October 23rd Azumino, where the Northern Alps and pastoral landscapes are beautiful Today’s clear autumn sky let us see all the way to the mountains of Hakuba! The rice ears have already been completely harvested, but delicious rice will be planted again next year.

October 23rd Azumino in autumn Today the sun felt warm during the day, and a walk with views of the Northern Alps was perfect! Be careful, as mornings and evenings are cold.

The Nakasendo and Five Post Towns within Shiojiri City Along the Nakasendo, there were 69 post towns stretching from Nihombashi in Edo to Sanjo Ohashi in Kyoto. Although the Shiojiri area had more hills and slopes than the Tokaido, travelers could keep to their planned schedules because prolonged delays caused by river closures were rare. Within Shiojiri, the Nakasendo included five post towns: Shiojiri-juku, Seba-juku, Motoyama-juku, Niekawa-juku, and Narai-juku. 1. Shiojiri-juku (the 30th station from Nihombashi) Shiojiri-juku stood on the border between the Matsumoto and Suwa domains. A checkpoint called the kuchidome-bansho, which inspected rice and prohibited goods, was established there. Honjin and waki-honjin served officials on sankin-kotai, and by the late shogunate period the number of inns ranked second on the Nakasendo and first in Shinano. 2. Seba-juku (the 31st station from Nihombashi) Seba-juku lies at the fork between the Nakasendo and the Zenkoji Kaido. It hosted one of the Nakasendo’s three kanmearisho, offices that measured grain. A great fire in the early Showa era destroyed much of the post town’s appearance, but a stone lantern marking the old fork remains. 3. Motoyama-juku (the 32nd station from Nihombashi) Said to be the birthplace of soba-kiri noodles, Motoyama-juku prospered as the gateway to Kiso and the exit of the Matsumoto Basin. Its honjin accommodated Princess Kazunomiya when she married Tokugawa Iemochi, and later served as lodgings during Emperor Meiji’s imperial tour in Meiji 13 (1880). 4. Niekawa-juku (the 33rd station from Nihombashi) Niekawa-juku marks the entrance to the eleven post towns of the Kiso Road. Niekawa Sekisho checkpoint guarded this key transport chokepoint on the Nakasendo, and the town developed through lodging services and long-distance trade. 5. Narai-juku (the 34th station from Nihombashi) Famed as “Narai Senken” with a thousand bustling shops in its heyday, Narai-juku still preserves much of its historical atmosphere and today draws many visitors as a popular tourist destination.

Like dandelion fluff. The charm of Fujikawa Town nationwide It spreads 🌼 softly

Cosmos blooming in a fallow rice field The Northern Alps are turning color, and Azumino has grown chilly in the mornings and evenings.

🌻 Tsunan Sunflower Square 🌻 Surrounded by sunflowers that bloom brilliantly in midsummer, I visited because I wanted to feel "summer". It was a masterpiece with sunflowers blooming all over the place, but I 📷✨ took a picture of some of them There is also a maze of sunflowers, and it is a Spot that is sure to be photogenic! It is a place where 🌻 families, couples, and photographers can enjoy a variety of things

[Okuyama Diary Vol.73 * Akazawa Inn, the beginning of autumn] The number of days with cool air has suddenly increased Okuyamanashi is Yakawa. I was wary that there would still be hot days. However, on this day, we stayed at Akazawa Inn, which is at a high elevation. Near dusk, the temperature plummets, The signs of autumn seemed to creep up from under my feet.

[Mt. Kiritou] Mt. Kiritou rises to 1,305 meters and is a popular destination for day hikes. It sits near the middle of the Central Divide that runs east to west across Nagano Prefecture. From the summit you can take in wide views of Matsumoto, Ina, and the Suwa area, as well as the Northern and Southern Alps, MtOntake, Yatsugatake, and even MtMyoko on the far horizon. From late April into May, delicate reddish-purple okinagusa flowers greet hikers. [Hiking Routes] Mt. Kiritou has three main hiking routes, each with its own appeal. Choose the route that suits you and give Mt. Kiritou a try! 1. Shimotonishijo Course 2. Ono Course (commonly called the Kattori Course) 3. Central Divide Course Note: In winter, crampons and other cold‑weather mountaineering gear are essential. 1. Shimotonishijo Course Access by car: about 15 minutes from Shiojiri IC on the Nagano Expressway Access by train: nearest station JR Midoriko Station Parking: about 40 spaces Toilets: one men’s and one women’s toilet at Yamanokami Nature Garden Related: Yamanokami Nature Garden, okinagusa This route starts at Shimonishijo to the north of Mt. Kiritou. From the Yamanokami Nature Garden parking area it takes about 1 hour 45 minutes. From the parking area you walk along forest paths through the Nature Garden and past Tamarazu no Ike toward the trailhead, warming up your legs before the climb. 2. Ono Course (commonly called the Kattori Course) Access by car: about 20 minutes from Shiojiri IC on the Nagano Expressway Access by train: nearest station JR Ono Station Parking: about 10 spaces Toilets: temporary toilets available (closed in winter) Related: Mt. Kiritou winter sample itinerary This route starts from Ono to the south of Mt. Kiritou. The trail passes historic spots such as the Kattori Castle Ruins and a stone monument to Ontake Daigongen. It takes about 1 hour 10 minutes from the parking area, and it is the steepest of the three courses. 3. Central Divide Course Access by car: about 15 minutes from Shiojiri IC on the Nagano Expressway Access by train: nearest station JR Midoriko Station Parking: about 10 spaces Toilets: none Related: Oshibayama, nirinso (two‑leaf anemone) The trailhead lies slightly toward Shiojiri from the watershed park at Utou Pass. The route climbs via Oshibayama to Mt. Kiritou and takes about 2.5 hours. The scenery and terrain change rapidly on the way to the summit, offering a varied mountain trail. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Requests for a safe and enjoyable climb of Mt. Kiritou Please protect plants for nature conservation. Take your trash home to help protect the environment. The Mt. Kiritou area experiences frequent lightning, so monitor the weather carefully. Do not enter any prohibited areas. Never start a wildfire. Be aware of dangerous wildlife such as bears, hornets, and poison‑sumac species.

Have you seen the Minamimaki Village logo? When I first saw it, I thought, "What is this?", but this logo actually has a meaningful design. Against a backdrop featuring Yatsugatake (Mt. Akadake, Mt. Yokodake, and Mt. Ioudake), the symbol of Minamimaki Village, and a star motif representing the beautiful night sky of Nobeyama Highlands—one of Japan’s three best stargazing spots—the village name "minamimakimura" is expressed as "mmm." I find it to be a very well-crafted logo. We would be delighted if you used this mark in various situations to help promote Minamimaki Village! Anyone may freely use it as long as they follow the usage rules. However, prior approval is required for commercial sales. For details, please see below. https://www.minamimakimura.jp/main/mmmlogo.html...

The clear air and gentle breeze make for a pleasant autumn day Morning walk in Azumino In the distance you can see Mt. Fuji of Shinano

October 18th It’s a clear autumn day in Azumino A straight sunlit road stretches toward Mt. Jōnen

Yashagaike sits on the border between Minami-Echizen, Fukui Prefecture and Ibigawa, Gifu Prefecture. From a little higher up, doesn’t it look like some kind of shape? 💕 The view of Yashagaike from a short climb above the pond gives you a slightly special feeling. https://www.minamiechizen.com/en/spot/19456/...

Hello, this is the main building of Yamanashi Wine Kingdom 🍷 Now that it is mid-October, trees in sunny spots and places that cool off in the mornings and evenings are starting to change color. The unstable weather makes the progress of autumn foliage a little worrisome, but the feel of fall is certainly drawing near. And this season’s new wine has come out delicious as well! Please enjoy the fresh flavors crafted with great care. Mornings and evenings are getting chilly. When you visit, please dress warmly. We sincerely look forward to welcoming you ✨

“Kogane no Ume” is one of Minami-Echizen Town’s specialties. Because “Kogane no Ume” ripens later than other plums, it takes about one more month before it is ready to harvest. The green fruit turns yellow and fills the air with a sweet, fruity scent that makes you want to take a deep breath. They are sold at the Roadside Station Minami Echizen Sankairi during the harvest season.

🔮“Crystal Mikoshi: Autumn Leaves Dance” — Sunday, November 9, 13:00🔮 A message from Shosenkyatto, the relaxed mascot of the Shosenkyo Tourism Association ✨ 🔮Crystal Mikoshi: Autumn Leaves Dance🔮 In Shosenkyo, a giant crystal orb serves as the sacred object enshrined in a mikoshi, and on the 9th the mikoshi will parade along the Crystal Road around Senga Falls starting at 13:00🔮 Before the mikoshi is carried, you can actually touch the sacred crystal orb and make a wish! What will you wish for!? Maybe a sudden windfall of money?😆 📅 Date: Sunday, November 9, 2025 🕐 Time: 13:00–15:00 (held rain or shine) 📍 Venue: Shosenkyo, around Senga Falls, along the Crystal Road This event is unique to Shosenkyo, the birthplace of crystal! The autumn leaves are beautiful around that time, so please come by! We’ll be waiting for you in Shosenkyo!

[2025 Rokkakudo Kiriko Festival] Scene of the "Rokkakudo Kiriko Festival" on 10/13 (Monday). You can see the historical Kiriko exhibition up close. The works created over time are detailed and delicate... I am overwhelmed by the beauty that I can't believe is human work! At dusk, when the lights are lit in the Rokkakudo Hall and I see the local people praying, I hope that this scene will continue to be passed down in the future, along with the miracle that has continued for more than 300 years.

October 4, 2025 Kami-Suwa Kaido Town Walk and Sake Stroll 2025 On that day, a major event took place in Suwa: “Kami-Suwa Kaido Town Walk and Sake Stroll.” Along the route from Kami-Suwa Station, within about 1 km along National Route 20, five of Suwa’s famous breweries stand side by side, and for the event the area from Suwa 2-chome to the Motomachi traffic lights was turned into a pedestrian zone. The five breweries of Suwa proudly served their signature sake. This year, a hinoki masu (cypress sake cup) and a participant sticker worn on the left chest functioned as the festival passport, creating an event where guests could enjoy the aroma of hinoki along with fine sake. Tickets were limited to 3,000, and popularity was so high that they sold out by September 14—half a month earlier than last year. This time, foodie Kasai couldn’t make it to the site… but a staff member from the same association kindly provided photos! Local restaurants once again showcased their skills with snack stalls, and neighborhood groups offered their own stalls as well!!! Although it rained on the day, the ticket exchange at 11:00 at Suwachao was bustling. The town began to liven up ahead of the pedestrian zone opening at 12:00, and by the official start at 13:00 lines formed in front of the five breweries as people queued for their favorite labels. The opening featured greetings from the mayor of Suwa City and the head of the Chamber of Commerce, followed by the local traditional kiyari work songs, which marked the start of the Sake Stroll. Afterward, the kiyari performers walked along the Kaido, responding to requests and continuing their songs until about 17:00. From 14:00, local dance troupes energized the venue. Stall lines were huge, offering yakitori, eel, karaage and san-zoku-yaki (mountain-bandit-style fried chicken), chicken wings, game dishes, skewers, candied apples, yakisoba, and more. The food stalls were a great success. People enjoyed delicious sake and tasty local dishes. We met so many smiling faces—thank you very much. Next year, to ensure visitors are satisfied and entertained while securing understanding and cooperation from the local community, all our staff will continue working hard to keep Suwa lively and thriving. https://nomiaruki.com// https://nomiaruki.com/machiaruki-nomiaruki/...

Commemorative photo of a solo traveler A scene from Ono City, Fukui Prefecture, at Kuzuryuko Station on the JR Etsumi Kita Line. I am traveling alone using the Blue Spring 18 ticket, and as a commemoration of coming here, I took a selfie using the mirror on the platform.

Summer is almost here During the rainy season in mid-July. At this time of year, there is still no sign of people in Senrihama Beaches, Hakui City, Ishikawa Prefecture, but it There are a scene where you can feel summer soon.

Hello 🌞 This is Gen, the shop closest to Senga Falls! 😃 At Shosenkyo Gorge, the heat has eased 🍃 and the autumn breeze has finally arrived 🍂 Although Kofu Basin still has some hot days 💦 In October, Shosenkyo’s average temperature is around 19°C 🌡️, making it perfect for hiking and trekking ⛰️👟 Stroll slowly as you take in the granite cliff faces, striking rock formations, and clear streams that create what is hailed as Japan’s most beautiful gorge scenery 😊 It’s truly soothing 💖 At Gen, we also carry a selection of rare natural stones, including top-quality amethyst 💎 (kuro-murasaki suisho, black purple crystal) Please enjoy shopping 🛍️ and dining 🍴 in the Takiue Area or along the Crystal Road after your walk♪ We look forward to seeing you all 😄👋

A child who is scared when his favorite dinosaur becomes life-size! Even so, it was 😂 very cool to see them have the courage to stand up to it

My child likes dinosaurs, so I Outbound a trip to Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum in Fukui Prefecture. I was scared that my favorite dinosaur would become life-size! I took a picture 📷 of them running frantically from the dinosaurs

Cherry blossom-lined streets can be found everywhere in Minami-Echizen! We also offer bicycle rentals, so why not take a relaxed ride along the country roads? We look forward to welcoming you around April.

The ridgeline of the Northern Alps as seen from Azumino Sky Path — 'Panorama Ginza' Traverse Hike the ridgeline from Mt. Tsubakuro to Mt. Ōtenjō, enjoying views of Mt. Yari!

Most of the rice in Azumino’s rice fields has already been harvested. A few patches still remain!! The landscape evokes the feeling of autumn. May it become delicious new rice!!

Hello 😃✨ This is Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Senga Falls store! 🌿 Shosenkyo Gorge is a beautiful ravine that is popular throughout Japan. The highlight there is Senga Falls. 💦 The waterfall plunges about 30 meters with impressive force, showing a different face in every season. The waterfall’s name comes from the Chinese moon goddess Chang'e, giving it a dreamlike air as if she descended from the moon 🌙✨ 🍁 In autumn, the surrounding mountains turn brilliant with fall colors, and the views from the walking paths are truly recommended. There are cafes and souvenir shops near the falls, so it feels great to relax there for a while. 🍷 At Yamanashi Wine Kingdom Senga Falls store, we offer original wines you can only taste here. A particularly popular choice is the fresh, easy-drinking Delaware new wine. We also carry red and white wines, so you can enjoy them according to your taste 😊 🌟 When you visit Shosenkyo Gorge, be sure to enjoy Senga Falls and wine together! The power of nature and delicious wine will refresh both your mind and body ✨

This morning’s Azumino white carpet the white buckwheat flowers nearby were blooming beautifully I’m looking forward to the day I can try them as new soba!!

The “Kaiko Fest 2025” digital stamp rally campaign runs from Wednesday, October 1, 2025, through Sunday, November 30, 2025. Collect digital stamps by visiting sightseeing spots and attractions around the Mikata Goko area for a chance to win accommodation vouchers and local specialties from Mihama Town and Wakasa Town in a drawing! Brochures for the stamp rally are available at the participating sightseeing spots and attractions where digital stamps are placed, so please join us. “Kaiko Fest 2025” Digital Stamp Rally Campaign ■ Event period: Wednesday, October 1, 2025 – Sunday, November 30, 2025 ■ Prizes Five winners will be drawn to receive a 20,000-yen pair accommodation subsidy voucher for Wakasa and Mihama accommodations (eligible to apply after collecting five or more stamps). Ten winners will be drawn to receive a 10,000-yen accommodation subsidy voucher for Wakasa and Mihama accommodations (eligible to apply after collecting five or more stamps). Fifty winners will be drawn to receive a 2,000-yen Wakasa and Mihama shopping voucher (eligible to apply after collecting three or more stamps). Fifty winners will be drawn to receive a 3,000-yen assortment of Wakasa and Mihama local specialties (eligible to apply after collecting three or more stamps). ■ Inquiries: Mikata Goko Regional Tourism Council (Wakasa Town Tourism and Community Development Division) TEL (0770) 32-45-9111 https://platinumaps.jp/d/wakasa-mikatagoko?sr=1390...

“Sea glass” refers to fragments of glass you can find along seashores and the shores of large lakes. Their unique muted tones and delicate beauty feel like gifts from the sea. Accessories made with that sea glass are sold at “Dotto Kitamae,” located on the grounds of the Kitamaebune Shipowners’ House Ukon Family Museum! When light passes through, sea glass shines with a distinctive glow—why not add it to your new-life wardrobe for a stylish touch?

Ukon Family Museum of Kitamaebune Shipowners — Hina Dolls These dolls were a gift in Taisho 6 (1917) to Fukuko, the eldest daughter of the 11th head of the family, Mr. Gitaro, and his wife. They are on display for a limited time; for details please check the Minami-Echizen Town tourism information site.