The 17th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest is now underway! The theme of this photo contest is "Hidden Gem Tourist Attractions in Japan" We're looking forward to seeing everyone's wonderful submissions! This time, we will introduce a post by "YUSKE.TK"! It captures the unique contrast between railways and nature. The JR Tadami Line runs along the Tadami River. Located in Uonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, the area around the "Daiichi Tsuruma River Bridge" is a secluded area where you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons. From the train window, you can enjoy the countryside and valleys. ◆Daiichi Tsuruma River Bridge◆ 【Address】Uonuma City, Niigata Prefecture

"Yogasaki Ohajiki Art" in Shichigahama Town, Miyagi Prefecture It is a seawall art located in the Shirogasakihama district square facing Matsushima Bay. A concrete breakwater was built along the coastline damaged by the Great East Japan Earthquake, and with the cooperation of companies and creators active in the town, a 100-meter-long "Ohajiki Art" was created. The islands of Shiogama Bay and Matsushima Bay spread out here, and it is a very scenic place.

This is a view that can be seen from Wakakusa Inari Shrine in Tome City, Miyagi Prefecture. It's a nondescript rural landscape, but the blue sky, green countryside, and clean air make this my favorite place.

It is Goshoko Regional Park. You can experience boating and canoeing, and it is a place where many families can be seen on holidays. This place in particular is located at the edge of the lake, but if it is sunny, the surface of the water will turn golden in the evening, and it is a wonderful place where you can see a fantastic scene.

Introducing photos post "Everyone's post"! Inbound tourist information social media "COOL JAPAN VIDEOS" pickup post. Today, I would like to introduce the post of "riki oba". It is a piece that captures the harmony between clear water and greenery. Mt. Chokai is a famous peak that rises on the border of Yamagata and Akita prefectures and is one of the "100 Famous Mountains of Japan". It is a mountain facing the sea, which is rare in Japan. The altitude of the Mt. Chokai is 2,236m, and you can see the Sea of Japan from the observation deck at the 5th station. There are five climbing routes on the Mt. Chokai side on the Yamagata side and four on the Akita side, and you can climb them depending on the level of difficulty. The Hokodate Course, which has a well-maintained mountain road, is a recommended route for beginners. It has a good view and is popular with many climbers. In addition, the Ninotakiguchi, Mansukeguchi, and Nagasakaguchi routes are for advanced climbers, so it is recommended to go with experienced climbers. The Chokai Blue Line, a mountain road, is a driveway where you can comfortably climb from zero to 1,100 meters above sea level and enjoy views of nature and the ocean. The spectacular sunset view from the Blue Line is one of the highlights. Please note that it is impassable in winter The local sake "Mt. Chokai" of the long-established sake brewery "Tenju Shuzo" is a popular sake both in Japan and overseas. We are particular about Akita rice made under Mt. Chokai underground water and thorough quality control. It is a gem that has been highly regarded in global competitions. ◆Mt. Chokai◆ 【Address】Fukiura, Yuza Town, Yamagata Prefecture 【Access】By car: From Yuza Station to Fukiuraguchi Ohira about 40 minutes 【Parking】Available 300 spaces Please see the official website for details. ）

Went to Fukushima over the Golden Week holiday. On our first day we took a bus to Ouchi-Juku and had a great time looking at all the buildings and different shops. The negi soba soba with a large leek is famous there so my girlfriend ended up ordering that. She said it was a bit difficult to eat, but fun and tasted great. We also ended up trying a variety of different snacks in the area. The Age-Manju deep fried manju was really tasty and we actually ended up getting again later. I was able to take a photo from the famous photo spot at Ouchi-Juku as well photo #4. I only have an iPhone camera, so the quality isn't the best, but I'm happy with how it turned out. On the way back from Ouchi-Juku we returned via Yunokami Onsen Station and so we got to use the footbath that was attached to the station. It was a really great way to rest up after walking for so long. The station itself was also really photogenic, so I snapped a couple photos from the platform and between the railroad tracks. The hotel we were staying at for the night was in Aizu-Wakamatsu and on the way we found a nice little shop with a large akabeko cow outside and the staff was kind enough to take a photo of us with it. For dinner, we went to a place called Sassa 左雨 and had a really great time. We ended up talking to the owners for a bit and they were super nice. It was also the best tonkatsu I've eaten in my entire life. It was cooked tp perfection, and the dressing that came with the salad and cabbage matched perfectly with it. We probably ended up eating way too many fried foods but it was all really tasty. The next day we visited Tsuruga Castle. The castle was quite cool, but it was a bit more crowded than Ouchi-Juku. Considering it was Golden Week, it wasn't much of a surprise. Either way we had a great time. We started off going for a boat ride around the moat I got my daily exercise in, as I was rowing the whole time lol. After that we went up into the castle and were able to see a view of the city from the top which was pretty cool. There were also live performances going on in the field in front of the castle which were fun to watch. At that point it was about lunch time so we went over to the row of food stalls photo #16 and grabbed a bite to eat. There were shops selling all sorts of goods as well, so we spent some time window shopping. After Tsuruga Castle, we went to Oyakuen Garden 御薬園. We ended up sharing a green tea by the pond and relaxing for a bit which was nice. There were a lot of koi inside the pond and a variety of birds flying around as well, so the atmosphere was very relaxing. Photo #20 is supposedly the best view in the garden it was written on a sign so I snapped a photo of it. The photo doesn't do it justice, but it was a really incredible view. All in all, we had a really amazing time in Fukushima, but we definitely would like to visit again, as there's a lot we didn't get to do still. I really wanted to try an akabeko workshop but we didn't get the chance, which was a bit disappointing, but we still had a lot of fun, so I can't complain. I definitely recommend visiting Aizu-Wakamatsu if you have the chance!

It is Okenuma in Bandai Asahi National Park, Fukushima Prefecture. You can see it from the top of the Mt. Azuma-kofuji. It was a beautiful place with a dark blue water surface in the remaining snow. It was hard to go there to see it at this time. If you can see it up close, you will definitely be impressed.

Golden Week trip to the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture. The resting places I happened to pass were Tagokura Dam and Lake Tagokura. The dam and lake spread, and the mountains mixed with the remaining snow reflected on the surface of the lake were very beautiful. It is a healing spot that can be said to be a secret place.

It is an old stratovolcano facing the Mt. Azuma-kofuji of Okenuma in Bandai Asahi National Park in Fukushima Prefecture and the southern part of Jododaira. At the end of April, when I went to see the fresh green and blue lake, there was still a lot of snow. It was difficult to get to the shooting location, but I was impressed by the natural beauty reflected in the dark blue surface of the dark blue lake with the remaining snow on the lakeside and the fresh greenery of the trees that have begun to sprout! It is a recommended hidden gem.

The only national park in the Tohoku region, "National Michinoku Mori Lakeside Park" In spring, colorful flowers such as rape blossoms and tulips are in full bloom, and you can also see historical kominka representing the six prefectures of Tohoku.

Sow cherry blossoms at the Umanohakanotane Makizakura in Aizumisato Town, Fukushima Prefecture A 300-year-old Benihiganzakura cherry tree. It is said that it is a cherry tree that tells the village when it is time to sow the seeds. A single cherry blossom was shining beautifully in the setting sun. The old car in the foreground is also an accent. Let's go see such cherry blossoms again next year.

With Mt. Iwate, known as "Nanbu Katafuji," in the background, Koiwai Farm's single cherry blossoms stand in a vast meadow. It is an imposing cherry tree with a height of about 20 meters and is said to be more than 100 years old. The sight of a single cherry blossom blooming dignified against the background of the majestic Mt. Iwate where snow remains is said to be a symbol of spring in Shizukuishi Town. The contrast between the colorful cherry blossoms and the lush meadows was enough to see the unique scenery of the farm.

In Fukushima. When I went on a trip, I happened to know Goshikinuma and walked for two hours. It was so beautiful that I forgot that I walked for 2 hours! !! One of them!

This is the view from the "Pine Park of the West Line" where you can overlook the cherry blossoms and Matsushima Bay. Especially the cherry blossoms at sunrise are so beautiful that I sigh.

★ The 16th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest is currently being ★ held under the theme of "Sightseeing spots Japan to visit in spring" We look forward to receiving many applications from you! This time, we will introduce the post of "Kazmisa KazMisa"! The magnificent view of the Zao mountain range and cherry blossoms is superb. Funaoka Castle Park is a famous spot for cherry blossoms that has been selected as one of the "Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots" Japan. Every spring, 2,500 cherry trees bloom and are crowded with many tourists. In addition, the "Funaoka Peace Kannon Statue" standing in the park is 24 meters high and is a popular tourist spot as a symbol of Shibata Town. ◆Funaoka Castle Park◆ 【Address】 〒989-1606 Miyagi Prefecture, Shibata-gun, Shibata-cho, Funaokadateyama 95-1 【Access】 Get off at JR Funaoka Station and walk for about 15 minutes. 【Parking】Available for 350 cars free

Went on a trip to Sendai last weekend and had an awesome time. We were only there for 2 days and 1 night, but we managed to do everything we wanted to. On the first day we arrived at Sendai Station the beautiful stained glass in photo #1 and had lunch, after which we headed over to our hotel, dropped off our bags, and then headed off to do some sightseeing. Our first stop was Funaoka Castle Park. The cherry blossoms were really nice and there was a cherry blossom festival or something like that taking place and there were some food stalls as wells, so we picked up some snacks and relaxed for a bit. We were able to see the large Kannon statue from a distance but opted not to go all the way to the top because we had some other stuff planned. After Funaoka Castle Park we made our way towards Shiroishi Castle. On the way to the castle from Funaoka Castle Park there’s the famous Hitome Senbon-Zakura, which we were able to enjoy for the entire walk to the castle. The cherry blossoms along the river were quite the treat. During our walk to the castle, we came across another cherry blossom festival with more food stalls. We had a couple more snacks and enjoyed the views before heading towards the station to get to Shiroishi Castle. As we were walking to the castle I found some cool art on some shop shutters. The path leading up to the castle was dotted with lanterns and was really pretty, especially as it was nearing sunset. We arrived at the castle with just a bit of sunlight left and we were just lucky enough to take some nice photos. After the castle, we had some dinner at a nice Izakaya and headed back to Sendai Station where our hotel was. The first day was all about seeing the beautiful views of cherry blossoms, but the second day we decided to enjoy the history and culture of the area. We started off by visiting Zuihoden, the mausoleum for Date Masamune. On the approach to the complex, we saw some interesting buildings where we stopped to take pictures and check out the architecture. The row of trees lining the steps to Zuihoden reminded me of the famous row of trees at Togakushi Shrine in Nagano. There were a lot of different structures, and learning about the history and what they were all built for was really interesting. Unfortunately I have too many photos and can’t post them all here. After we finished up at Zuihoden, which took a while because I wanted to read every single sign that we came across, we headed over to Sendai Castle Aoba Castle. Again, I have too many photos to post, so I’ll just leave it to the famous statue of Date Masamune. The view from the top of the castle was quite nice and the other structures around the castle grounds were really interesting to learn about as well. After the castle, we were running out of time, and so we decided to start making our way back to Sendai Station. We ended up getting off a few stations early because my girlfriend had read that there was an event at Nishi Park. I can’t post all of the photos, but it was a really big cherry blossom festival with food stalls, etc. I highly recommend visiting Sendai during spring, as it’s definitely worth the trip. Most of the places we visited were not crowded at all, and we had an awesome trip.

Like last time, this is the view from the observation deck of "Funaoka Castle Ruins Park". The collaboration between the Ichimoku Senbon cherry blossoms and the Zao mountain range of residual snow was a masterpiece.

"Ichimoku Senbon cherry blossoms" blooming proudly against the background of the Zao mountain range of residual snow The row of cherry blossom trees, centered on more than 1,200 Somei Yoshino, is said to be about 8 km long.

Known as one of the most famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Tohoku, "Cherry blossoms in Funaoka Castle Ruins Park" It is the only one in Miyagi Prefecture that has been selected as one of the "100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots". In particular, the view from the observatory is wonderful, and the "Ichimoku Senbonzakura" lined up along the river is a superb view.

Hirosaki Sakura Festival 🤗 During last year's Golden Week, during the Kagoshima-Hokkaido driving trip, I went to the Sakura Festival in Hirosaki Park, Aomori Prefecture. The cherry blossoms against the background of Mt. Iwaki, where the snow still remains, were 🥰 very beautiful. Now I miss wearing 😌 a mask as a measure against corona.

Introducing the photos posted on "Everyone's Post"! This is a pickup post of the inbound tourism information SNS "Cool Japan Video". Today, I would like to introduce a post by "Lily0321". The scenery of the cherry blossom tunnel and railway full of nature is impressive. Ashino Park, located in Kaneki-cho, Goshogawara City, Aomori Prefecture, is about 800,000 square meters in size and is famous for the Tsugaru Railway Tsugaru Railway Line running in the park. In addition, the famous cherry blossom spot has been selected as one of the "100 best cherry blossom spots in Japan". During the cherry blossom season, it is crowded with local people and tourists. The cherry blossoms in Ashino Park are in full bloom in late April ~ early May every year, and the "Kaneki Cherry Blossom Festival" is held at the same time. One of the highlights is the contrast between the approximately 1,500 cherry trees and pine trees that bloom in the park. The cherry blossom tunnel that stretches over the tracks of Ashino Koen Station and the sight of the Tsugaru Railway "Run Meros" are also popular photo spots. In 2022, it was also lit up from 6:00 pm. Implementation in 2023 is undecided. Please check the official website. ） The red-roofed coffee shop "Station Building" in the station building of the former Ashino Koen Station is a must-see. The building is designated as a registered tangible cultural property and is a café full of retro atmosphere. Old telephones and old ticket offices are still in the store. Meals are substantial from the standard coffee shop menu, and the specialty is "Gekima Kanagi Curry" using horse meat. The Kaneki area has had a culture of eating horse meat since ancient times. There is also a free campsite in the park that can be used free of charge. No check-in or check-out is required. It faces Lake Ashino and you can enjoy the natural scenery. ◆Ashino Park◆ 【Address】〒037-0202 Aomori Prefecture, Goshogawara City, Kaneki-cho Ashino 【Access】 Get off at Tsugaru Railway Ashino Koen Station

Introducing the photos posted on "Everyone's Post"! This is a pickup post of the inbound tourism information SNS "Cool Japan Video". Today, I would like to introduce a post by "Saori Yamakawa". The vast rape blossoms and mountain ridges are impressive photos. Koiwai Farm is a private farm located in Shizukuishi, Iwate District, Iwate Prefecture, Japan. The approximately 40-hectare tourist area, which is open as a makiba garden, is full of various leisure spots. There is also a wealth of nature where you can enjoy the four seasons, and the superb view of rape blossoms blooming along the prefectural road from around Koiwai Station and the rows of cherry blossom trees blooming in the park are also a must-see. You can easily interact with animals such as horseback riding, Toro carriages, and treats for ponies. Sheep grazing and sheep snack time are also highlights. In the Makiba Hall, you can also experience a workshop where you can make key chains and photo frames using wool and wood from Koiwai Farm. How about a one-of-a-kind souvenir in the world? Various events are held throughout the four seasons. The "Early Spring Makiba Festa" held in spring is full of projects unique to this season, such as special tours by tractor and walks in the forest. The park's restaurant also offers a spring-only menu. The illuminations held in winter are said to be the largest in Tohoku and are popular every year. You can enjoy it at the restaurants and cafes in Koiwai Farm, and gourmet foods such as Genghis Khan and sweets are also popular. You can also enjoy dishes using farm-grown ingredients at FARM DINING & CAFE Koiwai Farm Tokyo in Tokyo, a restaurant directly managed by Koiwai Farm in Tokyo. Japanese black beef is a popular gem. It is easily accessible from Tokyo Station and is recommended for lunch, dinner, and banquets. ◆Koiwai Farm◆ 【Address】〒020-0507 Iwate Prefecture, Iwate District, Shizukuishi-cho Marutanichi 36-1 【Access】 By car: Tohoku Expressway Morioka IC about 15 minutes / 12 km About 30~40 minutes by taxi from JR Morioka Station

★ The 16th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest is currently being ★ held under the theme of "Sightseeing spots Japan to visit in spring" We look forward to receiving many applications from you! This time, we will introduce "Bubu"'s post! The cherry blossom arch is beautiful. The Hirosaki Sakura Festival is a popular event held at Hirosaki Park in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, to coincide with the blooming of cherry blossoms. The best time to see the cherry blossoms is usually around late April ~ early May. The highlight is the superb view of the "Cherry Blossom Tunnel" that stretches for 300 meters. In addition, it is lit up and you can enjoy the cherry blossoms at night. ◆Hirosaki Sakura Festival◆ 【Event Period】April 21 Fri ~ May 5 Fri, 2023 【Venue】Hirosaki Park 【Address】〒036-8356 Aomori Prefecture, Hirosaki City, Shimoshirogane-cho 1 【Access】 Bus: Take the 100-yen bus Dotemachi Circulation Bus from Hirosaki Station and get off at "Shiyakusho-mae Koen Iriguchi" Walk: About 30 minutes on foot from Hirosaki Station

Hamada in Rifu Town Here is the "horse's back" that stretches towards the sea. This "horse's back" took on its present form due to the erosion of waves over a long period of time. It is said to be a "natural pier" because it protrudes into the sea for about 250 meters.

In the world of narnia. My today's recommendation is mount Zao. Its really a winter wonderland. All the trees are cover with snow. This phenomenon is observed due to the very cold Siberian wind. It was taken from the ropeway. The image is slightly hazy due to the glass of the ropeway. Truly very beautiful place

Continuing from the last time, it is a kamakura in Omonogawa Minkaen Kido Gorobei Village in Yokote City, Akita Prefecture.

At Omonogawa Minkaen Kido Gorobei Village in Yokote City, Akita Prefecture The "Kamakura" event was being held. The compatibility between this dog-shaped kamakura and kominka, Above all, I was happy to experience the feeling of time slipping.

Bells of Lore This monument is located in Onagawa Town, Oshika District, Miyagi Prefecture. This is the place that was damaged by the tsunami caused by the Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11, 2011. It's been 12 years this year, and the zodiac signs are just turning around At that juncture, I came here for the first time in 20 years to visit my friend's grave. That tragic natural disaster stole the smiles of many people Even so, the townspeople did not lose and desperately rebuilt the town. Such a monument that will pass on the tragic reality and the courage of the townspeople to future generations I hope you will visit us once. "Visiting the town" I feel like this is the number one support.

Introducing the photos posted on "Everyone's Post"! This is a pickup post of the inbound tourism information SNS "Cool Japan Video". Today, I would like to introduce "Daishi Okamoto's post "Tadami Line and Snowy Scenery". The Tadami line surrounded by a world of white silver is an impressive piece. The Tadami Line is a local line 65 km after the fastest speed connecting Koide Station Uonuma City, Niigata Prefecture to Aizuwakamatsu Station Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture. It was damaged by heavy rain in July 2011, but on October 1, 2022, it was restored and resumed operation for the first time in 11 years. The Tadami Line, which runs through nature, is full of spectacular scenic spots. The first bridge, which has an attractive contrast between the iron bridge and nature, is especially popular, and you can enjoy the superb view of the four seasons. In addition, there are plenty of photo spots such as the 2nd ~ 4th bridge and the glasses bridge featuring a concrete arch bridge. It is a tourist destination where railway fans from all over the country gather. The Tadami Line is a hot topic for autumn leaves, but the snowy scenery in winter is also recommended. Between Aizu-Nakagawa Station ~ Aizukawaguchi Station, the snow-covered Oshi village is one of the viewpoints. From the 5th Tadami River Bridge, if the conditions are right, you can enjoy the world of white silver reflected in the Tadami River. ◆Tadami Line◆ 【Address】Fukushima, Niigata Starting point: Aizuwakamatsu Station End point: Koide Station

Octopus Yakushido "Octopus Yakushido" in Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture The shrine here enshrines an octopus 🐙 as the name suggests. A long time ago, when a flood hit this area, a statue of an octopus was discovered. It became the current shrine in honor of it.