Today (July 10) I covered a hop harvest 😆 It was my first time seeing this year’s hop field... and it was spectacular✨✨ Straight-reaching vines, healthy dark green leaves, and clusters of hops hanging like little bells…!! “It’s a shame this view will be gone after today!” I said as I gazed with the grower 👀 With preparations complete, it was time to harvest 💪 There were so many cones that even removing the supporting wires was a struggle 💦 We filled bags with the harvested hops, and I worried they might not all fit on the truck we were loading back with today 😂 These hops will be processed into beer with a fresh, lively aroma 🍺 I tasted last year’s brew too — it had a refreshing scent and went down easy 😆👍 I can’t wait to try this year’s beer 😍

Harajiri Falls Boat Tour Why not take a raft boat and cruise the plunge pool of Harajiri Falls in Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture? You can experience Harajiri Falls with your whole body. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery that you can only see up close. Date and Time Saturday, July 19, 2025 – Monday, July 21, 2025 (national holiday) Daily from 10:00 to 16:00 (departures every 30 minutes) Location Harajiri Falls (410 Harajiri, Ogata, Bungo-Ono) ▶ Meeting time / Please arrive at the top of the stairs down to the falls 30 minutes before your reservation. Fee 3,500 yen per person Eligibility Ages 3 and up (preschool children must be accompanied by a guardian) What to Bring Shoes that can get wet, towel How to Apply Please check the link to apply. Other Information The tour may be canceled due to weather or rising river levels. If there is availability on the day, we can accommodate walk-ins without a reservation. We accept reservations outside the event as well (see the application form above for details). Event Inquiries Bebepu Co., Ltd., Bungo-Ono Office × South Wave (Contact: Ono) Phone 090-6896-5296 ■■■ Access to central Bungo-Ono ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Kyushu, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250708event-ogata/...

The hot days continue, and there are few people for the purpose of walking around the Castle Town ... In the summer, Kitsuki enjoys marine sports, the campsite is crowded, and the Castle Town is a little Vacation. Meanwhile, I was also and curious about how hot it was, and in the morning ... Even though it was cool, I took a walk around the town at 33 degrees Celsius. Today, I'm posting with a slightly rough feeling. Tea shop to cool off, flower shop with flowers in the heat of the past few days ... And such? If you walk a little, you can stop by the ice cream shop of your grandmother, who is over 90 years old, and if you take a peek at the shared kitchen space with House guests, Shokudo if you look at it, the daily lunch is an omelet 💚. The heat was terrible, but it was good to see all kinds of people, and it was good to see good things such as a nostalgic mailbox that had been repainted beautifully before I knew it. I will post it separately to everyone. Please be careful of this heat.

On July 5, 2025, hydrangea deadheading took place around Fukkoji Temple in Asaji Town, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture. About 50 people took part and removed spent hydrangea blooms from the temple grounds and nearby areas. In about two hours, the precincts were transformed into a sea of green. Thank you to everyone who participated. May beautiful hydrangeas bloom again next year. ❚ About Fukkoji Temple The bas-relief Buddhist statue carved into the rock on the temple grounds, including its pedestal, reaches roughly 11 meters in height and ranks among Japan’s largest rock-carved Buddhas. The enormous central figure is Fudo Myoo (the Immovable Wisdom King). Fudo Myoo typically appears in a wrathful form, but years of wind and rain have softened the features of this carving into a rounder, gentler expression. Though large in scale, the figure has a very approachable presence. Fukkoji is also known as “Hydrangea Temple” for the many hydrangeas planted there. During the rainy season, visitors can enjoy abundant hydrangea blooms alongside the rock-carved Buddha. The hydrangeas are cared for by the temple and local community. ■■■ Access to central Bungo-Ono City ■■■ About a three-hour drive from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About a two-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About a one hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About a one hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Kyushu, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

🍄 July 7 is "Dried Shiitake Day" 🍄 To celebrate, we will hold the "Dried Shiitake Fair" on Saturday, July 5! 📍Venue: Morokko House parking lot 🕘Time: 9:00–16:00 ✨Event highlights✨ - Freshly grilled! Complimentary dried shiitake - All-you-can-stuff dried shiitake and wood ear mushrooms! - Tasting of Morotsuka Village oolong tea "Seikomasucha" 🍵 - Local specialties and summer vegetables will also be on sale 🍅🥬 This is an event everyone from children to adults can enjoy! Come with your family and friends and join us 😊

Meeting the "Flower That Brings Happiness," Kirengeshoma — Summer Hikes up Mt. Kurodake Around Obon, the elusive Kirengeshoma begins to bloom quietly in the mountains 🌼 Listed as Vulnerable (Category II) on the Ministry of the Environment’s Red List and thrust into the spotlight by an NHK morning drama, this flower is said in local lore to bring happiness to those who see it. Kirengeshoma once grew in large colonies around Morotsuka Village and Mt. Kurodake, but its numbers have drastically declined due to deer browsing. Now, it survives only in limited areas where local residents continue conservation efforts. Mt. Kurodake is designated an Important Habitat by Miyazaki Prefecture, and besides Kirengeshoma it shelters many rare Kyushu mountain plants and wildlife, making it a precious natural treasure. On this hiking tour, local guides will accompany you, pointing out rare plants and offering nature interpretation so you can fully savor the rich forest. 🟡 Tour Overview: Mt. Kurodake Hike 📅 Date and Time: Saturday and Sunday, August 23–24, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM 📍 Meeting Point: Obarai Community Center (escort from Shiitake no Yakata 21 available) 🎒 Eligibility: Ages 3 and up (minimum 4 participants to run / maximum 10) 💰 Fee: Adults ¥5,000 / Children ¥4,000 (lunch and guide fee included) 📝 Registration Deadline: Saturday, August 16 Hike Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ (suitable for beginners to intermediate hikers) 🌱 Please wear comfortable clothing and hiking boots or non-slip athletic shoes. A special summer day to meet the elusive flower. We look forward to your participation!

Fukoji Hydrangeas ❚ Bloom status as of June 27, 2025 Fukoji Temple in Asaichi, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture. The hydrangeas overall have passed their peak. You can now see flowers beginning to wither and colors starting to fade. Oita Prefecture has announced that the rainy season appears to have ended. Hydrangea deadheading will take place on July 5, 2025, so hydrangeas can be seen through July 4. Many visitors came to Fukoji again this year. Thank you very much. [Location] Kamiozuka, Asaichi, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture [Access] About 10 minutes by car from JR Asaichi Station [Parking] Available (free) [Toilets] Available ❚ Fukoji Temple The cliff-carved Buddhist statues on the temple grounds, including their base, measure about 11 meters high and are among Japan’s largest cliff carvings. The central giant figure is Fudo Myoo. Fudo Myoo is usually depicted with an angry expression, but years of wind and rain have rounded and softened this carving’s features. Though large, the figure has a very approachable presence. Fukoji is also called the Hydrangea Temple because so many hydrangeas are planted there. During the rainy season you can enjoy a profusion of hydrangea blooms alongside the cliff carving. The hydrangeas are cared for by the temple and local community. ■■■ Access from central Bungo-Ono City ■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Tourism and recommended spots in Kyushu, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Geosite Beautification Volunteer Recruitment ❚ Event held on July 5, 2025 At Bukkoji Temple, one of the geosites (points of interest) in Oita’s Bungo-Ono Geopark, volunteers will trim spent hydrangea blooms around the temple grounds. We are seeking volunteers to help. Would you join us in trimming the spent flowers? [Date and Time] Saturday, July 5, 2025, 7:00–9:00 Registration accepted until 8:00. *The event will be postponed in case of rain. If postponed, the city hall website will announce it by the day before the event.* [Registration and Meeting Place] Bukkoji Temple First Parking Lot (Kamiozuka, Aoji Town, Bungo-Ono City) [Tasks] Trimming spent hydrangea blooms *Volunteers will work for at least one hour sometime between 7:00 and 9:00.* *A commemorative gift will be given to participants.* *Tools will be lent, but supplies are limited. If you own pruning shears or hedge shears, please bring them if possible.* [Contact] Oita Bungo-Ono Geopark Promotion Council Phone: 0974-22-4089 ■■■ Access to central Bungo-Ono City ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Kyushu, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Bungo-Ono City ■■■■■■■■■■■■ https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250618event-asaji/...

Relax at Kurunconne 😌🌿 Today I stopped by Kurunconne 🤗✨ (Yes, I was working properly!) For the meeting I ordered a craft cola and a Mix Berry smoothie 😚🍹 Both are a treat to look at 😆 The craft cola is different from regular cola — it gives you that “I’m drinking something good for my body!” feeling, with no guilt. It has a nice spice kick and is perfect for the season when you want something refreshing ✨ The Mix Berry smoothie offers natural sweetness from the ingredients alone… it satisfied both my thirst and a little hunger — a blissful drink 🤤 There are many varieties, so it’s fun to try different ones 💫 They also offer light meals and desserts, and takeout is available 🥪✨ The shop has lots of manga and hosts many healing events every day ✨ I tried a tarot-like reading where you pick one card from 100 based on the theme “for this version of myself…,” and the message I received was very uplifting and gave me energy 💪❤️‍🔥 They sell fun goods and body-friendly foods, so there are endless ways to enjoy the place 🤗🎶 Be sure to check out Kurunconne’s account too 🙌 kurun→https://www.instagram.com/kurun2424/... conne→https://www.instagram.com/conne.jp/...

Fukoji Hydrangeas ❚ Bloom status as of June 24, 2025 Fukoji sits in Asaji Town, Bungoono City. It is also famous as a hydrangea sightseeing spot. Overall, the hydrangeas have just passed their peak. Some of the earlier flowers have begun to wither. This year there are fewer blooms than usual, but the later-blooming flowers are beautifully open. We will report on the bloom status as it changes. Location: Kamiotsuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture Access: about a 10-minute drive from JR Asaji Station Parking: available (free) Restrooms: available ❚ Fukoji The cliff-carved Buddha on the temple grounds, including its pedestal, measures about 11 meters tall, making it one of Japan’s largest cliff Buddhas. The central, enormous figure is Fudo Myoo, the Immovable Wisdom King. Fudo Myoo normally appears fierce, with an angry expression, but years of wind and rain have rounded its features into a gentle, softened face. Though large, this Fudo Myoo has a very approachable presence. Fukoji is also known as “Hydrangea Temple” because so many hydrangeas are planted there. During the rainy season you can see numerous hydrangea blooms together with the cliff Buddha. The hydrangeas are cared for by the temple and local residents. ■■■ Access from central Bungoono City ■■■ From JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture: about a 3-hour drive From JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture: about a 2-hour drive From JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture: about a 1 hour 20 minute drive From JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture: about a 1 hour 20 minute drive ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing tourism and recommended spots in Kyushu, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Hydrangeas are beginning to bloom Hydrangeas, the flower that symbolizes the rainy season, are starting to bloom across Gokasecho 🤗✨ (Photo: Kuwanochi area) From pale blue to deep blue, pink and purple… Their round shapes draped in refreshing colors look utterly charming 🥰 The lacecap hydrangeas also show a delicate beauty, like quiet sparklers 😌 We saw many bushes that haven’t bloomed yet, so they should continue to delight us for a while ✨ Rain is forecast again from tomorrow, but isn’t viewing hydrangeas dotted with raindrops a rather poetic pleasure 😆? This season can easily bring people down, so let’s find small joys and keep our spirits up 💪✨

Fukkoji Hydrangeas ❚ Bloom Update as of June 20, 2025 Fukkoji Temple sits in Asaji Town, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture. It is also famous as a hydrangea sightseeing spot. The hydrangeas are now just past their peak viewing period. This year there are fewer blooms than usual, but they are blooming beautifully. Temperatures exceeded 30°C several days this week, so some hydrangeas look tired, but the later-blooming ones are flourishing. We will keep posting bloom updates. Location: Kamiozuka, Asaji Town, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture Access: About 10 minutes by car from JR Asaji Station Parking: Available (free) Restrooms: Available ❚ Fukkoji Temple The bas-relief Buddha carved into the temple grounds, including its pedestal, stands about 11 meters tall and is one of Japan’s largest cliff carvings. The central colossal figure is Fudo Myoo (the Immovable Wisdom King). Fudo Myoo normally appears with an angry expression, but years of wind and rain have rounded his features into a gentle face. Despite his size, this Fudo Myoo has a very approachable presence. Fukkoji is also known as “Hydrangea Temple” because so many hydrangeas are planted there. During the rainy season you can see many hydrangea blooms alongside the bas-relief Buddha. The hydrangeas are cared for by the temple and local community. ■■■ Access to central Bungo-Ono City ■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Kyushu, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Ume Juice and Umeboshi Making On a crisp summer day today (June 19), the red, white, and pink azaleas welcomed us cheerfully at Kuraokakurara. The eldest children from Kuraoka Nursery School and first graders from Kuraoka Elementary gathered to make ume juice and umeboshi.🤗 The children had harvested plenty of fresh ume at the Kuraoka district orchard the day before.😳💕 Under the guidance of the neighborhood’s “ume expert,” who lives in the Kuraoka area, everyone packed the prepared ume into jars. They will take the jars back to school, turn them over every day, and let them develop until the juices rise.💪 When the red shiso season arrives, they will move on to the next step.💡 It sounds delightful.🥰 It seems the children, now junior ume experts, also took some ume home, so they will likely enjoy processing them at home while passing on what they learned to their families.🤩✨

Fukoji Hydrangeas ❚ Bloom Report as of June 16, 2025 Fukoji sits in Asaji Town, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture. It is also famous as a hydrangea sightseeing spot. The hydrangeas are currently at their best. This year there are fewer flowers than usual, but each one blooms beautifully. Some of the earliest blossoms have begun to wither slightly. We will update the bloom status as it changes. Location: Kamiozuka, Asaji Town, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture Access: About a 10-minute drive from JR Asaji Station Parking: Available (free) Restrooms: Available ❚ Fukoji The cliff-carved Buddha on the temple grounds, including its base, stands about 11 meters tall and is one of Japan’s largest cliff Buddhas. The central, giant figure is Fudo Myoo. Fudo Myoo usually appears with an angry expression, but years of wind and rain have softened this cliff Buddha’s features into a gentle, rounded face. Although large, the Fudo Myoo here has a very approachable presence. Fukoji is also called “Hydrangea Temple” for good reason, with many hydrangeas planted around the grounds. During the rainy season, visitors can see numerous hydrangea blooms alongside the cliff Buddha. The hydrangeas are cared for by the temple and local community. ■■■ Access to central Bungo-Ono City ■■■ From JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture: about a 3-hour drive From JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture: about a 2-hour drive From JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture: about a 1 hour 20 minute drive From JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture: about a 1 hour 20 minute drive ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Kyushu, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

🌟The Hotaru no Yakata has been upgraded and is reopening with a fresh look🌟 The Hotaru no Sato Vacation Village Hotaru no Yakata in Kitagawa Town will finally reopen after renovations on April 1, 2025🎉 ✨What has changed? ✔ The exhibition room, training room, restrooms, and showers have been renovated! ✔ The entrance has been transformed into a lawn plaza🌿 ✔ New large playground equipment has arrived, much to the delight of children🎠 🎒Lots of hands-on experiences! You can get information about the UNESCO Geopark and outdoor activities and even try simulated experiences like canoeing, mountain trekking, and nature observation✨ With a nursing room and shower facilities, families can feel at ease😊 📣 And…the highlight of this renovation! Nobeoka City’s NPO Himuka Kando Taiken World (Nobe☆Sta) manages the facility as the designated administrator✨Using their expertise, they have launched authentic experience programs led by outdoor specialists! This is a hub facility for the Sobo-Takame-Okue UNESCO Global Geopark and it serves as the central spot for outdoor tourism in Nobeoka City Learn, experience, and connect with nature── it has been reborn as a new center for immersive experiences🌱 🏕 Overnight stays are available! Campsites start at ¥2,200 per night Bike rentals and training room use are also well equipped, making it perfect for training camps in nature♪ 🚗 Convenient access! A 5-minute drive from Kitagawa IC and a 5-minute walk from Kitagawa Station! 📞 For inquiries and reservations, contact Hotaru no Yakata TEL: 0982-27-4740 Enjoy everything nature, learning, and play have to offer at Hotaru no Yakata—let’s go💨 Bring the whole family for a visit💚✨ NPO Himuka Kando Taiken World (Nobe☆Sta) http://en.nobe-star.com// Contact http://en.nobe-star.com/contact...

This photo was taken from the Ferris Car when I went to Huis Ten Bosch. I took the place where the illuminations started just as the sun began to set. The contrast between the red color of the tower and the blue of the river is Beautiful.

Fukoji Temple Hydrangeas ❚ Bloom Status as of June 13, 2025 Fukoji Temple stands in Asaji Town, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture. It is famous as a hydrangea sightseeing spot. The hydrangeas are currently about 70–80% in bloom. They should reach peak bloom this weekend. This year there are fewer flowers than usual, but each one blooms beautifully. We will update the bloom status as it progresses. Location: Kamiozuka, Asaji Town, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture Access: About a 10-minute drive from JR Asaji Station Parking: Available (free) Toilets: Available ❚ Fukoji Temple The stone-carved Buddha on the temple grounds, including its base, measures about 11 meters tall and is one of Japan’s largest cliff carvings. The central, giant figure is Fudo Myoo. Fudo Myoo usually appears with an angry expression, but years of wind and rain have softened this carving into a rounded, gentle face. Though large, this Fudo Myoo has a very approachable presence. Fukoji is also known as Hydrangea Temple because so many hydrangeas are planted there. During the rainy season you can see numerous hydrangea blooms alongside the cliff carving. The planted hydrangeas are cared for by the temple and local residents. ■■■ Access to Bungo-Ono City Center ■■■ From JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture: about a 3-hour drive From JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture: about a 2-hour drive From JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture: about a 1 hour 20 minute drive From JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture: about a 1 hour 20 minute drive ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Kyushu, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Fukoji Hydrangeas ❚ Bloom Status as of June 10, 2025 Fukoji Temple is in Asaji Town, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture. It is also famous as a hydrangea sightseeing spot. The hydrangeas are currently about 50–60% in bloom. Blooming has progressed considerably. We will update the bloom status as it changes. [Location] Kamiozuka, Asaji Town, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture [Access] About 10 minutes by car from JR Asaji Station [Parking] Available (free) [Toilets] Available ❚ Fukoji Temple The bas-relief Buddha carved into the temple grounds, including its pedestal, measures about 11 meters in height, making it one of Japan’s largest bas-relief Buddhas. The enormous central figure is Fudo Myoo (Acala). Fudo Myoo is typically depicted with an angry expression, but years of exposure to wind and rain have softened this bas-relief into a rounder, gentler face. Though large, the Fudo Myoo here feels very approachable. Fukoji is also called “Hydrangea Temple” because so many hydrangeas are planted there. During the rainy season, you can see many hydrangea blooms alongside the bas-relief Buddha. The hydrangeas planted there are cared for by the temple and local community. ■■■ Access to central Bungo-Ono City ■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Kyushu, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

The 38th Meisui Hakusangawa Firefly Festival On June 7, 2025, the "Meisui Hakusangawa Firefly Festival" took place at Inazumi Underwater Cave Square. At the festival, visitors enjoyed the powerful drumming of Toyuu Taiko and the stirring dances of Okuhata Kagura. The Hakusangawa Firefly Festival is a warm, community-led event that continues out of locals' desire to celebrate and enliven the area. The day ended with a lively fan dance performed by local residents, drawing a large crowd. After the festival, many attendees stayed to enjoy firefly watching. Access to central Bungoono City About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture □□□□□□□□□□□□□□□□ Tourism and recommended spots in Kyushu, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture □□□□□□□□□□□□□□□□

Today, we will take a walk ☔ around the rainy Castle Town Kitsuki The rainy season has begun, and there is a heavy rain warning today. In the meantime, I guided a small group customer from Australia and took a walk in the rain in the Kitadai Samurai Residence Street. Here are just a few places you can enjoy on a rainy day. Please take a look at the scenery that can only be seen in Kitsuki City, and can only be seen on rainy days. 【Isoya Residence】The culture of hospitality seen in the Lord's resting place At the top of the slope of the accounting hall is the "Rakujutei" of the imperial residence set up as a resting place for the lords. Three of the rooms, the entrance room, the guest room, and the tea room, still remain as the Isoya residence. The architecture was built in the thirteenth year of culture (1816). After that, Kato Yogoemon, who became the owner, repeatedly expanded and renovated it, and it took its current form. Just as the role of Rakujutei was "rest", "healing" hospitality is prepared everywhere in the mansion. The garden is the best representation of this. The view of the garden, which can be seen from every room in the mansion, shows the Commitment and care of this mansion. Each window frame reflects a different garden scene, and the stylish arrangements extend to the hand water bowls and Ranma. The location of the paving stones placed in the garden, the arrangement and type of trees that have been fully calculated. Throughout the mansion, there is a profound spirit that speaks to us over the past 200 years. 【Isoya Residence】 〒873-0001 大分県杵築市杵築211-1 TEL 0978-63-1488 business hours 10:00~17:00 (Admission until 16:30) Closed Year-end and New Year holidays Entrance Fees Individuals: Adults 300 yen / Elementary and junior high school students 150 yen Groups: Adults 240 yen / Elementary and junior high school students 120 yen

[🌸 Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 🌸 Results Announcement] Thank you for waiting‼️ Here are the results of “Gokase Flower Viewing 2025” 🥳🎉 This time, in addition to followers of our association’s Instagram account, winners were decided by votes submitted via Google Form and by general voting at four polling stations set up around Gokasecho 👏✨ Amazingly, we received a total of 151 votes 😳❗ Thank you to everyone who voted 🙇‍♀️💕 We will send a “Voter Prize” to 10 people selected by lottery from among those who voted ✨ We have already contacted the winners 💡 Please note that the notification of winning serves as the official announcement of the winners 🙏 Now, here are the results 👇👇👇 [🥇 Gold Prize] @reoron001219 (photo 2) [🥈 Silver Prize] @_yuta610 (photo 3) [🥉 Bronze Prize] @fowafuwarin5 (photo 4) @sakai_0808 (photo 5) This time, two entrants shared the Bronze Prize 🎉 Each entry was stunningly beautiful and made us sigh in admiration 🥹✨ As always, we are simply amazed by everyone’s photography skills 😳❗ Also!! We are announcing the collaboration award with the Gokase Sakura Project organized by Gokase Secondary School (@saku_puro): the “Gokase Sakura Project Award” 🤩 👏 The winner is… [🌸 Gokase Sakura Project Award] @thusandleavis (photo 6) Congratulations to all the winners㊗️🥳🎉 And thank you truly to everyone who applied, voted, and participated😭❤️‍🔥 We’ll have a stretch of steady rain for a while, but hot summer will arrive soon 🎐☀️ Let’s cherish the changing seasons and enjoy the rain and heat alike 💪💕 We hope you’ll join our next event ✨ Thank you very much 🙇‍♀️🌸

Fukkoji Hydrangeas ❚ Bloom Status as of June 3, 2025 Fukkoji, located in Asaji Town, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture, is famous as a hydrangea sightseeing spot. The hydrangeas are currently about 40–50% in bloom. Flowering is progressing. The plants that bloomed early are showing beautiful flowers. We will announce updates on the bloom status as they come. [Location] Kamiotsuka, Asaji Town, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture [Access] About 10 minutes by car from JR Asaji Station [Parking] Available (free) [Toilets] Available ❚ Fukkoji The bas-relief Buddhist statue carved into the temple grounds, including its pedestal, stands at about 11 meters tall and is one of Japan’s largest rock-carved Buddhas. The central enormous figure is Fudo Myo-o. Fudo Myo-o typically appears in an angry form, but years of wind and rain have softened this carving into a round, gentle expression. Although it is a large Fudo Myo-o, it has a very approachable appearance. Fukkoji is also called Hydrangea Temple because so many hydrangeas are planted there. During the rainy season, you can see numerous hydrangea blooms alongside the rock-carved Buddha. The hydrangeas planted here are cared for by the temple and local residents. ■■■ Access to central Bungo-Ono City ■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Kyushu, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

SUP Experience Event in Tomioka 2025 Held✨ On Saturday, May 31, a safety prayer ceremony for a safe summer at sea and the SUP Experience Event in Tomioka 2025 took place at Tomioka Beach 👏 Blessed with good weather, all participants enjoyed stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on the day 🏖️ There’s nothing like the exhilaration of standing on a board and paddling across the sea! We plan to hold the event again next year, so be sure to join us 👍 Tomioka Beach, selected as one of the Ministry of the Environment’s Top 100 Clear Beaches, offers exceptionally transparent waters and makes a great sunset spot 🌅 Be sure to include it in your summer plans ❤️

Enjoy Ehime & Oita Tour Stamp Rally 2025 ❚ Period: June 1, 2025 – October 31, 2025 A digital stamp rally inviting you to visit roadside stations and tourist facilities in Ehime and Oita is now underway. Collect stamps at designated spots in Ehime Prefecture and Oita Prefecture, then enter a prize drawing for hotel vouchers and local product bundles based on the number of stamps you earn. We invite you to join this opportunity! [Event Period] Sunday, June 1, 2025 – Friday, October 31, 2025 [Locations] Roadside stations, tourist facilities, and other sites across Ehime and Oita — 51 locations in total *Please see the flyer for eligible facilities.* [Eligible facilities in Bungo-Ono City] ▶ Roadside Station Harajiri Falls ▶ Inazumi Underwater Cave ▶ Lodge Kiyokawa [Prizes] ▶ Special Prize (2 winners by lottery): Accommodation voucher worth 30,000 yen Eligibility: Visit 10 or more sites in each of Ehime and Oita and collect 30 stamps to apply ▶ Prize A (2 winners by lottery): Local products worth 10,000 yen Eligibility: Visit 5 or more sites in each of Ehime and Oita and collect 15 stamps to apply ▶ Prize B (10 winners by lottery): Local products worth 5,000 yen Eligibility: Visit 2 or more sites in each of Ehime and Oita and collect 7 stamps to apply ▶ Prize C (36 winners by lottery): Local products worth 2,500 yen Eligibility: Visit 1 or more sites in each of Ehime and Oita and collect 4 stamps to apply [How to Participate] Add the official LINE account as a friend (details on the flyer) Use GPS at eligible spots to collect stamps Collect stamps and apply for prizes [Organizer] Ehime–Oita Exchange Project Executive Committee, Tourism Exchange Subcommittee [Inquiries about the Stamp Rally] Ehime–Oita Exchange Project Executive Committee, Tourism Exchange Subcommittee Office (Oita City Tourism Division) Phone: 097-537-7043 ■■■ Access to central Bungo-Ono City ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Kyushu – Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250602info-bungoono/...

Fireflies are now at their best viewing season 🌌 Spots in Nobeoka City where you can enjoy fireflies include Kitagawa, Yoshino, and Maino Many locations seem to be reaching their peak viewing period✨ Let’s continue to protect this beautiful nature by observing proper manners while watching them😊 ◎Please avoid shining bright lights, littering, or damaging the natural environment. ◎Keep quiet so as not to disturb others nearby while viewing. ◎Do not use insect-repellent sprays at viewing sites; take precautions by wearing long sleeves instead. 🪄May the fireflies dancing in the night sky leave you with lasting memories.

Fresh green at Unoko Falls 🍃 It feels like May has flown by in no time 😅 Saturday, May 31 in Gokasecho was a delightfully clear day 🌞 At this time of year, Unoko Falls has plenty of water and brilliant fresh greenery ✨ I was soothed by birdsong, the sound of the water, and the breeze 🥰 The light was just right, so I got some great photos 📷 When you walk down to the plunge pool, be careful—wet spots can be slippery, so watch your step 👣

Overflow at Chinda Falls Resumes Chinda Falls, located in Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture on Kyushu. Waterfall flow had been stopped for construction since October 2024, but construction is complete and overflow resumed on May 21, 2025. Further construction will require another temporary stoppage of the waterfall. We will share details as they become available. Please be careful when visiting Chinda Falls for sightseeing. ■Upcoming Construction Schedule Water flow will be stopped again from June onward From September onward, improvement work is scheduled for Chinda Falls Fureai Park (the park will be completely closed during construction) ■About Chinda Falls Chinda Falls consists of the male waterfall spanning the main stream of the Ono River and the female waterfall on the Hirai River tributary. The male waterfall is about 100 meters wide and approximately 20 meters high. The ink-wash painter Sesshū, active during the Muromachi period, visited here and painted "Chinda Waterfall." Remains of a power plant built in the Meiji era also remain. ■■■Access to central Bungo-Ono■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture (Bungo-Ono City) on Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

★☆★The 26th Kyushu Tamaire Championship in Morotsuka★☆★ The 26th Kyushu Tamaire Championship will take place at Morotsuka Village Gymnasium on Sunday, June 29. The tournament will be held🌟 “Just a ball toss? Yet not just a ball toss.” The basket you aim for stands over 4 m high😮 Entries are open for the General Division and a Beginner Division for newcomers🔰. ※From 2025 onward there will be no Ladies Division; entrants should register in the General Division. ■Event Schedule Sunday, June 29, 2025 09:30 Opening Ceremony 10:00 Competition Starts 16:00 Expected Finish Venue: Morotsuka Village Gymnasium Participant Parking: Morotsuka Village Sports Park Baseball Field ■Inquiries For tournament matters: Morotsuka Village Board of Education TEL 0982-65-0072 For entry questions: Morotsuka Village Tourism Association TEL 0982-65-0178 ※Entry deadline: Friday, June 13. For applications and details, please check the Kyushu Tamaire Championship page on Morotsuka Navi. We look forward to many entries😊 About the Kyushu Tamaire Championship In 1990, the All Japan Tamaire Association (commonly AJTA) was founded in Wassamu, Hokkaido as a group promoting new sports that anyone can join easily. In 2000, AJTA Kyushu was established here in Morotsuka Village as the Kyushu branch of the All Japan Tamaire Association. Embracing AJTA’s tamaire spirit and promoting exchange with urban areas to revitalize the region, it continues as part of Morotsuka’s community development centered on the whole-village forest park. Today AJTA Kyushu consists of volunteers who cherish the tamaire dream. In addition to running the Kyushu Tamaire Championship (held every summer in Morotsuka Village) as a stepping stone to the national tournament, the association works to popularize this easy-to-learn yet deep tamaire sport as a recreational activity for village residents. About All-Japan Tamaire Rules The competition divides into two divisions, General and Beginner, to compete for the title of Kyushu Tamaire Champion. “All-Japan Tamaire” is a timed race in which teams of four to six players compete to place a total of 100 balls (99 Ajata balls and 1 Anchor ball) into the basket as quickly as possible. AJATA Rules: All-Japan Tamaire Championship Competition Regulations ●Basic Rules “All-Japan Tamaire” is a timed race in which teams of four to six players compete to place a total of 100 balls (99 Ajata balls and 1 Anchor ball) into the basket. 1. Teams must consist of four to six players; lacking even one person results in disqualification. 2. To prevent false starts, players begin facing backward. (Starter gun start) 3. Ajata balls must be placed first; the Anchor ball must be placed last. Placing it earlier causes disqualification. 4. Failing to put all 100 balls in the basket results in disqualification. 5. Using rods or other tools, or tossing from piggyback positions, will result in disqualification. 6. A ball resting on the rim of the basket is counted as safe. If an Anchor ball knocks a ball resting on the basket rim, it is still safe. 7. Anyone other than the players touching the Ajata balls leads to disqualification. 8. Other matters of match operation will be announced at the managers’ meeting. The above rules were officially adopted on April 15, 1996, and partially revised in 2010; all championship tournaments are conducted based on these Ajata rules. ●Participants Number of registered players: up to 8; number competing: 4 to 6 players Gender: mixed or single-gender teams accepted Age: Junior high school age and older (Teams composed only of junior high students are not permitted unless at least one adult participates on the team.) ●Equipment 1. Ajata Court Mark a 6 m diameter Ajata circle with line tape. Position the Ajata basket at the center. 2. Ajata Basket (approved) Height: 4 m 12 cm with steel base (association’s recording site lowest temperature −41.2°C) Basket diameter: 44 cm; depth: 44 cm (association location approx. 44° N) 3. Ajata Balls (approved) Outer fabric cover with resin particle filling • Ajata balls (99)…80 g ±2 g • Anchor ball (1)…250 g ±5 g 4. Ajata Shoes Indoor athletic shoes must be worn.

Kitsuki Castle A landmark towering over the Castle Town Kitsuki Since its construction in 1394, Kitsuki Castle has watched over this town for 600 years. Although it Castle Keep simulated, the three-tiered Castle Keep towering over the Ruins of the Castle is reminiscent of the appearance of this castle in the past. Built in the early Muromachi period by the Kitsuki clan on Mount Tai at the mouth of the Yasaka River, the castle was surrounded by natural strongholds such as the Takayama River to the north and Morie Bay to the east. While the castle changed its location and shape due to subsequent natural disasters and earthquakes, the castle owners were also replaced by the Maeda, Japanese cedar, and Hosokawa clans, and the Ogasawara and Matsudaira clans finally marked the end of the Edo era, and Kitsuki Castle continues to this day without welcoming a new castle owner. It is said to be important for understanding the actual state of castles in the early Edo period, such as understanding the building composition and structure of the castle before its destruction by the "One Country, One Castle Order" from historical documents and excavation results, and in March 2020, the Ruins of the Castle in the Taishan area and the ruins of the Lord's Palace at the foothills were designated as national historic sites. Some of the stone walls still exist. Today, the top of the mountain is open to the public as Shiroyama Park, and there is also a stone park where valuable stone structures such as the Kunisaki Pagoda found in various parts of the city are exhibited outdoors. At the time of the castle's construction, it was named "Kitsuki", but since it was mistakenly written as "Kitsuki" on the shogunate's shuin stamps, it has been changed to "Kitsuki". It is also known as "Katsuyama Castle" because it withstood the onslaught of the Shimazu for two months. Inside the castle, valuable items such as items related to the lords are on display, and armor, weapons, and Buddhist statues are on display. You can also enjoy dressing up and taking commemorative photos. It is visited by many tourists as the final destination of a walk around the Castle Town, and the superb view from the Castle Keep and the comfort of the wind will be a memory of the trip.

kurakurakura Festival 2025 The kurakurakura Festival returns this year. The Taketa–Bungo Ono area, fed by abundant mountain waters, hosts a wide variety of breweries and distilleries producing sake, shochu, wine and craft beer. Special limited-time experience programs will be held at those breweries. ❚ What is the kurakurakura Festival The Taketa–Bungo Ono area features a diverse range of producers, from sake and shochu to wine, craft beer and whisky. Alongside enjoying great drinks, visitors can take part in many exclusive, limited-time brewery experiences. Learn about the breweries and you’ll love the drinks even more. Whether you’re a fan of alcohol or not, discover new ways to enjoy these beverages. [Event Period] Sunday, June 1, 2025 – Sunday, August 31, 2025 [Venues] Eight breweries across the Taketa–Bungo Ono area For details, please check the link below. ■■■Access to central Bungoono City■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Kyushu, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots in Bungo-Ono City ■■■■■■■■■■■■ https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250526event-bungoono/...