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Tomakomai Tourism Association
Oct. 1, 2023
👕Autographs from artists who performed at Mirai Fest are on display!🧣 We received wonderful autographs from the artists who appeared at Mirai Fest held in September!!🤩✨ They are displayed inside the Tomakomai Tourist Information Center, so when you visit Tomakomai, please stop by the information center too!!🙋‍♀️ We look forward to many visitors!!🎈🎈 [ Tomakomai Tourist Information Center ] ≪ Address ≫ 053-0022 1st floor, Friend Building, 5-11-5 Omotecho, Tomakomai City, Hokkaido ( ※ The bus stop is a useful landmark🚌 ) ≪ Hours ≫ 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM ≪ Phone ≫ 0144-34-7050
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  • Hokkaido Prefecture
  • Tomakomai
  • Japan
  • Tourism Association
  • Sightseeing
  • Local PR
  • Events
  • Outdoors
  • Singer
  • Festival
  • ...and 1 others
Kanagawa Tourism Association
Sep. 27, 2023
Hakone-en Celebrating its 60th Anniversary This Year! Hakone Komagatake Ropeway Resumes Operation on Wednesday, September 20 A sky-high panorama linking the shores of Lake Ashi to Hakone’s highest observation deck The Hakone Komagatake Ropeway at Hakone-en pleasureland on the shores of Lake Ashi had been suspended from June 19 for annual inspections and repairs, but it resumed service on Wednesday, September 20. The Hakone Komagatake Ropeway connects Hakone-en on the shore of Lake Ashi with the summit of Mt. Komagatake, spanning a total distance of 1,783 meters and taking seven minutes one way. The summit features Hakone’s highest observation deck, offering a miniature-garden view of Hakone centered on Lake Ashi. To the northwest stands the majestic Mt. Fuji and the Northern Alps; you can also enjoy a sweeping panorama that reaches Suruga Bay and the Izu Peninsula, the Shonan coast, the Miura Peninsula, and the Boso Peninsula. Opened on April 27, 1963, the ropeway marked its 60th anniversary in 2023. To express our gratitude, we have prepared a variety of events. Event Period: Sunday, October 1, 2023 – Monday, January 8, 2024 (Monday public holiday) Weekend and public holiday dates within the above period Times Upbound: 4:30 P.M., 4:50 P.M., 5:00 P.M. Downbound: 6:00 P.M., 6:10 P.M., 6:20 P.M. Starry Sky Commentary: 5:20 P.M.–6:00 P.M. Prices Adults ¥2,200 Children ¥1,100 The above fees include a round-trip ticket and a star chart. Service will be canceled in case of bad weather or other conditions. Excluding December 31, 2023 (Sunday) and January 1, 2024 (Monday, public holiday) On December 31 we plan sunset runs, and on January 1 we plan first-sunrise runs. Inquiries Hakone-en TEL. (0460) 83-1151 (Reception hours: 9:00 A.M.–6:00 P.M.) Commemorative round-trip tickets with a 60th anniversary pin badge are also available!
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  • Kanagawa Prefecture
  • Tourism Association
  • Hakone Ropeway
  • Hakone
  • Travel
  • Sightseeing
  • Japan
  • Autumn
COOL JAPAN VIDEOS STAFF
Sep. 25, 2023
Introducing the post of the "Ginoza Village Tourism Association" COOL JAPAN VIDEOS official social media account! Ginoza Village, Okinawa Prefecture is a village located in the center of Okinawa Prefecture. Surrounded by the highly transparent sea and lush greenery, there are plenty of scenic spots. Activities at Hangna Beach include jet skiing and banana boating.
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GINOZA VILLAGE TOURISM ASSOCIATION
Sep. 15, 2023
Nice to meet you! This is the Ginoza Village Tourism Association.
Ginoza Village is located in the center of Okinawa and is an attractive city with abundant water sources, beautiful nature, and historical traditions.
From Naha Airport, it takes about 1 hour by car and access is convenient!
You can take a bus to Ginoza Village along the beautiful coastline.

In order to let you know Ginoza Village, which is full of charm, in this post, we will introduce sightseeing spots and local gourmet foods of Ginoza Village!

The highly transparent sea of Ginoza Village is one of the attractions not to be missed!
Kanna Beach, which is characterized by an arch-shaped beach with a sand of about 500 meters, has gentle waves and is perfect for swimming.
You can also experience marine activities such as jet skis, banana boats and sea kayaking.

Kanna Dam, which was completed in 1993 Heisei 5, is a spot that has been certified as one of the "100 best dam lakes".
Kanna Dam is designed to preserve the ecosystem, and is home to gobies, black crabs, dragonflies, killifish, horsetails, and kingfishers.
In addition, in the downstream area, the leech forest mangrove that was lost due to seawall construction has been restored.

"Roadside station "Ginoza" is a spot that you should definitely stop by when sightseeing in Ginoza Village!
In addition to local specialties and souvenirs, it is a full range of facilities such as coin showers, free space, tourist information center, observation terrace, and barbecue on the seawall terrace.

In 2000, Ginoza Village began training agricultural workers at the Agricultural Successor Training Center.
As a result, "strawberry farms" in Ginoza Village have flourished, and "strawberry picking" where you can pick fresh strawberries is gaining popularity.

The local gourmet in Ginoza Village is popular for "jagamen" that can only be eaten at the roadside station "Ginoza"! The potatoes are kneaded and the chewy texture is addictive. Please enjoy it at "Cafeteria Manjiro" in the roadside station "Ginoza".

You can also buy raw noodles at Mirai Ginoza.

In Ginoza Village, traditional culture and events are cherished.
Traditional knife making, called "island knife," is a fusion of craftsmanship and beauty.
Located in Ginoza Village, Kaniman Blacksmith Studio is the only blacksmith shop on the main island of Okinawa that manufactures island knives.
It is also possible to make a custom-made blade that can be decided by consultation on the shape and material of the blade.
When sightseeing in Ginoza Village, please feel the craftsmanship of the historic traditional craftsmanship.

In Ginoza Village, there are hotels, pensions, and ryokans surrounded by a beautiful natural environment.
Please relax in the location overlooking the sea and hot springs to heal the fatigue of sightseeing and spend a luxurious time.

Ginoza Village is a place where various attractions such as natural beauty, warm people, and delicious food culture spread.
Please experience the charm of Ginoza Village and enjoy a wonderful trip!

We will continue to disseminate information about Ginoza Village, so we look forward to your continued support.
  • Ginoza
  • Okinawa Prefecture
  • Hannah Beach
  • Activities
  • Nature
  • Travel
  • Sightseeing
  • Tourism Association
  • Coast/Beach/Sea
Okinawa Kumejima Visitor's Bureau
Sep. 21, 2023
Nice to meet you all! Kumejima Visitor's Bureau. Kumejima, Kume Island a remote island in Okinawa with a population of about 7,300, is home to beautiful nature and rich culture. The Kume Island is located 100 km west of the main island of Okinawa, and access to the Kumejima is about 30 minutes by plane from Naha Airport on the main island of Okinawa to Kumejima Airport 7 flights a day. Kumejima Airport from Haneda Airport takes about 3 hours and 35 minutes. In addition, the ferry can be taken from the main island of Okinawa "Naha Tomari Port", Via Tonaki Island, it takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes to Kume Island Kanegusuku Port or about 3 hours by direct Kume Island flight. There are 1~2 ferries per day, so please be careful when using them. There are four ways to get around the island: town buses, rental cars, taxis, and bicycle rentals. You can rent a car from the airport if you make a reservation, and please check the reception desk of each company in the airport arrival lobby. There are town buses that go around the island clockwise and counter-clockwise, the Airport Line, the Shimajiri Line, and the Kagiyama Line, and the Airport Line mainly operates according to the flight time, so you can easily use it. The Kume Island is about 23km and can be circled in about 3~4 hours by bicycle. The Kumejima has a number of fascinating sights. In this post, we will introduce some of them. The ruins of the Gusuku period scattered throughout Okinawa are called "Gusuku castle". Chinese ceramics are sometimes unearthed from Gusuku, and it is a spot where you can feel the remnants of the era when trade with overseas was thriving. Located at the top of Mt. Uejodake, "Uegusuku Castle Ruins" is the ruins of a castle built at the highest point in Gusuku. From the summit, you can see the entire Kume Island and it is also a superb viewing spot. "Gushikawa Castle Ruins" is a gusuku located on a limestone hill along the coast. It is also a nationally designated historic site, and Gusuku is characterized by a castle wall that mixes limestone and andesite. Next, we will introduce the beaches where you can enjoy the beautiful sea of Okinawa. "Ara Beach" is a hidden gem spot like a private beach surrounded by mountains. There is no doubt that you will be impressed by the beauty of the mysterious sunset as well as in the daytime! Shinri Beach, a beach with gentle waves, has an atoll right off the coast, and you can see the atoll up close at low tide. Since it is close to the airport, it is possible to watch airplanes take off and land. In addition, if you apply to the town environmental conservation division, you can use it as a campsite for free. "Mifuga Rock" on the shore of Yamatodomari is a tourist destination that means "female rock" in dialect. There are strangely shaped rocks created by the wind and tide, and it is a popular spot that is said to be a blessing for children. At Kumejima Tsumugi no Sato Yuimaru-kan, you can observe the dyeing techniques and works of traditional Kume Island pongee, and you can also enjoy weaving and dyeing Kume Island pongee. The Kume Island Museum is a museum where you can experience the history and culture of Kume Island, and holds permanent exhibitions of "Kume Island Nature and Culture" as well as special exhibitions. Next, we will introduce information on activities that you can enjoy in the Kume Island full of nature. The "Maine Beach", "Nakano Beach", and "Hatinu Beach" floating in the northeast of the Kume Island are collectively called "Hatenohama", and you can enjoy various marine activities! There are plenty of diving spots in the Kume Island for beginners to intermediate divers and above. Recommended for beginners, "Manta Station" is a popular manta ray encounter spot. You can enjoy Black Manta watching up close. In addition, the diving spot "Tombara", which is representative of the Kume Island with a huge rock height of about 50 m, has a maximum depth of 30 m, which is suitable for intermediate skiers and above, and the tide is strong, but it is also an attractive spot because there is a possibility of encountering schools of migratory fish, hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, etc. You can also explore the beautiful ocean world on a snorkeling tour. You can also enjoy the charm of Kumejima by strolling along the coastline in a "sea kayak" where you can enjoy the surrounding scenery while paddling on the sea. There is also a two-seater kayak, so you can enjoy it even with children. At the "Kume Island Horse Farm" where you can enjoy interacting with the horses, you can enjoy horse play that can only be experienced here! You can also use the "Umi Uma Asobi" to enter the sea while riding a horse, as well as your favorite horse play and a back menu on request. Yajiyagama Cave, the longest limestone cave in the Kume Island, which is about 800 meters long, offers year-round exploration programs. Depending on the program, you can explore the mysterious limestone cave in about 1 and a half ~ 2 hours. Don't miss the gourmet food of Kumejima! Kumejima is also famous as a shrimp farming pond. The quality is highly evaluated by the industry, and it is also certified as a "base production area" by Okinawa Prefecture. The season is December ~ May. In addition, sea grapes and awamori are also delicious specialties. It is also a perfect souvenir for Kume Island. Kumejima is a place where you can spend a rich time through contact with nature and cultural experiences. We will give you the best information to make your trip to Kumejima enjoyable. Thank you for your continued support!
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  • Kumejima
  • Okinawa Prefecture
  • Uegusuku Castle Ruins
  • Gushikawa Castle Ruins
  • Coast/Beach/Sea
  • Arla Beach
  • Scuba diving
  • Diving
  • Kayak
  • Kumejima Horse Ranch
  • ...and 10 others
Kanagawa Tourism Association
Sep. 20, 2023
Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Videos—nice to meet you! We are the Kanagawa Prefecture Tourism Association. From this account, we will be sharing information about the many attractions across Kanagawa Prefecture, so please look forward to it. Kanagawa Prefecture is broadly divided into the following areas. ◎ Eastern Hills area (Tama Hills, Miura Peninsula) ◎ Central Lowland (Sagami Plain) ◎ Western Mountainous Region (Tanzawa, Hakone Volcano) Kanagawa, where beautiful nature and historic sites coexist, is truly a treasure trove for travelers. From the ancient city of Kamakura and the wave-lashed shores of Shonan to Hakone’s hot spring resorts, the vast nature of Tanzawa and MtOoyama, and the international city of Yokohama, Kanagawa hides many charms that captivate every visitor. Here is an introduction to Kanagawa Prefecture and its sightseeing spots! ■ Yokohama City [Eastern Kanagawa] Yokohama City, the prefectural capital, sits in eastern Kanagawa and offers diverse culture, leisure, and delicious food. There are many day-trip attractions, including Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise, and Minatomirai. Yokohama Chinatown is famous as a paradise for Chinese cuisine, and the area’s shops selling Chinese goods make it great for shopping too! ■ Miura Peninsula The Miura Peninsula is an ideal sightseeing area with an aquarium, beautiful beaches, historic temples, and a wide variety of activities. Its stunning natural scenery and rich history remain well preserved. You can also enjoy local gourmet seafood and other delicious dishes. ■ Yokosuka City [Northern Miura Peninsula] Yokosuka City is well known as a historic base of the Japanese Navy, and you can feel that history at many local sights. The city has also served as the setting for anime and games, hosting exhibitions and events in the past. Tsukuihama Beach is scheduled to host windsurfing World Cup events, and sports events are actively held here. From Mikasa Terminal you can visit Sarushima, Tokyo Bay’s largest uninhabited island. Yokosuka Navy Curry is a popular local specialty. ■ Misaki Port [Southern tip of the Miura Peninsula] Located near the entrance to Tokyo Bay, Misaki Port has been prized as a good harbor since the Heian period. It is famous as a tuna fishing port, and the area offers many restaurants serving delicious tuna and other seafood. ■ Hayamamachi [Western Miura Peninsula] Hayamamachi, an area of beautiful beaches and luxury hotels, is sometimes called the birthplace of yachting. The sight of many boats and yachts in Hayama Marina is breathtaking! ■ Zushi City [Western Miura Peninsula] Zushi City is designated under the Ancient Capitals Preservation Act to protect its historic landscape. Facing Sagami Bay, it offers many resort-style attractions where you can soak up a holiday mood. Zushi Beach is great for swimming and for marine sports like windsurfing and SUP. At the Riviera Zushi Marina, a stay-type marina resort, you can enjoy short cruises and ocean-view restaurants for a luxurious time. ■ Kamakura City [Southeastern Kanagawa] Kamakura City blends history and nature beautifully as an ancient city. Kamakura has many old temples and shrines, and its Pacific-facing coastline offers views that stretch to the horizon. Don’t miss Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and the Great Buddha of Kamakura (Great Buddha at Hasedera Temple), both designated national historic sites and Important Cultural Properties. ■ Chigasaki City [Central Shonan area] Chigasaki City is known as a surfing mecca, loved by surfers for its beautiful waves. Stylish seaside cafes and shops where you can dine while watching the sunset line the shore. ■ MtOoyama [Central Kanagawa] MtOoyama in Isehara City attracts many hikers year-round. From near Afuri Shrine, the terminal of the Oyama Cable Car at about 700 meters elevation, you can enjoy star-rated views in the Michelin Green Guide Japan overlooking Sagami Bay, the Miura Peninsula, and the Boso Peninsula. MtOoyama also has shukubo, 400-year-old temple lodgings for worshippers. These shukubo sit amid nature and offer simple, rustic rooms for a relaxing stay. Nearby lakes such as Lake Miyagase and Lake Tanzawa allow visitors to enjoy Kanagawa’s seasonal nature. ■ Oiso-cho [Western Shonan area] Oiso-cho is an area surrounded by rich nature. It offers beautiful beaches and resort facilities, and Oiso Long Beach is a popular seaside resort pool. Hotels and spas are also available, attracting many tourists. ■ Odawara City [Western Kanagawa] Odawara City is known as a historic castle town, famous for Odawara Castle, the stronghold of the Hōjō clan, and for its preserved old streets. Odawara Castle’s keep displays the castle’s history and crafts, and the Odawara Castle Ninja Museum (History and Folklore Museum) offers ninja experiences, making it a sight that adults, children, and international visitors can all enjoy. ■ Hakonemachi [Western Kanagawa] Hakone is one of Japan’s top hot spring areas and can be enjoyed on day trips or longer stays. Popular attractions you’ll want to visit again and again include the Hakone Open-Air Museum, HakoneRopeway, Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, the Hakone Tozan Railway, and Owakudani. ■ Manatsurumachi [Western Kanagawa] Manatsurumachi is a mild region of sea and mountains adjacent to Yugawara Town and Odawara City. It is known for its active fishing industry and offers fresh seafood to enjoy. ■ Yugawara Onsen [Western Kanagawa] Located between Hakone and Atami, this hot spring area features a hot spring district lined with traditional Japanese ryokan, preserving the nostalgic atmosphere of an old-fashioned onsen town. Kanagawa offers sea activities, marine sports, hot springs, great nature, and history—so you can enjoy it in many ways. Access from Tokyo is very convenient: it takes about 30 minutes by train or car to reach Yokohama in eastern Kanagawa and about one hour to reach Hakone and Odawara in western Kanagawa. You can also enjoy a casual drive-and-sightseeing trip from Tokyo. With seasonal scenery and activities all year round, Kanagawa is a destination you’ll want to visit again and again. Make an unforgettable page in your travel memories with Kanagawa sightseeing! We will publish Kanagawa’s attractions, sample itineraries, the latest information, and lesser-known hidden spots, so please stay tuned!
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  • Kanagawa Prefecture
  • Yokohama (city)
  • Miura
  • Miura Peninsula
  • Yokosuka
  • Hayama
  • Zushi
  • Misaki Port
  • Kamakura
  • Kotokuin(Kamakura Dabutsu)
  • ...and 10 others
COOL JAPAN VIDEOS STAFF
Sep. 19, 2023
Introducing the post COOL JAPAN VIDEOS official social media account "Okhotsk Ozora Town Tourism Association"! Hokkaido Ozora Town is a town in the east of Hokkaido. There are plenty of attractive spots such as "Roadside Station NonkyLand Higashimokoto", which also has a hotel, and "Meruhen no Oka", where you can enjoy a superb view like a painting. We also recommend the local gourmet "Ozora pork shabu long modon".
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Okhotsk Ozora Town Tourism Association
Sep. 5, 2023
Nice to meet everyone who watched the COOL JAPAN VIDEOS!
This is the Okhotsk Ozora Town Tourism Association that disseminates attractive information about Hokkaido Ozora Town.

Ozora Town is a town located in the east of Hokkaido and was formed in 2006 by the merger of Memanbetsu Town and Higashi Mokoto Village.
In this first post, we will introduce the highlights of the Ozora Town. Enjoy!

We will introduce how to access Hokkaido Ozora Town.
【Access by plane】
◯ Tokyo Haneda Airport 〜 Memanbetsu Airport ... Approx. 1 hour 50 minutes
◯ Sapporo New Chitose Airport 〜 Memanbetsu Airport ... Approx. 50 minutes
◯ Osaka・Kansai International Airport 〜 Memanbetsu Airport ... Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes

【Access by train】
◯ JR Sapporo Station 〜 JR Memanbetsu Station ... About 5 hours 30 minutes by "Limited Express Okhotsk" / JR Asahikawa Station ~ JR Memanbetsu Station...About 3 hours 30 minutes by "Limited Express Oyuki"
◯ Sapporo 〜 Memanbetsu ... Approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes by intercity bus "Dreamint Okhotsk" reservation required

Hokkaido Ozora Town has a climate with a large temperature difference, so it is recommended to check the weather forecast when planning a trip.
Since there is little precipitation throughout the year, there are many sunny days, making it perfect for sightseeing!
In summer, the average temperature is around 20°C, making it a comfortable climate.
Snowfall in winter is from late October to late April. The minimum temperature can be -27°C, and the cold is severe in the region.

A Ozora Town where you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons!
From here, we will introduce the sightseeing spots.
With the arrival of warm spring, the Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park Higashimokoto moss phlox Park, where the beautiful pink carpet of the moss phlox spreads, is a popular moss phlox spot.
The park has an observatory, a pink torii gate, and a sightseeing wheel.
The picturesque scenery in the vast park is a must-see! Flowering time around May ~ early June

In summer, the vast sunflower field is in full bloom, and yellow flowers spread out like the sun.
"Tomap River Park" is the earliest sunflower field in the Ozora Town.
It is located about 10 minutes by car from Memanbetsu Airport and has good access. Flowering time: mid ~ late July

Asahigaoka Park, which is famous for enjoying sunflowers for a long time, is a popular spot for the superb view from the observatory.
From the observatory, you can overlook Lake Abashiri, Mt. Shari, and the Shiretoko mountain range. Flowering time: late July ~ mid-September

The sunflower field next to Memanbetsu Airport is a hot place in social media where you can take pictures of airplanes and sunflowers!
You can enjoy about 400,000 sunflowers. Flowering time: early ~ late August
Since it is located next to Memanbetsu Airport, you can take pictures as if an airplane is taking off and landing in a sunflower field.

"Roadside Station NonkyLand Higashimokoto" with a hotel is also a popular spot!
At the shop, you can enjoy local flavors such as souvenirs, local specialties, "juicy meat buns" of Hokkaido beef and long potatoes.
It is also possible to stay at "Hotel Higashimokoto" in the Roadside Station. You can choose from twin, DLX twin, and Japanese-style rooms. There are no hot springs in the hotel, but there is a hot spring facility "Fureai Center Phlox" about 2 minutes by car from the hotel or about 9 minutes on foot, equipped with a whirlpool bath and sauna. You can slowly heal the fatigue of traveling.

Located about 10 minutes by car from Memanbetsu Airport, "Meruhen no Oka" is also a popular tourist destination that cannot be missed.
It is a famous spot for its fairytale scenery lined with seven larches.
The vast countryside spreads out and you can enjoy the picturesque scenery.
One of the highlights is the nearby Roadside Station "Meruhen no Oka Memanbetsu"!
There is a corner selling freshly caught locally and a local product corner, and you can enjoy gourmet food using local ingredients such as "Ozora pork shabu long modon" at the on-site restaurant.
There is also a free "dog run" where dogs can easily play.

Mt. Mokoto, where you can enjoy the rich nature, is also a recommended tourist destination.
It has been selected as one of the national "Nature 100 Selections". The altitude is about 1000m, so you can easily enjoy trekking!
One of the highlights is the spring water near the 8th station, the famous water "Ginrei Water".

Next, we will introduce the hot spring facilities in Ozora Town.
If you want to enjoy hot springs in Ozora Town, we recommend the town-run public bath facility "Memanbetsu Agricultural Structure Improvement Center Himawari Onsen"!
You can easily enjoy the hot springs flowing directly from the source with a day trip bath.
The hot water is abundant and the spring quality is sodium bicarbonate chloride spring, which has effects such as neuralgia, sensitivity to cold, and recovery from fatigue.

We deliver essential gourmet information for your trip to Ozora Town!
Ozora Town's proud local gourmet "Ozora pork shabu long modon" is a must-eat! At Nagashimaya, you can enjoy a bowl with an original kimchi-flavored sauce based on the return of soba sauce.

Ozora Town's two major summer events ♬♬ are "Memanbetsu Sightseeing Summer Festival" and "Nonkeyland Furusato Festival"
This year, the Tourism Summer Festival was held from July 29 Sat to 30 Sun, 2023.
The summer festival, which was held for the first time in four years, was a great success with fireworks on the water!
The Hometown Festival was also held for the first time in four years. The race to roll large grass rolls and compete was a great success.

In Hokkaido Ozora Town, there is still plenty of recommended information such as beautiful nature, sightseeing spots, and fresh seafood gourmet.
We will continue to introduce the charm of Hokkaido Ozora Town, so thank you!
  • Ozora
  • Hokkaido Prefecture
  • Roadside Station Nonkeyland Higashimokoto
  • Fairy Tale Hill
  • Local gourmet
  • Nature
  • Great view
  • Sightseeing
  • Travel
  • Tourism Association
  • ...and 1 others
Tokachigawa Onsen Tourist Association
Sep. 15, 2023
The sunflowers at Mito Farm in Otofuke are in full bloom! This is a sunflower field sown as a green manure on the field after the wheat harvest. The sunflowers stretching across the vast grounds are a spectacular sight! You can see them here until the end of September. For location details, please check the notices on the TokachigawaOnsen Tourism Association website. *Please do not enter the field to prevent the introduction of pathogens!*
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  • Hokkaido Prefecture
  • Otofuke
  • Sunflowers
  • Great view
  • Sightseeing
  • Travel
  • Nature
  • Photogenic
  • Instagrammable
  • Flower garden
  • ...and 7 others
GINOZA VILLAGE TOURISM ASSOCIATION
Sep. 15, 2023
Nice to meet you! This is the Ginoza Village Tourism Association. Ginoza Village is located in the center of Okinawa and is an attractive city with abundant water sources, beautiful nature, and historical traditions. From Naha Airport, it takes about 1 hour by car and access is convenient! You can take a bus to Ginoza Village along the beautiful coastline. In order to let you know Ginoza Village, which is full of charm, in this post, we will introduce sightseeing spots and local gourmet foods of Ginoza Village! The highly transparent sea of Ginoza Village is one of the attractions not to be missed! Kanna Beach, which is characterized by an arch-shaped beach with a sand of about 500 meters, has gentle waves and is perfect for swimming. You can also experience marine activities such as jet skis, banana boats and sea kayaking. Kanna Dam, which was completed in 1993 Heisei 5, is a spot that has been certified as one of the "100 best dam lakes". Kanna Dam is designed to preserve the ecosystem, and is home to gobies, black crabs, dragonflies, killifish, horsetails, and kingfishers. In addition, in the downstream area, the leech forest mangrove that was lost due to seawall construction has been restored. "Roadside station "Ginoza" is a spot that you should definitely stop by when sightseeing in Ginoza Village! In addition to local specialties and souvenirs, it is a full range of facilities such as coin showers, free space, tourist information center, observation terrace, and barbecue on the seawall terrace. In 2000, Ginoza Village began training agricultural workers at the Agricultural Successor Training Center. As a result, "strawberry farms" in Ginoza Village have flourished, and "strawberry picking" where you can pick fresh strawberries is gaining popularity. The local gourmet in Ginoza Village is popular for "jagamen" that can only be eaten at the roadside station "Ginoza"! The potatoes are kneaded and the chewy texture is addictive. Please enjoy it at "Cafeteria Manjiro" in the roadside station "Ginoza". You can also buy raw noodles at Mirai Ginoza. In Ginoza Village, traditional culture and events are cherished. Traditional knife making, called "island knife," is a fusion of craftsmanship and beauty. Located in Ginoza Village, Kaniman Blacksmith Studio is the only blacksmith shop on the main island of Okinawa that manufactures island knives. It is also possible to make a custom-made blade that can be decided by consultation on the shape and material of the blade. When sightseeing in Ginoza Village, please feel the craftsmanship of the historic traditional craftsmanship. In Ginoza Village, there are hotels, pensions, and ryokans surrounded by a beautiful natural environment. Please relax in the location overlooking the sea and hot springs to heal the fatigue of sightseeing and spend a luxurious time. Ginoza Village is a place where various attractions such as natural beauty, warm people, and delicious food culture spread. Please experience the charm of Ginoza Village and enjoy a wonderful trip! We will continue to disseminate information about Ginoza Village, so we look forward to your continued support.
View More
  • Ginoza
  • Okinawa Prefecture
  • Roadside Station Ginoza
  • Kanna Dam
  • 100 best dammed lakes
  • Ginoza Village Baseball Ground
  • Island Knife (Shimahoucher)
  • Kanna Beach Beach
  • Strawberries
  • Coast/Beach/Sea
  • ...and 5 others
COOL JAPAN VIDEOS STAFF
Sep. 7, 2023
Introducing the post of the "Higashikawa Tourism Association" COOL JAPAN VIDEOS official social media account! Higashikawa, Hokkaido is a town located in the center of Hokkaido. Natural water from melting snow is used for rice, vegetables, restaurants, and other daily water in the town. The hot springs in Daisetsuzan National Park are also one of the attractions.
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ひがしかわ観光協会
Aug. 31, 2023
Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Video, nice to meet you!
We are the Higashikawa Tourism Association.
We will share attractive tourism information about Higashikawa-cho in Hokkaido, home to Daisetsuzan National Park, Japan’s largest national park, on Cool Japan Video, so please look forward to it!

Higashikawa-cho sits in central Hokkaido and overflows with natural blessings.
It enjoys excellent access, about a 10-minute drive from Asahikawa Airport to the town center.

Uniquely for Japan, Higashikawa-cho does not have a public water supply system.
Beautiful natural water formed by Daisetsuzan’s snowmelt seeping deep into the ground serves as the town’s domestic water and is used in many places, including restaurants.
Agriculture benefits from these abundant water resources, producing delicious rice and vegetables with exceptional flavor.

One of Higashikawa-cho’s charms is its proud hot springs.
Higashikawa-cho has two hot spring areas, Asahidake Onsen and Tenninkyo Onsen, both located within Daisetsuzan National Park.

Around Asahidake Onsen there is no typical hot-spring town; the landscape is carefully managed with height limits and spacing regulations.
Day-trip bathing is available, so please stop by during mountain climbs or hikes.
You can luxuriate in the hot spring while soaking in the natural scenery.

Tenninkyo Onsen is also popular for its reputed benefits for diabetes and arteriosclerosis.
Two hot-spring facilities operate there, and as of June 2023 both lodging and day-trip bathing are available.
Nearby you can enjoy Hagoromo Falls, selected as one of Japan’s top 100 waterfalls.

Beyond hot springs, Higashikawa-cho offers many attractive spots where you can feel nature’s breath.

- Asahidake Visitor Center
Opened in 2019, Asahidake Visitor Center provides information on the nature of Daisetsuzan National Park and guided tours.
You can view a diorama of the spectacular viewpoints for mountain climbing.
Seasonal exhibits, AR displays, and VR goggles allow a virtual experience of the Daisetsuzan mountains.

- Daisetsu Asahidake Gensui Park
This park is the source of Higashikawa-cho’s natural water, rich in calcium and minerals.
You can freely collect spring water that Daisetsuzan’s snowmelt naturally filtered over centuries.

- Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway
The roughly 10-minute aerial ride from the Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway Sanroku Station at 1,100 meters to Sugatami Station at 1,600 meters offers grand panoramic views and seasonal scenery.
From the ropeway, beginners can enjoy a trekking course of about one hour.
The hike to Asahidake’s summit takes about two hours from here, and the peak rewards you with a 360-degree panorama including the Tokachi Mountain Range, MtAshibetsu, and Mt. Shokanbetsu.

- Canmore Ski Village (Kitoushi Forest Park)
This ski area is inside Kitoushi Forest Park, a 15-minute drive from Asahikawa Airport.
With six courses, it caters to beginners through advanced skiers and is popular with many international visitors.
Kitoushi Forest Park also has a campsite and cottages, so overnight stays are possible.

- Lake Chubetsu
At the foot of Daisetsuzan National Park, Lake Chubetsu offers canoeing experiences.
You can enjoy seasonal vistas from fresh greenery to autumn colors and snow-capped scenes.
Local guides support participants, so even first-timers can join with confidence.

Higashikawa-cho’s population is about 8,400 people (as of June 2023).
Thanks to strong child-rearing support and convenient access from the airport, the town has seen an increase in residents in recent years.
Its rich natural environment makes it an ideal place for a stress-free life.
The Higashikawa Town Immigration Experience lets people live here for three months up to one year.

The town operates a municipal Japanese language school, and around 600 foreign residents live here, with strong support for international students.

Higashikawa-cho is a place full of nature’s gifts.
Aiming to be a photograph-friendly town with beautiful seasonal nature, it has declared itself the Photo Town, the photography culture capital.
Higashikawa-cho offers abundant natural environments, hot springs, delicious food, and the warmth of local people.
We will continue to bring you plenty of charming information about Higashikawa-cho in Hokkaido, so thank you for your support.
  • Higashikawa
  • Hokkaido Prefecture
  • Daisetsuzan National Park
  • Hot springs
  • Nature
  • Great view
  • Sightseeing
  • Travel
  • Hokkaido area
  • Tourism Association
Tokachigawa Onsen Tourist Association
Sep. 6, 2023
What do you think this is, sitting at the entrance of the tourist information center? The answer is a sub-bituminous peat layer that forms the base of the moor hot spring. It was created by the accumulation of reeds and other plants that once grew along the Tokachigawa riverside in ancient times. Plant-based moor hot spring water wells up through this peat layer. The humic substances (humin) in the peat combined with alkalinity create a silky, mild water quality, which is why it’s called a beauty bath. Moor hot springs are also registered as a Hokkaido Heritage; please come and experience them 🥰
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  • Hokkaido Prefecture
  • Tokachigawa Hot Spring
  • Otofuke
  • Tourism Association
  • Hot springs
  • Hokkaido Heritage
  • Plants
  • Hokkaido area
  • Japan
Okhotsk Ozora Town Tourism Association
Sep. 5, 2023
Nice to meet everyone who watched the COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! This is the Okhotsk Ozora Town Tourism Association that disseminates attractive information about Hokkaido Ozora Town. Ozora Town is a town located in the east of Hokkaido and was formed in 2006 by the merger of Memanbetsu Town and Higashi Mokoto Village. In this first post, we will introduce the highlights of the Ozora Town. Enjoy! We will introduce how to access Hokkaido Ozora Town. 【Access by plane】 ◯ Tokyo Haneda Airport 〜 Memanbetsu Airport ... Approx. 1 hour 50 minutes ◯ Sapporo New Chitose Airport 〜 Memanbetsu Airport ... Approx. 50 minutes ◯ Osaka・Kansai International Airport 〜 Memanbetsu Airport ... Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes 【Access by train】 ◯ JR Sapporo Station 〜 JR Memanbetsu Station ... About 5 hours 30 minutes by "Limited Express Okhotsk" / JR Asahikawa Station ~ JR Memanbetsu Station...About 3 hours 30 minutes by "Limited Express Oyuki" ◯ Sapporo 〜 Memanbetsu ... Approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes by intercity bus "Dreamint Okhotsk" reservation required Hokkaido Ozora Town has a climate with a large temperature difference, so it is recommended to check the weather forecast when planning a trip. Since there is little precipitation throughout the year, there are many sunny days, making it perfect for sightseeing! In summer, the average temperature is around 20°C, making it a comfortable climate. Snowfall in winter is from late October to late April. The minimum temperature can be -27°C, and the cold is severe in the region. A Ozora Town where you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons! From here, we will introduce the sightseeing spots. With the arrival of warm spring, the Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park Higashimokoto moss phlox Park, where the beautiful pink carpet of the moss phlox spreads, is a popular moss phlox spot. The park has an observatory, a pink torii gate, and a sightseeing wheel. The picturesque scenery in the vast park is a must-see! Flowering time around May ~ early June In summer, the vast sunflower field is in full bloom, and yellow flowers spread out like the sun. "Tomap River Park" is the earliest sunflower field in the Ozora Town. It is located about 10 minutes by car from Memanbetsu Airport and has good access. Flowering time: mid ~ late July Asahigaoka Park, which is famous for enjoying sunflowers for a long time, is a popular spot for the superb view from the observatory. From the observatory, you can overlook Lake Abashiri, Mt. Shari, and the Shiretoko mountain range. Flowering time: late July ~ mid-September The sunflower field next to Memanbetsu Airport is a hot place in social media where you can take pictures of airplanes and sunflowers! You can enjoy about 400,000 sunflowers. Flowering time: early ~ late August Since it is located next to Memanbetsu Airport, you can take pictures as if an airplane is taking off and landing in a sunflower field. "Roadside Station NonkyLand Higashimokoto" with a hotel is also a popular spot! At the shop, you can enjoy local flavors such as souvenirs, local specialties, "juicy meat buns" of Hokkaido beef and long potatoes. It is also possible to stay at "Hotel Higashimokoto" in the Roadside Station. You can choose from twin, DLX twin, and Japanese-style rooms. There are no hot springs in the hotel, but there is a hot spring facility "Fureai Center Phlox" about 2 minutes by car from the hotel or about 9 minutes on foot, equipped with a whirlpool bath and sauna. You can slowly heal the fatigue of traveling. Located about 10 minutes by car from Memanbetsu Airport, "Meruhen no Oka" is also a popular tourist destination that cannot be missed. It is a famous spot for its fairytale scenery lined with seven larches. The vast countryside spreads out and you can enjoy the picturesque scenery. One of the highlights is the nearby Roadside Station "Meruhen no Oka Memanbetsu"! There is a corner selling freshly caught locally and a local product corner, and you can enjoy gourmet food using local ingredients such as "Ozora pork shabu long modon" at the on-site restaurant. There is also a free "dog run" where dogs can easily play. Mt. Mokoto, where you can enjoy the rich nature, is also a recommended tourist destination. It has been selected as one of the national "Nature 100 Selections". The altitude is about 1000m, so you can easily enjoy trekking! One of the highlights is the spring water near the 8th station, the famous water "Ginrei Water". Next, we will introduce the hot spring facilities in Ozora Town. If you want to enjoy hot springs in Ozora Town, we recommend the town-run public bath facility "Memanbetsu Agricultural Structure Improvement Center Himawari Onsen"! You can easily enjoy the hot springs flowing directly from the source with a day trip bath. The hot water is abundant and the spring quality is sodium bicarbonate chloride spring, which has effects such as neuralgia, sensitivity to cold, and recovery from fatigue. We deliver essential gourmet information for your trip to Ozora Town! Ozora Town's proud local gourmet "Ozora pork shabu long modon" is a must-eat! At Nagashimaya, you can enjoy a bowl with an original kimchi-flavored sauce based on the return of soba sauce. Ozora Town's two major summer events ♬♬ are "Memanbetsu Sightseeing Summer Festival" and "Nonkeyland Furusato Festival" This year, the Tourism Summer Festival was held from July 29 Sat to 30 Sun, 2023. The summer festival, which was held for the first time in four years, was a great success with fireworks on the water! The Hometown Festival was also held for the first time in four years. The race to roll large grass rolls and compete was a great success. In Hokkaido Ozora Town, there is still plenty of recommended information such as beautiful nature, sightseeing spots, and fresh seafood gourmet. We will continue to introduce the charm of Hokkaido Ozora Town, so thank you!
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  • Ozora
  • Hokkaido Prefecture
  • Okhotsk
  • Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park
  • Fairy Tale Hill
  • Roadside Station Nonkeyland Higashimokoto
  • Mt. Mokoto
  • Asahigaoka Park (Ozora Town)
  • Tomap River Park
  • Sunflowers
  • ...and 9 others
Oketo, Hokkaido
Aug. 31, 2023
Hello everyone! This is the Industry Promotion Division of Oketo Town Hall. We will share the charms of Oketo Town, Hokkaido, with viewers of the Cool Japan video series, so thank you for joining us! For this first post, we’d like to introduce what kind of town Oketo is and highlight its attractions. Oketo Town in Tokoro District, Hokkaido, is a peaceful town surrounded by beautiful nature in eastern Hokkaido, with a population of 2,669 as of January 31, 2023. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to meet warm-hearted locals and feel the town’s community spirit. Oketo’s climate features large temperature differences between day and night and relatively little snowfall and rainfall. Access to Oketo is easiest by combining plane and car. From Memanbetsu Airport (Oozora-cho), it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car, making for a pleasant drive through nature. By bus, take Hokkaido Kitami Bus (Memanbetsu Airport line) from Memanbetsu Airport (Oozora-cho) to Kitami Bus Terminal (Kitami City), then transfer to the Rikubetsu line at Kitami Bus Terminal to reach Oketo; the total trip takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Next, here are some of Oketo’s sights and things to enjoy that show different faces through the seasons. ● Lake Oketo and Kanoko Dam Lake Oketo is an artificial lake created by the Kanoko Dam. The lake’s shoreline stretches 13.4 km and is home to many wild birds and native plants, making it a notable scenic spot. You can also enjoy fishing at Lake Oketo. In summer you can catch yamabe (landlocked salmon) and amemasu (rainbow trout), and from late December to mid-February you can try wakasagi (pond smelt) fishing. Since no rental fishing gear is available, please bring your own rods and tents. ● Rainbow Falls Downstream from Kanoko Dam, the Kanokozawa area unfolds with magnificent natural beauty. One highlight is Rainbow Falls, which plunges 13 meters and looks like a painting. Trees and flowers surround the falls, making it a popular spot for photographers. In winter, Rainbow Falls is lit up and icefall tours are held. ● Okecraft Center "Shinrin Kogeikan" Okecraft is Oketo’s local craft brand. The craft movement began in 1983 by combining the local bent-wood bucket tradition called oke with Oketo’s name and the idea of craft. Twenty-four individual workshops in Oketo produce everyday tableware and other items. Okecraft products are also available for purchase on the website. At the Shinrin Kogeikan, you can see and buy Okecraft pieces and other locally made products such as plant-dyed textiles, and you can observe the production process and tour the facility. Okecraft is also a popular gift choice for Oketo’s hometown tax donation program. Wooden items made from Ezo spruce, like paired bowls and smoothly finished cutlery, showcase a warm wooden texture. Please check the various hometown tax websites for details. ● Oketo Katsuyama Onsen Yuuyu Oketo Katsuyama Onsen Yuuyu is a facility offering lodging, hot springs, dining, and sightseeing all in one. There are four cottages available, and a free BBQ area adds a camping feel. Inside the facility you’ll find a restaurant and a café corner; weekday lunch specials are recommended. For day-trip visitors, the facility offers hot spring water flowing directly from the Katsuyama Onsen source. Enjoy the large communal bath, reclining baths, an open-air bath, a pottery bath, and a dry-style sauna. The area around the facility is also rich in attractions, including Lake Oketo. ● Minamigaoka Ski Area In winter, the ski area is another enjoyable option. Minamigaoka Ski Area offers affordable lift tickets: 1,040 yen for adults and 520 yen for children (junior high school age and under) for a day pass. With runs ranging from beginner to advanced, skiers of all levels can have a great time. Come experience Oketo Town’s natural charms and local hospitality for yourself. We will continue to share information about Oketo Town on this account. Thank you and we look forward to your interest!
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  • Oketo
  • Hokkaido Prefecture
  • Oketo Lake
  • Dam
  • Kanoko Dam
  • Rainbow Falls (Okioto Town, Hokkaido)
  • Oke Craft Center "Forest Craft Center
  • Oketo Katsuyama Onsen Yuyu
  • Minamigaoka Ski Area
  • Hometown tax
  • ...and 6 others
Kitami Tourism Association
Aug. 31, 2023
Nice to meet you, Kitami City Tourism Association! Kitami City, an attractive tourist destination in the eastern part of Hokkaido, was created 2006 Heisei 18 the merger of Kitami City, Hatano Town, Tokoro Town, and Rubeshibe Town. In the future, this account will introduce plenty of charms of Kitami City! Thank you in advance. Kitami is the largest city in the Okhotsk region. It is home to about 120,000 people. The climate and weather in Kitami City are mild with little influence from typhoons and the rainy season. In addition, the average temperature is basically low throughout the year, and in winter the minimum temperature can be minus 30 degrees Celsius, but in summer it can be more than 30 degrees Celsius due to the fane phenomenon. For access to Kitami City, Hokkaido, we recommend using Memanbetsu Airport. It takes about 45 minutes from New Chitose Airport to Memanbetsu Airport. It takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes from Haneda Airport to Memanbetsu Airport, and about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Kansai International Airport to Memanbetsu Airport. In addition, you can get to Kitami City from Memanbetsu Airport in about 40 minutes by car or bus. Kitami City is full of sightseeing spots full of attractions. Next, we will introduce carefully selected sights from among them. Kitami City has the world's longest history of mint production from the Taisho era to the early Showa era. The "Kitami Mint Memorial Museum" is a museum that tells the history of the museum. Videos of Kitami Thin-Loaded and a diorama of the Kitami Thin-Cargo Factory, the only mint refining factory built in Hokkaido, are on display. In addition, at the adjacent "Thin Cargo Distillery Hall", mint distillation demonstrations are held, and you can actually experience the scent of mint. There is also a herb garden around the memorial hall, where you can enjoy about 70 kinds of seasonal scents. The Pearson Memorial Hall, which was selected as a Hokkaido Heritage Site in 2001, was the last base of activities of Mr. and Mrs. Pearson, American missionaries who worked for the development of Hokkaido during the Taisho era. The memorial, where the Pearsons lived for 15 years, is now open to the public as a place to preserve the records of their pioneering. Through the historical buildings and exhibits, please enjoy the culture and history of Kitami City! An indispensable spot when traveling is a roadside station. At Roadside Station Onneyu Onsen, you can enjoy meals made with local ingredients while soaking in the hot springs to heal the fatigue of your trip. When you arrive at the roadside station Onneyu Onsen, the first thing you see is the Karakuri Pigeon Clock Tower "Kamu Forest", a symbol tower with a height of about 20 meters. It runs from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the hour and plays fairytale music. You can also enter the tower! The facility is full of attractions, such as the "Kamurin Shop" that sells and exhibits local specialties, and the "Craft Experience Workshop" woodworking experience room. In addition, the "Northern Land Aquarium Mountain Aquarium," which opened in July 2012 Heisei 24, is an attractive aquarium that incorporates innovative exhibition methods, such as the "Waterfall Basin Tank" that looks up at the waterfall basin from below and the "Four Seasons Tank" that reproduces a river that freezes in the cold. Nikoro Hakka Park, located along Route 7, is a vast park with an area of about 40,000 m². From late July to late August, the cold-resistant perennial herb "Ezo Misohagi" blooms all over the place. One of the highlights is the private residence of Yaichi Igarashi, who was a merchant in the early Showa period, "Hakka Goten" in the park! The historic mansion built by one master at that time over a period of three years is a must-see. The precious natural park "Tokoro Ruins Forest" where the ruins of the Jomon period remain is also a spot where you can feel the history of Kitami City! It is maintained and managed in cooperation with the Graduate School of Humanities and Sociology of the University of Tokyo and Tokoro Town. In the "Tokoro Center for Buried Cultural Properties" section of the park, models of the houses and lifestyles at that time are exhibited. Outside, the pit dwelling building has also been restored. "North Fox Farm" where you can interact with adorable red foxes is also a popular tourist attraction! It is the only zoo in Japan where red foxes and Ezo raccoon dogs coexist in free-range areas. Please spend a heartwarming time interacting with foxes nurtured in a natural environment. If you want to heal the fatigue of your trip, we recommend the Onneyu Onsen area, a hot spring village that spreads around the roadside station Onneyu Onsen! In addition to accommodation facilities such as hotels and inns, there are also facilities where you can enjoy day trip bathing. There are three hot springs in the hot spring village: Onneyu Onsen, a simple sulfur hot spring hypotonic alkaline high hot spring, Takinoyu Onsen, an alkaline simple hot spring hypotonic alkaline high hot spring, and Ponyu Onsen, an alkaline simple hot spring relaxed hypotonic hot spring. Please enjoy the hot spring that flows directly from the source that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Next, we will introduce the gourmet food unique to Kitami City, which is characterized by the deliciousness of the rich earth and fresh ingredients! Kitami yakiniku Kitami yakiniku grilled meat, which is grilled over a charcoal grill and eaten with raw sauce, is a Kitami gourmet that cannot be missed. Kitami is also known for having the largest number of yakiniku restaurants in Hokkaido. "Okhotsk Kitami Shioyaki Soba" is a gem filled with the umami flavor of Kitami onions and scallops caught in Okhotsk. Okhotsk Beer, which is made with 100% malt from Okhotsk, continues to be loved by locals. Please enjoy our special local beer handmade by our own manufacturing method! Also, you can't miss the sweets in Kitami City. Kitami City is full of long-established Japanese confectionery shops! There are also sweets using mint and are perfect as souvenirs. Kitami City is a wonderful city with abundant nature, historical sights, delicious gastronomy, and much more. Please enjoy the charm of Kitami City and experience a wonderful trip that will be memorable. In COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, we will deliver the charm of Kitami City to the fullest, so please look forward to it!
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  • Kitami
  • Hokkaido Prefecture
  • Kitami Hakka Memorial Museum
  • Mentha japonica
  • Roadside Station Onneyu Onsen
  • Aquarium of the Northern Land (Mountain Aquarium)
  • Nikoro Hakka Park
  • Tokoro Ruins Forest
  • Northern Fox Farm
  • Onneyu Hot Spring
  • ...and 10 others
ひがしかわ観光協会
Aug. 31, 2023
Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Video, nice to meet you! We are the Higashikawa Tourism Association. We will share attractive tourism information about Higashikawa-cho in Hokkaido, home to Daisetsuzan National Park, Japan’s largest national park, on Cool Japan Video, so please look forward to it! Higashikawa-cho sits in central Hokkaido and overflows with natural blessings. It enjoys excellent access, about a 10-minute drive from Asahikawa Airport to the town center. Uniquely for Japan, Higashikawa-cho does not have a public water supply system. Beautiful natural water formed by Daisetsuzan’s snowmelt seeping deep into the ground serves as the town’s domestic water and is used in many places, including restaurants. Agriculture benefits from these abundant water resources, producing delicious rice and vegetables with exceptional flavor. One of Higashikawa-cho’s charms is its proud hot springs. Higashikawa-cho has two hot spring areas, Asahidake Onsen and Tenninkyo Onsen, both located within Daisetsuzan National Park. Around Asahidake Onsen there is no typical hot-spring town; the landscape is carefully managed with height limits and spacing regulations. Day-trip bathing is available, so please stop by during mountain climbs or hikes. You can luxuriate in the hot spring while soaking in the natural scenery. Tenninkyo Onsen is also popular for its reputed benefits for diabetes and arteriosclerosis. Two hot-spring facilities operate there, and as of June 2023 both lodging and day-trip bathing are available. Nearby you can enjoy Hagoromo Falls, selected as one of Japan’s top 100 waterfalls. Beyond hot springs, Higashikawa-cho offers many attractive spots where you can feel nature’s breath. - Asahidake Visitor Center Opened in 2019, Asahidake Visitor Center provides information on the nature of Daisetsuzan National Park and guided tours. You can view a diorama of the spectacular viewpoints for mountain climbing. Seasonal exhibits, AR displays, and VR goggles allow a virtual experience of the Daisetsuzan mountains. - Daisetsu Asahidake Gensui Park This park is the source of Higashikawa-cho’s natural water, rich in calcium and minerals. You can freely collect spring water that Daisetsuzan’s snowmelt naturally filtered over centuries. - Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway The roughly 10-minute aerial ride from the Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway Sanroku Station at 1,100 meters to Sugatami Station at 1,600 meters offers grand panoramic views and seasonal scenery. From the ropeway, beginners can enjoy a trekking course of about one hour. The hike to Asahidake’s summit takes about two hours from here, and the peak rewards you with a 360-degree panorama including the Tokachi Mountain Range, MtAshibetsu, and Mt. Shokanbetsu. - Canmore Ski Village (Kitoushi Forest Park) This ski area is inside Kitoushi Forest Park, a 15-minute drive from Asahikawa Airport. With six courses, it caters to beginners through advanced skiers and is popular with many international visitors. Kitoushi Forest Park also has a campsite and cottages, so overnight stays are possible. - Lake Chubetsu At the foot of Daisetsuzan National Park, Lake Chubetsu offers canoeing experiences. You can enjoy seasonal vistas from fresh greenery to autumn colors and snow-capped scenes. Local guides support participants, so even first-timers can join with confidence. Higashikawa-cho’s population is about 8,400 people (as of June 2023). Thanks to strong child-rearing support and convenient access from the airport, the town has seen an increase in residents in recent years. Its rich natural environment makes it an ideal place for a stress-free life. The Higashikawa Town Immigration Experience lets people live here for three months up to one year. The town operates a municipal Japanese language school, and around 600 foreign residents live here, with strong support for international students. Higashikawa-cho is a place full of nature’s gifts. Aiming to be a photograph-friendly town with beautiful seasonal nature, it has declared itself the Photo Town, the photography culture capital. Higashikawa-cho offers abundant natural environments, hot springs, delicious food, and the warmth of local people. We will continue to bring you plenty of charming information about Higashikawa-cho in Hokkaido, so thank you for your support.
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  • Higashikawa
  • Daisetsuzan National Park
  • Hot springs
  • Asahidake Onsen
  • Tenninkyo Onsen
  • Asahidake
  • Asahidake Visitor Center
  • Daisetsuzan Asahidake Gensui Park
  • Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway
  • Canmore Ski Village
  • ...and 8 others
Niseko Resort Tourist Association
Aug. 31, 2023
Nice to meet you! This is the Niseko Resort Tourism Association. It is also a resort area where you can enjoy the beautiful nature of the four seasons and various activities "Hokkaido Niseko Town Niseko Cho"! This time, we will deliver attractive information focusing on how to enjoy Niseko in summer. Niseko Town is currently operating the "Sky Bus Niseko" to visit the famous places of Niseko Town for a limited time! Skybus Niseko is a double-decker tourist bus that has no roof and is open. Recommended information for those who are considering a trip to Niseko in the summer! ●Operation period: July 15 Sat ~ September 3 Sun, 2023 ●Route introduction Road Station Niseko View Plaza⇒ Niseko Station⇒ Milk Kobo Niseko Takahashi Ranch⇒Hilton Niseko Village⇒ Kabayama Kita Lupicia⇒Hirafu Cross Street⇒Hirafu Welcome Center⇒ Yamada Intersection⇒Niseko Hanazono Resort ⇒ Kutchan Station Skybus Niseko "Niseko Panorama-go" runs between "Roadside Station Niseko View Plaza" ~ "Kutchan Ekimae". Also, one of the attractions is that you can get on and off from any stop! During the operation, an automatic voice guide and attendant will guide you through the charm of each spot. There is no doubt that you can enjoy a relaxing time while overlooking the beautiful nature, local food, and scenery that changes depending on the season! Multi-use tickets are a set of 3 Adults 1500 yen junior high school students and older, children 750 yen elementary school students. Preschoolers are free of charge only on the lap, but if they occupy a seat, they will be charged a child fee. In addition, "electronic tickets" that can be purchased on the website can be purchased at a 10% discount. It is recommended because you can easily get on the bus by touching it with your smartphone when riding. In addition, Kutchan and Niseko residents have an advance purchase discount, so please be sure to purchase at the paper ticket sales office. Not applicable to electronic tickets Paper tickets are sold at Roadside Station Niseko View Plaza and other designated tourist information centers. Only electronic tickets are available, and unlimited ride passes are also sold. [ONE DAY PASS 2,000 YEN, WEEKLY PASS - 5,500 YEN, SEASON FREE PASS - 39,000 YEN]. ◆Please check the official website for ticket details. Also, if it is in the gauge, only small dogs can ride together. Here are some of the sights on the Skybus Niseko route! ◎Niseko Takahashi Farm Milk Workshop It is a ranch where you can enjoy the superb view of Mt. Yotei, one of the 100 famous mountains in Japan. At Milk Kobo, you can enjoy sweets with a gentle taste such as soft-serve ice cream, gelato, special cream puffs, and roll cakes made with fresh milk! In addition, there are restaurants, cheese factories, yogurt workshops, cacao crowns cacao workshops, etc. around the milk workshop. ◎Niseko Hanazono Resort It is a tourist destination with activities and accommodations depending on the season. In addition to marine activities such as kayaking, fishing rental, and rafting, you can also enjoy horseback riding and cycling. At the mega zipline of "Hanazono ZIPFLIGHT", you can experience one of the largest zip tours in Asia! Experience an active time while enjoying a sense of unity with nature. The climate of Niseko is inland, so the summer is characterized by low humidity and easy to spend. When using "Skybus Niseko", it may be a good idea to have one to wear. Niseko is a town where you can enjoy the blessings of nature and refresh your mind and body. We will continue to post the charm of Niseko, so thank you for your continued support!
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  • Niseko
  • Hokkaido Prefecture
  • Sky Bus Niseko
  • HANAZONO NISEKO JAPAN
  • Niseko Takahashi Ranch
  • HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT
  • Road Station Niseko View Plaza
  • zip line
  • Summer
  • Nature
  • ...and 6 others
Taiki Tourism Association
Aug. 27, 2023
Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan! We are the Taiki Tourism Association. On this account, we will share appealing information to make you want to visit Taiki Town in Hokkaido. We look forward to connecting with you! In this first post, we introduce Taiki Town and share tourist information. Taiki Town, Hokkaido, lies in eastern Hokkaido in the southern Tokachi region. It is a town of 5,437 residents (as of January 2023), where the breath of nature meets historical charm. The name "Taiki" comes from the Ainu word "Taikiushi," meaning a place where large trees grow in clusters. Taiki Town is dotted with beautiful natural scenery and historic sites. Next, we introduce some of Taiki’s attractive sightseeing spots. ● Space Exchange Center SORA Since around 1985, Taiki has pursued "space town development" and hosted aerospace-related experiments. Space Exchange Center SORA displays materials and models from experiments conducted in Taiki by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and rocket developer Interstellar Technologies, among others. Admission is free and no reservation is required. ● Roadside Station Cosmos Mall Taiki Roadside Station Cosmos Mall Taiki is a place to feel the charm of Taiki, offering local specialties and souvenirs. At the specialty corner you can taste natural cheeses from Handa Farm and Cowbell Ice made with Taiki ingredients like corn and pumpkin. The facility also features a space-food and space-goods shop and a shopping center stocked with daily necessities. Nearby flows the Rekifune River, once chosen as Japan’s clearest stream. Next, here is some leisure information! ◎ Horokayanto Smelt Fishing Smelt fishing on Horokayanto opens around the end of December and runs through late February, offering a winter fishing experience. Bansei Onsen sits close to Horokayanto, making it ideal for warming up after a chilly day of smelt fishing. ◎ Kamui Kotan Park Campground Kamui Kotan Park Campground, on the scenic Kamui Kotan in Tokachi, is a recommended spot for outdoor lovers. This auto campground is surrounded by rich nature. Visitors can enjoy river play, fishing, forest walks, and even gold panning. (If you wish to try gold panning, please register with the tourism association in advance.) Taiki’s events are not to be missed. ◎ Rekibune River Clear Stream Carp Streamer This mini event takes place on May 5, Children’s Day. Each year from late April to early May, carp streamers spread across the river’s width, fluttering in the breeze as a springtime tradition. ◎ Rekifune River Festival The Rekifune River also hosts the Rekifune River Festival and the Perupune Fire Festival in August. The Rekifune River Festival began in 1989 as Taiki’s major summer event after the river was recognized by the Environment Agency as Japan’s cleanest river. The festival culminates with the Perupune Fire Festival and a fireworks display. Towering flaming torch pillars reaching toward the sky are a sight to behold. It’s a luxurious way to enjoy a summer night. Next, here is Taiki’s gourmet information! Taiki’s cuisine offers a rich variety, from local specialties like Camembert cheese, autumn salmon, and whey-fed pork to fresh seafood dishes and vegetable dishes that celebrate the bounty of the land. A popular local dish is the Taiki Cheese Salmon Bowl, made with cheese and autumn salmon. Savor dishes that make generous use of local ingredients and enjoy the unique flavors of Taiki, Hokkaido. Taiki’s hometown tax program offers fresh seafood and carefully prepared processed goods as gifts. Popular returns include "Rich Fresh Milk Cowbell Ice Cream," "Handa Farm Homemade Cheese Set," and a whey-fed pork bowl set. Enjoy Taiki’s distinctive tastes through the hometown tax program. For access to Taiki from outside Hokkaido, use Tokachi Obihiro Airport. By car, Taiki is about 40 minutes from Tokachi Obihiro Airport; by bus it is about 70 minutes. From Sapporo, the fastest train route takes about 2.5 hours from Sapporo Station to Obihiro Station, and buses take about 3.5 hours. From Obihiro Station, buses reach Taiki in about 1 hour 40 minutes. Although Taiki faces the sea, the area experiences large temperature variations. Summer’s average temperature is around 20°C, with highs up to about 34°C, while winter temperatures can drop to minus 20°C. Because winter temperatures can change rapidly in a short time, please take care with your clothing when traveling. Please come and experience the charms of Taiki Town in Hokkaido for yourself. We will continue sharing Taiki’s attractions, so thank you for your support!
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  • Taikicho, Hokkaido Prefecture
  • Hokkaido Prefecture
  • Space Exchange Center SORA
  • Roadside Station "Cosmor Taiki"
  • Rekifune River
  • Festival
  • Holocaust
  • Kamuikotan Park Campground
  • whey pig
  • Camembert cheese
  • ...and 10 others
tsubetsutourismassociation
Aug. 25, 2023
Nice to meet you! Tsubetsu Tourism Association is pleased to introduce itself. Tsubetsu Town in Abashiri District, Hokkaido, with a population of about 4,100 people (as of 2023), lies in eastern Hokkaido and is a nature-rich town where about 80% of the town’s area is covered by forest. In this first post for the Cool Japan video series, we present the charms of Tsubetsu Town, blessed with vast natural landscapes! Tsubetsu’s climate features hot summers and very cold winters influenced by drifting sea ice. The town sees low precipitation and ranks among the nation’s leaders in clear days and sunshine hours. Here is how to access Tsubetsu Town. By plane, it takes about 1 hour 50 minutes from Haneda Kuukou to Memanbetsu Airport. From New Chitose Airport, the flight to Memanbetsu Airport takes about 45 minutes. If you use the JR limited express, travel from JR Hokkaido Sapporo Station to Kitami Station takes about 4 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours. By bus, the Highway Bus Dreaming Okhotsk runs from Sapporo Station to Kitami Station in about 5 hours. By car, it takes about 5 hours from Sapporo Station to Tsubetsu Town. Surrounded by abundant forest, Tsubetsu Town is certified as a Forest Therapy BaseⓇ in recognition of the scientifically proven healing effects of forests! The Tsubetsu Townspeople's Forest Natural Park, affectionately known by residents as Nonno-no-mori, allows forest walks year-round. Adjacent to Nonno-no-mori, the Nonno-no-Mori Nature Center offers various guided tours where visitors can easily experience Forest TherapyⓇ and other activities. (Reservations required) Tsubetsu Town has many popular tourist spots; here are some especially recommended highlights! Lake Kussharo, a caldera lake formed when a volcano erupted and created a large depression that later filled with rainwater, is a must-see. On the outer rim of the Kussharo caldera sits Tsubetsu Pass; the Tsubetsu Pass Observatory, at 947 meters elevation, is the highest observation facility in the area and offers spectacular views not only of Lake Kussharo but also the Sea of Okhotsk, the Daisetsuzan Mountain Range, and sea-of-clouds scenery. The season to see the sea of clouds runs from June through autumn. Many photographers visit to capture the beautiful panorama of sunrise and the sea of clouds. Aioi Railway Park, created from the former site of Former Kitami Aioi Station, preserves rare historic rolling stock such as KiHa 22 and Suhafu 16, making it a delight for railway enthusiasts. The old station building houses Ekishacafe Horoka, where visitors can enjoy freshly roasted coffee and sweets made with local ingredients. Roadside Station Aioi Aioi Bussankan, set in the forest, is ideal for savoring local cuisine and finding lovely souvenirs. The adjoining Kumayaki House sells freshly baked local specialty Kumayaki and can draw queues on holidays. Inside the Roadside Station, the Product Promotion Center offers Tsubetsu specialties and handmade goods such as handcrafted tofu and 100% buckwheat soba. Cute Kumayaki merchandise is also available. Tsubetsu Town offers a variety of campgrounds where you can fully enjoy nature. 21st Century Forest Campground, close to the town center, features spacious grassy campsites. With many playgrounds for children, it’s popular with families. The Tsubetsu River runs through the area, offering fishing and water play. A one-night stay costs 500 yen per tent. Other fees may apply depending on conditions, so please check the official website before visiting. The season runs from May 1 to October 31 (may vary depending on weather and other conditions). Chimikeppu Lake Campsite is a free campground on the shores of Lake Chimikeppu, surrounded by primeval forest. On the north side of Lake Chimikeppu is a Wild Bird Park, where birdwatching is possible. In the surrounding area you’ll also find a Bird Observation Center, an arboretum, hotels, and walking trails. The season runs from mid-May to the end of October (may vary depending on weather and other conditions. Note that auto camping is not permitted). Next, we introduce Tsubetsu Town’s proud local foods! Tsubetsu focuses on specially cultivated and organic onions. When cooked, these onions become sweeter and are less likely to fall apart, which characterizes Tsubetsu-grown onions. Tsubetsu Wagyu is a celebrated local beef brand. Raised on rice straw and barley straw, Tsubetsu Wagyu has well-balanced marbling and a juicy flavor; recommended preparations include yakiniku and sukiyaki. Onions and Tsubetsu Wagyu are also available through Tsubetsu Town’s hometown tax donation program. Tsubetsu Town offers many comfortable hotels where you can relax amid beautiful nature. With lakes, forests, and mountains, Tsubetsu Town lets you enjoy the blessings of Hokkaido’s nature. Come and experience the unique charms of Tsubetsu Town and create unforgettable travel memories. We will continue to bring you more information about Tsubetsu Town in the future. Thank you for your attention!
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  • Tsubetsu
  • Hokkaido Prefecture
  • forest therapy
  • Lake Kussharo
  • caldera lake
  • Tsubetsu Pass
  • Roadside Station Aioi
  • Aioi Railway Park
  • The Tsubetu Forest of the 21st Century
  • Camping/Glamping
  • ...and 10 others
Tokachigawa Onsen Tourist Association
Aug. 21, 2023
Otofuke Shrine I visited Otofuke Shrine on a sunny day! The enshrined deity at Otofuke Shrine is Amaterasu Omikami, the same deity worshiped at the Ise Grand Shrine. As a guiding and leading deity, Amaterasu is said to grant blessings for overcoming difficulties, pioneering progress, good fortune and prosperity, and success in new ventures! This spot is also known for possible encounters with Ezo squirrels, red foxes, and owls♪ Be sure to pay a visit and offer your prayers ✨
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