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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Notice of the Sannomiya Hibita Shrine Annual Grand Festival The annual grand festival of Hibita Shrine is approaching. This year’s festival will be held tomorrow on the following schedule. Saturday, April 26: Shinkosai (Divine Procession) 12:50: Youth shrine duty 13:10: Mikoshi procession 14:00: Crossing at Kanbe 14:25: Arrival at the temporary imperial station for ritual 15:00: Departure of the portable shrine from the temporary imperial station 16:00: Sannomiya crossing 17:10: Return to the shrine, chimaki ceremony, and enshrinement ritual 13:30–15:00: Satokagura dedication (Sagami Satokagura Kakizawa Troupe Mizuki-kai) A vigorous mikoshi procession and the parade of three ningyo‑dashi (doll floats) will color the festival. Please join us and bring your friends and family to visit. For details, please see the official website.🔗 https://hibita.jp//

Photographed 4/20/25. After watching Ishihara's Sasara Lion Dance, we visited LEC COFFEE. It is a very beautiful latte art.

Today, I went to see Ishihara's Sasara Lion Dance. The god of the mountain (before) and the lion.

At Kanonji Temple, I saw Ishihara's Sasara Lion Dance. The god of the mountains and the lion.

Merhen Kaido Opening Ceremony Thank you for waiting! The Mugi-kusa Pass is now open ✨ Merhen Kaido is now passable starting today. 👀✨ Come feel the scenery, the air, and the breeze at 2,127 meters above sea level—see you soon by car 🚗

Tour de Yatsugatake 2025 Concluded Two days have passed since the conclusion of Tour de Yatsugatake 2025. Despite course changes due to the weather, many riders gave their all, and thanks to the supporters and the staff who backed the event, we were able to finish the race safely. Going forward, the organizing committee will continue working to create an event that inspires people to take on a challenge and that draws them back again. See you again in Yatsugatake! 🚴‍♂️

Today, we Prayer the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine. It was an Annual Grand Festival at Kawagoe City Gokoku Shrine.

🌸✨Announcement: San-no-miya Hibita Shrine Annual Grand Festival✨🌸 With the arrival of spring, the Hibita Shrine annual grand festival is approaching. This year’s festival will take place on the following dates. Tuesday, April 22, 10:00: Ritual Service (ceremony conducted by involved parties) Saturday, April 26: Procession Festival (Shinkosai) 12:50: Young Men Gather at the Shrine 13:10: Mikoshi Procession (portable shrine procession) 14:00: Kobe-watashi (crossing at Kobe) 14:25: Arrival at the Temporary Lodging for the Deity 15:00: Departure from the Temporary Lodging with the Portable Shrine 16:00: San-no-miya Crossing 17:10: Return to the Shrine, Chimaki Ceremony and Enshrinement Festival 13:30–15:00: Satokagura Dedication (Sagami Satokagura Kakizawa Troupe Mizuki-kai) Sunday, April 27: Nobori Kaeshi (Banner Return) The festival features a bold mikoshi procession and a parade of three puppet floats, bringing color and excitement to the celebrations. Please come with family and friends to pay your respects. For details, see the official website.🔗 https://hibita.jp//

🌸✨[Notice of the Hyuga Yakushi Spring Grand Festival]✨🌸 This year’s Spring Grand Festival, which heralds the arrival of spring at Hyuga Yakushi, will be held again! 🗓 Date and time: Tuesday, April 15, 9:00–17:00 🎫 Admission: 300 yen for adults (event held rain or shine) 📍Location: Hyuga Yakushi temple grounds 🔶 Main image revealed to the public (this will be the final public viewing this year) 🔶 Prayer reception: 9:00–16:30 (at the treasure hall) ※No reservation required Pray for good health and household safety in the new fiscal year. 🔶 Shigi tree climb and fire-walking: scheduled to begin around 13:00 (※Cancelled in case of rain) Please witness this solemn ritual, which passes ancient faith into the present, with your own eyes. ※If the event is cancelled due to weather, notice will be posted on the Hyuga Yakushi official website by around 9:00 on the day. 🚌 Access: - From Isehara Station north exit, take the Kanagawa Chuo Kotsu bus bound for Hyuga Yakushi and get off at the final stop (about 25 minutes) - About a 10-minute walk from the bus stop - Parking available (spaces are limited, so we recommend using public transportation) For details, please see the official website below👇 https://www.hinatayakushi.com/4%e6%9c%8815%e6%97%a5%e3%80%88%e7%81%ab%e3%80%89%e6%98%a5%e5%ad%a3%e4%be%8b%e5%a4%a7%e7%a5%ad%e3%80%8a%e6%9c%ac%e5%b0%8a%e9%96%8b%e6%89%89%e5%a4%a7%e6%b3%95%e4%bc%9a%e3%80%8b%e7%a5%9e%e6%9c%a8/... Why not spend a peaceful time in the spring sunshine, experiencing history and tradition? We sincerely look forward to your visit.

◤Ushinokuchi Circular Diversion◢ One of Sakuhomachi’s hidden cultural treasures in Nagano Prefecture🕌 It was built to divide water equally so that disputes would not arise in the area. Before the circular diversion was created, locals used a custom called “vines diversion,” in which they cut vine tendrils and used them to decide each share of the water—a practice that seems to have been rare across Japan💭

Notice of Jikkokutoge Pass Reopening We are pleased to announce the reopening of Japan National Route 299. It reopened today, Friday, April 4, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Highlights include the viewing platform and Otome Falls. Please enjoy your visit!

From the end of the year to the beginning of the year, a large fishing flag was hoisted on a fishing boat at Kishiwada Fishing Port ... ( ˶>ᴗ<˶)🎌🚢 The colorful design is eye-catching and cool 🥰💙. The large fishing flag with various pictures such as sea bream expresses the wish for safe navigation and good fishing. It was ☀️✨ fluttering in the glittering sun and blue sky I wish for the safety of the fishermen in Kishiwada City and hope that the fishing industry will prosper this year ... 👏🐟 ・ ・ 📍 Kishiwada Fishing Port Kishiwada City, Osaka Prefecture Osaka Japan 2025.1

Photographed 3/29/25. It is the first day of the Kawagoe Spring Festival. It is a demonstration of the Kawagoe clan arquebus.

I went ❣️ to "Arimatsu", a town that is Located inside Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture but retains the faces of the Edo period Arimatsu was a teahouse settlement between Chiryu no Shuku and Narumi inn inn on the former Tokaido Highway that connected Edo and Kyoto, and flourished as a tie-dye production area, and was the perfect place ❣️ for a kimono trip It is a wonderful town where you can touch the atmosphere of the Edo period. I was 😃 exposed to a lot of cultural techniques and things in Japan, such as facilities where you can experience tie-dyeing, museums, and merchant's houses

I went ❣️ to the Kurashiki Bikan area of Okayama Prefecture to see [Spring Night Light] In the Kurashiki Bikan district, the historic cityscape and rich Nature are in perfect harmony, and the buildings that retain the face of the Edo period are lined up, and the scenery along the river is particularly beautiful Squid ❣️ Light up of Japanese umbrellas along the river was very cool and beautiful ❣️ The willow trees and small boats also gave me 😃 a strong sense of the faces of the Edo period

It is a demonstration of the Kawagoe clan arquebus gun squad at the main palace of Kawagoe Castle.