#021 [Tourist Spot Feature Part 4 ✨] Introducing one of Tsunocho’s landmarks, Roadside Station Tsuno! Roadside Station Tsuno sits along Route 10 in Tsunocho and buzzes with visitors every day. Look around the parking lot and you’ll be surprised to see mostly out-of-prefecture license plates on the cars and trucks. Although it fills with travelers and drivers, the station is actually still relatively new. Roadside Station Tsuno opened on July 31, 2013, the day before Tsuno Shrine Summer Festival, the town’s signature celebration. From the moment it opened, it welcomed many guests and contributed greatly to Tsunocho’s growth. Its location on National Route 10 helps draw crowds, but there are other reasons too. Those reasons are its low prices and its facilities. Roadside Station Tsuno has even ranked third in past Miyazaki Prefecture roadside station listings, a sign of its strong reputation. First, about the low prices: items are noticeably cheaper than usual. That’s because products come straight from local producers. Skipping middlemen lets vendors sell at lower prices. By the way, I also buy vegetables and fruit at Roadside Station Tsuno. Next, the facilities. While they haven’t changed much since opening, the station offers a well-equipped product area, a food court, an information and rest corner, a nursing room, and restrooms with diaper-changing stations. Having diaper-changing tables is especially helpful for families with young children. The information and rest corner holds flyers and posters about Tsunocho and attractions across the prefecture. In the food court you’ll find Fukuura Cafeteria, famous for its seafood bowls; Osuzu‑an, serving jidori chicken soba; Ichido ramen; and a soft-serve ice cream stand. I love ramen, so I often eat here. The product area is naturally very popular, offering seasonal vegetables and fruit. At this time of year you’ll see many mandarins, strawberries, and cabbage on display. Isn’t having well-equipped facilities something very important for visitors? Whether you’ve never been to Roadside Station Tsuno or you’ve visited before, please come and see it for yourself.

#019 Long time no post! This time, I will introduce two municipalities connected to Tsunocho. I will touch on how those relationships came about, each town’s characteristics, recommended spots, and local foods. [Sister City – Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture] Itoman City sits at the southern tip of Okinawa Main Island. Its population is about 60,000. The city tree is the banyan (gajumaru), and the city flowers are periwinkle (nichi-nichi-so) and bougainvillea. Tsunocho’s bond with Itoman City deepened during wartime (after 1944), when 82 parents and children from Itoman Town (now Itoman City) were evacuated as a group to Tsunocho. Forty years later, people who had been elementary school students at the time visited Tsunocho, which sparked further exchanges, and on December 1, 1993, Itoman City and Tsunocho concluded a sister-city agreement. Exchanges between various organizations continue to this day. [Specialties of Itoman City] ⦿ Seiika (common name: Sodeika) This squid is widely caught around Okinawa Prefecture and ranks among the largest edible squids, reaching about one meter in length and around 20 kilograms in weight. Its texture is pleasantly chewy, and it is used for sashimi as well as fried dishes. ⦿ ITOMAN / S craft beer This happoshu (low-malt beer) features label art meant to match fish dishes and luxuriously uses fruits produced in Itoman. The lineup includes Taman, a salt-lemon beer with fruity flavor and a sharp finish; Akamachi, a tropical beer with rich aroma and bitterness; and Irabucha, a spice beer that balances spiciness with citrus freshness. [Places to Visit in Itoman City] ⦿ Himeyuri Peace Museum Opened on June 23, 1989, the museum preserves the horrors of war and the importance of peace for future generations. Exhibits include belongings of the Himeyuri students, photographs, survivor testimony videos, and dioramas recreating part of the Nanjo army hospital cave and the interior of the Ihara Third Surgical Cave. Many visitors still come to offer prayers for peace. Postal code 901-0344 671-1 Ihara, Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture ⦿ Roadside Station Itoman The seventh roadside station in Okinawa Prefecture and one of the largest in the prefecture. The site houses the Itoman City Product Center, a farmers’ market, the Itoman Fishing Cooperative Fish Center, and the Itoman City Tourism Association, bringing together sea and mountain specialties from Itoman. Shoppers from across the prefecture flock here for fresh vegetables and seafood from Itoman. Recommended for food lovers. Postal code 901-0306 4-19-1 Nishizaki, Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture [Why Itoman Is Great] In February this year I visited Itoman for the first time as part of an exchange program. What struck me was the warmth of the people. Even strangers felt easy to talk to with no barriers. At the Itoman fair, people knew Tsunocho as if it were natural, and sometimes used dialects so strong I couldn’t fully understand them — yet even that felt warm. During the three-day visit we had welcome parties every night. I had worried about that beforehand, but those worries turned out to be unnecessary. The people of Itoman treated us without formality, offered hospitality, and showed a communal spirit and warmth I had not experienced in Miyazaki, making me want to return. [Friendship City – Saromacho, Hokkaido] Saromacho lies almost at the center of the Okhotsk General Subprefecture and faces Lake Saroma to the north. Its total population is about 4,600. The town tree is the large-leaved linden (Oobabodaiyu) and the town flower is the Ezo-murasaki azalea. Tsunocho and Saromacho began exchanges in 1993 through ties created by Toyo Tire test courses located to the south and north, and various organizations, including chambers of commerce, have deepened friendship through events and booths. In June 2014 they formally concluded an economic exchange partnership, and today each town’s roadside stations sell the other’s specialties. Especially popular is Saromacho’s young scallops, sold at Roadside Station Tsuno — they sell out almost immediately after restocking. [Specialties of Saromacho] ⦿ Scallops from Lake Saroma Scallops harvested in Saromacho, which has Hokkaido’s largest Lake Saroma, have firm flesh, a pleasant texture, and sweetness. As the birthplace of scallop aquaculture in Hokkaido, Lake Saroma scallops grow large and are shipped for raw consumption as shell-on scallops or raw adductor muscle. Processing facilities also make smoked oil–marinated scallops and dried adductor products, which are exported worldwide. These large, delicious scallops even converted me from someone who couldn’t eat scallops to someone who can! ⦿ Pumpkins Pumpkins are rich in vitamins, highly nutritious, and popular as a low-allergen food. At the JA Saroma pumpkin processing plant, pumpkins collected from growers are stored and sorted into fresh produce, winter-solstice pumpkins, and decorative pumpkins for Halloween. They also produce powdered, flaked, and frozen pumpkin paste as processed products. Decorative pumpkins are several times larger than ordinary pumpkins and turn orange through ripening rather than staying green. Their products contain no additives and are used even for baby weaning foods, making them popular as safe, versatile items. [Places to Visit in Saromacho] ⦿ Lake Saroma Observatory Horoiwa Mountain, at 376 meters, sits nearly at the center of Lake Saroma’s coastline. Because no tall mountains surround it, the view from here is outstanding. The Lake Saroma Observatory near the summit is the only place from which you can see the entire lake. You can see the sandbar separating the lake and the sea, the Sea of Okhotsk in the distance, and even the Shiretoko Mountains on the horizon. Enjoy this vast panorama that you can see only here. Postal code 093-0421 Naniwa, Saromacho, Tokoro District, Hokkaido ⦿ Roadside Station Saroma Lake and Bussankan Minori Along Japan National Route 238 facing Lake Saroma, you’ll find the roadside station and product center. The building is designed to evoke the town’s core dairy industry with imagery of a cowshed and a silo. The facility offers rest spaces for tourists and drivers and serves as a gateway for visitors to Lake Saroma. The product center sells local specialties and processed goods such as scallops and pumpkins from Saromacho, making it a hub for souvenirs from eastern Hokkaido. Shipping nationwide is available. The soft-serve ice cream made from local pumpkins is reportedly the shop’s most popular item. Postal code 093-0421 121-3 Naniwa, Saromacho, Tokoro District, Hokkaido [Why Saroma Is Great] First, Saroma’s great natural environment. I went to Hokkaido for the first time last year. What moved me then was the richness and vastness of Saroma’s nature. When people think of Hokkaido, they usually picture tourist spots like Sapporo or Otaru, but I want to recommend Saroma. Major tourist spots have their charms, of course. As someone who loves nature, I found Saroma extremely comfortable. I only stayed two days, but it felt livable enough to consider moving there. Roads are wide, grasslands are expansive, and everything feels huge. It was impressive. Above all, the food is delicious. The scallops that even I, who once disliked seafood, learned to enjoy are from Saroma, and the miso ramen made with Sapporo miso was superb. I also felt the kindness of the people. Perhaps their atmosphere reminded me of Tsunocho, which resonated with me. *I wanted to write more, but I ran out of characters…

#018 It has gotten cold enough that you’ll need a jacket. Tsunocho hosts a variety of events in the coming season. In this post, we’ll introduce the main events taking place through the end of the year all at once. Tsunocho Events: Autumn 🍂 to Year-end 1. Classic Car Festival Car Festa Miyazaki in Tsuno This classic car festival is held at Tsuno Winery every year on the fourth Sunday of November. Cool, cute, nostalgic — many precious classic cars from those days gather here. Although there are no stage performances at the venue, numerous food and craft stalls attract many car enthusiasts. Even people who aren’t normally into cars will likely find themselves saying, “Wow, that brings back memories.” Date and time: Sunday, November 23, 2025, 10:00–15:00 Location: Tsuno Winery Plaza Admission is free. Everyone is welcome. 2. Tsuno Town Industry Festival Following the summer festival, the town’s major event, the Industry Festival, will be held again this year. This year the venue changes to the Tsunomachi Nakamachi Market Site (next to Kikuya Kashiho). On the day there will be a mobile petting zoo, stage shows, and a performance by Miyazaki Prefecture’s local hero, Tenson Kourin Himkaiser. There will also be many food trucks and tent vendors. At the end of the stage program, a big raffle will award popular game consoles, sought-after smartwatches, and specialty products from the local area, sister city Itoman City, and friendship city Saromacho. Date and time: Sunday, November 30, 2025, 9:00–15:00 Location: Tsunomachi Nakamachi Market Site (next to Kikuya Kashiho, in front of Honjin Akagike Residence) Admission is free. We look forward to welcoming you on the day.

#017 Tsunocho has about 50 eateries and confectionery shops. This is the fourth installment of our gourmet series! We introduce a beloved ramen shop that could rightly be called the face of Tsunocho. – Falling for a painstakingly perfected flavor – Homemade Noodles En Ramen (En Ramen) En Ramen sits in the Mikazukibaru area of Tsunocho, very close to the previously featured Hidenoya Udon. In Kyushu, where tonkotsu culture runs deep, you can enjoy authentic shoyu ramen here, and these days people come not only from around town but from other prefectures just to eat it. They offer toppings like miso, salt, and a local Tsuno-style tomato ramen, but the signature and most popular dish at En Ramen is shina-soba shoyu. What is shina-soba? I didn’t know at first either. It makes you wonder—why call it soba at a ramen shop? In fact, shina-soba is an old name for ramen. In the Kanto region, people use shina-soba to refer to a light, clear shoyu ramen. When the owner lived in Kanto, he was so surprised by the deliciousness of shina-soba that, when creating his own menu, he deliberately named the dish shina-soba rather than calling it shoyu ramen. I’ve tried their shina-soba myself and all I can say is, “Tege, umai!” — it’s incredibly tasty. That’s no accident: the owner focuses strongly on the aftertaste, and preparation sometimes starts as early as 4 or 5 a.m. It’s astonishing. Also, they use no chemical seasonings at all and take great care with the noodles, broth, toppings, and even the chopsticks, pursuing the natural flavors of their ingredients. If you visit Tsunocho, En Ramen is well worth a stop. You might find yourself hooked on their ramen before you know it. Homemade Noodles En Ramen Hours: 11:30–13:30 ※Because of the limited hours, you may need to wait in line. Closed: Every Sunday and national holidays (occasional temporary closures) Parking: 20 spaces ☎ 0983-25-2788 Instagram ⇒ @enramen.tsuno_yome

#016 It's been raining a lot lately and hard to get comfortable, but we are gradually starting to feel the coolness of autumn. Before we know it, September is almost over. Next is October, and speaking of October... yes, Halloween!! This time, we introduce Halloween events held in Tsunocho. ●First, the Youth Association Liaison Council presents "Wine Hill Halloween Night" — come in costume and enjoy a fun evening together on the winery hill! October 18 (Saturday) 17:00–20:00 200 yen for those junior high school age and older ●Halloween Volunteer! This volunteer event is organized by the NPO Tawawa Heart Net. Dress up and pick up litter, then grab some candy afterward! October 18 (Saturday) 9:50–11:30 Capacity 30 people. Applications accepted until October 17! ※Apply via the QR code on the flyer photo. ●The Nakamachi district of Tsunocho will be decked out for Halloween! Children will go door to door in the district to collect treats. October 19 (Sunday) 13:00–15:00 (planned) First 60 applicants. Application period: September 14–September 28 ※Apply via the QR code on the flyer photo. There are many different events. Put on a Halloween costume and enjoy this once-a-year celebration.

#015 "Special Report" A new program sharing the charms and seasonal news of Tsunocho in Miyazaki Prefecture has launched! The first episode aired on Wednesday, September 10. It was broadcast on UMK Television Miyazaki, and the program is called Roadside Station Tsuno "Tsunocchao"!! The show is packed with Tsunocho’s many attractions and timely information! Program title: Roadside Station Tsuno "Tsunocchao" Air date: Every second Wednesday of the month, 21:54–22:00 Content: Promoting Tsunocho’s attractions and seasonal news MC: Reina Anai Reina Anai, a native of Tsunocho, appears on UMK Television Miyazaki’s Yokaban!! and 4ji doki! and on Miyazaki Sunshine FM’s Monday Pupupu and Keiichi Yamamoto’s Iyoiyo Desuyo. The show is guaranteed to be fun!! Please tune in!

#014 Roadside Station Tsuno 12th Anniversary Thanksgiving Festival!!✨ It has been 12 years since Roadside Station was built in Tsunocho, and to thank everyone who has visited so far, a gratitude festival will be held! Schedule: September 21–23, 2025 September 21 only: Spiny Lobster Festival From 10:00, limited quantities will be sold! There will be a direct sale of spiny lobster and spiny lobster miso soup for sale. *Sales end when supplies run out; miso soup is limited to one bowl per person.* September 23: Stage events and food trucks gather!! There will also be a booth offering vascular age measurement and internal sugar measurement by Meiji Yasuda Life! Three-day common programs 1. Sale of Roadside Station original lucky bags with a 12th-anniversary commemorative ticket 2. Follow Roadside Station Tsuno on Instagram to receive a “Prittsuno” gift 3. Various special offerings at the food and drink booths! Inquiries: 0983-25-5055 (Roadside Station Tsuno) Everyone, please come and check out the thanksgiving festival at Roadside Station Tsuno!!

#013 According to the calendar it’s already autumn! 🍂 But it’s still hot and humid. Introducing the “Saroma Great Harvest Festival,” planned to be held in Saroma, Hokkaido, a sister city of Tsunocho! First, let us explain that our town, Tsunocho, is home to a tire test course operated by TOYO TIRE Corporation. That test course exists in both Tsunocho and Saroma, Hokkaido. According to what we heard, summer tires are tested in Tsunocho and winter tires in Saroma, and then they become commercial products. This TOYO TIRE test course is what linked Tsunocho and Saroma as sister cities. [Saroma Great Harvest Festival] This harvest festival gives thanks for the year’s bounty and lets visitors enjoy seafood and mountain produce, including a direct sale of farmed scallops from Lake Saroma and special-price meat sales. There is a grand lottery with a total prize pool of 1,000,000 yen and stage events by well-known artists, drawing about 10,000 visitors each year. Date: Sunday, October 5, 2025 Location: Toyo Tire Saroma Test Course Our town, Tsunocho, will also have a booth at this event. We’ll be grilling local free-range chicken, its charcoal aroma whetting your appetite—come and enjoy! *We had no photos. Sorry (´;ω;｀)*

#012 Tsunocho is home to about fifty restaurants and confectioneries. This is the third installment in our gourmet series! Here we introduce a long-established Japanese and Western confectionery shop loved both inside and outside the town. ~Founded in 1950, a taste that recalls Tsunocho~ Kashiho Kikuya Kikuya is a long-standing Japanese and Western confectionery shop founded in 1950 by the family of my childhood friend. It continues to be loved by both local residents and visitors from outside the town. Kikuya makes many well-known sweets. First is the wagashi called “Ichinomiya,” which people associate with Kikuya. The name comes from the town’s representative sightseeing spot, Tsuno Shrine, formally the ichinomiya of Hyūga Province. The moist cake contains white bean paste and cream, combining the best of Japanese and Western tastes. Other confections that remind people of Tsunocho include Tsuno Station, Tsunayahime, and Kinfugu Monaka. Why use names derived from Tsunocho? The owners say they want recipients to think, “This is from Tsunocho,” or “How nostalgic.” Indeed, someone who left the prefecture and receives one of these sweets after years would likely feel nostalgic. Such treats exist in Tsuno. These days, customers come from within the town, from other towns, and even from other prefectures specifically to buy these sweets. In addition to regular items, Kikuya also makes custom birthday cakes featuring character designs. That, too, is one reason the shop remains beloved. Kikuya’s confections are also sold at the station café inside the tourism association office. They make excellent gifts for loved ones or people who have helped you. Hours 9:00–18:00 Sundays 14:00–17:00 Closed Irregular holidays Parking About 10 spaces Phone 0983-25-0127 Address 〒889-1201 4939 Kawakita, Tsunocho, Koyu District, Miyazaki Prefecture (in front of Akagike Residence)

#011 Tourist Spot Feature Part 3✨ Introducing a little-known Tsunocho attraction: Fudo Park!! Fudo Park, on the left side of the hill leading to Tsuno Winery, sits within the precincts of the Fudo Myo-o and is a spot to enjoy cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring. The cherry trees peak from mid-March to early April, drawing visitors from both inside and outside the town for hanami, and a flower festival has been held there in the past. It’s a minor location, but a well-kept local secret!! When I was in kindergarten the park was large enough to hold our sports day. Nearby parking holds about 50 cars, and both the park and the parking lot are free and accessible 24 hours a day. The park has a stairway that leads up to Taki Shrine, a subordinate shrine of Tsuno Shrine, the ichinomiya of Hyūga Province. The enshrined deity is the water god Takaokami no Kami, who is said to grant relief from ear ailments and bring peaceful ears. When you visit Tsunocho, why not stop by once? Access: About a 10-minute drive from tsuno station Nearby building: Nursing home Aijuen Tsuno Winery Address: 11592-1 Kawakita, Tsunocho, Koyu District, Miyazaki Prefecture (address of Aijuen)

#010 Long time no post!! Today I’ll introduce Tsuno Town’s fireworks display and river festival, held on Friday, August 22. Tsuno Citizens’ Fireworks Display Organized by the Tsuno Citizens’ Fireworks Display Executive Committee, this show launches from rice fields where the harvest is finished. No specific viewing areas are designated, so many watch from the concurrently held river festival site, while others enjoy clear views from farther away. The fireworks look different depending on where you watch, and about 3,000 shells will light up the night sky over Tsuno. The highlight is that you can look down on the fireworks from the hillside parking lot of Tsuno Winery. Why not come for a fireworks experience you can’t usually have? Date: Friday, August 22, 2025 Time: From 8:00 PM TEL: 0983-25-5501 (Tsuno Winery) If it rains, the event will be postponed to Sunday, August 24. Tsuno Town River Festival Held at the same time as the Tsuno Citizens’ Fireworks Display, this river festival is organized by the Tsuno Chamber of Commerce and Industry Youth Division. Food stalls line the Tsuno River Fureai Street beside Tono Shrine, and the event features plenty of fun stage programs for children. Date: Friday, August 22, 2025 Time: 3:00 PM–9:00 PM TEL: 0983-25-0200 (Tsuno Chamber of Commerce and Industry) Parking: Please use Roadside Station Tsuno. On the day of the event, Tsuno Winery and the area around Tono Shrine are expected to be crowded with cars and visitors from about one hour before the fireworks launch. Please take care when you come.

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

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

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

#006 This time we introduce Ozusu Campground, located on Mt. Osuzu, the mountain that represents Tsunocho! ◆Overview of Ozusu Campground Ozusu Campground has three separate areas. ❶ Ozusu Ikoi no Shinrinkan (Forest Rest House) Rest room usage fees Adult (junior high school and older) per person / per night: 1,050 yen (tax included) Child (elementary school) per person / per night: 520 yen (tax included) Private booking per night: 10,480 yen (tax included) ※Only the wooden floor space is provided; bedding and similar items are not supplied, so please bring your own. ● Shower room Coin shower per use: 100 yen / 3 minutes ※Showers operate only in July, August, and September. ● Toilets / dishwashing area The toilets and dishwashing area are available year-round. ※Please cooperate in conserving water. ❷ Auto free site Bring-your-own tent per unit / per night: 840 yen Camping car per vehicle / per night: 840 yen ❸ Mountain hut rest area About 25 tatami-mat sized wooden floor area: free of charge With these three areas, visitors enjoy camping here. Personally, I think camping here in the hot summer and swimming in the nearby river is a great option! Even in summer, Mt. Osuzu can be surprisingly cool, so you can have a comfortable camping experience. ◆Notes and precautions Next, we explain the campground rules and precautions. ・Open fires directly on the ground are prohibited. Always use a BBQ grill or fire pit. ・Pitching tents outside the free site is prohibited. ・Please take all trash home with you, including charcoal and ashes. ・The campground’s tap water is not potable; please bring drinking water. ・Except for the Forest Rest House with toilets and a cooking area, there are no lighting fixtures, so bring a flashlight or LED lantern as needed. ・Coin showers are available only from July to September. ・From around April to November (especially the hot, humid period from June to September), leech activity increases and caution is advised. Wear long sleeves and long pants and thick socks to avoid skin exposure; insect repellent spray or saline solution can be effective. When the rainy season ends, summer is finally here. Campers of all levels, from enthusiasts to beginners, are welcome! ◆How to make a reservation Reservations can basically be made on the Tsunocho Tourism Association website. Reservations by phone are also available. [Contact information] Tsunocho Tourism Association (weekdays 8:30–17:00) TEL 0983-25-5712

#005 This time, I will introduce the Tsuno town soccer team aiming to join the J.League, Veros Chronos Tsuno. Veros, currently based in Tsunocho, Koyu District, Miyazaki Prefecture, plays in the Kyushu Soccer League and is striving to join the J.League. In this post, I will touch on Veros’s details, history, initiatives, and one player I worked with. ◆Details about Veros The hometown is Tsunocho and the home stadium is Tsunocho Fujimi Park Athletic Stadium, where the team trains daily toward its goals. The club color is asagi (light blue-green), and the operating corporation is J.FC Miyazaki Co., Ltd., founded in 2014. ◆History of Veros In 2019, J.FC MIYAZAKI (the former team of Veros) and the general incorporated association Tsuno Sports Commission of Tsunocho signed an agreement on the Tsuno vocational training project. The following year they moved the hometown from Miyazaki City to Tsunocho and adopted the current asagi club color. The next year the club name changed to Veros Chronos Tsuno, and the team logo and emblem were revamped. Veros’s history as a name is short, but the team actually has a much longer background. I will abbreviate that history here. By the way, the name Veros Chronos Tsuno comes from combining the Greek word for “arrow,” veros, referring to Yatake Falls in Tsunocho, and Chronos, the Greek mythological god of agriculture. ◆Recent Veros I started working at the Tsuno Town Tourism Association in April last year, and since then I learned about Veros, worked with them, and began supporting the team. Many Veros players balance being professional footballers and company employees. The root of this is the regional revitalization cooperation program. The program brings people from urban areas to depopulated or disadvantaged regions to live and carry out community revitalization activities. Veros adopts this system: players devote their mornings to soccer and work at various places in the afternoons. Employers include local farmers, companies, and organizations in Tsunocho, grouped as digital teams or agricultural teams. Last year, one player was assigned to the tourism association as a cooperation squad member for a year. Veros’s youth teams are also attracting attention. As part of the general incorporated association Tsuno Sports Academy’s efforts, they run a unique, community-engaged project to nurture young people from childhood through youth in sport, daily life, education, vocational training, and local engagement. Before being athletes, these young people grow into good members of society, serve as role models for the community, and lead regional development—this kind of human resource development may be unique to this town. Frankly, if I imagined myself as a professional athlete, I would find it hard to accept working another job while still a pro; I might wonder why I had to do it. Because of that doubt, I asked players about it. ◆A player who was seconded to the tourism association as a cooperation squad member said “Certainly, some players question doing farming or working with computers while being professionals. Some players are dissatisfied with the team’s methods and policies. Still, this characteristic is rare among other teams, and for those of us without social experience, it’s a valuable opportunity. It’s rewarding, and it has changed how I think about everyday life. Joining this tourism association made me feel that, being of an age called a veteran, I must set an example for the team, and the results here strengthen ties with local residents. When I consider life after retirement, some will enter society or stay involved with soccer. In society, past athletic experience hardly carries weight. That’s why joining Veros prompted me to think about life after retirement and who I will be when I re-enter society. I want to say this: these experiences become a wonderful asset in life. There will come a time when you think, ‘It was because of that experience,’ or ‘Because I was at Veros.’ Young players might not understand now, but by working hard where you are, you earn recognition from teammates, coaches, staff, and, more broadly, local residents. That recognition will bring support not just for you but for the team. Because it’s a small town, working together and helping each other makes the team rooted in the community and able to aim higher.” He told me this. He now lives in Kanagawa Prefecture and works as a secretary to a local assembly member. That was surprising, but it’s undoubtedly the result of what he built for himself. Next, I will talk about what I felt during the year I worked with him. When I joined the tourism association in April 2024, he had been dispatched about two months earlier as the association’s first cooperation squad member. My first impression was that he looked flashy, but we quickly became close and often acted together. At the summer festival, under the blazing sun, our team carried the mikoshi shrine float. We traveled together on business to the sister city Saroma in Hokkaido and to the sister city Itoman in Okinawa Prefecture, where he was in charge of grilling local jidori chicken over charcoal at events. Looking back, he was a hard worker. The event we worked hardest on together was one of Tsunocho’s famous festivals, the Industry Festival. We arranged stalls and food trucks, scoped venues, and took on new challenges together. I may have seen him more as a respected senior colleague at work than merely as a soccer player. He rarely acted like a footballer while working. Then, at the end of 2024, he retired from soccer, left the cooperation squad, and became a secretary to an assembly member. It is common for retired professional athletes to stay in sports as managers, coaches, sports directors, or move into team management. I was amazed that he became a secretary to an assembly member after retirement. No wonder it was covered in online news. Working with someone like him from my first year as a professional was a valuable experience for me too. I write this because I believe Veros Chronos’s initiatives have real meaning. These efforts greatly influence players’ careers after retirement. Some players fell in love with Tsunocho after joining Veros and chose to live here after retirement. By not only cheering the team but cooperating with local residents, I am convinced that both Tsunocho and Veros will develop together. This year, they dominated the league with five wins and one loss, and in the Emperor’s Cup they beat J3’s Gainare Tottori, setting up a second-round match against J1 Nagoya Grampus on June 11. I hope for a giant-killing upset. I will continue to watch Veros Chronos Tsuno’s progress!!

#004 It's getting a bit warmer little by little! It seems the rainy season began today in southern Kyushu, but I'm not someone who dislikes rain! Now, as the rainy season ends, summer will arrive all at once. By the calendar it's already summer, so let me introduce Tsuno Shrine Summer Grand Festival, a summer tradition of Tsunocho in Miyazaki Prefecture! 【Origins of the Tsuno Shrine Summer Grand Festival】 When you think of summer, you picture fireworks, food stalls, and bon dancing. Different regions have their own traditional events, like Aomori's Nebuta Festival or Kyoto's Gion Festival. So what is the traditional event in Tsunocho? It is the Tsuno Shrine Summer Festival. Festivals are rarely held without reason; they usually serve a purpose, such as protecting crops from pests and natural disasters, warding off epidemics, or fostering community ties. What about the Tsuno Shrine Summer Grand Festival? In fact, this festival has an origin. Its origin is said to trace back to an old account in which Empress Jingū invited ritual ceremonies onto her ship during her expedition to Silla. The festival's purposes reflect Tsunocho's character as a town with thriving agriculture and livestock. People pray to drive away crop-damaging pests, repel typhoon-related damage—which Miyazaki Prefecture is susceptible to—and ward off epidemics. However, the enshrined deity at Tsuno Shrine, Ōkuninushi no Mikoto, is also a god of water, so the festival day sometimes brings rain, and a few years ago a typhoon struck directly. Even so, townspeople continue to hold the festival without stopping. 【The festival’s appeal】 People born and raised in Tsunocho often say in unison, "I won't come home for Bon or New Year, but I always come back for the summer festival" or "It's not summer unless I go to the summer festival." They look forward to it every year. You might wonder, really? I feel the same way. Born and raised in Tsunocho, I have loved this festival since childhood. When I was in my third year of junior high, I always helped carry my school's taiko float. That experience made me appreciate the float's coolness and sense of purpose, and it made me want to carry a float someday. Let me introduce the charms of the Tsuno Shrine Summer Grand Festival. ◆Festival dates Every year on August 1 and 2 ◆Introduction to the taiko floats and more In addition to the shrine's gilded portable shrine, several taiko floats appear at this festival. These floats are arguably the festival's main attraction. ・Hamawaka Taiko Float (Shimohama district) ・Shinmachi Taiko Float (Shinmachi district) ・Kitawaka Taiko Float (Kitamachi district) ・Idobata Taiko Float (mainly Matsubara district) These four town floats parade through the town for two days and, after the shrine entry on the second day, engage in a kenka clash. Other participants include the Tsuno Junior High School taiko float, Shimohama children's taiko float, Shicho children's taiko float, and the Ichinomiya Nursery School mikoshi, all raising the festive spirit. The festival atmosphere is further heightened by Tsuno Youth Taiko, djembe drums, the Matsubara lion dance, Yosakoi Miroku troupe, and dances performed by each elementary school. Over the two days, the sound of drums echoes from many places. ◆What happens over the two days On the first day, the "Hama-oroshi" procession takes place. Sarutahiko and the lion cleanse evil spirits along the route while leading the mikoshi. A burly Sarutahiko strikes a tree branch on the ground, and the lion bites the heads of onlookers as it walks. The spectacle can make children burst into tears. Behind them, boys of junior high carry the gilded mikoshi. Next comes Tsuno Junior High's taiko float. Until the Hama-oroshi, girls carry the taiko float. Then the four town floats follow, carried with shouts that match the middle schoolers' intensity, and the Hama-oroshi proceeds. On the second day, the taiko floats parade through the town. In the evening the mikoshi departs down the shopping street, followed by the other taiko floats. Ahead lies the finale at Tsuno Shrine, the Ichinomiya of Hyūga Province. Thousands of spectators gather in front of the shrine's east torii to witness the dramatic scene, watching and waiting toward the sound of drums. At 7:00 p.m., when the mikoshi and all taiko floats pass through the torii, the shrine entry concludes. Actually, spectators are especially there for what comes after the entry. After the shrine entry comes, as touched on above, the "kenka" between taiko floats. Hearing "kenka," you might imagine fistfights or police intervention, but rest assured: no punching occurs, and police are present. In the past there were accidents and real fights, but not anymore. The kenka involves ramming the floats together and pushing. Pushing a few meters declares victory. Some visitors come from outside the prefecture or from abroad just to see this. The festival is that compelling and worth visiting. ◆Conclusion The Tsuno Shrine Summer Grand Festival, one of Tsunocho's attractions, embodies history and the dedication of the people who have carried it forward. Similar festivals exist across Japan, but each has its own history, charms, and scenery. The summer grand festival that Tsuno townspeople have built over decades is waiting for you—please visit at least once.

#002 Tsunocho has about 50 restaurants and confectionery shops. This is the first installment of our gourmet series: a long‑standing yakiniku and Chinese restaurant with 45 years of history. ~ Founded in 1980: a Chinese restaurant beloved by the townspeople ~ Seikouen This place exudes a classic, established feel and is the town’s only combined yakiniku and Chinese restaurant, now celebrating 45 years. The restaurant was already well known in Tsunocho, but after being featured on a Miyazaki TV program in 2024 it gained popularity from outside the town, and these days it’s often fully booked. The must‑try dish at Seikouen is Taiwan ramen!! You might wonder, “Taiwan ramen?” but it’s truly delicious. It’s loaded with garlic chives that make it even better. You can choose the spice level, but if you’re sensitive to heat, this ramen is still recommended. Set A comes with a small bowl of rice and three gyoza, while Set B includes mini fried rice and three gyoza. They also offer many Chinese dishes such as Tenshin‑han and mapo don. The yakiniku is, of course, excellent too. If you’re curious about the flavors or visiting Tsunocho, be sure to stop by. Hours 11:00–13:15 17:00–19:15 Closed Tuesdays (occasional irregular holidays) Parking About 10 spaces Phone 0983-25-1746 Instagram @seikouen_1980

#001 Hello! This is the Tsunocho Tourism Association. Tsunocho belongs to Koyu District in Miyazaki Prefecture and sits in the prefecture’s central region. To the east lies the Hyuga-nada Sea, and to the west stretch the ridges of MtOsuzuyama, one of Japan’s 200 famous mountains. Known as the “town of mountains, waterfalls, and fruit,” it’s rich not only in nature but also in agricultural, livestock, and marine products. On the Tsunocho Tourism Association account, we’ll share information to make you want to visit Tsunocho, so please follow along! For our first post, we’ll introduce what kind of town Tsunocho is, the key points we want to convey, and a bit about the Tsunocho Tourism Association. Access to Tsunocho By plane and by car Haneda to Miyazaki: about 1.5 hours; from Fukuoka: about 4 hours Itami to Miyazaki: about 1 hour; from Kumamoto: about 3 hours Fukuoka to Miyazaki: about 40 minutes; from Kagoshima: about 2.5 hours From Miyazaki Airport By JR Nippō Main Line to tsuno station: about 1 hour By car via the Higashi-Kyushu Expressway to Tsuno IC: about 1 hour 10 minutes What kind of town is Tsunocho? First, here’s an introduction to Tsunocho. Tsunocho has a total population of about 9,300 (April 2025) and is a town with very active agricultural and livestock production. The town is also working to revitalize the fishing industry through an onshore aquaculture initiative called the Fisheries Dream Future Project. Tsunocho preserves many historic sites, including the venerable Hyuga Province Ichinomiya Tsuno Shrine, listed in the Engishiki register of shrine names, and the Akagi Family Residence, a valuable house that served as lodging for feudal lords and government officials in the Edo period. Every year on August 1 and 2 the town holds its largest summer event, the Tsuno Shrine Summer Festival, when a golden mikoshi and four neighborhood taiko floats parade through town. Visitors come not only from within the town but also from other cities and prefectures. Town tree: ginkgo. Town flower: Osuzu winter orchid. Town bird: Japanese white-eye. A brief history of Tsunocho Next, a short look at Tsunocho’s history. The modern Tsunocho formed in 1889 (Meiji 22) when Tsuno Town and Kawakita Village merged to create Tsuno Village. Thirty-one years later, in 1920 (Taisho 9), Tsuno was established as a town, and in 2020 (Reiwa 2) it celebrated the 100th anniversary of its town status. The old village name Kawakita still appears today as a ward name. Tsunocho sightseeing spots Next are Tsunocho’s sightseeing spots. The town has many famous and lesser-known attractions. Here are two carefully selected highlights. 1. Hyuga Province Ichinomiya Tsuno Shrine Affectionately called Ichinomiya Shrine by locals and indispensable to telling the Miyazaki myths, Hyuga Province Ichinomiya Tsuno Shrine exudes a solemn atmosphere and feels powerful. Legend says that six years before Emperor Jimmu’s accession, he stopped in this area while moving eastward, prayed for national peace, safe seas, and lasting military fortune, and enshrined the deities here. The shrine’s principal deity, Ōkuninushi no Mikoto, is associated with blessings such as fertility, because he took many wives and fathered many children; recovery from illness, due to establishing medical practices and helping many people; and business prosperity, among other benefits. 2. Roadside Station Tsuno Opened in 2013 to help revitalize a town worn down by the 2010 foot-and-mouth disease outbreak, Roadside Station Tsuno showcases the agricultural town’s proud selection of fresh vegetables, fruits, and seafood. The station also sells original local products made from regional ingredients. The most popular item, the tomato twisted fry, draws repeat customers from both inside and outside the prefecture. Packed with Tsuno’s charms, Roadside Station Tsuno is well worth a visit. Tsunocho specialties and gourmet foods Next are Tsunocho’s specialty products and local cuisine. The town offers numerous specialty agricultural and livestock products. Here are three highlights. 1. Tomatoes Tsunocho offers an ideal environment for growing tomatoes. Tomatoes grown here benefit from the Osuzu Mountain Range’s water, the sea breeze from the Hyuga-nada Sea, and a mild climate, producing exceptional flavor. The town grows many varieties, including the much-sought-after Nigo 25 and the honey-sweet Furutika, so comparing varieties is a delight. 2. Grapes Tsunocho produces more than 30 grape varieties, including Shine Muscat, Sunny Rouge, and Kyoho. Recently, a variety called Suzuka, sometimes called the black muscat, has attracted attention for its refreshing muscat-like taste and aroma when you bite into it. 3. Tsuno Wine Speaking of grapes, Tsuno Wine is made from the grapes introduced above. Committed to using 100% grapes from Osuzu (around Tsunocho), these wines express the local terroir. A rosé made from the Campbell Early grape was selected for Wine Report’s “World’s Top 100 Wines” in 2004, and many other Tsuno wines have won domestic and international awards. Tsuno wines are so delicious they attract repeat visitors from abroad as well as within Japan. Tsunocho Tourism Association Finally, about our tourism association. We use social media to promote Tsunocho and handle everything from preparing to running local events. Recently, we have offered rentals for Osuzu Campground on MtOsuzuyama and electric bicycles. Through Cool Japan initiatives, we work to share Tsunocho’s charms and provide useful information to help visitors enjoy their stay. We appreciate your support!

"GET! Pokélid Stamp Rally in Saito, Koyu" Held in This is an announcement from the Saitokoyu Tourism Network. "GET! Pokélid Stamp Rally in Saito, Koyu" is currently being held in. Enjoy the Sightseeing spots and delicious gourmet food of Saito Koyu while touring the poke lid! If you collect all the Poké lid Stamps installed in the 7 cities and towns of Nishi City, Shintomi Town, Takanabe Towns, Kishiro Towns, Kawaminami Towns, Tsuno Towns, and Nishi Rice Village, and apply, you will be selected by lottery to win Nassy's original acrylic stand and an assortment of Specialty Products from each city and Town/Village! ■ Duration Saturday, December 14, 2024 ~ Sunday, March 2, 2025 ■ How to apply Please collect all the Stamps of Poké lids and product shops installed in Saito and Koyu Districts and post them in the application box attached to them. Winners will be replaced by shipping. * Mounts are distributed at the Stamp installation location. ■ Installation location Takanabe Towns (Pokélid: Mosquito Seaside Park, Stamp: VIVA CAGUCCI, Takanabe Hot Spring Meirin-no-yu) Shintomi Town (Pokélid: Sannashiro Plaza, Stamp: Shintomi Hot Spring Saint Lupine, Shintomi Town Agricultural and Livestock Products Direct Sales) Kishiro Towns (Pokélid: Kishiro Hot Spring Kan Yurara, Stamp: Kishiro Hot Spring Kan Yurara, Kishiro Towns Agricultural Products Sales Office Nabaya) Nishi Rice Village (Pokélid: Nishi Rice Hot Spring Yuta~, Stamp: Nishi Rice Hot Spring Yuta~, Village Products Museum) West City (Pokélid: Aisome Plaza, Stamp: Machinaka Gallery Yumetamago, JA Saito Ichaga Plaza) Kawaminami Towns (Pokélid: San A Kawaminami Culture Hall, Stamp: San A Kawaminami Culture Hall, Kawaminami PLATZ) Tono Towns (Pokéfuta: Roadside Station, Stamp: Roadside Station) ■ Inquiries Saitokoyu Tourism Network Secretariat (in the Commerce, Industry and Tourism Division, West City Office) TEL 0983-42-4068 #Saitokoyu Tourism Network #Pokélid Stamp Rally in Saito Koyu #Nassy Resort in Miyazaki #Nassy Resort #Nassy #Alora Nassi #Miyazaki Daisuki Pokemon #West City #Shintomi Town #Takanabe Towns #Kijo Towns #Kawaminami Towns #Tono Towns #Nishi Rice Village #Stamp Rally #Poké lid #Pokemon #Pokemon Local Acts #Campaigns #Miyazaki Prefecture