Exhibit the pumpkins 🎃 you have grown! We are looking for pumpkin contest participants! 1 Application deadline 2025 (Reiwa 7)Friday, May 30 2 How to apply Phone to the Takaharucho Tourism Association or apply from Google form. 3 Distribution date 2025 (Reiwa 7) June 2 (Mon) ~ 4 (Water) 9 a.m. ~ 5 p.m. 4 Distribution location: Takaharucho Tourism Association (JR Takaharu Station) 5 4 types of pots (seedlings) to distribute Atlantic Giant (Ornamental) ・Fukuebisu (edible) ・Korinky (edible) ・Butter nuts (edible) [About the details of the pumpkin contest] ・ Pumpkin delivery: September 11 (Thursday) ~ September 13 (Saturday) 9 o'clock in 2025 (Reiwa 7) Delivered at 12 o'clock. ・ Viewing / Instant sale: September 13 (Sat) ~ 15 (Mon. holiday) in 2025 (Reiwa 7) 9 a.m. ~ 4 p.m. * The contest venue and delivery location are Ojibaru Park Jimmu no Kan. * Viewing and immediate sale on the 13th (Saturday) from 13:00 ~ 16:00. * Thereare a participation prize for those who exhibited pumpkins. * Luxurious supplementary prizes are available for the winners. (Thereare many other categories such as weight, color, shape, etc.) [Google Form: Application ↓↓] https://docs.google.com/.../1nB.../edit... --Inquiry-- Takaharucho Tourism Association 0984-42-4560

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!

Higo Green Melon, a specialty of Kikuchi City, is now in season! Higo Green Melon grows larger than ordinary melons, with thicker, very tender flesh. It also contains plenty of water and juice, with a sugar content of 14 degrees or higher. Higo Green Melon is in season from late April through early July. It is mainly produced in Shichijo Town, Kikuchi City. Shichijo Town is blessed with clear spring water selected among Kumamoto’s Top 100 Famous Waters, such as Maekawa and Shimizu springs. Rich in minerals and oxygen, this water helps grow delicious melons. Producers tend the melons every day without rest, which ensures careful attention and results in sweet melons with beautifully netted rinds. Higo Green Melons are mainly sold at Roadside Station Shichijo Melon Dome in Shichijo Town. All melons sold at the Melon Dome undergo strict sugar tests with an optical sensor. Only melons that meet the sugar level of 14 degrees or higher are displayed for sale. Introducing Kikuchi’s proud specialty, the Higo Green Melon! To share this deliciousness and charm with many people, we have planned a special hands-on program! Title “Play Sommelier and Judge Sweetness♪ Sugar Level Challenge & Ultimate Melon Parfait Making in Kikuchi” In this program, you will make a parfait lavishly using Higo Green Melon. The melons used for the parfait are specially managed for the event date. Therefore, you will taste perfectly ripened, sweet melons on the day. We will use a generous half melon per parfait, making it satisfying to eat and great for photos. We will also top the melon with rich milk soft serve from Toride Farm. Garnishes will include strawberries grown in Kikuchi. Why not try making an original melon parfait you can’t find anywhere else? In addition to making the parfait, each participant will receive one whole melon to take home so you can enjoy it with your family. The take-home melon will be measured with the sugar sensor on site. You will be asked to guess the sugar level of the melon you selected. Those who guess the exact sugar level will receive a prize. We look forward to your participation♪ Please make reservations by scanning the photo QR code. Date: Saturday and Sunday, June 14–15, 2025 (20 participants per day) Time: 10:00–12:30 Place: Roadside Station Shichijo Melon Dome Participation fee: 7,700 yen per person Contact Kikuchi Tourism Association Address: 1273-1 Kumafu, Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture 861-1331 TEL: 0968-25-0513

🍵 Yamashigi no Kama Roasted Tea 🍵 The delicious season 🍵 of New Tea Raised kama-roasted tea grown in Yamashigi no Mori is now available! A forest kominka in the mountains over 600 meters Elevation "Yamashigi no Mori" This kominka house, which is over 140 years old, was used as an important place for transportation in the era when there were no cars. It was crowded. In the old days, travelers and luggage exchanges were not in the lowlands along the river, but on the ridges with a good view. They were going back and forth. Raised sprouts that have grown in such a forest of yamashigi, Made in the old-fashioned way, this "Yamashigi no Kamaricha 🍵" It was made only with the most tea. When it comes to the Golden Week season, the houses with tea plantations are all about tea picking. Several tea factories in the Village are in full operation from morning to night. Gari's kama-roasted tea was also made in such a situation. Until it reaches everyone's house, it is a "boxed" that has never left Morotsuka. It's kama-fried. (Actually, it arrives in a bag) Kamaricha is a manufacturing method that the people of Morotsuka have been making for a long time. It was introduced from China a long time ago and now remains only here and there in Kyushu. Tea distributed nationwide accounts for only about 0.02%. Squid with a hint of sweetness and a little aroma. Squid tea leaves after boiling and waiting for a while, pour it in, drink it quickly and drink the third cup of tea leaves It is "kamaka" that opens up sufficiently and drifts in. It is popular in Morotsuka Village, but it is rare 🍵 in Japan Online shop "Morotsuka Store", "Donkotei storefront", etc. You can purchase it at "Morokko House". * Please 🙇 ♀️ order as soon as possible because the quantity is limited.

🌺 【Best time to visit the flowers of the Brushwood tree】 🌺 The "Brushwood", which is characterized by its unique flower appearance like a red brush, has begun ✨ to bloom vividly this year The way it sways in the wind is also beautiful, and you can't help but stop and look at it. If you're in the area, be sure to take a look ☺️ 📍 Filming location ・Izumi Station East Exit Ryokuchi Park ・646-5 Kamisababuchi, Izumi City, Kagoshima Prefecture

The 38th Meisui Hakusankawa Firefly Festival The "Meisui Hakusankawa Firefly Festival" will be held at Inazumi Underwater Cave Square in Mie Town, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture. Various events will take place on the day of the festival. Local fresh vegetables and sweets such as sake manju and brown sugar manju will also be on sale! This is a cozy, community-led festival organized mainly by local residents. Date and Time: Saturday, June 7, 2025 The event will go ahead in light rain. Rain decision will be made at 8:00 on the day. Location: Inazumi Underwater Cave Square Other: Sales of local fresh vegetables, sake manju, brown sugar manju, and more A commemorative gift will be presented to the first 200 visitors. Schedule 16:00 Karaoke contest 17:00 Toyoyu Taiko drumming 17:30 Opening ceremony 17:50 Okuhata kagura (sacred dance) 19:20 Folding fan dance 19:50 Mochi throwing 20:00 Firefly viewing Organizer: The Association to Protect Hakusankawa Access to central Bungo-Ono 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 tourism and recommended spots in Kyushu, Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250514event-mie/...

🌿New Tea Season🌿 The tea fields in Gokasecho are turning a vivid green😌🍵 The first and second photos show the house in Kuwanochi, in front of which the weeping cherry trees that we introduced in spring looked so beautiful📸✨ Against the fresh green of the remaining cherry leaves, the two-tone tea fields made an incredibly beautiful scene🥺👏 Fresh tea is arriving one after another at the Gokase Specialty Center, and the scent of new tea fills the shop🥰 Enjoy the fragrant, new tea leaves that make you feel as if you are standing right in the tea fields🍵✨

This is my first Yamaga Lantern Festival. I didn't do any homework, and I went with a crazy piece of equipment with a tripod pear 85mm single focal length. I vowed to bring a telephoto lens with me this year.

In 2024, I went to see the Yamaga Lantern Dance for the first time. The dancers dancing in matching costumes with lanterns made of Washi paper on their heads were very nice.

Shiraiwa Mountain Opening 🌸 Today (May 11), the Shiraiwa Mountain Opening was held at the Gokasecho Highland Ski Area Parking Center😊 A Shinto ceremony took place on the mountain, with organizers and other attendees praying for safety while enjoying the crisp mountain air👏 After the ceremony, those who wished began climbing toward the rhododendron colony💪 Azaleas, Okamenoki, yama-shakuyaku (mountain peony), and rhododendrons appeared to be in full bloom💡 ⚠ Notice ⚠ From May 12, Reiwa 7, the town road Hon-yashiki/Hagi Line and the Hagi Forest Road, which provide access to the Goboubatake trailhead (Shiraiwa Mountain, Mukaisakayama, and Kiridachigoe), will be closed to all traffic until further notice due to road disaster recovery work. To reach Shiraiwa Mountain, Mukaisakayama, and Kiridachigoe, please use the Ogawadake: Tenyabo trailhead (road subsidence, many falling rocks, rough road).

【🌸 Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 — Featured Submissions, Part 12 — 🌸】 The submission period finally ends today, Sunday, May 11. We’re showcasing entries to “#Gokase Flower Viewing 2025,” currently running on the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account.💪❤️‍🔥 @hanpenpen2022 @goto0619 (in no particular order) This time’s photos show the Akebono azaleas on Mt. Futagami and the white flowers in Kuraoka…what kind of flowers are those, I wonder?🤔 Everyone clearly knows well when and where different flowers bloom, and many have personal memories and attachments to these blooms. Those feelings seem to shine through in the photos — they’re truly lovely.✨ -------------------------------------------------------------------- “#Gokase Flower Viewing 2025” also ends today, Sunday, May 11!👏 If you meant to enter but haven’t yet, don’t miss the chance — submit before you forget!💡❗ ≪#How to Enter #Gokase Flower Viewing 2025≫ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account, then post a photo of flowers taken within Gokasecho on Instagram with the two hashtags #Gokase Flower Viewing 2025 and #date of photography (example: #March 20).🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... 【Period】From Thursday, March 20, 2025 to Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️Other terms and conditions appear on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Please be sure to read them before entering. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️Please take great care to avoid accidents while photographing.

Tailor Boarding Experience at Arao Tidal Flats! Why don't you enjoy the beautiful scenery, sea breeze, and Aroma of the sea and enjoy the Arao tidal flats? Held in the experience of riding the "tailor" used in the Ariake Sea and running on the Arao tidal flats! A tailor is a tiller with a loading platform attached to it, and is a vehicle used for seaweed farming and clam harvesting. You can also enjoy observing creatures such as crabs and hermit crabs! Pre-registration is required for this experience! The application start date is Thursday, May 8, 2025! Don't forget your boots!! Meeting place: Arao Tidal Flats Water and Wetland Center Time required: About 50 minutes from advance explanation to Car (Boarding time is about 10 minutes one way) Fee: Adult (high school students and older) 1000 yen, junior high and elementary school students 600 yen, preschoolers free * Elementary school students and younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian How to apply: Phone ☏to the Arao Tidal Flats Water and Wetland Center 0968-57-7444 Application start date: Thursday, May 8, 2025 * Representative can apply for up to 6 people at a time, and the schedule cannot be changed after application. Please apply again. ・Please bring your own boots. Boarding a tailor without boots. ・ It will be held in light rain, but it will be canceled in case of stormy weather. In the event of lightning, it will be canceled even during the Events.

My first Children's Day. Carp streamers for the first time. Carp streamers swimming comfortably in the blue sky and smiling 😊 Carp streamers are becoming less and less common, but the large school of about 200 carp streamers was dynamic and impressive 🎏 I felt once again that it is a wonderful tradition that should be passed on in the future. Wishing my daughter a healthy growth. Sukuku Grow Bigger 🌱

At the Arao Omoyai Citizens Flower Bed, rose Appreciation parties are held twice a year, in Spring and Autumn! 【Place】 Next to the Oshima Purification Center, Arao City (4-1-73 Oshima-cho, Arao-shi) 【Admission fee】 Free 【Opening Hours】 April to September 7:00~18:00 (Roses bloom from around late April to June.) October to March 7:00~17:00 (Roses bloom from around late October to November.) 【Precautions when entering the park】 There are no restrooms in the park. Please note that in case of rain, your feet may become muddy. 【Access】 Due to the Ariake Coastal Road extension work, the entrance and exit of the Omoyai Citizens Flower Garden will be changed for the time being after 1/9, 2024 (Reiwa 6). Please be careful when you come to the venue. Please follow the local information board.

🌳 Forest Kominka Series 🌳 【Yamashigi no Mori】 A 140-year-old kominka standing in the sky at a Elevation of 650 meters. There are two buildings, "Shishigi" built in the Taisho era and "Nakashigi" built in the Meiji era. It is a pleasant place where a gentle forest breeze 🍃 blows through. In the immediate vicinity, there are tea gardens, bamboo forests, fruit trees, and. There are also plenty of hands-on activities to experience the activities of mountain villages. Capacity: 2 buildings, 15 people each, 30 people in total Facilities: Goemon bath, furnace, sunken hearth * The Goemon bath and furnace are facilities only for "Shishigi". ◎ Experience 📍 Tea picking and kettle roasting tea making In the Tea plantations created in the valley, May is the Traditional Japanese straw raincoat season every year. By that time, you can experience picking Tea and making kama-roasted tea at the Yama School A tour will be planned. Roasted tea grown in Yamashigi no Mori is served at "Donkotei" and "Morokko House". It is also sold as "Yamashigi tea". 📍 Ume Plum Chigiri / Ume Plum Shigoto Two Plum trees are also indispensable for life since ancient times. In Morotsuka, Ume plum dishes are held in each household throughout the year. Teaching such Ume Plum work is also a popular project of the "Yama School" tour. Ume syrup and pickled Ume plums are all very popular. 📍 Yuzu picking and yuzu processing From autumn to winter, it is the turn of yuzu. Stay blue, turn yellow, Each of them does a good job. This is also a Standard of the "Yama School" tour set in Yamashigi no Mori. Making and more yuzu, taking a yuzu bath... I will enjoy yuzu to the fullest. * For Accommodation and experience, please contact the Morotsuka Village Tourism Association in advance. ■ Inquiries Morotsuka Village Tourism Association (Shiitake-no-kan 21) Phone number: 0982-65-0178

An article is introducing Gokasecho 👏✨ Please take a look 😆!

Josenji Temple with Azaleas in Bloom In spring, Josenji Temple bustled with many cherry-blossom viewers.🌸 Now the petals have fallen, and the weeping cherry trees with fresh green leaves are beautiful.✨ Azaleas bloom across the temple grounds, and the contrast between the new greenery and the vermilion flowers is delightful.😆

Koinobori Sports Day 🎏 & Azalea Festival 🌸 On May 5th, the event was held in District 8: Koinobori Sports Day and the Azalea Festival. Under a clear sky where koinobori raised by local volunteers drifted gracefully, the sports day took place in the morning.👟 The program offered activities that people of all ages could enjoy, and both adults and children competed with smiles.😆✨ In the afternoon, the venue moved to the gymnasium for a quiz contest and karaoke competition.🎤 The day ended with a much-anticipated raffle, and the whole event was lively from start to finish.😍

The mountain opening for MtSobosan was held on May 3, 2025. A famed peak representing Kyushu and selected as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains, many climbers enjoyed the trails that day. The akebono azalea was also in full, beautiful bloom. The climb was very strenuous, but the view from the summit is spectacular. From now on you can also enjoy fresh green foliage, so please enjoy your hike safely. MtSobosan has many hard routes, so prepare plenty of gear and food and prioritize safety when climbing. ■■During climbs ●Prepare plenty of gear and food and prioritize safety when climbing. ●MtSobosan and MtKatamukiyama are home to many valuable alpine plants. To protect nature, please do not pick or take them. ■■MtSobosan Straddling Oita Prefecture and Miyazaki Prefecture, it is a representative Kyushu peak selected as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains. Its elevation is 1,756 m. Unlike Aso and Kuju, it is an older volcano, which has formed deep valleys and steep ridges. You can enjoy how vegetation changes with elevation. ■■■Access to central Bungoono City■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from beppu station in Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing tourism and recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Introduction of Arao's Specialty products If you come to Arao, you want to get memorabilia and Souvenirs that can only be obtained in Arao. Specialty products that represent Arao and delicious foods that are talked about are introduced. Koshiroyaki Perfect for interiors and everyday vessels Koshiro ware, a pottery that has been handed down in the land of Arao for about 400 years, is made using high-quality ceramic clay from the foothills of Mount Kodai, which is located east of Arao City. His style boasts a high level of artistry, which has been designated as a traditional craft of Japan, and at the same time, it is also very popular as a vessel for everyday use, as it has a simplicity that complements dishes and flowers, There are very popular. In addition to platters and vases, there are also teacups and coffee cups. Find your favorite One of a kind. Koshiro ware kiln in Arao City ・Koshiro ware Fumoto kiln Kiln source: Yasuaki Inoue 1728-1 Furuhata, Arao-shi TEL: 0968-68-0456 ・ Kosaki ware Shirohira kiln Kiln source: Nobuaki Jojima 25-3 Oshima, Arao-shi TEL: 0968-62-0538 ・ Kosaki ware Sueyasu kiln Kiln source: Eisuke Sueyasu 1712-2 Fumoto, Arao City TEL: 0968-68-0058 ・ Koshiro ware Nakahira kiln Kiln source: Nishikawa Kosei 1192 Kaba, Arao City TEL: 0968-68-7326 ・Koshiro Mizuho Kiln Kiln Source: Rui Fukuda 914 Kamihirayama, Arao City TEL: 0968-66-2380 ・ Koshiro Motoya Chihiro Kiln Pottery: Tomohiro Maeno 2131-74 Kawanobori, Arao City TEL: 0968-68-6459 https://arao-kankou.jp/sightseeing/specialty/#:~:text=%E8%8D%92%E5%B0%BE%E7%89%A9%E7%94%A3%E9%A4%A8-,%E3%81%BE%E3%82%8B%E3%81%94%E3%81%A8%E3%81%82%E3%82%89%E3%81%8A%... E7%89%A9%E7%94%A3%E9%A4%A8,-%E7%89%A9%E7%94%A3%E9%A4%A8%E3%80%81%E5%B0%8F

[May 3] Kurara Festival 2025 A Golden Week fast start💪💨 On May 3, Constitution Memorial Day, Kurakura Kurara in the former Kuraoka Junior High School hosted the Kurara Festival 2025🥳 The weather could not have been better that day☀️✨ The venue bustled with many food and drink stalls, fortune-telling, relaxation services, crafts, and a flea market. About 300 visitors came, making it a very lively day🤗🌟 Because it was quite warm, shaved ice was hugely popular🍧💕 (Adults seemed to prefer alcohol🍺?) In the courtyard, Nani.loa HULA studio performed hula dances🌺 A special guest performance featured the vice principal of Kuraoka Elementary School singing passionately, which electrified the crowd😆🔥 The raffle offered many luxurious prizes, and smiles were everywhere☺️✨ Although a new festival that started last year, Kurara Festival has already become a beloved event both inside and outside the local community👏💡 Everyone is already looking forward to next year💕

Introducing Arao's sweets shop! Not only delicious cakes, but also sweets using Arao's Specialty products and sweets related to Arao! Please try to find it. ◆Patisserie Himaki We are proud of not only the taste but also the variety of cakes and baked sweets using Arao Pears. genre sweets address Arao-shi Higashiyagata 2-chōme-3-1 telephone number 0968-64-7112 business hours 10：00 ～ 20：00 Closed Thursday parking lot 6 units Instagram https://www.instagram.com/patisserie_himaki?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==...

【🌸 Gokase Hanami 2025 — Featured Photo Submissions Part 11 🌸】 It’s been a while, but we’re resuming introductions of the works submitted to “#Gokase Hanami 2025,” currently hosted on the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account 🤩💫 @sayasyoto They submitted many photos of the rhododendrons at Mikasho Shrine and a rare bamboo called kikkouchiku.✨ They also showcased the beauty of the leaves remaining on the cherry trees after blooming.🌸🌿 Since we can, please enjoy comparing these with the cherry blossom photos we introduced earlier.☺️💕 -------------------------------------------------------------------- Now then, the long-running “#Gokase Hanami 2025” is finally in its final stretch.💪💡 The event runs through Sunday, May 11, so if you took flower photos in Gokase during Golden Week, please do submit them.🤗✨ ≪#How to Enter Gokase Hanami 2025 ≫ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account and post flower photos taken within Gokasecho to Instagram with the two hashtags #Gokase Hanami 2025 and #date of photography (example: #March 20).🤳❤️‍🔥 Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/gokase_kanko/... Period: From Thursday, March 20, 2025, through Sunday, May 11, 2025 ⚠️ Other rules are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Be sure to read them before applying. https://www.town.gokase.miyazaki.jp/kanko/ivent/1962.html... ⚠️ Please take great care to avoid accidents while photographing.

Introducing Arao's sweets shop! Not only delicious cakes, but also sweets using Arao's Specialty products and sweets related to Arao! Please try to find it. ◆ European-style confectionery MAEHIRO Standard ~ creative sweets that can be used for a wide range of purposes. You'll find your favorite. address 2443-2 Arao, Arao City telephone number 0968-62-1144 business hours 9：30 ～ 20：00 Closed Water and Sunday (subject to change due to seasonal events, etc.) parking lot There is a space in front of the store. Instagram https://www.instagram.com/maehiro_cake?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==...

[Events Information] The 11th "Nippo Coast Rock Gaki Festival 2025" is being held in again this year! Unlike true oysters, which are in season in winter, rock oysters are in season in summer! Enjoy the large, rich creamy rock oysters! Period: Thursday, May 1, 2025 ~ Sunday, August 31, 2025 (Hyuga City, Kadogawa Town, Nobeoka City = May 1 ~, Saiki City = May 9 - ) Organizers: Nippō Coast Rock Gaki Festival Executive Committee (Hyuga City Tourism Association, Kadokawa Town Tourism Association, Nobeoka Tourism Association, Tourism Town planning Saeki) Inquiries: 0982-29-2155 (Nobeoka Tourism Association) 🎁 Giveaway Campaign 🎁 Meals rock oysters at participating stores during the period, and if you apply by stamping the gift application postcard with the Stamp of the participating store, you will win a gorgeous prize by lottery! 1st prize: Luxury Ise Shrimp set × 5 people 2nd prize: Local special Gourmet set worth 5,000 yen × 4 people 3rd prize: Local special Gourmet set worth 3,000 yen ×10 people The application period must be postmarked by Monday, September 1. * This Events does not have tourist facilities Stamps. * Implementation will be held after the Events ends, and only winners will be contacted for confirmation. ★⭐ Nobeoka City Participating Stores ⭐★ (1) Kitaura Rinkai Park Oyster House Address: 2501-60 Furue, Kitaura-cho, Nobeoka City Kitaura Rinkai Park Phone: 0982-45-3039 Time: 11:00~15:00 (L.O14:00) Regular holiday: Every Friday * Subject to change due to weather etc. (2) Roadside Station Kitaura Restaurant Kaisenkan Address: Nobeoka-shi, Kitaura-cho, Furue 3337-1 Phone: 0982-45-3811 Time:10:30~16:00(L.O15:00) * Rock oysters will be provided on 5/12 ~ Regular holiday: Year-end and New Year holidays (3) Fukufuku Address: Nobeoka City Shinmachi 6-5 Maru Building 1st Floor Phone: 0982-32-0629 Time:17:00~22:00 Regular holiday: Every Sunday (4) Kokugikan Address: Nobeoka City Spring Town 2-3-4 Phone: 0982-32-5729 Time: 11:00~15:00 (L.O14:00) 17：00～22：00（L.O21：30） *Friday and Saturday only 17：00～22：30（L.O22：00） Regular holiday: Every Monday * Open on holidays, holidays, and busy seasons

Golden Week finally starts tomorrow🎌!! Here is a roundup of events taking place in Reihoku, Amakusa District, Kumamoto Prefecture🙌 We present the Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour🌸 and the Minato Oasis Tomioka Fair⚓✨ Be sure to stretch your Golden Week plans to include a visit to Reihoku this year! ~~~~~ Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour🌸 During the event, you will find new works on display and for sale, special discount sales, and a variety of other attractions. Take this opportunity to visit and enjoy the beautiful Amakusa ceramics and the stunning scenery of the Amakusa West Coast. Two stamp rallies run at the same time! ※A digital stamp rally eligible for Kumamoto Health Points📱 ※A stamp rally where you can win products from your chosen kilns (Entry forms are available at each kiln📃) Period Five days from Friday, May 2, 2025 to Tuesday, May 6, 2025, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM Venues (Five kilns in Reihoku Town) Uchida Sarayama Pottery, Kobo Kaze, Mugen Kiln, Tenjiku Pottery Kiln, Unshū Kiln (Two kilns in Amakusa Town) Takahama Ware Juhogama, Amakusa Karatsu Juro Kiln Inquiries: Amakusa Pottery Stone Research and Development Promotion Council Secretariat (inside Reihoku Town Hall, Commerce and Tourism Division) TEL: 0969-35-3332 ~~~~~ Minato Oasis Tomioka Fair⚓ On Sunday, May 4, 2025 (national holiday), the 7th Spring Outing Minato Oasis Tomioka Fair will take place across Tomioka Port in Reihoku Town🎵 The event lineup includes Tomioka Port dolphin-watching cruises🐬, tours of Tomioka Castle🏯 and walks around Tomioka Town, plus a Kizuna Marche🎪 selling practical training products from Takushin High School Marine Campus and local agricultural, marine, and processed goods—there’s plenty to enjoy! Advance registration for dolphin watching and town walks has ended, but dolphin-watching still has available slots, so please come to the reception desk when you arrive! Inquiries: Reihoku Town Hall General Affairs Division TEL 0969-35-1111 FAX 0969-35-2454 ✉️ REIHOKU@town.reihoku.lg.jp

[Amakusa West Coast 🌸 Spring Kiln Tour Opening] ⁠ Known as the source of one of the world’s finest porcelain raw materials, Amakusa Toseki, the Amakusa West Coast hosts seven scattered kilns. The 30th Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour runs for five days from today, Friday, May 2, through Tuesday, May 6. The final kiln introduced is Takahama Ware Juhogama. The Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour finally begins today. This Golden Week, please come out to the Amakusa West Coast and enjoy the season 😊 *You can view previous kiln introductions from this account’s profile!* 🌸Takahama Ware Juhogama Located in the Takahama district of the Amakusa West Coast, Takahama Ware Juhogama boasts a long history dating back to the mid-Edo Period when Amakusa Toseki was first quarried and pottery production began. Its signature products are pure white, translucent porcelain and a distinctive painted motif called mirumon, inspired by seaweed. You have likely seen pieces with this pattern around Kumamoto Prefecture. Just before the Spring Kiln Tour, the workshop buzzes with preparation to put items out for sale. During the event, you can find bargain-priced items and chances to unearth real treasures. The painted pieces are whimsical and charming, and this season many designs feature sake motifs, which makes them especially fun. Mariko Ueda, the managing director, recommends a large-capacity café au lait bowl. It’s perfect for long morning drinks or for enjoying cereal—an ideal morning vessel. On the premises stands the former Ueda family residence, once the local headman’s home. A stroll through the garden brings dazzling spring greenery into view. If you pause feeling watched, you might find a large tanuki statue sitting among the bushes. That tanuki is still awaiting a name, so why not become its namesake when you visit? 📍Takahama Ware Juhogama (Instagram 👉 @takahamaware_kilnjyuho) 598 Takahama Minami, Amakusa City, Kumamoto Prefecture 863-2804 TEL: 0969-42-1115 ____________________ 🖌️During the Spring Kiln Tour, Takahama Ware Juhogama offers painting experiences on an ongoing basis. 🎪From Friday, May 2 to Monday, May 5 (approximately 10:00–15:00), a market, guided history and architecture tours of the Ueda family and Shiraso, mochi pounding, and various other events will take place! Details: check Takahama Ware Juhogama’s Instagram (@takahamaware_kilnjyuho). 🚗When you visit the Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour, please be sure to stop by. ♩ ____________________ [Amakusa West Coast 🌸 Spring Kiln Tour] During the event, you’ll find new works on display and sale, special discounts, and a variety of activities. Take this opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Amakusa ceramics and the splendid scenery of the Amakusa West Coast. Two stamp rallies run concurrently! *A digital stamp rally qualifies for Kumamoto health points📱* *A paper-entry stamp rally at participating kilns gives you a chance to win products from your chosen kilns (entry forms are available at each kiln)📃* [Period] Five days from Friday, May 2, 2025 through Tuesday, May 6, 2025 8:30 AM–5:00 PM [Venues] (Five kilns in Reihoku) Uchida Sarayama Pottery, Kobo Kaze, Mugen Kiln, Tenjiku Pottery Kiln, Unshū Kiln (Two kilns in Amakusa Town) Takahama Ware Juhogama, Amakusa Karatsu Juro Kiln [Inquiries] Amakusa Pottery Stone Research and Development Promotion Council Secretariat (inside Reihoku Town Hall, Commerce and Tourism Division) TEL: 0969-35-3332

Bungo Ono City 20th Anniversary Commemoration Ceremony Bungo Ono City celebrated the 20th anniversary of its city status on March 31, 2025. To mark the occasion, a commemorative ceremony and cultural performance will take place at Eitopia Oono. Admission is free, so please come and join us. ❚ Commemoration Ceremony [Date and Time] Sunday, May 25, 2025 [Venue] Eitopia Oono, Grand Hall [Admission] Free [Schedule] 12:00 Doors open 12:40 Opening: Wadaiko performance by Toyukai 13:00 20th Anniversary Commemoration Ceremony 14:00 Commemorative Cultural Performance [Booth Exhibits] In the entrance hall, booths will feature Bungo Ono City and its friendship exchange city, Taito Ward. ▶ Taito Ward Exhibit Booth Specialties from Taito Ward, Bungo Ono City’s friendship exchange city, will be exhibited and sold (planned). ▶ Bungo Ono City Exhibit Booth Displays and sales will showcase exhibits and products related to the founding of Bungo Ono City (planned). ❚ Commemorative Cultural Performance "Cheerful Folks from Asakusa Are Coming!" Asakusa Paradise — Bungo Ono Version: Silent-Narration, Opera, and More "Asakusa Paradise" is a comedy blending silent-narration (katsuben), opera, wadaiko and other elements, produced by katsuben performers Yata Aso and Kohata Aso from Mie Town. The show has been performed mainly in Asakusa, Taito Ward, and gained popularity. Now the Asakusa Paradise troupe may be coming to celebrate Bungo Ono City’s twentieth birthday!? To celebrate the 20th anniversary, a cultural exchange between Asakusa and Bungo Ono will unfold. For this Bungo Ono version, a new piece themed on dried shiitake mushrooms will be performed, and the Mie General High School Kagura Club along with a chorus formed from local residents will also appear. Though described as opera, the piece is a lighthearted comedy without formality. [Date and Time] May 25, 2025 Start 14:00 End 15:30 (planned) [Venue] Eitopia Oono, Grand Hall [Admission] Free [Story] The Asakusa Paradise troupe arrives to celebrate Bungo Ono City’s twentieth birthday. What awaits them is the world of kagura. But despite the celebration, has Amaterasu shut herself in the rock cave? With silent narration, opera, wadaiko, kagura and dance… Can everyone working together with local citizens open that rock cave!? [Inquiries] ▶ About the Commemoration Ceremony: Bungo Ono City, General Affairs Division, Mayor’s Office Phone: 0974-22-1001 ▶ About the Commemorative Cultural Performance: Community Development Promotion Division, Cultural and Arts Promotion Section Phone: 0974-221001 ■■■ 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, Oita Prefecture, Bungo Ono City (Bungo Ono City) ■■■■■■■■■■■■ https://sato-no-tabi.jp/news/20250501event-mie/...

Arao's Gourmet food is varied! Family and friends, everyone is very satisfied! From sushi restaurants, ramen, okonomiyaki, yakiniku, and other specialty restaurants, to very fashionable cafes and restaurants, Arao's Gourmet food has a wide variety of confectionery shops and nighttime drinks. After playing a lot, please enjoy it at your favorite store. ~Maki Cafe~ Take-out shops along Greenland Street with freshly baked crepes and sweets café menus genre Take-out specialty café address 827-2 Miyauchi, Arao City telephone number 070-5400-7654 business hours 12：00 ～ 17：00 Closed Tuesday (the next day if it is a holiday) + Not opens once a month parking lot 5 cars Instagram https://www.instagram.com/makicafe_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==...

Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour 🌸 The Amakusa West Coast is famed as one of the world’s premier sources of porcelain stone, Amakusa touseki. Over five days, from Friday, May 2 to Tuesday, May 6, the 30th Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour invites you to visit seven scattered kilns along this coast. Amakusa Karatsu Jurou Kiln Located in the Shimoda-minami area of the Amakusa West Coast, Jurou Kiln sits right by the sea where you can feel the ocean breeze. The kiln owner, Goh Kameyama, shapes and fires his pieces with a powerfully refined technique that gives the work a quiet tension. Meanwhile, Sanae Kameyama’s painted brushwork is delicate and graceful yet carries a distinctively modern sensibility that lends the vessels a soft expression. From sturdy, no-nonsense wares to charming, smile-inducing painted scenes, the couple’s contrasting sensibilities resonate to produce pieces that gently speak to both viewers and users. Location: Amakusa Karatsu Jurou Kiln 426 Shimoda-minami, Amakusa-machi, Amakusa City, Kumamoto 863-2802 TEL: 0969-42-3143 _______________________________ On Sunday, May 4 at Takahama-yaki Juhou Kiln! Sanae will perform an impromptu whale painting and in-situ blue-and-white underglaze dyeing, “whale painting 🐳 impromptu dyeing.” Please feel free to drop by and watch 👀 For details, search Instagram: Takahama-yaki Juhou Kiln @takahamaware_kilnjyuho ⚠️ Please note this event will not take place at Amakusa Karatsu Jurou Kiln. _______________________________ This is the final introduction to the participating kilns tomorrow 😿 Please be sure to take a look 💁‍♀️💁‍♂️💁 Amakusa West Coast Spring Kiln Tour 🌸 During the event, each kiln will offer new works for display and sale, plus special discount offers and other activities. Take this chance to visit, enjoy the beautiful Amakusa porcelain from each kiln, and savor the stunning scenery of the Amakusa West Coast. Two stamp rallies run at the same time! ※ A digital stamp rally qualifying for Kumamoto health points📱 ※ A stamp rally to win products from your chosen kiln (entry forms available at each kiln📃) Period Five days from Friday, May 2, 2025 to Tuesday, May 6, 2025 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Venues (Five kilns in Reihoku Town) Uchida Sarayama-yaki, Kobo Kaze, Mugen Kiln, Tenjiku Kiln, Unshu Kiln (Two kilns in Amakusa Town) Takahama-yaki Juhou Kiln, Amakusa Karatsu Jurou Kiln Inquiries: Amakusa Porcelain Stone Research and Development Promotion Council Secretariat (inside Reihoku Town Hall, Commerce and Tourism Division) TEL: 0969-35-3332