Notice about parking The snow has melted and spring is finally arriving🌸 Here is a notice about parking at Roadside Station Iwanai Please take note🚗 Parking at Roadside Station Iwanai is divided into several areas 1. Parking in front of the Kida Kanjirou Art Museum 2. Taramaru Market parking lot 3. Parking in front of the police box 4. Parking behind the Roadside Station Please be aware that the event plaza in front of the station is a no-parking zone Each year some visitors mistakenly park there We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your cooperation <(_ _)>

🚴‍♂️Tour de Yatsugatake 2025🚴‍♂️ Thank you very much for all your entries🙇🏻‍♀️ The entry deadline for Tour de Yatsugatake is tomorrow, the 16th❗️ We are still accepting entries, so if you haven't signed up yet, please hurry🚴‍♂️💨 The secretariat is based at Roadside Station Yachiho Kogen. *Entries are accepted via the QR code on the second page!*

Notice of Temporary Closure for Sandayu Public Toilet Repairs The Sandayu public toilet in the Sandayu parking lot at Lake Kussharo will be temporarily closed for repair work from Monday, March 17, 2025, through Friday, March 21, 2025. Closure period: March 17, 2025 (Monday) from 8:00 AM to March 21, 2025 (Friday) Location: Sandayu Parking Lot, Miruwa, Teshikaga, Kawakami District, Hokkaido For safety reasons, please refrain from using or entering the facility while the public toilet is undergoing repairs. The facility is scheduled to reopen as usual from March 22, but the schedule may change depending on the progress of the work. Any changes will be posted on this site, so please check for updates. Please note that the parking lot will remain available during the public toilet closure. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused during the closure period. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

[Hokule'a Shonan] is certified by the PADI 5 Star ID Center! [Hokule'a Shonan goes to the PADI5 Star ID Center] Hokule'a Shonan is the seventh dive shop in Kanagawa Prefecture to be officially certified as a PADI 5 Star Instructor Development Center (PADI 5 Star ID Center) in July 2024! [What is the PADI 5 Star ID Center?] 】 The PADI 5 Star ID Center is a special dive center 🤿 that not only meets the standards of a 5 Star Dive Center, but also provides training from beginner Sense OW divers to aspiring professional instructors This certification is awarded only to 5-Star Dive Centers that meet the following four PADI criteria and are recognized for their higher water level education and achievements: Education: We offer a wide range of educational programs from beginner to advanced Participation in community activities: Contribution through activities and events in the local community Environmental Protection Activities: Proactive Efforts to Protect the Environment Equipment & Experience: Extensive diving equipment and high-quality diving experience In this way, the PADI 5 Star ID Center is a certification built on our desire to "share the joy of diving with as many people as possible" and our belief that we want to provide safe, high-quality services to divers. [A diving experience that you can enjoy with peace of mind] Hokule'a Shonan is a small dive shop, but they put a lot of effort into meticulous care and safety measures. Since we try to respond closely to each customer, we have created an environment where you can Fun diving with peace of mind while valuing the relationship of trust between the instructor and the customer. Under the theme of "Let's embark on a journey to a world we have not yet seen!", we want to provide an exciting experience of discovering new worlds and values through diving. Hokule'a Shonan is not just a diving experience, but also a place where you can feel comfortable in harmony with nature and discover a new you. We will continue to work hard to bring you new discoveries that inspire your sense of adventure, experiences that make you feel Gari connect with your Nature, and Impression that will last a lifetime. When you come to our shop, we would be happy if you could talk a little about the sea!

🌼🆕 Sakuhomachi, Nagano Prefecture brochure 🌼 Hello everyone 🌟 This is the Sakuhomachi Tourism Association in Nagano Prefecture. The Sakuhomachi, Nagano Prefecture brochure has been refreshed! 😸👏🏻👏🏻 From today, you can pick one up freely in the Sakuhomachi, Nagano Prefecture section of the Roadside Station Yachiho Kogen Visitor Center 🌼💫✨ We also carry brochures for Minamimaki, Kitaaiki, Minamiaiki, Koumi, and Kawakami. Feel free to stop by anytime ✨

Announcement: Reservations Open for Komadeike Campground The cold days continue, but spring is just around the corner. Today reservations opened for Komadeike Campground, a campsite in Sakuhomachi. Reservations are currently accepted through the end of May, a brilliant time to see azaleas, fresh green birch and larch, and other highland plants. Information for the 2025 season is now posted on the Komadeike Campground website—please take a look. 🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🌸 Reservation Start March 5 at 10:00 AM (Reservations accepted for stays through May 31) Please note that phone reservations are not available until April 18. ⁡ Operating Period April 18–November 24 Some plans, such as cottages and bungalows, have shorter operating periods. Open dates: Friday, April 18, 2025 – Monday, November 24, 2025 (national holiday) The final day is for check-out only. Cottages and bungalows: April 21 – November 10 Showers (Green Tree / Auto Sanitary building): April 18 – November 3 The central shower building remains open through the final day. Reservation Windows March 5 at 10:00 AM — reservations accepted through May 31 April 5 at 10:00 AM — reservations accepted through June 30 May 5 at 10:00 AM — reservations accepted through July 31 June 5 at 10:00 AM — reservations accepted through August 31 July 5 at 10:00 AM — reservations accepted through September 30 August 5 at 10:00 AM — reservations accepted through October 31 September 5 at 10:00 AM — reservations accepted through November 23 Please refrain from tentative bookings. We will confirm with anyone booking two consecutive weeks or five nights or more. If we judge a reservation to be malicious, we may cancel it. Thank you for your understanding. Important Changes for the 2025 Season ☑️ Kayak events around Komadeike on weekends from July through September These events, which proved popular at last year’s KOMATSURI, will be held regularly. They offer a rare chance to leisurely tour Komadeike, which normally prohibits all activities. ☑️ Same-day check-in plan dedicated to solo campers introduced ☑️ Two-room tents added to rental tent lineup We will offer a limited number of Snow Peak Elfield tents. Try the now-common two-room tents at an affordable price. ☑️ Plans to build a walking trail that circles Komadeike (planned) ☑️ “Trip ’til You Get Home” service available at Yachi Cafe inside Roadside Station Yachiho Kogen We will offer Yachi coffee, an original Yatsugatake blend, at half price to one driver. Enjoy a good coffee before you hit the expressway and drive home safely. Other minor changes apply. 🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🌸🏕️🌸

23rd Arao Pear Blossom Genki Walk Saturday, March 29, 2025 The season of soft, joyful spring sunlight has arrived. Delicate white blossoms will bloom on Arao’s specialty pear trees. Would you like to walk through Arao’s spring scenery with us? We are pleased to announce an approximately 8-kilometer walking event that starts at Arao City Mall and goes to Mizuno Park and back. After the walk, we will hold a raffle with luxurious prizes, including gift certificates usable at Youme Town and a delivery of 3 kg of Arao pears this autumn. Event Date Saturday, March 29, 2025 (Reiwa 7) 9:00 AM–1:00 PM ※Held in light rain; canceled in severe weather Registration: 8:30 AM–9:30 AM Opening Ceremony: 9:30 AM Start: Mass start immediately after the opening ceremony Final Goal: 12:30 PM Course Start/Goal: Youme Town City Mall Parking Lot A Turnaround: Mizuno Park Eligibility Those who are confident in their physical fitness Elementary school students and younger must be accompanied by a guardian How to Apply ♦ Application Period From 8:00 AM on Saturday, February 1, 2025 (Reiwa 7) to 5:00 PM on Friday, March 14, 2025 (Reiwa 7) ♦ Application Method Online application form Search for “Arao Pear Blossom Genki Walk” Contact Arao Pear Blossom Genki Walk Executive Committee (Arao City Tourism, Culture and Exchange Division, Tourism Promotion Office) TEL 0968-63-1421 Participation Fee 500 yen (elementary school age and older) Competition Rules The event is conducted by walking the designated course. Participants must travel on foot only; bicycles, cars, and similar vehicles are not permitted. ※In the event of injuries to participants, first aid and coverage within the organizer’s insurance will be provided; other liabilities will not be assumed. Organizer: Arao Pear Blossom Genki Walk Executive Committee (Secretariat: Arao City Tourism, Culture and Exchange Division) Supported by: Tamana Agricultural Cooperative (JA Tamana); Arao City Tourism Association (general incorporated association) Cooperation: JA Tamana Arao Pear Section; Youme Town City Mall; Greenland; Yakiniku Nulbon Garden

Half of a snail Vacant house in Escargot

Tour de Yatsugatake 2025 Volunteer Staff Recruitment The historic cycling event "Tour de Yatsugatake" returns to Sakuhomachi in Nagano Prefecture for the first time in six years! 🚴‍♀️✨ We need volunteer staff to help make this comeback possible. If you love cycling, nature, or Yatsugatake, join us to help create an exciting event together 🎶 We look forward to welcoming you in Sakuhomachi! 😸💫💫 ◆ Venue Sakuhomachi, Minamisaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture Volunteers will be assigned to different positions and should gather at their assigned locations. The secretariat will contact you in advance. Examples: Parking staff = gather at each parking area; Chip collection staff = gather at each finish point ◆ Expenses Free of charge Lunch and a participation commemorative gift will be provided. *Please cover your own transportation costs to the event site.* ◆ Event date Sunday, April 13, 2025 ◆ Highlights Event resumes after six years An emotional cycling race Experience the great outdoors of Yatsugatake ◆ Who we are looking for Working adults, university students, vocational students, seniors ◎ Requirements ・Able to drive and travel by car on your own ・Able to prioritize communication with staff and participants ◎ Recommended for ・Cycling enthusiasts ・Nature lovers ・Fans of Yatsugatake The event takes place outdoors in cold conditions with remaining snow. Please prepare and take measures to stay warm. Participants of all generations are welcome People of many age groups will work together. Many staff in their 30s are active in the secretariat. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Volunteer Positions – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – ・Start staff: day-of registration, guiding riders, and other duties ・Finish staff (half-finish and full-finish locations): collect timing chips, guide riders, and other duties ・Aid station staff: manage water supply points ・Parking staff: check parking permits at entrances and monitor parking during the event ・Withdrawn rider recovery staff: assist in collecting withdrawn riders and their bicycles — applicants should be experienced in handling bicycles To apply, please scan the third QR code on the application form.

As some of you may know from newspapers and news reports, Onneto "Yama no Yado Nonaka Onsen," which suffered a fire last month, is currently closed entirely. A rope blocks the entrance to the grounds and a "No Entry" sign is posted. However, trespassing has continued, and some people have come asking, "Is the hot spring open?", while others have committed malicious acts such as entering the baths without permission. Nonaka Onsen is not operating at this time. False information appears to be circulating on social media, so please refrain from visiting out of curiosity. There is currently no timetable for reconstruction; we will announce the reopening when it is decided. Thank you for your understanding.

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Video! This is the Sakuho Town Tourism Association in Nagano Prefecture. Sakuho, Nagano Prefecture, lies toward the eastern side of Nagano in the central part of Japan, spread out on either side of the Chikuma River like a pair of outstretched wings. We will introduce many attractions and recommended spots in Sakuho, Nagano Prefecture, so please enjoy. - - - - - - - - - - - Recommended sightseeing spots in Sakuho, Nagano Prefecture - - - - - - - - - - - - ◆Shirakoma Pond Nestled in the vast primeval forest of Kita-Yatsugatake, this mystical lake glistens with clear water. It is the largest natural lake in Japan located above 2,100 meters. The trail to the pond winds through virgin forest of Kometsuga, spruce, and Shirabiso that have stood for centuries, while the forest floor is carpeted with moss as if a green rug has been spread across it. You can easily see alpine plants and the seasonal changes of wild nature here, and the area is also famous as a gateway for climbing and trekking the majestic Yatsugatake peaks. ◆Moss Forest The "Moss Forest," home to 519 species of moss. It was designated a "Precious Moss Forest of Japan" by the Bryological Society of Japan. Step into the woods and you will be struck by an expanse of blue-green moss stretching as far as the eye can see. Around Shirakoma Pond, ten individual forests have been named. Each has its own character and different moss varieties. Be sure to visit the mysterious Moss Forest of Kita-Yatsugatake. ◆Shirakaba Gunseichi (Birch Grove) Regarded as the most beautiful birch grove in Japan, Yachiho Kogen to the northeast sits on a plateau formed by volcanic activity. Some 500,000 birch trees grow across approximately 200 hectares. The tall, pale trunks stand in vertical rows with light green leaves, and the sound of the wind makes this a bright, pleasant forest. The area is also famous for large colonies of Rhododendron kaempferi, mitsuba azaleas, renge azalea, and Enkianthus perulatus, which contrast beautifully with the birch trees to create a rich white woodland. ◆Yachiho Highland Natural Garden Within the expansive grounds, stands of birch, larch, and mizunara oak form varied natural woodland, while clear streams, two waterfalls, and a wide variety of alpine plants change their displays with the seasons to welcome visitors gently. Three walking courses of different lengths are available, and you can enjoy refreshing strolls while listening to the songs of wild birds. ◆Yachiho Highland Arboretum The arboretum sits at an elevation of 1,600 meters. As you walk the highland you can observe natural birch groves, stands of sasa grass, and wildflowers up close. The trails pass streams, ponds, and waterfalls, offering scenes woven from pure water and plants, and you may also spot birds drawn to the water. ◆Komadeike Campground A well-located campground surrounded by what is said to be Japan’s most beautiful birch forest. Komadeike, the pond that serves as the campground’s symbol, reflects the blue sky and trees like a mirror on clear days, and its beauty is breathtaking. ◆◆Tourist information for Sakuho, Nagano Prefecture◆◆ Sakuho, Nagano Prefecture, is an attractive destination where Shinshu’s beautiful nature and traditions thrive. Cool Japan Video will bring you plenty of sightseeing information packed with the charms of Sakuho, Nagano Prefecture, so thank you for watching!

Sightseeing spot Lake Utonai (Tomakomai City) Lake Utonai is called "paradise for wild birds" and is an important stopover for migratory birds. You can feel the Seasonal Nature of the Nature, such as bird watching and nature walks. There is also a Roadside Station next to it, where you can taste local specialties! Why don't you heal the fatigue of your trip at Lake Utonai?

The 59th Onuma Hakodate Snow and Ice Festival, a major winter Events in southern Hokkaido that has been going on for many years, will be Held in again this year! The jumbo slide made by cutting out the frozen Lake Onuma is Popular! !! Please come and visit us! 【Date and time】 February 8 (Sat) 9 (Sun) 10:00~16:00 [Place] Onuma Park Square (near 1023-1 Onuma-cho, Nanae Town, Kameda-gun, Hokkaido)

[ Wakasa-gi Ice Fishing at Horokayanto Now Open! ] Wakasagi ice fishing opened on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at Horokayanto in Bansei, Taiki Town, located near the Hidaka Mountain Range. Please note that operations may be suspended without notice for safety reasons due to weather or ice conditions. Thank you for your understanding. [ Open Period ] From Sunday, December 29, 2024, until late February 2025, subject to ice conditions. [ Opening Hours ] From 5:00 AM to 4:00 PM. [ Fishing Fee ] Adults (junior high school students and older): 700 yen Elementary school students: 300 yen [ Contact ] Taiki Fisheries Cooperative Association, Horokayanto Management Building 01558-7-8866 [ Notes ] - Rental of ice drills, fishing rods, and sale of bait are not available on site. - A temporary toilet is installed beside the management building. There is no running water. - Because this pond adjoins the sea, a tsunami could occur in the event of an earthquake (including distant earthquakes). If there is any possibility of a tsunami, immediately return to your vehicle (even if you must leave belongings behind) and move to higher ground to protect your life. For the Taiki Town Office website, see below: https://www.town.taiki.hokkaido.jp/soshiki/nourinsuisan/suisan/wakasagi.html...

This photo was taken at the Forest and Starry Sky Camp Village in Motegi Towns, Tochigi Prefecture. While enjoying winter camping, you can see the beautiful starry sky and the Great Triangle in winter, so it is very healing.

This is a recent (December 20) look at Onneto. Snow covers the lake surface, but brushing it away reveals frozen trees and ice bubbles. As noted previously, walking on a frozen lake is very dangerous. For details on how to reach the lake in winter, please see the link below (tourism association website). https://www.town.ashoro.hokkaido.jp/kanko/spot/onneto_area/spot-13.html...

Climbed Yatsugatake’s Mount Yokodake This morning in Nobeyama the temperature was −14°C 🥶. It was bitterly cold, but I used my day off to inspect the trail and climbed Yokodake via the Somazoe Ridge 🚶. I was the only climber today, and since it snowed last night there were no tracks, so I had to break trail (posthole) the whole way 😱. I removed several fallen trees as I gained altitude, and just beyond the 2,600 m viewing platform I began breaking trail as expected 💪. In the drifts I sank up to my waist, and the steep section just below the Trident Peak was especially exhausting to slog through 😵‍💫 There was no wind today, so conditions were relatively good, but the Yatsugatake range is simply a windy, bitterly cold area 🌀❄️. A climbing buddy told me they recently escorted a lightly equipped climber off the ridge who had become immobile due to cold and inadequate gear 🥺. Winter mountaineering carries dangers very different from summer hiking ❗ Make sure you have sufficient knowledge and experience before attempting it 🥾 #Minamimaki Village #Nobeyama #Yatsugatake #Snow Mountain #Breaking Trail

From Soto Recipes! As a special return to everyone who supported us through crowdfunding of the luxury retort "Izu no Gokumeshi" that fully uses high-quality ingredients from the three towns of Shizuoka and Izu, we Held in a social gathering to eat "Izu no Gokumeshi" together in Izu with our ambassador Izu no Nushi Fishing. Izu Southwest Coast Tourism Promotion Council Three towns: Nishi-Izu Town, Matsuzaki Town, and Minami-Izu Town We received full cooperation in recipe development, etc. Chiaki, Representative of Soto Recipe Co., Ltd. Ambassador "Izu no Nushi Fishing" With everyone who supported us We enjoyed camping food unique to the southwestern Coast of Izu, such as "Dogashima barley wine", "Hon Wasabi and local fish", "Ghibier yakiniku", "natural eel kabayaki", "deep-fried ginaga shrimp", and "tide soup". Souvenirs include "Hot Spring Melon", "Bonito Dashi Salt", and "Matsuzaki Rice". There is a very much to everyone who participated.

Popular snow activities in Nayoro City, Hokkaido "Powder Snow Safari" A tour to the summit of Mount Piyasiri, next to the Piyasiri ski resort in the city. Ride a snowmobile through snowy forest roads and snowfields to meet the giant "Snow Monster". From the top of the mountain, if you are lucky, you can also see the "Sun Pillar", which is a Nature tabletop phenomenon, Mt. Rishiri on the northernmost Rishiri Island, and the Sea of Okhotsk. Rest assured that the snowmobile will have a driver. Rental items such as helmets, gloves, and spats are also available, so even beginners can enjoy it. Period: Late December ~ Early March Number of receptionists: 1 person ~ Duration: 2 hours ~ 2 and a half hours Fee: 12,000 yen/person (tax included) For details, search for "Nayoro Sightseeing & Town Planning Association"!!

This is the scene at Onneto this morning, Friday, December 6. The temperature is relatively mild, and many hot-water pits toward the back of the lake have prevented the ice from forming there. The ice seems to be repeatedly freezing and thawing, making it extremely dangerous, so please exercise great caution when approaching the lake surface. Also, as I have reported several times recently, the Onneto Line road from Nonaka Onsen to the lake is closed today and is now closed to vehicles for the winter. If you walk to the lake, be sure to take proper snow and cold-weather precautions and avoid accidents. Onneto is now heading into full winter❄️

This is the state of Lake Onneto as of Monday, December 2. Parts of the lake’s surface are frozen, but the ice remains thin in many areas. In recent years, more visitors have come to see the ice bubbles, but places where natural gas escapes have very weak ice strength, and some spots may never freeze solid even in full winter. For that reason, walking on the lake is extremely dangerous and is not recommended by the local tourism association. As previously announced, Road 949 leading to Onneto (the gate in front of the hot spring) is scheduled to close on December 6. When you visit, please take thorough snow and cold-weather precautions, and enjoy Onneto in winter safely.

This is the view of Onneto today (November 25). The road from the national highway into Onneto is packed snow and ice. Please take great care when traveling. The surface of Onneto has a thin layer of ice only along the shore. It will still take some time before the lake freezes solid. The Onneto Line road leading to the lake will be closed beyond Nonaka Onsen at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, December 6, and will be closed to vehicles for the winter (until April 11 next year). The road from the national highway to the hot spring will remain open, but you will not be able to drive past that point to the lake, so please be aware of this.

Winter Opening Hours for the Nobeyama Tourist Information Center The opening hours of the Nobeyama Tourist Information Center in front of JR Nobeyama Station will be as follows during the winter period. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and ask for your understanding. Winter Schedule ・Period: November 25, 2024 (Monday)–mid-March 2025 ・Hours: 10:00–16:00 ・Closed: Mondays (if a public holiday, closed the following Tuesday), and during the New Year holidays (December 29–January 3) Contact for closed-day inquiries Minamimaki Village Promotion Corporation TEL: 0267-91-1771 (closed December 29–January 3)

It’s autumn at Onneto. The fall colors have mostly faded, and the lake stands quietly as winter approaches. I haven’t posted in a while, but I plan to share updates little by little from now on!

㊙ Sightseeing spot introduction Tomakomai Research Forest, Hokkaido University (Takaoka, Tomakomai) The Hokkaido University Research Forest, which is close to the city and allows you to feel the four seasons of Tomakomai, A hidden Autumn leaves spot in Tomakomai. It looks like it will be in Best time to visit from around this Sunday! Forget the hustle and bustle of the city and become one with Nature. * Scenes from last year. 【Facilities site】 QR code

"Roundabout Tomakomai Stamp Rally" is being held in! !! If you visit 5 spots in Tomakomai City, you will receive luxurious Premiums by lottery! You can enjoy gourmet, Nature, history, and various Tomakomai! Please join us! Held in period:9/2~11/30

This is the Asakusa Samba Carnival held near Sensō-ji Temple, one of the famous samba carnival of Japan. It was really a beautiful experience. Very lively enjoyable performances.

Unfortunately it rained in the morning With a slight hope, we set off for Mt. Haruna! By the time we arrived at our destination, Lake Haruna, the rain had stopped and it was and sunny! I think the Traditional Japanese straw raincoat clouds gave a very good performance. In addition, the silhouette angler is backlit from the sunlight It fascinated me ♪ with the real thrill of the outdoors It became my favorite photo.

Limited to October and November “A Taste of Autumn in Azumino! Harvest Seasonal Apples, Enjoy an Exciting Bike Ride, and Try Making Apple Pie in the Orchard” [AM 3-hour Course] When the bright red apples hang heavy on the trees, spend a special time in the vast apple orchards A limited-time tour lets you savor apples at their peak♪ We look forward to your participation♪ For details and reservations, visit the Azumino City Tourism Association website

Summer in Japan is refreshing and soothing. Yes, it is humid, but every season has its pros and cons. The noisy cicadas, green forests, cool breeze, and lots of fun activities make it worth it. During my visit to Okutama this summer, I enjoyed summer water activities. One of the activities I tried for the first time was canyoning, and it was so relaxing and peaceful.