At the Akagi Kogen Service Area on the downbound side of the Kanetsu Expressway, there is a park behind the shops. In spring, there are spots where tulips and other flowers are planted. On clear days, you can see the snow-capped Mt. Komagatake and Mt. Hotaka. While walking in the park, I spotted the snow-covered Mt. Komagatake between the red and white cherry blossoms.

栃木県足利市にある白髭神社です。小さな神社ですが、足利荘山川郷の鎮守として崇敬された神社だそうです。 春には、外側からハナモモが咲き中央には大きな桜の木があります。 この写真はハナモモと桜が満開の時期にちょうど訪れることができました。 ハナモモだけでも見ごたえ十分です。 余り知られていないハナモモの穴場スポットです。

Nogi Hofmann Hall, located in Nogimachi, Tochigi Prefecture, is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan and is a place where visitors can observe a brick kiln. Next to it, a row of dawn redwoods continues. In the evening, it is illuminated, offering a wonderful view. I was moved when the pathway turned red with fallen leaves. I believe it is a hidden gem that is not widely known.

Today is the Summer Purification Ceremony. We cleanse ourselves of sins and impurities from the past six months and pray for good health and safety for the remaining half of the year.

Taken on April 6, 26. This is the flower water at the omikuji (fortune-telling) distribution area of Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine. I'm curious about 🇯🇵🆚🇧🇷.

Kanawa Island in Hinodecho, Oita Prefecture, appears to be an ordinary couple's rock from a distance, but as you get closer, a large hole created by wave erosion reveals itself. This formation, visible only during low tide, truly deserves to be called a "hidden gem of Japan." I took this photo to convey the beauty of the shapes carved by nature.

Taken on April 4, 2014. This is the flower water basin at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

Today's Northern Alps, Mt. Tsubakuro The queen of alpine plants, Komakusa, has started to bloom The Hakusan Ichige is also blooming beautifully😍 Today, we coincidentally encountered a family of rock ptarmigans♪ The best access to Mt. Tsubakuro is from Azumino City❗️

In Azumino, where the weather is unstable due to the approaching typhoon, I saw buckwheat flowers blooming in various places in the Misato District.

About an hour from Tokyo. In the sea, there is an unknown Japan. Manatsuru, which can be visited as a day trip from Tokyo or Yokohama. This small port town has special views known only to divers. This time, we visited "Iwa." It’s about a 40-minute drive from Hiratsuka. A convenient boat diving spot. It takes just a few minutes to reach the sea by boat. Once you enter the water, colorful soft corals spread out before you. Schools of fish swim slowly through the calm sea. The highlight of this place is the large iron frame reef sunk to the seabed. Originally used as scaffolding for bridge construction, it has now become a habitat for marine creatures and a popular spot for divers. Swimming between the massive structures feels like exploring underwater ruins. Soft corals sway above, and light filters through. Lionfish swim slowly, while small fish dart around them. The creatures you encounter change with the seasons. In summer, you see schools of fish. In winter, vibrant sea slugs. Throughout the year, you can enjoy different scenery with each visit. After diving, enjoying a leisurely lunch in Manatsuru or Shonan is also recommended. Just a little stretch from the city, a day like this awaits you. Japan's seas hold many undiscovered charms. On your next trip, why not visit the underwater Japan?

Taken on April 4, 2014. This is the flower water offering at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

The Ōoka River flows through Isezakicho in Yokohama. While Yokohama boasts many famous tourist spots like Chinatown and Minatomirai, the cherry blossoms here are equally breathtaking. With a moderate foot traffic and food stalls lined up, the view from this spot is a spring delight I look forward to every year.

Introduction of Tsuba from Wakedo Item Number: T380703 Title: Haryu zu Tsuba Signature: Seisendo Kashino Naonobu (kao) Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Tokubetsu Hozon Tousougu Dimensions: Length 86.5mm, Width 81.5mm, Thickness 4.8mm Period: Late Edo School: Hamano, Oguri Yoshinao school Description Kashino Naonobu was a disciple of Oguri Yoshinao from the Hamano school. Since Kashiwazaki in Echigo Province was under the domain of Kuwana Han, he became a court goldsmith for the Matsudaira family. Known as Seisendo, he was a skilled craftsman. The raised high-relief dragon in this piece is magnificent, showcasing excellent iron quality.

Taken on April 1, 2014. This is the flower water at the omikuji (fortune-telling paper) distribution area of Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

Introduction of the tsuba from Wakeido Item Number: T380702 Title: Mouko zu Tsuba Signature: Kingyokudo myochin Hirosada (kao) Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Tokubetsu Hozon Tousougu Size: Length 72.7mm Width 65.5mm Thickness 4.5mm Period: Late Edo AD 1830–1860 School: Mito kinko Uchikoshi school Description Mito is one of the Tokugawa Gosanke and a castle town with a production of 350,000 koku. Here, a group known as Mito kinko flourished, forming the Mito carving style and producing numerous master craftsmen such as Motosuke, Ichiryu Tomoyoshi, Mikuru Tamagawa, Uchikoshi Hirosada, and Hagiya Katsuhira. Uchikoshi Hirosada is the foremost disciple of Hirosu and is known as Kingyokudo and Shugen-sai. He is skilled in high relief carvings of figures and plants, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship. This piece features a magnificent high relief of a fierce tiger on a quarter plate, and the carving of the river on the reverse side also demonstrates remarkable skill.

Introduction of Tsuba from Wakedō Item Number: E380701 Title: Ohsyukubai Tsuba Signature: Hohshinsai Toshikage Ganji koushi ki aki (kao) AD1864 Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Hozon Tousougu Dimensions: Length 66mm Width 58.5mm Thickness 2.5mm Period: AD1864 School: Touryusai school Explanation The Touryusai school was founded by Kiyotoshi Tanaka, who was born in the first year of the Bunka era and was known to have connections with Haruaki Hōgen. The school developed a clever style known as the Touryusai style, training many disciples, including Toshikage, Toshimune, and Toshimura. Toshikage, also known as Matsugorō Morikawa, used the names Hohshinsai and Hōmei-sai, creating animal and plant designs in the Touryusai style. His skills were high, and he was a fine craftsman of the Touryusai school. This piece is a tsuba depicting the Ohsyukubai (plum tree) in the Touryusai style, featuring a silver inlay with a carved design on the back, which is very characteristic of the Touryusai style. It showcases the craftsmanship of Toshikage and is a remarkable piece with significant age. Ohsyukubai During the reign of Emperor Murakami, the emperor ordered a magnificent plum tree from the residence of Ki no Tsurayuki's daughter because the plum tree in Seiryōden had withered. The daughter replied with a poem, saying, "If it is the emperor's command, I will gladly offer it, but what should I say if the nightingale that visits every year asks, 'Where is my home?'" The emperor was moved by this elegant response and returned the plum tree to its original garden.

Photographed on April 1, 2014. This is the flower water offering at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

Taken on April 1, 2014. This is the flower water offering at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

Photographed on April 15, 2014. This is the flower water basin at Hara Florist.

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

Photographed on June 16, 2014. I visited Enko next to Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine. I had ginger pork, cold tofu with dipping sauce, miso soup, and kombu tea. After the meal, I felt warm. It's a nourishing meal. 😊

Taken on June 26, 2014. These are the hydrangeas along the approach to Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy a moment of tranquility at Shoishohama Beach, renowned for its exceptional beauty and selected as one of Japan's top 88 bathing spots. We are excited to announce the "NIGHT WAVE - Light Wave Project in Shoishohama." This project is supervised by NIGHT WAVE Co., Ltd., a company with extensive experience in light displays, allowing you to experience a special space enveloped in enchanting blue light. Witness the breathtaking gradient created by the setting sun transforming into the shimmering blue waves. This series of artistic experiences will gently stimulate your senses, inviting you into a space woven with the sounds of the waves, the sea breeze, and light. It truly is a mindful healing time that focuses your awareness on "the here and now." Regain your peace of mind and immerse yourself in the magical scenery of the beautiful sunset at Shoishohama and the blue, illuminated waves. We invite you to experience this miracle. Event Overview NIGHT WAVE - Light Wave Project in Shoishohama (Date) From Saturday, October 17, 2026, to Monday, October 19, 2026 (Time) 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM (sunset expected around 5:19 PM) (Venue) In front of the second parking lot at Shoishohama Beach (approximately 200 meters of shoreline illuminated) (Supervision) NIGHT WAVE Co., Ltd. (Lighting Support) Pi Photonics, Inc. Event Features - Breathtaking shoreline light display : Blue lights dance with the waves, creating a unique and enchanting spectacle. - Torii gate illumination : Experience the lighting of the torii gate standing at Shoishohama and a path of light leading to it. - Gentle lighting decoration at your feet : Lights along the bridge path and viewing areas will support your steps. - Appealing food trucks : Warm beverages and snacks will enrich your autumn nights. - A cozy dining space with lanterns : Enjoy your meal while admiring the enchanting scenery. - Mindfulness sound : Pleasant music that promotes mindfulness through auditory experience will envelop the space. Important Notes and Safety Guidelines To provide everyone with a safe and comfortable experience, please keep the following points in mind. - The sea at night can be very dangerous. Please enjoy the event only within the designated viewing areas. We cannot be held responsible for any accidents that occur within the venue or during the viewing. - There will be no seating available at the venue. If needed, please bring your own chairs or mats. - Some coastal areas may have limited lighting at night. For safety, we strongly recommend bringing a flashlight. - Parking spaces are limited, so we kindly ask everyone to share and use them considerately. - We cannot be held responsible for any accidents or thefts that occur in the parking area. - This event utilizes natural phenomena, so due to weather conditions or wave conditions, the sunset and glowing waves may not be clearly visible. - In the event of sudden bad weather or unavoidable circumstances, the event may be canceled without prior notice. Notifications of cancellations will be posted on the town's website. This autumn, indulge in an unparalleled mindfulness experience woven by light and waves, exclusively at Shoishohama. [Office] Mihama Town Tourism Promotion Division Phone: 0770-32-6705 (8:30 AM - 5:15 PM)

Introducing the Nagano Prefectural Art Museum's "Special Exhibition: Ancient Egypt"✨ 〈If you want to revisit this later, don’t forget to tap the "save" mark!〉 A collection of masterpieces from the Brooklyn Museum's ancient Egyptian collection is gathered in Nagano! In this post, we will introduce highlights of the special exhibition. ①Two human mummies and animal mummies! What is a mummy, and how was it made? We delve into the ancient Egyptians' views on life and death. We will showcase various works related to funerary rituals, including human and animal mummies, beautiful burial goods, tools for funerals, and reliefs depicting deities. ②The mysterious pharaohs We will introduce works related to 12 kings who played significant roles throughout 3000 years of dynastic history, tracing the kings' images and the transitions of the dynasties. ③Daily life of ancient Egyptians Focusing on living conditions, diet, work situations, grooming, childbirth, and child-rearing, we will uncover familiar mysteries that connect to modern life. ④Two types of audio guides The narrator for the "special edition" is Fuma Kikuchi! How about exploring the mysteries of ancient Egypt with Kikuchi? In the "regular edition," Yoshidō Tsujioka, a news anchor from Nippon Television, provides clear explanations. ⑤Collaboration goods with PEANUTS Cute designs featuring Snoopy and friends conducting archaeological research! We have many items for everyday use, such as mugs and tote bags! ⑥Attractive original goods A wide variety of attractive original goods are available! From snacks to stuffed animals, various types of products are on display. You won't run out of souvenirs! Event Overview 【Exhibition Name】"Special Exhibition: Ancient Egypt from the Brooklyn Museum Collection" 【Dates】June 27, 2026 (Saturday) to September 27 (Sunday) 【Venue】Nagano Prefectural Art Museum 【Opening Hours】9:00 AM to 5:00 PM 【Closed】Wednesdays (However, the museum will be open on September 23 (Wednesday) due to a holiday, and closed the following day, September 24 (Thursday)) 【Weekday Visitor Bonus】Original sticker gift *While supplies last #Ancient Egypt #Ancient Egypt Exhibition #Nagano Prefectural Art Museum #Nagano City #Nagano Tourism

This year, the hot summer in Uwajima is coming again! The Uwajima Ushioni Matsuri is celebrating its 60th edition. Paid viewing seats will be available for the fireworks display on July 22nd. Please enjoy the fireworks that color the summer in Uwajima. *Scan the QR code to view the details.

Taken on June 16, 2026. These are the hydrangeas at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

Taken on June 16, 26. This is bitter cream coffee and lemon cube cake. It was a very hot day, and I had a lively conversation with the staff about sunscreen. I enjoy these kinds of casual chats. 😊

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

Hello 😃 and welcome to the Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Senga Falls store! 🍷✨【A day to brighten your heart at Shosenkyo Gorge during the rainy season ☔️🌿】 In this season, the trees soaked by the rain shine even more vividly in Shosenkyo Gorge. At Senga Falls, selected as one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls, the abundant water cascades powerfully, gently healing visitors with its impressive splashes and deep greenery.✨ It's a beautiful scenery that can only be experienced during the rainy season. Just walking around feels like washing away the damp mood. 🍃 And to wrap up your journey… 🍾✨ Enjoy a refreshing sparkling wine made from Yamanashi grapes at the Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Senga Falls store. 🥂 The crisp bubbles and fruity aroma make the aftertaste of your stroll even more special. Choosing a bottle after soaking in the negative ions of the falls will surely become an unforgettable travel memory. "Today is a treat for myself." How about taking home your favorite bottle with that feeling? ✨ We sincerely look forward to your visit! 😊

Taken on June 16, 26. This is a pinwheel in front of the Otorii Gate at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine.