Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Specialty Products and Souvenirs: Gokase Wine Nestled in rich nature atop a hill at 660 meters stands Gokase Winery. A climate with large temperature swings and pure water nurtures grapes with an exquisite balance of sugar and acidity. “We wanted to make wine using 100% locally grown grapes.” With that wish, the winery opened in 2005. Wines made from freshly harvested grapes have a juicy, fruity character. Please enjoy wines made from 100% Gokase-grown grapes, filled with the scent of the earth. Wine Introductions ■ Niagara (white, sweet — most popular) Grape variety: Niagara This white wine made from the table grape Niagara has a beautiful golden color. Aroma reminiscent of osmanthus with added fresh notes makes for a pleasantly refreshing sweet wine. ■ Delaware (white, slightly sweet) Grape variety: Delaware The pale yellow hue of Delaware is easy on the eyes in this white wine. Its citrus-like aroma and fresh acidity pair well with a wide range of meat dishes. ■ Chardonnay (white, medium dry) Grape variety: Chardonnay Chardonnay shows a lovely pale yellow-green that evokes Gokase’s spring buds. Its lively acidity is refreshing and leaves a clean finish. This crisp, slightly dry style pairs well with fish-based Japanese cuisine. ■ Campbell Early (rosé, slightly sweet) Grape variety: Campbell Early This slightly sweet rosé locks in the grape’s fresh fragrance and natural sweetness. Its vivid color is as striking as a sunset pouring over Kuwanochi. ■ Yuhi (red, dry) Grape varieties: Merlot, Petit Verdot Merlot and Petit Verdot were aged carefully in barrels for one year. This light-bodied red balances gentle acidity and tannin for easy drinking. ■ Juju (sparkling, white) Grape variety: Niagara Keeping Niagara’s characteristic aroma, this sparkling version transforms it into a crisp Niagara. It has a refreshing mouthfeel. ■ Oubu (sparkling, rosé) Grape variety: Campbell Early A sparkling wine made from the table grape Campbell Early. Enjoy its mature, developed flavor. ■ Ryoka (sparkling, white) Grape variety: Chardonnay A sparkling wine made from Chardonnay, featuring youthful, fresh fruit aromas and moderate acidity. It is dry and sharp in taste and pairs excellently with fish dishes. ■ Akane (red, dry) This is a half bottle (360 ml). Named Akane to evoke the beautiful autumn sunset skies visible from Gokase Winery. A Merlot-dominant red. Akane, finished dry, rested in stainless tanks for a light taste. It features gentle tannins and clean acidity. Other options include half (360 ml) bottles of Niagara, Rosé, and Chardonnay.

[Miyazaki Prefecture, Gokasecho] Local Specialty and Souvenir: kama-iri tea Kama-iri tea is made by pan-frying tea leaves instead of steaming them. This method, similar to the process used for oolong tea, brings out the tea’s natural aroma. Compared with standard steamed teas, it boasts a light, refreshing flavor and excellent fragrance that make it easy to drink cup after cup.

Hello everyone. This is the Yamanouchi Town Planning and Tourism Bureau. Nagano Prefecture Shimotakai County Yamanouchi Town is a charming Sightseeing spot that is rich in Nature, history, and Hot Spring. Blessed with a beautiful Nature environment where you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons, you can spend a relaxing time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In this First Post, I will introduce Recommendations for Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture. ■■Introduction to Sightseeing spots in Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture■■ ◇Yudanaka Shibu Hot Spring Village Yudanaka Shibu Hot Spring Village is one of the Hot Spring resorts Representative of Japan. With a history of more than 1,300 years, this hot spring village consists of the following nine hot spring resorts. ・Jigokudani Hot Spring ・Kamibayashi Hot Spring ・Shibu Onsen ・Andai Hot Spring ・Yudanaka Hot Spring ・Shinyudanaka Hot Spring ・Hoshikawa Hot Spring ・Honami Onsen ・Kakuma Hot Spring There are many inns and Hot Spring facilities in the Hot spring resort. In particular, the communal bath tour called "Out-spa Tour" in Shibu Onsen is popular, and you can spend a relaxing time while feeling the atmosphere of the hot spring bath. In addition, at night, the Hot spring resort is illuminated by lanterns, creating a fantastic atmosphere. ◇Jigokudani Yaen-koen Jigokudani Yaen-koen is famous for being the only place in the world where wild Japanese macaques can be seen bathing in hot springs. In the snow-covered landscape, the sight of the monkeys soaking in the hot water gives us peace. You can observe the monkeys in their Nature state up close, so it is a Spot that can be enjoyed by everyone from children to Adult. ◇Shiga Highlands The UNESCO-listed Eco Park Shiga Highlands Located in Joshinetsu Highlands National Park, surrounded by 2,000-Meters-class mountains. It is one of the snow resorts Representative of Japan and is crowded with many skiers and snowboarders. In summer, it is also popular as a Highlands resort where you can enjoy Hiking and trekking. You can enjoy the beautiful nature of the four seasons, and especially during the Autumn leaves season, the entire mountain is enveloped in vivid colors. ◇Kita Shiga Highlands Kita-Shiga Highlands, which has four ski resorts, is one of the one of the most Heavy snowfall area in Nagano Prefecture Restrooms available where Soba buckwheat noodles Cultivation has been held for a long time. Climbing to an Elevation of 1,700 Meters on the world's largest 166-seater ropeway, you can see various sky patterns such as a sea of clouds and a starry sky throughout the year. ◇Mt. Yokoteyama Mt. Yokote, located in the Shiga Highlands area, is a mountain with an Elevation of 2,307 Meters, and on a clear day, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the Northern Alps and Mt. Fuji. The summit is easily accessible by Use Skylator escalator and Lift, and you can easily enjoy the spectacular view. It has been selected as one of the "100 Sunset Spots in Shinshu", and you can enjoy the golden sky and mountains of Shinshu. ◇ Shiga Kusatsu Highlands route It is a mountain sightseeing road that passes the Highest Point of the National Highway at an Elevation of 2,172 Meters, about 41 Kilometers connecting Yudanaka Shibu Hot Spring Village and Kusatsu Hot Spring in Gunma Prefecture. It is a popular Driving Route that is open from Spring to autumn, and you can see the Northern Alps, Mountains of Jyoshu, and Mt. Fuji from the roadside, and it is exhilarating to drive while admiring the beautiful scenery. Many tourists visit during the autumn autumn leaves season, and you can enjoy the spectacular view of the mountains dyed in red and yellow. ■■Gourmet Specialty products of Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture■■ ◇Oyaki Oyaki is a Local cuisine that Representatives Shinshu and is loved by many people in Yamanouchi Town. The Oyaki, which is made by wrapping ingredients such as Standard Nozawana and eggplant in a flour crust and baking or steaming, has a simple but deep There are taste. Seasonal Oyaki using Local Agricultural Products is also available. ◇Pottery pottery is a traditional Yamanouchi Town craft made by drying Mulberry and Persimmon tree Nature for about 3 to 5 years, processing it into a teacup, etc., and carefully polishing it. ◇Sukagawa Bamboo Crafts It is a traditional craft designated by the governor of Nagano Prefecture with a history of about 280 years and a Bamboo Crafts using Nemagari bamboo that grows wild in the Yamanouchi Town of Nagano Prefecture. Bamboo crafts, where Craftsmanship and Sense shine, are simple, Restrooms available, beautiful, and practical. And it is also popular as a souvenir and is recommended as a One of a kind that can be used for a long time. ◇ Popular thank-you gift for Furusato Nozei tax payment Thereare local beers handmade with apples and peaches grown at the foothills of the Shiga Highlands, Shine Muscat, and spring water from the Shiga Highlands are popular. ■■Events in Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture■■ ◇Summer Festival YAMANOUCHI more and more Summer Festival YAMANOUCHI more and more is a popular summer Festival in Yamanouchi Town that is Held in every August. The Festival is a concerted effort by people from Local, and includes a variety of Events such as dancing and fireworks festival. In particular, the climactic fireworks are spectacular and brightly color the night sky of Yamanouchi Town. ◇Shiga Highlands Hill Climb It is a hill climb race aiming for the highest point of the national highway "Shibu Pass". Shibutoge Pass is said to be a sacred place for hill climbers, and Impression is the scenery of rich nature that changes with elevation in the 13 kilometers to the goal. At the Highest Point Stone Monument of the National Highway, you can also see the magnificent sea of clouds that spreads all over. ■■Tourist information in Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture■■ Yamanouchi Town in Nagano Prefecture is an attractive sightseeing spot where history, nature, and hot springs interwoven. Please visit Yamanouchi Town in Nagano Prefecture and experience the splendor of this place. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will provide Recommendations for Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture, so thank you!

Fisherman's Cafe Dogashima Shokudo Please enjoy fresh fish dishes while looking at Dogashima. Restrooms available with 2 dog-friendly seats. Homemade tokoroten All you can eat made by the owner with Amakusa harvested in Dogashima! When you order a meal, it comes free of charge. ■Address 2045-3 Nishina, Nishi-Izu Town, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka ■ Phone 0558-52-0134

Ushikitei - Restaurant with a view of the harbor Enjoy seafood dishes and "aloe soft serve ice cream" in a location overlooking the beautiful sea of Dogashima. Among them, the fisherman's dish "bukkake rice" is very popular. "Fisherman'bukkake s stone-grilled rice" and "Miso seared horse mackerel bukkake rice", etc., are unique to Uokitei, which Squid the taste of Township soil. The interior of the store is also made in the image of a fisherman's storehouse, and the view is right in front of the sea. ■Address 2052 Nishina, Nishi-Izu Town, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka ■ Phone 0558-52-0059

Hello! This is the Chino Tourism Organization. Chino City, Nagano Prefecture is a city located almost in the center of Nagano Prefecture, surrounded by high mountains. It is a popular Sightseeing spot about 2 hours by Train from Tokyo. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will provide you with recommended Tourist Information in Chino City, Nagano Prefecture, which is also popular as a resort area. Fun! ◆What is Chino City, Nagano Prefecture? ◆ Chino City in Nagano Prefecture is a city with a population of about 55,000 people rich in rich in nature surrounded by the beautiful mountains of the Yatsugatake mountain ranges. It is the gateway to climbing Yatsugatake and is loved by many tourists as a Sightseeing spot where you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons in a resort area with popular highlands such as Tateshina, Lake Shirakaba, and Kurumayama. Chino City, Nagano Prefecture is roughly divided into four tourist areas. ・Tateshina area There are a Highlands with an average Elevation of over 1,000 Meters and is a popular summer resort. Nature is a popular resort area with a wide range of natural views. ・Lake Shirakaba / Kurumayama area From the summit of Kurumayama, a superb 360-degree view Unfolds as far as the eye can see. Winter sports such as skiing can be enjoyed in winter, and activities such as canoeing and paragliding can be enjoyed in summer. Accommodations for hotels and pensions are also recommended, and it is also recommended as a base for sightseeing in Chino City. ・Yatsugatake area It is one of the one of the most mountain areas in Japan that requires the mountain "Yatsugatake", which Representatives Japan. There are a variety of Mountain Climbing Route and, and each route can enjoy it in its own way. ・Town and Satoyama Area You can experience the culture of Chino City, such as the scenery of agricultural village, historic temples and shrines, and museums around the station. ◆History of Chino City, Nagano Prefecture◆ Chino City has a long history and has been an area where many people have lived since the Jomon period. In particular, many Ruins from the Jomon period have been discovered, and it is said that it was a densely populated area of One of the best in Japan at that time, and is known as "Jomon no Sato". In addition, in the Edo period, it developed as a post town Kanazawa Lodging on the Koshu-kaido. Even today, there are many places where you can feel its history and culture, and it is used as a Tourist Resource. ◆Introduction to Sightseeing spots in Chino City, Nagano Prefecture◆ ・Venus Line Venus Line is a Driving Route connecting Chino City in Nagano Prefecture and Matsumoto City in Nagano Prefecture, where you can see spectacular views of Yatsugatake and Mount Tateshina. With a total length of about 88 km, this road is visited by many drivers and riders from Spring to autumn to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Especially the refreshing air of the Highlands in summer and the Autumn leaves in autumn are spectacular. ・Lake Shirakaba Lake Shirakaba is a four-Kilometers lake surrounded by birch trees located along the Venus Line where you can enjoy Seasonal Nature. Activities can be enjoyed throughout the year, such as boating and canoeing in the summer and skiing and snowboarding in the winter. There are also resort facilities and Hot Spring Restrooms available on the Lakeside, where you can spend a relaxing time. ・Kurumayama Kurumayama is a beautiful mountain with an Elevation of 1,925 Meters, Representative of Chino City. From the top of the mountain, a 360-degree panorama Unfolds as far as the eye can see, and on a clear day, you can see Mt. Fuji and the Southern Alps. The Mountain trail can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced climbers alike, Course and is ideal for Hiking and trekking. ・Kurumayama Highlands Kurumayama Highlands is a Highlands resort with beautiful Flowers and spectacular scenery in all four seasons. Especially in summer, the clumps of Cluster of Nikkoukisuge are spectacular, and many Squid and photography enthusiasts Visit. In addition, Kurumayama Highlands ski resorts are popular as a Spot where you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in winter. ・Mishaka Pond Surrounded by forests, fascinates people with a mirror-like beautiful water surface visit. This pond is also the motif of Higashiyama Kaii's famous painting "Green Echo", and many tourists visit it in search of its mysterious scenery. ・Tateshina Highlands Tateshina Highlands is an area where the beauty of Nature and resort facilities are in harmony. Hiking courses where you can enjoy the nature of the Seasonal Nature are popular, and it is especially crowded with tourists during the Fresh greenery in Spring and the Autumn leaves season in autumn. The Tateshina Hot Spring Village in Tateshina Highlands is dotted with many Hot Spring facilities to soothe the fatigue of the trip. ・Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway The Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway is a large 100-seater ropeway that spans between Kita-Yokodake and Mt. Shimagare at the northern end of Yatsugatake. Visit many tourists throughout the year because you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons. From the top of the ropeway, you can enjoy climbing that suits your travel plan, such as climbing for 2 days and 1 night Use One day hiking and mountain huts. ・Lake Tateshina Lake Tateshina is a beautiful lake surrounded by tranquil forests. Promenade is maintained along the Lakeside for about 1.5 kilometers, where you can enjoy a walk or a picnic. Fishing and boating are also popular, and you can spend a relaxing time in nature. ・ Rural life experience We also Restrooms available a sightseeing plan where you can experience country life at the home of a farmer Mr./Ms.. You can experience the life of Chino City, such as harvesting Highland vegetables, pickling Pickled nozawana, and making miso. It is also very popular with foreign tourists. ◆Festivals and Events in Chino City, Nagano Prefecture◆ ・Lake Shirakaba Summer Festival Fireworks Display Lake Shirakaba Summer Festival Fireworks Display is a festival Held in every summer and is visited by many tourists. About 1,500 fireworks launched from Lake Shirakaba color the night sky of Chino City. ・Chino Donban Chino Donban is a traditional festival in Chino City. Centered on the street from the east exit of Chino Station to the city hall, you can enjoy portable shrine and drum performances and dances. ・Onbashira Festival Onbashira Festival is a traditional Festival that Representative Nagano Prefecture once every seven years, and its official name is "Shikinen Zoei Mihashira Grand Festival". One of the highlights of this festival, "Falling of the Tree," is a Gobashira with a large number of Ujiko shrine parishioners on a steep slope of nearly 30 degrees. ◆Introducing Tourist Information of Chino City, Nagano Prefecture◆ Chino City in Nagano Prefecture is an attractive sightseeing spot surrounded by abundant nature. Chino City, with its beautiful seasonal scenery and outdoor activities, is an ideal sightseeing spot for Families and couples. Please visit Chino City and experience its charm!

Nice to meet you all and welcome to COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! It is an industry and tourism public corporation in Shinshu Nakano Industry & Tourism Public Corporation.. Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture is a city located in the northern part of Shinshu Nagano Prefecture, with a population of about 40,000 as of 2024. Thereare in Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture, is a spot rich in beautiful nature scenery and historical sights, and is popular with many tourists. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also known for their rich agricultural products. ■■■Access to Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture ◇ Tokyo - Access to Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture Automobile access: Nakano City is about 3 hours and 30 minutes away by car from Tokyo. The most common route is to take the Metropolitan Expressway Use Kan-etsu Expressway north, go via the Joshinetsu Automobile Expressway Shinshu and get off at the Nakano IC. Access by train: Access by train from Tokyo to Nakano City is best Used by Shinkansen. From Tokyo Station, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano Station, then transfer to Nagano Electric Railway and arrive at Shinshu Nakano Station in about 30 minutes. The total journey time is about 1 hour and 50 minutes. ■■■Popular Sightseeing spots in Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture ◇Ippongi Park Rose Park Ippongi Park is one of the Sightseeing spots Representative of Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture, and is famous for its beautiful roses in full bloom. Especially from Spring to early summer, 3,000 shares of about 850 species are in Best time to visit, and the entire park is enveloped in a gorgeous atmosphere. Events such as the "Nakano Rose Festival" are also Held in, and many tourists visit. ◇Reikanji Temple Musho Daishi Ancestral Hall Reikanji Temple is a historical Temple built in the Edo period and is considered one of the One of the three most sacred places in Japan. The Musho Daishi Ancestral Hall in front of the approach to the temple was built in 1959 to commemorate the 600th anniversary of Musou Taishi. Red and white azalea flowers bloom in May, delighting Worshippers. ◇Jorakuji Temple The current Main Hall was built in 1819, and the transom with eight carved scenes is designated as a tangible cultural property of Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture. In the arhat hall with a red roof, which stands out from a distance, 500 arhats are enshrinement in Hina-dan. ◇Higashiyama Park Higashiyama Park, which is about a 20-minute walk from the city center of Nakano City, is popular among citizens as a famous place for cherry blossoms. Spot with a panoramic view of Nakano City, it is ideal for walking and picnics. ◇Takayashiro, Viewing Road The Takayashiro, Viewing Road offers beautiful views of the Chikuma River, Five Mountains of Northern Shinshu and Nakano City. Visit Visit especially in autumn because the autumn leaves are beautiful. ◇Tatsuyuki Tatsuno Memorial Hall / Hometown Bridge It is a memorial hall that conveys the achievements of Tatsuyuki Tatsuno, who created famous songs such as "Hometown". The hometown Bridge is located near the memorial hall, There is a there is a "hometown" melody Panel installed on the parapet, so you can cross the bridge while listening to the melody. ◇Clay Doll Painting Experience You can experience painting clay doll paintings that have been loved by the locals for a long time as local toys in Nakano City at the Japanese Clay Doll Museum. You can color your favorite dolls such as puppies, sitting rabbits, moon rabbits, and beckoning cats. beckoning cat is also popular with foreign tourists visiting Japan as There are "Lucky Cat". ■■■Events and Festivals in Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture ◇Nakano Gion Festival Nakano Gion Festival is a traditional Festival that is Held in every July. It is a historic festival that originated from a horse-riding event held about 500 years ago. portable shrine and the Great Lion Procession procession the city, allowing locals and tourists alike to come together for fun. There are many stalls and Stalls lined up, and a lively atmosphere is Unfolds. ◇Nakano Shon Shon Festival On the main street of Nakano City, you can enjoy dancing by dancers and participants dressed in various costumes. It is a festival where you can jump in and participate. ■■■Specialty products of Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture ◇ Enokitake Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture is famous as a production area for enokitake mushrooms. Fresh Naenokitake mushrooms are widely used not only in Local cuisine but also throughout the country. ◇ Apples Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture is also known as a production area of apples, which boasts one of the highest production volumes in Japan, and produces fragrant and flavorful apples. Local farmers painstakingly grow apples that are highly regarded nationwide. ■■■Tourist Information of Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture! Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture is a Mr./Ms. Sightseeing spot with beautiful Nature, rich history, and fascinating Sightseeing spot and events. Please visit Nakano City, Nagano Prefecture and have a wonderful experience that will remain in your memory. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will send out Recommendations for Nakano City, so thank you!

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Shopping & Souvenirs: Yuuhi no Sato Local Products Center Yuuhi no Sato Local Products Center sits on the grounds of Gokase Winery In addition to freshly harvested morning vegetables brought in by local residents, the center offers a wide selection of kamairi tea and processed goods Hours: 9:00–17:00 Closed: Thursdays Contact: 0982-73-5471

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Shopping and Souvenirs: Baba House Baba House sits on the grounds of Miyazaki Sabou. Here you can buy Miyazaki Sabou tea and sweets from Baba Club. Contact 4805-4 Kuwanochi, Gokasecho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture 882-1202 Phone: 0982-82-0211

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Shopping & Souvenirs: Gokase Winery Wine Hall At Gokase Winery, we use 100% grapes grown by local farmers who work closely with the region’s strict yet generous natural environment. These proud wines are gathered in the Wine Hall. Niagara Premium, the Wine Hall’s exclusive, ages Niagara grapes in tanks to develop a calm aroma and a smooth taste, and it is our number one favorite. Hours: 9:30–17:00 Closed: during the New Year holidays Contact: Phone number: 0982-73-5477

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Shopping & Souvenirs Speciality Center Gokase Located along National Route 218 on the border between Miyazaki Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture, Speciality Center Gokase Local specialties from Gokasecho and fresh vegetables grown by nearby farmers are displayed here. In the diner you can enjoy Gokase udon or soba topped with a whole simmered yamame trout in sweet soy glaze, and Tokuhoru-don, which won the grand prize at the Miyazaki B-grade Gourmet Contest. Hours of operation Shop: 9:00–18:00 Diner: 11:00–16:00 Closed days Shop: Open year-round Diner: During the New Year holidays Contact Phone: 0982-82-1400 Fax: 0982-82-1252

Did you know Shiojiri is one of Japan’s top wine regions? Japan has about 400 to 500 wineries, and roughly 80 of them are in Nagano Prefecture. Shiojiri City has the most wineries in the prefecture, with 15 operating producers. Some of these wineries have operated for more than a century since the Meiji era, while others are brand new, founded in the Reiwa era; each of the 15 crafts wines with its own distinct character. There is even a high school in Shiojiri that makes wine, giving students the chance to learn winemaking while still in school. What makes the wine industry so vibrant here is the ideal growing environment: at about 700 meters elevation the large day–night temperature swings and long hours of sunlight, combined with gravelly and volcanic-ash soils, create perfect conditions for growing grapes. High-quality grapes from this land produce high-quality wines. Among the wines made in Shiojiri, merlot earns especially high praise. In 1989 a merlot from the area won a major gold award at a prestigious international competition. The annual Shiojiri Winery Festa draws visitors from across Japan who sample wines from all over Shiojiri, often drinking to their heart’s content. Please try Shiojiri wine.

Hello! This is the Uenohara City Tourism Association. Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Uenohara City is a city with a population of about 22,000 located in the easternmost part of Yamanashi Prefecture. It is about 1 hour easily accessible from Shinjuku, Tokyo by Use the JR Chuo Line and Chuo Expressway, so it is an ideal area for Day Trip from Tokyo Central Tokyo. In this COOL JAPAN VIDEOS First Post, we will introduce some of the attractions of Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture. Please enjoy it until the end. What is ==Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture? == Uenohara City was established in 2005 by the merger of Uenohara Town in Kitatsuru-gun District and Akiyama Village in Minamitsuru-gun District. Surrounded by Yaeyama, Yougai Mountain, Ougiyama, Tsuboyama, Mt.Takatsuka, and Mt. Mito Spring Uenohara City offers spectacular views of nature throughout summer, autumn, and winter. One of the attractions of Uenohara City is that you can experience various outdoor activities such as mountain climbing, camping, fishing, horseback riding, sports, and hot springs. In addition, Momotaro has a strong image of Okayama, but Uenohara City, along with neighboring Otsuki City, also has the "Legend of Otsuki Uenohara Momotaro". Onigashima is Mt. Iwadono in present-day Otsuki City, and there is a legend that Momotaro followed a dog in Uenohara Town, and the place name of Dangozaka is also said to be derived from the legend of Momotaro "Dango". ==Introduction to Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture Tourist Destinations== ・Guntori Shrine It is a shrine with a history of 500 years and is famous as the god of good fortune and Marriage. In addition, since there is a benefit of luck in victory, sports players such as soccer teams also Visit to Prayer in the hope of winning. ・Ichinomiya Shrine Ichinomiya Shrine is surrounded by Cedar trees that are more than 500 years old. It is a shrine with a history that is said to have been founded in 1343. ・Gongen Mountain It is a mountain with an elevation of 1312 meters and has been selected as one of the 100 famous mountains of Yamanashi Hundred Famous Mountains and the three mountains of Kitatsuru. From the top, you can overlook Mount Doshi, Mt. Fuji, Mt. Mitsutoge, and Mt. Undori. ・Mt. Mito It is a mountain with a Elevation of 1,531 meters that spans Okutama Town, Tokyo, Hinohara Village, Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture, and Kosuge Village, Kitatsuru-gun, and has been selected as a Three Hundred Famous Mountains of Japan, Yamanashi Hundred Famous Mountains, and One Hundred Famous Mountains of Flowers. There are three peaks, the West Peak, the Central Peak, and the East Peak, which is the origin of the name "Mt. Mito". ・Ougiyama It is one of the "top 3 popular mountains" along the JR Chuo Main Line. There is also a mountain trail that even beginners can enjoy. ・Pilgrimage to the Holy Land in Uenohara City Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture was used in the filming of Juzo Juzo's 1984 film "Funeral," while the city's Former Shimada Junior High School was used in the filming of the short drama "My Beautiful Man," which aired in 2023, and a commercial for a famous fast-food restaurant. These filming locations have become popular Spots for fans as a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. ==Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture Specialty Products== Uenohara City is famous for its Specialty Products such as Cereals and Sake Manju. In particular, locally Cultivated millet is known for its high nutritional value and good flavor, and is supported by health-conscious people. Sake Manju is also characterized by its unique sweetness and moist texture, which is appreciated by Visitors. ==Introduction of festivals and events in Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Uenohara City Prefecture== ・Tsukimigaike Benzaiten Festival It is a festival of Benten-sama enshrined in Tsukimigaike every year in July. Visit the Lantern floating and Noryo Fireworks Display held from dusk are visited by many spectators. ・Ushikura Shrine Annual Grand Festival It is a festival held every year in September to give thanks to the gods of agriculture. Mikoshi portable shrines and festival floats procession through the city, making it lively. ・Koshu Meat and Wine Festival Stalls of more than 50 stores and more than 200 brands of wine can be enjoyed at Special venues around JR Uenohara Station for the second time in 2024. It is a popular event that is visit by many people from Central Tokyo. ==Introduction to Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture== There are many historic shrines in Uenohara City, and there are many Spots where you can feel the history, such as the giant Japanese Judas tree at Guntori Shrine and the giant cedar tree at Ichinomiya Shrine. It is also recommended to visit these spots and think about history. Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture is a town with a rich Rich in nature environment and a deep history. We will introduce recommended Spots that will remain in everyone's memory, so thank you.

Nice to meet Mr./Ms. everyone! This is the Fujikawa Development Corporation. Fujikawa Town, Yamanashi Prefecture is a town of about 14,000 people located in Minamikoma-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan. Located in the southwestern part of the Kofu Basin, it is a Rich in nature area where one of the Two Hundred Famous Mountains of Japan Mt. Kushigatayama on the west side and the Fuji River, one of the three major rapids Japan, stream on the east side. Fujikawa Town flourished as a post town for Fuji River boat transportation during the Edo period, and many travelers visited this area. In addition, many old shrines and temples Restrooms available in the Fujikawa Town, and Kongozan Myouji Temple is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. These historic buildings convey the long history and culture of Fujikawa Town to the present day. ==Introduction to Sightseeing spots in Fujikawa Town, Yamanashi Prefecture== ・Oboshi Park It is a famous place for cherry blossoms that has been selected as a "Japan 100 best cherry blossom viewing spots". 2,000 cherry trees bloom in Springs. Oyanagawa Valleys Promenade You can enjoy the beautiful nature of the four seasons, such as fresh greenery and autumn leaves. ・Himuro Shrine Elevation is a shrine located in 1000 meters, and you have to climb 575 long stairs to Prayer to the main hall. ・Mt.Hoda Nanmyoji Temple It is a historic temple built in 1480. ・Myohoji Temple It is also known as "Hydrangea Temple" or "Haiku Temple", and from the end of June to the beginning of July, 20,000 hydrangeas bloom all over the Precincts. ==Specialty products of Fujikawa Town, Yamanashi Prefecture== Fujikawa Town's Specialty Products include yuzu and La France, Restrooms available. These Specialty Products are nurtured by the rich nature of Fujikawa Town, and you can enjoy their Fresh taste. Roadside Station Fujikawa is lined with these fresh agricultural products and specialty products, so it is also recommended as a souvenir. ==Recommendations for Fujikawa Town, Yamanashi == The Linear Central Shinkansen Line tunnel Penetration memorial "Penetration stone" in the thank-you gift of the Fujikawa Town Furusato Nozei has become a popular item. Fujikawa Town is a Town where people who visit it can truly enjoy peace and Impression thanks to its beautiful nature, rich history, and delicious Specialty Products. Enjoy a journey of nature, history, and gastronomy in Fujikawa Town, Yamanashi Prefecture. Fun will be sending out Recommendations for Fujikawa Town at COOL JAPAN VIDEOS!

Nice to meet you! Shinshu Shinano Town Tourist Association. Shinanomachi, Kamisuunai-gun, Nagano Prefecture is a town in northern Nagano Prefecture that borders Niigata Prefecture. Its population is about 7,000. Surrounded by mountains such as Myoko, Kurohime, Togakushi, Iizuna, and Madarao, the town also boasts many popular attractions like Lake Nojiri and Kurohime Plateau. On Cool Japan Video, we will share recommended sightseeing information for Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture, known as the hometown of Kobayashi Issa. Thank you for your support. ◆What is Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture? ◆ In winter, Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture welcomes visitors with superb powder snow. Popular ski areas such as Kurohime Kogen Ski Resort, Myoko, and Madarao Kogen make this region ideal for winter sports. It is also popular with international visitors from countries including Australia and Taiwan. Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture is broadly divided into four areas. ◎ Kurohime Highland area ◎ Tangram Madarao Area ◎ Kashiwabara and Fujisato area ◎ Lake Nojiri area ◆Recommended sightseeing spots in Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture, by area◆ ~~~ Kurohime Highland area ~~~ Kurohime Highland lets you fully enjoy nature typical of Nagano Prefecture: dahlias and cosmos in summer, and powder-snow skiing in winter. ◎ Kurohime Fairy Tale Museum & Fairy Tale Forest Gallery The Kurohime Fairy Tale Museum blends literature, art, and nature. It houses and exhibits valuable materials by Michael Ende and Miyoko Matsutani, beloved across generations, as well as fairy tales and picture books from around the world and local folktales. ◎ Kurohime Highland Dog Run This expansive all-grass dog run covers about 3,000 square meters. Built to take advantage of the natural hills, it is enjoyable for dogs from small to large breeds. ◎ Kurohime Highland Cosmos Garden The Kurohime Highland Cosmos Garden is filled with beautiful cosmos flowers from summer into autumn. The colorful fields of cosmos spread across the vast plateau like a painting. The garden offers an observation deck and walking paths, so you can relax and enjoy the flowers at your own pace. ◎ MtKurohime MtKurohime is a symbolic mountain of Shinanomachi, with an elevation of 2,053 meters. Trails are well maintained, offering enjoyment for beginners through advanced hikers. From the summit, a 360-degree panorama opens up, and on clear days you can see distant mountain ranges. MtKurohime showcases seasonal nature and is an attractive spot for hikers and mountain enthusiasts. ◎ Naena Falls Naena Falls is one of Shinanomachi’s representative scenic spots. With a dramatic drop of 55 meters, the waterfall’s majestic scenery captivates visitors. Walking paths are developed around the area, allowing you to stroll while listening to the roar of the falls. In particular, the autumn foliage season creates a spectacular contrast between colorful leaves and the waterfall. ~~~ Tangram Madarao Area ~~~ This area is popular as a resort area. It offers many amenities such as golf courses and hot spring facilities. ◎ Mt. Madarao (Madarao-yama / Madarao-san) A volcano with an elevation of 1,382 meters, it is one of the Five Mountains of Northern Shinshu (MtMyoko, Mt. Madarao, MtKurohime, MtTogakushi, Mt. Iizuna). At the summit there is a shrine housing 13 statues of Nyorai. ~~~ Kashiwabara and Fujisato area ~~~ This is the hometown of haiku poet Kobayashi Issa. Within the area are the Issa Memorial Hall and Issa’s former residence, where you can learn about his life and history. ◎ Issa Memorial Hall A museum built to commemorate the haiku poet Kobayashi Issa, who was born in Kashiwabara, Shinanomachi. It presents many of his works and portrays Issa’s life and the Kashiwabara of his era. ◎ Michi-no-Eki Shinano Furusato Tenboukan Michi-no-Eki Shinano Furusato Tenboukan provides tourist information and local products from Shinanomachi. In addition to local specialties and souvenirs from Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture, you can enjoy fresh local produce and handmade goods. ~~~ Lake Nojiri area ~~~ In summer on Lake Nojiri you can enjoy activities such as kayaking, SUP, and cruises. ◎ Lake Nojiri Naumann Elephant Museum This museum showcases fossils of Naumann elephants discovered at Lake Nojiri and life-size models, offering many attractions. Centered on the results of the more than 40-year-long Lake Nojiri excavations, it researches and exhibits the natural environment around the lake from about 50,000 years ago to the present. ◎ Lake Nojiri At the lakeside you can enjoy boating, fishing, canoeing, and other outdoor activities. In summer, swimming and camping are popular, making it a recommended spot for families and couples. The lake is also historically significant for the Naumann elephant fossils recovered from its bed, allowing visitors to enjoy nature and history together. ◎ Shomyoji Temple Located quietly in the mountain valley, its precincts are surrounded by seasonal nature. In spring, the weeping cherry blossoms bloom beautifully, attracting many visitors. ◆Recommended activities in Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture◆ ◎ Rental bicycles in Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture During the green season when the ski resorts are closed, sightseeing by relaxed cycling while feeling the breeze of Shinanomachi is recommended. The town offers rental bicycles at three locations: the information center in front of Kurohime Station (Shinano Town Tourist Association), LAMP Lake Nojiri, and Nojiri Lake Resort. ◎ Minpaku and farm stays in Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture About 3,000 elementary and junior high school students visit annually to experience farm and rural life through homestays and farm stays. The local government and residents have established a solid reception system. ◆Local specialties of Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture◆ Crops such as corn, tomatoes, bell peppers, eggplants, and soba are local specialties of Shinanomachi. Shinanomachi is one of the leading paddy monoculture areas in the northern Nagano region, and locally grown Akita Komachi and Koshihikari rice are also popular. ◆Festivals and events in Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture◆ ◎ Lake Nojiri Fireworks Festival About 2,000 fireworks are launched from Lake Nojiri. In 2024 this beloved local event will celebrate its landmark 100th edition. ◆Tourist information for Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture◆ Shinanomachi is a town blessed with rich nature, history, and warm people. With seasonal landscapes and outdoor activities, Shinanomachi is an ideal destination for families and couples. We will continue to share recommended sightseeing information for Shinanomachi, Nagano Prefecture, so we appreciate your support.

How do you do. This is the Minami-Shinshu Tourism Public Corporation! We will send out recommended Tourist Information in the Minami Shinshu area of Nagano Prefecture on COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, so thank you. ---- What is the Minami Shinshu area in Nagano Prefecture? The Minami Shinshu area is located at the southern tip of Nagano Prefecture and is the southern gateway to the prefecture. It is a beautiful region where you can feel the rich nature of the four seasons created by the Tenryu River, which streams from north to south through the center of Minami Shinshu, the Central Alps, and the majestic mountains of the Southern Alps. The Minami Shinshu area consists of 14 cities and towns in Iida City and Shimoina-gun. ⚪︎ Iida City ⚪︎ Matsukawa Town ⚪︎ Takamori Town ⚪︎ Anan Town ⚪︎ Achi Village ⚪︎ Hiraya Village ⚪︎ Neba Village ⚪︎ Shimojo Village ⚪︎ Sellaki Village ⚪︎ Tenryu Village ⚪︎ Yasuoka Village ⚪︎ Takagi Kimura ⚪︎ Toyooka Village ⚪︎ Ōshika Village History of ---- Minami Shinshu area From the Shiojiri Inn of Nakasendo, the Sanshu Highway Ina Highway, which goes south along the Minami Shinshu area along the Tenryu River, Restrooms available a history of prosperity as a Highway important places connecting Edo and Kyoto. Among them, Iida City, which is also the center of Minami Shinshu, currently boasts the fifth largest population in Nagano Prefecture, flourished as a post town on the Sanshu Highway in the Edo period, and developed as a castle town of the Iida Domain during the Sengoku period. Iida City, with its beautiful Towns Maintenance in a Go board shape and its culture inherited from ancient times, is called "Shinshu's Little Kyoto". Traditional culture and traditional crafts inherited in ---- Minami Shinshu area In the Minami Shinshu area, many traditional cultures such as kagura, puppets, Bon Odori, and festivals are still passed down, and it is said to be a treasure trove of folk performing arts. In addition, Minami Shinshu is a production area of Mizuhiki crafts, which accounts for 70% of the nation's production. Mizuhiki is a culture that has been in Minami Shinshu for more than 300 years, and is a decorative string used for the front of gift bags. Fruits of ---- Minami Shinshu area Specialty Products The Minami Shinshu area is a "treasure trove of fruits" where you can enjoy various fruit picking throughout the four seasons. We will introduce the Representative Fruit Picking and its charm of Minami-Shinshu, a fruit kingdom that boasts the one of the most production volume in Japan, with terrain suitable for fruit production, such as abundant sunshine hours and temperature differences between day and night. ・Cherry picking Cherry picking in Minami Shinshu can be enjoyed in early summer. You can pick and taste the red ripe high-grade fruit cherries on the spot, and their sweetness and juiciness are exceptional. ・Pear picking Pear picking can be enjoyed from late summer to autumn. Fresh pears can be picked on the spot and enjoy the fresh taste. Minami Shinshu pears have a strong sweet taste and a crunchy texture. ・Apple picking Minami Shinshu is one of the one of the most apple cultivation areas in Japan. During the autumn harvest season, many people from all over the country visit in search of apples from Minami Shinshu. You can pick and taste the bright red ripe apples yourself, and their mellow aroma and sweetness are attractive. In addition, you can enjoy "Strawberry picking", "Grape picking", "Blueberry picking", and "Peach picking", and you can enjoy taste hunting such as "bamboo shoot picking" and "chestnut picking" other than fruits. ----Summary The Minami Shinshu area is a place where nature and history are in harmony. Hiking and camping in the great Nature are also recommended! There is also a night tour to see the starry sky in Achi Village, which is said to be the best starry sky in Japan. There are many ways to enjoy the Minami Shinshu area, such as enjoying the food culture of Local agricultural products and Local cuisine, the spectacular scenery of the four seasons, and various activities! Visit the Minami Shinshu area, where nature and history are in harmony, and experience its charm. Beautiful nature and culture await you. Cool JAPAN VIDEOS will provide recommended Tourist Information for the Minami Shinshu area of Nagano Prefecture, so thank you!

The Katsura River streams through the area of Yamanashi Prefecture. This river is Famous for sweetfish anglers as a fishing Spot one of the most the Kanto region. On the other hand, the current situation is that it is not known to the general public. I want more people to know about the Katsura River and sweetfish, which are local tourist resources. And I want to revitalize and promote the region. Squid, we have developed Specialty Products. In particular, this sweetfish sandwich is a rare product that you should try at least once. Sweet and spicy honeydew stew, confit with olive oil and garlic, It is a set of 3 types of fried foods that are fried and entwined with sauce.

Koshu Katsuragawa sweetfish stewed with honeydew and confit. The Katsura River starts at At the foot of Mt. and stream the county area of Yamanashi Prefecture. In particular, the Katsura River, which stream through Uenohara City, is an important Tourist Resources that can be proud of both inside and outside the city, stream the sight of the spectacular scenery that you see is magnificent. In addition, since the Edo period, sweetfish from the Katsura River has gained popularity among people traveling along the Koshu-kaido as a Specialties of Uenohara. This sweetfish, which was once lost due to the construction of the Sagami Dam, has been revived in modern times thanks to the hard work of the Local Katsura River Fisheries Cooperative. Even now, many anglers visit the Katsura River during the season, bringing liveliness to the city. Using the wonderful scenery of the Katsura River and Uenohara's Specialties of Sweetfish as an opportunity, we would like to deliver the charm of the city to even more people. I want to liven up the community. Specialty products have been developed from such thoughts.

The Azumino City Tourism Association, a public interest incorporated association, shares the present charm of Azumino, a garden city spreading at the foot of the Northern Alps. Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture sits near the center of Nagano, nestled between Matsumoto to the south and Hakubamura to the north. Home to Japan’s largest wasabi fields and blessed with clear water and air, Azumino promotes its appeal through Cool Japan videos. [What is Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture?] Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture is a city surrounded by the mountains of the Northern Alps and blessed with beautiful nature. Its population is about 92,000 (April 2024), and it is a place where history and culture live alongside a rich natural environment. The city’s seasonal scenery enchants visitors, especially cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn foliage, and snowy landscapes in winter. Since around the Meiji era, wasabi cultivation has flourished here. That tradition continues today, and Azumino is known as one of Japan’s leading wasabi-producing regions. [Notable sightseeing spots in Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture] ・Daio Wasabi Farm Daio Wasabi Farm is one of Azumino’s signature tourist attractions. Spanning an area equivalent to more than ten Tokyo Domes, it is one of Japan’s largest wasabi farms, and its picturesque waterways are spectacular. Visitors can tour the wasabi fields and enjoy a variety of wasabi-based gourmet offerings. ・Hotaka Shrine Hotaka Shrine is said to be a power spot in Azumino. Historically worshipped as a guardian of the Japanese Alps, it is widely revered for traffic safety and industrial safety. ・National Alps Azumino Park (Horikane Hotaka area) This park is one of six national parks in the Kanto Koshinetsu region. It is a vast natural park popular with families and couples. The park features seasonal flower beds, playground equipment for children, barbecue areas, and day-camping zones. ・Azumino Chihiro Art Museum The Azumino Chihiro Art Museum exhibits the works of picture book artist Chihiro Iwasaki. Set in a quiet environment surrounded by beautiful nature, it offers a warm and comforting picture-book world. It is a soothing destination for families and art lovers. ・Roadside Station Alps Azumino Horigane no Sato Located at the foot of the Northern Alps, this roadside station offers a wide selection of fresh, safe, and carefully made farm products. Local Azumino souvenirs focused on fresh vegetables and fruits are recommended. ・Outdoor activities To fully enjoy Azumino, try activities such as clear stream boat rides, rafting, and clear-bottom boats. There are mountain-biking courses where you can ride while gazing up at the Northern Alps. Other options include horseback riding and F1, offering a variety of ways to have fun. ・Hands-on and indoor experiences A rich variety of hands-on programs is available, including soba noodle making, glassblowing, glass stamp making, pottery, and traditional chopstick crafting. Choose according to your interests and give them a try. ・Northern Alps mountaineering The Northern Alps comprise some of Japan’s premier mountain ranges, with peaks around 3,000 meters. Azumino City, located at the foothills of the Northern Alps, also serves as a recommended base for alpine climbing. It is known as a gateway to popular peaks featured among Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains such as MtJonen, Mt. Tsubakuro, MtYarigatake, and as a viewing point for the Hotaka Mountain Range from Mount Chō. [Specialties of Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture] ・Wasabi Azumino City is renowned as one of Japan’s top wasabi-producing areas. Clear water and a cool climate suit wasabi cultivation, and its quality is highly regarded both domestically and internationally. Enjoy wasabi-based dishes and processed products when you visit. ・Rainbow trout Rainbow trout farmed in Azumino’s pristine waters is another local specialty. In recent years, “Shinshu Salmon,” bred from rainbow trout and brown trout, has become popular. [Festivals and events in Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture] ・Ofune Festival The Ofune Festival, held every September, is a traditional event centered at Hotaka Shrine. Boat-shaped floats parade through the town as locals unite to enliven the festival. [Azumino City sightseeing recap] Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture is a region full of charm, surrounded by beautiful nature and rich history. Please visit Azumino City and experience its attractions for yourself. We will continue to share recommended sightseeing information and the latest updates so that Azumino can become a memorable page in your travel diary.

Hello! This is the Suwa Tourist Association. Suwa City in Nagano Prefecture sits at the heart of Nagano Prefecture. The area offers beautiful natural scenery such as Lake Suwa and Kirigamine, along with rich history you can experience at sites like Takashima Castle and Suwa Grand Shrine. At Cool Japan Video, we share recommended sightseeing spots and the latest information about Suwa City, so please stay tuned! ◆◆About Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture Suwa City has a population of about 47,000 and is roughly a two-hour drive from the Tokyo metropolitan area. The Suwa Grand Shrine Upper Shrine and Lower Shrine, said to be one of Japan’s oldest shrines, attracts many visitors year-round. In the Edo period the city prospered as the castle town of the Takashima Domain, and in the Meiji period it grew into a global center of the sericulture industry. ◆◆Tourist Attractions in Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture ◇Suwa Grand Shrine This shrine is the head of Suwa Grand Shrine sites across Japan. The Upper Shrine is divided between Honmiya (Main Shrine) in Suwa City and Former Shrine in Chino City, while the Lower Shrine consists of Autumn Shrine and Harumiya in Shimosuwa Town, forming a two-shrine, four-shrines configuration. Built in the architectural style known as Suwa-zukuri, the shrine buildings are designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan, and the shrine forests are prefectural natural monuments. A popular sightseeing course is the pilgrimage visiting the four shrines known as the “Shisha Mairi.” ◇Takashima Castle and Takashima Park Built about 420 years ago, the castle is nicknamed the “Floating Castle of Suwa” because Lake Suwa’s waters once served as its moat. The present castle tower welcomes many visitors as a museum and observation deck. Takashima Park inside the castle grounds is also a popular cherry blossom viewing spot. ◇Lake Suwa Located almost at the center of Nagano Prefecture, Lake Suwa is the largest lake in Shinshu with a shoreline of about 16 kilometers. The lakeside offers pleasant walks and plenty to see, including the Harmo Museum of Art and SUWA Glass Village, one of the largest glass museums in Nagano Prefecture. ◇Kami-suwa Onsen This hot spring on the shores of Lake Suwa ranks among the nation’s top in daily spring output. A large number of hotels, ryokan, minshuku, and day-trip hot spring facilities allow visitors to plan their stay as they like. ◇Tateishi Park Perched on the hillside, the park overlooks Lake Suwa below. There’s even local talk that it inspired a movie setting. Tateishi Park is selected among the 100 Best Sunset Points in Shinshu and included in the New Three Major Night Views and Night View 100 selections. ◇Kirigamine Highlands Alpine plants color the highlands through the seasons. The panoramic views of Mount Fuji, the Alps, and the Yatsugatake Mountain Range provide unforgettable scenery. Kirigamine Ski Area within the highlands offers winter sports. ◇Nagano Prefectural Kirigamine Nature Conservation Center This prefectural visitor center in Yatsugatake Chushin Kogen National Park presents photos and panels to learn about the plants, animals, and history found on Kirigamine. ◇Suwa Gokura (Five Breweries of Suwa) Thanks to the spring water that wells up from the Kirigamine Highlands, the clear air, and the cool climate, Suwa City’s sake ranks among the top in Japan. Five breweries—the Suwa Gokura—stand in the city, and brewery-hopping tours to sample each sake are popular. ◆◆Local Specialties of Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture Suwa City produces a wide range of local specialties, including quince (marmelo) products, river fish products, sake, kanten (agar), and Shinshu miso, all grown and made locally. These items are known for their high quality and are highly regarded not only in local markets but across Japan. ◆◆Festivals and Events in Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture ◇Onbashira Festival at Suwa Grand Shrine This traditional ritual of Suwa Grand Shrine has been handed down for over 1,200 years and takes place every seven years in the years of the Tiger and Monkey. During Onbashira, sixteen fir trees over 17 meters tall are raised by hand at the four corners of the shrine buildings. The next festival will be held in 2028. ◇Suwa Lake Festival Fireworks Display on Lake Suwa Held annually on August 15, spectacular fireworks launched from platforms set on Hatsushima on Lake Suwa paint the lake with brilliant color. This is one of the nation’s largest fireworks festivals, attracting about 500,000 spectators each year. ◆◆Sharing Tourist Information about Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture Suwa City is a region rich in charm woven from its history, nature, and culture. Visit Suwa City to immerse yourself in Japanese history, surround yourself with great nature, and enjoy moments of pure bliss. At Cool Japan Video, we will continue to share recommended information about Suwa City, so please look forward to it.

Nice to meet you! This is the Iijima Town Tourism Association. Iijimamachi, Kamiina County, Nagano Prefecture is a town of about 8,900 people located in the center of the Inadani Valley in southern Nagano Prefecture. To the west lies the Central Alps and to the east the Southern Alps, making it a town where you can see two mountain ranges. On the Cool Japan video channel, we will share recommended and up-to-date information about Iijima Town in Nagano Prefecture, so please stay tuned! ◇◇What is Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture? Iijima Town is home to two nationally famous fireworks makers. In spring there is the Senninzuka Water Fireworks Festival, summer brings event fireworks, in September–October there are weekly votive fireworks, and on New Year’s Day there is the New Year's Eve Fireworks Festival. Fireworks are a familiar presence in the lives of Iijima residents throughout the year. Also, straw work (wara-zaiku) has been passed down through generations as a traditional craft. Straw work made in Iijima Town is famous nationwide and contributes to making sumo wrestling ring straw bales and ceremonial shimenawa ropes for well-known shrines. In recent years Iijima Town has attracted attention as a comfortable place to live, and the number of people moving here has increased. ◇◇Tourist attractions in Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture [Mt. Karakasa] This 1,542-meter mountain had two trails developed in 2013. From the lookout and the summit you can enjoy spectacular views of the Southern Alps. [Campsites in Iijima Town] Iijima Town has three campsites, so choose the one that fits your plans and enjoy. ・Senninzuka Park Campsite Located in the Shichikubo district, this nature park offers camping, SUP, fishing, trekking, and many activities to enjoy the rich outdoors. ・Inaka no Kaze Campsite Experience farm activities and beetle hunting to fully feel the great outdoors. ・Yodagiri Park Campsite This site also has sports facilities such as tennis courts and a pool. The natural spring in the park, Kosumo no Mizu, was selected as one of Shinshu’s 15 notable and secret waters. [Roadside Station Hana-no-Sato Iijima] Fresh local vegetables line the stalls, and you can also enjoy meals. You can take in sweeping views of the Central Alps and the Southern Alps. [Roadside Station Tagirino Sato] This roadside station offers many products showcasing Iijima Town’s natural bounty, letting you feel the charm of Minami Shinshu Iijima Town. The takeout soft serve ice cream is very popular. ◇◇Local specialties of Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture Alps Salmon, large rainbow trout raised in alpine spring water, is richly flavored and superbly fatty. The town also has many soba restaurants where you can enjoy authentic hand-made soba. ◇◇Festivals and events in Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture [Shinshu Ijima Wind Road Wind Chime Festival] In 2023 this event set a Guinness World Record for the largest number of displayed wind chimes. Ten thousand wind chimes created a cool, ringing sound across the venue. Many food stalls line the site, and a special stage features guests selected each year to match the festival’s concept. [Iijima Town Rice Bale Marathon] In this rice-producing town, a marathon carrying rice bales is held. The 2023 event marked the 11th running and, as usual, registration fills up immediately when applications open, making it a very popular event. ◇◇Recommended information about Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture Iijima Town offers stunning natural beauty, a rich history, and warm local events that make it an appealing destination. Please come and enjoy a relaxing time in Iijima Town. We will continue to share tourism information about Iijima Town on this account, so please follow us.

HELLO VIEWERS OF COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! This is the Shinshu Toumi Tourism Association. Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture is a city in the eastern part of Nagano Prefecture. Surrounded by the Asama mountain range of Joshinetsu Kogen National Park to the north and Tateshina and Yatsugatake to the south, it is an area rich in Rich in nature, with more than half of the city being mountain forests and one-fourth being fields. The city was created in 2002 by the merger of Higashimomachi and Kitamomaki Village, and became "Tomi City" by taking one letter each of the Omi of Higashimomachi "east" and Kitamomaki Village. There is the Joshinetsu Expressway "Tobu Yunomaru Interchange" and the Shinano Railway "Tanaka Station" and "Shigeno Station", and it is about 2 hours from Central Tokyo and about 1 hour from Nagano City and Matsumoto City. ==Recommended sightseeing spots in Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== ・Unno Yado Opened in 1625 as a Shukuba-juku on the Kitakuni Highway, it is a tourist destination that still retains its original appearance. You can feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Edo period. ・Myojin Pond It is a pond built in the Edo period, and it is Maintenance as an Art Village Park centered on the pond, and you can see the beautiful scenery of the four seasons such as New green and autumn leaves in the Satoyama. There are facilities in the park such as the Umeno Memorial Picture Gallery and the Fureaikan. ・Unnojyuku History and Folklore Museum The building built around 1790 in the Edo period is still used as a Documents Museum. The climate, history, and documents of Unno Yado are on display ・Roadside Station Raiden Walnut Village At the Roadside Station at the entrance to Yunomaru Highland, you can enjoy a meal that makes use of hand-made soba "Inutate Soba" and local ingredients at the restaurant. Local agricultural products and specialty products are lined up, so it is also recommended to buy Souvenirs for sightseeing in Tomi City. ・Yunomaru Ski Resort It is the closest powder snow ski resort to Central Tokyo, and the six slopes can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced skiers. The business period is from late November to early April every year. ・Yunomaru Plateau It is a plateau located on the west side of the Asama mountain ranges, and the Renge azalea of Azalea Plain is also designated as a national natural monument. Every year, when the Renge azalea is in full bloom, the "Yunomaru Kogen Azalea Festival" is held. ・Yurakuchi-kan Wine & Beer Museum It is a facility where you can experience Tomi Wine, such as an exhibition room that introduces the history of Tomi Wine, winery Information in Tomi City, grape cultivation amount, etc., and a tasting area and wine sales centered on Tomi City wine. A wine concierge is also available, so be sure to find your favorite wine. ==Specialty products and gourmet foods of Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== Kyoho grapes, walnuts, sweet corn, Shirado potatoes, and broccoli are specialty products of Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture. These specialty products are also popular as thank-you gifts for roadside stations and Furusato Nozei tax payments. In addition, wineries are being born one after another in Tomi City, and wine taxis are also operated to visit wineries in the city. ==Events and festivals in Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== ・Raiden Festival It is a major summer event in Tomi City held at Tanaka Shopping Street, and there are performances and dances on stage, and many Kitchen Cars are lined up in the shopping street. At the climax, the festivals are enlivened by a dance parade. ・Unno Yado Fureai Festival It is a festival held every November at Uminojuku, Old Kitakuni Highway, Unno Juku, and a procession dressed in Edo period costumes parades through the city. The buildings and gardens of Unno Yado, which you cannot usually see, will be opened. ==Agricultural experience in Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== The idyllic atmosphere of Tomi City, with its fields spread all around, is difficult to enjoy in the Central Tokyo. There is also a travel plan where you can enjoy farming experience while interacting with the warm and friendly people of Tomi City. Even if you visit sightseeing for the first time in Tomi, the local staff will support you so that you can participate with peace of mind. Agricultural experience plans include "Rice cultivation", "Apple cultivation", "Corn harvesting experience", and "Traditional Japanese straw raincoat harvesting experience". ==Recommended Information for Tomi City, Nagano Prefecture== The Nature of the Tomi City and the atmosphere of the historic city Fascination those who visit. Please feel the charm of Tomi City firsthand. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will provide recommended Information that will help you plan your trip to Tomi City.

This is the Iwata City Tourism Association. Nice to meet you all!! Iwata City in Shizuoka Prefecture sits in western Shizuoka roughly midway between Tokyo and Osaka. Known as a “sports town,” it hosts professional teams such as J.League soccer club Jubilo Iwata, Nadeshiko League women’s soccer team Shizuoka SSU Bonita, and Japan Rugby League One’s Shizuoka Blue Revs. The city actively promotes community-building through sports and health initiatives centered on athletics. ◆What is Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture?◆ The population is about 160,000. The city has interchanges on both the Tomei Expressway and the Shin-Tomei Expressway, making it about a three-hour drive from Tokyo and about 1 hour 15 minutes from Nagoya. The shinkansen gateways are Hamamatsu Station or Kakegawa Station; transfer to the Tokaido Line and reach Iwata’s three city stations (Iwata Station, Toyodachou Station, Mikurigaoka Station) in 10–15 minutes. Since ancient times, Iwata has flourished as the center of Toei Province, home to the Tōtōmi Kokubun-ji and Toei Kokubu. With more than 900 kofun (ancient burial mounds) dating to the Kofun period, the city carries a long, living history. In the Edo period it prospered as Mitsuke inn (Mitsuke-juku), a post town on the Tokaido’s Fifty-Three Stations. In recent years, Iwata has developed as an industrial city with traditional textiles plus metalworking, automotive, and musical instrument industries. Its agricultural output ranks among the top in the prefecture, famous for greenhouse melons, tea, white leek, ebi-imo (taro), Chinese vegetables, and seafood such as shirasu. The city balances urban and rural development. ◆Tourist attractions in Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture◆ [Mitsuke inn] Located near the midpoint of the Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido (the 28th post town), this post town still preserves small side alleys off the highway, with many shrines and temples that evoke the former atmosphere and lodging-town charm. The area also features the Former Mitsuke School, Japan’s oldest surviving wooden pseudo-Western style school building, and Iwata Bunko (both national historic sites); Mitsuke Tenjin Yanahiru Shrine, the stage of the Mitsuke Tenjin Hadaka Festival and the site of the Shippeitaro spirit legend; and the Former Akamatsu Residence Memorial Hall, designated as prefectural and municipal cultural properties. In 2022, the Former Mitsuke School and Iwata Bunko were recognized as Shizuoka Heritage sites, celebrated as ‘‘the crystallization of Shizuoka people’s passion for modern education,’’ alongside Mitsuke inn and Mitsuke Tenjin Yanahiru Shrine. [Ryuyo Marine Park] A seaside park featuring a marine center with sports facilities and a multi-purpose lawn. The expansive grounds include tennis courts, baseball fields, a playground, a roller slide, and an auto camp ground, making it family-friendly. The adjacent Shiosai Ryuyo complex at the auto camp ground sells local products and offers a restaurant, BBQ facilities, and bathing amenities. The marine center also offers hands-on experiences such as stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). [Nagisa no Koryukan and Fukuda Fishing Port area] Nagisa no Koryukan sits within Fukuda Fishing Port, looking out over the vast Enshū Sea. It has a food court where you can enjoy fresh shirasu bowls, such as raw shirasu don and kama-age shirasu don, while gazing at the ocean. The area also features the “Minna no Sunaba” sand ground for beach soccer and beach volleyball and an event plaza for outdoor gatherings. A nearby fishing spot offers easy shore fishing, and adjacent Toyohama Coast is a surfing location that has hosted national competitions thanks to its excellent waves. Fukuda Fishing Port is known for shirasu fishing and also supports recreational fishing charters, serving as a base for offshore fishing in the Enshū Sea. Within one to two minutes from the port, several shirasu processing plants line up, attracting customers from far away. [Shishigahana Park] According to legend, Kobo Daishi founded this park, which has well-maintained walking trails and athletic play areas. In spring, cherry blossoms and azaleas bloom; in early summer you can enjoy fresh greenery for forest bathing and birdwatching; in autumn the foliage is beautiful. It’s ideal for hiking and walking. From the observation deck you can see the Enshū Sea in the distance, and the park is a popular spot to watch the first sunrise on New Year’s Day. [Yamaha Stadium] [Yamaha Motor Communication Plaza] Yamaha Stadium is the home ground for Jubilo Iwata (soccer) and Shizuoka Blue Revs (rugby). It is about a 15-minute walk from JR Mikuriya Station north exit, and on match days attracts many fans from Japan and abroad. Next to the stadium, within the Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. headquarters, the Communication Plaza corporate museum showcases Yamaha Motor products and history and serves as an engaging industrial tourism spot. [Ruins of Tōtōmi Kokubunji Temple] Excavations began in 1951, and the site was designated a Special National Historic Site the following year. The kokubunji layout once centered on a main hall (kondo) and included a seven-story pagoda, lecture hall, middle gate, and cloister. Major structures, including the seven-story pagoda site, were discovered, and the site received national special historic designation in Showa 27 (1952). In fiscal 2022 work restored the wooden foundation platforms for the lecture hall and monk’s quarters on the north side of the ruins, and in fiscal 2023 the wooden foundation platform of the main hall was restored. Plans call for reconstructing cornerstone stones that supported building pillars and the stone steps placed on the front of the platform. This valuable heritage testifies to Iwata’s role as a regional center. ◆Local specialties of Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture◆ Iwata’s specialties let you taste the bounty of the land: ebi-imo, iwata tea, aroma melons, white leek, and dried persimmon rounds (koro-gaki). Locally grown ingredients are known for their freshness and flavor. Seafood such as shirasu, wild tora-fugu, and grilled white-cut eel are also popular; shirasu in particular are prized for their firm texture from swimming in the area’s swift coastal currents. These specialties are popular as souvenirs and as return gifts for hometown tax donations. ◆Festivals and events in Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture◆ [Fu Hachiman-gu Shrine Festival] Held each year in the Nakaizumi area on the first Saturday and Sunday of October. Each neighborhood parades elaborately decorated floats. The festival is full of atmosphere, with drums, flutes, and spirited calls filling the air. [Mitsuke Tenjin Hadaka Festival] The grand festival of Mitsuke Tenjin Yanahiru Shrine is designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. It takes place on the Saturday and Sunday just before the 10th day of the eighth month of the old lunar calendar. The festival’s highlight is the nighttime procession of naked participants and mikoshi (portable shrines), which runs from around 9:00 p.m. into the early hours of the next morning, reaching a peak around 1:00 a.m. Naked men, grouped into four units called teidan, parade through the old Tokaido route within the Mitsuke area and proceed to the shrine’s worship hall. Inside the worship hall, the excitement builds each time a new group joins, and intense chants and vigorous dances (oni-odori) continue. In the deep of night, all lights in the area are extinguished, plunging the scene into pitch-black darkness as the mikoshi run in a breathtaking climax. ◆Sharing information about Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture◆ In Iwata you can feel history and culture nurtured over long time. In 2022, Iwata’s Teratani water was registered as a World Irrigation Structure Heritage, adding another chapter to the city’s proud historical story. In 2023 Iwata reclaimed the top spot nationwide in a ranking of municipalities most associated with the phrase “sports town,” helping to solidify its brand as a city of sport. Yet even now this post cannot fully capture all the charms and strengths alive in Iwata’s history, culture, sea and mountain nature, industries, and people’s lifestyles. We will continue sharing recommended information via Cool Japan videos, so please stay tuned!

Nice to meet you all and welcome to COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! This is the Hayakawa Tourism Association. Minamikoma-gun Hayakawa Town, Yamanashi Prefecture, is a town located in the southwest of Yamanashi Prefecture, and is the only "town" in Japan with a population of less than 1,000, with 947 people as of April 1, 2024, making it the least populated town in Japan. It is also a Rich in nature town surrounded by Akaishi Mountains mountains, and it is a Rich in nature area surrounded by large and small waterfalls and Valleys. Hot springs are also abundant, and Nishiyama Hot spring, which has a history of 1,300 years of hot springs, is home to the world's oldest inn certified by the Guinness Book of Records. ■■■History of Hayakawa Town, Yamanashi Prefecture In 1956, Hayakawa Town was formed by the merger of six villages: Motodate Village, Goka Village, Suzurishima Village, Miyakogawa Village, Misato Village, and Nishiyama Village. In 1960, the population increased to more than 10,000 due to the influx of people involved in hydroelectric power generation construction, but the population has since declined and is now "the least populated town in Japan". ■■■Introduction to sightseeing spots in Hayakawa Town ・Akazawa Inn It flourished as a lodging place for Rest stop for pilgrims to Mt. Shichimen, and still retains the faces of the Edo period. In 1993, it was recognized as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. ・Shuku-no-eki Shimizuya It is a tourist information center and rest area that has been renovated from an old accommodations in Akazawa Inn. Specialty products and crafts of the region are sold. ・Bentendo waterfall It is a waterfall at the back of the Hagoromo Trailhead to Mt. Shichimen and is known as a place for ascetics. In winter, you can see the icefall where the waterfall freezes. ・Hayakawa Local History Museum It is a document building that retains the exterior of the Village Hall of Misato Village. Hayakawa Town's traditional culture, crafts, and history are on display. ・Yushima's Great Cedar Tree Legend has it that it was planted 1,200 years ago, and it is the largest cedar tree in Yamanashi Prefecture at Sanno Shrine. In 1958, it was designated as a natural monument designated by Yamanashi Prefecture. ・Hayakawa Valley In the Valleys that stretches from the Arakura area to the Narada District, you can see the beautiful scenery of the four seasons, such as New green in Spring, autumn leaves in autumn, and Icicles in winter. ■■■Specialty products of Hayakawa Town Hayakawa Town's proud Specialty Products, Hakuho miso, Fresh sweet potato konnyaku, and Dried potato stalks, are exquisite gourmets that can only be tasted here. In addition, "Oboko dolls" that have been handed down in this area since ancient tradition are recommended for tourism in Hayakawa Town and are also designated as prefectural designated folk crafts. ■■■Popular events and festivals in Hayakawa Town ・Akaishi Mountains Hayakawa Edible Wild Greens Festival Every year in May, the event is held at the Hayakawa Town People's Sports Square, and the main stage features Drum performances and song shows. Bake sale shops and food stalls are lined up at the venue, and Mikoshi portable shrine passing is also held. ・Okuyamanashi Hayakawa Autumn Leaves and Food Festival It is held every year in October at the Hayakawa Town People's Sports Square surrounded by autumn leaves, and Hayakawa Town's Specialty Products and seasonal foods are gathered. ■■■Sightseeing in Hayakawa Town "Japan's least populated town" is packed with rich nature, deep history, Specialty products, events and charm. There are different ways to enjoy your trip in Hayakawa Town, such as "heal your fatigue in the Hot spring", "Experience the Nature of Hayakawa Town at the campsite", and "Enjoy the local gourmet food of Hayakawa Town". Best regards so that your trip to Hayakawa Town in Yamanashi Prefecture will be an unforgettable memory for everyone, and we will send out recommended information about Hayakawa Town!

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.

Hello to all COOL JAPAN VIDEOS viewers! This is the Nishiizu Tourism Association. Nishi-Izu Town, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture is a town of about 6,300 people located on the west coast of the Izu Peninsula. We will send out recommended information of Nishi-Izu Town! Best regards!! ■Features of Nishi-Izu Town■ Tourist spots created by Nature such as the national natural monument "Tensodo" along the Nishi-Izu Coast, and the "Tombolo of Dogashima" and "Koganezaki" leading to Dogashima Landmark and Sanshiro Island are popular. There are many valuable spots that make up the Izu Peninsula Global Geopark, such as the "One color pillow lava" where you can see the oldest geological formation on the Izu Peninsula about 20 million years ago. In addition, tourist facilities such as trick art and glass museums, and accommodations such as hotels and inns where you can enjoy the scenery of Izu, the Sunset and the beautiful Sea Field are lined up along the Coast, and in Nishi-Izu Town, you can enjoy plenty of Nature and modern culture. ■ Japan's largest sunset town "Nishi-Izu Town" ■ From Izu Nishi Coast, you can Appreciation beautiful Sunset throughout the year, and Otago Coast and Dogashima Coast have been selected as one of the "100 Best Sunset in Japan". In order to enjoy the best Sunset in Japan, those who stay inn in a Accommodations in the town will be guided by a "Sunset volunteer local photography enthusiast" who will guide you to the Sunset points of the day. ■Recommended gourmet and specialty products of Nishi-Izu Town■ Seafood such as ground fish, Japanese flying squid, Ise shrimp, Haliotis, Turbo sazae, and Amakusa landed in Suruga Bay, as well as "Hon Wasabi" grown in the Fine spring water and Clear streams of Mt. Amagi are popular specialty products, and can be tasted at Accommodations and restaurants in Nishi-Izu Town. Salted bonito, a preserved food made by pickling bonito with salt, which is also served at events such as the local gourmet festival "B-1 Grand Prix", is a traditional preserved food handed down in the Tago District and is used as Ochazuke and Udon Noodles with Shio Katsuo. It is also recommended as a souvenir of Nishi-Izu Town. ■Popular sightseeing spots in Nishi-Izu Town■ Since this will be a First Post of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, we will briefly introduce some of the most popular tourist destinations in Nishi-Izu Town. ◇Dogashima Tensodo It is a cave designated as a national natural monument with a hole in the ceiling with a diameter of more than 10 meters. You can explore the inside of the cave by sightseeing boat. You can also go to the upper side of the cave from the promenade. ◇Koganezaki The entire cape is a park, and the promenade, Lawn square, Observatory, and the Mt. Fuji view spot "Fujimi Hill" are Maintenance. You can also watch the beautiful Sunset. ◇Sanshiro Island It consists of four islands consisting of Denbei Island, Nakanoshima, Okinose Island, and Takashima Island located 200 meters off the coast of the Coast, and at low tide a road appears and can be visited on foot. ◇ Mt. Shiraiwa Mural The Honzon Konrin Butsudenson is depicted on the Quay wall of a rock-cut cave on a small hill in the village of Nishina Sawada, Nishi-Izu Town. It is said to have been made in the Kamakura period, but the author is unknown. ◇Hanbata Market In addition to fresh seafood from Nishi-Izu, Specialty products such as Dried fish, Hon Wasabi, and Shio Bonito are lined up. It is also recommended for purchasing Souvenirs of Nishi-Izu sightseeing. ■Introducing Information about Nishi-Izu Town■ In Japan's best sunset town, you can watch the beautiful Sunset that dyes the Sea Field of Nishi-Izu in a beautiful madder red color. There are many recommended sunset appreciation spots on the Coast of Nishi-Izu Town, and you can see a different sunset at each spot. In the COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, we will introduce recommended sightseeing spots in Nishi-Izu Town, so please follow us.

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!

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!

This is the Toyooka Village Tourism Association. Hello to everyone watching the Cool Japan Video! Toyooka Village, in Shimoina-gun, Nagano Prefecture, is located in the southern part of Nagano Prefecture, in a region known as Minami Shinshu (Southern Shinshu). The village has a population of approximately 6,500. Compared to much of Nagano Prefecture, Toyooka Village enjoys a relatively mild climate with little snowfall, making it a thriving agricultural community for fruits and vegetables. On Cool Japan Video, we will be sharing recommended information about Minami Shinshu Toyooka Village, so please enjoy our content. In this first post, we will briefly introduce some special experience plans and sightseeing spots you can enjoy within Toyooka Village. ■□ Cycling Guided Tours to Fully Enjoy Toyooka Village’s Nature □■ The Toyooka Village Tourism Association offers the following cycling guided tours to allow visitors to experience the village’s natural blessings. Our cycling tours use E-BIKEs (electric-assist bicycles), making it easy to navigate even uphill slopes♪ Even if you are not used to cycling, our Japan Cycling Guide Association–certified guides will provide support, so you can feel at ease. ◇ Fruit Sweets Plan ◇ This beginner-friendly course takes about two to two and a half hours to complete♪ Harvest seasonal fruit and then enjoy a dessert prepared on the spot by the chef at the local restaurant Cafe & Dining en—an experience you can enjoy year-round. Taste sweets made from freshly picked Toyooka Village fruit♪ ◇ Forest Road Activity Plan ◇ Available for a limited time from late May through the end of August♪ This roughly three- to four-hour course offers thrills and excitement as you ride over bumpy paths you wouldn’t normally take. After working up a sweat in the midsummer heat, the natural water slide will create an unforgettable memory! After enjoying playing in the river, relax with a takeaway lunch from Toyooka Village. ◇ Exquisite Course Lunch Plan ◇ Available for a limited time from late April through early December♪ This roughly four- to four-and-a-half-hour plan lets you experience harvesting Toyooka Village’s seasonal vegetables. After harvesting with a local farmer, savor a superb multi-course lunch prepared by a dedicated chef using freshly picked vegetables while enjoying the spectacular view of the Ina Valley below. ◇ Night Tour Overnight Plan ◇ Available for a limited time from late April through mid-October♪ This evening-start plan lets you enjoy sunset cycling and vegetable harvesting in Toyooka Village, followed by a luxurious BBQ dinner prepared by a dedicated chef with a panoramic view of the Ina Valley below. Afterward, you can soak in a ceramic bath and spend the night at Toyo Terrace for a relaxing, indulgent stay. ■□ Must-See Sightseeing Spots in Toyooka Village □■ ◇ Roadside Station "Minami Shinshu Toyooka Marche" ◇ A must-see spot showcasing fresh local produce and specialty items. Serving as the regional food market of southern Shinshu, it offers a wide selection of locally grown vegetables and fruits—perfect souvenirs for your Toyooka Village visit. ◇ Fukushima Teppen Park ◇ From the park’s observation deck, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Maeda rice terraces in Fukushima Honmura and the Ina Valley. During winter, seasonal illuminations are also displayed. ◇ Mibusawa Fudo Falls ◇ This waterfall has a 15-meter drop. It is about a five-minute walk from the prefectural road, so you can visit easily. (You can also reach it by rental bicycle.) ◇ Weeping Cherry Blossoms at Sasamidaira ◇ This weeping cherry tree reaches about 15 meters in height and is estimated to be over 400 years old. It is designated as a Toyooka Village natural monument. ■□ Popular Events Loved in Toyooka Village □■ ◇ Toyooka Festival ◇ Held each year in November at the Toyooka Village Hall venue, the Toyooka Festival attracts roughly 12,000 attendees in total and is one of the village’s most popular events. Many food stalls line the venue, and stage events and musical fireworks take place. ■□ Specialty Products of Toyooka Village □■ Toyooka Village produces delicious fresh fruits nurtured by its rich nature, including peaches, apples, Shine Muscat grapes, Ichida persimmons, and pears. The village is also known for matsutake mushrooms, often called the king of mushrooms. These specialty products are carefully cultivated by local people, and their flavors have impressed many visitors. In Toyooka Village, you can also enjoy seasonal fruit-picking experiences such as the apple tree owner system and peach picking. These activities are especially recommended for families, giving children a valuable chance to enjoy nature while learning the importance of food. Also, at the Vegetable Garden Buffet Restaurant Vegful Kitchen, you can enjoy superb dishes made with fresh vegetables from Toyooka Village in a buffet style. When visiting Toyooka Village, be sure to fully indulge in the local cuisine! ■□ Enjoy Toyooka Village Tourism □■ Toyooka Village also runs the Toyooka Village Working Holiday program, which offers countryside living experiences and agricultural experiences for those considering relocating to the countryside or starting farming. Surrounded by Toyooka Village’s great natural beauty, why not escape the daily hustle and find true relaxation? Cool Japan Video will continue to share recommended and up-to-date information about Toyooka Village, Nagano Prefecture, so please follow us!

Bibai Yakitori Bibai City, which once flourished as a coal mine, has a number of soul foods that locals love. One of them is "Bibai Yakitori", which has been loved as a source of stamina for coal miners. The best feature is the "motsu skewers" that contain several types of motsu, chicken skin, and thighs on one skewer. This unique style was born at a store called "Mifune" around Showa 30 and has been inherited by several stores in the city. The biggest feature of Bibai's yakitori is that it is all sticking liver, hearts, gizzards, kumquats, etc., chicken skin, and thighs on a skewer, and if you cut a chicken, you can eat it all deliciously without waste. A variety of textures and flavors spread in the mouth, and it has a very deep taste. The order of skewering is the skin at the bottom, the next is the onion like Hokkaido, the next is the motsu, the onion is again, and the last is the thigh meat. Onions are a specialty of Bibai, and when baked, the sweetness increases and goes well with chicken. There are skewers on the menu that are only meat, but customers overwhelmingly order "motsu skewers". When ordering yakitori, Bibai usually orders large quantities in units of 10 bottles. It is normal for each person to eat 10 or 20 bottles. Seasoning is simple with salt and pepper. Let's become a Bibai citizen and enjoy the deliciousness of the whole chicken.