Photographed 7/26/25. It is a demonstration of the Kawagoe clan arquebus.

Yesterday was the Kawagoe Million Lights Summer Festival. 🏮

Azumino was hit by heavy rain. By evening the rain had stopped, and a beautiful sunset appeared.

Here you will find a world of black, gold, and dreamlike lacquer art It is called the Azumino Takahashi Setsuro Memorial Museum Setsuro Takahashi is a lacquer artist who represents the contemporary craft art scene Building on the traditional chinkin (gold inlay) technique, he created a unique lacquer art style using a method called yarigane On the grounds you can also see the former Takahashi family house from the mid-Edo period You can also enjoy a chinkin hands-on experience 😀 For details, please visit the official website http://azumino-bunka.com/facility/setsuro-museum/...

The hot days keep coming… Azumino is topping 30 degrees… On days like this, you might want to relax while gazing at a cool, clear mountain stream on the riverbed of the Nakabusa River flowing from the Northern Alps with a book you’ve been meaning to read and a cup of coffee… At the tourist information center in front of JR Oito Line Hotaka Station, borrow a cafe BOX and enjoy an Azumino picnic 😄 https://reserve.489ban.net/client/azumino-e-tabi/0/detail/850669...

On Tuesday, July 15 and Wednesday, July 16, we held the 57th Atami Kogashi Festival Float Competition. During the day, the rites of Kinomiya Shrine’s annual festival and the procession of the portable shrine took place, and at night 23 floats gathered on the national highway. Scenes from the festival https://www.ataminews.gr.jp/features/54...

In the past, there were "round-table discussions" and "historical walking tours" in the Tomi City Yoshizu area, where Azusa kamiko (priestesses) called "Nonou" who were said to be the "Village priestesses of No.1 in Japan" and who traveled around the world gathered. Local residents' volunteers held the "Nishinomiya-ri Development Association," which was attended by 15 people from inside and outside the prefecture, including history buffs and tourism officials. "In the Spring, a group of several to several dozen priestesses, led by the Shinto ritual Maitao, set out on a tour from Nonou Alley, and they divined their worries, sufferings, and wishes in the village where they toured," says Hirofumi Shinohara, secretary of the association. He is the "descendant family of the Shinto ritual Maitao (owner of Nishinomiya Shrine)", and Ancient documents are handed down to the house, and researchers who visit from all over the country and people who admire Nonou are accepted and visited to guide the history of the area. 　Four years ago, I held a walking priestess tour in Pre, and this is the second time. 　In March of this year, he published "Nonou's Picture Book" in order to let Local children know about it. At a roundtable discussion held at the Community Center, Mr. Shinohara said, "I would like to broaden my horizons and experience the history and culture of Jozu with Nonou." He explained his involvement with Sengoku Warlords such as Takeda Shingen, and how the area was spun by people such as the Sanada clan, Yamabushi, and Nonou of Yuzu while playing an active role. 　He also spoke about the endemic nature of Yoshizu, saying, "There were many things related to women, such as being kind to women, and there were a variety of livelihoods." Tyler Lynch, the young husband of Tokura Kamiyamada Hot Spring "Ryokan Kamekiyo," who participated in the event, said, "It is very interesting from a European and Rice perspective. Ms. Shinohara said, "There is no historical record that the priestess had a Gari of espionage activities or that she was acting as a female ninja, but since she was in a position to travel around the country and see and hear various Information, how she used it is Squid world of imagination." Kazuo Hayakawa, secretary general of the Shinshu Toumi Tourism Association, said, "I hope people will learn about the culture of Yoshitsu Village. There is also a culture where Nishinomiya and Higashimachi compete with each other." The historical walking tour was led by Mr. Shinohara and guided by Local officials such as Hiroaki Igarashi and Mr. Hayakawa of Jotsuin. After visiting Nonou's grave, the ruins of the mansion, the alley of Nonou, and the Nishinomiya Shrine, Mr. Shinohara "cleansed his body by bathing in cold Water at this well (the ruins of the mansion)." At the Nishinomiya Shrine, "I used to watch my grandfather printing bills until I was in junior high school." 　At Kanai alley, he said, "You can see Mt. Misaki from here, Mr. Kanai was in charge of the Mt. Mijayama Festival, and there were priestesses and priestesses among the hospitality, and they offered the deer caught on Mt. Misaki to the gods." Visiting the site of the Jotsu-in temple opened by Mr. Yoshitsu under the guidance of Sumitomo Igarashi. 　At the gravesite of the Yoshitsu clan, we learned about Roux and the face of the falconer sect, and the falconry ritual of the Suwa faith. 　In addition to this, we also visited the Maiden River, the megalith of the princess, the Nishinomiya Kabuki Stage, and the Higashimachi Kabuki Stage. Mayumi Castro Kagura, a priestess and writer from Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, said, "I've been interested in Yoshitsu for the past two years and have been coming here frequently. Kaori Yamazaki, a participant from Nagano City, said, "I have walked since I participated in the Walking Priestess Tour four years ago, and this is a good opportunity to listen to the explanations, so I hope it will continue in the future." Yu Takizawa, who participated from Sugadaira Highlands in Ueda City, said, "I'm planning a walking priestess tour with my friends, and I want to dress up as a priestess and walk while thinking about it." On July 7th, the members who participated this time will take the lead in holding the "Walking Priestess Tour" of the Yoshitsu Historical Walk. 　Under the guidance of Mr. Takizawa, the Traditional Culture Study Group groups, and under the guidance of Mr. Tyler, the "Ninja Project groups" will tour Yuzu. < Historical Notes> ◇ Nonou's tour of countries: Emotional support for the common people 　As a mediator between gods and people, Nonou performed "mouth-to-mouth" activities such as ringing the azusa bow and conveying oracles. 　It supported the spirit of the common people from the Sengoku period to the Edo period. The warlord also borrowed Nonou's mouth to obtain a prophecy of victory from the gods, alleviating the fear of death and giving him confidence of victory. 　In the Edo period, the largest number of nonou lived in the Village of Akizu, and there were about 50 nonou houses. With the approval of the Edo shogunate's temple and shrine magistrates, the Saiai Shinto Shinto ritual Maitao and Nonou, who presided over Azusa Jinko, formed a caravan and were able to tour the countries freely. 　In the Meiji era, activities were banned by the religious policy of the new government, and many sought new ways of life, such as closing businesses or immigrating. ◇Minamoto of Nonou Historical soil of Akizu 　As for why priestesses gathered in the Village of Yoshitsu, according to Higashimomachi magazines and magazines, it is considered that the land of Yoshitsu has been a soil for accepting priestesses since ancient times, and place names and remnants related to women and Shinto ritual. 　Tradition reminiscent of the origins of Nonou and the historical climate of Yoshitsu are listed in chronological order. 　▽ From the Kofun period to the Nara period, the central power advanced into the area, and the culture of the ancient center flourished in this area 　▽ The changes in place names that remain in ancient times (Umino Township→ Miss Village→ Maiden Township → Umino Sho) are place names that indicate the local character that has a deep relationship with "Yubu" in ancient times, and the figure of Yube, the priestesses who participated in the requiem Shinto ritual of performing Kagura dances and playing divine spirits, comes to mind 　▽ From the end of the Heian period to the beginning of the Edo period, the Shino clan of the Yoshitsu clan made a name for themselves as the best falconers in the eastern part of the country, and there are many secret traditions among the falconers, and shamanism can be seen in them. 　▽ The Yoshitsu clan is strongly associated with medieval Suwa, and the local characters "Mijakuyama", Iwai-do, and Kanai alley that remain in the former Akizu Village convey the faces of the Mijayama Shinto ritual (hunting Shinto ritual) that the Yoshitsu clan would have performed as a clan of the Suwa no kami clan. Mt. Misaki is a hunting ground, and Iwai-do is a remnant of a place (celebration hall) for divine festivals. Kanai alley is a place name that conveys the place of residence of the Kanai clan, who served as a deer priest who prepared dishes to be offered to the gods, and who served as a large city official who dedicated kagura at festivals and conveyed divine proclamations.　▽ During the Sengoku period, Chiyo Mochizuki, who was appointed as the head priestess (priestess) of both Kai and Shinano by a shuin stamp letter from Takeda Shingen, relied on her connections and settled in Yuzu Village. 　▽ In the Edo period, Yoshitsu was the main flag, so it was easy for Nonou and others to work and the backing of the shogunate. Toshin Journal electronic version2025-6-29 12:32 Theme: Quoted from Toumi News No.1 in Japan's Most Walking Priestess Village Picture book of "Yuzu no U"　 Planning and Publication: Nishinomiya Village Development Association (Nonou Research Group) Text: Hirofumi Shinohara Illustration: Hitoshi Maruyama Phone for Contact: 090-8509-5859 (Mr. Shinohara)

Gion Shrine Summer Festival July 15 was the Gion Shrine’s summer festival⛩ We covered the Morimaki ritual held before the ceremony📷 They shaped the makaya grass gathered that morning into the form of Yamata no Orochi💪 Makaya is stiff, and twisting large amounts at once is a real challenge😅 Still, the Morimaki Ritual Preservation Society finished it with impressive skill✨ The amazake prepared overnight also turned out exceptionally tasty this year😆 There were many more visitors this year, which made us happy😁 The local community cherishes their “Gion-san” It will surely continue together with the community going forward🥰

July 7 2025 (Reiwa 7) Tanabata Day It is the Milky Way that I found on a boat crossing the sea.

🐻🤎 Montbell Club Friend Fair Yokohama 2025 🐻 Thank you to everyone who stopped by the Sakuhomachi and Koumi booths! We showcased the high-altitude Lake Shirakoma, the mysterious moss forests carpeted with moss, and Yachiho Kogen, where you can enjoy nature through all four seasons—offering a full taste of Shinshu’s great outdoors.🌲✨ We were delighted that you picked up delicious local specialties and tourism brochures.😊🤍 Sakuhomachi and Koumi in Shinshu are perfect spots for a summer cooling getaway. We hope to meet you again amid Shinshu’s natural beauty.🌲🍁

👀Special Incense Exhibition 📢The Birthplace of Incense! A special limited-time exhibition of Sakai incense will be held!✨ The method of making incense came from China in the 16th century and spread nationwide. Sakai’s incense-making tradition is still carefully passed down by artisans today.🥰 Through the scents of incense, experience the roots of Sakai craftsmanship and the living traditional culture in daily life, and take this chance to appreciate the artisans’ handiwork and the beauty of fragrance Please do so now🤗 📅 Exhibition period: Friday, July 18 – Sunday, July 27 📍 Venue: Sakai Densho-kan, 2nd floor, TAKUMI EXHIBITION *Applications for the incense-making workshop on July 26 have ended. We look forward to welcoming you all👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Hyuga Mushiokuri The traditional event “Hyuga Mushiokuri,” held since the Edo period, will take place. Mushiokuri is a folk ritual performed across Japan to protect crops from pests. Date and time: Sunday, July 20, 2025, 3:00 PM Meeting place: Hinata Yakushi Participation fee: Free. If you carry a torch, an additional 500 yen applies (junior high school students and older). Contact: Hyuga Mushiokuri Preservation Society Office 090-3407-3205 (Yamaguchi) Please join this locally passed-down rite with your family and friends and experience it together.

Notice: Iwanai Shrine Annual Festival This year too, the Iwanai Shrine Annual Festival will take place over three days from July 7th to July 9th. Please be aware that some roads will be closed during the festival, so take care when coming to the area. Come and join the “Iwanai Festival.”😌 *The schedule was referenced from the Iwanai Shrine website.

Photographed on July 3, 25. I had an And at Iidabashi, and before that, I Prayer at Tokyo Daijingu Shrine. The Tanabata decorations were stunning. 🎋 Precincts around half past seven in the morning.

[Shinshu Sakuhomachi Nature Immersion Day Tour] 🍃🌿 \A day trip to soothe you in the great outdoors/ Event Date: Sunday, August 3 Highlights ✔︎ Walk around the moss-covered, mystical forest at Shirakoma Pond🌳 ✔︎ Tour a long-established sake brewery with tasting experience🍶 ✔︎ Lunch featuring local flavors: yamame fish rice bowl and soba set🐟🥢 ✔︎ Enjoy shopping at the Roadside Station Visitor Center✨🛣️ Departure and Return Locations ・Sakudaira Station, Asama Exit ・Roadside Station Yachiho Kogen Visitor Center ➡️If you live nearby, meeting and dispersing at the Roadside Station is convenient! Price: 9,900 JPY per person (tax included), includes lunch What to bring: comfortable walking shoes, rain gear Capacity: 25 people (minimum operation 15 people) Refresh your body and mind as you savor nature’s gifts with all five senses🫧 This charming day tour is perfect for making summer memories🌱 How to Apply / Inquiries Chikuma Kanko Co., Ltd., Saku Head Office Sales Phone: 0267-62-1000 (Hours: 10:00–17:00) ※Closed: Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, and during the New Year holidays Please join us with your family and friends.

A morning view of Azumino with the Northern Alps in sight Mount Jonen stands clearly visible I imagine many climbers are pushing on toward the summit today as well This is the view from Ohisama Road 😄

Good morning. This is Azumino, greeting a wonderfully refreshing morning. The Northern Alps are clearly visible.

It is a thatched circle of Kawagoe Kumano Shrine.

Ikuta Shrine. Marriage Water Lottery. I was so fascinated by the scenery immersed in water that I hurriedly pulled up.

Warm compassion in a single skewer The owner of the storefront who stopped by suddenly. When you ask for mochi, they ask you how much you favorite, such as the amount of mitarashi and kina flour. A shop where you can talk kindly and cheerfully to school trip students, feel the care for customers, and enjoy mochi and smiles.

Today, it's the Great Exorcism of Xia Yue. It is a thatched circle of Kawagoe Hachimangu.

Azumino’s summer tradition returns this year with the Azumino Fireworks Festival It will take place on Thursday, August 14th🎇 Look out for a special star mine celebrating the 20th anniversary of Azumino city’s incorporation❗️ Last night’s test launch lit up Azumino’s night sky♪ Please look forward to it😁

Would you like to come and see a festival that has been around for almost 300 years? The Sawara Festival is a festival held in Sawara, Katori City, Chiba Prefecture for three consecutive days from July 11 to 13, 2025. It is a very powerful festival with 10 huge festival floats dragging around the town. Songs and dances are also performed at the same time. Held in from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The stalls of the many is also Stalls, so you can enjoy it all day long. Access from Narita International Airports is to take the Keisei Main Line to Keisei Narita Station, Transfer at Narita Station on the JR Narita Line, and Get off at Sawara Station.

A summer tradition praying for protection from misfortune✨ This is Taisai Shrine in Miyoshi-machi, Miyoshi City. It is a seven-minute walk from the Miyoshi Mononoke Museum. The shrine grounds, where the solemn main hall and centuries-old trees harmonize, cleanse the heart. Known as the setting for the manga Asagiri no Miko, which features a miko as the protagonist, the shrine is beloved by many fans. At the roughly 400-year-old Ring Passing Festival, worshippers pass through a large straw ring to pray for good health and freedom from illness, a traditional ritual still carefully preserved today. It takes place exactly halfway through the year, every June 30th. Also known as the Yukata Opening, people in yukata gather to decorate early summer memories. Wrapped in a cool breeze, why not spend a time at Taisai Shrine feeling nature and tradition✨ ／The 400-year-old traditional Ring Passing Festival is held／ The festival will take place at Taisai Shrine from the evening of Monday, June 30th. For details about the Ring Passing Festival, please check Taisai Shrine’s Instagram🔍 Taisai Shrine 📍1112-2 Miyoshi-machi, Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture 🚙About 12 minutes from Miyoshi IC on the Chugoku Expressway Priest and miko are not always on site. Please check Taisai Shrine’s Instagram for the days when a priest is in residence.

An observation deck sits atop Mt. Nagamine. Climb this deck and enjoy 360-degree views, including the Northern Alps 😄. Please note it will be closed for repainting from June 23 to July 18, so it won’t be available during that time… 😢 If you hike during the day, take care to avoid heatstroke.

Motonosumi Shrine The winding Gari approach to the temple leads to the top of the Quay with 123 vermilion Torii (shrine gates).

Superb view on the way back from Sendai National College of Technology, Natori City, Miyagi Prefecture

A cozy free relaxation spot in Azumino 😃 Hachimen Daio Ashiyu (Footbath)♨️ This footbath is inspired by Azumino’s folk tale, the Hachimen Daio legend The water is a mildly alkaline simple hot spring known for its skin-beautifying effects Feel free to enjoy the hot springs of Hotaka Onsen Village 😊

Azumino is enjoying fine weather this morning ☀️ Mt. Tsubakuro and Mt. Ariake were clearly visible too It looks like Koshin will be hot again today… Please watch out for heatstroke 🥵

NEW Orahomap The refreshed Orahomap, now packed with the charms of Sakuhomachi, has arrived with extra features 😼💫💫 Check out the adorable hand-drawn illustrations that make you want to go out just by looking 👀🎨 "I didn’t know a place like this existed!" "I’d love to visit here~" You might make discoveries like these...🤍💭 Be sure to stop by the Visitor Center to take a look 😸