【Nagiso Town】May dolls on display At the free rest area "Fureaikan" in Tsumago juku, May dolls are on display. Visiting the site is free and will last until Wednesday, June 5. Please come and visit us! For details, please visit the official website of Tsumago juku. Inquiries: Tsumagoro Tourist Information Center TEL: 0264-57-3123

The 55th Kiso Lacquerware Festival Narai Juku Festival On Saturday, June 8 and Sunday, June 9, the 55th Kiso Lacquerware Festival Narai Juku Festival will be held. 【Kiso Lacquerware Festival】A large lacquerware market held once a year in Kiso Hirasawa. There are about 100 shops lined up in the townscape, and in addition to masterpieces and gastronomical delicacies that are filled with the spirit of craftsmen, products that only appear on this day and storefronts are lined up. 【Narai Juku Festival】The main event of the Shukuba-juku Festival is "Ocha Pot Dochu". This is a reproduction of the procession that carried tea for the Tokugawa shogun family in the Edo period from Uji, Kyoto, to Edo every year via the Nakasendo and Koshu-kaido roads. Scheduled to be held on the 9th Sun 12:00~. ♦ Event Details ・June 8 and 9: Kiso Lacquerware and Great Lacquerware Market held throughout the area ・June 8 and 9: Exhibition and sale of the Traditional Craftsmen's Association and Producers' Association Kiso Hirasawa ・June 8 Sat Naraniko Cafe Naragawa Elementary and Junior High School Lunch Room ・June 8 Sat Kimono Town Walk & Photo Contest Narai juku ・June 8 Sat Ochatsubo Dochu 12:00 ~ at Narai juku Other, Kitchen Car is also coming! There will be a traffic restriction on the day of the event, and a free shuttle bus will run between Narai Gonbeibashi ⇔Kiso Kurashi no Kogeikan. Contact: Kiso Lacquerware Festival / Narai Juku Festival Executive Committee TEL: 0263-52-0280

How do you do! This is the Kiso Tourism Federation! Kiso, Nagano Prefecture is a region in the Kiso River basin of Nagano Prefecture and consists of eight cities and towns: Nakatsugawa City, Nagiso Town, Okuwa Village, Agematsu Town, Kiso Town, Otaki Village, Kiso Village, and Shiojiri City. Located in a valley surrounded by 3,000-meter-high mountains that have been selected as a 100 Famous Mountains of Japan, it is an area where delicious air, water, and Healing space brought by Nature spread. The historic Shukuba-juku town still remains along the old Along the road and is visited by many travelers. In this article, we will introduce you to the history and highlights of the Kiso, as well as Information local Specialty Products and events. ◆History of Kiso, Nagano Kiso The Nakasendo Highway, which connected Kyoto and Edo during the Edo period, was an important highway with many people coming and going. Kiso, which is part of the Nakasendo Highway, has prospered as a transportation hub since ancient times, with many travelers and supplies coming and going. Many Shukuba-juku towns have developed and retain their faces even today, and Kisoji was designated as the first Japanese heritage site in Nagano Prefecture. At that time, 69 Shukuba were placed in the Nakasendo 540-kilometer process, of which 11 Shukuba are located in Kisoji. Nakasendo Kisoji 11 Shukuba ・Niekawa Juku ・Narai juku ・Yauhara juku ・Miyanokoshi juku ・Fukushima juku ・Agematsu juku ・Suhara-juku ・Nojiri juku ・Midono juku ・Tsumago juku ・Magome juku Even now, the cityscape of the Edo period Unfolds on Kisoji, and you can feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Edo period. ◆Introduction of tourist spots in Kiso, Nagano Kiso ◇Kiso Kaida Highlands Elevation Kaida Highlands overlooking Mt. Ontake, which stretches for 1,100 to 1,400 meters, is Unfolds with rural scenery. There are sports facilities and Hot spring facilities, and it is crowded with many tourists. At the "Kiso Horse Village" in the Highlands, you can also enjoy horseback riding and horse-drawn carriage experiences. ◇Nezame-no-Toko On the floor of Nezame-no-Toko in Agematsu town, you can see a strangely shaped granite rock that looks like a row of large boxes. It was designated as a national scenic spot in 1923 and became a Central Alps National Park in 2020. ◇Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest It is one of Japan's three most beautiful forests in Agematsu town, and there is a forest of natural Kiso Hinoki trees that are more than 300 years old. It is also the birthplace of forest bathing, where Japan's first forest bathing competition was held in 1982. ◇Ontake Lake, Shizenko Nature Lake The beautiful lake in Otaki village also offers ontake lake canoe touring and Shizenko Nature Lake nature canoe tours. Since you can see the beautiful appearance of the four seasons, it is a popular photo Spot and is visited by many tourists throughout the year. ◇Atera Canyon The emerald green clear streams of Atera Canyon in Okuwa Village are called "Atera Blue" and are a popular healing spot for girls' trips. ◆Introduction of Roadside Station in Kiso, Nagano Kiso At the Roadside Station, fresh vegetables and specialty products from the local Kiso are lined up, and you can enjoy Kiso's gourmet food. Souvenirs are also recommended! ・Roadside Station Kiso Fukushima Kiso Town, Kiso-gun, Nagano Prefecture ・Roadside Station Hiyoshi Kiso Koma Kogen Hinoyoshi, Kiso-cho, Kiso-gun, Nagano ・Roadside Station Kiso River Headwaters Village Kisomura Kiso Village, Kiso-gun, Nagano Prefecture ◆Introduction of Specialty products and crafts of Kiso, Nagano Kiso Kiso is also known for its rich specialty products nurtured by its natural environment. Matsutake mushrooms in Kiso town are famous for their high aroma and are popular as a taste of autumn. Sunki, pickled red turnip, and Maki of magnolia leaves are traditional gourmet foods in Kiso where you can enjoy their unique flavors. In addition, Kiso lacquerware is an Ancient tradition that has been handed down in the Kiso area for a long time, and the longer it is used, the warmer and luster it becomes, and the more beautiful it shines. ◆Introduction of local events and festivals in Kiso, Nagano Kiso ◇Mizunashi Shrine Festival Mikoshi portable shrine roll This festival, held every July, is a rare festivals in Japan where about 100 kan about 400 kg Mikoshi portable shrines are rolled or dropped and destroyed overnight, and is also called "One of the world's strangest festivals". ◇Kiso Yoshinaka Flag Raising Festival It is a festival registered as a Component Cultural Assets, and mourns Lord Yoshinaka, lights a fire character in the shape of a "tree" on Mt. Yamabuki, and a warrior procession parades through the town. ◆Introduction of Kiso, Nagano Prefecture Kiso, Nagano Kiso is a fascinating region for its magnificent nature and rich history. While walking along the old highways that have remained since the Edo period, you can feel the unchanging scenery that travelers must have felt at that time. We will continue to send out Information that will convey the charm of Kiso to everyone who sees COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, so Best regards!

10th Anniversary Isehara Artistic Fireworks Festival – Held in light rain; postponed in severe weather Saturday, May 18 – Held at the open field of Isehara City General Sports Park Gates open: 14:00 Fireworks launch: around 19:30 Only ticket holders may enter the open field at the General Sports Park. No free viewing areas are provided. Various sponsored tickets are on sale through Ticket Pia and other outlets. Experience the moving and memorable, creativity-filled “artistic” fireworks, including the fully synchronized music-and-fireworks “melody fireworks.” Please enjoy these features. Details: Isehara Artistic Fireworks Festival website Organizing Committee Mobile: 050-6878-1286

The 16th Rotary Fureai Festival Saturday, May 18th, 10:00–15:00 (postponed to a rainy day) At the rotary outside the south exit of Aiko-Ishida Station on the Odakyu Line The event is held to promote communication among local residents and to stimulate commerce and industry Please enjoy various stalls and stage attractions Inquiries: Naruse Revitalization Committee Tel. 0463-94-5955

The 33rd Park Greening Festival At the central plaza, Hawaiian music and the Soran dance will be performed, making this a popular event where people can grow closer to greenery and appreciate the importance of nature! Saturday, May 11, 2024 — 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Sunday, May 12, 2024 — 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM Isehara City General Sports Park (Nishitomioka 320) * Green flea market * Craft workshop using thinned wood * Distribution of saplings of the resilient sunflower and bellflower seedlings, among other offerings Concurrent events * Recycling Exhibition (Contact: Cleaning and Recycling Division 0463-94-7502) Sales of about 300 pieces of furniture repaired by the Silver Human Resources Center from items collected by the city as bulky waste, among other items * Isehara Environmental Exhibition (Contact: Environmental Measures Division 0463-94-4737) Electric vehicle test drives and eco-driving diagnostics (advance registration accepted from April 15) Hands-on craft experience corners Quiz rally (prizes available), among other activities Note: until 3:00 PM on both days * Everyday Life Exhibition (Contact: Human Rights and Public Relations Consultation Division 0463-94-4717) Panel exhibition on fraudulent business practices Distribution of educational materials to prevent consumer troubles, among other offerings Note: Saturday, May 11 only * New Physical Fitness Test (Contact: Sports Division 0463-94-4628) Measurements of grip strength, seated forward bend, sit-ups and other tests for adults Note: Sunday, May 12 — 10:00 AM to noon and 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM ⁂ Inquiries ⁂ Midori Park Division 0463-94-4759

Would you like to become a Yomitanson resident for a little while? This tour includes an entry pass to the 40th Yomitan Village Haarii Tournament!! Through Yomitan Village’s Haarii, a long-standing ritual praying for safe voyages and abundant catches, why not try being a “Yomitanson resident” for a short time? Experience 1: (Dinner with Yomitanson residents) Let’s celebrate your mini relocation! Raise awamori and shout “Karii!” (Cheers!) Experience 2: (Yomitan Village Haarii Tournament) A community event with Yomitanson residents! Row the haruusen (dragon boat) in unison!! ※When applying, we will ask whether you wish to participate in the Haarii tournament ※For safety and tournament management, participants must be junior high school age or older Experience 3: (Beach BBQ After the Haarii tournament, a beach BBQ is a classic!! Enjoy a pleasant time on a beautiful beach...! During your stay you can also enjoy the Uta no Hi Concert in Yomitan and, as an option, an Okinawan crafts experience!! Why not take this chance to fully enjoy Yomitan Village? ※You must apply separately for the Uta no Hi Concert in Yomitan ※The Okinawan crafts experience requires an additional fee (About the Okinawan crafts experience) Choose from Ryukyu glass making, sanshin (three-stringed instrument) experience, or yachimun (pottery) making. Each experience lasts about one hour. Tour overview Dates: Saturday, June 29, 2024 – Monday, July 1, 2024, 2 nights, 3 days Price: 39,800 yen per person (based on 2–3 people per room) Meeting point: 1020-1 Takashiro, Yomitan Village, Nakagami District, Okinawa Prefecture, Hotel Murasakimura For more information, contact the Yomitan Village Tourism Association. 098-958-6494

The cherry blossoms at Midorigaoka Park are in full bloom! On Sunday, May 5th, the “Midorigaoka Park Festival,” a celebration that lets you feel the arrival of spring in Tomakomai, will take place.✨ Date and time: Sunday, May 5, 2024 — canceled in case of rain Location: Around Kintaro Pond at Midorigaoka Park (Shimizu-cho 3, Tomakomai)

A Golden Week event is being held at the Shintoku Shrine grounds from today through the 5th, every day from 10:00 to 15:00, where petals and leaves of cherry trees mingle. Near the shrine, yellow forsythia, dandelions, and white plum blossoms are in bloom, bringing smiles to visitors.

[Notice about the Forest Park] Reopened on Monday, April 29th, here is information about the park’s playground equipment! —NEW— ★ Bouldering Climb all over the stage wall! Use is free. Shoe rental costs 100 yen. ★ Inflatable Dome This is also free to use. Lie back and feel the soft, pristine dome with your whole body! ※Open from 9:00 to 16:30 In addition to the newly installed equipment, we offer the northernmost batting center, go-karts, and other attractions that provide a break and fun for families. A paid campsite is scheduled to open in early June. ※500 yen per night Please enjoy Nishiokoppe to the fullest. #Nishiokoppe Village #Forest Park #Campsite #BBQ House #Reopened #Golden Week #Events available

This is the Shinshu Nagawacho Tourism Association. Nice to meet you! Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture, lies in central Nagano with abundant nature and a living history. ◇ History of Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture When the Nakasendo route linking Edo and Kyoto ran through the area in the Edo period, Nagawacho hosted two post towns, Nagakubo-juku and Wada-juku, whose traces remain as tourist spots today. ・Nakasendo: 28th Station Wada-juku Located at the foot of Wada Pass, a difficult section with about an 800-meter elevation change on the Nakasendo, many travelers rested and restored their energy here. The nationally designated historic sites Wada-juku Main Camp, Rekishi no Michi Shiryokan Kawachiya, and Daikokuya stand side by side, letting you feel the atmosphere of the Edo period. ・Nakasendo: 17th Station Nagakubo-juku In the Edo period there were 43 inns, making it the second largest of the 26 post towns in Shinano. Hoshikuso Pass in Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture, has been a source of obsidian for ages, and many people lived there. Hard, easily worked obsidian served as material for stone tools for some 30,000 years. ◇ Attractions in Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture◇ ・Utsukushigahara Highlands This lava plateau centers on Mt. Ogatou at 2,034 meters and offers sweeping views of Mount Fuji, Yatsugatake, and the Northern Alps. You can also see peaceful scenes of cows grazing on Utsukushigahara. The evacuation tower called the Tower of Beauty, placed in the highlands' center to ring a bell and protect climbers when fog forms, has become a symbol of Utsukushigahara. ・Roadside Station Marumero No Eki Nagato A recommended spot for buying souvenirs, offering fresh local vegetables and specialties. In June 2020 a direct-sales shop with an Edo-period–style exterior, Marche Kokuyo, opened. ・Kokuyo Water Near the tollgate of the Wada Pass toll road, the famous water plaza springs from bedrock filtered through obsidian. It is listed among Shinshu’s 37 Famous Waters. ・Nagato Hot Spring Yasuragi no Yu This day‑use hot spring facility adjacent to Roadside Station Marumero No Eki Nagato features a sodium sulfate spring, one of Japan’s three renowned “beauty” spring types. There is an open‑air bath and a source‑flowing “kama bath.” ・Wadashuku Onsen Fureai no Yu A day‑use hot spring located within the vast sports park Yuyu Park. The spring quality is calcium–sodium sulfate. From the azumaya‑style open‑air bath you can enjoy seasonal scenery. ・Obsidian Experience Museum Excavation results are presented clearly through actual stone tools, animations, and models. ・Hoshikuso-kan Obsidian Mine Exhibition Room Projection mapping directly onto strata illustrates Jomon‑period obsidian mining revealed by excavations, making the process easy to understand. ※Visitors must register at the Obsidian Experience Museum before entering. ・Blanche Takayama Ski Resort A skier‑only resort boasting an 80% clear‑sky rate. With a variety of runs, it’s a ski area families can enjoy. ※The 2023–2024 season ended on March 31. ◇ Events in Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture◇ ・Otaya Festival An annual festival held around January at Furumachi Toyoke Grand Shrine. Five floats are dedicated within the town. ・Wada-juku Post Town Festival A festival during the Obon period that recreates the history and culture of Wada-juku, drawing many visitors. At night lanterns light the post town. ◇ Local specialties and products of Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture Local specialties include Dattan‑soba and deep‑fried rainbow trout. These products, nurtured by Nagawacho’s rich nature, delight many visitors with their fresh flavors. ◇ Enjoy your visit to Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture Nagawacho welcomes you with abundant nature and streets where the atmosphere of the Edo period remains. We will share recommended information to help you fully enjoy your trip to Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture, so please follow us. We sincerely look forward to your visit.

[Forest Park Reopening] The forest park that underwent renovations last year finally reopened on Monday, April 29!! To celebrate the reopening, we will hold events through Monday, May 6, the final day of Golden Week. On the opening day, playground equipment will be free to use all day, and kitchen cars will appear from Friday, May 3 to Monday, May 6. Also… On Friday, May 3 we will hold the Go! Anpanman Show! There will be two performances, at 11:00 and 14:00. For more details, please contact the numbers below. We look forward to welcoming many visitors. *Contact* Tourist information center Satoyume: 0158-85-7125 Nishiokoppe Village Office, Industry and Construction Division, Forestry and Commerce Section: 0158-87-2111 Note: The campground is scheduled to open in early June. #Anpanman Show #Kitchen cars #Candy-sculpting #Nishiokoppe Village #Forest Park #Reopening #Golden Week #Events will also be held at Kimu and Kamu!

Night cherry blossom illumination is now on near Iwanai Shrine Street and Kunsuien! This is a new event starting this year🌸 Also, today, April 29, a tour of Kunsuien will be held. Kunsuien is one of the villas owned by wealthy merchant Ichitaro Umezawa, who served as Iwanai’s first mayor. It features a single-story wooden house built around 1920 (Taisho 9) and a Japanese garden developed between 1897 (Meiji 30) and around 1913 (Taisho 2). Full restoration began in fiscal 2021 (Reiwa 3), and the work is finally complete this year! A pre-opening runs from April 30, 9:00–17:00. Illumination of this site also starts on May 3, so please enjoy it together with the night cherry blossom lighting. If you visit Iwanai-cho, please be sure to stop by.

Speaking of Spring in Ozora Town, yes, it's ♪♪ "Moss phlox" This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Higashi Mokoto Moss Phlox Festival, which will be held again this year. Why don't you enjoy Spring in Ozora Town?! The festival will be held from May 3 Friday to May 31 Friday You can read more about it ♬♬ in Ozora Town Home page

The Spring Festival on Mt. Shintoku Shrine drew huge crowds. After a wind ensemble performance, the event continued with a magic show and a lottery. Mt. Shintoku Shrine is in full cherry blossom bloom; if you live nearby, come and visit. #Hokkaido #Tokachi #Shintoku Town #Shintoku Town Tourism Association #Shintoku Shrine #Full cherry blossoms #Ezo-yamazakura (Ezo mountain cherry) #Spring Festival

Shintoku Shrine Mountain Spring Festival to Be Held On a refreshing morning, with temperatures rising since the day before yesterday, preparations are underway for the Spring Festival at Shintoku Shrine, where the cherry blossoms are nearly in full bloom. The festival will take place on the shrine grounds, which are ablaze with cherry blossoms, from 10:00 to 14:00.

Atsumare! Animal Crossing × Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise — Hakkeijima Marine Life Interaction Exhibition Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise presents a collaboration with Nintendo Co., Ltd.’s Nintendo Switch™ game 'Atsumare! Dōbutsu no Mori' (Atsumare! Animal Crossing). From Wednesday, April 17, 2024, through Tuesday, July 9, 2024, we will hold the “Atsumare! Animal Crossing × Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise — Hakkeijima Marine Life Interaction Exhibition” for the first time in three years. This project lets visitors experience the charm of the many “sea creatures” that appear in Atsumare! Animal Crossing through a variety of themed activities. For this first return in three years, we will offer not only the popular content from the previous event but also new features such as a “Marine Animals Show.” Enjoy an expanded collaboration event with Atsumare! Animal Crossing even more than before.

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Video! This is Minamimaki Village in Nagano Prefecture. Minamimaki Village, Minamisaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture is a village of about 3,000 people located in eastern Nagano. The area ranges in elevation from 1,000 meters to 1,500 meters. On relatively flat ground around 1,300 meters, fields of highland vegetables such as Chinese cabbage and lettuce spread out, taking advantage of the cool climate. It is also one of Japan’s top stargazing spots and was chosen as one of the three most beautiful night skies in Japan. There are many stargazing locations throughout Minamimaki Village, Nagano Prefecture. Located at the foot of the Yatsugatake Mountains, the village’s abundant nature, fresh air, and clear night sky offer visitors a soothing escape. ■Tourist attractions in Minamimaki Village, Nagano Prefecture ・JR Nobeyama Station, the highest point on the railway network Nobeyama Station on the JR Koumi Line sits at an elevation of 1,345 meters and 67 centimeters, making it the highest station in Japan. From the station square you can see MtAkadake of the Yatsugatake range. ・Takizawa Farm Spread across the Yatsugatake Nobeyama Highlands, Takizawa Farm lets visitors interact with cows, horses, and other animals and take part in farm programs such as milking and making ice cream. You can also enjoy camping and adventure playgrounds for an out-of-the-ordinary experience. ・Nobeyama Radio Observatory, National Astronomical Observatory of Japan This world-class observatory has offered a Night Tour and the Learning Room Guide every weekend since March 2024. ・Mt. Meshimori You get a vast panorama that includes Yatsugatake, Mount Fuji, and the Southern Alps. A maintained trekking course makes the roughly one-hour ascent enjoyable for children and beginners. ・Yumoto Honzawa Onsen At 2,150 meters on Yatsugatake, the ‘‘bath above the clouds’’ and Koke Momo no Yu, which has a different spring quality, rank among Japan’s highest open-air baths. Surrounded by unspoiled nature, these quiet hot springs offer relaxation for body and mind. ■Local specialties of Minamimaki Village, Nagano Prefecture Minamimaki Village is known for high-quality agricultural products such as hana-mame (large red kidney beans), strawberries, and nagaimo (mountain yam). The flavor of these freshly grown local specialties is exceptional. ■Popular events and activities in Minamimaki Village, Nagano Prefecture You can enjoy a variety of year-round activities, including the Yatsugatake Nobeyama Highlands 100 km Ultramarathon, trekking, highland cycling, horseback riding, snowshoeing, and stargazing night tours. ■Enjoy your visit to Minamimaki Village, Nagano Prefecture With good access from Tokyo Metropolis—about a 2 hour 30 minute drive—it is a great destination for a day trip. Time spent in Minamimaki Village, where you can reconnect with nature, becomes a luxurious break from everyday noise. Please create lasting, precious memories here. Cool Japan Video will continue to share recommended information about Minamimaki Village in Nagano Prefecture. Thank you for your support!

Nayoro Tourism Volunteer Association Workshop 【Exploring the mountains and Sansai in spring】 At the Nayoro Sightseeing volunteer Association, we will hold a workshop to take a walk in the forest of the city with a guide and collect Sansai and cook it during this Spring season! The participation fee is 1,500 yen and the capacity is limited to 25 people, so if you would like to participate, please ♪ apply as soon as possible Applications can be made by e-mail. MAIL:nayoro-volunteer@nayoro-kankou.com * When applying by e-mail, please enter the following information. 1 Name furigana 2 Date of birth 3 Phone number 4 Address 5 Allergies, etc. ◆Notes◆ 1 Sansai harvesting baskets, scissors, and cooking utensils are available for rent. 2 Please dress according to the weather. It is desirable to wear clothes that cover the skin. 3 We do not provide dishes other than Sansai, so we recommend that you Bring your own with light meals such as rice balls. 5 Reception on the day of the event will be held from 8:45 a.m. Hot spring in front of the Sun Pillar Barbecue House. For more information and to apply, please see the flyer!

Hello! This is Agematsu Tourism Association. Agematsu Town, Nagano Prefecture, sits in the southwest of Nagano, at the heart of the Kiso Valley along the upper reaches of the Kiso River. The town boasts rich history and beautiful nature that continue to charm visitors. ◆◆History of Agematsu Town, Nagano Prefecture◆◆ During the Edo period, Agematsu Town was the 38th post town on the Nakasendo, which linked Edo and Kyoto. The stretch from Koumatsu-juku to Suhara-juku is the longest on the Kiso Road, and the area thrived as a rest stop for many travelers. You can still feel that history at sites such as the Kiso Plank and Nezame-no-toko Gorge. Guided Nakasendo walking tours led by veteran guides are available to help you create lasting travel memories. Agematsu Town has long prospered as a forestry town producing high-quality timber, notably Kiso hinoki (Japanese cypress), and is known as the “village of hinoki.” ◆◆Popular sights in Agematsu Town, Nagano Prefecture◆◆ ◇Nezame-no-toko Gorge The Kiso River has carved the granite into squared formations that look like large boxes lined up. A local legend says Urashima Taro opened his tamatebako (treasure box) here. ◇Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest This recreation forest features natural Kiso hinoki trees over 300 years old and was an early site of forest protection measures some 400 years ago. Seven walking trails wind through the forest, and paid experiences such as forest therapy are available. Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest is regarded as the birthplace of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing. The term “forest bathing” was coined in 1982, and that year the first national forest bathing event was held here at Akasawa. ◇Akasawa Forest Railway A 2.2-kilometer round-trip tourist trolley runs through Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest; it was once used to transport timber. You can enjoy forest bathing while riding the railway. The Forest Railway Memorial Museum displays a steam locomotive from the railway’s opening era. ◇Kiso Komagatake The highest peak of the Central Alps, Kiso Komagatake rises to 2,956 meters. A ropeway climbs to 2,612 meters, offering Japan’s greatest elevation gain by ropeway. ◇Kiso Old Road, a natural trail This route linked the north and south of Kiso before the Nakasendo was developed. A hiking course on the Kiso plateau at about 1,000 meters elevation offers expansive natural views. ◆◆Events and festivals loved in Agematsu Town, Nagano Prefecture◆◆ ◇Komagatake Shrine Annual Festival Held every year on May 3, the festival features the nationally designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property performance “Daidai Kagura 13 Seats.” You can see pieces such as the four tengu dance “Shijin Gokae-hai” and the sword dance “Sanken no Mai.” ◆◆Local specialties of Agematsu Town, Nagano Prefecture◆◆ Local specialties include gohei-mochi, sunkki (fermented turnip), and hooba-maki (hoja leaf-wrapped dishes). These regional foods offer rich, distinctive flavors you can enjoy only here. ◆◆Why visit Agematsu Town, Nagano Prefecture◆◆ Agematsu Town charms visitors with its abundant nature and deep history. From the dramatic landscapes of Nezame-no-toko Gorge and Kiso Komagatake to the extraordinary forest bathing at Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest and the sense of history you feel walking the Nakasendo, Agematsu offers many attractions. Leave everyday life behind and enjoy a restorative trip filled with nature, history, and culture in Agematsu Town. Cool Japan Video will continue to share recommended information about Agematsu Town. Thank you for your support.

The illumination starts tomorrow! It’s a bit chilly today, but the cherry blossoms have begun to open and are about 20% in bloom. The cool weather is likely to continue through tomorrow, but clear skies above 20°C are forecast from Friday. By this weekend, some 2,300 Ezo-yamazakura cherry trees are expected to burst into bloom all at once. Also, the roughly 40 forsythia shrubs planted at the Shintoku-yama trailhead are in full yellow bloom, so enjoy spring under the cherry blossoms and forsythia both day and night this weekend.

The 18th Renge Festival The weather looks unsettled, but why not stop by for a stroll and take a look! ※Parking is limited Please use public transportation to attend.

【Nakagawa Village Product Exhibition Information】 Osaka Nakanoshima Museum of Art 2F Lawn Square ⁡ Today's End of sale has ended! It will be held tomorrow from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.! Best regards🙇 ♂️ #Nakagawa Village #Beautiful Village Union #Nakagawa Village Agriculture and Tourism Exchange Center #The Most Beautiful Village Union in Japan #Kamiina #Nagano Prefecture #Nagano Prefecture Tourism #Tourism Association #Central Alps #Fruit #Fruit picking #Osaka #Product Exhibition #Nakanoshima Museum of Art #Nakka Markets

Nice to meet you all and welcome to COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! This is the Nakagawa Village Tourism Association. Nakagawa Village is a village in the southernmost part of Kamiina County in the southern part of Nagano Prefecture that has been recognized as the "most beautiful village in Japan". Although it is a small village with a population of about 4,600, it is surrounded by the lush greenery of Minami Shinshu, with clear air, clear water stream from the majestic mountains, and beautiful natural scenery. Best regards for COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, as we will deliver the charm of Nakagawa Village. ■Introducing popular sightseeing spots in Nakagawa Village Nakagawa Village has a number of popular tourist attractions. Here, we will introduce sightseeing spots recommended by the Nakagawa Village Tourism Association. ・Jinmagata Mountain Jinmagata Mountain, with an elevation of 1,445 meters, is a popular spot visited by more than 10,000 people a year. From the top of Jinmagata Mountain, you can see the mountains of the Northern, Central Alps and Southern Alps. ・Okusa Castle Ruins Park It is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot with more than 200 cherry blossoms of more than 10 types blooming in the spring season. The contrast between the remaining snow of the Central Alps and the pink cherry blossoms is beautiful, and it is also popular as a photo spot. ・ Ginkgo trees in Doba The rows of Ginkgo trees, which are managed by local volunteers, attract people visit glow golden in autumn. ・Kosibu Dam Kosibu Dam, built in the Kosibu Gorge, is a spot where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the four seasons. During the autumn foliage season, the trees all around change color. ・Sakado Bridge It is a reinforced concrete single-arch bridge with a total length of 77.9 meters built in Showa 7, and cherry blossoms and azaleas are planted on both banks, making it one of the famous places in spring. It has been designated as an important cultural property of Japan. ■A big event in Nakagawa Village! Nakagawa Don-chan Festival ・Nakagawa Don-chan Festival Nakagawa Don-chan Festival, a popular event in Nakagawa Village's summer, is a festivals that all participants can enjoy, including performances such as kids dancing on stage and Jin Drums, as well as bingo tournaments. Approximately 2,000 fireworks at the Finale of the festival will brightly color the night sky of Nakagawa Village. ■Specialty products of Nakagawa Village Specialty products such as fresh vegetables, apples, peaches, grapes, strawberries, honey, Ichida persimmons, and dried sweet potatoes grown in the blessed natural environment of Nakagawa Village are abundant. These Specialty products are painstakingly grown by the locals, and their taste makes many people's palates growl. Specialty products of Nakagawa Village are also prepared as thank-you gifts for Furusato Nozei tax payment. ■Nakagawa Village Enjoy sightseeing! Nakagawa Village is called a "sacred place for campsites", and there are many Popular campsites that are attractive. Fun a time to heal your daily fatigue in Nature. A quiet time spent in the beautiful scenery of Nakagawa Village will surely be one of your memories! We will send out such recommended Information of Nakagawa Village on COOL JAPAN VIDEOS!

[Spring Window Art in Kam] On Saturday, April 13, Roadside Station Kam hosted an event to paint pictures on windows! This time we commissioned a professional artist to create coloring spaces on some of the windows. First, we visited the Flower Park before it opened and observed the crocuses just beginning to bloom and the trails mice likely left after tunneling through the snow. It was heartwarming to see children walking in a line along the stones that border the flower area. The event was themed “Flowers and Animals,” so I was glad we could look at the flowers that are actually blooming as the snow melted before we started drawing. As the windows filled with color, Roadside Station Kam seemed to brim with spring cheer. It was a short one-hour event, but thank you to everyone who participated! The artwork will be on display until mid-May. A Kam Marche is also scheduled from Friday, May 3 through Sunday, May 5. Please stop by Roadside Station Kam! #Nishiokoppe Village #Hokkaido #Window Art #Painting #Drawn on windows #Crayons #Coloring #Flower Park #Kam #Roadside Station #Marche from Friday, May 3 to Sunday, May 5

[Komu Wood's Golden Week Festival] Golden Week is approaching! Have you decided on any outings? This year too, the forest museum Komu will host a Golden Week Festival! [Friday, May 3] 11:00 – Parent-and-child castanet workshop [Saturday, May 4] 11:00 – Parent-and-child castanet workshop 13:30 – Parent-and-child block-stacking contest (free to join) [Sunday, May 5 & Monday, May 6] 11:00 & 14:30 Sakhalin fir distilled water making experience 13:00 Violin and piano recital When we went to see the Sakhalin fir used for the distilled water, its green leaves were sparkling in the sun. Touch the wood, make something, and enjoy music at Komu's Golden Week events. We look forward to your visit. #Nishiokoppe Village #Hokkaido #GW #Komu #Forest Museum #woodworking #mokuiiku (wood learning) #recital #Sakhalin fir #castanets #building blocks

Nighttime Cherry Blossom Illumination at Shintoku Shrine Hill Begins. From Thursday, April 25 through Wednesday, May 10, about 2,300 Ezo-yamazakura cherry trees on Shintoku Shrine Hill will be illuminated, from the area around the shrine office up the stairway to the precincts and nearby grounds. Since last year, we have used ten LED floodlights to reduce impact and make this nighttime cherry blossom event more environmentally friendly. Please note that the event dates may shift slightly depending on the timing of cherry blossom opening and falling, so check the Tourism Association’s social media before you visit. Also on Sunday, April 28 starting at 10:00, the Shintoku Shrine Hill Spring Festival will feature a wind ensemble performance, magic show, food trucks and stalls from local shops, a candy toss, and a raffle. The festival will go ahead in light rain and be canceled in severe weather. #Hokkaido #Tokachi #Shintoku Town #Shintoku Town Tourism Association #Shintoku Hill #Shintoku Shrine #cherry blossoms #Ezo-yamazakura #nighttime cherry blossoms #illumination #event #LED floodlights #environmentally friendly

The Atami Karaoke Grand Prix 2024 Spring will take place over three days from Saturday, April 27 to Monday, April 29 (public holiday) at Shinsui Park Event Plaza. To energize Atami and Izusan, Izusan-based voice coach Turner Sensei will hold a karaoke competition in Atami. Fifty representatives of Atami, chosen through in-person preliminaries and recommendations held from January to March, and fifty national representatives selected by online audio screening will advance to the finals. With total prizes of 500,000 yen, 100 contestants will compete with their proud voices. Food and drink vendors will be on site, so please come support the performers! Atami Karaoke Grand Prix 2024 Spring Date and Time / Saturday, April 27 to Monday, April 29, 2024 (public holiday) 10:00–16:00 Venue / Shinsui Park Event Plaza (Nagisacho, Atami City) *Free admission*

70th Anniversary of Municipal Incorporation "Takeda no sato nirasaki" Roundabout Nirasaki Stamp rally is being held! Let's get Stamps around tourist facilities and shops in Nirasaki City, Yamanashi Prefecture! Use three target facilities during the period, collect Stamps, and apply. Nirasaki City's Specialty Products will be presented by lottery! We look forward to receiving your application. ●Stamp installation location● 70 restaurants in Nirasaki City, Yamanashi Prefecture, souvenir and product shops, hot springs, lodging stays, experience facilities, etc. ●Implementation period● 2024 Reiwa 6March 28 Thu ~ 2025 Reiwa 7 January 6 Mon ●Lottery● 1st 2024 Reiwa 6 July 5 Fri 2nd 2024 Reiwa 6 October 4 Fri 3rd 2025 Reiwa 7 January 10 Fri ●How to apply● Collect 3 Stamps at the target facility during the period and apply! ☆ Restaurants, souvenirs, and product shops: Use of 500 yen or more ☆ Hot springs, lodging stays, experiences, etc.: Use of facilities * Multiple stamps on the same Stamp are not valid. * Stamp rally paper Stamp available at stores or Nirasaki Tourism Association Window that are eligible for the rally. *Please check the Nirasaki Tourism Association Home page for details.

How do you do! Chiba Prefecture Kamagaya City kamagayashi. Chiba Prefecture Kamagaya City is a convenient city that can be reached in about 30 minutes by train from central Tokyo, and has direct access to Narita Airport and Haneda Airport. With a population of about 110,000, Kamagaya City is easily accessible from the city center, and you can enjoy sightseeing spots full of history and culture with abundant nature. We will send out recommended information so that you can visit Kamagaya City for sightseeing, so thank you! ★★ Recommended places to visit in Chiba Prefecture Kamagaya City ◇Kamagaya Daibutsu Great Buddha The historic 1.8-meter-high Great Buddha, built in 1776, was designated as the first designated cultural property of Kamagaya City in 1972 and was selected as one of the "500 Charms of Boso". It has become a symbol of Kamagaya City. ◇Grave of a Tomb of a Government Soldier It is a valuable historical site that conveys the turbulent history of the end of the Edo period. It is designated as a city cultural property and is located in the Great Buddha Cemetery where the Kamagaya Daibutsu Great Buddha, which is also a city-designated cultural property, sits. ◇Hyakkoshin Within the Precincts of Hachiman Shrine, a total of 100 Koshin pagodas have been built, including 10 blue-faced Kongo statues and 90 character pagodas. ◇Kaigara-yama Park In the pond in the center of the park, waterfowl swim gracefully. It is a popular picnic spot for families, where you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons, such as cherry blossoms in full bloom, fresh greenery, colorful autumn leaves, and snowy scenery. ◇Fighters Kamagaya Stadium Nicknamed "Kamasta", it is the farm home of the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters. MLB players Shohei Ohtani and Yu Yu Darvish also worked up a sweat at this stadium. It is a must see spot for sports fans. ★★ Beloved events and festivals in Chiba Prefecture Kamagaya City ◇Kamagaya City Citizens' Festival For a long time, which will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2024, it is a festival loved by the people of Kamagaya City. Equestrian warrior processions, parades, and Free Bazaar are held, and it is an event full of smiles. ◇ Kamagaya fireworks "Kamagaya Fireworks" is a summer tradition in Kamagaya City that began in 2016. 3,000 fireworks color the summer night sky of Kamagaya. ◇New Kamaya Illumination The beautiful event that heralds the visit of winter, when the area around Shinkamagaya Station is decorated with 53,000 illuminations, warmly illuminates the winter nights. ★★ Specialty Products Gourmet in Chiba Prefecture Kamagaya City Kamagaya City has a thriving pear cultivation, and the sweet and juicy pears are loved by locals and tourists alike as a taste from summer to autumn. There are about 150 pear farms in the city, and many of them sell directly to them, so please taste the freshly freshly caught pears. It is also popular as a thank-you gift for Furusato Nozei tax payment. ★★ We look forward to seeing you in Chiba Prefecture Kamagaya City! Chiba Prefecture Kamagaya City allows you to feel the beauty of nature and the depth of history. We will send out travel recommendation Information that will be one page of everyone's memories on COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, so thank you!