Photographed on June 16, 2014. This is a windmill in front of the Otorii Gate at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine.

The book "Illustrated Guide to the Kikuchi Clan: The Rise and Fall of a Noble Family Upholding Their Beliefs in War-Torn Kyushu" was published in January 2026. The Kikuchi Clan This clan was active from the Heian period to the late Muromachi period, primarily centered in present-day Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, in northern Kumamoto Prefecture. They left their mark in renowned texts such as the Mongol Invasion Picture Scrolls and the Taiheiki, becoming a major powerful clan in Kyushu that resonated even in the central regions. This book introduces the history of the Kikuchi family, which supported the Seisei Shogun Prince Kanenaga, showcasing their significant presence in medieval Kyushu in chronological order. With new insights from the latest research, it offers a fresh perspective on the Kikuchi family. This is a book that history enthusiasts and those wanting to learn about Kikuchi's history should definitely pick up. Would you like to experience the proud history and culture of Kikuchi? In addition to large bookstores nationwide, it is also available at the Kikuchi Tourism Association located in Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture. 【Book Information】 "Illustrated Guide to the Kikuchi Clan: The Rise and Fall of a Noble Family Upholding Their Beliefs in War-Torn Kyushu" Edited by: Toru Anan Price: 2,200 yen (including tax)

Taken on June 16, 2014. These are the remnants of cherry blossoms and hydrangeas at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine.

Photographed on June 16, 2014. This is the spinning wheel at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine. As the matchmaking wind chimes begin, this is the last chance to see the spinning wheel in front of the torii gate and next to the main hall.

This is the row of houses in Utsunoya, located in Shizuoka Prefecture. The houses are made of wooden planks and feature distinctive signs. It is a very tranquil place that evokes a sense of nostalgia. Be sure to stop by when you visit Shizuoka Prefecture.

Taken on June 16, 2026. This is the hydrangea along the approach to Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine.

Taken on June 22, 26. This is a very cute chalk art in front of Yaoko. It is the work of Fukumitsu Tomoko.🐧🎈🧁

Choose your room according to your travel style! At Kussharo Prince Hotel, you can enjoy views of Lake Kussharo from all rooms. ■ Lake View Twin Room A special room with a view unique to the top floor. ■ Superior Double Room Enjoy a relaxing time with a blow bath. ■ Twin Room A standard type recommended for couples or friends traveling together. ■ Corner Triple Room Accommodates up to three guests, perfect for group trips. ■ Heartful Room (Universal Room) A room designed for everyone to use comfortably. Beyond the window lies Japan's largest caldera lake, Lake Kussharo. Why not find your favorite room to match your travel purpose? Reservations can be made via the profile URL. 📍Kussharo Prince Hotel https://www.instagram.com/kussharo_ph/...

Fukoji Temple's Hydrangeas ❚ Blooming Status as of June 22, 2026 Fukoji Temple is located in Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. It is also famous as a sightseeing spot for hydrangeas. Currently, the hydrangeas are in full bloom. We will keep you updated on the blooming status. 【Location】Upper Ozuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture 【Access】About 10 minutes by car from JR Asaji Station 【Parking】Available (free) 【Restroom】Available ❚ Fukoji Temple The cliff-carved Buddha on the temple grounds stands about 11 meters tall, including its pedestal, making it one of the largest cliff-carved Buddhas in Japan. The central figure is Fudo Myoo (the Immovable Wisdom King). Fudo Myoo is typically depicted with an angry expression, but this cliff-carved Buddha has developed a round and gentle appearance over the years of exposure to the elements. Despite its large size, Fudo Myoo has a very approachable presence. Fukoji Temple is also known as "Hydrangea Temple" due to the numerous hydrangeas planted there. During the rainy season, visitors can enjoy the sight of many hydrangea flowers alongside the cliff-carved Buddha. The hydrangeas are cared for by the temple and the local community. ■■■ Access to the Center of Bungoono City ■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing recommended sightseeing spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Taken on June 19, 2026. This is a floral water offering from Hara Florist, a traditional Japanese practice.

Hi! My fans, long time no see! Do you have any recommendations for places to visit in Japan? Please share below.

Taken on June 20, 2026. I visited Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine. A wicker ring was set up.

Taken on June 15, 2026. This is a matcha latte from LEC COFFEE and Kawagoe matcha tiramisu with matcha ice cream. 🍵

Taken on June 15, 2026. This is a limited edition Kawagoe matcha tiramisu with matcha ice cream from LEC COFFEE.

Event Announcement 📣 On July 5th (Sunday), the 55th Tokachi River Rafting event will be held 😊 This is a river play event that takes about 2 hours to enjoy the great outdoors, suitable for everyone from children to the elderly. Currently, we are only recruiting participants for the "handmade raft"!❗ (Deadline is June 27th; rental rafts are no longer accepting applications as they have reached capacity.) Join your friends and embark on a grand adventure down the Tokachi River with your proudly crafted raft 🎵 On the day of the event, in addition to rafting, you can also enjoy a raft contest, food trucks, and outdoor hot springs to warm up your body. Why not experience a refreshing feeling that you can't usually enjoy with your proud raft? 🤗 🔶 Date: July 5, 2026 (Sunday) starting at 10:00 🔶 Venue: Upstream of Tokachi Ohashi to Downstream of Tokachi Chuo Ohashi 🔶 Participation Fee: Handmade raft ¥2,000 per person 【Captain's Meeting and Safety Training】 🔷 Reception: 18:30～ 🔷 Training: 19:00～ 🔷 Location: 2nd Floor AV Room, Tokachi Plaza 🟥 Contact Information Tokachi River Rafting Executive Committee Office TEL: 090-5950-5030 (Hatakeyama) http://www.tokachigawa-ikada.net//

The 55th Izu Shimoda Onsen Hydrangea Festival is currently being held!＼(^o^)／ The hydrangeas at Shimoda Park are in full bloom! Enjoy the colorful hydrangeas that resemble a kaleidoscope!♬ Thank you to all the visitors who came today despite the rain!✨ At the Shimoda Kaikoku Museum, located about a 10-minute walk from the venue, visitors are welcomed by floating hydrangeas at the entrance (≧▽≦) Though small, it offers a lingering feeling of being in Japan's best hydrangea garden, and we highly recommend it! Additionally, the Shimoda Kaikoku Museum is also hosting a "Hydrangea Festival Stamp Rally" starting from the museum! https://www.shimoda-museum.jp/new/2026/03/28/2980/... Enjoy it along with the hydrangeas of Shimoda!

26年6月15日撮影。 LEC COFFEEさんのキッシュプレートです。 新じゃがいも、新玉ねぎ、ほうれん草、ベーコンが入ったカレー風味のキッシュ、サラダ、自家製パン、とうもろこしの冷製スープです。

Beyond the window lies Lake Kussharo, Japan's largest caldera lake. All of our hotel rooms face Lake Kussharo. You can leisurely enjoy the lake's surface bathed in the morning glow, as well as the tranquil scenery at dusk, from your room. It's not just about staying; it's about spending special moments with Lake Kussharo. 📍Kussharo Prince Hotel https://www.instagram.com/kussharo_ph/...

【Hydrangeas are in full bloom!💫】 Yesterday (6/18), I took photos of hydrangeas that have reached their peak amidst the light rain📸 During these rainy days, people tend to feel down, but the hydrangeas were shining vibrantly✨ The photos are of hydrangeas around a campground just off Prefectural Route 8, which leads from Japan National Route 218 into the Kuwanochi District😌 Further ahead, the Kuwanochi District continues to be adorned with colorful hydrangeas along the road🤗💕 Like the hydrangeas, let’s stay strong and cheerful despite the prolonged rain💪🔥

Manda Pit is a place that exudes a strong presence amidst tranquility. The large steel frames and brick buildings convey memories of the former coal mine. Unlike bustling tourist spots, it offers landscapes that invite you to stroll leisurely and take photos. On sunny days as well as cloudy ones, you can enjoy the weighty expressions characteristic of industrial heritage. 【Visiting Information】9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and middle school students / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Photo Travel #Travel Photography #Industrial Heritage #Historical Landscapes #Japanese Scenery #Brick Architecture #MandaCoalMine #Arao City #Kumamoto Travel #Japan Travel #Visit Japan #World Heritage #Industrial Heritage #Travel Photography

Chahaku-chan came to visit. 🐈

Photographed on June 15, 2014. This is the flower water display at Hara Florist.

Photographed on June 18, 2014. These are the hydrangeas along the approach to Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine. These hydrangeas are blue.

The morning mist lingers over "Aragijima". I was able to see the fantastical "Aragijima" illuminated by the morning sun. Aridagawacho, Wakayama Prefecture 2026/6

This is the Taushubetsu River Bridge in Kamishihoro Town, Hokkaido. It has a unique presence reminiscent of an ancient ruin. In the past, it was accessible freely, but now the gates are closed. You need to either reserve a key from the roadside station or join a tour from places like the Higashitaisetsu Nature Guide Centre to visit. You can park your car before the forest road gate and walk or bike there, but it's a rough 4-kilometer gravel road. Also, it's out of mobile service range, so there’s no way to contact anyone in case of trouble. Additionally, this area is a habitat for brown bears, so all actions are at your own risk. Every year, the bridge sinks into the lake after autumn and freezes in mid-winter, leading to weathering and collapse in various places. Some parts also crumbled during the spring earthquake. It won't be long before it can no longer maintain its complete arch.

On Sunday, June 21, the 5th Urahoro Marathon 2026 will be held‼️ This year's theme is "message" 😊 Let's spend a warm time together, encouraging each other, sharing our thoughts, and spreading smiles! The Urahoro Marathon is open to everyone, from preschoolers to adults, allowing participants to enjoy the thrill of taking small steps and sharing a sense of accomplishment with friends. Cherish your curiosity to "want to run!" and challenge yourself at your own pace and goals. The sense of achievement after finishing is exceptional 🎵 Also, you don't have to run❗ Why not join us as a supporter on the day? Cheering for runners at the finish line is also a great way to participate. The venue will feature delicious gourmet food, as well as various booths for job experiences and sports activities to enjoy 🎶 You might encounter new discoveries and fun meetings 🤗 *Please note that pre-registration for this year's marathon events has ended. Thank you for your understanding. *For children aged 2 to 6 (under elementary school age) participating on the day, "Hajime no Ippo" does not require prior registration and can be entered on-site. Please gather at the venue when the announcement is made.

Taken on June 15, 26. This is the flower water offering at Naritasan Kawagoe Betsuin.🐥

【Event Announcement】 Enjoy the Summer Sea! Announcement of the "SUP Experience Event" at Amakusa Shimoda Onsen! Hello everyone! This summer, we invite you to a special event where you can truly experience the beautiful sea of Amakusa! The popular marine activity "SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding)" will be held at Amakusa Shimoda Onsen on Saturday, July 25th! Why not enjoy the stunning views of Amakusa from the best seats while gently swaying on the waves? Everyone from elementary school students and up is welcome. Join us with your family and friends to create wonderful summer memories! Additionally, after the experience, we have delicious barbecues and attractive accommodation plans available at "Yume Hotaru Camping"! It's a satisfying plan that allows you to fully enjoy Amakusa all day long. We look forward to your applications! 【Event Overview】 ・Date and Time: Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 10:00 AM ・Location: Odatokowan (Meet on site) ・Address: 426 Shimoda Minami, Amakusa City, 863-2802 ・SUP Experience Participation Fee: 3,300 yen per person (for elementary school students and up) 【Enjoyment Options】 ① Barbecue at Yume Hotaru Camping ・Participation Fee: Adults 5,500 yen / Children 3,300 yen ・Address: 1-2971 Shimoda Kita, Amakusa City, 863-2803 *If the number of participants does not reach the limit, we may have to cancel the event. ② Accommodation Plan at Yume Hotaru Camping ・Cabin (up to 4 people) rental: 4,400 yen per person 【Notes】 ・Please ensure you have your own accident insurance. ・If the weather is bad on the day of the event, the event and plans may be canceled. ・The content of this event may be published in images, videos, and texts on the official website and brochures. It may also be featured in magazines and websites due to media coverage. ・Please adhere to the notes and rules, and participate at your own risk. 【Application and Inquiries】 ・Application Method: Please fill out the necessary information on the application form to apply. ・Organizer: Amakusa West Coast Sunset Council ・Cooperation: Amakusa Takarajima Tourism Association Amakusa Branch, Shimoda Onsen Ryokan Association ・Contact: Shimoda Onsen Ryokan Association, Amakusa

Taken on June 15, 2014. This is the flower water at Naritasan Kawagoe Betsuin.🐥

Taken on June 15, 2014. This is the flower water offering at Naritasan Kawagoe Betsuin. The chick is adorable.