Mokoto Pass Mokoto Pass runs along the north side of Lake Kussharo. It is a prefectural road connecting Kawayu Onsen to Higashi-Mokoto Village. Not well known as a tourist route, the road nevertheless offers unique, beautiful views from two observation points. Do visit — you are likely to encounter wonderful scenery. https://masyuko.or.jp/enjoy/mokototoge/...

If you want to "get PADI Sense in Japan", Hokule'a Shonan! Hello! This is Hokule'a Shonan. "I want to get a diving Sense while traveling in Japan" "I want to take a course in English" We offer courses that are perfect for guests from overseas in the Kanagawa and Shonan areas. This time, guests from the United States completed the PADI Open Water Diver Course in 3 days and became divers! 🎉 The first day started with practicing basic skills, and on the last day, I was able to enjoy the sea with confidence. The course can also be handled in English, so it is safe for foreigners living in Japan and those who are traveling. In fact, the guests this time were able to communicate smoothly in English and proceed with the course safely and happily. The training location is IOP (Izu Marine Park) in Higashi-Izu, a popular diving spot that can be reached on a day trip from Tokyo. Diving in the colorful schools of fish and beautiful sandy waters is truly a unique experience in Japan. Hokule'a Shonan is certified as a PADI 5 Star Dive Center and features small class sizes and attentive instruction. Even after obtaining Sense, we also provide support for the next step, such as Advanced Open Water Diver and Fun Diving. ✅ Especially for those who would like to recommend Travelers and business travelers coming to Japan from overseas Those who want to take diving lessons in English Those who are interested in Japan's Nature and the sea For those who are experiencing diving for the first time Would you like to acquire a PADI Sense that can be used for a lifetime in Japan? It is easy to access from Tokyo and is perfect for memories of your trip. Let's experience the "blue world" with us! #PADIOpenWater #DivingJapan #IOPIzu #ScubaNearTokyo #PADI5Star #JapanTravelTips #ExploreTheBlue #HokuleaShonan #SoloTravelJapan #OceanAdventure

A Tranquil Shrine Soothing You with the Cool Chime of Wind Bells At Sagi Shrine each summer we hold the “Wind Bell Festival.” 🎐 Wind Bell Festival 🎐 Event Period Friday, June 20, 2025 – Sunday, August 31, 2025 Around 500 wind bells line the grounds during the festival, offering vivid colors, refreshing tones, and the calming green of the shrine grounds. It’s also a hidden popular spot in Miyoshi City for Instagram-worthy photos. The grounds regularly host markets such as the “Saginoko-san Goenichi” market. (Check @saginokosan.goenichi on Instagram for event details!) Summer is just getting started. Why not visit Sagi Shrine to enjoy some cool relief? ⛩️ Sagi Shrine 📍1877 Tokaichi-machi, Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture 📞 0824-62-3343 📱 080-5363-3967

＼ ✨💠After the Hydrangea Festival💠✨ ／ Starting today, July 2nd, hydrangeas are floating in the monument tank at Izukyū Shimoda Station rotary.💠🫧 The hydrangeas were carefully pruned by the staff in charge of Shimoda Park, and they will remain on display until Wednesday, July 16th. Even hydrangeas that have passed their peak in the park look fresh and beautiful when floated on the water! There are especially many blue hydrangeas, which stand out against the summer sky and give a very refreshing impression.🌿🩵 If you are nearby, please stop by and take a look! *Only authorized personnel have pruned or collected plants within Shimoda Park. Please refrain from cutting or taking plants from the park.*

Midsummer in Teshikaga Spots you should definitely visit 🐻☕️ 📍Sakhalin Spruce Nature Trail ___________________________ A walking trail behind Kawayu Visitor Center (ig: @kawayu_vc). It’s an authentic forest you can drop into easily. Staff at the facility can provide a 20–30 minute guided walk on request.✨ This season is especially recommended as gozentachibana moves from white flowers to red berries. On the second-floor cafe (ig: @cafesoftwood) you can enjoy meals and tea, so you can make the most of your visit to Kawayu Visitor Center.🍙🌿 https://masyuko.or.jp/enjoy/eco_museum/...

The Northern Alps taken from inside a car. The cars don't stop, and I can't get this view out of my head when I pass the tracks.

Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture Ikuta Shrine

One quiet springtime afternoon, a cyclist pedals along the enchanting canopy of soft pink petals in full bloom in Sewaritei Yodogawa Riverside Park. Witnessing such scene before me felt like time seems to have paused as the spirit of serenity whispers through every falling blossom. This moment captures more than just motion; it reflects the harmony between nature and human presence, the quiet joy of spring and the enduring beauty of Japanese tradition. As the wheels turn gently over the petal-strewn path, the scene becomes a living haiku—fleeting, serene, and deeply moving. "Beneath cherry skies, Wheels hum through petals like wind, Spring breathes, then drifts on." - a haiku by the Lemonee

A view from the summit of Mt. Chogatake in the Northern Alps 😆 This lookout offers spectacular panoramas of the Hotaka range, including Mt. Yari This morning the clouds were high and the ridgelines should have been visible, but when I arrived the clouds had rolled in… what a shame 😢 The summit was being battered by strong winds, but it still felt amazing I could also see the Azumino valley below

An observation deck sits atop Mt. Nagamine. Climb this deck and enjoy 360-degree views, including the Northern Alps 😄. Please note it will be closed for repainting from June 23 to July 18, so it won’t be available during that time… 😢 If you hike during the day, take care to avoid heatstroke.

After the rain in the evening. When I looked at the sky, I saw two beautiful rainbows! Transportation to the roof of the supermarket and captured it on camera. I've never seen such a clear and beautiful rainbow before!

air hole The wind hole is a mysterious rock hole where cool winds blow throughout the four seasons. In summer, fog is generated due to the temperature difference with the outside air, and a mysterious scene appears in front of you. Around the end of June, the "Himalayan blue poppy" blooms beautifully, which is Cultivation to Use the cold air of the wind hole in the pit dug in front of the wind hole. Located inside Shanglin Forest Park, there are hydrangeas and autumn leaves planted nearby, and you can enjoy them every season. It is also famous as a starting point for climbing to Saragamine and Dragon God. Location: 791-0223 896-24 Kamibayashi, Toon City Access: 15km by Car from Matsuyama Expressway Kawauchi IC on Prefectural Roads 23 and 209 towards Kamibayashi Forest Park Car parking lot: Yes Toilet: Yes

From June 1st, Miyoshi’s summer tradition begins🌿 The Miyoshi ukai (cormorant fishing), with a history of more than 450 years, has started✨ What is ukai? Ukai is a traditional Japanese fishing method that uses cormorants to catch sweetfish (ayu). Cormorants are exceptionally skilled hunters. They dive into the water and swallow the fish whole, holding them in their throats☝️ In ukai, handlers wrap a cord around the bird’s neck so it won’t completely swallow a large ayu. The cormorant handler, called an usho, makes the bird regurgitate the fish and collects the catch. This fishing method is called ukai. What makes Miyoshi’s ukai unique? Ukai was once practiced across Japan, but today it survives as a tourist attraction in only 11 locations nationwide. One of these precious sites is Miyoshi, notable above all for the exceptional skill of its cormorant handlers✨ The cord attached to each cormorant is called a tanawa. In Miyoshi, the tanawa stretches an astonishing seven meters— the longest in Japan❗ With that extra length, the cormorants range far and wide, moving freely in every direction❗ You can witness the powerful sight of the birds hunting up close. And watching the handlers skillfully control the long tanawa is a brave, captivating sight✨ The pleasure boats we ride run alongside the cormorant fishing boats carrying the usho. That lets you see this dramatic spectacle right up close😊 This is one of the great attractions of Miyoshi’s ukai! What is the relationship between the usho and the cormorants? Some people may feel sorry that the birds are made to regurgitate the fish. The usho and the cormorants are irreplaceable partners who live and work together. The birds are treated as members of the usho’s family and cared for with great affection🌿 Cormorants are said to bond closely with people. Handlers communicate with them every day, shower them with affection🥰, and train them carefully. It is said that ukai cannot be done without a trusting relationship between the bird and the usho, so their feelings must be mutually understood for the method to work. Because the cormorants and usho fish together as a family, a strong bond forms between them. The beautiful scenes they create together in ukai are truly a sight to behold. CHECK! For more details about Miyoshi’s ukai, follow the URL link on this account♪

We have updated the blooming status of hydrangeas at Shimoda Park 💠✨ Although the peak season continues, the flowers are gradually changing color. We recommend visiting soon ☝🏽🌈

Hill town Biei Nature created over a long history, this landscape is colored by many hills I go there every year because I want to see this scenery

🇯🇵 Excellent Access from Tokyo! Held in PADI diving course in Nishi-Izu [English support, small group size] Implementation at Hokule'a Shonan recently held a PADI Open Water Diver Course. The locations are "Hirasawa" and "Ida" in Nishi-Izu, which can be reached on a day trip from Hiratsuka, Kanagawa Prefecture. Both are highly transparent and are perfect Spots for your first marine training. All of the guests who participated this time were beginners in diving. Scenes were nervous at first, but after a careful lecture on land, Nature was smiling by the time they entered the sea. The instructor supported me one by one and proceeded with the course calmly. 🤿 Diving is "fun and learning" In the diving course, you will practice basic skills such as breathing in water, clearing a mask, and neutral buoyancy. Even if you are a first-timer, you can rest assured that the small group size and slow pace will make you feel at ease. While experiencing buddy checks and equipment settings, you will acquire Nature and "diver thinking". Above all, the best part is that you can practice in the beautiful sea. The sea in Ida is called "Ida blue", and surrounded by clear Water and colorful fish, you will feel as if you are in another world. 🌏 Classes in English are also available. Suitable for travelers and business travelers! Hokule'a Shonan offers PADI Sense courses in English. It is also possible for those who want to obtain a Sense while traveling or business travelers who are staying for a short period of time. With a flexible schedule, you can tailor the course to your stay plan. 🚉 30 seconds walk from JR Hiratsuka Station (easy Access from Tokyo and Yokohama) 📆 Schedule request OK 👥 Peace of mind in private or small groups 🗣 English-speaking instructors 📩 The first step to the world's oceans, right here in Japan Activities can be started even if you are not a good swimmer. Water is a magical experience of breathing in the water, encounters with sea creatures, and quiet time to face yourself. Everything will be a special memory that will stay with you. If you get a PADI C card (Sense), you will be able to dive in the world's oceans. I sincerely recommend it to those who want to start a new hobby or refresh themselves in Nature. Interested parties, please feel free to contact us by DM or email. Your diving life starts 🌊 here 📸 Scenes of diving are also introduced on Instagram. @hokulea_divejapan Be sure to check out some of Japan's hidden diving spots! #ScubaJapan #PADIcertification #DivingNearTokyo #HokuleaShonan #JapanTravelTips #OpenWaterCourse #SoloTravelJapan #DiveWithUs #ExploreTheBlue #HiddenDiveSpot #PADI5Star #DivingJourney #PADIJapan

〈A Guide to Campsites in Teshikaga〉 Teshikaga, with its wide, generous land, offers a variety of campsites. Campers often pick spots that match their specific preferences and enjoy their stay. Here is a roundup of campsites in Teshikaga. https://masyuko.or.jp/enjoy/?cats=663%2C668...

A cozy free relaxation spot in Azumino 😃 Hachimen Daio Ashiyu (Footbath)♨️ This footbath is inspired by Azumino’s folk tale, the Hachimen Daio legend The water is a mildly alkaline simple hot spring known for its skin-beautifying effects Feel free to enjoy the hot springs of Hotaka Onsen Village 😊

Azumino is enjoying fine weather this morning ☀️ Mt. Tsubakuro and Mt. Ariake were clearly visible too It looks like Koshin will be hot again today… Please watch out for heatstroke 🥵

Sogouchi Shrine It is said that it was founded in the 22nd year of Emperor Kammu's reign (803) as the chief guardian of Kawanouchi. There are in front of the Torii (shrine gate), a sacred tree designated by the prefecture as a natural monument that is said to be more than 1,000 years old. (Height 11m, main street 6m.) ) In addition, there is a shrine office and a phrase monument that the haiku poet Matsune Toyojo stayed for a year and a half and named "Ichitata-an" and the four seasonal cherry blossoms that continue to bloom from autumn to Spring, which he named "Hundred Day Cherry Blossoms". There are also stunning stone walls and a large garden in the woods full of healing properties. Famous for its multiple species of mountain hydrangea that bloom in May and June, it is also called "Hydrangea no Mori". Location: 791-0321 4876 Kawanouchiko, Toon City Access: From Kawauchi Interchange, take National Route 11 towards Saijo and enter National Route 494.

Charcoal market with seafood The vivid colors of seafood and the fragrant smoke rising from the charcoal fire weave together tradition and vibrancy. A piece that conveys the warmth of the ancient city along with the bustle of the market.

🌴 Good Access from Tokyo! Day trip diving tour🛳️ on Hatsushima Hello, I'm Hokule'a Shonan! 😊 This time, we Held in a Day trip tour at Hatsushima, a popular diving spot in the suburbs of Tokyo. Hatsushima is a small island with good Access, located about 30 minutes by ferry from Atami Port in Kanagawa Prefecture. From Our store (Hiratsuka, Kanagawa Prefecture), it takes 🚗🛳️ about 1 hour and 30 minutes by Car and ferry Transportation time is short, so even short travel schedules make it easy to visit. 🌊 Leisurely diving experience in crystal clear waters On this day, the weather was good and the sea was clear, so I was able ☀️ to swim comfortably in the bright water In the waters of Hatsushima, you can enjoy a variety of fish from shallow to deep and rocky terrain. Even for those who are new to diving, the conditions were calm so that they could experience it with peace of mind. 🐟 Spot where you can meet popular fish During the tour, we also met the Famous "Kobudai" on Hatsushima. With its large body and distinctive face, this fish can come very close to divers Soba. In addition, the rocky terrain and the way the light enters are beautiful, making it a 📸 recommended point for taking photos in the water Shooting in bright water is a chance for even first-timers to take beautiful shots. 🤿 A safe environment and support system for beginners Transportation is very smooth as the dive site on Hatsushima Island can be accessed immediately after getting off the ferry. There are many days with few waves, and entry and exit are stable. It is also recommended for those who have just taken the Sense and have not dived for a while. At Hokule'a Shonan, even beginners in diving can enjoy it with peace of mind. We offer small-group tours and attentive support. 🏝️ "Sea of islands" that can be enjoyed even in a short time Even in the midst of a busy schedule, you can refresh your mood by exercising in nature and looking at the beautiful sea. "I want to have a little adventure on a day trip" "I want to experience the sea near Tokyo" This is the perfect tour for you. 📍 Hokule'a Shonan (Hiratsuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture) 🚉 30 seconds walk from JR Hiratsuka Station South Exit 🅿️ Car parking available, English support OK, PADI 5 star registered store 💬 For inquiries and tour reservations, please feel free to visit the official website or Instagram! #HatsushimaIsland #IslandTripFromTokyo #ScubaDivingJapan #TokyoDayTrip #JapanTravelTips #BestOfJapan #UnderwaterAdventure #KanagawaDiving #HiddenGemsJapan #HokuleaShonan #PADI5Star #DiveJapan #EcoTravelJapan #OceanRetreat

White Pig Falls A 96-meter-high waterfall in the Prefectural Nature Park of the Saragamine Mountain Range. It hangs over the upper reaches of the Shigenobu River, in the valley of the Omote River, and its falling appearance makes you feel the greatness of Nature. White Boar Falls shows various faces in Four Seasons. Fresh greenery sprouts in Spring, in early summer it is a refreshing summer resort, and in autumn the trees surrounding the waterfall are dyed in brocade. Soseki and Shiki were also Fascination, and it There are a record of their visits. Especially the winter scenery is fantastic. When the bitter cold lasts for several days, the entire waterfall looks like an ice sculpture. Location: 791-0321 Toon City Kawanouchi Shirabono Falls Farming Village Park Access: 15 minutes by Car from Kawauchi IC (Matsuyama Expressway) 　　　　　60 minutes by Iyotetsu bus from Matsuyamashi Station Car parking lot: Yes (Free parking spaces: Shiraino Falls Farming village Park There is also a private paid Car parking lot (500m in front of the promenade) Toilet: Yes

Of the four passes offering views of Lake Kussharo, the most famous is Bihoro Pass. Called a "spectacular view of the nation," it offers a breathtaking, grand panorama of beautiful Lake Kussharo. The morning sea of clouds and the New Year’s sunrise are both dramatic, making this one of Japan’s premier panoramic viewpoints. https://masyuko.or.jp/enjoy/bihorotoge/...

The crystal-clear water flowing from the wasabi fields of Azumino Fed abundantly by groundwater from the Northern Alps, this water is pure and transparent. When you touch it, it feels cool and refreshing — very pleasant 😁

📍Katori Shrine and Mt. Ariake in Azumino Katori Shrine stands quietly amid the rice fields of Azumino, with the graceful ridgeline of the Northern Alps stretching behind it. The mountain, shaped like Mt. Fuji, is Mt. Ariake, also called Shinano Fuji. Today, temperatures in Azumino rose nearly to a scorching summer level as the area soaked up strong sunlight. 📍Katori Shrine and Mt. Ariake in Azumino Katori Shrine sits in the heart of the countryside, with the beautiful ridgeline of the Northern Alps unfolding behind it. The mountain with a Fuji-like silhouette is Mt. Ariake, known as "Shinano Fuji." Today in Azumino the temperature climbed close to a heatwave level, and the landscape was bathed in summer sunlight.

Shinshu salmon raised using groundwater from the Northern Alps There are trout farms scattered throughout Azumino We were blessed with fine weather today, and it looks set to become a hot day…

[Notice 📢 of start of skin diving course] Hello! From this summer, Hokule'a Shonan will start a new "skin diving course" 🫧 Many of you may be wondering, "What is skin diving?" Skin diving is a diving style in which you dive into the Water with "only your own breath" without using a tank like Scuba Diving. It is similar to so-called "Diving with bare hands", but it is very important not only to dive, but also to have the skills and knowledge to enjoy it safely. For example, by properly learning how to breathe properly, how to remove ears, posture in water, and how to dive, you will be 🌿 able to enjoy it much more comfortably and with peace of mind The appeal of skin diving is "lightness" and "freedom". Because there are few equipment, you can directly experience a sense of unity with your body and the sensation of water, and you will feel as if you are one with the sea. It's perfect for those who say, "I like the sea, but scuba seems a bit of a hurdle ..." Of course, it is also recommended 🐬 for experienced scuba players as a new way to enjoy it This course is designed so that even beginners can participate with confidence. We will support you carefully, so please feel free to contact us 😊 if you are not confident in swimming or are worried about removing your ears 🌊 \Skin Course and Skin Tour Held In Date/ 📍Saturday, June 28 📍July 12 (Sat) - 13 (Sun) Lake Suganuma Skin Tour 📍Saturday, July 19 Held in on request in addition to the above dates! If you would like to be able to participate on this day, please contact us 🙌 Let's 💙 experience the "breathtakingly beautiful" world of the sea together We look forward to your participation! #SkinDiving #FreedivingJapan #TrySkinDiving
#SkinDivingTour #UnderwaterAdventure #ExploreTheBlue
#DiveIntoNature #LakeDiving #JapanDivingExperience
#NewDiveExperience #HokuleaShonan #PADI

Registered Tangible Cultural Property "Sakaebashi" 🌉 Completed in 1938 (Showa 13), it was designated a Registered Tangible Cultural Property on March 13 of this year. Every time you cross this historic bridge, you can sense the passage of the local community. 💭 Sakaebashi exists as a familiar part of the scenery that represents Sakuhomachi. Come and feel the town's history for yourself—be sure to visit at least once. 🫧🦋

At dusk, the scent of charcoal lured me to stop in my tracks. An act of travel, the blessings of the sea and the handiwork of people weave together an unforgettable taste.