Introducing Kozuka from Wakedo Title: Mouko zu Kozuka Signature: Katsuryuken (Iwama Masayoshi) Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Hozon Tousougu Size: Length 97.5mm, Width 15mm Period: Late of Edo (AD1764 to 1837) School: Iwama school Description Iwami Masayoshi is the founder of the Iwama school. He was a disciple of Hamano Naosuke and was allowed to use the character 'Nao' at the age of twenty, taking the name Naoyasu. After training at the main house, he signed as Katsuryuken Masayoshi, and in his later years, he adopted the name Juboku in pursuit of the ideal techniques of Riju and Mizume Masazui. He excelled in high carving in the Seizui style, and his skills were praised as exceptional. This work is a kozuka depicting a fierce tiger, notable for its interesting composition. The tiger looks up at the sky with a vivid expression, and the high relief technique used in the background creates a three-dimensional representation of the fierce tiger, which is impressive.

Introduction of the Fuchikashira from Wakeido Title: Botan shishi zu Fuchikashira Signature: Hidenaga (kao) Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Hozon Tousougu Dimensions: Fuchi - Height 38mm, Width 22.5mm, Thickness 13.4mm Head - Height 33.8mm, Width 13mm Period: Middle Edo Period School: Oomori School Description The Oomori School is a prestigious lineage alongside the Ishiguro-ha and Yanagawa-ha within the Okutani School, founded by Hidehisa, who trained under Yokoya Somin, and flourished under the second generation, Hidenaga. Hidehisa Omori, the eldest son of Hidehisa, initially took the name Hanjitsu and later assumed the name Shirobe. After passing away earlier than his father, the family estate was inherited by his younger brother, Fusami. Consequently, the number of his works is limited. This piece showcases the high skill of the Oomori School, featuring a high relief color painting of a peony lion on a red-copper fish scale ground in the Yokoya style.

On April 12th, the Takeda diamond, signaling the arrival of spring, was clearly visible on Mt. Goryu in Hakuba. Cherry blossoms and snow-capped mountains! And a clear blue sky. I received the best hospitality from Hakuba!

Hello, this is Ryusuidō. Shosenkyo Gorge is enveloped in soft new greenery, welcoming a pleasant season🌿 The weeping cherry blossoms at Shōgyokudō in the Takigami area are gradually turning into leaf blossoms, but they are doing their best to greet everyone😊 The mountain rose (yamabuki) blooming close to the rocky surface also reminds us of the season!❗️ Shosenkyo is also famous as the birthplace of the April birthstone, crystal. It can be used for everything from accessories to interior decor and is said to be a "universal stone" that brings good fortune, purification, and protection, making it suitable for anyone✨ In the Takigami area, there are many spots where you can forget your daily routine and have fun, such as the Hachushuike, where you can toss in eight balls for wishes, so please come visit Shosenkyo‼ All of our staff are looking forward to the day we can see your wonderful smiles😊

"Hotaru Matsuri in Doshi Village" will be held for the first time in 10 years. On June 20th (Saturday) from 14:00 At Doshi Village Kanko Farm Campground There will be stalls for children and food trucks Activities like fish catching and crafts are planned. Starting around 19:30, there will be "firefly viewing". We will inform you again once the details are finalized.

【Cherry Blossom Tour in Southern Shinshu🌸】Tenryū Gorge and Yae-zakura Kaidō are nearing their peak bloom! Currently at "50% bloom" & night illuminations are underway✨ The overlapping petals create an irresistible volume, reminiscent of peony flowers...! The contrast of pink gradients and the newly sprouted leaves offers a breathtaking view unique to this season✨" On Sunday, April 19th, the "Tenryū Gorge Yaezakura Street Sakura Festival" will also be held! ✅ About 2km (approximately 200 cherry trees of 10 varieties) along the cherry blossom path🌸 ✅ Illuminations are ongoing. A night stroll among the cherry blossoms is also recommended🌙 ✅ On April 19th (Sunday), the "Yae-zakura Kaidō Sakura Festival" will take place🌸

April 14th This morning, Azumino is beautifully clear According to the forecast, the weather seems to deteriorate in the evening, so if you want to enjoy the cherry blossoms, today is the day Have fun in the countryside of Azumino!!

On April 13th the cherry blossom trees along the Hotaka River, where the early spring song monument is located, have started to shed their petals... You can enjoy the picturesque scenery of Azumino, featuring cherry blossoms, wasabi fields, and the Northern Alps.

April 13 Azumino Cherry Blossom Blooming Information The cherry blossoms at the famous spot in Azumino, Mount Hikarujo, are in full bloom!! This year, they reached the summit in no time. The cherry blossoms on Mount Hikarujo are planted along the hiking trail, blooming like a "rising dragon" from the trailhead to the summit♪ Please be careful as parking is limited for those driving!

Around 3 PM on April 12th The Northern Alps and cherry blossoms from the Roo Observation Deck in Ogawamura, Nagano Prefecture🌸 I've never seen such a view before! It's breathtaking! I'm moved by the scenery that can only be seen at this time of year! I'm captivated by the nature of Shinshu♪

Located in Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Arakurayama Sengen Park💁 The five-story pagoda and cherry blossoms standing in the morning mist, along with Mount Fuji, truly represent Japan's original landscape. (୨୧❛ᴗ❛)📷🌸🗻

April 12 Cherry blossoms blooming in Azumino In the background, the Northern Alps The vibrant spring of Azumi Plain

April 12 Azumino Cherry Blossom Blooming Information The cherry blossom trees along Kurosawagawa are in full bloom!! The cherry blossom path extends for about 1 km Although the riverbank is a bit rough, it's a pleasant stroll along the trees.

On April 12th The warmth lately has made the flowering peach bloom... Usually, it happens after the cherry blossoms... Right now, Azumino is truly a riot of flowers This area is near Daio Wasabi Farm.

April 12th Azumino Cherry Blossom Blooming Information Weeping cherry trees along the foothills of Azumino Single cherry trees in Kitakokura, Tadai, and Minami-Kokura All have passed their peak and are beginning to fall...

Cherry blossoms can be seen all over the country, but... wasabi flowers can be enjoyed in Azumino! You can encounter the delicate white flowers in the wasabi fields of Azumino!

Toyama Castle Park is widely regarded as one of Japan’s most picturesque locations for enjoying cherry blossoms, blending natural beauty with deep historical significance. The park surrounds Toyama Castle, whose origins date back to the Sengoku period, when it functioned as a strategic stronghold under regional rulers. Although the original castle was lost to time, the present structure symbolizes Toyama’s feudal heritage and now serves as a cultural landmark within the city. The cherry‑blossom experience becomes especially memorable when viewed from a quiet, slow‑moving boat gliding along the castle moat. From this serene vantage point, visitors can fully appreciate the delicate fragrance of the blossoms, while petals occasionally drift down and gently settle around them. This harmony of history, landscape, and sensory richness creates a tranquil atmosphere that offers a timeless and deeply rewarding hanami experience.

This is an introduction to the fuchikashira from Wakedo. Title: Bairyu Taketora zu Fuchikashira Signature: Yanagawa Naomasa (kao) Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Hozon Tousougu Dimensions: Fuchikashira - Height 38.4mm, Width 22.2mm, Thickness 12mm Head - Height 35mm, Width 16.3mm Period: Middle Edo Period, AD 1692 - AD 1757 School: Yanagawa School Description The Yanagawa School, founded by Naomasa, is a prestigious school of town carving with disciples such as Naomitsu and Naoharu. Naomasa was born in the fifth year of Genroku as the son of Masatsugu, with the childhood name Heijiro, later changed to Sanzaemon. He entered the school of Yoshioka Inabanosuke during his youth and later learned under Yokoya Somin at his father's instruction. He passed away at the age of sixty-six in the seventh year of Hōreki. The Yanagawa School is known for its high-relief color painting on red-copper fish skin, and works signed by Naomasa can be seen as imitations of Somin's style. This work, Bairyu Taketora zu, also features Yokoya-style dragons and tigers delicately applied to the red-copper fish skin, showcasing Naomasa's exceptional skill.

Azumino Cherry Blossom Blooming Information The cherry blossoms at the bicycle square are in full bloom. Today, Mt. Jonen was beautifully visible, allowing us to enjoy a quartet of cherry blossoms, shibazakura (moss phlox), fresh greenery, and the Northern Alps. For those coming by car, the area on the east side of the shooting spot tends to get crowded, so it might be better to use the parking lot on the west side.

Hello everyone, this is the En'emon Folklore Museum. Shosenkyo Gorge has transformed beautifully into spring! 😃✨ The cherry blossoms in the parking lot are in full bloom! 🌸❗️ Despite the recent strong winds, they are blooming vibrantly. 😊 Although many petals have fallen near the entrance by Nagatoro Bridge, the area around Senga Falls is just reaching its peak bloom. 🌸🌸 As various flowers will soon start to bloom one after another, we invite you to come and visit Shosenkyo! 😃 We have a variety of quartz, the birthstone for April, including raw stones, polished crystals, and flower-shaped ones. ✨✨ Please feel free to stop by during your stroll. All of our staff are waiting for you with smiles! 😃

On May 5th, 2026 (Tuesday, national holiday), the "Kuniyoshi Castle Festival 2026" will be held around the Wakasa Kuniyoshi Castle History Museum. Experience the Warring States period at this impregnable castle, where Nobunaga, Hideyoshi, and Ieyasu entered. It's a fun event for both adults and children! Date: Tuesday, May 5th, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM Venue: Around the Wakasa Kuniyoshi History Museum and Tokusho-ji Temple (25-2 Sagaki, Mihama Town, Mikata-gun, Fukui Prefecture) Admission: Free Rain Policy: The event will proceed in rain (the stage venue may change partially to "Tokusho-ji" in case of rain). Access: 5 minutes by car from the Wakasa Mihama Interchange on the Maizuru-Wakasa Expressway (Free parking available for about 220 cars; please follow the directions of the staff) About 3 kilometers from Mihama Station (approximately 20 minutes by rental bicycle) Contact: 050-5235-2185 (Please note there was an error in the phone number on the pamphlet.) Schedule 9:00 AM Opening Ceremony 9:30 AM Kunimoto Matchlock Gun Research Association (Special venue) 10:05 AM Sakurai To 10:40 AM Kazane (Ocarina) 11:10 AM Sanshin Group Shinpu Eisa 11:40 AM Mihama Jazz Orchestra 12:15 PM Kyoto-Nagaokakyo Omotenashi Bushotai Tsutsuji 12:50 PM Bubu no Hoshitachi (Guitar performance) 1:20 PM Sunflower (Guitar performance) 2:00 PM Historical Stories 3:00 PM Closing Declaration *Please note that the content and schedule may change without notice due to various circumstances. Thank you for your understanding. Merchandise Sales Kyoto-Nagaokakyo Omotenashi Bushotai Tsutsuji Sakurai To Kuniyoshi Association Mini Festival Ring toss, Super Ball scooping, etc. Play, learn, and experience the Warring States period! Handwritten castle seals by descendants of the castle lord Location: Special booth in front of the Wakasa Kuniyoshi Castle History Museum Cost: 1,000 yen per sheet Numbered tickets: Distribution starts at 9:00 AM Event Time: 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM Kuniyoshi Castle Historical Walk (Hiking) *Rain or shine Location: In front of the Wakasa Kuniyoshi Castle History Museum Departure: 10:00 AM (Expected to finish around 11:30 AM) Registration: 9:00 AM to 9:50 AM Capacity: 50 people (First-come, first-served on the day) Historical Stories (1st Kuniyoshi Castle History Lecture for 2026) Location: Special stage for the Kuniyoshi Castle Festival Event Time: 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Armor Experience *Canceled in case of rain Available all day Cost: Free Location: Learning room of the museum Target: From children to adults Delicious Food Market (Limited items available) Vendor List: Mahana Table, Brick House, Momonji, Tsuru to Kame, YuuViva, Nakanishi Seika, Coffee Shop Hygge, Mihama Town Social Welfare Council, Kuniyoshi Association, Funatako Tokusho-ji (Indoor Rest Area) Authentic vegetarian cuisine (from 10:00 AM) Temple CAFE (from 10:00 AM)

Azumino Cherry Blossom Blooming Information The cherry blossoms at Jōnen Dōsojin are in full bloom. It was chilly in Azumino this morning, but I'm worried about the weather deteriorating starting tomorrow...

[Late April] The sacred tree of Kanazakura Shrine, “Kanazakura,” is in full bloom 🌼 An announcement from Shosenkyo’s local mascot, Shosencat 🐱 Kanazakura Shrine is a deeply mystical shrine often called a power spot. The shrine’s sacred tree, Kanazakura, has long been famous in folk songs as the “money-bearing tree, Kanazakura” 😳 People say that if you worship the cherry blossoms at this season and receive a crystal charm, you will be blessed with good fortune for life ♪ Wanting money? You should definitely come, okay? Come to Shosenkyo for a spring or Golden Week outing! We’ll be waiting!

Azumino Cherry Blossom Update Jikkasegi Irrigation Canal running through Azumino The cherry trees blooming along its riverbank are in full bloom The Yamabiko Bicycle Path runs right beside it, so you can enjoy a walk while viewing the blossoms 🚶‍♀️ or a leisurely bike ride 🚴!! This spot is near Toyoshina Nanbu General Park♪

Azumino cherry blossom update The popular Azumino sightseeing spot, Jitensha Hiroba, is in full bloom A trio of cherry blossoms, moss phlox, and fresh green leaves Mt. Jonen in the Northern Alps was partly shrouded in clouds, with the summit briefly visible

The large parking lot at Daio Wasabi Farm in Azumino There was a puddle, so I looked in… and the Northern Alps were perfectly reflected!!

A trout farm landscape in Azumino Using spring water from the Northern Alps, cold-water fish farming—most notably Shinshu salmon—thrives here There are fish pens everywhere, and the fish are swimming energetically!!

Cherry blossoms are in full bloom in Awara City, Fukui Prefecture. The red of the torii and the pink of the blossoms create a scene you can only see now. I stopped on my way home from Kanatsu Elementary School. The cherry trees along Arata-zaka formed a beautiful tunnel again this year.

I rode the Matsukawa sightseeing boat in Toyama Prefecture. The weather wasn't great, but when cherry blossom petals floated on the water and the boat slipped under a bridge, the scene looked like a painting. At one moment, a plane took off between two stretches of cherry trees, creating a surreal view that made me snap a photo without thinking. I hope I can take the ride again next year when the weather is nicer.

Minami Shinshu weekend outing info 🚗💨 The katakuri (dogtooth violet) at Katakuri no Sato in Oosegi, Iida City, is in full bloom! A pale purple carpet stretches as far as the eye can see — a once-in-a-season spectacle. It’s perfect for photos 📸✨️ Plus! On Sunday, April 12, the Katakuri Festival will take place. Come enjoy a spring stroll with family and friends. ⁡ 📸: Friday, April 3, 2026 📍 Katakuri no Sato (2609-27 Oosegi, Iida City, Nagano Prefecture) Best time to visit: Now in peak bloom! Event: Katakuri Festival on Sunday, April 12 ※ Sakura-sama Cherry Blossom Festival held at the same time! ※ Check Minami Shinshu Navi for details 👀