Tokyo is an amazing city with a vibrant history that truly comes alive during its festivals. One of the highlights is the kanda matsuri, which takes place at the beautiful kanda myojin shrine. The lively mikoshi parade is filled with joy and cultural charm, making it a fantastic experience for everyone.

Tokyo is an amazing city with a vibrant history that truly comes alive during its festivals. One of the highlights is the kanda matsuri, which takes place at the beautiful kanda myojin shrine. The lively mikoshi parade is filled with joy and cultural charm, making it a fantastic experience for everyone.

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 "Dry Shiitake Day" 🍄 To commemorate this, we will Held in a "Dry Shiitake Fair" on Saturday, July 5th! 📍 Venue: Morokko House Car Parking Lot 🕘 Opening hours: 9:00 – 16:00 ✨ ✨ Events ・Freshly baked! Behavior of dried shiitake mushrooms ・ All-you-can-eat dried shiitake mushrooms & kikurage stuffing! ・Tasting 🍵 of Morotsuka Village's oolong tea "Kiyokamori Tea" ・ Village Specialty and summer vegetables are also 🍅🥬 sold This is an Events that can be enjoyed by both children and Adults! Please 😊 come and visit us with your family and friends

~Going to meet the "happiness" flower, Renge Shoma-Climbing Kurodake in summer~ Around the time of Obon, the phantom flower "KiRenge Shoma" 🌼 begins to bloom quietly in the mountains Designated as an endangered species II on the Ministry of the Environment's Red List and attracting attention in NHK's TV series, this flower is said to make you happy when you see it. In the past, Renge Shoma used to grow in clusters around Morotsuka Village and Mt. Kurodake, but now their numbers have decreased greatly due to the effects of deer eating damage. Now, Local people are barely holding on to their lives in the limited area where conservation activities continue. Kurodake has been designated as an "Important Habitat" by Miyazaki Prefecture, and in addition to Renge Shoma, it is a precious treasure trove of nature with many rare mountain wildflowers and wild animals unique to Kyushu. On this mountaineering tour, you will be accompanied by a local guide, and you will be able to enjoy the rich forest while guiding you through rare plants and commentary on Nature. 🟡 【Outline of the Kurodake Mountaineering Tour】 📅 Date: Saturday, August 23 and Sunday, August 24, 9:00-16:00 📍 Meeting: Obarai Community Center (*Leading from Shiitake Museum 21 is also possible) 🎒 Subject: 3 years old or older (minimum 4 participants / maximum 10 participants) 💰 Fee: Adult 5,000 yen / Child 4,000 yen (lunch and guide fee included) 📝 Application Deadline: Saturday, August 16 Climbing difficulty: ★★ ☆☆☆ (for beginners ~ intermediates) 🌱 Please wear comfortable clothing, mountaineering boots, or non-slip athletic shoes. 🌼 A special day of summer when you meet a phantom flower. We look forward to your participation!

Bungo-Ono City Tourism Association Original Tote Bag We have created an original tote bag for the Bungo-Ono City Tourism Association. There are two types available. These tote bags are perfect for outings, shopping, and walks. They are made of sturdy, easy-to-use canvas fabric and can hold A4 size. Price: 1,100 yen (tax included) [Sales Location and Inquiries] Bungo-Ono City Tourism Association Business hours: 9:00–17:00, open year-round (excluding New Year holidays) Phone: 0974-27-4215

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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■

[July 7th] is Tanabata 🎋🌌 In front of the central community center in Morotsuka Village, they made strips of paper with wishes and origami Cute chicks are decorated 🌟 with bamboo Just looking at it makes my heart warm 😊 Why don't you write a wonderful wish? 💫

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/...

#009 There are about 50 restaurants and confectionery shops in Tsunocho. This is the second installment of our gourmet series! Opened in May 2019, this udon shop has become popular even outside Tsunocho, and we would like to introduce it here. — Now firmly a "Tsuno specialty" — Hinoya Udon After exiting Tono IC on the Higashi-Kyushu Expressway, turn left at the first traffic light and go a short distance; you will see a sign reading "udon" on your left. That is Hinoya Udon, the shop featured this time. The parking lot is usually full at lunchtime. Here are Hinoya Udon’s recommended menu items, a lesser-known dessert, and advice on the best times to visit. ◆ Recommended menu (including my personal picks) 〇 Vegetable Tempura Bukkake Udon They source vegetables from Roadside Station Tsuno and directly from local farmers, so the vegetables are all from Tsunocho. The vegetables are sweet and the batter is crispy! It’s addictive!! 〇 Meat and Egg Bukkake Udon The simmered beef pairs perfectly with the broth and soft-boiled egg—really delicious!!! I recommend this to students and meat-udon lovers. By the way, it’s my personal favorite. (laughs) You can also enjoy seasonal choices like Ume Oroshi Bukkake Udon and cold Zaru Udon, as well as set menus combining udon and tempura. Now for a dessert that surprisingly many people don’t know about. It’s the homemade soy milk pudding. In fact, some customers come specifically for this pudding. I sometimes go just for it myself. But it tastes best after udon! Even the fact that it’s homemade makes it appealing. The pudding is topped with kuromitsu (black sugar syrup) and kinako (roasted soybean flour); its silky texture and gentle sweetness deliver a moving experience unlike any I have had before. I lived in Kagawa while at university, so I ate many firm, delicious udon dishes. However, Hinoya Udon’s noodles have good bite, and you can sense their dedication to the broth and ingredients. For me, Hinoya Udon is uniquely superb and the most delicious. I was impressed by the owner’s attention to detail and delicacy. If you stop by Tsunocho, be sure to come and try these exquisite udon. Finally, when is the best time to go? On weekdays, come right at opening or after 1:30 PM. Depending on the day, these times work best! On holidays, the shop is generally full! ◆ Shop information Hours 11:00 AM–2:30 PM Closed Tuesday (occasional irregular closures) ☎ 0983-32-8311 Instagram ⇒ @hinoyaudon

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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Every year when Children's Day approaches, Carp streamers swim out on the river. On this day, the wind was light and the scene of the Carp streamers reflecting on the surface of the water was beautiful. It is not a particularly large or famous river, but I wanted to cherish this scenery that has been passed down by the local people.

#008 [Tourist Spot Feature Part 2 ✨] Introducing Tsuno Winery, a sightseeing spot with panoramic views of Tsunocho! We’ll do our best to make this a place you’ll want to visit! Tsuno Wine has won numerous awards at home and abroad, and Tsuno Winery, where that wine is made, is full of charm. Here we introduce that wine and the winery. ◆About Tsuno Wine Because Miyazaki Prefecture traditionally has a shochu culture, wine never took hold easily, and the region was said to be an unfavorable environment for grape growing. Even so, the foundation built by Momoto Eitomo 102 has been handed down, and Tsuno Wine is made with the ambition to create wines that can compete on the world stage. Tsuno Wine is known for its Campbell Early rosé, which was actually selected in 2004 for the Wine Report’s “World’s Top 100 Wines,” and this rosé still attracts many repeat customers. Every year many of their wines win awards at domestic and international competitions, drawing buyers from within and beyond the prefecture as well as online customers from overseas. They also offer wines that are easy to drink for those who usually dislike wine, and even wines made with Miyazaki’s famous mangoes. So what kind of place is the Tsuno Winery where these wines are produced? ◆What kind of place is Tsuno Winery? Tsuno Winery sits on the Makiuchi Plateau, surrounded by Hyūga Nada and the Mount Osuzu range, offering sweeping views over Tsunocho. The site is famous as a night-view spot and for unbeatable views of the town’s fireworks. The site includes a shop with wine and a bakery, a wine brewery, and vineyards, and offers guided tours. You normally can’t enter the brewery, so it’s hard to know exactly how it’s laid out, but there is a spot in the shop where you can glimpse inside. You’ll be surprised by the size of the machinery! I haven’t personally been to the vineyards, but there is a row of grapevines by the parking lot, so you can get a pseudo-experience. And above all, the shop! It carries dozens of wines with detailed descriptions, making it easy even for beginners to choose. If you still can’t decide, someone knowledgeable about wine is usually nearby to ask. Beyond wine, the shop stocks many snacks that pair well with the wines, giving wine lovers a delightful dilemma. The shop also houses a bakery, attracting many visitors who come just for the bread. The selection is wide and changes day by day, which adds to the fun. When you visit Tsunocho, be sure to stop by. Next time in our tourist spot feature, we’ll cover the town’s roadside gateway, Roadside Station Tsuno. Stay tuned!!

【Isaribi】 Squid fishing is in its heyday. At night, Isaribi sparkles off the coast of Hatsu and is very beautiful. Held in beach bars. While admiring the romantic Isaribi, you can relax with a Sake on the beach. #Okagaki Town #Okagaki Town Tourism Association #Hatsu Coast #Big Dipper #Squid fishing #Isaribi #Beach bar

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.🤩✨

Thank you for waiting!! This year again, a fresh-picked corn sale will take place at Kaigobaru Vegetable Fields (kaigobaru yasai batake). Corn you harvest yourself tastes exceptional. Come enjoy the flavors of summer with everyone!! Date: Saturday and Sunday, July 5–6, 2025, 9:00–15:00 *Held in light rain; ends when sold out* Location: Kaigobaru Vegetable Fields (Kaba 1828) Price: On sale — 150 yen per ear What to bring: Clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, plastic shopping bags, small change Contact: Kaigobaru Hometown Lovers Association 090-7534-2621: Ikematsu (hours 9:00–17:00) Notes: - If you’ll harvest corn, we recommend clothes that can get dirty, work gloves, and rubber boots. - Bringing an eco bag is also recommended. - No advance registration required. - Held in light rain (in bad weather sales may be limited to produce only). - The event ends when stock runs out. Kaigobaru Vegetable Fields (next to Arao Olive Village)

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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■

"Arao Tideland Day" Commemorative Tideland Wildlife Observation Event Saturday, July 5, 2025 Arao Tideland is home to many creatures such as crabs and hermit crabs. Come and learn the names and characteristics of tideland wildlife you don't usually see. Date and time: Saturday, July 5, 9:30 AM–12:00 PM (Registration from 9:00 AM)※Canceled in case of severe weather Backup date: Sunday, July 6 Location: Arao Tideland Waterfowl and Wetland Center Participants: Families including elementary and junior high school students Capacity: First 15 groups, free of charge What to bring: Rubber boots, work gloves, water bottle, hat (for heatstroke prevention), writing materials How to apply: Apply by phone Application start: Monday, June 2, from 9:00 AM Contact and application: Secretariat of the Arao Tideland Conservation and Wise Use Council Phone: 0968-63-1386 (Environmental Conservation Division)"

🌟 The House of Fireflies has been powered up and renovated OPEN.🌟 "Firefly Village Vacation Village Firefly House" in Kitagawa Town Finally reopened 🎉 on April 1, 2025 ✨ How has it changed? ✔ Exhibition rooms, training rooms, Toilets and showers have been renewed! ✔ The entrance has been transformed 🌿 into a Lawn square ✔ Large playground equipment is also new, and children are delighted 🎠 🎒 Lots of experiences! Broadcasting UNESCO Eco Park and outdoor Information, You can ✨ also have simulated experiences such as canoeing, mountain climbing, and nature observation There is also a nursing room and shower room, so it is safe 😊 for families. 📣And... Highlights of this renewal! Nobeoka City's "NPO Himuka Impression Experience World (Nove☆sta)" is in charge of operation as a designated administratorUtilizing ✨ its expertise, a Authentic experience program by outdoor specialists has been realized! This is the base point facilities of "Grandmother, Tilt, Collapse UNESCO Eco Park" / And \ "The central Spot of outdoor tourism in Nobeoka City" / Learning, Experience, and Contact with Nature It has 🌱 been reborn as a new base point with everything in place 🏕 Accommodation is also OK! The camping area starts at ¥2,200 per night. Use of bicycle rental and training rooms is also substantial! You can also have ♪ a training camp in nature 🚗 Access is also convenient! 5 minutes by Car from Kitagawa IC! 5 minutes walk from Kitagawa Station! 📞 For inquiries and reservations, please contact the House of Fireflies TEL: 0982-27-4740 Go to the "House of Fireflies" where💨 you can enjoy Nature, learning, and play Come and play with the whole family! 💚✨ NPO Himuka Impression Experience World (Nove☆Star) http://en.nobe-star.com// Contact us http://en.nobe-star.com/contact...

Shiyama Shrine "Wish-Setting Festival: Passing Through the Chino-wa (Ring of Miscanthus)" Friday, June 13, 2025, from 10:00 AM [Ritual] From 10:00 AM on Friday, June 13, 2025 [Chino-wa Crossing] From Friday the 13th until 4:00 PM on Sunday the 15th At Shiyama Shrine on the 13th, the Wish-Setting Festival and the Great Purification of Midsummer will take place. Anyone may attend the shrine ritual on the day. If you visit Shiyama Shrine 20 to 10 minutes before the ritual begins, you can receive a katashiro (paper human) for the katashiro ceremony. In the katashiro ceremony, write your name and age on the paper doll (hitokata), breathe on it and stroke it, transfer and cleanse half of this year’s sins and impurities, and pray for good health and a safe summer for the rest of the year. For vehicle katashiro, write the owner’s name and the vehicle number, stroke the vehicle body or key to cleanse impurities and misfortune, and pray for safe driving. When you leave the katashiro at Shiyama Shrine, prayers for good health and traffic safety will be offered at the Wish-Setting Festival. From the 13th until 4:00 PM on the 15th, the Chino-wa Crossing will be held. Pass through the large ring made of kaya (miscanthus) leaves to cleanse the sins and impurities of the past six months, and pray for health and safety for the remaining six months—this traditional event is part of the midsummer Great Purification observed at many shrines across the country at the year’s midpoint. Shiyama Shrine 818 Oshima, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture 864-0057 Phone: 0968-62-1390 A 15-minute walk from Arao Station on the JR Kagoshima Main Line

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 🙇‍♀️🌸

#007 [Tourist Spot Feature Part 1 ✨] Introducing Tsuno’s signature attraction, Tsuno Shrine, the primary shrine of Hyūga Province! We’ll do our best to make you want to visit! Beloved by townspeople as “Ichinomiya Shrine,” Tsuno Shrine plays an essential role in telling Miyazaki’s myths. I touched on Tsuno Shrine in #001, but there was still much I couldn’t cover and some parts I glossed over. Here I’ll offer a clear, inviting explanation to make you want to come. ◆Origin of the shrine’s name The name Hyūga Province Ichinomiya Tsuno Shrine comes from the tradition that Emperor Jimmu, six years before his enthronement, prayed here for peace across the land during his eastward journey and enshrined the deity. Hence it became an ichinomiya, the highest-ranked shrine of the province. Because the area now called Tsuno was once part of Hyūga Province, the shrine is revered as the province’s ichinomiya. This shrine is known as the most prestigious shrine in Hyūga Province. It thus became known specifically as Hyūga Province’s Ichinomiya, Tsuno Shrine, located in Tsuno Town. ◆Emperor Jimmu’s eastward journey Six years before becoming the first emperor, Emperor Jimmu is said to have stopped here during his eastward journey to pray for peace on land, calm seas, and continued military fortune. He reportedly sharpened arrows at Yatogi Falls on Mt. Osuzu before moving east. As mentioned in #003, the name Yatogi Falls comes from that episode. ◆Founding history According to old records, this shrine once stood as the foremost grand shrine of Hyūga Province, but during the Sengoku conflicts between the Shimazu and Otomo clans in the Tensho era, Otomo forces burned the shrine buildings, treasures, and ancient documents to ashes. The sacred object was spared after being evacuated to the foot of Mt. Osuzu. For many years after the conflict, no major rebuilding occurred and only a small shrine remained. In Genroku 5, Akizuki Tane-masa restored the shrine, and in Ansei 6 benefactors donated a new main hall. Later, as the buildings aged, the Gozouei Housankai (Shrine Reconstruction Support Association) was established in Heisei 14, and the current main shrine was completed on July 7, Heisei 19. ◆Divine virtues (goshintoku) The shrine enshrines Ōnamuchi no Mikoto. Ōnamuchi took many wives and fathered many children, and from this tradition he became revered as a deity of matchmaking and fertility. Because he established medical practices and helped many people, he is also venerated as a deity of medicine and recovery from illness. Together with Sukuna Hikona no Mikoto, he cooperated in nation-building, and so he is also worshipped as a patron of enterprise development and commercial prosperity. ◆How to properly tour Tsuno Shrine When visiting tourist spots and public facilities, please observe proper manners. - Tsuno Shrine has torii gates facing east and south. Most visitors enter through the south gate near Roadside Station Tsuno, but be sure to bow once before passing under any torii. - The center of the approach is the path for the kami; walk along the sides. - At the temizuya (purification fountain), cleanse your hands and mouth. Some may wonder why this is done, but it is preparation for entering a sacred space—a simplified form of the ancient rite of misogi. - Next, at the haiden (worship hall), perform two bows, two claps, and one bow. After that, it’s common to draw a fortune slip (omikuji) or buy an amulet and enjoy exploring. - In recent years, many visitors collect goshuin (red ink shrine stamps). I keep my goshuincho in the car. Tsuno Shrine is known for monthly limited goshuin designs. For example, March may feature illustrations for the Doll Festival, showing the imperial couple, and there are even designs limited to the first three days of the year. When the illustration changes each month, you’ll want to collect them all! - On the shrine grounds, there are objects to touch that are believed to grant blessings: statues connected to matchmaking and child blessings, Daikoku representing business success and child blessings, and a rabbit symbol for health and recovery. When you visit, be sure to give them a gentle rub. - In the parking area at Tsuno Shrine you’ll find Ichinomiya Shokudo, famous for udon and soba. After worshipping, eating udon before heading to the next sightseeing spot is a common choice. Even on weekdays, the restaurant can fill up. ◆Major festivals and events at Tsuno Shrine - Tsuno Shrine Summer Grand Festival (August 1–2) - Winter Reitaisai (early December) - Saitan-sai (New Year’s Day ceremony) (January 1) - Setsubun Tsuina ceremony (February 3) - Musubi Festival (early February) Tsuno Town offers many attractions, from well-known sights to spots only locals know. This time we introduced Hyūga Province’s ichinomiya, Tsuno Shrine. Next up is Tsuno Winery—stay tuned for the next post.