Photographed on June 15, 25. It was the Ennichi of Kawagoe Kumano Shrine's Zenarai Benten. In the Precincts, a song by the Renjaku Town Sparrow Association was performed.

The crystal-clear water flowing from the wasabi fields of Azumino Fed abundantly by groundwater from the Northern Alps, this water is pure and transparent. When you touch it, it feels cool and refreshing — very pleasant 😁

📍Katori Shrine and Mt. Ariake in Azumino Katori Shrine stands quietly amid the rice fields of Azumino, with the graceful ridgeline of the Northern Alps stretching behind it. The mountain, shaped like Mt. Fuji, is Mt. Ariake, also called Shinano Fuji. Today, temperatures in Azumino rose nearly to a scorching summer level as the area soaked up strong sunlight. 📍Katori Shrine and Mt. Ariake in Azumino Katori Shrine sits in the heart of the countryside, with the beautiful ridgeline of the Northern Alps unfolding behind it. The mountain with a Fuji-like silhouette is Mt. Ariake, known as "Shinano Fuji." Today in Azumino the temperature climbed close to a heatwave level, and the landscape was bathed in summer sunlight.

Naha Hurley prays for the safety of the sea and abundant fishing / It is a traditional Naha hurley held every year at the Naha Port New Port Pier in Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture. It is a traditional event of the sea in Okinawa that has continued since the Ryukyu Kingdom period about 600 years ago, and is Held in during Golden Week on May 3~5 to pray for safe navigation and good fishing. It features a dragon boat with a dragon motif, and it's amazing to see 32 rowers competing with each other! I went to see it again this year. The sound of the bell and the finger whistle were hot again this year ^^

Naha Hurley prays for the safety of the sea and abundant fishing / It is a traditional Naha hurley held every year at the Naha Port New Port Pier in Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture. It is a traditional event of the sea in Okinawa that has continued since the Ryukyu Kingdom period about 600 years ago, and is Held in during Golden Week on May 3~5 to pray for safe navigation and good fishing. It features a dragon boat with a dragon motif, and it's amazing to see 32 rowers competing with each other! I went to see it again this year. The sound of the bell and the finger whistle were hot again this year ^^

Naha Hurley prays for the safety of the sea and abundant fishing / It is a traditional Naha hurley held every year at the Naha Port New Port Pier in Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture. It is a traditional event of the sea in Okinawa that has continued since the Ryukyu Kingdom period about 600 years ago, and is Held in during Golden Week on May 3~5 to pray for safe navigation and good fishing. It features a dragon boat with a dragon motif, and it's amazing to see 32 rowers competing with each other! I went to see it again this year. The sound of the bell and the finger whistle were hot again this year ^^

Registered Tangible Cultural Property "Sakaebashi" 🌉 Completed in 1938 (Showa 13), it was designated a Registered Tangible Cultural Property on March 13 of this year. Every time you cross this historic bridge, you can sense the passage of the local community. 💭 Sakaebashi exists as a familiar part of the scenery that represents Sakuhomachi. Come and feel the town's history for yourself—be sure to visit at least once. 🫧🦋

At dusk, the scent of charcoal lured me to stop in my tracks. An act of travel, the blessings of the sea and the handiwork of people weave together an unforgettable taste.

Shiyama Shrine "Wish-Setting Festival: Passing Through the Chino-wa (Ring of Miscanthus)" Friday, June 13, 2025, from 10:00 AM [Ritual] From 10:00 AM on Friday, June 13, 2025 [Chino-wa Crossing] From Friday the 13th until 4:00 PM on Sunday the 15th At Shiyama Shrine on the 13th, the Wish-Setting Festival and the Great Purification of Midsummer will take place. Anyone may attend the shrine ritual on the day. If you visit Shiyama Shrine 20 to 10 minutes before the ritual begins, you can receive a katashiro (paper human) for the katashiro ceremony. In the katashiro ceremony, write your name and age on the paper doll (hitokata), breathe on it and stroke it, transfer and cleanse half of this year’s sins and impurities, and pray for good health and a safe summer for the rest of the year. For vehicle katashiro, write the owner’s name and the vehicle number, stroke the vehicle body or key to cleanse impurities and misfortune, and pray for safe driving. When you leave the katashiro at Shiyama Shrine, prayers for good health and traffic safety will be offered at the Wish-Setting Festival. From the 13th until 4:00 PM on the 15th, the Chino-wa Crossing will be held. Pass through the large ring made of kaya (miscanthus) leaves to cleanse the sins and impurities of the past six months, and pray for health and safety for the remaining six months—this traditional event is part of the midsummer Great Purification observed at many shrines across the country at the year’s midpoint. Shiyama Shrine 818 Oshima, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture 864-0057 Phone: 0968-62-1390 A 15-minute walk from Arao Station on the JR Kagoshima Main Line

【Sensoji Temple Sanja Festival】 I filmed the famous scene of the Sanja Festival, the moment when the large lanterns of Kaminarimon were folded and the Mikoshi passed under them. This landscape is filled with traditions that have been carefully preserved by the local people. Asakusa is usually a popular Sightseeing spot, but on this day, I was impressed by the Scene where many people gathered regardless of nationality and everyone was excited together. Through the festivals, the passion and energy of the local people were conveyed, and at the same time, I felt that the feeling of impression is common no matter where you live. I wanted to capture such a moment of enthusiasm in a photograph. Location: Kaminarimon, Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo

A mountain-opening Shinto ceremony to pray for safety took place at the summit of Mt. Tarumae on June 12th. A newly installed information board now includes an English description. Mt. Tarumae stands at 1,041 meters and is considered relatively easy to climb. Some hikers are seen wearing sandals, thin-soled sneakers, or short sleeves and shorts, but we recommend trekking shoes and a windbreaker. (The trails are slippery due to pumice ejected during past eruptions, and strong winds always blow at the summit.)

Shobara City in Hiroshima Prefecture consists of seven towns. This time, we will introduce 4 of the 7 towns! ✨ 【Shobara area】 ・ Full of smiles for family gatherings! Shobara City (Photos 1~4) It is a town bustling with Gourmet food, long-established stores, Direct sales, and Events. The only National Bihoku Hillside Park in the Chugoku region where you can enjoy colorful flowers throughout the four seasons, from tulips in Spring to winter blooming botan, is a park in the Shobara area that can be enjoyed by families of three generations under the theme of "hometown and play". In addition, the cherry blossoms in Ueno Park were selected as a "100 best cherry blossom viewing spots" by the Japan Sakura Association. Use the Geibi Line or highway transit bus to arrive at Bingo Shobara Station. The scenery of the Four Seasons fascinates the Visitors. 【Soryo Town】 ・ Konjac and yokan! A traditional town that conveys the charm of rural woodlands (Photos 5~8) The flower "Setsubun grass" that heralds the arrival of Spring. More than 40 natural habitats (more than 20 colonies) have been confirmed in Soryo Town, which is One of the best in Japan. In the area surrounded by Clear water and abundant nature, where snowmelt streams stream in spring, Gastronomical delicacies unique to this area are popular, such as the long-established taste "Taga Yokan" that has been around since the Meiji era, and the "Soryo Konjac" which is a hand-cooked konjac made with raw potatoes. There are many activities to refine the charm of rural woodlands and enliven the central Mountainous Area, such as associations that take advantage of depopulation and initiatives for rural woodlands capitalism. 【Kuchiwa Town】 ・ Speaking of mouth, Mo Mo! A town where Wagyu beef culture flourished (Photos 9~12) Kuchiwa Town is located in the northern part of Hiroshima Prefecture, almost in the middle of the Chugoku Mountains. There are many Spot where you can feel the history, such as the famous peak "Mt. Hakkokumi" with a beautiful rice ball-shaped shape, and the mountain of faith "Mt. Bumine" that enshrines tengu, as well as many Clear streams such as rare fireflies, and in the summer, you will be soothed by the murmur of the river and fireflies. Specialties and specialties such as cheese and ice cream made from Hiba beef and raw milk served at the G7 Hiroshima Summit are also manufactured here! Also, from April ~ October, you can enjoy "Shobara rural woodlands Rafting" at Sweetfish no Sato Park, and after playing many, relax in the hot spring of Sweetfish no Sato Park Takase. 【Koya Town】 ・A town on a Highlands where apples grow! Heavy snowfall area with a panoramic view of the snowy landscape (Photos 13~16) Koya Town is located in the northernmost part of Hiroshima Prefecture. It is an area with a high Elevation, clean Water and air, and a large temperature difference blessed with mountain Nature. Apples are a specialty, and you can see apple orchards all over the town. Use campsites that make use of abundant nature, Hiroshima Prefecture natural monuments such as cherry blossoms and giant ginkgo trees, and many scenic spots and historical sites. Shobara City Tourist Information Site "Shobara Tourism Navi" HP is here ▽ https://www.shobara-info.com//

Otoyo's specialty! The harvest of Goishicha tea tea leaves has been carried out! Goishicha tea is a "post-fermented tea" 🍵 made in Otoyo, Kochi Prefecture It is made by a rare manufacturing method called "two-stage fermentation" in which tea leaves are steamed, fermented with lactic acid bacteria, and then further fermented. It is ✨ a fermented tea characterized by its unique sour flavor and health benefits that regulate the intestinal environment The completed Goishicha tea will be sold as a thank-you gift for Furusato Nozei tax payment or at Souvenirs shops in Kochi Prefecture!

[Shobara Tourism Promotion Organization (Shobara DMO) Announcement] Good morning 🌞 Today, Cool Japan Video granted this account an official badge ✨✨✨ And thank you, as always, to everyone who watches. We will continue working hard to share the charms of Shobara, Hiroshima Prefecture in an easy-to-understand and enjoyable way so that more people will visit! If you’re curious about outing information for Shobara, Hiroshima Prefecture, please check the Shobara Tourism Information site "Shobara Tourism Navi"! Shobara Tourism Promotion Organization (Shobara DMO) is an organization that values contributing to the community and personal growth! ▷ Development and sales of tourism products and local specialties that leverage regional resources. ▷ Promotion, PR, and sales activities to attract tourists and tours. ▷ Information services for inquiries about tourist information. [Contact] Shobara Tourism Promotion Organization (General Incorporated Association) TEL 0824-75-0173 FAX 0824-75-0172 Shobara DMO official site ▽ https://shobara-dmo.jp// Shobara Tourism Navi information site ▽ https://www.shobara-info.com//

56th Takashima Castle Festival Hello everyone! The hot weather continues. 💦 This weekend the forecast is uncertain, but the Takashima Castle Festival will take place on Sunday the 25th. The festival commemorates the 1970 reconstruction of Takashima Castle’s keep. Along with Taiko drumming, a dragon-god dance, and kiyari work chants, the grounds will host a Suwa City recommended souvenir exhibition and sale, among other events. ・Date and time ⇒ Sunday, May 25, 2025, 9:00–15:00 ・Location ⇒ Takashima Park ・Attractions ⇒ Stage performances and various vendors ・Parking ⇒ Suwa Lake Event Plaza (for visitors) For details, please check the URL below! https://suwacci.or.jp/suwayoiteko/lp/takashimajousai/...

The Sacred Tree Festival: Once every 20 years, the sacred tree destined for dedication at Ise Jingu is felled in the Omomasahajime Ceremony, followed by the celebratory Sacred Tree Festival. This grand festival, held once every 20 years, will take place in June 2025. The Omomasahajime Ceremony on June 3 is part of Ise Jingu’s rituals and is not open to the public, but the Sacred Tree Festival from June 4 to 6 is open to everyone. You can also enjoy dedication rituals and traditional performing arts. You may join the rare and important tree-transport procession, the Okihiki, which carries the sacred tree to Ise Jingu. Registration closes once capacity is reached. For inquiries, contact Agematsu Tourism Association at 0264-52-1133 or check the website. Exclusive original goods available for a limited time are on sale now. See the Kiso Tourism Federation website “Kiso Valley Trip” for purchase details. Due to this event, Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest will be closed all day on June 3 and closed the morning of June 4. Please note that entry to the park will be prohibited. The sacred tree will also stop in Nagiso Town and other locations on June 6. If you live nearby, please come see it. For full details, check the official Kiso Dedication Association website.

Hello, this is the Kitsuki City Tourism Association! Kitsuki City, located in the northeastern part of Oita Prefecture, is a full of charm Castle Town surrounded by abundant nature. Kitsuki City, with a population of about 26,000 (as of 2023), is There is a at the base of the Kunisaki Peninsula and is easily accessed from Oita Airport. Kitsuki City is known as the "Castle Town of the Slope" and is characterized by a rare townscape in Japan, with samurai residences spread out on high ground from north to south, arranged across the merchant town in the valley. In this first COOL JAPAN VIDEO posting, we will deliver plenty of Tourist Information that allows you to fully enjoy Kitsuki City! We will also introduce recommended Spots and exquisite gourmet Information, so be sure to check it out! 【Access to Kitsuki City, Oita Prefecture】 Kitsuki City, Oita Prefecture can be reached in about 30 minutes by car from Oita Airports. In addition, it is about 30 minutes by car from Beppu / Yufuin. Use JR Station is the closest. Transportation from the station to the Castle Town area by local bus or Taxi and enjoy a historical walk. There are the sea nearby, the beautiful scenery Unfolds on a sunny day, and it is also popular as a Driving course, so renting a car is also recommended! 【About Kitsuki City, Oita Prefecture】 While receiving the blessings of the sea and mountains, Kitsuki City has nurtured its own culture over a long history. Above all, if you walk through the Castle Town, you can feel the good Nostalgic Atmosphere with Samurai Residences and Merchant Towns left everywhere. If you are interested in the kimono experience and historical walks that are often introduced in Kitsuki City's Tourist Information, please visit. 【Historical background of Kitsuki City, Oita Prefecture】 Kitsuki City, Oita Prefecture developed from the Muromachi period to the Edo period, and the townscape of the Edo period still remains Richly preserved, making it an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. It is attractive that you can enjoy the unique scenery and history that other Castle Towns do not have. In particular, the structure that developed in the form of Samurai residences lined up on the north and south and sandwiched between the Merchant Town in the center is rare in Japan. This unique townscape of "Castle Town on the Slope" has become one of the reasons why many tourists have visited it in recent years. 【Popular Sightseeing spots in Kitsuki City】 ◆Kitsuki Castle Kitsuki Castle, a symbol of Kitsuki City, Oita Prefecture, is said to be the smallest Castle Keep in No.1 in Japan, but its charm is said to be a Castle Town with a compact but unusual shape with historical value. From the high ground of the castle, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Castle Town cityscape and Seto Inland Sea, giving Visitors Impression. The castle is Open to the public as a Museum and is recommended for history buffs and photography lovers. ◆Suya Slope, Shioya (Shihoya) Slope Slope with Samurai Residence and other townscapes reminiscent of the scenery of the Edo period. If you look down from the top of the slope or walk along the Stone pavement slope that connects the high ground, the scenery Unfolds as if you have traveled back in time. There are many tourists who rent kimonos and stroll around the city, and it is also famous as a photo Spot of the Kitsuki City Tourism Model Course. ◆Kitsuki Castle Shitamachi Area (Samurai Residence, Merchant Town) It is characterized by a castle town with a very rare topography in Japan, with a group of Samurai Residence Districts spreading out on the high ground from north to south and a merchant town spread out in the valley. At the Samurai Residence, you can also visiting the site architectural techniques and structures where you can learn about the lifestyles and construction techniques of the time, and the fun of learning about the historical background Unfolds. Souvenir shops and cafes are also scattered around, so you can enjoy a little Meals and shopping. ◆Ohara Residence It is known as a presence that represents a corner of the Samurai Residence, and the Charming Garden and the appearance of the old architecture make you feel the history of Kitsuki more deeply. Please think about the culture of the Castle Town and the lives of the people at that time. 【Kitsuki City's Traditional Culture and Crafts】 In Kitsuki City, traditions representative by samurai residences and Castle Town culture are inherited, while local festivals and performing arts rooted in the locals are also carefully preserved in various places. Especially in Kitsuki City, which is still deeply connected to kimono culture, you can enjoy the kimono experience. If you walk in a kimono to blend in with the Castle Town, you will feel as if you are the protagonist of a period drama. In addition, as a kimono Privileges, you can enter the cultural facilities for free, and there are services such as discounts at Privileges Subject shops, so you can stroll around at a great price. In particular, taking photos on Samurai Residence Street and Shioya Slope is sure to look good on social media. 【Gourmet food in Kitsuki City】 ◆Kitsuki tea / Kitsuki black tea Tea Production around Kitsuki City is characterized by its deep taste and refreshing aroma. In recent years, it is one of the few domestic black teas At cafes in the city, you can enjoy seasonal Japanese sweets with Kitsuki tea and matcha. Why don't you spend a moment of travel while taking a break at a quaint café in Castle Town? ◆Mandarin oranges (citrus fruits) Kitsuki City is a Mandarin Oranges production area that boasts one of the highest productions in the prefecture. In addition, various varieties are also cultivation, so many people visit to coincide with the citrus season. ◆ Strawberries Kitsuki City is one of the one of the most strawberry-producing areas in Oita Prefecture, and High quality strawberries are cultivation that take advantage of the warm climate and rich nature environment. Varieties such as "Saga Honoka" and "Belitsu" are especially popular, and are characterized by a good balance of sweetness and acidity, rich Aroma and juiciness. Strawberry picking can also be enjoyed at the tourist farm, and it is popular with many people. ◆Hamo Oyster Kitsuki City is known as a fisheries for ducks, and Raised in the fast currents of the Bungo Water Channel, the ducks are characterized by their tight flesh and good fat. It is in season from summer to autumn, and you can enjoy its elegant taste with hot water and tempura. Oyster farming is also thriving, growing in nutrient-rich waters and having a rich umami and creamy texture. Especially in winter, when the Oyster Highway is in season! The store, which serves a variety of dishes such as grilled oysters and steamed oysters, is crowded with many customers. 【Introduction of Events and Festivals in Kitsuki City】 ◆Kitsuki Castle Festival (May) A traditional festival centered on the Castle Town area where Samurai parades and stage events are held like historical picture scrolls. Local residents and tourists will It will be a lot of fun! together. ◆Kitsuki Tenjin Festival (July) It is a 300-year-old festival held at Kitsuki Tenmansha Shrine and the Castle Town area, where dancers, drum drummers, mikoshi and festival floats parade through the town of Kitsuki. ◆ Kangetsu Festival (October) An event to enjoy Tea and the famous moon of mid-autumn in the Traditional Japanese straw raincoat of the Castle Town. Lights are lit in the Castle Town, and it is a festival that colors the autumn night in a very fantastic way. ◆Castle Town Kitsuki Walk and Hiina Tour (February ~ March) Hiina Meguri is held in for about one month. This is an Events around the Hina dolls displayed in Samurai residences and Machiya houses. In the Traditional Japanese straw raincoat full of Edo atmosphere, you can feel the arrival of Spring. 【Tourist Information of Kitsuki City, Oita Prefecture】 Kitsuki City is an attractive town with a townscape full of history, beautiful Nature, and a food culture born from that Nature. Wear a kimono and walk around the Castle Town, enjoy the spectacular scenery, and enjoy delicious local cuisine. Why don't you experience such a special trip in Kitsuki City? Plenty of charm awaits your visit. In the next post, I will introduce Kitsuki that I couldn't write in this post!

A water‑welcoming ritual took place on the Saigawa River flowing through Azumino. At the confluence of the Saigawa, Takasegawa, and Hotakagawa rivers, a Shinto ceremony was held to pray for a bountiful harvest for the year, the prevention of water disasters, and the development of tourism. We give thanks for the blessings of water that flow down from the Northern Alps.

Today was the Ennichi of Kawagoe Kumano Shrine Precincts and Kawagoe Senarai Benten Itsukushima Shrine. There was a dedication.

[Hanakien Opens] Hanakien on Yachiho Kogen opens today, Saturday, May 10. 🌸 The garden is filled with blooming pink azaleas (rengetsu tsutsuji), Enkianthus (dodantsutsuji), and three-leaf azaleas (mitsuba tsutsuji), and in June the park will be dyed red with flowers. 💐💐 Come and visit us. 🌳🥰 Opening period: Saturday, May 10, 2025 – Sunday, October 5, 2025 Hours: 8:30 AM–4:20 PM (last admission at 3:30 PM)

Japan’s Most Beautiful Stand of Silver Birches✨ Slender silver birches reach up toward the blue sky🌳✨ The sky’s blue, the birches’ white, and the green sasa grass underfoot… Everything is so beautiful you’ll want to stare forever😌🌱 The atmosphere changes with each season, so you’ll want to return again and again! Come and visit Yachiho Kogen😸♡

Yachiho Kogen Natural Garden A nature garden that captures the natural beauty of Yachiho Kogen...😌🩷 At the garden, you can enjoy three walking courses suited to your available time♬ White Trail: 1 km, about 30 minutes Blue Trail: 1.5 km, about 50 minutes Green Trail: 2.5 km, about 80 minutes In spring and summer, the highland flowers bloom, and in autumn the leaves turn brilliant—there’s plenty to see!🍁 We hope you’ll come and visit😸✨✨

Yachiho Lake Yachiho Lake is a managed fishery where you can enjoy catch-and-release fishing 🐟🫧 Families can have fun together, and there is a Fishing Kids Land where baited rods are available for rent 😸 You can enjoy it surrounded by abundant nature 🌸 We hope you will come and visit ✨

　It was taken at the Fujiwara Festival in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture. About 900 years ago, at the end of the Heian period, when Minamoto Yoshitsune, who was chased by his brother Minamoto no Yoritomo, relied on Fujiwara no Hidehiro of Hiraizumi and went down to the east. This is the 62nd Festival that Reproduction the Scene. Dressed in costumes Reproduction Heian picture scrolls, a line of horses and cattle Car procession from Moetsu Temple to Chūson Temple. 　The photo was taken Temple a brave warrior who departed from the main gate of Mao Yue.

I'm a carp on Taisho Romantic Dream Street. 🎏

Hello everyone! This is Kōshū Inden, Yamanashi Traditional Crafts Village, located in Shosenkyo Gorge. Right now, Shosenkyo Gorge is wrapped in vivid fresh greenery around the fountain, and it’s truly the season when nature’s beauty stands out. On clear days, the deep blue sky contrasts beautifully with the lively green, making you stop in your tracks to take it in. The sound of the fountain and the pleasant breeze add to the atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a Golden Week stroll. At our shop, we showcase many traditional crafts from Yamanashi. One highlight is the recently launched natural stone polishing experience! Choose your favorite natural stone and gradually polish it—the process feels like discovering a little treasure. Watching the stone become shiny is so absorbing that both adults and children get completely caught up in it. Create a travel memory or enjoy it while waiting for your meal. Come and try it for yourself. We sincerely look forward to welcoming you.

Cherry blossom viewing begins on May 1st. Hanachozu has begun. Hand water bowl for one tatami mat Fresh flowers according to the season, etc. It is decorated and very beautiful.

May 3 (Sat) Seihou Fudoson — Temple Opening The annual temple opening will take place at Seihou Fudoson in the Hikita district of Isehara City. Time: 10:00 a.m. to about 1:00 p.m. On this day, the doors of the main hall, usually kept closed, are opened, offering a rare chance to view the figure of Seihou Fudo. The temple’s mysterious presence and quiet atmosphere continue to move visitors deeply, even today. Surrounded by May’s fresh green foliage, why not take a short trip to touch history and faith? 📍Access: From Isehara Station North Exit, take Kanagawa Chuo Kotsu bus platform 1 toward Kurihara, about 20 minutes; get off near Hokokuji and walk 60 minutes. 🧗‍♂️Please come in clothing and footwear suitable for walking. For details, see the tourism association website: https://isehara-kanko.com/history/hijirimine/...

Go to Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture in May! 🏃 Have you already decided where to go for Golden Week? Here are five events currently taking place or planned in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture. (In no particular order) Please join any events that catch your interest 😍 1. 31st Ancient Tatara Ironmaking: Recreating Japan’s Traditional Steelmaking Technique Since the opening of the National Bihoku Hillside Park in 1995, the community-led "Ancient Tatara Ironmaking" project has been held continuously; this year marks its 31st edition. We continue this work to pass down the tatara steelmaking technique, a symbol of the Chugoku Mountain region’s culture, to the next generation. Date: Saturday, May 10 and Sunday, May 11, 2025 Venue: Hiba-no-Sato Ancient Tatara Workshop, National Bihoku Hillside Park Details: We will recreate the full process of the ancient Japanese steelmaking technique tatara steelmaking, using the kera pressing method to extract kera—the raw material that becomes tamahagane, the high-quality steel used for Japanese swords and other premium blades. [Instructors] Holder of the Selected Preservation Technique 'Tamahagane Production (tatara blowing)' — Murashita Shoku (chief tatara operator) and Kaoru Horio (堀尾 薫; overall supervisor). Participants: Around 100 people (including general participants and partner organizations) Fee: Free to observe (park admission fee required separately) Note: Paid overnight two-day hands-on experience reservations have closed. Contact: National Bihoku Hillside Park, 4-10 Mikkaichi-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture 727-0021 TEL: 0824-72-7000 FAX: 0824-72-7828 2. Shobara Satoyama Open Garden 2025 Spring This annual event lets visitors tour gardens ranging from imaginative home plots to authentic Japanese gardens, where seasonal flowers are in bloom. Dates: Saturday, May 10–Sunday, June 15, 2025 Times: 10:00–12:00 / 13:00–16:00 Venue: Various locations in Shobara City Contact: Shobara Flower Conference Office, Shobara Tourism Promotion Organization (Shobara DMO) (inside Satoyama Station Shobara Furari, 4-10 Mikkaichi-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture) TEL: 0824-75-0173 FAX: 0824-75-0172 For the latest information, check the official Shobara Flower Conference website or the Instagram account @satoyamaopengarden. 3. Shobara Satoyama Marche at Hiroshima Station From April 2025 this event will be held on the third Wednesday of every month! Operated by JR West Properties, Roadside Station Takano, and Shobara Tourism Promotion Organization (Shobara DMO), this market at Hiroshima Station’s north exit on the first floor offers fresh vegetables, processed goods, and seasonal ingredients from the popular Roadside Station Takano in Takano Town, Shobara City. Visitors come every month looking forward to this market—be sure to stop by at least once. Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 Time: 11:00–15:00 Venue: Hiroshima Station North Exit, 1st floor, next to ekie Kitchen (1-2 Matsubara-cho, Minami Ward, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture) Contact: Roadside Station Takano TEL 0824-86-3131 4. Bihoku Flower Picnic (Now On) The Bihoku Flower Picnic is taking place at the National Bihoku Hillside Park in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture. ✨ Spring flowers such as daffodils, cherry blossoms, tulips, and nemophila will reach their best viewing times during the period. There are also many spring-themed workshops and local spring cooking events, offering plenty of ways to enjoy the season. Note: Flowering conditions may vary depending on weather and temperatures. Dates: Through Sunday, May 11, 2025 Time: 9:30–17:00 (park entry until 16:00) Venue: National Bihoku Hillside Park (4-10 Mikkaichi-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture) Fees: Regular and light vehicles 400 yen, large vehicles 1,200 yen, motorcycles 200 yen Contact: National Bihoku Hillside Park (4-10 Mikkaichi-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture 727-0021) TEL: 0824-72-7000 FAX: 0824-72-7828 5. Sakura Shokudo Children’s Day Marche Sakura Shokudo, which opened new in December 2024, is a farm-run eatery inside the Shokusai-kan Shobara Yume Sakura Hall and is operated directly by Shigehara Farm. To celebrate Children’s Day on Monday, May 5, the marche will bring together delightful and delicious vendors from inside and outside Shobara and Miyoshi Cities. A kids’ space will also be available for children to enjoy. Date: Monday, May 5, 2025 (national holiday) Time: 10:00–16:00 Venue: Farm-Run Sakura Shokudo (291-1 Shinjo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture) Contact: Farm-Run Sakura Shokudo (291-1 Shinjo-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture) TEL: 0824-75-4516 Notes: ・Exhibitors may change, so please be aware in advance. ・Admission is free, but workshops, hands-on activities, and purchases are chargeable. ・Please take your trash home with you. That’s five recommended events for May! For more details, please see the Events list on the Shobara Tourist Navi, the official tourism information site for Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture 😍

The famous Great Buddha of Tsubozaka Temple in Nara Prefecture was crowded with tourists from overseas with many languages flying around.