Hello😊, this is the main building of Yamanashi Wine Kingdom🍷. The temperature is rising, and we are experiencing hot days that make us forget about the rainy season☀️.
How is everyone doing?

When we think of Shosenkyo, we naturally think of Senga Falls✨.
The area near the waterfall is refreshingly cool, making it a perfect healing spot for the hot season🌿.
Why not spend some relaxing time enjoying the beautiful scenery, pleasant sounds of water, and negative ions?😊

In the garden of Yamanashi Wine Kingdom, the lavender is in full bloom🪻.
The gentle fragrance and the purple flowers swaying in the wind create a unique seasonal landscape✨.
When you visit Shosenkyo, please make sure to stop by Yamanashi Wine Kingdom as well😊.

Additionally, sparkling wine is highly recommended for the hot season🍾✨.
Its refreshing bubbles and crisp flavor make it the perfect choice for summer, helping you forget the heat.

We have several types of sparkling wine available in-store, so please find your favorite and enjoy a refreshing moment🍷🌿.

All of us are looking forward to your visit😊.

Hello, this is Minamoto🖐️ The temperature is gradually rising, and once the rainy season is over, summer will be in full swing☀️

During this time of year, Shosenkyo Gorge showcases the most beautiful greenery throughout the year🌿
The soft light green of spring transforms into a deep, vibrant green, nourished by ample rain and sunlight, allowing you to enjoy a landscape full of vitality☘️

Additionally, Senga Falls sees an increase in water volume, and the powerful cascade creates a natural mist💦 that rises.
It's the perfect time to feel the negative ions all around you, unique to this season✨
The area around the waterfall basin is refreshingly cool, like a natural air conditioner, making it very pleasant😃

The temperature is lower than in the urban areas, making it an ideal season for hiking, but please prepare drinks🥤 and hats🧢 as a precaution against heatstroke🙇
Moreover, areas around Senga Falls and stairs can be slippery, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes👟 when you go out‼️

Be sure to fully enjoy the "most beautiful gorge in Japan" that can only be seen during this time of year😊

If you have time, please come visit Shosenkyo✨
All of our staff are looking forward to welcoming you❗

Sugao Stone Buddhas
❚ Oita Bungoono Geopark
The Sugao Stone Buddhas are located in Mie Town, Bungoono City.

The "Sugao Stone Buddhas" are five stone statues believed to have been created in the late Heian period.
When viewed up close, their delicate and beautiful presence is breathtaking. The highlight is the remaining red color, which conveys the vividness of the past to the present, evoking a sense of historical romance.

In stark contrast to the usual calm atmosphere, the "Sugao Stone Buddha Fire Festival" heats up the summer nights of Bungoono. After a unique "Rooster Imitation Contest" based on local legends brings smiles to the venue, an impressive "Torch Throwing" event takes place, inviting participants into a fantastical and vibrant world, quite different from the usual serene scenery.

【Location】466 Asase, Mie Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture
【Access】About 40 minutes by car from Oita Mera IC
About 10 minutes by car from JR Sugao Station

■■■Access to Bungoono City Center■■■
About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture
About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture
About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture
About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture

■■■■■■■■■■■■
Introducing tourist attractions and recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu
■■■■■■■■■■■■

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.

The other day, I had lunch with my friend Ms. Hitomi at the teppanyaki restaurant Sazanka on the 35th floor of Hotel Okura Kobe.
While enjoying the wonderful view from the 35th floor,
we had appetizers, Sazanka salad,
and
grilled sea bream and shrimp.
My friend said,
"The flesh of the sea bream easily flakes apart with chopsticks, and it's served with a cream sauce made from clam broth. The shrimp is cooked just right, paired with American sauce. The flavors are thoughtfully combined and very enjoyable."
Next,
there was a stunning flame show (so cool!).
The Japanese Black Wagyu ribeye was cooked medium, tender, and not overly fatty, making it easy to eat. My recommendation is to enjoy it with the accompanying whole grain mustard. (Comment from my friend, Ms. Hitomi)

Then
we had garlic rice
and a special dessert from the pastry chef.
In the best location with the best cuisine, and the warmest hospitality from the staff,
I had a truly luxurious and wonderful time with my friend.

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?

Tokachi Jibo Kannon. This hidden gem features a protective deity and a large Jibo Kannon statue, along with beautiful scenery.

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?

The Manda Pit viewed under the blue sky is very impressive.
The lines of steel, the color of bricks, and the vast sky come together to create a beautiful landscape unique to industrial heritage.
When taking photos, try to include not only the buildings but also the sky and shadows. This will capture the strength of the mining site and the vastness of the sky in Arao City.

【Visiting Information】9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (or the following weekday if it’s a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: Adults and university students 410 yen, high school students 310 yen, elementary and junior high school students 210 yen / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Photo Spot #Travel Photography #Industrial Heritage #Miike Coal Mine #Historical Walks #Architectural Photography #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #Kumamoto #KumamotoTravel #JapanTravel #VisitJapan #WorldHeritage #IndustrialHeritage

The view from Kanmuriyama Summit in Akiyoshidai is breathtaking. It takes about 30 minutes from the parking lot, and the sunrise trekking allows you to enjoy the vast world all to yourself.

Beyond the window lies Lake Kussharo, Japan's largest caldera lake.
All of our hotel rooms face Lake Kussharo.
You can leisurely enjoy the lake's surface bathed in the morning glow, as well as the tranquil scenery at dusk, from your room.

It's not just about staying; it's about spending special moments with Lake Kussharo.

📍Kussharo Prince Hotel
https://www.instagram.com/kussharo_ph/

Early summer is here! It's perfect for a drive! 🚙💨

📍At the foot of Mt. Io, a tunnel of fresh greenery 🌱

This tunnel of fresh greenery is one of the popular sights in the Kawayu Onsen area, located at the foot of Mt. Io. Let me give you a glimpse of the vibrant scenery you can enjoy from your car window.

Escape from the daily hustle and bustle and come to Teshikaga to experience a refreshing and pleasant summer! 🐻☀️🍉

A clear morning in Azumino, where you can see Omachi and Hakuba
The village of Azumino is now filled with melting snow from the Northern Alps 😄

There are still water mirrors in Azumino
Reflecting the scenery and sky of Azumino
It's a view that makes you love the morning😊

🐉✨What if the Dragon God appeared in Shosenkyo Gorge...?✨🐉 This is an AI-generated image inspired by Kakuen Peak, the main peak of Shosenkyo.

Kakuen Peak is a rocky peak approximately 180 meters high, and it is said to have been named after a monk named Kakuen who once practiced Zen meditation at its summit.
Shosenkyo is also said to be a pathway for the flow of good energy known as the "Dragon Vein," which extends from Mount Fuji to the Imperial Palace.
As I recall these stories, I wonder, "If the Dragon God resided on Kakuen Peak, what would it look like...?" This image was born from such imagination.😊

Of course, the Dragon God hasn't actually appeared, but while walking in Shosenkyo, one can often feel a mysterious power and stories within the majestic rocky peaks and canyon scenery.
When you visit Shosenkyo, take a moment to look up at the sky and the rocky peaks, and imagine your own version of a dragon!

*The image is an AI-generated illustration.*

#Shosenkyo #Yamanashi Tourism #Power Spot #AI Art #Generative AI

In June, Kagawa Prefecture not only boasts the azure scenery of the Seto Inland Sea but also welcomes the blooming season of hydrangeas at Mt. Shiude in Mitoyo City. As you slowly ascend the winding mountain road, you can see blue, purple, and pink hydrangeas adorning both sides of the path, as if draping a soft colorful garment over early summer.

Upon reaching the observation deck at the summit, the breathtaking view unfolds before you. The islands of the Seto Inland Sea scatter across the horizon, appearing especially clear against the bright sky, while the blooming hydrangeas reflect the colors of the sea and sky, creating a unique and stunning landscape of Mt. Shiude. A gentle breeze passes through, causing the flowers to sway lightly, and the air is filled with the fresh scent unique to the rainy season, prompting you to slow down and savor the tranquility of nature.

Strolling along the pathways, you can frequently discover various species of hydrangeas competing for attention, attracting many photography enthusiasts to stop and capture the scene. Compared to the crowds during cherry blossom season, early summer at Mt. Shiude feels more leisurely and relaxed, allowing visitors to enjoy both the floral and coastal vistas at their own pace.

If you have the chance to visit Kagawa in June, consider planning a trip to Mt. Shiude. Surrounded by the vibrant hydrangeas and breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea, experience the most charming essence of early summer in Japan.

Introducing the rooms at Kushiro Prince Hotel, tailored to suit your travel style✨

"Four-person Room" recommended for family and group trips
"Double Room" perfect for stays with loved ones
"Twin Room" for a relaxing experience
"Suite Room" to create special moments
and "Single Room" ideal for business or solo travel

Enjoy views of the charming streets and port of Kushiro from any room.

Whether for sightseeing or business trips,
choose your preferred room based on your travel purpose.

Which room would you like to stay in?

Reservations can be made through the profile URL.
▶Kushiro Prince Hotel
https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/

A special view that only early risers can encounter.

You can enjoy the magical "sea of clouds" created by the great nature of Lake Kussharo on a guided tour✨
The sky and clouds change their expressions moment by moment.
The magnificent scenery unfolding before your eyes offers emotions that cannot be captured in photos or videos.

Even first-timers can join with peace of mind on a guided tour.
Why not spend a special morning while learning about the nature and attractions of Kussharo?

Please enjoy this memorable experience on your journey.

You can make a reservation from the profile URL.

📍Kussharo Prince Hotel
https://www.instagram.com/kussharo_ph/

Enjoy the morning sea of clouds,
the majestic view of Lake Kussharo,
and the natural wonders known only by local guides.

It's not just about seeing the scenery; it's also about feeling the air and the passage of time in the land.

"Where shall we go?"
"What shall we experience?"

Feel free to consult us about your travel plans.
Unique experiences at Lake Kussharo will surely make your trip unforgettable.


You can make a reservation through the profile URL.
📍Kussharo Prince Hotel
https://www.instagram.com/kussharo_ph/

💐Nishibetsu-dake now

We're seeing more days perfect for hiking.
At Nishibetsu-dake, you can fully enjoy the lush greenery and the vast natural scenery from the summit⛰️🚶‍♂️

When exploring, hiking, or on the trails, please ensure thorough preparation and check the latest information to enjoy safely within your limits🐻✨

Introducing Rental Bicycles 🚲🚲

If you want to experience the vast nature of Tokachi, cycling is highly recommended! 😊

At the Tokachigawa Onsen Tourist Guide Center, we provide a recommended course map for beginners called "Burachari"! 🎶
Why not take the "Burachari MAP" and go find your favorite scenery?

We offer four types of bicycles to choose from, including sporty road bikes and comfortable electric mama-chari for hilly areas! ❗️You can select based on your fitness level and purpose.

After a refreshing sweat from cycling, enjoy a relaxing moment at the famous Tokachigawa Onsen and indulge in exquisite gourmet food! 😍
Guests staying at Tokachigawa Onsen can rent bicycles at a special discounted price, which is more affordable than usual. (Note: Hotel Tetora Resort Tokachigawa is not eligible for this discount.)

🔶Event Period: Saturday, April 25, 2026 – Saturday, October 31, 2026
🔶Reception Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
🔶Return Time: Please return by 5:30 PM.
🔶Reception Location: Tokachigawa Onsen Guide Center
🔶Age: Middle school students and above
*Reservations are not required.

🔶Access
About 20 minutes by car from Obihiro Station, about 40 minutes by car from Tokachi-Obihiro Airport
About 40 minutes by bus from Obihiro Station (Get off at the nearest stop: Garden Spa Tokachigawa Onsen, about a 5-minute walk)

🔶Contact: Tokachigawa Onsen Tourist Guide Center TEL: 0155-32-6633 (8:45 AM – 5:30 PM)

https://www.tokachigawa.net/

The filming location is "Takatori Castle" in Kamikoshima, Takatoricho, Takaichi District, Nara Prefecture.
"Takatori Castle" is associated with Toyotomi Hidenaga, one of the Toyotomi brothers, and is counted among Japan's three great mountain castles, making it quite a hidden gem.
What I want to introduce here is the "Kunimi Yagura Ruins" of Takatori Castle.
The Kunimi Yagura offers a panoramic view of the "Asuka-Fujiwara Capital Area," which is set to become a World Heritage site. This photo captures "Mt. Unebiyama (where the Mausoleum of Emperor Jinmu is located)," "Fujiwara-kyo ruins," "Asukamura," and "Mt. Nijo (a symbol of the ancient capital Nara for the people of Nara)."
Under good conditions, you can also see "Mount Hiei in Kyoto" and "Mount Rokko in Kobe."
The view, especially during the time from sunset to twilight, is magnificent.
Have you noticed it? In the distance to the right of Mt. Nijo, the skyline of Osaka's high-rise buildings is visible. One of those buildings is "Abeno Harukas."
Getting to the "Takatori Castle Ruins" involves a mountain trail hike. Please check the information and prepare suitable clothing and gear for a short mountain climb to enjoy your visit.
Additionally, Takatori Castle has no lighting facilities, and at night it becomes pitch dark, which can be dangerous. It's necessary to have lighting equipment like headlamps.
Last year, the Takatori New Tourism Association held a night walk tour. Please consider participating in such events.

Introducing Rental Bicycles🚲🚲

How about exploring Shihorocho by bicycle while enjoying the scenic views of the Nupuka Mountains and the beautiful countryside?
As you ride leisurely, you might come across your favorite cafes and picturesque spots🎶

By using the rental bicycles from "Charitabi Shihoro," you can enjoy the following benefits.
📍Benefit 1: A "500 yen discount coupon" usable at designated restaurants in the town
📍Benefit 2: A "free bathing ticket" for the onsen at the rental location, Shihoro Ryokan (available from 14:00 to 16:00 on the day)
*Please check during reservation as the onsen may be unavailable due to maintenance.

🔶Rental Period: April 24, 2026 (Friday) to November 2, 2026 (Monday)
🔶Rental Location: Shihoro Ryokan (10:00 to 16:00), 163 Shihoro Nishi 2-sen, Shihorocho
🔶Rates: 6 hours per day
・Electric Assist City Bicycle (2,000 yen)
・City Bicycle (1,500 yen)
・Kids Bike (1,000 yen)

🔷Reservations: Shihoro Ryokan TEL: 01564-5-2527
*Please call to make a reservation by 17:00 the day before your use.

🔷Contact: Shihorocho Tourism Association TEL: 01564-5-5213 (Weekdays 9:00 to 17:00)

🔷Access to Shihoro Ryokan
Approximately 40 minutes by car from Obihiro Station, about 1 hour by car from Tokachi-Obihiro Airport
About 1 hour by bus from Obihiro Station (get off at the nearest stop: Shihoro Shinkin-mae)


https://www.shihoro-kankou.jp/bicycle_rental/

Make your stay in Kushiro more comfortable.

At Kushiro Prince Hotel, we offer a variety of room types to suit your needs.✨

Enjoy a relaxing time while gazing at the cityscape and harbor views of Kushiro through the large windows.

It's perfect for both sightseeing and business stays.
Why not find the perfect room for you?

Reservations can be made through the profile URL.
▶Kushiro Prince Hotel
https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/

Introducing the Hands-Free Rental Bicycle Service🚲🚲

Leave your large luggage at the airport shuttle bus and set off light on your bicycle🎵

With a bicycle, you can enjoy beautiful scenery that is too far to walk or easily missed by car😊

As you casually stop by enticing places, you can fully experience the local atmosphere through the scents of the wind and air😍

While pedaling freely, you may discover special sights that you wouldn't encounter on a car or walking trip🎶🎶

Make sure to enjoy the overwhelming vastness and stunning landscapes unique to Tokachi🤗

We offer a range of options including "electric bicycles" for beginners and those lacking confidence, as well as "cross bikes" for smooth rides, and professional "road bikes" or "mountain bikes"🚴‍♀️🚴‍♀️
Choose according to your riding experience and preferred style❗️

🔶Usage Period: June 1, 2026 (Monday) to November 1, 2026 (Sunday)
🔶Service Route: Tokachi Obihiro Airport ⇔ Obihiro Station Bus Terminal
🔶Operating Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

🔷Important Notes
The hands-free rental bicycle service is available only to customers using the rental bicycles and is completely reservation-based.
*The service will be suspended during the Obon period and Silver Week due to airport congestion.

🔷Reservations and Inquiries
📍Departing from Tokachi Obihiro Airport
ANDOOR TEL: 0155-66-5894 (9:00 AM to 5:00 PM)

📍Departing from Obihiro Station
ECO Bus Center Rikuru TEL: 0155-23-5920 (9:30 AM to 5:30 PM)

https://andoor.jp/%e6%89%8b%e3%81%b6%e3%82%89%e3%83%ac%e3%83%b3%e3%82%bf%e3%82%b5%e3%82%a4%e3%82%af%e3%83%ab-2/

Hello, this is the En'emon Heritage Museum. As June begins, Shosenkyo Gorge is entering its best season, showcasing vibrant lush greenery🌿

The massive rock tunnel known as "Stone Gate" along the walking path in Shosenkyo.
The enormous rock above hangs in an unstable shape yet remains completely still, with its tip slightly separated from another rock. You will surely experience its thrilling grandeur.

The summer light streaming in from beyond the gate, combined with the fresh deep green scenery, feels like an entrance to another world✨
Pass through the Stone Gate and recharge with the refreshing energy of summer.

At our store, we offer a variety of raw stones and jewelry, including newly arrived unique amethysts💎
The amethyst geode in the photo displays a gentle purple color that beautifully stands out as a piece of room decor.
When you visit Shosenkyo, please stop by.

We sincerely look forward to your visit😊

Nestled along the rugged coastline of Otaru, Hokkaido, stands the remarkable Sea Lion Rock, a lesser-known gem that remains largely undiscovered by international visitors. In winter, the surrounding waters become a gathering place for hundreds of Steller sea lions, creating a spectacular wildlife scene against the dramatic backdrop of the Sea of Japan. As the seasons change, summer brings flocks of black-tailed gulls that fill the skies and cliffs with life.
Rising behind this iconic rock formation is the striking red-and-white Shukutsu Observatory, visible prominently above the coastline and extending toward the vast Sea of Japan. Together, the observatory, the wildlife, and the rugged seascape create a breathtaking panorama that captures the essence of northern Japan's natural beauty.
While Otaru is often celebrated for its canals and historic streets, this hidden coastal viewpoint offers a different perspective—one where nature, history, and scenery converge.

The sky reflected on the lake.
The sunrise seen from above the clouds.
And a drink that colors the night's journey.

In Eastern Hokkaido,
there are landscapes that gently calm the heart.

A journey wrapped in special moments,
healed by nature.

For accommodation, visit the profile URL.
▶ Kussharo Prince Hotel
https://www.instagram.com/kussharo_ph/

The rural landscape of Azumino and Mt. Jonen
This is the Horigane District
The rice fields are planted with rice, creating a lush green scenery. 😀

From Ohisama Road, you can see Mt. Jonen.
Head straight west from Daiou Wasabi Farm to encounter this view! 😄