Introduction of Tsuba from Wakeido Item Number: E381101 Title: Enso Shidare Sakura Zu Tsuba Signature: Mumei Hikozo Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Jyuyo Tousougu Size: Length 80mm Width 77mm Thickness 5mm Period: Last of Muromachi to First of Edo School: Higo Hirata Description During the Sengoku period in Higo Province, Hosokawa Sansai, the lord of the Hosokawa clan, was a cultured individual who excelled in arts such as tea and poetry, having a deep connection with Sen no Rikyū. Under his guidance, the Higo style and Higo tsuba emerged, shining brightly in the world of sword fittings and captivating many enthusiasts. Among Higo, the four families of Hirata, Lin, Nishigaki, and Shimizu formed four branches, all serving the lord and prospering until the end of the Edo period. The Hirata family of Higo is of the Shōami lineage, with the first Hikozo serving Hosokawa Sansai in Kyoto. Following the relocation of the family, he moved to Kumamoto, where he passed away in the twelfth year of Kaei. From his disciples, Shimizu Jingo and Nishigaki Kanshirō emerged, forming the four major schools of Higo metalwork along with Lin Matachi of the Owari lineage. Technically, they inherited much of the Shōami tradition, utilizing materials such as iron, but often favoring colored metals like Yamadō, brass, and copper, adding elegant decorative features such as inlay work and Amida rasps. This piece features a harmonious blend of rich iron and gold inlay depicting weeping cherry blossoms. Overall, it exudes a high level of elegance, combining an ancient charm with practicality, making it a prime example of Hikozo craftsmanship.

A Little Autumn Fairytale As I captured this moment, I was drawn into the warmth and magic of autumn. The golden sunlight, fallen leaves, colorful flowers, and adorable little dogs created a scene straight out of a fairytale. I wanted to preserve not just the beauty of this little picnic, but also the feeling of peace, warmth, and happiness it brought to my heart. For me, this photograph is a beautiful reminder that sometimes the simplest moments hold the most precious emotions. Location: Showa memorial park

Waiting for the aftermath of the typhoon, I head to Mt. Tateyama, which is beginning to show its autumn colors. Under the clear autumn sky, the cool air envelops my skin, and I can feel the refreshing touch of the autumn breeze on my cheeks. The mountainsides are adorned with red, orange, and golden trees. Looking up, the Tateyama Mountain Range appears draped in a tapestry of autumn hues. The entire mountain is enveloped in deepening autumn colors, a breathtaking beauty. Location: Murodo-daira, Nakaniikawa District, Toyama Prefecture.

I headed to Mishakaike in Nagano Prefecture to catch the autumn leaves during the evening sunset. However, I got caught in traffic and arrived just as the sun had completely set. Even so, the faint remaining light created a tranquil scene, reflecting the mountains in the still water, reminiscent of the works of Kaii Higashiyama, and it produced a magical sight.

[November 15th] Crystal Mikoshi at Shosenkyo Gorge – Dance of Autumn Leaves 🍁 A gigantic crystal mikoshi will parade through the birthplace of crystal, Shosenkyo Gorge! The special mikoshi, known as the "Crystal Mikoshi," will arrive at the autumn-colored Shosenkyo Gorge once again this year✨ Before the mikoshi departs, you can touch the giant crystal ball enshrined at its center and make a wish🙏 Additionally, anyone who receives a happi coat can join in, including tourists! Why not carry the impressive crystal mikoshi together in the valley surrounded by autumn leaves? 📅 Date Sunday, November 15, 2026 🕚 Time 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM *The event will be held rain or shine 📍 Venue Around Senga Falls in Shosenkyo and Crystal Highway 📞 Contact 090-8648-0243 Shosenkyo Charm Creation Council A special annual prayer for good fortune. Please entrust your wishes to the crystal mikoshi during the autumn season in Shosenkyo! 🍁

While walking through Nishizawa Keikoku, I encountered the delicate expressions of the maple leaves transitioning from yellow to red. The overlapping leaves, wrapped in soft light, conveyed the deepening of autumn like a painting.

The Karasawa Cirque, blanketed in vibrant autumn colors, captivated hikers as they gazed at the mountain huts adorned in fall foliage.

Golden trees shine brightly against the stark white granite. Adorned with the colors unique to autumn, the ridgeline glows vividly. (Location: Hououzan Obelisk)

I encountered a landscape that makes you want to just stop and gaze at it. The vibrant autumn leaves seemed to dye my very heart. (Location: Tsugaike Nature Park)

The autumn foliage paints the mountainside, with steep rocky peaks rising behind it. This was a moment when Karasawa Cirque shone the brightest.

Last month, I visited Nobeyama in Nagano. The starry sky at Shishiiwa and Yatsugatake Fureai Park was truly beautiful. The next morning, as soon as it opened, I bought a lot of fresh and inexpensive vegetables at the Minamimaki Village Agricultural and Livestock Products Direct Sales Store, and they were all very fresh and delicious. Lettuce, Chinese cabbage, bok choy, broccoli... The corn was especially sweet and juicy, and the cabbage was crispy and the best! I want to go buy some again.

Introduction of Futatokoro from Wakeido Item Number: F381104 Title: Awaho zu Futatokoro Signature: Issai Toumei (kao) Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Tokubetsuhozon Tousougu Dimensions: Kozuka Length 97.5mm Width 15mm Kougai Length 167mm Width 10mm Period: Last of Edo School: Goto Ichijyo School Description: Araki Toumei is a renowned craftsman of the Goto Ichijyo school. He was born in Kyoto in the 14th year of the Bunka era. At the age of thirteen, he became a disciple of Goto Toujō, receiving the character 'Tou' and adopting the name Toumei. Later, he studied under Goto Ichijō, receiving the title of Issai and signing as Issai Toumei, also known as Ginshōtei. Toumei's depiction of millet is his most adept design and has become synonymous with his name. The sharpness of the chiseling beautifully expresses the ripened millet, showcasing a unique worldview in which his carving technique stands unparalleled.

Introduction of Kozuka from Wakedo Item Number: K381102 Title: Taketora zu Kozuka Signature: Somin (Kao) Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Tokubetsu Hozon Tousougu Dimensions: Length 96.3mm Width 14.5mm Period: Middle of Edo School: Yokoya school Description Yokoya Somin was a renowned craftsman representing the Edo Period and is considered the founder of a group known as Machibori, which served the Goto family. He produced many branches, including Yanagawa, Ishiguro, and Omori schools, shaping Edo metalwork. Somin was born in the 10th year of the Kanbun era, known as Nagajiro, and later changed his name to Jibei. He initially signed as Souchi but adopted the name Somin around the 7th year of Genroku after his father's death. Somin studied the painting style of the famous Kanō school and incorporated it into his metal engraving techniques. In addition to the traditional high relief style, he established a new realm known as Katakiri-bori. This engraving technique from the Yokoya school received great admiration and had a significant impact on the future of metalwork. This piece is an exquisite example of Katakiri-bori, creating a sensation akin to viewing a hanging scroll. It features Somin's specialty, the Taketora (bamboo tiger) design, characterized by the tiger's charming expression and skillful execution, all depicted through Katakiri-bori. The strength and subtlety of the chiseling are remarkable, truly showcasing a master craftsman.

Hello everyone! 😊 This is Waraji, a local cuisine restaurant in Koshu! As we move past mid-October, the autumn colors are gradually beginning to spread in Shosenkyo Gorge. 🍁 During the day, the warm sunlight and cool breeze create a pleasant atmosphere, making it the perfect season for a stroll. ☀️ While the mountains still have plenty of greenery, you can now see trees that have started to turn red and yellow in various spots. In particular, the trees around the fountain have begun to turn red earlier than the surroundings. 🍁✨ Although we look forward to the deepening autumn leaves, the current scenery of green mixed with autumn colors is also lovely. 😊 And speaking of autumn, it’s definitely the season of appetite! 😋 What we recommend during this season is our pride, the tempura rice bowl! 🍤 The freshly fried, crispy tempura piled high in the bowl is as impressive as Mount Fuji! 🗻✨ Not only is it visually striking, but it also has an amazing satisfying taste! After enjoying the beautiful nature of Shosenkyo, please come to "Waraji" for a delicious meal. 🍚 Enjoy a moment that fills both your heart and stomach along with the autumn scenery. 🍂 We sincerely look forward to your visit! 😊

Last week, I stopped by Doryu Falls in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture while visiting Nobeyama. It takes about 15 minutes to walk along a relatively flat path from the parking lot to get there. I soaked in a lot of negative ions.

This photo of the autumn leaves, Mount Fuji, and Lake Shojin was taken around 7 AM on November 14, 2025, in Fujikawaguchikomachi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture. I arrived at Lake Shojin in the middle of the night and waited for sunrise to capture this moment. The vibrant red leaves and the sunlight made me feel excited, making me forget the morning chill.

Hello 😊 This is Crystal Sound 💎✨ As October begins, we are enjoying pleasant weather in Shosenkyo Gorge ☀️ Autumn is a season when Shosenkyo becomes particularly vibrant with colors 🍁 It is still a bit early for the peak of the autumn foliage, but the leaves on the trees are gradually starting to change, revealing hints of yellow and red among the greenery 🌿🍂 Against the backdrop of a clear blue sky, majestic rocky mountains, and the soothing sounds of the flowing stream ✨ Taking a leisurely stroll while admiring the scenery in the gentle autumn breeze and mild temperatures is a unique way to enjoy this season 😊 Surrounded by nature, why not spend a healing moment that you can't easily experience in your daily life? 🌳 Now, when we think of October's birthstone, it's "opal" 💎🌈 The meanings of the stone are ✨ Hope ✨ Good fortune ✨ Purity ✨ Patience The charm of opal lies in its beautiful colors that change depending on the angle from which you view it 🌈 Its brilliance, reminiscent of a rainbow captured within small gemstones, is captivating enough to make you stare in awe 😍 Please enjoy the fantastical colors of opal along with the gradually vibrant autumn foliage of Shosenkyo 🍁💎 At Crystal Sound, we offer a wide variety of captivating natural stones, including opal! While strolling through the autumn Shosenkyo, we invite you to stop by and find your favorite natural stone ☺️ All of our staff sincerely look forward to welcoming you 🍀 🌿 A final request to everyone 🌿 There are no trash bins in Shosenkyo. To continue protecting this beautiful nature, we would appreciate it if you could bring a plastic bag to take your garbage back with you when you visit 🛍️ Thank you for your warm cooperation ☺️

The marigolds blooming at the Azumino sightseeing spot, Sōshunfu Kahi, are said to depict the scenery of Azumino eagerly awaiting spring. A music box is installed, so please press the button to listen! 😄

The blue sky and flowers are very beautiful! It's a warm day perfect for a walk♪

It's a clear day in Azumino☀️ The water was crystal clear and looked very beautiful☺️

The stunning scenery of Azumino A breathtaking view from Ohisama Road Blessed with clear autumn weather, a wonderful landscape spread out before us If you stop by Azumino, this is a must-visit spot! 😆

Cosmos blooming in the fallow rice fields and the Northern Alps. There is a cosmos field near the Haishun Fuka Monument. Beyond that are the mountain ranges of Mt. Ariake and Mt. Jonen. Azumino is enjoying clear autumn weather this afternoon. It’s fully autumn in Azumino! 😄

When I looked up, a pale rainbow was arched beyond the mist.

Introduction of the sword from Wakedo Model Number: K381002 Sign: Satsuma Kanko Chichibu Matsuyo Taira Masayoshi Tenmei 5 nen mi 8gatsu Certif: [N.B.T.H.K] Jyuyo Touken Size: Blade length 86.5 cm, Curvature 2.1 cm, Mekugi 2 Hole Country: Satsuma Period: AD 1785 Shape: Shinogi-zukuri, An-tō, wide body, little difference between the base and tip, thick kasane, long length, deep curvature, shallow curvature in the upper half, with a delicate tip Forge: It has a grain pattern with mixed wood grain and flowing skin, with a prominent surface, thick ground, and frequent patterns in the ground Hamon: Notare style with mixed gunome and pointed gunome, well-defined, deep nioi, thick nie, prominent rough nie, and active edge with frequent kinsu, waku, and sunadashi Boshi: Irregular, tapering to a point Nakago: Unsigned, tapering towards the tip, with a rising file pattern Shira-saya: Present Explanation: 　Hōki no Kami Masayuki was the son of the second generation of Ijichi Masayoshi, born in the 18th year of Kyōhō, and took on the name Masayoshi as the third generation. In the first year of Kansei, he received the title Hōki no Kami at the same time as Oku Motohei, passing the name Masayoshi to his legitimate son and changing his own name to Masayuki. He passed away at the age of 86 in the first year of Bunkyū. Masayuki demonstrated superior skills compared to his ancestors, earning a high reputation, and along with Oku Motohei, he is regarded as a leading figure among Satsuma new swordsmiths. Masayuki's works are characterized by a wide body, long length, thick kasane, and generally sturdy construction, with a hamon featuring notare with mixed gunome and pointed gunome, deep nioi, prominent rough nie, and frequent kinsu and sunadashi, reflecting the style of the Sōshū tradition, especially emulating the Shizu school. This work features a steel body with mixed wood grain and flowing skin, resulting in a prominent surface, thick ground, and frequent patterns in the ground. The hamon is notare style with mixed gunome and pointed gunome, with active edges, well-defined, deep nioi, prominent rough nie, and frequent kinsu, nie, and sunadashi, showcasing a typical and outstanding creation of Hōki no Kami Masayuki. Satsuma new swords and new new swords are often robustly constructed with a wide body and heavy feel due to the influence of the Shigen-ryū style, and Masayuki is particularly known for his impressive works. However, there are no comparable examples of such a long and heavy work as this one, and the frequent patterns in the ground are stronger than usual, with the grandeur of the prominent rough nie being exceptional. This should be regarded as a grand work of Hōki no Kami Masayuki's lifetime.

Introduction of the sword from Wakedo Item Number: K381001 Sign: Hizennokuni Oumidaizyo Fujiwara Tadahiro dokoku jyunin Mutsunokami Tadayoshi Certif: [N.B.T.H.K] Jyuyo Touken Size: Blade length 73.9 cm Curvature 2.2 cm Mekugi 1 Hole Country: Hizen Period: First Edo Period Shape: Shinogi-zukuri, an inclined ridge, body width, thickness, with a slightly deep curvature, and a middle cut tip Forging: The surface has a fine wood grain, resulting in a steel texture referred to as 'kome-nuka', with fine ji-nuri Hamon: Straight with shallow undulations, with a small habuchi that appears bright and clear Boshi: Turns into a small maru immediately Tang: Unrefined, pointed sword shape, with a file pattern on the top Shirasaya: Present Description: Omi Daijo Tadahiro and Mutsu no Kami Tadayoshi were swordsmiths of the Hizen, Nabeshima Domain, belonging to the second and third generations of the Hizen swordsmith lineage. The second generation Omi Daijo Tadahiro was the son of the first generation Tadayoshi, and at the age of nineteen, he became the second head of the family after his father Tadayoshi passed away in the ninth year of the Kan'ei era, receiving the title of Omi Daijo in the eighteenth year of the Kan'ei era. He left behind many excellent works until his death in the sixth year of the Genroku era. The third generation Mutsu no Kami Tadayoshi was the son of Omi Daijo Tadahiro, receiving the title of Mutsu Daijo in the third year of the Manji era, and becoming Mutsu no Kami in the first year of the Kanbun era. Due to their long lives, the second generation outlived their father. The short period of sword-making and the brief time spent on works during his father's era resulted in an extremely low number of pieces. However, he was known for his exceptional handling of steel, demonstrating extraordinary talent, earning the title of the third generation Mutsu. This piece is a collaboration between the second generation Omi Daijo and the third generation Mutsu no Kami, with both the ji and ha being of excellent quality, making it a masterpiece. Although there are few works from the third generation, collaborations are even rarer and hold high documentary value.

🎪Wakasa Mihama "Town Travel" Expo will be held🎪 During this period, residents of Mihama Town in Fukui Prefecture will serve as "navigators" and host special programs just for this event✨ This is not just a journey to visit tourist facilities. It is a unique experience created by the locals who love their town, featuring special journeys that are not introduced anywhere else‼️ From cooking breakfast in a traditional stove to regattas on the lake, walking through the villages of the Kitamaebune, and trap hunting with hunters. We have prepared a total of 11 programs where you can meet the proud places and people of Mihama🫡 🗒️Program List 01｜ Experience Cooking Breakfast in a Traditional Stove A meal prepared with only local ingredients in the dirt floor of Deer Park Date: Monday, October 26, 2026 Duration: 2 hours (Gathering at 7:00 AM - Dismissal at 9:00 AM) Participation Fee: 3,000 yen per person (tax included) Location: Shinjō, Mihama Town (Nature Experience Center, Deer Park) Capacity: 10 people 02｜ Rainbow Line Night Tour Stargazing at the first parking lot, specially opened at night Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026 Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes (Check-in at 5:30 PM - Dismissal at 8:00 PM) Participation Fee: 5,500 yen per person (tax included) Location: Mihama Town (Gathering at Mihama Town Hall - Rainbow Line) Capacity: 15 people 03｜ Private Night Cruise DJ record event limited to the same generation With a tasting of Hayaseura Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026 Duration: 2 hours (Check-in at 5:30 PM - Dismissal at 7:30 PM, including 90 minutes of boarding) Participation Fee: 7,000 yen per person (tax included) Location: Mihama Town (Mikata Five Lakes Nature Cruises Lake Center, around Lake Kukuriko) Capacity: 20 people 04｜ Cycling Tour of About 35 km from Nyu to Sugahama With a special opening lunch of local fish at Bentenzaki Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026 Duration: 5 hours and 30 minutes (Gathering at 9:30 AM - Dismissal at 3:00 PM) Participation Fee: 7,000 yen per person (including electric bicycle rental), 5,500 yen per person (if bringing your own bicycle) Location: Mihama Town (Departing from JR Mihama Station, covering Nyu, Sugahama, and Sagaki) Capacity: 12 people 05｜ Morning Regatta Experience and Onigiri on the Lake Mihama-style morning activity Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026 Duration: 3 hours (Check-in at 7:00 AM - Dismissal at 10:00 AM) Participation Fee: 4,000 yen per person (tax included) Location: Kukuriko, Mihama Town (Mihama Town B&G Marine Center - Lake Kukuriko) Capacity: 15 people (5 people per crew x 3) / Applications are accepted in units of 5 people (1 crew) 06｜ Sea Glass Collecting and Craft Making An afternoon watching the sunset over the Sea of Japan Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026 Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes (Check-in at 2:00 PM - Dismissal at 5:30 PM) Participation Fee: 2,000 yen per person (tax included) Location: Takenami, Mihama Town (Takenami Disaster Prevention Center - Takenami Beach) Capacity: 20 people 07｜ Gourmet BBQ with Only Mihama Produce and Stargazing Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026 Duration: 3 hours (Gathering at 5:30 PM - Dismissal at 8:30 PM) Participation Fee: 7,500 yen per person (including alcohol), 5,500 yen per person (soft drinks only) Location: Shinjō, Mihama Town (Kumotani) (Kumotani Life Improvement Center) Capacity: 30 people 08｜ Walking Tour of the Kitamaebune Shipowner Village, a Japanese Heritage Site Special opening of portable shrines and floats, with a sake lees lunch Date: Thursday, November 19, 2026 Duration: 3 hours (Gathering at 10:00 AM - Dismissal at 1:00 PM) Participation Fee: 6,500 yen per person (tax included) Location: Hayase, Mihama Town (Hayase Fishing Port, Hiyoshi Shrine, Zuirinji, Nuno-e Museum, Ao-kai Cafeteria) Capacity: 10 people 09｜ Experience Making Shimekazari Take home New Year's decorations purified at the Grand Festival Date: Monday, November 23, 2026 (Holiday) Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes (Gathering at 9:00 AM - Dismissal at 11:30 AM) Participation Fee: 3,000 yen per person (tax included) Location: Miyashiro, Mihama Town (Mimi Shrine) Capacity: 8 people 10｜ Experience Trap Hunting with Hunters Includes a tour of the butchering process and a game barbecue Date: Saturday, November 28, 2026 Duration: About 3 to 4 hours (Gathering at 9:00 AM - Dismissal sequentially after 12:00 PM, including barbecue) Participation Fee: 8,000 yen per person (tax included) Location: Shinjō, Mihama Town (BON1029, nearby mountains, and the valley) Capacity: 10 people 11｜ Experience Making Dried Persimmons From persimmon picking to making persimmon jelly Date: Saturday, November 28, 2026 Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes (Gathering at 1:00 PM - Dismissal at 3:30 PM) Participation Fee: 2,000 yen per group (up to 3 people) (tax included) Location: Sagaki, Mihama Town (Kuniyoshi Kaikan - Persimmon fields in Sagaki) Capacity: 20 groups ▼For details and reservations, click here https://wakasa-mihama.jp/machitabi/... Or, From the link in the profile or DM ▼Contact Mihama Town Tourism Promotion Division TEL 0770-32-6705 Organized by: Mihama Town

Azumino is a treasure trove of "Dosojin" Standing as the village's guardian deity, they can be found at the center of the village, along roads, and at crossroads Created with hopes for abundant harvests, good health, prosperity for descendants, and prevention of evil spirits and diseases Why not rent a bicycle and explore the picturesque countryside? 😄

The view from Azumino features rice fields where the harvest is not yet complete and the Northern Alps with a clear sight of the distant Hakuba mountains😀 This is a landscape unique to Azumino.

The studio of metal sculptor Daido Nakajima in Azumino✨ The presence of the gigantic animals made of stainless steel is astounding…❗️ The sculptural beauty shines in the light, embodying a sense of dynamism within its heaviness. The collaboration of the rich natural scenery of Azumino and the powerful metal art is breathtaking! 😆 *We are visiting and photographing with special permission.

On a clear day in Azumino, the towering Mt. Jonen stands majestically at the end of an endless road. Traveling this path makes you feel grateful for coming to Azumino. The refreshing feeling is beyond what photos can convey. This view is from near Jōnen Dōsojin. 😄