Otofuke’s power spot Otofuke Shrine This verdant shrine feels like a deep forest. Ezo squirrels live here, and you can watch them eat and dash about energetically. Visiting cleanses the heart, so do consider paying a visit.

So that you can choose Miyakojima as a travel destination that will be a memory of your lifetime, we will deliver the charm of Miyakojima through Cool Japan Video! First of all, this is my first post, so I will introduce Miyako Island and popular tourist spots. Miyakojima, located in Okinawa Prefecture, is one of the Miyako archipelago Miyakojima, Ikemajima, Ōmijima, Irabu Island, Shimojijima, Kurimajima, Tarama Island, and Minna Island of eight large and small islands located 300 kilometers southwest of the main island of Okinawa, and is a remote island with a population of about 55,000. After all, the biggest attraction of Miyako Island is the beautiful sea. The crystal clear emerald green waters are ideal for diving and snorkeling, and are visited by many people from all over the world. Miyakojima has a hot and humid subtropical maritime climate, so the average temperature is around 15°C even in winter, which is warm throughout the year. There are many popular tourist spots on Miyakojima, but the top ones in the ranking are Yonaha Maehama Beach, Painagama Beach, Sunayama Beach, Irabu Bridge, Ikema Bridge, Kurima Bridge, Snow Salt Museum, and Miyakojima Marine Park. Yonaha Maehama Beach is said to be the most beautiful beach in the East with its highly transparent sea and 7 kilometers of pure white sandy beach. There are many tours of marine sports and marine activities such as snorkeling and diving, and you can see tropical fish up close. "Painagama Beach" is known as a hidden spot loved by locals, and it is the perfect place to spend a relaxing time. In addition, "Sunayama Beach" allows you to enjoy the pure white sand dunes and the beautiful cobalt blue sea. To enjoy the clear and beautiful sea, we recommend not only the beach, but also the drive of the bridge that connects Miyako Island to neighboring islands. The Irabu Bridge is the best spot to enjoy driving on the 3,540-meter-long bridge that opened in 2015 connecting Miyakojima and Irabu Island. It is the longest Japan bridge that can be crossed for free. In addition, the "Ikema Bridge" connecting Miyakojima and Ikema Island, surrounded by the "Ikema Blue" sea characterized by a deep blue gradation, and the "Kurima Bridge" connecting Miyakojima and Kurima Island can enjoy different superb views, so we recommend renting a car and enjoying the magnificent scenery. Miyakojima is also the birthplace of the fluffy powdered salt "snow salt", and at the popular tourist spot "Snow Salt Museum", you can learn about Miyakojima's traditional salt making techniques and have hands-on exhibits. In addition, "Miyakojima Marine Park" is a facility with a 4-meter sea floor where you can observe various fish from the window. While seeing fish and beautiful coral that can only be seen here, please experience the beauty of the sea of Miyako Island! As a memory of your trip to Miyako Island, please enjoy the special products recommended as souvenirs. The fruits of Miyakojima are especially popular, and the three "mangoes", "pineapples", and "passion fruits" are especially recommended. These fruits are grown in the rich nature and blessed climate of Miyako Island, and their taste is exquisite. In addition to the sightseeing spots and specialties introduced this time, Miyako Island is still full of charm. We will continue to send out information about such attractive Miyako Island in the future, so thank you! Please make special memories just for you here on Miyako Island.

Hello! 🙋‍♀️ This is Shintoku Tourism Association. We are sharing the schedule for the Tokachi Bus (Hokkaido Takushoku Bus) routes that run during the summer for mountain hikes ⛰ and day-trip hot spring visits ♨️, and in autumn for leaf-peeping 🍁. From Shintoku Station, about 60 km away, this is a great chance to reach those remote hot springs ♨️—the kind of hidden gems you want to visit precisely because they feel far away 🔥. For details, please contact Hokkaido Takushoku Bus.

Nice to meet you! We are the Kimobetsu Tourism Association. We would like to share the many charms of Kimobetsucho in Hokkaido with everyone watching Cool Japan videos. This is our first post, so we will briefly introduce Kimobetsu’s history, sightseeing spots, and local specialties. In future posts we will provide detailed information on events and hidden gem attractions, so please stay tuned. Kimobetsu has a long history and retains strong influences from Ainu culture. The town’s name comes from the Ainu word Kim-o-pet, meaning “river with many mountains.” As the name suggests, Kimobetsu is crossed by 41 rivers of various sizes, including the Shiribetsu River and Kimobetsu River. The town lies at the foothills of MtYotei, a 1,898-meter peak nicknamed Ezo Fuji for its resemblance to Mt. Fuji, and is a nature-rich town about a 1 hour 30 minute drive from Sapporo City. The annual average temperature is a relatively cold 5.9°C, and the area receives heavy snowfall—sometimes nearly 150 cm. The large day–night temperature swings create a fertile environment for agriculture, and crops grown here are shipped across Japan. Kimobetsu has developed into one of Hokkaido’s leading agricultural regions. In particular, asparagus is known as one of the places where commercial cultivation began in Japan. Its generous size, crisp yet tender texture, and natural sweetness are exquisite, so be sure to try it. Other recommended souvenirs include high-quality Baron potatoes and sweet corn. At Nakayama Pass, Roadside Station Boyou Nakayama offers specialties like age-imo (deep-fried potato) and a restaurant serving dishes made with local ingredients, as well as a shop selling regional products. From Kimobetsu Town Park you can view both MtYotei and MtShiribetsu and fully experience Kimobetsu’s great outdoors. Kimobetsu also actively operates an empty house bank as part of municipal initiatives to encourage relocation. This program makes effective use of vacant homes in town and is available to people hoping to move here, settle permanently, or stay regularly, contributing to local revitalization. If you are considering relocating to a place with abundant nature, please check Kimobetsu’s official website. Kimobetsu combines rich nature, tourist attractions, and history, and offers a sense of slow, peaceful time. You can find a pleasant respite away from the daily hustle and bustle. Unknown beautiful landscapes, new experiences, and fresh encounters await you in Kimobetsu, Hokkaido. We will continue to share Kimobetsu’s charms, so please come and visit Kimobetsu!

Nice to meet everyone who watched the COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! Shibecha is the Tourism Association. Since this is my first post, I would like to introduce the Shibecha first. As for how to read "Shibecha", it is read as "shibechacho". The name of the town is derived from "Sipecha", which means "on the banks of a large river" in the Ainu language. With a population of 7,163 as of February 2023, Hokkaido Shibecha is located in Kawakami District, 40 kilometers northeast of the center of Kushiro City, and is the sixth largest town in Japan. It has an inland climate with hot summers and cold winters, and the annual temperature difference is larger than that of neighboring Kushiro City. The Shibecha is divided into "Tawadaira Area", "Nijibetsu area", "urban area", and "Toro and Kayanuma area". Here are some popular sightseeing spots in each area. 【Tawadaira Area】 ・Tawahei Observatory It is an observatory overlooking the 360-degree horizon. You can also enjoy camping, so it is convenient as a base for riders touring Hokkaido. ・Shibecha breeding farm Cows are raised by grazing on a vast ranch, and you can see cows and sheep playing peacefully in the surrounding area. 【Nijibetsu Area】 ・Mt. Nishibetsu It is an 800-meter-high mountain that is easy to climb even for beginners, which is visited by about 30,000 climbers a year. You can enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Nekushi Plateau and precious alpine wildflowers. ・Lake Schwanbetsudam It is a popular lake for auto camping and rainbow trout fishing. You can catch large rainbow trout from summer to autumn. 【Urban Area】 ・Kushiro River Shibecha Ryokuchi Park It is a park located on the riverbed about 10 minutes on foot from JR Shibecha Station, and there is a park golf and event square, making it a spot that can be enjoyed by both children and adults. 【Toro / Kayanuma Area】 ・Shibecha Museum "Nitai To" It exhibits the history of Shibecha from the Jomon period to the modern era and natural materials such as insect specimens. In Shibecha, you can also enjoy leisure activities such as canoeing on the Kushiro River, smelt fishing on Lake Toro, lure and fly fishing on the Kushiro River, and cycling on the promenade of the Kushiro Marshland. There are plenty of accommodations, hot spring inns, and hotels, so please spend one day enjoying these sightseeing spots and leisure to the fullest! Access to the Shibecha is about 1 hour by train from Kushiro Station. Between Kushiro Station and Shibecha Station, you can also come to Shibecha on Japan's slowest train "Marsh Norokko-go" that runs slowly and leisurely during the summer, and the "SL Winter Marsh" that runs through the Shirogane Kushiro Marshland from January to March. We will continue to send out attractive Shibecha information, so thank you!

Today the high is 28°C, and the warm weather makes short sleeves comfortable during the day! Right now, baby grapes are growing well in the guide center garden vineyard ☺ They say harvest will be around autumn. I wonder if they will become a delicious wine?

Hello!🙋‍♀️ This is Shintoku Tourism Association. The weather is lovely today.☀️ As Shintoku Town warms, fresh young greens🌱🌿🌲 are spreading across the mountains🏔️⛰️. Along National Route 38’s garden road, the old Karikachi Line railway trace known as the “Poppo no Michi” is sprouting bright new greenery, making it a perfect season for walking🏃‍♀️🏃🏃‍♂️ and cycling🚴🚴‍♂️🚵‍♀️. About 10 km to Karikachi Plateau, the mostly flat route that gently climbs passes attractions near Poppo no Michi such as Village 432, Shintoku Soba Hall, Be Wild, Yorkshire Farm, Ramen Rocky, Nomura Curry, and various cafes☕️🍰🍮. You’ll also find Soba Road, horseback riding experiences, a sheep farm, and the Osazagawa Bridge nearby, so there’s plenty to see and enjoy.✨ On your next day off, why not take a deep breath for both heart💓 and body💆‍♀️💆‍♂️ on Poppo no Michi? But don’t forget to bring a bear bell🧸🐻❗️

Hello! 🙋‍♀️ This is the Shintoku Tourism Association. Hello! 🙋‍♀️ This is the Shintoku Tourism Association. Starting today and continuing through late October, fresh vegetables 🥦🥬 will be sold at Sōma Store in front of Shintoku Station. Hokkaido will begin shipping a variety of vegetables now, so we’re excited to see which peppers, root vegetables, and more will appear on the stalls! 💓 Wild mountain vegetables are also offered in summer, so be sure to check them out 👀👀. Also, from June 7, growers will sell seasonal vegetables 🌽, fruits like grapes and watermelon 🍇🍉, and homemade processed goods next to Wakafuji Bakery 🥐🥯🍞, so you can enjoy shopping and chatting with producers about the town and its produce—sounds fun! 😄 Wakafuji’s bread is delicious too! ✨

Hello! I’m Mōru-chan, the local mascot of TokachigawaOnsen! She’s a girl with a bean-shaped body patterned like a cow, a pig’s nose, and corn-shaped horns♡ She’s packed full of Tokachi’s charms 😍 This one was apparently made by a staff member of Otofuke town hall using small building blocks from a 100-yen shop! There’s also a hot-spring-steam version.

Hello! 🙋‍♀️ This is the Shintoku Tourism Association. The past few days have been pleasantly warm and easy to enjoy. ☺️ Drawn out by the fine weather, I took a casual drive to Takketsu Kinokotan near the tourism association. 🚗💨 The wood that staff had been diligently inoculating with spores since last year has, surprisingly 👀, already produced shiitake mushrooms! ❗️ The greenhouse isn’t finished yet and the logs are still left out in the alley… Nature’s power is truly amazing. ✨✨✨ By summer the greenhouse will be ready and the shiitake will move in. 🚛 I’m looking forward to the autumn opening—one more thing to be excited about. 💓✨

Tomorrow, Thursday, May 25, the German cruise ship Hanseatic Nature will call at Tomakomai West Port. 🚢✨ ・Estimated arrival: 5:30–6:00 ・Welcome ceremony: 11:00–11:30 ・Estimated departure: 22:30–23:00 For details, contact the Port and Business Promotion Division, Corporate Policy Office, Industrial and Economic Department, Tomakomai City. Phone: 0144-32-6438

Hello! 🙋‍♀️ This is Shintoku Tourism Association. Today we promoted Shintoku Town aboard a special train organized by JTB, the “Japan no Shun” service. 🚃🎤 About 160 guests from across Hokkaido as well as Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka joined the four-day tour, which focuses on spring blooms in eastern Hokkaido. 🌼🌺🌷✨ On board, during the 30 minutes between Shinyubari and Shimukappu, we introduced dairy farming, soba noodles, local activities, and connections to the railway, and livened things up with cheese tasting 🧀 and a raffle awarding Shintoku soba. 🎊 Although the tour did not include a stop in Shintoku Town for sightseeing this time, we did our best to promote the town so that visitors will stop by on their next trip to eastern Hokkaido or choose Shintoku products through mail order or hometown tax donations. 💪🔥 #Hokkaido #Tokachi #Shintoku Town #Shintoku Tourism Association #Shintoku Station #JR special train #JTB #Train travel #Kyodogakusha #Shintoku soba #Furusato tax donation #Japan no Shun #Flower tour

Bibai Tourism and Products Association. "Bibai City, Hokkaido" is visited by many tourists for its abundant nature, mild climate, and delicious food. From now on, I would like to introduce the charm of Bibai City in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! First of all, Bibai City is read as "Bibaishi" and is located between Sapporo City and Asahikawa City, and is located within about one hour from both cities. Bibai City is served by National Route 12 connecting Sapporo and Asahikawa, and the section from Bibai City to Takikawa City is a straight road that continues all the way, and there is a road that boasts the longest straight-line distance in Japan. As for the weather and climate of Bibai City, a refreshing breeze blows through in spring, a cool climate continues in summer, and beautiful snowscapes spread out in winter. You can enjoy the atmosphere of the four seasons, and the beauty of each season brings new discoveries every time you visit. Introducing popular tourist spots in Bibai City! First of all, Miyajima Swamp is one of the world's leading spots where you can see migratory birds such as geese and swans. It is located about 30 minutes by bus from JR Bibai Station, and every year about 70,000 birds come from Russia far north of Hokkaido in spring and autumn. Especially in the early morning and evening, when you can see the herd, the sight of the sky and swamps filled in black is a masterpiece. In addition, the "Coal Mine Memorial Forest Park" is a tourist attraction not to be missed. Bibai City once flourished from coal mining. In this park, which was built on the site of the former coal mine, you can see a tower that transports coal from deep underground, and a raw coal pocket for storing coal. As a valuable tourist spot where the memories of the coal miners of the past coexist with the nature of the present, it was 2007 Heisei 19 selected as an "Industrial Heritage of Modernization". Next is "KAN YASUDA SCULPTURE MUSEUM ARTE PIAZZA BIBAI". The works of world-renowned sculptor Kan Yasuda are exhibited here. His works blend in with the surrounding landscape, as if they were one with nature, providing peace and emotion to visitors. At Tomei Park, a vast park located in a hilly area, 2,000 cherry trees bloom during the cherry blossom season, and the "Bibai Cherry Blossom Festival" is held, and it is a popular tourist spot where you can enjoy the illuminated cherry blossoms at night. And at the "Bibai City Experience Exchange Center", even first-time visitors can easily experience pottery such as pottery and painting, and can be enjoyed by both children and adults. The last thing I would like to introduce is "Sorachi Shrine". This shrine is watched over by an old tree that is over 900 years old, and you can experience "making bangle protection" from natural stone. On your trip to Bibai City, please enjoy delicious meals. In particular, Bibai City's "Bibai Yakitori" is a local gourmet that you can't miss. It is one of the seven major yakitori in Japan, and is made by skewering chicken, chicken liver, inner eggs, gizzards, and onions. As a local soul food, it is a popular gourmet for a wide range of generations from children to adults. Please try it when you come to Bibai. And "Torimeshi" It is a local dish that has been passed down for more than 100 years, and because rice, stir-fried meat, and motsu are cooked with soy sauce, sugar, and sake, and almost no other ingredients or seasonings are used, the aroma and taste have a strong chicken flavor, and it has a taste different from other mixed rice. We look forward to welcoming you with rich natural scenery, sightseeing spots where you can feel history and culture, delicious food, and warm hospitality! Stay tuned for future posts!

Nice to meet you all! Hamanaka Town is the Tourism Association! Since this is my first post, I would like to introduce myself to the Hamanaka Town. Hamanaka Town is a small town with a population of 5300 in the Akkeshi of Hokkaido. Hokkaido Hamanaka Town is a place full of charm where nature, climate, culture, food, and the warmth of the people envelop all visitors. The average annual temperature in Hamanaka Town is 5.5°C, making it one of the coldest regions in Japan. The cold wind carried by the cold current brings the unique climate and weather of the four seasons of Hamanaka Town. Designated as the sixth quasi-national park in Hokkaido in March 2021, Akkeshi Kiritappu Kombumori Quasi-National Park has two large wetlands, Bekanbeushi Wetland and Kiritappu Wetland. Although Kiritappu Wetland is a low-lying area of less than 3 meters above sea level, it is a valuable tourist spot where you can see alpine plants due to the wetland environment, and many people visit it. We hope you will enjoy the magnificent scenery in each season, such as the snowy scenery created by the harsh cold of winter and the about 300 kinds of flowers that bloom from spring to autumn! Hamanaka Town is the birthplace of Monkey Punch, the original author of "Lupin the Third," and has been revitalizing the town featuring "Lupin the Third" for more than 10 years. Lupin III wrapping buses, wrapping trains, and wrapping hire cars run throughout the city, signs of Lupin and Inspector Zenigata are installed at the station, and Monkey Punch's work room is reproduced in the Monkey Punch Collection at the Hamanaka Town Cultural Center, and there are many exhibits where you can fully experience the world of Lupin the Third. At "Kiritappu Onsen Yuyu", there is also a sale of original goods of Lupin the Third that can only be obtained here, so it is recommended as a souvenir. Surrounded by nature Hamanaka Town there are many popular scenic sightseeing spots. "Biwase Observatory" is a spot where you can overlook the rich nature of the Hamanaka Town and has a breathtaking view. Cape Azeti is located at the western end of the Kiritappu Peninsula and gives you a sense of the grandeur of nature. Cape Kiritappu is located in the rough waves of the Pacific Ocean. Wild sea otters live in the surrounding area, and if you're lucky, you can even see them from the promenade leading to the tip of the cape. In addition, there are campsites and relaxation places, and camping with a superb view overlooking the magnificent sea is popular. When you visit Hamanaka Town, enjoy fresh seafood and popular gourmet food. Kelp, salmon trout and autumn salmon, Toxilazu, saury, hairy crab, Hanasaki crab, Hokkai striped shrimp, hokki shellfish, clams, natural oysters, octopus, etc. are specialties, and fresh seafood that can only be tasted in Hamanaka Town will make tourists' tongues growl! Hamanaka Town milk is produced in a high-standard environment and is also used as a raw material for the world-famous ice cream brand "Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream". The umami that spreads in your mouth is unforgettable once you taste it. You can experience the charm of Hamanaka Town to the fullest through the events and festival held throughout the year. The "Hamanaka Cherry Blossom Festival" held in late May is a popular event held at Hamanaka Cherry Blossom Park, a cherry blossom viewing spot in the town. At the Cape Kiritappu Festival held in mid-September, you can visit Cape Kiritappu Lighthouse and taste seasonal seafood at the food stall village. Hokkaido AkkeshiHamanaka Town is a moving experience that visitors will never forget, with its natural scenery as far as the eye can see, delicious local cuisine, and the warmth of the local residents. We will continue to send out attractive information on Hamanaka Town, so thank you! !!

Walking around the Tokachigawa Onsen Guide Center, you’ll find fields full of canola flowers. Their vibrant yellow pops against the blue sky. It’s become a wonderfully pleasant season.

We introduce Tomakomai City's tourist information center! At the center, they also sell local mascot Tomachoppu goods and regional specialties! 😊 You can also find merchandise related to anime and manga works connected to Tomakomai City, attracting many fans! ✨ Tomakomai City is even listed among the 88Anime Pilgrimage Sites in Japan that fans want to visit, reflecting its ties to many works. When you visit Tomakomai City, be sure to drop by the tourist information center!! Bicycle rentals are also available! (Limited period only) [ Address ] 053-0022 1st floor, Friend Building, 5-11-5 Omotecho, Tomakomai City, Hokkaido ( Bus stop serves as a landmark 🚌 ) [ Hours ] 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Let us introduce Tomakomai City's local mascot!! This is the deputy city bird (fukushichou), Tomachop!! 🎉✨ Tomachop was born in 2011 from an idea by junior high students in Tomakomai City. The name combines things connected to Tomakomai City. Tomachop even appears in the smartphone game "Uma Musume" and is loved not only locally but across Japan 💖 Tomachop warmly looks forward to your visit!! 🎈🦢 ≪ Tomachop Profile ≫ ・ Name: Tomachop ・ Birthday: August 22 ・ Bird Age: Forever five years old (approximately) ・ Address: Utonai 053, Tomakomai City ・ Hometown: Lake Utonai ・ Hobbies: Skating, going out, and eating snacks (munch munch) ・ Favorite Food: Surf clam rice burger (hokkigai rice burger) ・ Special Skill: Chop ・∀・ノ ・ Future Dream: To become the mayor of Tomakomai City

Nice to meet you all! This is the Tomakomai City Tourism Promotion Division. Tomakomai City is a city facing the Pacific Ocean in the central Hokkaido region of Hokkaido, with a population of about 170,000, about one and a half hours by car from Sapporo City, and about 30 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport. Tomakomai City is also known as the largest port city in Hokkaido. There is a port in the city where large ships and cargo ships come and go, and various goods are shipped to all over Japan. In addition, the Tomakomai Ferry Terminal is served by large passenger ships from Hachinohe Port in Aomori Prefecture, Sendai Port in Miyagi Prefecture, and Oarai Port in Ibaraki Prefecture, making it a gateway for sightseeing in Hokkaido by private car or motorcycle. It has also developed as an industrial city since ancient times, and the paper industry has flourished since the Meiji era, and it is known as a "paper town". The city is home to steel mills and petrochemical plants, which play an important role in supporting Japanese industry. Recently, renewable energy power plants have also been constructed, and the development of industries that are friendly to the global environment is progressing. On the other hand, it is also a city rich in nature, such as Lake Utonai, a Ramsar wetland, and Mt. Tarumae, a triple active volcano that is rare in the world. Tomakomai City is characterized by a comfortable climate throughout the year, with cool summers and less snowfall in winter than other parts of Hokkaido. At Tomakomai's major summer event, the Tomakomai Port Festival, there are many events such as stage events such as comedy live performances and song shows that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike, as well as citizens' odori parades on Ichijo-dori Street and Ekimae-dori Street. A cool fireworks festival is also held at the port, and vivid fireworks colors the night sky of Tomakomai with the vast Pacific Ocean in the background. In 2022, about 300,000 visitors visited, about twice the population. Tomakomai City has various attractions such as nature, port, industry, culture, and festival. You will be able to spend a pleasant time with the beautiful scenery of the four seasons, fresh seafood, historical buildings and museums, and warm contact with people. Please visit Tomakomai City and enjoy its charm to the fullest.

Cycling around the Ecolog Park, I came across a colony of large white Trillium. This flower is one of Hokkaido's emblematic blooms, even featured on Rokkatei packaging. Discovering small things while riding a bike is so much fun! Electric-assist bicycle rentals are now popular and available! We look forward to welcoming everyone.

Fresh green season has arrived 🌳 This is the row of white birch trees at Tokachi Ranch. The observatory, closed during winter, has reopened and offers sweeping views of the vast landscape. I could even spot cows grazing in the distance 🐄

Ainu Traditional Dance: Tokachigawa Sarorunrimse Performance The 5th Tokachigawa Sarorunrimse will take place. Guest masters of traditional dance from the Akan Ainu and the Biratori Ainu will come to Tokachigawa and the Chiyoda area, places connected to the Tokachi Ainu, to perform each community's Sarorunrimse (the crane dance). Date and time: Saturday, May 20, 2023, 5:00 PM – ※Held rain or shine Venue: Tokachigawa Onsen Aqua Park

Sorry for the late post, but the Midorigaoka Park Festival on Sunday, May 7th was a great success!! 🎊 Thank you so much to everyone who came 😆✨

Hello! 🙋‍♀️ This is the Shintoku Tourism Association. How are you spending Golden Week this year? Shintoku Town is full of happy visitors enjoying the sights! Today we visited the lively area along National Route 38, the town’s main street. The weather was lovely 🌞 and families 👨‍👩‍👦, friends 👭, couples 👫, and riders 🏍 all shared smiles 😄😄😄 around the tourist spots. Please create many wonderful memories ✨ and enjoy your Hokkaido trip while driving safely to the very end 🚗💨. #Hokkaido #Tokachi #Shintoku Town #Shintoku Tourism Association #Golden Week #Hokkaido trip #National Route 38 #sightseeing #smiles #memories #safe driving

Great news! The samurai seal of Gosamaru, who is said to have built both Nakagusuku Castle and Zakimi Castle, is now being offered for sale!! The Gosamaru depicted on the seal reflects his historical background. The seal sold at Zakimi Castle shows Gosamaru in his youth, while the seal sold at Nakagusuku Castle shows Gosamaru in old age! Place the two seals side by side and you can stamp the family crest of the Ke clan of Tomigusuku in the center, thanks to a built-in feature! (The Ke clan of Tomigusuku is the family line said to descend from Gosamaru!) Please be sure to purchase one when you visit Zakimi Castle or Nakagusuku Castle!!

Yomitanson, located in central Okinawa Prefecture, is known as Japan’s most populous village and offers wonderful sightseeing and historical experiences. Yomitanson is packed with attractions, from scenic beaches to the Zakimi Castle Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This being my first post, I’ll introduce Yomitanson’s sights, hotel options, weather, and history so you can get to know the village. [Popular attractions in Yomitanson] • Zakimi Castle Ruins and Yuntanza Museum Yomitanson in Okinawa Prefecture is home to the Zakimi Castle Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Used as a fortress of the Ryukyu Kingdom from the 15th to the 17th century, it was also selected as one of the Continued 100 Famous Castles of Japan and offers grand scenery and historical interest. Nearby, the Yuntanza Museum teaches visitors about Yomitanson’s history, culture, nature, and arts and crafts. The museum displays many historical artifacts and exhibits. • Toguchi Beach (Toguchi no Hama) Toguchi Beach in Yomitanson is a beautiful local spot known for its white sands and crystal-clear water. With calm waves and shallow water, it’s great for families. You can also enjoy snorkeling and diving. Cafes and restaurants line the shore, letting you relax there all day. • Cape Zanpa Cape Zanpa, at the westernmost point of Okinawa’s main island in Yomitanson, is famous for its stunning sunsets. Zanpa Lighthouse is located there and is known as a climbable lighthouse; from its heights you can take in sweeping views of the island’s west coast. Walking trails are well maintained, so you can stroll while enjoying sea and nature views. • Yachimun no Sato Yachimun no Sato is an area where Okinawa’s traditional pottery, yachimun, gathers. As you wander, you can find uniquely styled pottery and tableware, and take part in hands-on workshops to create your own pieces. It’s also a place to feel Yomitanson’s history and culture. [History of Yomitanson] Yomitanson prospered during the Ryukyu Kingdom era. Sites like the Zakimi Castle Ruins let you sense that Ryukyuan history. After World War II, U.S. military bases were established, and many base personnel came to live in the area. As a result, Yomitanson offers a distinct atmosphere where Okinawan traditional culture and American influences blend. [Annual weather in Yomitanson] Okinawa Prefecture is characterized by a mild climate year-round. Yomitanson is no exception; even in winter average temperatures exceed 15°C, making it comfortable. From June through September the area is prone to typhoons and heavy rainfall. Please pay attention to weather conditions when planning your visit. [Hotels in Yomitanson] Yomitanson offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resort hotels to business hotels and guesthouses. Resort hotels on the beachfront provide private beaches, pools, and spas for a full-featured stay. Meanwhile, minshuku and guesthouses let you interact with locals and experience everyday Okinawan life. Yomitanson has many popular attractions, including beautiful beaches and the Zakimi Castle Ruins, ensuring a satisfying trip. You can experience history and culture or simply relax at a resort. Plan a trip to Yomitanson and enjoy its charms. Yomitanson also has many local eateries and restaurants where you can savor Okinawan cuisine. Enjoy local flavors such as soki soba, Okinawa soba, and beniimo tart while sightseeing. If you enjoy alcohol, be sure to try awamori. Higa Shuzo in Yomitanson produces the popular awamori brand Zanpa and offers tours of its kura (aging warehouses) for old sake. Additionally, Yomitanson is conveniently located about a one-hour drive from Naha City. Access from Naha Airport is also easy, making the village a recommended base for exploring Okinawa. Enjoy a wonderful time in Yomitanson.

Hello!🙋‍♀️ This is the Shintoku Tourism Association. The Hirakawa family’s event✨ starts tomorrow and runs through Friday the 5th at Shintoku Shrine, where the cherry blossoms are in full bloom🌸. At the venue you’ll find everyone’s favorite dagashi (traditional Japanese sweets)🍭, plus a lottery, yo-yo balloons🪀, and super balls🎱. And of course, hanami means beer🍻 and sake🍶! On the shrine grounds you can also enjoy yakisoba, fried rice, and karaage from Miura Shop, and yakitori from Ueda Meat Shop❗️ Cosplayer Nene and caricature artist Kanayan will liven up the venue too!⤴️ The latter half of Golden Week looks set for warm, sunny weather🌞—start making fun memories💓 at Shintoku Shrine👍✨ #Hokkaido #Tokachi #Shintoku Town #Shintoku Shrine #Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom #Dagashi (traditional sweets) #Ueda Meat Shop #Hirakawa Shop #Cosplayer #Caricature

🌸 The Ezo-yamazakura cherry trees in Tomakomai City have begun to bloom. 🌸 They are in full bloom in the city center, while Midorigaoka Park may need a few more days to reach full bloom. It’s so exciting! 😊✨ The Midorigaoka Park Festival on Sunday, May 7th is coming up soon!! It runs from 10:00 to 16:00!! 🎉 Food trucks will come, and the festival will feature its first-ever Karaoke Contest. 🥙🤤🎤 Let’s make fun memories at the end of Golden Week!! 💖 We look forward to seeing many visitors!! 🎈😆

Hello!🙋‍♀️ This is the Shintoku Tourism Association. This morning🌄 the General Incorporated Association Shintoku Tourism Association held a safety prayer ceremony at Shintoku Shrine ⛩, where the cherry blossoms are in full bloom🌸. The mayor of Shintoku, the chair of the town council, the head of the Chamber of Commerce, and 15 directors of the Tourism Association attended, and we prayed👏 that visitors to Shintoku Town will create safe and happy memories. On the shrine grounds, the “Shintoku Shrine Yamazakura Festival” was taking place, opening with a performance by the Shintoku Junior High School brass band and featuring a local Shintoku Ondo dance. In addition to festival staples like Shintoku soba, okonomiyaki🥚, French fries🍟, cotton candy, and crepes🍌, there was also a yakiniku🔥 set so you can enjoy a barbecue under the cherry trees even if you come empty-handed. The rain that fell all morning cleared up and the festival is thriving. It runs until 2:00 PM🕑, so if you’re nearby, please come by!👍✨ #Hokkaido #Tokachi #Shintoku Town #Shintoku Tourism Association #Shintoku Shrine Yamazakura Festival #Shintoku Junior High School Brass Band #Barbecue #Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom

Hello!🙋‍♀️ This is the Shintoku Town Tourism Association. Golden Week is finally here.✨✨✨What kind of holiday do you have planned? Along National Route 38🛣 near Karikachi Plain in Shintoku Town, the snow❄️ has melted and the greenery🍀 is starting to stand out. From today, Sahoro Resort Bear Mountain🧸, the Karikachi Plain Eco Trolley Railway🚉, the Former Karikachi Line Museum🚂, the Pass Terrace☕️, and Western Village Sahoro🐎🐓 have begun opening one after another. If you are sightseeing nearby, please enjoy your time at Karikachi Plain!💓 #Hokkaido #Tokachi #Shintoku Town #Shintoku Town Tourism Association #Golden Week #National Route 38 #Karikachi Plain #Karikachi Plain Park #Sahoro Resort Bear Mountain #bear #Karikachi Plain Eco Trolley Railway #eco trolley #Former Karikachi Line Museum #blue train #Pass Terrace #Western Village Sahoro #horse riding

On April 28th, the cherry blossoms of Akkeshi blossomed and were declared in bloom.