Kam Flower Park Snow still paints the surroundings white, but flowers that welcome spring have begun to show their faces. The flower park attached to the Roadside Station "Kam" had been closed for winter, but it opened on Saturday, April 26. The park is free to enter through Golden Week. After that, normal admission fees apply. Here are a few flowers photographed on Friday, April 25. azumaichige ezōengosaku katakuri kibananomana Christmas rose daffodil chionodoxa puschkinia (white, blue) European katakuri (still in bud. The yellow flowers will bloom in a little while) When you stop by Kam, why not take a short walk out to the flower park? Roadside Station "Kam" CAPO Marche in Nishiokoppe Village runs May 3 (Sat) to May 5 (Mon)! Opening hours: 9:00–17:00 Closed: Tuesdays (if Tuesday is a public holiday, closed the day after the holiday) Admission: Roadside Station ⇒ free Flower Park ⇒ 200 yen for high school students and older Contact: 0158-87-2333 #Nishiokoppe Village #Hokkaido #Roadside Station #Kam #Flower Park #flowers

Photographed 5/1/25. This is the Ai sea bream lottery of Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine. It is a bright green color like a young leaf, and it is said that it is called "moeki".

This is one of the photos when I went to Yokohama Yamashita Park. I walked from Yamashita Park in the direction of Minato Mirai and took a picture of the Red Brick Warehouse that I could see from around the pier because it looked very beautiful. Gari reflects beautifully on the surface of the sea with the reflexion effect. It was an atmospheric night view.

Hello 😃 This is Enemon Denshokan. While the news often says the Kofu Basin is hot, a crisp spring breeze still sweeps through Shosenkyo Gorge, where ukonzakura (ukon cherry) blooms in full glory and fresh green leaves brighten the ravine! In fact, Enemon Denshokan has a marble chessboard on display. The natural stone’s beautiful patterns give it the presence of a work of art. In the quiet gallery, you can relax as you hold the chess pieces and enjoy a peaceful moment. It’s also highly photogenic, so please stop by as a memento of your sightseeing. Also, from April 27th we began a new polishing experience led mainly by Mr. Fukuda, a Yamanashi Master First-Class Gemstone Polisher. In a one-hour course you can become a “gemstone polishing artisan” and create a unique travel memory just for you. We look forward to welcoming you to the museum!

[Omachi City Flower Update 🌷] Cherry blossoms are entering their final stage, but in Omachi City the moss phlox, rhododendrons, and flowering peach trees are coming into full bloom 🌸✨ At the National Alps Azumino Park, Omachi Matsukawa Area, which is hosting "Spring Festa 2025", you can enjoy delicate baby blue eyes (nemophila) and tulips ✨🌷 🌷Flower Report 2025🌸 https://kanko-omachi.gr.jp/news/88859/... 🌳National Alps Azumino Park🌳 https://azumino-koen.jp/oomachi_matsukawa/...

It snowed recently, but the cherry blossoms are starting to bloom little by little. Snow still dresses the mountains, and on clear days you can enjoy beautiful mountain views, so here are a few highlights. ■Tokachi Millennium Forest @tokachi_millennium_forest From the vast grounds you can see the Hidaka Mountain Range. During Golden Week, May 3–6, the Spring Garden Festa takes place. ■Tokachigaoka Observatory Located near Tokachigawa Onsen, it offers views of the Tokachigawa River, the hot spring town, and the Hidaka Mountain Range. It’s also a lovely spot for watching the sunset. ■Shinarashiyama Sky Park Observatory The Tokachi Plain spreads below like a patchwork quilt, making it a perfect panorama point, with the Hidaka Mountain Range visible behind. ■Obihiro Shrine @obihirojinja Cherry trees along the approach and within the shrine grounds are beginning to bloom. The hanachozu (flower-filled water basins) are decorated with pink, white, yellow, and other flowers, creating a festive scene. ■Nupuka no Sato @nupukanosato Located within Daisetsuzan National Park at an elevation of 600 meters, Nupuka no Sato offers sweeping views of Tokachi. With cottages and camping areas, it’s a place for outdoor experiences. At night you may be treated to a beautiful moon and starry sky. Events are also held during Golden Week! For event details, please check the URL below. Why not come visit Tokachi? You might even catch the cherry blossoms. https://tokachibare.jp/event/...

Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour 🌸 The Amakusa West Coast is famed as one of the world’s premier sources of porcelain stone, Amakusa touseki. Over five days, from Friday, May 2 to Tuesday, May 6, the 30th Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour invites you to visit seven scattered kilns along this coast. Amakusa Karatsu Jurou Kiln Located in the Shimoda-minami area of the Amakusa West Coast, Jurou Kiln sits right by the sea where you can feel the ocean breeze. The kiln owner, Goh Kameyama, shapes and fires his pieces with a powerfully refined technique that gives the work a quiet tension. Meanwhile, Sanae Kameyama’s painted brushwork is delicate and graceful yet carries a distinctively modern sensibility that lends the vessels a soft expression. From sturdy, no-nonsense wares to charming, smile-inducing painted scenes, the couple’s contrasting sensibilities resonate to produce pieces that gently speak to both viewers and users. Location: Amakusa Karatsu Jurou Kiln 426 Shimoda-minami, Amakusa-machi, Amakusa City, Kumamoto 863-2802 TEL: 0969-42-3143 _______________________________ On Sunday, May 4 at Takahama-yaki Juhou Kiln! Sanae will perform an impromptu whale painting and in-situ blue-and-white underglaze dyeing, “whale painting 🐳 impromptu dyeing.” Please feel free to drop by and watch 👀 For details, search Instagram: Takahama-yaki Juhou Kiln @takahamaware_kilnjyuho ⚠️ Please note this event will not take place at Amakusa Karatsu Jurou Kiln. _______________________________ This is the final introduction to the participating kilns tomorrow 😿 Please be sure to take a look 💁‍♀️💁‍♂️💁 Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour 🌸 During the event, each kiln will offer new works for display and sale, plus special discount offers and other activities. Take this chance to visit, enjoy the beautiful Amakusa porcelain from each kiln, and savor the stunning scenery of the Amakusa West Coast. Two stamp rallies run at the same time! ※ A digital stamp rally qualifying for Kumamoto health points📱 ※ A stamp rally to win products from your chosen kiln (entry forms available at each kiln📃) Period Five days from Friday, May 2, 2025 to Tuesday, May 6, 2025 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Venues (Five kilns in Reihoku Town) Uchida Sarayama-yaki, Kobo Kaze, Mugen Kiln, Tenjiku Kiln, Unshu Kiln (Two kilns in Amakusa Town) Takahama-yaki Juhou Kiln, Amakusa Karatsu Jurou Kiln Inquiries: Amakusa Porcelain Stone Research and Development Promotion Council Secretariat (inside Reihoku Town Hall, Commerce and Tourism Division) TEL: 0969-35-3332

14th Teshikaga Photo Contest Winning Works On display at Tancho Kushiro Airport📷✨ _________________________ A collection of outstanding works awaits you❣️ Please take a look when you visit. Location: Tancho Kushiro Airport, 2nd-floor waiting lobby Period: May 1, 2025 to May 30, 2025

✨🍴Hiroshima Prefecture — New Restaurant News🍴✨ In spring 2025, a new cozy kominka café opened in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture 😍 Its name is “Tsuchinoko-tei.” Owner Yuki Watanabe, together with her husband and local friends, spent a year renovating the old house, and it has finally opened. Built in Taisho 5 (1916), the 110-year-old kominka blends seamlessly into Shobara’s landscape. The recommended dish is Tsuchinoko-tei’s homemade ramen (750 yen à la carte / 900 yen with coffee). The soy-sauce–based broth offers a comforting richness that appeals to all ages. The handmade chashu is light and easy to eat. The husband, Ippei, is in charge of the cooking; his experience working in restaurants inspired this homemade ramen. Also popular is the daily set meal, limited to 10 servings per day (1,000 yen / +200 yen with coffee). Going forward, they plan to use locally grown Shobara green onions and eggs and vegetables from their home garden. They are also planning to add a bath and sauna on the property, plus accommodations, a BBQ area, and karaoke space — so stay tuned for future developments! 😍✨ For more details about Tsuchinoko-tei, please visit the Shobara Tourist Navi website, the official tourism site for Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture ✅

2025 Green Season Sahoro Resort @tokachi_sahoro_resort_official We have received a notice from Bear Mountain that we will start business. We have 🐻 been open since Saturday, April 26 Business hours are from 9:00 to 16:00 (Last entry 15:20 ) For reservations and inquiries, Official website or Please contact us at TEL0156-64-7007. A very large brown bear welcomes you. What's that even in the light rain? I was eating rice deliciously. You can also see the claws of brown bears up close. There are also valuable exhibits. Please come and see it 🐻 #Hokkaido #Hokkaido Gourmet #Hokkaido Tourism #Hokkaidō #Tokachi #Tokachi #Tokachi Tourism #Tokachi Gourmet #Shintoku Town #Shintoku #Sahoro Resort #Bear Mountain #Brown Bear #羆 #Welcome Shintoku Town #Welcome back to Shintoku Town #hokkaido #hokkaido_lovers #hokkaido_love #ilovehokkaido #hokkaidotrip #hokkaidolikers #hokkaidolove #hokkaidosgram #hokkaidofood #hokkaidotravel #tokachi #shintoku #welcomeshintoku

Today, I attended the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine Monthly Festival. The azaleas in front of the hall were very beautiful. 🌺

Kawayu Onsen accommodation discount available (from May 7 – for residents of eastern Hokkaido only) A discount campaign for stays at Kawayu Onsen is being offered to residents of Kushiro, Nemuro, Okhotsk and Tokachi in eastern Hokkaido. The campaign runs from Wednesday, May 7, and is available every day except Saturdays. Come to Kawayu Onsen while this opportunity lasts. (The offer ends when the budget runs out, so act quickly!) <Kawayu Stay Discount 2025 Overview> [Eligible Period] Weekdays and Sundays from Wednesday, May 7, 2025 to Friday, July 18, 2025 [Discount Amount] 2,000 yen per adult and 1,000 yen per child per night [Eligibility] Residents of Kushiro, Nemuro, Okhotsk and Tokachi [How to Apply] ・Check each facility’s official website for details. ・Applications open on Thursday, May 1. ・The campaign ends when the budget is exhausted, so please apply early! <Participating Facilities> To make a reservation, click the name of each accommodation to view its official website. ・Kawayu Kanko Hotel 015-483-2121 ・KKR Kawayu 015-483-2643 ・Oyado Kinki-yu 015-483-2211 ・Oyado Kinki-yu Bettei Suikazura 015-486-9701 https://masyuko.or.jp/news/20250430/...

【Now Happening! Golden Week Special】Teshikaga Town Museum Stamp Rally During Golden Week, a stamp rally will take you around four museums in Teshikaga Town! From Saturday, April 26, 2025 through Sunday, May 11, 2025, a stamp rally visiting four museum facilities in Teshikaga will be held. The participating facilities are Teshikaga Town Kussharo Kotan Ainu Museum, Taiho Sumo Memorial Museum, Kawayu Visitor Center, and Teshikaga Town Furusato History Museum. Collect stamps at any three of these four museums to receive a lovely commemorative gift! This Golden Week event is fun for both adults and children and is perfect for making travel memories. [Event Period] Saturday, April 26, 2025 – Sunday, May 11, 2025 * Please note each museum’s closed days. * On April 30 and May 7, two of the participating museums will be closed. [How to Participate] 1) Pick up a stamp card at the reception desk of any participating facility. 2) Visit three or more participating facilities and collect stamps. 3) Fill in the required information on the stamp card and hand it to staff. 4) Exchange your stamp card for an original postcard. 5) Ten entrants will be selected by lottery to win a prize: an assortment of local specialties. * Winners will be notified by shipment of the prize. * Prize shipments are limited to addresses within Japan and are scheduled for mid-June or later. - Stamp Rally Participating Facilities - 1) Teshikaga Town Kussharo Kotan Ainu Museum (open every day during the event) ■ Address: 1-14, 1-jo-dori, Kussharo Shigai, Teshikaga Town ■ Phone: 015-484-2128 2) Taiho Sumo Memorial Museum (open every day during the event) ■ Address: 2-1-20, Kawayu Onsen, Teshikaga Town ■ Phone: 015-483-2924 3) Kawayu Visitor Center (closed: April 30, May 7) ■ Address: 2-2-6, Kawayu Onsen, Teshikaga Town ■ Phone: 015-483-4100 4) Teshikaga Town Furusato History Museum (closed: April 29–30, May 4–7) ■ Address: 3-3-1 Mashu, Teshikaga Town (inside Mashu Tourism and Culture Center) ■ Phone: 015-482-2368 Contact Information Teshikaga Town Board of Education, Social Education Division, Social Education Section Postal code 088-3211, 2-3-2 Chuo, Teshikaga Town, Kawakami District, Hokkaido Phone: 015-482-2948 https://masyuko.or.jp/news/2025gw_museum/...

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/...

Hoshitoge (Niigata Prefecture)2024.06.05 About 200 Paddy fields of various sizes Unfold on the slopes like fish scales, and it is a terraced rice field where a sea of clouds easily appears, and in 2022 it was certified as a "Tsunagu Terraced Rice Heritage" by the Ministry of Agriculture and Water. In May-June, Water enter the Paddy Field and become Water mirror. There is also a teahouse, which opens at dawn and you can enjoy freshly cooked rice balls.

National Government Park Alps Azumino Horigane-Hotaka area is reaching peak bloom for tulips and rapeseed flowers! A tulip field of 117 varieties totaling 320,000 bulbs and a five-million-strong carpet of yellow in the satoyama terraced-rice-field zone stretch as far as the eye can see. For details, visit the official website of National Government Park Alps Azumino https://www.azumino-koen.jp/horigane_hotaka/...

Photographed on April 7, 25. CAFE ANDON's Moke Chocolate and Strawberry Butter Sandwich. 🍓 On warm days, terrace seating is also good.

Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour 🌸 ⁠ The Amakusa West Coast is famed as one of the world’s premier sources of porcelain stone, Amakusa tōseki. Over five days, from Friday, May 2 to Tuesday, May 6, the 30th Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour will take place across seven kilns dotted along this scenic shore. This time we introduce one of the participating kilns, Mugen Kiln. Please take a look 💁‍♀️💁‍♂️💁 In upcoming posts we will also introduce the two kilns participating from Amakusa Town! 🌸 Mugen Kiln Mugen Kiln is the creative studio where potter Seiko Tanaka, who once aspired to be a poet, nurtures her distinctive artistic vision. Inspired by poetry and the arts, her pieces serve as everyday tableware while carrying the presence of true works of art. Tanaka’s unique motifs, born of her deep knowledge of earthenware and mingei folk crafts, give each piece a sense of story and message. Her work gently sparks the imagination of whoever holds it and leaves a lingering, mysterious afterglow. Mugen Kiln’s vessels speak in quiet tones, each quietly infused with Tanaka’s sensibility and poetic spirit. 📍 Mugen Kiln 588-1 Shirakio, Reihoku, Amakusa District, Kumamoto 863-2506 TEL: 080-1703-6886 Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour 🌸 During the event we will offer a variety of attractions, including exhibitions and sales of new works and special discount sales. Please take this opportunity to visit, enjoy the beautiful Amakusa ceramics from each kiln, and take in the wonderful scenery of the Amakusa West Coast. Two stamp rallies run at the same time! * Digital stamp rally eligible for Kumamoto Health Points 📱 * Stamp rally to win products from your chosen kiln (entry forms are available at each kiln 📃) Period Five days from Friday, May 2, 2025 to Tuesday, May 6, 2025 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM Venues (Five kilns in Reihoku) Uchida Sarayama-yaki, Koubou Kaze, Mugen Kiln, Tenjiku Kiln, Unshuu Kiln (Two kilns in Amakusa Town) Takahamayaki Jubou Kiln, Amakusa Karatsu Juro Kiln Inquiries: Secretariat of the Amakusa Porcelain Stone Research and Development Promotion Council (inside Reihoku Town Hall, Commerce, Industry and Tourism Division) TEL: 0969-35-3332

Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour 🌸 ⁠ The Amakusa West Coast is famous as one of the world’s leading sources of porcelain raw material, Amakusa porcelain stone. Using seven scattered kilns along this coastline as venues, the 30th Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour will run for five days from Friday, May 2 to Tuesday, May 6. Introducing one of the participating kilns this time: Unshu Kiln! 🌸 Unshu Kiln Tomioka, Reihoku Town. Unshu Kiln sits by the sea that locals fondly call the West Sea. The kiln owner, Mr. Miyoshi, practices pottery here. Unshu Kiln’s unique technique presses wild flowers and grasses into clay to transfer their patterns, capturing the breath of nature directly on the vessels. The simple, gentle pieces blend quietly into daily life and add a calm joy to ordinary moments. Friendly conversations with Mr. Miyoshi are one of the pleasures of visiting. Among the old photos on display, you can even see Mr. Miyoshi’s father-in-law taking part in the shark fishery once active in Tomioka, known as fuka-gari. During the Spring Kiln Tour, vendors will sell local agricultural products, and stalls offering antiques and succulent plants will also appear. Enjoy a relaxed time with the gentle air of the West Sea. 📍 Unshu Kiln 2829 Tomioka, Reihoku Town, Amakusa District, Kumamoto 863-2507 TEL: 0969-35-0945 Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour 🌸 During the event we will present new works for sale and special discount sales, among other attractions. Please take this opportunity to visit and enjoy the beautiful Amakusa porcelain from each kiln along with the splendid scenery of the Amakusa West Coast. Two stamp rallies run at the same time! * Digital stamp rally eligible for Kumamoto Health Points📱 * Stamp rally to win products from your chosen kiln (entry forms are available at each kiln📃) Period Five days from Friday, May 2, 2025 to Tuesday, May 6, 2025 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Venues (Five kilns in Reihoku Town) Uchida Sarayama-yaki, Kobo Kaze, Mugen Kiln, Tenjiku Kiln, Unshu Kiln (Two kilns in Amakusa Town) Takahama-yaki Jubou Kiln, Amakusa Karatsu Juro Kiln Inquiries: Amakusa Porcelain Stone Research and Development Promotion Council Secretariat (inside Reihoku Town Hall, Commerce and Tourism Division) TEL: 0969-35-3332

Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour 🌸 The Amakusa West Coast is famed as one of the world’s premier sources of the porcelain raw material Amakusa porcelain stone. Against this backdrop, seven kilns across the area will open their doors for the 30th Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour, running for five days from Friday, May 2 to Tuesday, May 6. Here is an introduction to one participating kiln, Tenjiku Kiln! Please have a look 💁‍♀️💁‍♂️💁 🌸 Tenjiku Kiln Tucked away in the mountains of Kobaba in Tororo, Reihoku, Tenjiku Kiln sits quietly in a peaceful setting. The kiln owner, Mr. Sumida, brings a warm sense of humor, and the many cats that greet visitors create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Drawing hints from Mr. Sumida’s everyday life, the kiln produces freely conceived vessels whose shapes and colors show distinctive personalities. They blend gently into daily life. The pottery classes held weekly attract many regulars, making Tenjiku Kiln a warm place rooted in the local community. The pottery, the people, and the cats alike all convey a friendly, comforting charm. 📍 Tenjiku Kiln 6121 Tororo, Reihoku, Amakusa District, Kumamoto 863-2611 TEL: 0969-36-0860 Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour 🌸 During the event you can enjoy new work exhibitions and sales, special discount offers, and other activities. Take this chance to visit and appreciate the beautiful Amakusa ceramics from each kiln against the stunning scenery of the Amakusa West Coast. Two stamp rallies run concurrently! * A digital stamp rally eligible for Kumamoto Health Points 📱 * A stamp rally with a chance to win items from your chosen kiln (entry forms are available at each kiln 📃) Period Five days from Friday, May 2, 2025 to Tuesday, May 6, 2025, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM Venues (Five kilns in Reihoku) Uchida Sarayamayaki, Koubou Kaze, Mugen Kiln, Tenjiku Kiln, Unshu Kiln (Two kilns in Amakusa Town) Takahama-yaki Jubou Kiln, Amakusa Karatsu Juro Kiln Inquiries Amakusa Porcelain Stone Research and Development Promotion Council Secretariat (inside Reihoku Town Hall, Commerce and Tourism Division) TEL: 0969-35-3332

[Amakusa West Coast 🌸 Spring Kiln Tour Announcement] ⁠ The Amakusa West Coast, famed as one of the world’s premier sources of porcelain stone “Amakusa toseki,” will host the 30th Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour at seven scattered kilns from Friday, May 2 to Tuesday, May 6. Introducing one of the participating kilns this time: Kobo Kaze. Please take a look💁‍♀️💁‍♂️💁 🌸Kobo Kaze Kobo Kaze sits quietly amid the verdant nature of Reihoku Town. The workshop’s simple, warm aesthetic harmonizes with the natural beauty around it. The kiln owner, Mr. Hayashida, favors works produced by a carbonization firing technique that lines charcoal around the vessel during the main firing to create unique textures and tones. In recent years he has also focused on new Oribe pieces with rich green glazes, presenting tableware that is calm yet full of character. During the Spring Kiln Tour, you can also enjoy locally grown produce, woodworkers’ pieces, bamboo dragonfly crafts, sweets, and other items for sale, offering a chance to fully experience handiwork rooted in everyday life. Be sure to take in the fragrant scent of the trees and flowers that surround the workshop with all your senses. 📍Kobo Kaze 2915 Shiki, Reihoku Town, Amakusa District, Kumamoto 863-2503 TEL: 0969-35-2041 [Amakusa West Coast 🌸 Spring Kiln Tour] During the event we will feature new works for exhibition and sale, special discount offers, and various other activities. Please take this opportunity to visit and enjoy the beautiful Amakusa ceramics from each kiln and the stunning scenery of the Amakusa West Coast. Two stamp rallies run simultaneously! * A digital stamp rally eligible for Kumamoto Health Points📱 * A stamp rally that gives you a chance to win items from your chosen kiln (entry forms are available at each kiln📃) [Period] Five days from Friday, May 2, 2025 to Tuesday, May 6, 2025 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM [Venues] (Five kilns in Reihoku Town) Uchida Sarayama-yaki, Kobo Kaze, Mugen-gama, Tenjiku-gama, Unshu-gama (Two kilns in Amakusa Town) Takahama-yaki Jubogama, Amakusa Karatsu Juro-gama [Inquiries] Secretariat, Amakusa Porcelain Stone Research and Development Promotion Council (inside Reihoku Town Hall, Commerce and Tourism Division) TEL: 0969-35-3332

Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour 🌸 ⁠ The Amakusa West Coast is famed as one of the world’s premier sources of porcelain raw material, Amakusa Pottery Stone. Against this backdrop, seven kilns dotted across the area will open their doors for the 30th Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour, held for five days from Friday, May 2 to Tuesday, May 6. We will share introductions to the participating kilns, so please take a look 💁‍♀️ 🌸 Uchida Sarayama Ware In the Meiji era, Naohiko Kiyama began mining with advice from Yukichi Fukuzawa, laying the foundations for the pottery here. In 1970, the third generation, Katsuhiko Kiyama, discovered an Edo-period kiln site and reopened production. Subsequent excavations revealed a history of porcelain production that began around 1650 and continued for about a century. Carrying that history into the present is Uchida Sarayama Ware. Now in the hands of the fourth generation, Kentaro Kiyama, the kilns still quarry Amakusa Pottery Stone and Shiki clay themselves. From materials nurtured by Amakusa’s land, they craft each piece with care. The lineup pairs traditional techniques with a modern sensibility. For this Spring Kiln Tour, you can expect seasonal treasures such as pieces decorated with raised itchin patterns that convey three-dimensional texture, and charming May picture plates made for Children’s Day. Take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of vessels shaped by Amakusa’s history and landscape. 📍 Uchida Sarayama Ware 554-1 Uchida, Reihoku, Amakusa District, Kumamoto Prefecture 863-2505 TEL: 0969-35-0222 Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour 🌸 During the event we will offer a variety of attractions, including exhibitions of new works and special discount sales. Please visit and enjoy the beautiful Amakusa porcelains from each kiln along with the splendid scenery of the Amakusa West Coast. Two stamp rallies will run simultaneously! * A digital stamp rally eligible for Kumamoto Health Points 📱 * A stamp rally where you can win products from your chosen kilns (entry forms are available at each kiln 📃) Period Five days from Friday, May 2, 2025 to Tuesday, May 6, 2025, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM Venues (Reihoku: 5 kilns) Uchida Sarayama Ware, Kobo Kaze, Mugen Kiln, Tenjiku Kiln, Unshu Kiln (Amakusa: 2 kilns) Takahama Ware Juho Kiln, Amakusa Karatsu Jurogama Inquiries: amakusa_pottery_stone_research_and_development_promotion_council_office (inside reihoku_town_hall Commerce and Tourism Division) TEL: 0969-35-3332

The nemophila field in 138 Tower Park is 🤤 in full bloom This is a nemophila field Located in in Aichi Prefecture. Flowers can be enjoyed here regardless of the season. It's even better 🤤 if you put the 138 tower, which is a symbol

#001 Hello! This is the Tsunocho Tourism Association. Tsunocho belongs to Koyu District in Miyazaki Prefecture and sits in the prefecture’s central region. To the east lies the Hyuga-nada Sea, and to the west stretch the ridges of MtOsuzuyama, one of Japan’s 200 famous mountains. Known as the “town of mountains, waterfalls, and fruit,” it’s rich not only in nature but also in agricultural, livestock, and marine products. On the Tsunocho Tourism Association account, we’ll share information to make you want to visit Tsunocho, so please follow along! For our first post, we’ll introduce what kind of town Tsunocho is, the key points we want to convey, and a bit about the Tsunocho Tourism Association. Access to Tsunocho By plane and by car Haneda to Miyazaki: about 1.5 hours; from Fukuoka: about 4 hours Itami to Miyazaki: about 1 hour; from Kumamoto: about 3 hours Fukuoka to Miyazaki: about 40 minutes; from Kagoshima: about 2.5 hours From Miyazaki Airport By JR Nippō Main Line to tsuno station: about 1 hour By car via the Higashi-Kyushu Expressway to Tsuno IC: about 1 hour 10 minutes What kind of town is Tsunocho? First, here’s an introduction to Tsunocho. Tsunocho has a total population of about 9,300 (April 2025) and is a town with very active agricultural and livestock production. The town is also working to revitalize the fishing industry through an onshore aquaculture initiative called the Fisheries Dream Future Project. Tsunocho preserves many historic sites, including the venerable Hyuga Province Ichinomiya Tsuno Shrine, listed in the Engishiki register of shrine names, and the Akagi Family Residence, a valuable house that served as lodging for feudal lords and government officials in the Edo period. Every year on August 1 and 2 the town holds its largest summer event, the Tsuno Shrine Summer Festival, when a golden mikoshi and four neighborhood taiko floats parade through town. Visitors come not only from within the town but also from other cities and prefectures. Town tree: ginkgo. Town flower: Osuzu winter orchid. Town bird: Japanese white-eye. A brief history of Tsunocho Next, a short look at Tsunocho’s history. The modern Tsunocho formed in 1889 (Meiji 22) when Tsuno Town and Kawakita Village merged to create Tsuno Village. Thirty-one years later, in 1920 (Taisho 9), Tsuno was established as a town, and in 2020 (Reiwa 2) it celebrated the 100th anniversary of its town status. The old village name Kawakita still appears today as a ward name. Tsunocho sightseeing spots Next are Tsunocho’s sightseeing spots. The town has many famous and lesser-known attractions. Here are two carefully selected highlights. 1. Hyuga Province Ichinomiya Tsuno Shrine Affectionately called Ichinomiya Shrine by locals and indispensable to telling the Miyazaki myths, Hyuga Province Ichinomiya Tsuno Shrine exudes a solemn atmosphere and feels powerful. Legend says that six years before Emperor Jimmu’s accession, he stopped in this area while moving eastward, prayed for national peace, safe seas, and lasting military fortune, and enshrined the deities here. The shrine’s principal deity, Ōkuninushi no Mikoto, is associated with blessings such as fertility, because he took many wives and fathered many children; recovery from illness, due to establishing medical practices and helping many people; and business prosperity, among other benefits. 2. Roadside Station Tsuno Opened in 2013 to help revitalize a town worn down by the 2010 foot-and-mouth disease outbreak, Roadside Station Tsuno showcases the agricultural town’s proud selection of fresh vegetables, fruits, and seafood. The station also sells original local products made from regional ingredients. The most popular item, the tomato twisted fry, draws repeat customers from both inside and outside the prefecture. Packed with Tsuno’s charms, Roadside Station Tsuno is well worth a visit. Tsunocho specialties and gourmet foods Next are Tsunocho’s specialty products and local cuisine. The town offers numerous specialty agricultural and livestock products. Here are three highlights. 1. Tomatoes Tsunocho offers an ideal environment for growing tomatoes. Tomatoes grown here benefit from the Osuzu Mountain Range’s water, the sea breeze from the Hyuga-nada Sea, and a mild climate, producing exceptional flavor. The town grows many varieties, including the much-sought-after Nigo 25 and the honey-sweet Furutika, so comparing varieties is a delight. 2. Grapes Tsunocho produces more than 30 grape varieties, including Shine Muscat, Sunny Rouge, and Kyoho. Recently, a variety called Suzuka, sometimes called the black muscat, has attracted attention for its refreshing muscat-like taste and aroma when you bite into it. 3. Tsuno Wine Speaking of grapes, Tsuno Wine is made from the grapes introduced above. Committed to using 100% grapes from Osuzu (around Tsunocho), these wines express the local terroir. A rosé made from the Campbell Early grape was selected for Wine Report’s “World’s Top 100 Wines” in 2004, and many other Tsuno wines have won domestic and international awards. Tsuno wines are so delicious they attract repeat visitors from abroad as well as within Japan. Tsunocho Tourism Association Finally, about our tourism association. We use social media to promote Tsunocho and handle everything from preparing to running local events. Recently, we have offered rentals for Osuzu Campground on MtOsuzuyama and electric bicycles. Through Cool Japan initiatives, we work to share Tsunocho’s charms and provide useful information to help visitors enjoy their stay. We appreciate your support!

Photographed on April 7, 25. This is a hot sandwich of CAFE ANDON's stick chicken.

Photographed on April 7, 25. During the cherry blossom season, you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing from CAFE ANDON's terrace seats.

Fujiwara Palace Ruins in Nara Prefecture Due to work, I usually only have one Vacation a week on Weekdays, and most of the time I shoot when there are no people, but I can take a Sunday off only once a month, and it is a popular Spot Visit for family trips, so it was difficult to shoot like this. I gave instructions to my wife on my cell phone from quite a distance and waited for people to disappear, but I clicked the shutter at the moment when people stopped streaming more than I had imagined. I wanted to shoot in a horizontal composition, but I shot in a vertical position because people were reflected.

The ruins of Fujiwara Palace in Nara Prefecture I finally came to the place I wanted to visit and see, and it was Sunday, so I could imagine it to some extent, but it was a very popular Spot for tourists from overseas.

Photographed on April 7, 25. It is a boat trip on the Shingashi River behind the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine. The cherry blossoms fell and a flower raft was formed.

Good evening. This is the Shakotan Tourism Association. It's been quite a while since I posted in February, but I would like to upload Shakotan Tourist Information little by little from this month. From April, it has been possible to pass to the tip of Cape Kamui. Cape Kamui has a fixed admission time, so please pay attention to the time in advance. For details, please see the Shakotan Tourism Association website. From April 25, the Water Observation Boat New Shakotan has also resumed business. Shakotan blues soft serve ice cream has also started at the shop in the Shakotan Town Tourist Center, so please come to Shakotan. We look forward to seeing you!