Hello, this is Shosenkyo Crystal Sound. Although it’s past mid-September, the hot days continue. How are you doing? At Shosenkyo, you can still feel the heat, but a refreshing autumn breeze is beginning to arrive, and it lifts the spirits. The iconic Kakuen Peak of Shosenkyo stands out brilliantly against the blue sky. You might know lapis lazuli and sapphire as September birthstones… But actually, kunzite is also a September birthstone! Its gentle, pale pink hue soothes you just by looking at it. The gemstone’s meanings are “love, peace, motherhood,” a compassionate stone that shelters and protects with inner strength. Many other natural stones stand in neat rows as well. Please take your time strolling and enjoy touching the stones. All our staff sincerely look forward to welcoming you.

Hello, this is Jewelry Town. The hot days continue, but the dry heat has made the breeze pleasant. When you visit Senga Falls, you can feel plenty of negative ions that soothe both mind and body 🌳 Our shop also carries many stones that give off power rivaling the scenery of Shosenkyo Gorge. Rutile quartz remains very popular! There are not only gold rutile varieties but also red rutile! Lapis lazuli, famous as a September birthstone, displays a captivating deep ultramarine blue. Please stop by during your stroll and feel the power of the stones ☺️

Hello 😃 This is Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Main Hall. Finally, the clear blue sky has returned after a long time, and it feels exciting. Now is a great time to stroll through Shosenkyo Gorge! By the way, the other day we saw a beautiful rainbow that matched the mountains of Shosenkyo Gorge, creating a lovely view. At the moment, Wine Kingdom is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Yamanashi Wine Club and, as a token of our gratitude, we are pleased to introduce the "Anniversary Set." The set includes many of Yamanashi Wine Kingdom’s recommended products, so please take a look when you visit. Be sure to experience Shosenkyo Gorge as it moves into autumn.

Kawakami Gorge Kawakami Gorge lies deep in the mountains of Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. The gorge forms the uppermost reaches of the clear Okudake River, flowing from the ridgelines of the Sobo–Katamuki mountain range. The deep green of the forest, the white of large granite boulders, and the water running between them create a striking contrast. Although tucked deep in the mountains, you can enjoy a proper hike or simply walk along the gorge in summer to take in the rich natural forest; it feels cool even in summer. Be careful: the riverbed is slippery. Near Kawakami Gorge is LAMP Bungoono, an accommodation converted from a closed elementary school, where you can also enjoy a Finnish-style sauna. Location: Obeira Mine, Ogata Town, Bungoono City It is about a 50-minute drive from the center of Ogata Town, Bungoono City.

Kawakami Gorge Kawakami Gorge is a ravine deep in the mountains of Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. It lies about a 50-minute drive from the center of Ogata Town in Bungoono City. Kawakami Gorge sits at the headwaters of the clear Oku-dake River, where the blue, crystalline stream and frothing white rapids create a strikingly beautiful scene. Walking along the gorge lets you enjoy the rich natural forest, and the area feels cool even in summer.

Hello everyone, this is the Shosenkyo Tourism Association. The forecast predicted rain today, but it mostly held off and only sprinkled a little. When the sun breaks through, the sunlight can be strong and temperatures rise. Please take a break in cool spots like around the fountains and enjoy your time.💡 #Shosenkyo #Mitake Shosenkyo #Ontake Shosenkyo #Yamanashi Prefecture #Yamanashi #Kofu City #Kofu #sightseeing #travel #Yamanashi trip #Yamanashi tourism

Hello! This is the Shosenkyo Gorge Tourism Association. Today was a clear, pleasant day. It’s a season to fully enjoy the blue sky, green trees, and the beauty of nature. Take care to avoid heatstroke and sunburn by drinking water regularly and applying sunscreen so you can have a great time! #Shosenkyo Gorge #Mitake Shosenkyo #Mitake Shosenkyo #Yamanashi Prefecture #Yamanashi #Kofu City #Kofu #tourism #travel #Yamanashi trip #Yamanashi sightseeing

Hello, this is Gen. It's August, and the heat has been building day by day—how is everyone doing? At the top of Shosenkyo Gorge waterfall, we've prepared wind chimes to bring you a little coolness and blow this heat away.😃 The sound of these wind chimes is pure and calming, and it can guide brain waves into the alpha range to produce a relaxing effect. Because their frequencies match sounds like babbling streams and birdsong, people perceive them as soothing.‼️ Traditionally, their sound has also been said to ward off evil and purify, removing negative energy and improving luck and fortune.‼️ The hot days continue, but if you have the time and leisure, please come to Shosenkyo to cool off.‼️ We look forward to seeing you.✌️

Hello 😃 This is the Shosenkyo Tourism Association! Today we visited Itajiki Valley Great Waterfall. The roughly 30-meter waterfall sits unspoiled by any man-made structures, offering a mysterious, untouched natural scene. The spray from the falls brings a coolness that makes it a perfect power spot for hot summer days 💦 Please be sure to visit Itajiki Valley Great Waterfall, a hidden gem of Shosenkyo Gorge. For directions and detailed information, please refer to the Shosenkyo Tourism Association website. We look forward to welcoming you to Shosenkyo.

Summer is finally here, and Shosenkyo has been seeing many hot, sunny days — how is everyone doing? At Shosenkyo’s Senga Falls, the powerful spray fills the air with negative ions, making it wonderfully cool and refreshing.☺️ At Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Senga Falls shop, we have a selection of award-winning wines from the Japan Wine Competition 2024 (including different vintages) waiting for you.🍷♪ This hot summer, let’s enjoy delicious wine😄 and stay full of energy! We look forward to your visit ^_^

Located on the western edge of tokyo​, okutama​ offers a striking contrast to the urban landscape. With its lush mountains, serene lakes, and a mesmerizing limestone cave, Okutama provides an ideal setting for both exhilarating outdoor activities and peaceful relaxation. Its close proximity to the city center makes it a popular choice for day trips.

Hello. This is Ryusuido at Shosenkyo Crystal Valley 😊 It turned July and the heat has been intense; how is everyone feeling? Near Senga Falls, the spray from the waterfall feels like a refreshing shower, and sunlight filtering through the trees reflects off the water to create a beautiful sparkle ✨ At Ryusuido above the falls, we offer many summer-perfect stones such as larimar and elestial amethyst. Please drop by our cool shop inside as well 😄 All of our staff look forward to the day we can meet your wonderful smiles.

Hello 😀 This is the Shosenkyo Gorge Tourism Association. The rainy season has finally ended and summer vacation is here — the sightseeing season has arrived! Come and visit Shosenkyo Gorge 😆 The first photo shows the familiar Kakuempou, the main peak of Shosenkyo Gorge, rising about 180 meters. See the majestic rock mountain with your own eyes. The second photo shows Senga Falls. This roughly 30-meter waterfall chills only the area around it, offering a refreshing coolness. The third photo shows the fissure in the earth directly behind Senga Falls. Don’t miss the spectacular sight of the towering split rock. We look forward to your visit 🙂

Hello, this is the Shosenkyo Tourism Association 😊 On cloudy days, Kakuempō at Senga Falls looks as if the clouds have descended within arm’s reach, giving it a uniquely charming atmosphere. The dull weather has continued, but all the staff at the tourism association are full of energy 💪 When you visit Shosenkyo, please be sure to stop by the various shops and enjoy a wonderful time 🙂

Hello, this is Waraji, a local Koshu cuisine restaurant. Even though the rainy season hasn’t officially ended, hot days keep coming one after another. Since more rainy days are expected, please watch your step when visiting Shosenkyo Gorge. Our original Waraji summer-only menu item, Three-Color Somen, has started again this year! The plum, egg, and matcha flavors whet the appetite, and the firm texture and smooth, slippery finish of the noodles are superb. The crispy tempura and the light, juicy char grilled iwana (Japanese char) that come with the somen are Waraji’s recommended specialties. Please enjoy the Three-Color Somen, which you can eat in a single, refreshing slurp.

Hello 😃 This is Yamanashi Wine Kingdom main building. The days have been humid and hot this season. How are you doing? If you started a new life in April, you might be feeling worn out by now. When that happens, why not take a walk in Shosenkyo Gorge, breathe the fresh air, and enjoy the negative ions from Senga Falls to refresh yourself? Looking at crystals and gemstones can also be very soothing!

[Recommended Spot &Activities Special Feature for summer] In the Kiso, you can Spot There are a beautiful Valleys and canoe that will take your breath away. Here are some of them! Kiso in the mountains also introduces recommended forest bathing spots. Please spend this summer in Kiso! !! -------------------------------------- 【Atera Canyon】 Restrooms available in Okuwa Village, an emerald green valley known for its Atera Blue. After sightseeing in Atera Canyon, why don't you have a delicious coffee and cake at "Coffee Katana" in Nojiri, Okuwa Village?! Please see the trip ideas on the Kiso Tourism Federation's Home page "Kiso Valley Rippu"! * Atera Canyon will be subject to traffic restrictions during the summer. July 13, 2024 ~ September 1, 2024. Shuttle buses and e-bikes are also available for rent. For details, please see the Home page of Okuwa Village. 【Kakizore Canyon】 Kakizore Canyon in Nagiso Town. A beautiful emerald green Valleys that is as beautiful as Atera Canyon. After enjoying a hike in the Kakizore Canyon, we also recommend Affoguard, which is popular at Tsumago juku's "Good Day Coffee". It takes about 25 minutes by car from Kakizore Canyon to Tsumago juku 【Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest】 A natural Cypress tree forest in Agematsu town with an average age of more than 300 years. Fun on the forest railway for forest bathing and forest therapy. *The park is scheduled to be open until November 7, 2024. 【Shizenko Nature Lake】 Shizenko Nature Lake in Otaki village. A natural lake formed during the earthquake in western Nagano Prefecture. You can fully feel the beauty created by nature. Here, you can experience canoeing from April ~ mid-November every year. You can also Fun canoe touring at Lake Ontake. *Reservation required TEL: 070-9119-6262　 【Lake OkuKiso】 At Lake Oku Kiso in Kiso village, you can experience SUP and canoeing. Activities in Nature while experiencing the beauty of the water of the Minamoto are the best! * Lake Oku Kiso canoeing, SUP experience until around October. Reservation required TEL: 0264-36-2777 ♦ If you are interested or have any questions, please feel free to contact the Kiso Tourism Federation!

Hello, I’m Gen 👋 In June, when fresh green leaves appear, many visitors enjoy the gorge’s scenic beauty from the riverside promenade at Shosenkyo Gorge. The standard trekking route is an out-and-back of about 6 kilometers‼️ (Duration: about 1 hour 30 minutes). Starting from Nagatoro Bridge, the gateway to Shosenkyo Gorge, you walk along while admiring the strange rock formations and soon reach Tenkorin, a prefectural natural monument. If you continue along the riverside promenade, you will arrive at Yume no Matsushima. *This is a photo spot with a view of Kakuembou* 📸 If you go further, you’ll find the huge natural arch stone gate, and after about a 500-meter walk you’ll come upon the dramatic Senga Falls! Before the rainy season begins, take your time strolling the promenade and enjoy the seasonal scenery‼️

Hello 😃 This is Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Senga Falls Store! June has arrived and the weather is humid, but Shosenkyo Gorge is full of fresh green leaves and a refreshing breeze blows through the area 🍃 Near the falls you can feel the spray and find a cool spot. You can also see the rare view directly above the falls from the wooden deck 👀 Please be sure to take a look! A new wine has arrived at Yamanashi Wine Kingdom next to that wooden deck ☀️ This unusual Yamanashi wine is made from Chardonnay and Syrah. It’s a crisp, dry wine recommended for hot summers, so please give it a try. When you visit Shosenkyo, please stop by ☺️

It is located in Maki Manoon Nature Park, Daisen City, Akita Prefecture Summerless Waterfall Fallen trees and you can feel the long age. It's a very cool place because I don't know summer.

Hello 😃 This is Ryusuido at Shosenkyo Crystal Valley. The greenery 🌿 has deepened and grown more vivid, making this a perfect season for a walk. The rainy season ☔️ is coming, but on rainy days the gorge looks like an ink painting—mysterious and enchanting—and offers a different side of Shosenkyo to enjoy‼️ Ryusuido reopened after renovations on May 1. Reborn with the concept of “healing,” the space has been refreshed! We hope good fortune ✨ visits everyone who comes. Inside the shop, the symbols of ascending and descending dragons create a soothing atmosphere where you can hear the sound of Senga Falls and feel the warmth of natural wood☺️ There are many spots above the falls where you can forget your daily life and simply enjoy yourself, so please come visit Shosenkyo‼️ We look forward to the day we can see your wonderful smiles.

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Video! This is Nagiso Tourism Association. Nagiso town in Kiso District, Nagano Prefecture, is a town of about 3,600 people located in the southwest of Nagano Prefecture. Ninety-four percent of the town is forest, and about 70 percent of that is national forest. The town is made up of seven areas: Yogawa, northern Kakizore, Midono, Tsumago, Araragi, Hirose, and Tadachi. In Cool Japan Video we will introduce Nagiso town’s charms in depth, so please look forward to it! ◆History of Nagiso town, Nagano Prefecture◆ Nagiso prospered during the Edo period as a post town on the Nakasendo, the route connecting Kyoto and Edo. Tsumago inn and Midono inn still preserve the old streetscapes where travelers once met and culture flourished. ◆Tourist attractions in Nagiso town, Nagano Prefecture◆ Tenpaku azalea colony Located in Tenpaku Park, this massive colony of mitsuba azaleas is designated a town natural monument. At peak season in spring, some 400 azalea plants paint the park in beautiful pinks and whites. From the park’s hill you can also get views of Mount Kiso-Komagatake and the surrounding landscape. Tsumago Yado Preservation District Maintained as the 42nd post town from Edo on the Nakasendo, Tsumago still strongly reflects the atmosphere of the Edo period. In 1976 it was designated a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. At Wakihonjin Okuya you can experience traditional life around an irori hearth. Strolling the old streets lets you feel the timeless romance of travel. Kakizore Canyon Considered one of the most beautiful gorges along the Kiso Road. In spring you’ll see azaleas and rhododendrons, and in autumn the canyon’s foliage is stunning, making it a year-round scenic spot. Using the nature trails and riverside walkways, you can view granite-carved falls such as Ushigataki Waterfall and Kiriga Falls. Tadachi Falls The name Tadachi Falls collectively refers to waterfalls in the Otaki River gorge, including Uru Falls, Rasen Falls, Senshin Falls, Kiriga Falls, Amakawa Falls, Fudo Falls, and Somen Waterfall. In 1990 Tadachi Falls was selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls, and in 2020 it became part of Central Alps National Park. Yogawa Michi Yogawa Michi arose as a detour route when the Nakasendo became impassable due to flooding of the Kiso River. The moss-covered roadside stones and bamboo thickets along the forest road make it an excellent hiking course. Momosuke Bridge Completed in 1922 more than 100 years ago, this 247-meter wooden bridge is the largest wooden bridge in Japan. In 1994 it was designated a National Important Cultural Property. MtNagiso At 1,677 meters, MtNagiso was historically a mountain for Shugendo ascetic practice. The climbing routes offer steep and gentle slopes as well as chain sections. It is popular as a mountain that is accessible for day hikes. ◆Local specialties of Nagiso town, Nagano Prefecture◆ Surrounded by forests, Nagiso has long preserved woodcraft traditions. ‘Nagiso rokuro zaiku,’ a traditional technique in which boards and logs are turned on a lathe and planed with a kanna, is carefully crafted by artisans one piece at a time. The delicate beauty created by generations of skilled craftsmen captivates many people. ◆Festivals and events in Nagiso town, Nagano Prefecture◆ Tadachi Hanauma Festival Held each October to give thanks for a bountiful harvest, this festival features three Kiso horses adorned with saddles slowly parading through town. In 1993 it was designated a Nagano Prefecture Intangible Folk Cultural Property. ◆Tourist information for Nagiso town, Nagano Prefecture◆ Nagiso town, Nagano Prefecture, offers magnificent natural scenery and a rich history that make it an appealing destination. Please come and spend memorable moments surrounded by Nagiso’s beautiful nature and history. Cool Japan Video will continue to share recommended and up-to-date information about Nagiso town, so thank you for your support.

Nice to meet you! This is the Otaki Tourist Association. Otaki Town in Isumi County, Chiba Prefecture, is a town of about 8,000 people located in the center of the Boso Peninsula. With convenient access about one and a half hours from Tokyo, Otaki Town charms many visitors with its natural beauty and rich history. In this first post, we will share Otaki’s attractions and recommended sightseeing spots, so please enjoy it to the end. ==History of Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture== Prospering from the Sengoku period through the Edo period, Otaki flourished as the castle town of Otaki Castle, whose lord was Honda Tadakatsu, one of Tokugawa’s Four Heavenly Kings. Otaki Castle is known as a symbol of Otaki Town and captivates many history enthusiasts and tourists. Scenes that recall those days still remain throughout the town. ==Sightseeing in Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture== ◇Otaki Castle This historical museum with a tenshukaku-style keep was built in 1975 and is designated as a Chiba Prefecture historic site and included in the Continued Top 100 Castles of Japan. Exhibits cover the history of Boso and life in the castle town. Currently, Otaki Castle is closed for facility renovations. ◇Otaki Castle Town Otaki features old buildings, some designated cultural properties. You can find houses that offer a glimpse of life back then, along with shops and shrines, making it an irresistible spot for history lovers. Stroll through the castle town that retains a strong Edo-period atmosphere and feel the romance of a journey through time. ◇Yoro Valley This valley spans Ichihara City, Kimitsu City, Kamogawa City, and Otaki Town in Isumi County in southern Chiba Prefecture, offering seasonal natural beauty and especially famous autumn foliage. Nearby popular attractions include Awamata Waterfall, Suigetsu Temple, the Ruins of the Kobundo Tunnel, Mukoyama Kyoei Tunnel, and Kannon Bridge. Please note that due to flooding of the Yōrō River caused by Typhoon No. 13 in 2023, much of the area is currently closed except for some parts. ◇Asawahara Highlands Known as one of the Kanto region’s premier hydrangea spots, about 20,000 hydrangea plants bloom here. At an elevation of 340 meters, the flowers bloom later than on the plains, with the best viewing typically from late June to mid-July. ◇Isumi Railway This local railway runs about 26.8 kilometers, connecting Isumi City and Otaki Town, with seasonal flowers and rural landscapes along the line. In early spring, the rapeseed blossoms turn the fields bright yellow and the train is affectionately known as the Rapeseed Flower Train. ◇Roadside Station Takeyurano Sato Otaki Local fresh vegetables and specialty products are sold here, making it a great place to buy Boso souvenirs. At the diner you can try shiitake and Otaki’s specialty bamboo shoot dishes, as well as wild game such as boar. ==Local Festivals and Events in Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture== ◇Otaki Castle Festival Held every autumn, the festival features a warrior procession and various events. A popular local festival, 2024 marks its 50th edition. ==Local Specialties and Gourmet in Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture== Otaki bamboo shoots are among the leading products in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Their white color and exceptional tenderness earn them the name “white bamboo shoots.” They have very little bitterness, so they can be eaten without removing the astringency. Otaki bamboo shoots are also popular as a hometown tax return gift. ==Tourist Information for Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture== Otaki Town in Chiba Prefecture charms visitors with its abundant nature and deep history. Spending time in Otaki away from daily life will create memorable moments. Cool Japan Video will continue to share Otaki’s recommendations and the latest information, so thank you for your support.

Hello 😃 This is Waraji, a restaurant of Koshu local cuisine. Shosenkyo Gorge is covered in fresh green foliage, and pleasant days are continuing. At Waraji we have added the Waraji Gozen as a weekend and holiday special menu. This special set lets you enjoy Waraji’s recommended dishes all at once, including Iwana trout with crisp skin and tender flesh, hoto noodle soup, simmered chicken giblets, and basashi (horse sashimi). It would not be an exaggeration to call this the definitive collection of Waraji’s menu items. Please enjoy it if you have the chance.

Hello everyone, this is the Shosenkyo Tourism Association. Today the weather cleared enough to see blue skies! At Senga Falls, where sunlight streamed through, the fresh green leaves were shining. The weather looks good for the second half of Golden Week starting tomorrow, so please come and visit us.

The Itajiki Valley, which had been closed due to a fallen tree, has reopened✨ Please exercise caution when passing through. With this reopening, you can now see the Great Falls. Come visit the refreshingly cool Itajiki Valley during Golden Week😊 *The photo was taken in June 2023.*

Hello 😃 This is Crystal Sound. Time flies, and it will soon be May — what a surprise 😅 At Shosenkyo Gorge, the trees are beginning to show plump new green shoots 🌱 as they welcome the fresh season, and you can see their vigor. You might also hear pleasant birdsong in the air. Why not take a leisurely walk through nostalgic streets, forgetting the passage of time for a while? A visit to Shosenkyo Gorge might fill you with energy ☺️ It could spark a change in your step starting tomorrow! By the way, the gemstone for May is emerald ✨ Its beautiful green color suits the fresh-leaf season perfectly. The gemstone meanings of emerald are… “happiness, good fortune, love, hope.” You can feel its sparkling power 😉 Come to Shosenkyo Gorge to heal a tired heart. All of our staff sincerely look forward to welcoming you 😆

It is "Kaya no Falls" in Hyakunoyama Canyon, Wakayama Prefecture. The Baanshan Canyon is also a mountain trail, and you can enjoy a waterfall tour.

Located in the mountainous area of Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture, the Oto Canyon is truly nature itself, and you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons.

Late April: The sacred tree of Kanazakura at Kanazakura Shrine is in full bloom 🌼 A notice from Shosenkyatto, Shosenkyo Gorge’s local mascot 🐱 Kanazakura Shrine is said to be deeply mystical and is known as a power spot. The sacred tree, Kanazakura, has long been famous in folk songs as the “money-bearing tree, Kanazakura.” 😳 It is said that if you pay respects to the cherry blossoms and receive a crystal charm in this season, you will be blessed with lifelong financial luck ♪ If you want money, you should definitely come, okay? Come to Shosenkyo Gorge this spring and during Golden Week! We’re waiting for you!