Urabandai in Fukushima is one of my most favorite autumn destination.

November 17th
A breathtaking view from the summit of Mount Nagamine this morning
A morgenrot draping the Northern Alps
A sea of clouds covering the Azumino Plain
For this view, visit Azumino at dawn
The tourism association organizes the "Stay in Azumino: Mount Nagamine Spectacular View Tour"
For details, visit the official website

November 15th
Good morning
A Morgenrot morning in Azumino
The rising sun hit the Northern Alps, turning them red
This weekend looks set to bring clear, pleasant weather in Azumino

A silhouette of a whooper swan bathed in the setting sun.

Some birds use it as a stopover before flying further south in Japan, but many spend the winter in Hokkaido.

At sunrise and sunset, the river glows gold as they land on the water or take flight, creating a truly beautiful sight.

This year’s Halloween Garden at Tokachi Hills in Makubetsu, Hokkaido.
The scenes from the garden.

The "From the Information Desk" section on the Kawayu Onsen website has been updated📝🆙

We report on the Kawayu Marche held on Saturday, October 18, and the light-up of MtAtosanupuri. Please take a look♨️✨
https://www.kawayu-onsen.com/feature/814/

Rokkanon-Miike Pond is a cobalt-blue volcanic lake in Kirishima, said to be the most beautiful there.
The trees reflected on the water looked like they were on fire, creating an indescribable beauty.
In the third year of Tentoku, a monk named Seisho (Shoku) visited to train. While reciting the Lotus Sutra by the shore, a white-haired old man appeared and said, "I am Yamato Takeru, and I live on this mountain as a swan." Seisho carved six Kannon statues and built a shrine by the pond to enshrine them.
When he turned around, there stood the white-haired old man…!!!

Photographed in Ebino City, Miyazaki Prefecture.

The autumn in Urabandai, Fukushima is amazing. I took this photo during a figgy day near lake Hibara. The small island inside the lake also full of autum colors which makes the frame more beautiful. Mist, autumn colors and lake, these are all what i can even imagined. It was so exciting and eye-shoothing. After thus trip I was really refreshed and energized again.

Daimon Kinoshita Exhibition in Teshikaga
The Daimon Kinoshita Exhibition is now on display in the lobby of Teshikaga Town Public Hall.

A miniature version of Setta no Surioto, which is exhibited at the Guimet Museum (Musée national des arts asiatiques-Guimet) in France, is being shown and unveiled in Teshikaga for the first time. (The original measures 3 m by 12 m.)

Exhibition hours: 9:00–21:00
Period: Now through November 25, 2025

Please take this opportunity to come and see it.

I visited Arashiyama Yusai-tei in Saga Kamenoocho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture.
The autumn leaves and their reflection seen through the round window
looked like a painting and made the place truly beautiful.
💕(∗❛ัᴗ❛ั∗)◞📷🍁

Autumn Scenery in Nagawacho

Mountains in the Wada area, Nagawa Town, and scenes from Nagakubo-juku.
These are the autumn leaves you should see and feel in person at the spot.

The Wada area has two campsites. Camping here in autumn feels especially wonderful 🍂⛺!!
Miyashita Hills Auto Campsite
http://www.miyashitahills.jp/
TEL 0268-88-2915
Akakura no Mori Auto Camping Ground
https://akakuranomori.sakura.ne.jp/
TEL 0268-88-3126

Nakasendo Wada-shuku and Nagakubo-juku are particularly charming at this time of year. Please come and visit 😊❤️

Amidst the gentle rain, the silhouette of a majestic mountain looms over the serene Lake Hibara, creating a breathtaking backdrop. As I sit by the lake’s edge, the tranquil atmosphere envelops me, turning this moment into something truly unforgettable. The tiny islands in the distance adds a touch of magic, making the scene feel like a painting come to life.

[Notice of Winter Road Closures for Reiwa 7]

[Winter Road Closure Notice 2025.10.31]
The following roads in the Mashu area will be closed for winter starting today, October 31, 2025.

・Prefectural Route 52 Kussharo Mashu Kohan Line (Third Observation Deck) from 15:00
・Prefectural Route 150 Lake Mashu Nakashibetsu Line (Uramashu Observatory) from 9:00
Access to Lake Mashu is possible from the Teshikaga town area up to Lake Mashu Kamuy Terrace (Lake Mashu Kamuy Terrace (Lake Mashu Observatory No. 1)) via Prefectural Route 52.

・Prefectural Route 588 Kussharo Tsubetsu Line (Tsubetsu Pass) from 10:00
The winter detour for Tsubetsu Pass is National Route 243 (Bihoro Pass).

・Prefectural Route 587 Atosatokoshimizu Line (9.8 km from near the summit of Mokoto Pass toward Koshimizu town area) from 10:00

Announcements about lifting winter closures will be posted on Teshikaga Navi.
We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
https://www.masyuko.or.jp/news/r7stoproad/

Northern Alps, MtJonen and the Great Ginkgo
The bright yellow ginkgo leaves stood out against Azumino’s clear blue sky!!
You can see it as you drive up to the Central Entrance Parking of National Alps Azumino Park, Horigane-Hotaka Area.

November 9th
The Bell Ringing Hill Assembly Hall in Azumino is a historic building that served as the setting for the NHK radio drama "The Bell Ringing Hill."
The autumn leaves were just at their peak!

I visited the famed Toohoku peak MtAdatara (1,700 m).
From the Okudake Trailhead I took the ropeway to the Summit Station, passed MtYakushi (1,322 m), and reached the summit of MtAdatara. I was moved by the stark volcanic landscape of the explosion crater (Numanodaira Crater), then continued to Mount Yahazu (1,673 m) and enjoyed autumn colors painting the slopes of MtTetsu (1,709 m).

Location: Nihommatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture

Scuba Diving in Atami, Japan — A Day Full of Color and Connection 🪸

A few days ago, we went diving in Atami, Shizuoka, one of Japan’s most popular wreck diving sites just a short trip from Tokyo. The moment we descended, we were surrounded by thousands of colorful fish, swirling around the shipwreck like a living rainbow. The vibrant soft corals covering the wreck made the underwater scenery absolutely breathtaking. 🌈

It was an especially memorable day because one of our guests completed their PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course! 🎉
Congratulations on reaching this new milestone in your scuba journey. Every certification represents more confidence, more discovery, and deeper connection with the sea.

We were also delighted to dive with a wonderful guest visiting from France 🇫🇷, who made the most of his stay in Japan through diving. Sharing the ocean with divers from around the world reminds us that the sea connects people beyond borders. 💙

Thank you to all our amazing guests for bringing your energy and smiles. Whether you’re trying fun diving near Tokyo, taking a PADI license course, or exploring Japan’s hidden underwater gems, we’re here to make every dive unforgettable.

At Hokule’a Shonan, we offer small-group diving trips, from Atami and Izu to Okinawa — all led by certified PADI instructors. 🌺
Contact us anytime to plan your next diving adventure in Japan! 🌊

----------------------------
🌈 About Hokule’a Shonan

Hokule’a Shonan is a PADI 5⭐️ diving center located in Hiratsuka, Kanagawa, just a short train ride from Tokyo.

Our motto is “Let’s embark on a journey to the unseen world.”
Through diving, we help people discover the beauty and joy of nature while exploring Japan’s rich underwater world.

We offer more than 300 days of diving courses and tours every year, including Izu, Okinawa, and even overseas destinations.

With small-group diving and personalized instruction, beginners can dive safely and comfortably.

We also welcome custom requests — whether you want to try your first dive, take a PADI course, or join a local ocean adventure!

Come and dive with us — let’s enjoy this beautiful blue world together! 🌊💙


#HokuleaShonan #DiveJapan #Atami #WreckDive #AOWDiver #PADI #ScubaDivingJapan #ExploreTheBlue #UnderwaterWorld #JapanDiving #AtamiDive

Autumn leaves in Gokasecho🍁

The autumn colors in Gokasecho have suddenly deepened over the past few days🍁

The foliage in front of Shirataki Falls in Kuraoka District is not fully colored yet, but overall the area is at peak color✨

I also visited Myoken Shrine and other spots in Kuraoka District; the maples there still need a bit more time to peak💡

Some areas will continue to change color, but how about a drive to see Gokase’s autumn leaves this weekend?😊

⚠Notice⚠
The road to Shirataki is a forest road with poor conditions. There is little space for cars to pass. We do not recommend driving if you lack confidence, are in a large vehicle, or are driving a low-clearance car.

Teshikaga Night Sky Enjoyment Workshop
Thanks to your support, we have reached the 12th Teshikaga Night Sky Enjoyment Workshop. This year’s theme is the much-anticipated Geminids meteor shower. The program includes a classroom lecture and an observation session.

Why is Teshikaga’s night sky so stunning?
How should we protect and make the most of this night sky? What exactly is a meteor shower? What are tips for enjoying it? Which astronomical events should you watch for next year? This workshop is packed with answers and insights.

If the sky is clear, we will go outside and observe the meteor shower.
We hope you get to see bright meteors that can compete with the waning moonlight.

To register, contact Teshikaga Town Community Center.
015-482-2340

We look forward to your participation🌌✨

Atami – Where Adventure Meets Serenity

Just 90 minutes from Tokyo, Atami in Shizuoka offers one of the most fascinating diving experiences in Japan — where adventure and serenity come together beneath the surface. Known for its wreck diving and mysterious blue cave, Atami attracts divers who seek both excitement and peace in one destination.

The highlight of Atami is the wreck of Asahi No.16, one of the largest wrecks in Japan. Resting quietly on the seafloor, this massive structure is now covered in colorful soft corals and swarming with marine life. As you descend, the silhouette of the wreck slowly appears out of the blue — a breathtaking sight that makes you feel like you’re stepping into an underwater museum. Exploring this wreck is an unforgettable experience for divers who love large-scale structures full of history and mystery.

Then, shift from adventure to calm in Atami’s Blue Cave. As you enter, sunlight pierces through the narrow opening, filling the space with an ethereal blue glow. The soft light, bubbles rising toward the surface, and the quiet stillness of the cave create a dreamlike world beneath the waves. It’s a moment of pure serenity — a dive that connects you deeply with the ocean.

Whether you’re looking for thrilling wreck diving or a peaceful cave dive, Atami offers both just a short train ride from Tokyo. With easy access, clear water, and diverse dive sites, it’s a perfect destination for weekend divers and international visitors alike.

If you’re searching for wreck diving in Japan, or want to discover the best diving spots near Tokyo, Atami is a must-visit. Dive into its hidden blue world — where every moment beneath the sea feels like a journey between adventure and serenity. 🌊💙

📍 Atami, Shizuoka, Japan


About Hokule’a Shonan 🌈

Hokule’a Shonan is a PADI 5⭐️ Dive Center located in Hiratsuka, Kanagawa — just a short trip from Tokyo.
Our motto is “Let’s embark on a journey to the unseen world.” Through diving, we help you discover the beauty of nature and the joy of exploring the ocean.

We offer more than 300 diving tours and courses a year across Japan, from Izu to Okinawa and even overseas.
With our small-group style, beginners can dive safely and comfortably while enjoying a personalized experience.

Whether you’re taking your first breath underwater or joining an advanced adventure — we’re here to make every dive unforgettable.
Let’s dive and enjoy the ocean together! 💙

#HokuleaShonan #DiveJapan #ExploreTheBlue #ScubaDivingJapan #UnderwaterWorld #DivingNearTokyo

Panoramic view from the summit of Mount Nagamine
The chilly Azumino valley lies under a sea of clouds, with the Northern Alps towering beyond
You can only see a scene like this on an Azumino morning!

I visited the famous Toohoku peak MtAdatara (1,700 m).
I took the ropeway from Okudake Trailhead to Summit Station, passed MtYakushi (1,322 m), and reached the summit of MtAdatara. Then I was moved by the stark volcanic landscape of the explosion crater (Numanodaira Crater), continued to Mount Yahazu (1,673 m), and enjoyed the autumn colors painting the slopes of MtTetsu (1,709 m).

Location: Nihommatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture

I visited Mt. Kurikoma (elevation 1,626 m), the celebrated Tohoku peak praised as the "carpet of the gods."
At the temporary shuttle bus stop, Kurihara City staff warned that "bears have been appearing on the trail for four consecutive days!" and, ringing bear bells loudly, we made the ascent.
By the grace of the gods, we encountered no bears and were treated to truly stunning autumn foliage. Thank you.

Location: Kurihara City, Miyagi Prefecture

Azumino was pleasantly warm, but a sudden passing shower arrived…
When I looked up at the sky, there was a double rainbow

Divine glow ✨

On the way back from photographing Shirataki Falls, the pampas grass lit by sunlight looked divine, so I took a picture 📷

You can see gleaming pampas grass around town right now 👀

The temperature swings between morning and evening have deepened the autumn colors 🍁

Peak foliage may still be a little way off, but you can already feel the autumn scenery and breeze beyond the leaves 🌰

Shimoda Photography Club 10th Anniversary Photo Exhibition Now Open✨!

The Shimoda Photography Club has been capturing Shimoda’s landscapes and everyday life.
To celebrate its 10th anniversary, a special exhibition of about 2,000 photographs is on display📸✨

The exhibition spans three areas:
🚉 Inside the station (Izukyū Shimoda Station ticket gate)
🏬 Downtown street (Renjaku-cho Street to Ise-machi Street)
🖼️ Downtown gallery (Oyokocho Fujita Building)
November 1st (Saturday) – November 9th (Sunday)
on view🏞️🎨

Take a stroll through town and rediscover Shimoda’s charm through these photos🌿
👉 More details here
https://www.shimoda-city.info/post/20251101

November is almost here 🍂✨
This time, we introduce six autumn foliage spots in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture! 🍁
Be sure to dress warmly and come to Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture 💛🎶

🍁🍁🍁Here are the highlights of the six autumn leaves spots🔽🍁🍁🍁

1. The Nursing-Rooting Giant Ginkgo of Mt. Kamitakano 🍁
[Address] Takano-cho, Shinichi, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
[Highlights] This giant ginkgo stands in the precincts of Tenman Shrine, with a trunk circumference at chest height of 9.6 meters, ranking first in the prefecture. It is said to have been planted as a sacred tree when Takemikazuchi-no-kami was enshrined here in the first year of Tenpyo (729). Aerial roots called "breasts" hang down from the main trunk, and it is designated as a prefectural natural monument. ※Please note that conditions may vary depending on the weather.
[Access] About an 8-minute drive from Takano IC on the Onomichi–Matsue Expressway or from Roadside Station Takano
[Typical viewing period] Early to mid-November

2. Mt. Azuma 🍁
[Address] Moriwaki, Hiwa-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
[Highlights] Mt. Azuma belongs to Hiba-Dogo-Taishaku Quasi-National Park and lies about 35 km north of Shobara City in northern Hiroshima Prefecture. The Azuma Lodge of Kyukamura closed in 2020. Restroom facilities are available at the former campsite public toilets. ※Please note that conditions may vary depending on the weather.
[Typical viewing period] Late October to early November

3. Hiba Mountain Range 🍁
[Address] Yuki, Saijo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture to Shimane Prefecture
[Highlights] A series of mountains around 1,200 meters high, with the area near Hiba-san Goryo covered by a nationally designated natural monument of pure beech forest. Please note that conditions may vary depending on the weather.
[Access] To Hiroshima Prefectural Citizens’ Forest Park Center
About 40 minutes from Shobara IC
About 40 minutes from Tojo IC
[Typical viewing period] Late October to early November

4. Dogo Mountain Range 🍁
[Address] Misaka, Saijo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture to Tottori Prefecture
[Highlights] One of Japan’s 300 Famous Mountains and featured in Sumie Tanaka’s New 100 Famous Flowers of the Mountains. Enjoy 360-degree views from the summit, stone embankments from former ranches, and the large pond built as a water source for tatara ironmaking. ※Please note that conditions may vary depending on the weather.
[Access] About a 45-minute drive from Shobara IC to Tsukimigaoka
About a 30-minute drive from Tojo IC to Tsukimigaoka
[Typical viewing period] From early November

5. Taishakyo Gorge 🍁
[Address] Tojo-cho, Shobara City to Jinseki Kogen Town, Jinseki District, Hiroshima Prefecture
[Highlights] A gorge spanning Tojo-cho in Shobara City and Jinseki Kogen Town. Designated a National Scenic Spot in 1923 and listed among Japan’s Top 100 Landscapes. ※Please note that conditions may vary depending on the weather.
[Access] About a 15-minute drive from Tojo IC on the Chugoku Expressway
[Typical viewing period] Late October to early November

6. The Iroha Maple Group of Kamichi 🍁
[Address] Inakusa, Soryo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
[Highlights] The Iroha maple group of Kamichi includes remarkably large trees, the largest having a trunk circumference at chest height of 3.25 m, and nine others exceeding 2 m in circumference—an unusually large cluster even on a national scale. ※Please note that conditions may vary depending on the weather.
[Access] About a 15-minute drive from Shobara IC on the Chugoku Expressway
[Typical viewing period] Early to mid-November

For autumn foliage information for 2025, see🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/special/4758

For an article summarizing the highlights, see🔽
https://www.shobara-info.com/report/5312

Yusaku Night Kagura: Mizukagami 2025
❚ Held on November 15, 2025
“Yusaku Night Kagura: Mizukagami 2025” will take place at Yusaku Park in Asaji Town, Bungoono City.
The bold Kagura dances will be reflected on the surface of the Shinji Pond.
Because the area around the pond can get cold at night, we recommend bringing a jacket.

Date and Time: Saturday, November 15, 2025
※If it rains, the event will be postponed to the following day.
Location: Yusaku Park (Ageotsuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City)
Parking
From 14:00 on the day of the event, parking in and around the venue is not permitted.
A shuttle bus will operate to and from Asaji Community Center, so please use it.
▶ Parking: Asaji Community Center
▶ Service Hours: 15:00–21:00
▶ Contribution: 300 yen

Performers
Itaisako Shinmeisha Kagura Troupe
Miyama-style Asaji Kagura Preservation Society
Ogata Sansha Kagura Preservation Society
Organizer
Asaji Town Youth Division Mizukagami Executive Committee

Event Inquiries
Bungoono City Hall, Asaji Branch TEL 0974-72-1111

■■■ Access to central Bungoono City ■■■
About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture
About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture
About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture
About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture

■■■■■■■■■■■■
Tourism and recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu
■■■■■■■■■■■■
https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20251029event-asaji/

This photo was taken at Isahaya Shrine in Nagasaki Prefecture.

The stylish transparent amulet was impressive, so I took a picture of the shrine in the background.
The heat of midsummer was over, but the wind Car of the many was swirling with the wind, and there was a cool atmosphere in the air.

Memories of Summer Enbara River 2025.08.16

The cold water of the underground water warms up with the warmth of summer, and river fog is generated, and the sun shines on it, creating a beam of light.