The Nagawacho Tourist Information Center inside Roadside Station Marumero No Eki Nagato offers e-bike rentals🚴 Called “Nagawa Cycle”! With an electric-assist e-bike, long distances and uphill roads become easy! Relax and enjoy a comfortable ride at your own pace amid pleasant natural surroundings 😊 〇 Reception hours 9:30 AM–2:00 PM 〇 Usage hours 9:30 AM–4:30 PM 〇 Rental location Nagawacho Tourist Information Center, 2424-19 Furumachi, Nagawacho, Chiisagata District, Nagano Prefecture 〇 Contact 0268-68-0006 Shinshu Nagawacho Tourism Association Nagawacho Sports Commission

This is the Shinshu Nagawacho Tourism Association. Nice to meet you! Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture, lies in central Nagano with abundant nature and a living history. ◇ History of Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture When the Nakasendo route linking Edo and Kyoto ran through the area in the Edo period, Nagawacho hosted two post towns, Nagakubo-juku and Wada-juku, whose traces remain as tourist spots today. ・Nakasendo: 28th Station Wada-juku Located at the foot of Wada Pass, a difficult section with about an 800-meter elevation change on the Nakasendo, many travelers rested and restored their energy here. The nationally designated historic sites Wada-juku Main Camp, Rekishi no Michi Shiryokan Kawachiya, and Daikokuya stand side by side, letting you feel the atmosphere of the Edo period. ・Nakasendo: 17th Station Nagakubo-juku In the Edo period there were 43 inns, making it the second largest of the 26 post towns in Shinano. Hoshikuso Pass in Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture, has been a source of obsidian for ages, and many people lived there. Hard, easily worked obsidian served as material for stone tools for some 30,000 years. ◇ Attractions in Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture◇ ・Utsukushigahara Highlands This lava plateau centers on Mt. Ogatou at 2,034 meters and offers sweeping views of Mount Fuji, Yatsugatake, and the Northern Alps. You can also see peaceful scenes of cows grazing on Utsukushigahara. The evacuation tower called the Tower of Beauty, placed in the highlands' center to ring a bell and protect climbers when fog forms, has become a symbol of Utsukushigahara. ・Roadside Station Marumero No Eki Nagato A recommended spot for buying souvenirs, offering fresh local vegetables and specialties. In June 2020 a direct-sales shop with an Edo-period–style exterior, Marche Kokuyo, opened. ・Kokuyo Water Near the tollgate of the Wada Pass toll road, the famous water plaza springs from bedrock filtered through obsidian. It is listed among Shinshu’s 37 Famous Waters. ・Nagato Hot Spring Yasuragi no Yu This day‑use hot spring facility adjacent to Roadside Station Marumero No Eki Nagato features a sodium sulfate spring, one of Japan’s three renowned “beauty” spring types. There is an open‑air bath and a source‑flowing “kama bath.” ・Wadashuku Onsen Fureai no Yu A day‑use hot spring located within the vast sports park Yuyu Park. The spring quality is calcium–sodium sulfate. From the azumaya‑style open‑air bath you can enjoy seasonal scenery. ・Obsidian Experience Museum Excavation results are presented clearly through actual stone tools, animations, and models. ・Hoshikuso-kan Obsidian Mine Exhibition Room Projection mapping directly onto strata illustrates Jomon‑period obsidian mining revealed by excavations, making the process easy to understand. ※Visitors must register at the Obsidian Experience Museum before entering. ・Blanche Takayama Ski Resort A skier‑only resort boasting an 80% clear‑sky rate. With a variety of runs, it’s a ski area families can enjoy. ※The 2023–2024 season ended on March 31. ◇ Events in Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture◇ ・Otaya Festival An annual festival held around January at Furumachi Toyoke Grand Shrine. Five floats are dedicated within the town. ・Wada-juku Post Town Festival A festival during the Obon period that recreates the history and culture of Wada-juku, drawing many visitors. At night lanterns light the post town. ◇ Local specialties and products of Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture Local specialties include Dattan‑soba and deep‑fried rainbow trout. These products, nurtured by Nagawacho’s rich nature, delight many visitors with their fresh flavors. ◇ Enjoy your visit to Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture Nagawacho welcomes you with abundant nature and streets where the atmosphere of the Edo period remains. We will share recommended information to help you fully enjoy your trip to Nagawacho, Nagano Prefecture, so please follow us. We sincerely look forward to your visit.

Hello to all COOL JAPAN VIDEOS viewers! This is the Nishiizu Tourism Association. Nishi-Izu Town, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture is a town of about 6,300 people located on the west coast of the Izu Peninsula. We will send out recommended information of Nishi-Izu Town! Best regards!! ■Features of Nishi-Izu Town■ Tourist spots created by Nature such as the national natural monument "Tensodo" along the Nishi-Izu Coast, and the "Tombolo of Dogashima" and "Koganezaki" leading to Dogashima Landmark and Sanshiro Island are popular. There are many valuable spots that make up the Izu Peninsula Global Geopark, such as the "One color pillow lava" where you can see the oldest geological formation on the Izu Peninsula about 20 million years ago. In addition, tourist facilities such as trick art and glass museums, and accommodations such as hotels and inns where you can enjoy the scenery of Izu, the Sunset and the beautiful Sea Field are lined up along the Coast, and in Nishi-Izu Town, you can enjoy plenty of Nature and modern culture. ■ Japan's largest sunset town "Nishi-Izu Town" ■ From Izu Nishi Coast, you can Appreciation beautiful Sunset throughout the year, and Otago Coast and Dogashima Coast have been selected as one of the "100 Best Sunset in Japan". In order to enjoy the best Sunset in Japan, those who stay inn in a Accommodations in the town will be guided by a "Sunset volunteer local photography enthusiast" who will guide you to the Sunset points of the day. ■Recommended gourmet and specialty products of Nishi-Izu Town■ Seafood such as ground fish, Japanese flying squid, Ise shrimp, Haliotis, Turbo sazae, and Amakusa landed in Suruga Bay, as well as "Hon Wasabi" grown in the Fine spring water and Clear streams of Mt. Amagi are popular specialty products, and can be tasted at Accommodations and restaurants in Nishi-Izu Town. Salted bonito, a preserved food made by pickling bonito with salt, which is also served at events such as the local gourmet festival "B-1 Grand Prix", is a traditional preserved food handed down in the Tago District and is used as Ochazuke and Udon Noodles with Shio Katsuo. It is also recommended as a souvenir of Nishi-Izu Town. ■Popular sightseeing spots in Nishi-Izu Town■ Since this will be a First Post of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, we will briefly introduce some of the most popular tourist destinations in Nishi-Izu Town. ◇Dogashima Tensodo It is a cave designated as a national natural monument with a hole in the ceiling with a diameter of more than 10 meters. You can explore the inside of the cave by sightseeing boat. You can also go to the upper side of the cave from the promenade. ◇Koganezaki The entire cape is a park, and the promenade, Lawn square, Observatory, and the Mt. Fuji view spot "Fujimi Hill" are Maintenance. You can also watch the beautiful Sunset. ◇Sanshiro Island It consists of four islands consisting of Denbei Island, Nakanoshima, Okinose Island, and Takashima Island located 200 meters off the coast of the Coast, and at low tide a road appears and can be visited on foot. ◇ Mt. Shiraiwa Mural The Honzon Konrin Butsudenson is depicted on the Quay wall of a rock-cut cave on a small hill in the village of Nishina Sawada, Nishi-Izu Town. It is said to have been made in the Kamakura period, but the author is unknown. ◇Hanbata Market In addition to fresh seafood from Nishi-Izu, Specialty products such as Dried fish, Hon Wasabi, and Shio Bonito are lined up. It is also recommended for purchasing Souvenirs of Nishi-Izu sightseeing. ■Introducing Information about Nishi-Izu Town■ In Japan's best sunset town, you can watch the beautiful Sunset that dyes the Sea Field of Nishi-Izu in a beautiful madder red color. There are many recommended sunset appreciation spots on the Coast of Nishi-Izu Town, and you can see a different sunset at each spot. In the COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, we will introduce recommended sightseeing spots in Nishi-Izu Town, so please follow us.

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Video! This is Minamimaki Village in Nagano Prefecture. Minamimaki Village, Minamisaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture is a village of about 3,000 people located in eastern Nagano. The area ranges in elevation from 1,000 meters to 1,500 meters. On relatively flat ground around 1,300 meters, fields of highland vegetables such as Chinese cabbage and lettuce spread out, taking advantage of the cool climate. It is also one of Japan’s top stargazing spots and was chosen as one of the three most beautiful night skies in Japan. There are many stargazing locations throughout Minamimaki Village, Nagano Prefecture. Located at the foot of the Yatsugatake Mountains, the village’s abundant nature, fresh air, and clear night sky offer visitors a soothing escape. ■Tourist attractions in Minamimaki Village, Nagano Prefecture ・JR Nobeyama Station, the highest point on the railway network Nobeyama Station on the JR Koumi Line sits at an elevation of 1,345 meters and 67 centimeters, making it the highest station in Japan. From the station square you can see MtAkadake of the Yatsugatake range. ・Takizawa Farm Spread across the Yatsugatake Nobeyama Highlands, Takizawa Farm lets visitors interact with cows, horses, and other animals and take part in farm programs such as milking and making ice cream. You can also enjoy camping and adventure playgrounds for an out-of-the-ordinary experience. ・Nobeyama Radio Observatory, National Astronomical Observatory of Japan This world-class observatory has offered a Night Tour and the Learning Room Guide every weekend since March 2024. ・Mt. Meshimori You get a vast panorama that includes Yatsugatake, Mount Fuji, and the Southern Alps. A maintained trekking course makes the roughly one-hour ascent enjoyable for children and beginners. ・Yumoto Honzawa Onsen At 2,150 meters on Yatsugatake, the ‘‘bath above the clouds’’ and Koke Momo no Yu, which has a different spring quality, rank among Japan’s highest open-air baths. Surrounded by unspoiled nature, these quiet hot springs offer relaxation for body and mind. ■Local specialties of Minamimaki Village, Nagano Prefecture Minamimaki Village is known for high-quality agricultural products such as hana-mame (large red kidney beans), strawberries, and nagaimo (mountain yam). The flavor of these freshly grown local specialties is exceptional. ■Popular events and activities in Minamimaki Village, Nagano Prefecture You can enjoy a variety of year-round activities, including the Yatsugatake Nobeyama Highlands 100 km Ultramarathon, trekking, highland cycling, horseback riding, snowshoeing, and stargazing night tours. ■Enjoy your visit to Minamimaki Village, Nagano Prefecture With good access from Tokyo Metropolis—about a 2 hour 30 minute drive—it is a great destination for a day trip. Time spent in Minamimaki Village, where you can reconnect with nature, becomes a luxurious break from everyday noise. Please create lasting, precious memories here. Cool Japan Video will continue to share recommended information about Minamimaki Village in Nagano Prefecture. Thank you for your support!

"Michi-no-Eki Otofuke Natsuzora no Furusato" 🌾✨ As the weather in Tokachi gradually warmed, I was tempted by the soft serve at CHA-YA GREEN and enjoyed it deliciously 🍦😋 With its vast grounds and a range of events, dining, and shopping facilities, it offers visitors many experiences and a lively atmosphere 🥐🍜🍚🌽🥔🥬🎹 There is also a bicycle parking area available for visitors who arrive by bike 🚲 You can also spot Otofuke Town’s cute mascot "Oosode-kun" everywhere ✨ He’s a slightly chubby, clumsy fellow inspired by the Otofuke Oosode Furi soybeans 😊 [Hours] 9:00–18:00 [Closed] Monday from November through March; if Monday is a public holiday, closed the following day Year-end and New Year holidays: December 30–January 2 [Food and drink outlets] Hours 10:00–18:00; last order 17:30 [Natsuzora Market — Agricultural and livestock products sales area] 9:00–18:00 - At Michi-no-Eki across Japan’s prefectures, towns, and cities, local agricultural products and famous local foods and goods are gathered. Otofuke’s Michi-no-Eki features dining, activities, and shopping where you can enjoy many local specialties of Otofuke 🥐🍜🍚🌽🥔🥬🎹 Bicycle parking facilities are also well equipped for visitors arriving by bike 🚴 🔎Please check the above information again for details on business hours and related information.

Location: Roadside Station Myogi Cherry blossoms and new first graders 🌸

Location: Roadside Station Myogi Cherry blossoms and new first graders 🌸

■Kids Rental Bikes■ Monthly rentals for kids bikes are now available! For details, see the Rental Bicycle Rates (Monthly) below. Hourly rentals are also available! Available Rental Bikes 12-inch Kick Bike ■Recommended height: 85–105 cm ■Suitable age: 2–5 years ■Perfect for children touching a bicycle for the first time 18-inch Kids Bike ■Recommended height: 102–120 cm ■Suitable age: 4–7 years 20-inch Junior Bike ■Recommended height: 122–135 cm ■Suitable age: 6–10 years ■Equipped with a 7-speed drivetrain 24-inch Junior Bike ■Recommended height: 130–150 cm ■Suitable age: 8–12 years ■Equipped with an 8-speed drivetrain Child Carrier Bike ■Available for children aged 12 months and older ■Load capacity: 34 kg (maximum total load including luggage) ■One passenger only, up to 18 kg * When using this item, it must be paired with another bicycle. If you choose a monthly rental, please write “monthly rental: X months” in the comments section. Contact 12407 Kumashiro, Toyooka Village, Shimoina-gun, Nagano Prefecture 399-3202 Toyooka Tourism Association Toyooka Travel Time (General Incorporated Association) 0265-49-3395 (9:00–18:00)

◆E-BIKE Rental Bicycle◆ Rent an E-BIKE and enjoy cycling. E-bikes offer a more natural pedaling feel than conventional electric bicycles and make hills effortless! With an E-BIKE, you can fully enjoy the scenery in the open air. We also offer guided courses, so please inquire. ■ Special campaign: enjoy rental bicycles plus fruit and vegetable picking!! If you reserve a rental bicycle together with vegetable picking or peach picking, the rental bicycle fee will be 50% off. Please check the detailed pages on the Toyooka Travel Time website for the contents of the harvest experiences. You can also make reservations from the website. When reserving a rental bicycle, please write in the “comments” field that you are also reserving a harvest experience. eBIG.SEVEN Size M ■ Recommended height: 155–175 cm ■ Vehicle weight: approx. 20 kg ■ Equipped with a powerful motor that makes the weight barely noticeable *Available for reservation: 5 units ePASSPORT CC 400 EQ Size S ■ Recommended height: 160–175 cm ■ You can place a basket or bag on the rear rack ■ This is a city-style model that makes mounting and dismounting easy *Available for reservation: 2 units ePASSPORT CC 400 EQ Size XS ■ Recommended height: 150–165 cm ■ A smaller size recommended for women ■ A stylish bike that’s perfect for Instagram-worthy photos *Available for reservation: 3 units Reservations are accepted via the Toyooka Travel Time website or by phone. Bicycles may be unavailable due to reservation status or event participation. Please check the Rental Bicycle Calendar for details. Contact 12407 Kumashiro, Toyooka Village, Shimoina-gun, Nagano Prefecture 399-3202 Toyooka Travel Time, Toyooka Village Tourism Association (General Incorporated Association) 0265-49-3395 (9:00–18:00)

Be sure to check out the desserts at Vege-Full Kitchen ✅😊 Today we have homemade pound cake on display. In honor of White Day, it features white chocolate❕ A subtle sweetness fills the air, and you can finish it in no time. We also have homemade plum jelly made with Toyooka plums✨ and strawberries from Toyooka🍓🍓✨ Please take a look at the showcase by the register👀 We are currently holding a White Day fair Until March 15 Chocolate fondue 500 yen is now available with a white chocolate option for a limited time🤍🤎🤍🤎 Spring is approaching, and we can’t wait for the wide variety of vegetables to arrive Vege-Full Kitchen is open and lively today as well😄 We also accept reservations for tables. Please contact us✨ ✼••┈┈••✼••┈┈••✼••┈┈••✼••┈┈••✼ Vege-Full Kitchen is a garden-style buffet restaurant where you can help yourself to plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits from Toyooka Village✨ ﹍ ﹍ ﹍ ﹍ ﹍ ﹍ ﹍ ﹍ ﹍ Vege-Full Kitchen VEGE-FULL KITCHEN ﹉ ﹉ ﹉ ﹉ ﹉ ﹉ ﹉ ﹉ ﹉ Roadside Station Minamishinshu Toyooka Marche ▶12410 Kamiine, Toyooka Village, Shimoina-gun, Nagano Prefecture #Vege-Full Kitchen #vegefullkitchen #Buffet #Restaurant #Garden Buffet #Toyooka Marche #Minamishinshu Toyooka Marche #Roadside Station #Roadside Station Restaurant #Toyooka Village #Iida City #Shimoina district #Dessert #Homemade Dessert #Pound Cake #White Chocolate #Plum Jelly #Vegetable-rich #Vegetable Buffet #Tomato Nikujaga

This is the Toyooka Village Tourism Association. Hello to everyone watching the Cool Japan Video! Toyooka Village, in Shimoina-gun, Nagano Prefecture, is located in the southern part of Nagano Prefecture, in a region known as Minami Shinshu (Southern Shinshu). The village has a population of approximately 6,500. Compared to much of Nagano Prefecture, Toyooka Village enjoys a relatively mild climate with little snowfall, making it a thriving agricultural community for fruits and vegetables. On Cool Japan Video, we will be sharing recommended information about Minami Shinshu Toyooka Village, so please enjoy our content. In this first post, we will briefly introduce some special experience plans and sightseeing spots you can enjoy within Toyooka Village. ■□ Cycling Guided Tours to Fully Enjoy Toyooka Village’s Nature □■ The Toyooka Village Tourism Association offers the following cycling guided tours to allow visitors to experience the village’s natural blessings. Our cycling tours use E-BIKEs (electric-assist bicycles), making it easy to navigate even uphill slopes♪ Even if you are not used to cycling, our Japan Cycling Guide Association–certified guides will provide support, so you can feel at ease. ◇ Fruit Sweets Plan ◇ This beginner-friendly course takes about two to two and a half hours to complete♪ Harvest seasonal fruit and then enjoy a dessert prepared on the spot by the chef at the local restaurant Cafe & Dining en—an experience you can enjoy year-round. Taste sweets made from freshly picked Toyooka Village fruit♪ ◇ Forest Road Activity Plan ◇ Available for a limited time from late May through the end of August♪ This roughly three- to four-hour course offers thrills and excitement as you ride over bumpy paths you wouldn’t normally take. After working up a sweat in the midsummer heat, the natural water slide will create an unforgettable memory! After enjoying playing in the river, relax with a takeaway lunch from Toyooka Village. ◇ Exquisite Course Lunch Plan ◇ Available for a limited time from late April through early December♪ This roughly four- to four-and-a-half-hour plan lets you experience harvesting Toyooka Village’s seasonal vegetables. After harvesting with a local farmer, savor a superb multi-course lunch prepared by a dedicated chef using freshly picked vegetables while enjoying the spectacular view of the Ina Valley below. ◇ Night Tour Overnight Plan ◇ Available for a limited time from late April through mid-October♪ This evening-start plan lets you enjoy sunset cycling and vegetable harvesting in Toyooka Village, followed by a luxurious BBQ dinner prepared by a dedicated chef with a panoramic view of the Ina Valley below. Afterward, you can soak in a ceramic bath and spend the night at Toyo Terrace for a relaxing, indulgent stay. ■□ Must-See Sightseeing Spots in Toyooka Village □■ ◇ Roadside Station "Minami Shinshu Toyooka Marche" ◇ A must-see spot showcasing fresh local produce and specialty items. Serving as the regional food market of southern Shinshu, it offers a wide selection of locally grown vegetables and fruits—perfect souvenirs for your Toyooka Village visit. ◇ Fukushima Teppen Park ◇ From the park’s observation deck, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Maeda rice terraces in Fukushima Honmura and the Ina Valley. During winter, seasonal illuminations are also displayed. ◇ Mibusawa Fudo Falls ◇ This waterfall has a 15-meter drop. It is about a five-minute walk from the prefectural road, so you can visit easily. (You can also reach it by rental bicycle.) ◇ Weeping Cherry Blossoms at Sasamidaira ◇ This weeping cherry tree reaches about 15 meters in height and is estimated to be over 400 years old. It is designated as a Toyooka Village natural monument. ■□ Popular Events Loved in Toyooka Village □■ ◇ Toyooka Festival ◇ Held each year in November at the Toyooka Village Hall venue, the Toyooka Festival attracts roughly 12,000 attendees in total and is one of the village’s most popular events. Many food stalls line the venue, and stage events and musical fireworks take place. ■□ Specialty Products of Toyooka Village □■ Toyooka Village produces delicious fresh fruits nurtured by its rich nature, including peaches, apples, Shine Muscat grapes, Ichida persimmons, and pears. The village is also known for matsutake mushrooms, often called the king of mushrooms. These specialty products are carefully cultivated by local people, and their flavors have impressed many visitors. In Toyooka Village, you can also enjoy seasonal fruit-picking experiences such as the apple tree owner system and peach picking. These activities are especially recommended for families, giving children a valuable chance to enjoy nature while learning the importance of food. Also, at the Vegetable Garden Buffet Restaurant Vegful Kitchen, you can enjoy superb dishes made with fresh vegetables from Toyooka Village in a buffet style. When visiting Toyooka Village, be sure to fully indulge in the local cuisine! ■□ Enjoy Toyooka Village Tourism □■ Toyooka Village also runs the Toyooka Village Working Holiday program, which offers countryside living experiences and agricultural experiences for those considering relocating to the countryside or starting farming. Surrounded by Toyooka Village’s great natural beauty, why not escape the daily hustle and find true relaxation? Cool Japan Video will continue to share recommended and up-to-date information about Toyooka Village, Nagano Prefecture, so please follow us!

I visited Indian Natsuzora, which opened last month at Roadside Station Otofuke Natsuzora no Furusato! I ordered the Natsuzora exclusive hamburger you can only get here. It paired a juicy patty made from a blend of "Otofuke Town Kino e-Beef" and pork with the town’s beloved curry. It was so tasty that I finished it in no time 😊 The Natsuzora shop also sells frozen curry, making it a great souvenir✨ After the meal, I had soft serve from SKYPIEA, the takeout-only shop at the same roadside station. It was a snowy, cold day, but Yotsuba soft serve is delicious anytime✨ It was a day fully satisfied by the roadside station’s gourmet offerings. ・Indian Natsuzora Hours 10:00–18:00 (Last order 17:30 ) Closed From November to March: every Monday (If Monday is a public holiday, the following day) Year-end and New Year holidays (December 31–January 3) Closed three days each in May and August and one day in November ・SKYPIEA Hours 10:00–18:00 (Last order 17:30 ) Closed From November to March: every Monday (If Monday is a public holiday, the following day) Year-end and New Year holidays (December 31–January 3) ・Roadside Station Otofuke Natsuzora no Furusato Hours 9:00–18:00 Closed From November to March: every Monday (If Monday is a public holiday, the following day) Year-end and New Year holidays (December 31–January 3) 2 Natsuzora, Otofuke Town TEL 0155-65-0822

HELLO TO EVERYONE WHO WATCHES COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! This is the Izu Tourism Association. Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, located in the central part of the Izu Peninsula with a population of about 26,000, was formed in 2004 by the merger of four towns in Tagata County: Shuzenji Town, Toi Town, Amagi Yugashima Town, and Naka Izu Town. Two-thirds of the city is an area rich in nature occupied by mountain forests. We will continue to provide recommended information on "Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture", which can be visited by many tourists who are fascinated by the pleasant warm climate of the Izu Peninsula and the beauty of nature! This is my first posted, and I will introduce all the recommended information in Izu City! We hope you enjoy it. ■■Recommended sightseeing spots in Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture■■ ・Joren no Taki Waterfall It is a powerful waterfall with a height of 25 meters and a width of 7 meters in Izu Amagi, which is known for the "Amagi-goe"Walk Over Amagi Pass of Sayuri Ishikawa, and you can enjoy trout fishing downstream of this Waterfall basin and wasabi cultivation along the mountain stream. ・Old Amagi Tunnel Amagisan Tunnel It is a historic tunnel that opened in 1905 on the former National Route 414 connecting Izu City and Kawazu Town. With a total length of 445.5 meters, it is the longest tunnel of an existing stone road in Japan. ・Lover's Cape From the observation deck on the cape, you can see a large panorama overlooking Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay. It is said that if you call the name of your loved one while ringing the Love Call Bell three times, love will come to fruition. ・Doi Gold Mine It is the largest gold mine in Izu, which boasted the second largest production in Japan after the Sado Gold Mine in Niigata Prefecture from the Edo period to the Showa period, and is now reborn as a tourist facility where you can enjoy the gold placer mining experience, and is popular as a power spot. The Kogane Kan exhibits a huge gold nugget weighing 250 kilograms, which is also recognized by the Guinness Book of Records. ・Roadside station There are two Roadside stations in Izu City: "Roadside Station Izu Tsukigase" and "Roadside Station Amagikoe". The "Showa no Mori Kaikan" located at "Roadside Station Amagikoe" is a facility where you can learn about the plants and animals of Amagi. ■■Izu City's specialties and local gourmet■■ ・Wasabi It is the largest Wasabi production area in Shizuoka Prefecture, produced in the clear stream of Mt. Amagi, and is made with the blessings of nature without using Fertilizers or Pesticides. For fresh wasabi, not only raw wasabi, but also Pickled Wasabi, Wasabi miso, Wasabi Nori, Soy Sauce Pickling, and Pickled in three cups are recommended, and it is a popular specialty for Souvenirs. ・Shiitake mushrooms In Izu, which has a warm climate, high-quality shiitake mushrooms are grown. Shiitake mushrooms that have cleared strict standards, such as umbrellas that are about 4 to 6 centimeters in size and in good shape, are branded and sold as "Seisuke Donko". Both are also popular thank-you gifts for Furusato Nozei. ■■Events and festivals in Izu City■■ ・Kobo Daishi Fireworks Festival Held every year on August 21 as a festival to comfort the spirit of Kobo Daishi, it is a fireworks festival launched from the mountainside, which is very rare in Japan. ・Amagi Firefly Festival You can admire the Genji fireflies that grew up in Amagi. Surrounded by the fantastic light of fireflies, it has become a summer tradition. ■■Accommodation in Izu City■■ Izu City has a variety of accommodation facilities that cater to the various needs of tourists visiting the city. At the historic Shuzenji Onsen, you can experience traditional Japanese hospitality at a number of hot spring inns and hotels. Shuzenji Onsen also has facilities where you can enjoy day-trip hot springs, and the Walking trail in the Hot Spring District "Bamboo Forest Path" is popular as a photo spot where the lush bamboo is lit up after sunset. Izu City is rich in nature, deep history, local gastronomy, and heartwarming hospitality. While enjoying the scenery of the four seasons, please spend a time that can only be experienced in Izu City. We will continue to introduce recommended spots in Izu City, so thank you.

Uonuma City, Niigata Prefecture Jizo of Kagagaike, Having chestnuts 🌰 offered, it became a piece that made me feel happy that the community is being protected and protected.

Thank you for waiting. We are pleased to launch this season’s new rice for Reiwa 5! #New Rice #Higashikawa-cho #Hokkaido #Roadside Station Higashikawa Michikusakan #Yumepirika #Nanatsuboshi #Oborozuki #Specialty Rice

In the center of the Niikappu is the roadside station Thoroughbred Road Niikappu, and to the right of it are the Hearing Experience Cultural Exchange Facility Les Cord Halls and Yujun Tower. Les Cords houses more than one million records, some of which can be viewed and viewed free of charge. The paid course exhibits rare cultural heritage such as phonographs and early vinyl records. You can also listen to music on one of the largest speaker systems in Japan. In the center of the record-sembling Les Cords is the 36-meter-high Yujun Tower, which can be climbed for free, and you can enjoy a 360° panorama from the observation deck, which is 25 meters above the ground. In addition, the observatory exhibits items specialized in Niikappu, such as photographs and souvenirs that honor the history of Niikappu as a horse-producing area and the splendid achievements of Niikappu-produced racehorses, befitting the name Yujun Tower. Since there is only one precious item and something that can only be found here, it is an irresistible spot for horse racing fans and horse lovers. There is also a café that sells coffee and ice cream, so you can relax and see the scenery and exhibits while drinking coffee. When you come to Niikappu, please visit the Yujun Tower! By the way, the costume in the photo is "Umanari". It is said that there are good things when you meet Umanari-san. 【Les Cords and Yujun Tower】※Admission is free. Address: Niikappu Chuo-cho 1-4 Le Cord Hours: 10:30-16:30 Closed: Mondays or the following day if Monday is a holiday, the day after a national holiday, and the year-end and New Year holidays

The commemorative stamp of Roadside Station Oumu has been renewed. Like Omu Town, the roadside station and the official character Sujiko-chan are designed in the scallop frame. Even if you have pressed the previous design, please come and see the new stamp.

Nice to meet you! This is the Tokachi Tourism Federation. We are pleased to introduce charming information about Tokachi in Hokkaido, blessed with vast plains and beautiful nature. First, here is some basic information about Tokachi. Tokachi is made up of 19 municipalities, including its center, Obihiro City. "The 19 municipalities of Tokachi" Obihiro City, Otofuke, Shihorocho, Kamishihoro Town, Shikaoicho, Shintoku Town, Shimizu-cho, Memuro Town, Nakasatsunaimura, Sarabetsumura, Taiki Town, Hirocho, Makubetsu, Ikeda Town, Toyokorocho, Hombetsucho, Ashorocho, Rikubetsucho, Urahorocho The name Tokachi for Hokkaido comes from the Ainu word "Tokapuchi," which referred to the Tokachi River used by Hokkaido’s indigenous people. Because Tokachi has a continental climate, spring and summer temperatures are relatively warm compared with other parts of Hokkaido. Winters can get as cold as minus 30 degrees Celsius, but snowfall is light and the region often enjoys clear skies. The main access route to Tokachi is by air via Tokachi Obihiro Airport. Flights to Tokachi Obihiro Airport take about 1.5 hours from HanedaKuukou and about 1 hour 45 minutes from Nagoya Chubu. By train, you can travel from Sapporo to JR Obihiro Station in as little as 2 hours 24 minutes. Tokachi is a treasure trove of nature, and each of its 19 municipalities offers diverse attractions. You will find many scenic spots and opportunities to encounter wildlife. In this post, we introduce a selection of popular sightseeing spots. In Obihiro City, Banei Tokachi at Obihiro Racecourse (Banei Tokachi) is the only racecourse in the world that holds Banei horse racing, where draft horses pull sleds in competition. Banei races test strength, speed, and endurance. The powerful sight of horses running a 200-meter course is a must-see. On-site, a petting zoo lets you interact with ponies, rabbits, and other animals, and it is open even on non-race days. Next is Tokachi Hills in Makubetsu. This hilltop complex combines nature and flowers, with themed gardens focused on "agriculture and food." Roses, herbs, and many other flowers bloom here, so you can enjoy floral displays year-round. The garden café on site serves unique menu items you can only taste there, such as a casket-style sandwich made with roasted loin of Mangalica pork, the world’s only edible national treasure (a Hungarian delicacy). Nearby attractions around Tokachi Hills follow. Happiness Station, about a 20-minute drive from Tokachi Hills, became famous in the 1970s with the slogan "From the Land of Love to Happiness." Known as a lovers’ shrine, Kofuku Station remains a popular spot for couples wishing for happiness. From late April through the end of November, the Kofuku Station Happy Ceremony offers a mock wedding experience. Aikoku Station, which sparked a similar boom, lies about 15 minutes by car from Kofuku Station. Now enjoyed as the Traffic Memorial Hall, the ticket monument marked "bound for Happiness" in front of its station building is a great photo spot. About 25 minutes by car from Tokachi Hills is TokachigawaOnsen, a hot spring resort village on the banks of the Tokachi River. The moor hot springs available at TokachigawaOnsen are recognized as a Hokkaido heritage and are one of Japan’s rare plant-based hot springs. Moor hot springs are said to help with neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain, chronic gynecological conditions, and sensitivity to cold. Some nearby hotels offer day-use bathing. Surrounded by beautiful nature, soaking in these hot springs is a great way to refresh and relieve everyday fatigue. The Tokachi area has 15 roadside stations providing local specialties, gourmet food, and tourist information. (As of July 2023) Roadside Station Ashoro Ginga Hall 21, renovated from a railway station in 2011, still retains railway motifs and represents Ashorocho’s roadside station. The shop and bakery use local specialties such as the world’s largest butterbur, Rawan-buki, in breads, and the restaurant serves local treats such as Rawan-buki soft serve. Don’t miss the local pork bowl at Kumano-ko Regional Exchange and Local Products Center. At roadside stations you can enjoy region-specific foods and other local experiences unique to each area. Be sure to stop by as a memory of your trip. Next, we introduce spots where you can experience Hokkaido’s vast nature. One of Hokkaido’s three secret lakes, Lake Onneto, lies at the western edge of Akan-Mashu National Park. Because the lake surface changes color with the seasons and time of day, it is also called the "Five-Colored Pond." An observation deck offers stunning views of Lake Onneto with MtMeakan and Akan Fuji in the background and is a recommended viewpoint. In Kamishihoro Town, the Taushubetsu River Bridge at Lake Nukabira is a 130-meter-long concrete arch bridge built in 1937. About 60 arch bridges of various sizes, once part of the former National Railway Shihoro Line, are preserved as modern industrial heritage. In spring, as snow melts and water levels rise, the arches reflect on the surface and resemble eyeglasses, which is why the bridge is also called the "Spectacles Bridge." Mikuni Pass (in Kamishihoro Town) inside Daisetsuzan National Park stands at 1,139 meters and is the highest pass in Hokkaido. You will be captivated by natural spectacles such as fresh green seas of trees in spring and vivid autumn foliage. At the Mikuni Pass café on the summit, popular specialty items include hand-drip coffee roasted on-site. Finally, Tokachi Ranch in Otofuke covers an expansive 4,092 hectares. The ranch raises Dosanko horses, sheep, and cattle. A popular spot is the 1.3-kilometer row of birch trees that continues from the ranch entrance. Tokachi hosts various events throughout the year. The Tokachi Port Festival’s Tokachi Port Marine Fireworks, held in Hirocho, is the only fireworks festival in the Tokachi area that takes place at a port. Underwater fireworks that spread across the sea surface are one of the highlights. The 2023 event was scheduled for August 5. The summer Obihiro Plain Festival, autumn Obihiro Chrysanthemum Festival, and winter Obihiro Ice Festival are known as the three major Obihiro festivals and are popular events. The Kachimai Fireworks Festival, held on the Tokachi River riverbed, is known for its highly entertaining program. Enjoy a fireworks show woven together with music, lighting, and pyrotechnics. The 2023 event was scheduled for August 13. Hokkaido Tokachi is a region overflowing with charm, where vast nature, gourmet food, hot springs, and attractions come together in harmony. We will continue to bring you more information on Tokachi’s sightseeing spots, events, and gourmet offerings that we could not cover in this post! Please look forward to future updates!

Ashoro Furusato Rawan-buki Festival 2023 On Sunday, June 25, starting at 9:45 a.m., the Ashoro Furusato Rawan-buki Festival will take place at the event plaza in front of Roadside Station Ashoro Ginga Hall 21. The festival will feature sales of rawan-buki, food and drink booths, and stage shows. Each food booth plans to offer dishes made with fresh, in-season rawan-buki. The stage program includes a performance by the town’s student brass band and games using rawan-buki. Due to the impact of COVID-19, this event could not be held since 2020, but this year marks its first on-site edition, so we warmly invite everyone to attend. A special festival page has been set up on the Ashoro Tourism Association website, so please check it out as well!

Butahage Roadside Station Otofuke Branch This popular pork bowl shop, with its main location in Obihiro, served me the pork-soup set. Beyond the delicious pork bowl itself, I loved the pork miso soup filled with chunky vegetables served in a bowl larger than the rice bowl. This dish lets you fully enjoy Otofuke Town’s local soybeans and vegetables. The pork-soup set was sold out before noon. Tokachi’s vegetables are truly delicious, so I hope everyone gets to try them 😊

Hello. Today's Assabu is Unfortunately, the weather is unfortunate, Another kitchen car Came. This time Handled waffles and tacos It is a shop. Both look delicious Menu only What is lunch? I'm going to ask for something else. It's hard to come across Why don't you enjoy the taste of the restaurant? I don't feel like going out because the weather is bad I think, That's it! !️ We look forward to seeing you there. #Assabu #Road station #Asabu #Kitchen car #Waffles #Tacos #It smells good in the air #Sweets are different belly #How about tacos for lunch?

Introducing the post of "Niikappu Tourism Association" COOL JAPAN VIDEOS official social media account! Hokkaido Niikappu is located in the center of Hokkaido and is characterized by being easy to spend in summer and little snow in winter. There are also many attractive sightseeing spots such as "Judgekan Forest Park Campground", "Roadside Station Thoroughbred Road Niikappu", and "Niikappu Onsen". ◆Niikappu Tourism Association◆ 【Address】 〒059-2401 Hokkaido Niikappu Honmachi 44

If you get tired of driving the roadside station Inami ★, maybe you can sit on this chair and ★ sit down! ★

There are some kind of events every station season on the ★ Himibanya Highway ★, so you can enjoy it.

Himibanya Street ★ Rare Sardine Streamer ★ A little interesting ★ Involuntarily Pashari ★

If you get tired after taking a walk at the station of Himibanya Kaido ★, you can ★ take a break in the ★ foot bath and fill your stomach with Toyama specialties.

Would you like to cool off by playing in the water? Tomakomai City offers many places to splash and play in the water. You can try canoeing on the river or enjoy water play at parks. At Lake Utonai, which also serves as a Roadside Station, you might be lucky enough to see various wild birds and animals playing in the water…!! Bibi River Canoe Contact River Division, Road and River Section: 0144-32-6495 Roadside Station Lake Utonai Address: 156-30 Uenae, Tomakomai City, Hokkaido 059-1365 Phone: 0144-58-4137 Utonai Lake Wildlife Protection Center Address: 156-26 Uenae, Tomakomai City, Hokkaido 059-1365 Phone: 0144-58-2231

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!

★ The 17th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest is currently being ★ held under the theme of "Japan's Hidden Sightseeing Spots" We look forward to receiving many applications from you! This time, we will introduce "Asuka"'s post! It's a photo that feels like a comfortable resort atmosphere. "Aloha Garden Tateyama" is a facility attached to "Roadside Station Minamibo Paradise" in Tateyama City, Chiba Prefecture. There are plenty of highlights such as the zoo and botanical garden and the hula terrace where you can enjoy hula dance shows. ◆Aloha Garden Tateyama◆ 【Address】〒294-0224 Chiba Prefecture, Tateyama City, Fujiwara 1497 【Parking lot】Available for about 250 cars Please see the official website for details. ）

Roadside station Inami ● Free parking is large ● Easy to move wheelchairs with few steps in the building ● You can enjoy sculptures ● There is also a restaurant ● Perfect for driving breaks ● Local ingredients are also sold ● Manju and roasted chestnuts are delicious