the gondola was expressing their amazement. At this terrace, located over 1,000 meters above sea level, the temperature is about 6°C lower than at sea level. It gets quite chilly in the early morning, so dressing warmly is essential.

💠After the Hydrangea Festival💠 This year, we have floated hydrangeas pruned from Shimoda Park in the monument aquarium located in the rotary of Izukyu Shimoda Station.✨ Today (July 3rd), we worked in the morning, creating a vibrant space where colorful hydrangeas decorate the water's surface.🫧💎 This year's exhibition is limited to six days from July 3rd (Friday) to 5th (Sunday) and from July 10th (Friday) to 12th (Sunday)! Although the hydrangea festival has ended, you can still enjoy the hydrangeas of Shimoda for a little longer.😌 If you are using Izukyu Shimoda Station, please take a moment to stop by and see it. *Please note that the content may change or be canceled without notice due to weather or other circumstances. *Pruning and collecting plants in Shimoda Park is only conducted by authorized personnel. You are not allowed to cut or take plants from the park. *There is vehicle traffic in the rotary. Please ensure your safety while taking photos or visiting.

Sugao Stone Buddhas ❚ Oita Bungoono Geopark The Sugao Stone Buddhas are located in Mie Town, Bungoono City. The "Sugao Stone Buddhas" are five stone statues believed to have been created in the late Heian period. When viewed up close, their delicate and beautiful presence is breathtaking. The highlight is the remaining red color, which conveys the vividness of the past to the present, evoking a sense of historical romance. In stark contrast to the usual calm atmosphere, the "Sugao Stone Buddha Fire Festival" heats up the summer nights of Bungoono. After a unique "Rooster Imitation Contest" based on local legends brings smiles to the venue, an impressive "Torch Throwing" event takes place, inviting participants into a fantastical and vibrant world, quite different from the usual serene scenery. 【Location】466 Asase, Mie Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture 【Access】About 40 minutes by car from Oita Mera IC About 10 minutes by car from JR Sugao Station ■■■Access to Bungoono City Center■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing tourist attractions and recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

The Lake Mashu SKY Cruise will set sail again this year! Would you like to take a look at Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo from above? The popular "Lake Mashu SKY Cruise" will operate again this year. It will run from Saturday, August 8, 2026, to Wednesday, August 19, 2026, from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. (On the last day, August 19, it will finish at 3 PM.) The reservation period is from July 13 to August 19, with reception hours from 9 AM to 5 PM. Same-day applications are also welcome. You can also take aerial photographs, capturing the vast nature of Teshikaga from places you usually can't see! This is a great opportunity for photographers to enjoy as well. Please take advantage of this special opportunity. For applications and inquiries 011-781-1247 https://www.masyuko.or.jp/news/skycruise_2026/...

A special view of the sea in Japan that appears only in summer. In Higashi-Izu, Kawana, there is a special diving spot that can only be accessed during the summer. Its name is "Ubako Coral." Just three minutes from the port. The time spent heading out to sea on a small boat is also part of the joy of the journey. Once you enter the water, schools of fish greet you. Fish swimming around the reef transform the ocean view in every direction. Vibrant soft corals spread out, allowing you to not only watch the fish but also to slowly enjoy Japan's rich sea. Ubako Coral is available only until the end of August each year. It is a special view of the sea in Japan that you can encounter only in summer. There are still lesser-known seas in Japan. Why not encounter such views on your next trip?

This photo captures the peaceful beauty of Japan’s hidden gem — where the gentle breeze moves across the clear blue water, green forests surround the lake, and snow-capped mountains rise quietly in the background. A perfect moment where early summer and winter meet in harmony.

Fukoji Temple's Hydrangeas ❚ Blooming Status as of June 22, 2026 Fukoji Temple is located in Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. It is also famous as a sightseeing spot for hydrangeas. Currently, the hydrangeas are in full bloom. We will keep you updated on the blooming status. 【Location】Upper Ozuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture 【Access】About 10 minutes by car from JR Asaji Station 【Parking】Available (free) 【Restroom】Available ❚ Fukoji Temple The cliff-carved Buddha on the temple grounds stands about 11 meters tall, including its pedestal, making it one of the largest cliff-carved Buddhas in Japan. The central figure is Fudo Myoo (the Immovable Wisdom King). Fudo Myoo is typically depicted with an angry expression, but this cliff-carved Buddha has developed a round and gentle appearance over the years of exposure to the elements. Despite its large size, Fudo Myoo has a very approachable presence. Fukoji Temple is also known as "Hydrangea Temple" due to the numerous hydrangeas planted there. During the rainy season, visitors can enjoy the sight of many hydrangea flowers alongside the cliff-carved Buddha. The hydrangeas are cared for by the temple and the local community. ■■■ Access to the Center of Bungoono City ■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing recommended sightseeing spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

[June 22 📍Shimoda Park] We have updated the hydrangea blooming status 💠✨ The hydrangeas at Shimoda Park have reached their peak season✨! Hydrangeas are blooming everywhere you look 👀 The hydrangea festival is ongoing until June 30th 💠 Please enjoy this breathtaking view while you can 😌 https://www.shimoda-city.info/post/20260622...

This is the Taushubetsu River Bridge in Kamishihoro Town, Hokkaido. It has a unique presence reminiscent of an ancient ruin. In the past, it was accessible freely, but now the gates are closed. You need to either reserve a key from the roadside station or join a tour from places like the Higashitaisetsu Nature Guide Centre to visit. You can park your car before the forest road gate and walk or bike there, but it's a rough 4-kilometer gravel road. Also, it's out of mobile service range, so there’s no way to contact anyone in case of trouble. Additionally, this area is a habitat for brown bears, so all actions are at your own risk. Every year, the bridge sinks into the lake after autumn and freezes in mid-winter, leading to weathering and collapse in various places. Some parts also crumbled during the spring earthquake. It won't be long before it can no longer maintain its complete arch.

Enoshima Okutsumiya Hanakairō Early morning in Enoshima. This is Okutsumiya Hanakairō, located in the innermost area of Enoshima. A pleasant sea breeze swayed the flowers, and sunlight began to filter through the still-dark forest. The pure white hydrangeas were illuminated by the spotlight, swaying and shining like the stars of the flower corridor.

Fukoji Temple's Hydrangeas ❚ Blooming Status as of June 17, 2026 Fukoji Temple, located in Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, is also famous as a tourist spot for hydrangeas. Currently, the hydrangeas are in full bloom. Some of the early-blooming flowers have started to wilt a bit. We will keep you updated on the blooming status. 【Location】Upper Oozuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture 【Access】About a 10-minute drive from JR Asaji Station 【Parking】Available (free) 【Restroom】Available ❚ Fukoji Temple The rock-carved Buddha in the temple grounds is approximately 11 meters tall, including its pedestal, making it one of the largest rock-carved Buddhas in Japan. The central figure is Fudo Myoo (Fudo Myo-o). Fudo Myoo is depicted with an angry expression, but this rock-carved Buddha has weathered the elements for many years and now has a round, gentle face. Although it is a large Fudo Myoo, it has a very friendly appearance. Fukoji Temple is also known as "Hydrangea Temple" due to the numerous hydrangeas planted there. During the rainy season, you can see many blooming hydrangeas alongside the rock-carved Buddha. The hydrangeas are cared for by the temple and the local community. ■■■ Access to the Center of 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 and 20-minute drive from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour and 20-minute drive from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Tourism and Recommended Spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

【June 15📍Shimoda Park】 We have updated the hydrangea blooming status💠 Currently, the hydrangeas in the park are in full bloom! Today (6/15), the weather improved in the afternoon, making the hydrangeas even more beautiful🌿✨ Hydrangeas look great in natural light😌 You can find the latest blooming status and scenes from the park on our blog👇 https://www.shimoda-city.info/post/20260615...

Introduction to Tourist Attractions ❚ Karasudake Enkei Bunsui Located in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Karasudake Enkei Bunsui is a facility that conveys the history of water that has supported local life. The mountainous area of Ogata Town was once a place struggling to secure water. To solve this issue, a channel called "Haseoiro," approximately 22 kilometers long, was developed over many years. Karasudake Enkei Bunsui was established along this channel to fairly distribute essential water to fields and farms. Its unique circular structure is designed to divide water into specific ratios for different regions. This place not only offers beautiful scenery but also showcases the system that has supported people's lives and agriculture, making it a major highlight. *Water flows from June to about September each year. There is no water flow during other times, so please be cautious when planning your visit. Location: Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Kobara ■■Access from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture to the center of Bungoono City■■■ Approximately 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture Approximately 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing recommended tourist spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

From the summit of Mount Wagakuni, a breathtaking morning scene unfolds over Ibaraki. A sea of clouds completely blankets the towns below, creating a dreamlike landscape where the mountains appear to float above the sky. But if you look closely at the far right of the frame, you might notice a giant figure standing quietly above the clouds — and if I’m not mistaken, that silhouette is the famous Ushiku Daibutsu, watching over the horizon from afar. This is a hidden gem. Very few people know about this place. After I saw it I was astonished. Highly recommended hidden gem.

Breathless from the climb, Miyama Kirishima adorns the early summer landscape of the Mt. Kuju Range. It feels so good! Location: Hoshiozaki, Kusu District, Oita Prefecture

In the sweltering heat of the rainy season, I was drawn down into the valley by the sound of the clear stream and a cool breeze. Upon reaching the valley floor, I found myself in another world! Before me lay a fantastical landscape! At the information center at the valley entrance, I was informed that "Due to fallen trees and safety concerns, access to the upstream area leading to the Chockstone is currently prohibited." It was a bit disappointing, but there's always next time!! Location: Oita Prefecture, Yufu City

Nestled along the rugged coastline of Otaru, Hokkaido, stands the remarkable Sea Lion Rock, a lesser-known gem that remains largely undiscovered by international visitors. In winter, the surrounding waters become a gathering place for hundreds of Steller sea lions, creating a spectacular wildlife scene against the dramatic backdrop of the Sea of Japan. As the seasons change, summer brings flocks of black-tailed gulls that fill the skies and cliffs with life. Rising behind this iconic rock formation is the striking red-and-white Shukutsu Observatory, visible prominently above the coastline and extending toward the vast Sea of Japan. Together, the observatory, the wildlife, and the rugged seascape create a breathtaking panorama that captures the essence of northern Japan's natural beauty. While Otaru is often celebrated for its canals and historic streets, this hidden coastal viewpoint offers a different perspective—one where nature, history, and scenery converge.

[June 9] We have updated the hydrangea blooming status💠✨ Currently, they are 50% in bloom, but they will soon reach their peak! We are featuring the current state of the garden and the latest blooming status on our blog🫧 Please take a look for your outing reference. https://www.shimoda-city.info/post/20260609...

Crossing the Kanmon Straits from Mojiko, where the morning sun shines, to Shimonoseki A morning view of crossing the Kanmon Straits from Mojiko to Shimonoseki on a 5-minute boat ride Photo taken: April 3, 2026 Equipment: SONY α7II + FE24-240 Receiving the morning sun from behind Mojiko, overlooking the city of Karato in Shimonoseki across the strait A morning crossing of the Kanmon Straits on the Kanmon Ferry for 5 minutes The silhouette of the city of Mojiko recedes beyond the wake of the boat.

(2026-05-30) Chigasaki – Night view of bioluminescent plankton on the beach I received information about a massive red tide in Sagami Bay for the first time in nine years On Saturday, I took a whirlwind tour from Tokyo I appreciate my friend who kindly joined me despite the last-minute invitation m(__)m In the evening I passed through Zushi → Yuigahama → Shichirigahama → Enoshima → Chigasaki → Atami but there was no red tide (;'∀') Reluctantly, while trying to return to Tokyo via the reverse route I passed through Chigasaki and discovered a post about the bioluminescent plankton right there Amidst the confusion, I somehow found a parking lot and managed to take some photos (●´ω｀●) There were only one or two of these posts to find but already a huge number of people were flocking to the beach Everyone noticed it pretty quickly (;'∀') Although the photos aren't enough to say I've cleared the backlog of my life's captures I'm just glad it didn't end without getting any shots (〃´o｀)=3

Moji Port, where the remnants of the day dye the evening sky Photo taken: May 30, 2026 Equipment: SONY α7II + Sigma 20–200mm The silhouette of Mojiko city under the twilight sky remnants of the day twilight over Mojiko town

We visited Ogijima, an island with nature and art in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, as a family and took a walk to the edge of the island (the walking ark). It was a hot day, making the walk challenging, but we had a great time.

Meeting the sea, a special day spent at the Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival in Shonan, Japan 🎐 About an hour by train from Tokyo. In Hiratsuka, located in Kanagawa Prefecture's Shonan area, the entire town is adorned with vibrant Tanabata decorations every summer. The "Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival." Known as one of Japan's three major Tanabata festivals, it is a summer tradition. Giant Tanabata decorations fill the streets. People in yukata. The summer town transitioning from dusk to night. A nostalgic atmosphere flows, reminiscent of a scene from a movie. However, Hiratsuka's charm isn't just about the festival. Close by, there is a beautiful sea. A crystal-clear blue ocean that feels far removed from the Tokyo suburbs. Colorful fish. Soft corals gently swaying. In the morning, dive into the world of the sea. And from the evening, immerse yourself in a Japanese summer festival. This is the allure of the Shonan area, where you can spend such a special day. Diving is not just about entering the water. It’s about feeling the local atmosphere, walking through the town, meeting people, and experiencing the seasons of Japan. The time that follows the sea becomes an important memory of the journey. This year's "Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival" is scheduled to be held from July 3rd to 5th. Discover another side of Japan that you won't find just by sightseeing in Tokyo. Feel the Japanese summer that spreads beyond the sea. 🌈Hokule'a Shonan offers small-group diving tours in the ocean near Tokyo. Beginners and solo participants are welcome. English support is also available. We hope you enjoy not just the sea, but a special day spent in Japan. 【Related Keywords】 Diving near Tokyo / Kanagawa Diving / Shonan Diving / Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival / Tokyo Day Trip / Hidden Japan / Dive Near Tokyo / Japan Summer Festival / Japanese Ocean Experience / Tokyo Day Trip Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival Photo provided by the Hiratsuka City Tourism Association.

Hakusan River Fireflies ❚ Status of Fireflies as of May 29, 2026 Every year, many visitors come to Hakusan River to see the fireflies. Fireflies are flying around Hakusan River. They can also be seen near the Inazumi Water Cave and Hoge Rock. They are expected to be at their best from this weekend into next week. Since low temperatures can lead to fewer fireflies, it's a good idea to aim for temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius. 【Location】Mie Town, Bungoono City ■■Access to the center of Bungoono City from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing recommended spots for tourism in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

At the end of the gently winding path, a view that seems to connect with the sky unfolds at Mt. Oomuro. Each step taken while holding hands feels as if you are getting closer to the sky. It is a hidden gem of breathtaking scenery that is still not widely known, where your heart can truly unwind.

In the corridor of Aobayuen, seasonal flowers trapped in transparent spheres shimmer under the summer light. A moment where I couldn't help but stop my feet in front of the colorful world that unfolds above. This captures the fantastical "hidden summer scenery" that exists right beside our everyday lives.

Hirasawa, Shizuoka Prefecture. This is a quiet sea in Japan that can be visited as a day trip from Tokyo. From late spring to early summer, a special scenery appears in this sea. A forest of seaweed extending to the water's surface. A gently swaying green world. Soft light filtering through. It feels as if a forest is spreading underwater. As you quietly swim between the seaweeds, small blue fish appear. In the shadows of the rocks, small lives grow in the spring sea. These seaweed areas are called "moba" in Japan. They are important places where many fish and marine creatures live. From spring to early summer, it is also the spawning season for the bigfin reef squid. The changing scenery of the sea with each season is one of the charms of Japan's waters. The sea of Hirasawa is a bit different from the tropical seas of Okinawa. It lacks flamboyance. However, it possesses a quiet beauty. Light filtering through the seaweed. A time when only the sound of waves can be heard. The slowly flowing underwater scenery. You can feel the gentle air typical of Japan's nature. At Hokule'a Shonan, we offer guidance centered around the sea of Kanagawa and Izu, which can be enjoyed as a day trip from the Tokyo area. With a small group, even beginners can feel at ease. English support is also available. Experience the time of Japan's sea that cannot be encountered just by visiting tourist spots. It is recommended for those looking for "an experience in Japan that is more than just diving." Related Keywords: Hirasawa Diving / Nishi-Izu Diving / Izu Diving / Diving Near Tokyo / Japan Diving / Dive Near Tokyo / Japan Diving / Hidden Japan / Japanese Ocean Experience / Tokyo Day Trip

The large-flowered bellflower at Bansai Fureai no Mori is in full bloom! The large-flowered bellflower is blooming in the "Fureai no Mori" that spreads along the way from Bansai Onsen to Horokayantou. Be sure to visit this natural flower field where you can feel the arrival of spring! For tourist information about Taiki Town, click here! https://visit-taiki.hokkaido.jp//