Meeting the sea, a special day spent at the Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival in Shonan, Japan 🎐 About an hour by train from Tokyo. In Hiratsuka, located in Kanagawa Prefecture's Shonan area, the entire town is adorned with vibrant Tanabata decorations every summer. The "Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival." Known as one of Japan's three major Tanabata festivals, it is a summer tradition. Giant Tanabata decorations fill the streets. People in yukata. The summer town transitioning from dusk to night. A nostalgic atmosphere flows, reminiscent of a scene from a movie. However, Hiratsuka's charm isn't just about the festival. Close by, there is a beautiful sea. A crystal-clear blue ocean that feels far removed from the Tokyo suburbs. Colorful fish. Soft corals gently swaying. In the morning, dive into the world of the sea. And from the evening, immerse yourself in a Japanese summer festival. This is the allure of the Shonan area, where you can spend such a special day. Diving is not just about entering the water. It’s about feeling the local atmosphere, walking through the town, meeting people, and experiencing the seasons of Japan. The time that follows the sea becomes an important memory of the journey. This year's "Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival" is scheduled to be held from July 3rd to 5th. Discover another side of Japan that you won't find just by sightseeing in Tokyo. Feel the Japanese summer that spreads beyond the sea. 🌈Hokule'a Shonan offers small-group diving tours in the ocean near Tokyo. Beginners and solo participants are welcome. English support is also available. We hope you enjoy not just the sea, but a special day spent in Japan. 【Related Keywords】 Diving near Tokyo / Kanagawa Diving / Shonan Diving / Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival / Tokyo Day Trip / Hidden Japan / Dive Near Tokyo / Japan Summer Festival / Japanese Ocean Experience / Tokyo Day Trip Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival Photo provided by the Hiratsuka City Tourism Association.

Event Announcement 📣 On Sunday, August 17, 2025, the “Shihoro 7,000-People Festival” will take place 😊 The festival is packed with attractions, including food stalls, the Shihoro Highlands Taiko drum performance, hot-air balloon trial rides, and stage events. On stage you can enjoy a variety of performances, from a baton routine by the Shihoro Baton Mates and dance shows to Shihoro Ondo and Gujo Odori folk dances, yosakoi dance performances, and a calligraphy performance 🎵🎵 Don’t miss the spectacular “flower mikoshi” made with Mino washi paper, a specialty of our sister city, Mino in Gifu Prefecture! 🤩🤩 There are plenty of hands-on activities too, such as a tractor display, rainbow trout fishing, calf petting, fire truck rides, ranger experiences, and water-spraying demonstrations. On August 20, there will also be a children’s bon odori and a costume bon odori for individuals and groups. 😍😍 Join the unique local festivals in each area and enjoy the summer 🤗🎶🎶 📌 Main Festival 📍 Date and Time: Sunday, August 17, 2025, 10:30–16:00 📍 Location: Around Shihoro Town Community Plaza *The festival will go ahead in light rain; in heavy rain it will be held at the Comprehensive Training Center* 📌 Costume Bon Odori 📍 Date and Time: Wednesday, August 20, 2025, 18:00–21:00 *In case of rain the event will be postponed to the backup date, August 21* 📍 Location: Nishi 2-sen, Shihoro Town https://www.shihoro.jp/tourism/detail.php?content=126...

Event Announcement📣 The Ashoro Furusato Bon Odori and Ryogoku Fireworks Festival is coming😊 About 8,000 fireworks will light up the night sky at Ashoro’s summer festival🎵 The program is packed with events like costumed Bon Odori, a comedy live show, a kayōkyoku (popular Japanese ballad) performance, and a magic show!! There will also be a beer garden and a children’s festival, making it a fun day for everyone. This year, starting at 10:00, Ashoro High School Brass Band and high school bands will present a music event called “Ashorock.”😍😍 Bring your family and friends and come make summer memories together🎶🎶 📍Date and Time: Friday, August 15, 10:00–21:00 (Fireworks launch time: scheduled 19:30–20:10) 📍Location: Riverbed south of Ryogoku Bridge over the Riberetsu River (fireworks launch site) Green space and parking in front of the Townspeople Center (vendor stalls and Bon Odori event site) https://www.town.ashoro.hokkaido.jp/kanko/event/event-2.html...

Event Announcement📣 The 29th Churui Furusato Bon Odori Festival will be held 😊 Along with the dancing, you can enjoy costumes filled with many creative ideas at this Bon dance event 🎶🎶 Luxurious prizes await the winners 🎁🎁🎁 On the day, children’s Bon Odori and the Churui Ondo are open to everyone, so why not take this chance to join in and dance? 🤗 Also, this year there will be a fish-catching event for elementary and junior high school students before the festival, so please join enthusiastically 🎵 📍Date and Time: Thursday, August 14, 2025, from 6:00 PM ※ The event will go ahead in light rain. It may be canceled in severe weather depending on conditions. 📍Venue: Churui Fureai Center, Fukujyu Special Event Area 📍Event Schedule 5:00 PM – Fish catching (for elementary and junior high school students) ※ Those wishing to participate should come to the main tent between 4:30 PM and 5:00 PM. 6:00 PM – Food and stall area opens Distribution of fun raffle tickets begins (one per person, first 1,000 people) 6:30 PM – Children’s Bon Odori (participation prizes available) 6:45 PM – Churui Ondo 7:00 PM – Solo dance performances (general participation) Costume contest (individual and group categories) 8:20 PM – Fun raffle Bread toss http://www.makubetsu.jp/kankobussankyokai/?p=8557...

Event Announcement 📣 The 78th Obihiro Plain Festival will be held from Thursday, August 14 to Friday, August 15, 2025 😊 The festival features a variety of events, including a drum festival, Bon Odori dances, a Tokachi Kouta singing contest, and street performances by buskers 🎶🎶 This year, marking the 80th anniversary since the end of the war, high school students will present a "Postwar 80th Anniversary Peace Concert." The concert blends poetry readings and other elements to express hopes for a peaceful, war-free world. 📍Yumefuri-ya Thursday, August 14, 7:00 PM–8:00 PM This festival aims to have young people give thanks for nature’s bounty and the achievements of their predecessors, pray for a bountiful harvest, foster love for their town and homeland, and inspire dreams and energy for tomorrow. Men’s and women’s portable shrines will parade through the streets, and performers will march while playing four-person taiko drums. The festival’s climax includes the offering of golden ears of grain and the throwing of dream breads. The soft glow of the mikoshi lights will color Obihiro’s night streets 😍😍 📍The 27th Obihiro Taiko Festival Friday, August 15, 3:20 PM–5:10 PM *Official start time is 3:20 PM* *In case of rain, the event will be held at Obihiro Civic Cultural Hall from 1:30 PM* Taiko teams from across Hokkaido will gather, filling the air with powerful drum sounds 😍😍 📍Obihiro Bon Odori Friday, August 15, 7:00 PM–8:45 PM *Canceled in case of rain* Dancers will perform to live music of "Hokkai Bon Uta." Watch for the creative costumes and choreography from each participating team 👘👘 Please check the flyer or the official website for other events. Make summer memories by visiting the Obihiro Plain Festival, one of Obihiro’s three major summer festivals 🤗 https://obikan.jp/page-7621/page-7623/...

Event Announcement📣 'Yukata Night' will be held at Tokachigawa Onsen Yunosato Hall on Sunday, August 10th😊 This is a renewed version of the annual Tokachigawa Onsen Summer Festival🎵🎵 The main events are the Log-Sawing Race and the Yukata Contest!! The winner will receive a 20,000-yen accommodation voucher for Tokachigawa Onsen!! We have other fabulous prizes prepared as well, and we look forward to everyone joining us🤗 📍Entry for the Log-Sawing Race is 500 yen (a bath salt gift is provided as a participation prize) ※Limited to the first 18 men and 18 women 📍The Yukata Contest is free to enter!! There are couple and married-pair categories👘 There will also be a children’s festival corner, food trucks, and vendors so you can fully enjoy the summer festival😍😍 Wear a yukata to the festival and make the most of the summer celebration🎶🎶 Let's go to Tokachigawa Onsen Yunosato Hall!! https://www.tokachigawa.net/news/detail/230...

The Kanaoka Town Bon Dance Festival, the largest event of the Kanaoka Town Residents’ Association, takes place on August 14th and 15th 📣 Each of the 11 neighborhood associations carries a uniquely decorated large drum as they parade, and they make a bold procession into Kanaoka Shrine, which sits at the heart of Kanaoka Town 👀 On the 15th, the neighborhood on duty that year performs the final shrine entry as the climactic “tori.” After the shrine entries on both days, all 11 neighborhood drums gather around the yagura inside Kanaoka Shrine. At the signal of the Kanaoka Town song leaders, the drums all sound together and the bon dance begins ✨ People of all ages enjoy dancing late into the night while the powerful beat of the large drums reverberates across Kanaoka Town during the festival ♪ 🏮Kanaoka Town Bon Dance Festival🥁 Location: Kanaoka Shrine Dates: Thursday, August 14th and Friday, August 15th Inquiries: Kanaoka Shrine (📞072-258-2127)

On July 19, 2025, the 20th Iwata Summer Festival on Jubiroad was held. Jubiroad shopping street at the North Exit of JR Iwata Station became a pedestrian zone, with food stalls and kitchen cars lining the street, and a wealth of activities from a stamp rally to stage events that delighted children and adults alike. The Iwata City tourism ambassador interacted with citizens at the reception and lottery area, gaining valuable experience. The festival bustled with large crowds, and the town brimmed with energy.

The large taiko drums of Osaka Shinden (Sekichaya, Onoshiba, Shimo-Kusao three districts) will parade through each neighborhood and begin entering the shrine one after another from around 6:00 p.m.✨ Watch as nearly one-ton taiko drums are carried through town; the thunderous sound and the sight of them being hoisted are not to be missed! In the morning, children’s taiko will also enter the shrine.☺ 🏮Osaka Shinden Bon Odori🥁 Venue: Izumo Taisha Osaka Branch Shrine Date: Saturday, August 9 (canceled in severe weather) Contact: Izumo Taisha Osaka Branch Shrine Office (📞072-285-2431)

Event Notice📣 On Saturday, August 2, the Otofuke Town Chamber of Commerce Summer Festival Cooling Fireworks Display will take place 😊 A beer garden and festival stalls line the grounds, with performances including Otofuke Town Komadaiko drumming, Studio ZERO dance, Otofuke Dream Rhythmic Gymnastics Club, Kenji Nanda impersonation show, and a karaoke contest, creating a varied stage program!! Because the terrain is flat, you can see the fireworks up close for an impressive experience!! About 1,000 fireworks will light up the town’s night sky😍😍 Date and Time: Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 3:00 PM ※In case of severe weather, the event will be postponed to August 3 Location: Special venue in front of Shintsu Community Hall Enjoy beer and the stage shows as we cheerfully get through summer together🎵🎵🎵 http://www.otofuke.jp/news/news-4242.html...

【Event】Don to Koi Festival in Higashikawa-cho on August 2 and 3 📣 Don to Koi Festival in Higashikawa-cho — Now Happening! The Don to Koi Festival, a summer tradition in Higashikawa-cho, returns this year! The event is packed with activities the whole family can enjoy. We look forward to welcoming you! 🗓 Schedule Saturday, August 2 — 11:00 to 21:00 Sunday, August 3 — 9:30 to 15:00 📌 Venue Special event site for the Higashikawa-cho Don to Koi Festival (Photo Street pedestrian zone / Hagoromo Park) ⭐ Main attractions (excerpt) 🤣 Mid‑summer Comedy and Impression Show — Saturday, August 2 at 13:30 🎤 Guest Live Performance — Saturday, August 2 at 19:00 🎆 Fireworks Display — Saturday, August 2 at 20:30 Also, outstanding performances on the Hagoromo outdoor stage Don to Koi food stalls from the pedestrian zone to Hagoromo Park a mochi‑tossing event on the Hagoromo outdoor stage and more Lots of fun activities await! 📞 Organizer: Higashikawa Don to Koi Festival Executive Committee (inside the Higashikawa-cho Chamber of Commerce office) TEL: 0166-82-2750

This is a festival with a history of over 100 years in which young people carry taikodai (drum floats) through the neighborhood while singing and dancing Kawachi ondo and Goshu ondo.✨ Drums over three shaku (about 90 cm) are placed on carrying poles and carried by groups of about 20 to 30 people as they parade. A distinctive feature of the procession is that people sometimes ride on the drums during the march.👀 🥁 Fukumachi Summer Bon Dance 🥁 Location: Atago Park Date: Saturday, August 2 Schedule: ・5:00 PM–around 5:40 PM: Procession into Atago Shrine ・Neighborhood parade ・8:00 PM–8:30 PM: Drum hanging performance ・10:00 PM: Bon dance ends

The 17th Gashi Fest Sakaihigashi Summer Festival 💡Come enjoy a summer festival in Sakaihigashi🎐 The annual summer tradition, "Gashi Fest Sakaihigashi Summer Festival," returns this year♪ A variety of events will unfold at Mina Sakai. Wearing a yukata is warmly welcomed! Come make summer memories with us✨ 📅Date: Saturday, August 2, 2025 🕔Event Schedule ・Food stalls: 11:30–21:00 ・Prestige: 12:00–17:30 ・Bon Odori Dance: 18:00–21:00 📍Venue: Mina Sakai (In front of Sakai City Hall, Citizen Exchange Plaza) ※Please use public transportation to visit. 🔎For details, search for "Gashi Fest"!!

I participated in the summer festival where I moved. I'm a newcomer, but I was able to be included in the circle and felt the warmth of the community! There is no other hand-held fireworks that can be seen so close! !! It's a great summer!!

Hagi Summer Festival The Hagi Sea of Japan Grand Fireworks Festival (August 1), where colorful fireworks color the night sky, the Hagi Aoharu Festival (August 2), and the traditional events [Mifune Song, Sumiyoshi Mikoshi, Sumiyoshi Onna Mikoshi, Dance Car] will be Held in procession in the city (August 3). ■Hagi Sea of Japan Grand Fireworks Festival In a beautiful location overlooking the Sea of Japan, about 7,000 colorful fireworks (planned) will color the night sky. The fireworks seen from the Coastline with no obstacles around are very impressive! ・Date and time August 1 (Fri) 20:00~ *In case of stormy weather, it will be postponed to Saturday, August 2. ・Location Around Hagi Shoko and Kikugahama Beach (Hamasaki, Hagi City) ■ Hagi Aoharu Festival There is also a Stalls of Events booths for children, such as ring tossing and shooting, and delicious Gourmet such as Kitchen Car and stalls. There is also a beer garden and stage events. ・Date and time August 2 (Sat) 18:00~21:00 ・Location Part of Tamachi Shopping Street and Yoshidacho Street □ Sumiyoshi Mikoshi, Daytime Club 8:00~ Departure from Sumiyoshi Shrine ■ Traditional events It is a traditional event and is designated as an Intangible folk cultural property of Yamaguchi Prefecture, "Ofunyo", Sumiyoshi Mikoshi, and dance cars will procession through the city. ・Date and time August 3 (Sun) ・Location Various places in the city (Hamasaki ~ Higashida Town, etc.) □ Boat Song 11:00~ Departure from Hamasaki Town □ Sumiyoshi Mikoshi Night Club 15:00~ Departure from Sumiyoshi Shrine Sumiyoshi Mikoshi / Daytime Club departs from Sumiyoshi Shrine on August 2 (Sat) 8:00~ □ Sumiyoshi Onna Mikoshi 16:00~ Departure from Sumiyoshi Shrine □ dance Car 16:00~ Departure from Hamasaki Town ■Yoshida Town Festival Stage Events, beer garden, food and beverage corner Stalls, and tug-of-war competitions will be Held in. ・Date and time August 3 (Sun) 18:00~22:00 ・Location Part of Tamachi Shopping Street and Yoshidacho Street Contact Hagi Summer Festival Executive Committee (Hagi Chamber of Commerce and Industry) Phone 0838-25-3333 For details, please see the Hagi Summer Festival flyer and website!

Event Announcement 📣 On Saturday, July 26, Tokachi–Shimizu Town will host the Seiryu Festival 😊 This beloved event returns for its 47th year!! The stage program is packed with YOSAKOI dance, jazz dance, and performances by Shimizu and Mikage Middle School brass bands, among others!! A bingo tournament and a fun prize drawing could award luxurious prizes!? You can also ride in and see working vehicles such as aerial work platforms and patrol cars on display!! The Chamber of Commerce Women’s and Youth Divisions, the Shimizu High School Sanroku Club, and local restaurants will host booths so you can enjoy regional gourmet treats 🎵 📌Date and Time: Saturday, July 26, 2025, 12:00–20:30 📌Venue: Event plaza next to JR Tokachi-Shimizu Station *In case of severe weather, the event will be postponed to the following day 📌How to participate in the prize drawing Only those who purchase the advance “Lucky Coupon with Lottery Ticket” usable at the Chamber of Commerce Youth Division booth are eligible. 📌Inquiries Seiryu Festival Executive Committee (Shimizu Town Chamber of Commerce) TEL: 0156-62-2208 It’s been hot lately, so please take care of your health and enjoy the summer festival 🤗 https://www.town.shimizu.hokkaido.jp/section/08/details/47.html...

This weekend is finally approaching, "Iyo Color Festival"! !️ !️ Held in in Iyo City, Ehime Prefecture, it is the largest summer Festival in Iyo City. The executive committee is currently making preparations 🏃💦 so that everyone can fully enjoy the enthusiasm of the dancers at the Iyo Odori Parade and the power of the fireworks that go off up close at the fireworks festival We will post a program leaflet covering the contents of the two-day "Iyo Color Festival", so please take a 👀 look In addition to parades and fireworks festival, there are many other Events, so please enjoy the hot summer in Iyo City! !️ This year's fireworks festival is a collaboration with the Anime "People Who Want to Eat Me," which will begin airing in October. Somewhere in the announcement stream the venue, the narration of the main characters may stream! Original fans are also distributed and goods are sold! !️ In addition, we will traffic restriction to ensure the smooth and safe Held in of the Iyo Color Festival. If you are planning to visit, please check the traffic restriction map for details. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation 🙇🙇🙇 In addition, there is expected to be a lot of traffic jams on the day. Use public transportation to 🚎 reach the venue

Commemorating the 70th anniversary of Reihoku Town’s municipal status, the 37th Reihoku Jatto Festival took place 🎊 Last weekend, the Reihoku Jatto Festival and the Dragon Boat (Peiron) Races were held successfully, drawing many visitors to Reihoku Town ✨ Spectacular fireworks launched right overhead 🎆, fiercely competitive Peiron races and hands-on Peiron experiences 🌊 energized the crowd, and the two days flew by in no time‼️ (By the way, this post’s author joined the festival for the first time this year, participating as both festival staff and a Peiron paddler. I was truly amazed by the close-up drama of the fireworks and the exhilarating rush of paddling a Peiron boat 👀) If you couldn’t make it this year, please come to the Reihoku Jatto Festival next year 🔥

Event Notice📣 On Monday, July 21, the "Mikage Festival" will take place 😊 Also known as the Beer Festival!! Enjoy handmade flavors from local shops, sirloin-cut steaks, and grilled Wagyu ribeye together with beer 🎵 The program includes Flahibiscus Mikage, Cheer Angel Baton Twirlers, and a bingo tournament!! The festival ends with a grand fireworks display that will color the summer night sky!! Relax and enjoy summer with a beer🍺 📌Date and Time: July 21, 2025, from 15:00 (will proceed even in rain) 📌Venue: Mikage Community Center 📌Parking: Mikage Improvement Center 📌Fireworks start at 20:00 [Requests] 📍Seating at the venue is limited. Please bring your own tables and chairs. 📍If you use the lawn, please bring a ground sheet. 📍There is no garbage station. Please take your trash home with you. 📍Please refrain from parking on the street as it will inconvenience nearby residents. https://www.shimizu-hokkaido-ta.jp/cont8/49.html...

Event Announcement📣 How are your plans for this weekend? Makubetsu Summer Festa 2025 will take place on Sunday, July 20th🎵 Alongside dance, light rock music, and taiko drumming, there will be games for children and food stalls serving delicious local treats from Makubetsu😁 A grand lottery offers luxurious prizes, including paired travel vouchers!! The festival’s climax will be about 3,000 fireworks that will fill the night sky with brilliant gold😍 Come enjoy the summer festival with friends and family🤗 📌Date and time: Sunday, July 20th, 2025, 1:00 PM–9:00 PM 📌Location: Makubetsu Town Sports Park, special event area 📌Notes * Bringing pets is prohibited. * The entire sports park is smoke-free (including electronic cigarettes). * Grilling and BBQ inside the sports park are prohibited. http://www.makubetsu.jp/kankobussankyokai/?p=8545...

Good evening, everyone! This is the Minami Town Tourism Association! Yesterday, we Implementation the opening Events of Tainohama Beach Station in Tainohama Beach Beaches and reported on it. But that wasn't all Minami Town did yesterday and today! !! While the hot sun was shining brightly, the Lively atmosphere was boiling in Minami Town Hiwasa! !! Yesterday (July 12th), the 62nd Hiwasa Umigame Festival was held in! Centered on the Ohama Coast, where sea turtles land and lay eggs, this historic summer festival prays for gratitude to sea turtles and the sea. In addition to the Shinto ritual at Ohama Coast, baby sea turtles were released and prayed for their return to Ohama Coast. In addition, Many stalls were lined up on Sakuramachi Street, which is the street in front of the Temple of Yakuo Temple, and performances sponsored by local people were also shown on two stages. On the main stage, the venue was very crowded with Kameta and "Tokushima Prefecture resident entertainer" Mitoshi and the two-person MC system performing the Sentai Hero Show and Awa Odori. The Noryo Fireworks Display was held on the riverbed of the Hiwasa River to conclude the festival. A total of 1,500 fireworks were launched on the largest scale in the southern region of Tokushima Prefecture, and they scorched the summer night sky brightly and flashily! The excitement of the Hiwasa Umigame Festival has not cooled down, and today (July 13th), the 26th Hiwasa Umigame Triathlon was Held in! A 1.5km swim departing from Ohama Coast, a 40km bike ride on the Minamiawa Sunline and back, and a 10km run along the Hiwasa River. As the name suggests, about 350 participants took on the challenge of three very grueling competitions. With the sincere support of the Town residents and those who visited to watch the race, many people completed the race brilliantly! Summer is finally in full swing in Minami Town. The hot days continue, but let's all spend this summer energetically with the "heat" in our hearts that is as hot as the heat!

Sakai Great Fish Night Market is heating up again this year!🏮 The Sakai Tourism Concierge will take part in the Sakai Great Fish Night Market again this year! 🐟With fish auctions and 🎵stage performances, we want to liven things up together with everyone! Please come to the Sakai Great Fish Night Market! We sincerely look forward to seeing you at the venue✨

The first of the Shikoku region summer Festival, the Uwajima Cow Demon Festival! This year, for three days from July 22nd to 24th, we will liven up the summer in Shikoku in a grand manner! July 22: Marine Fireworks Festival July 23 Uwajima Bullfighting Regular Tournament Gaiya Carnival Warei Grand Festival Yoimiya Festival July 24 Cow Demon Parade Warei Grand Festival Running in Other, brass band, children's cow demon, Uwajima odori, etc. This year marks the Sister City Anniversary, and the Sendai Sparrow Dance will also come to liven up the Festival. Come and visit us!

Annual event, the Held in of "Iyo Color Festival" Festival the hot summer of Iyo Citizens has been decided! This year, it will be held for two days, Saturday, July 26th and Sunday, July 27th! On the first day, Saturday, there is the "Little Fish Catching Contest" unique to the seaside city of Iyo City, and the "Iyo Odori Parade" Parade through the city. On the second day, Sunday, various Events are packed at Iyo Port Wharf and shopping streets, and in the evening, the climax is a 🎆 grand fireworks festival of about 8,000 fireworks launched from Iyo Port Seeing the very impressive fireworks up close is sure to be an unforgettable summer memory. Events content is subject to change, so please check the "Iyo Color Festival Executive Committee" Facebook page for Latest Information. This year's Iyo Color Festival is a collaboration with "I want to eat me, Hitodenashi", which depicts the beautiful stage of Ehime Prefecture centered on Iyo City! The popular comic serialized in Dengeki Maou, the story of a girl and yokai confronting "family," "friendship," and "life," will be broadcast as a TV Anime in October. We do not accept inquiries on Instagram, so please contact us directly by Phone. 📍 📍 Iyo Color Festival Venue: Iyo Port Wharf, around Nadacho Shopping Street, Iyo City Inquiries: 089-994-5852 (Iyo Color Festival Executive Committee: Iyo City Tourism and Products Association Soleyo)

📣 Held again this year! Announcement for the Sakai Great Fish Night Market and Fireworks 🎇 What is the Sakai Great Fish Night Market (Sakai Oo-uo Yoichi)? It is a fish market festival held every late July at Ōhama Park in Sakai, Sakai Ward, Osaka Prefecture ✨ Said to have begun in the Kamakura period, it boasts about 700 years of history and has become a summer tradition in Sakai 🎐 🐡The highlight is the spectacular nighttime fish auction! There are also food stalls and corporate PR booths on display, making it a historic festival closely tied to the local community♪ This year’s event is on Saturday, July 26! Continuing from last year, there will also be fireworks launched from the sea 🎇 Enjoy the beautiful fireworks lighting up the shore! Don’t miss this summer’s annual event—everyone is welcome! We look forward to seeing you! 🎉 “Sakai Great Fish Night Market” 🗓️Date: Saturday, July 26 📍Venue: Ōhama Park ⏰Time: 11:00–21:30 “Senshu Yume Fireworks: Shakunetsu no Hanabi 7 I Love Sakai” 🗓️Date: Saturday, July 26 📍Venue: Sakai Old Port ⏰Gates open: 16:30 / Start: 20:20 / End: 20:50 (scheduled) 🔎For details, please see the official Sakai Tourism Guide website

#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.

The 58th Oketo Summer Festival and the 48th Human Banba Competition will take place on Sunday, June 29th! The “Human Banba” competition, now synonymous with Oketo Town, draws many teams from across Hokkaido, with about 50 teams taking part in this popular event. Last year it was a huge success, with teams filling the entry slots! As you may know, the “Human Banba” reflects Oketo’s history of prosperity built on the timber industry, and for many years it has been held as a town-run festival that brings the community together. The festival also features food stalls, festival games, the Oketo Kouta dance, guest stage shows, and a fireworks display—there’s plenty to enjoy! For more details, please see the poster or Oketo Town’s website! https://www.town.oketo.hokkaido.jp/shokai/kanko/natsumatsuri/...

HELLO COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! This is the Furusato Nagawa Tourism and Exchange Department. Located in the western Mountainous Area of Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, Matsumoto City, Nagawa District is a quiet area surrounded by mountains rich in Rich in nature. Among the Matsumoto City, which is widely known as the gateway to the Shinshu, the rich Nature environment remains, and the beautiful scenery that changes with the four seasons Fascination many people. Known for its clear air and clear streams, including mountain sightseeing and Mountain stream fishing, it is an area where you can refresh your mind and body! 【Access to Matsumoto City, Nagawa District】 ■Access from Tokyo Via the Chuo Expressway and Nagano Expressway, get off at the Matsumoto Interchange, and take National Route 158 toward the Nagawa District. ■Access from Nagoya Use the Chuo Expressway, get off at the Ina Interchange, go through the Gonbei Tunnel, and head from National Route 19 via Yabuhara to the Nagawa District. 【What is Matsumoto City, Nagawa District?】 The Matsumoto City as a whole has a population of about 240,000 people, but the Nagawa District has a population of 565 and 289 households (as of December 2023 (Reiwa 5)), and traditional life and culture are alive and well in a rich Nature environment. Due to the high elevation, it is cool in summer, and in winter a silver world Unfolds. It is popular as a summer resort in the summer and as a Spot to enjoy the dignified air in the winter, and it shows an attractive look to the Four Seasons. 【Introduction to the historical background of the Nagawa area of Matsumoto City, Nagawa】 The Nagawa district of Matsumoto City, Nagawa City originally built a history as an independent village, but was incorporated into Matsumoto City due to the great merger of Heisei. Since ancient times, it has flourished as a mountain worship road and trade route, and there was a lot of traffic between people going back and forth between the Mountainous Area. Forestry, agriculture, and Soba cultivation that make use of abundant Forest resources and clear streams have been actively carried out, supporting the food culture and living infrastructure of the region. Even today, through festival rituals, the wisdom and customs of our ancestors are passed down. 【Popular Sightseeing spots in the Nagawa area, Matsumoto City】 The Nagawa area of Matsumoto City, Nagawa City has many Tourist resources rich in Rich in nature. ■Nagawa Watari Dam It is a large Dam that rises along National Route 158 and features a spectacular landscape created by the Clear streams stream from upstream and the lush green mountains that surround it. From the observation space, you can overlook the contrast between the Reservoir and the mountains, and you can enjoy various atmospheres that vary depending on the season. ■Shibusawa Hot spring It is a quiet Hot spring inn scattered in the mountains, and it is a great Spot to heal the fatigue of your trip. Depending on the inn, you can take a day-use hot spring, and you can stop by in between mountain sightseeing. Please enjoy the silence and warmth of the hot water and spend a moment to forget your daily life. ■Mountain stream fishing spot There are plenty of areas where you can enjoy mountain stream fishing such as char and Yamame. The fishing experience while enjoying a sense of unity with nature allows you to enjoy a relaxing time that is different from the city. 【Introduction of Specialty products and Gourmet foods in the Nagawa area of Matsumoto City】 ■Tōji Soba Local cuisine is served with hot Soba noodles in a hot pot and served with wild vegetables and mushrooms. It is an indispensable Nagawa specialty when talking about the Nagawa District. ■ Wild vegetable tempura Wild vegetables that herald the arrival of Spring are freshly picked and fried in batter, and the tempura has an exquisite bittersweetness and aroma. ■ Grilled river fish with salt Fresh char and Yamame caught in the Mountain stream are simply grilled with only salt, so you can fully enjoy the taste of the ingredients. ■Nagawa Soba Nagawa Soba made with flavorful Soba flour is highly appreciated by Soba lovers, and its Aroma and Smooth Texture are Exquisite. ■Processed Wild Vegetables Processed wild vegetables, which are also useful as preserved foods such as Pickles and Pickled in salt, are perfect as Souvenirs. 【Events and Festivals in the Nagawa area of Matsumoto City】 ■ Soba Festival The Soba Festival, which is held five times a year, is a festival where you can fully enjoy the food culture of the Nagawa District. You can taste Local Handmade Soba using Soba noodles carefully grown in Nagawa Late May: Fresh greenery Soba Festival Mid-August: New Soba Festival in summer October: New Soba Festival in autumn November: Nagawa Native Soba Festival February: Tōji Soba Festival Enjoy the nature of Nagawa, which changes with the Four Seasons, and the taste of each season. ■ Nagawa Summer Festival (late July) The biggest attraction of the Nagawa Summer Festival, which colors the summer in Nagawa, is the fireworks that echo in the valley. The fireworks launched from the bottom of the valley Unfolds large and Powerful in front of you. Please experience the sound of fireworks echoing in the mountains and the beautiful light competition up close. ■ Nomugi Pass Ski Resort Mt. Ontake, Mt. Norikura, and the Hotaka mountain ranges seen from an elevation of 2,130m are spectacular! With a maximum skiing distance of 4,000m, a variety of courses can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced skiers. There are few crowds, and you can enjoy gliding in quiet nature. It is a ski resort where you can enjoy the Nature of Nagawa and the dynamic scenery. 【Tourist Information of Nagawa District, Matsumoto City】 The Nagawa district of Matsumoto City, Nagawa City has a variety of attractions such as rich nature, delicious Soba dishes, and traditional culture rooted in the Local area. Surrounded by majestic mountains and serene scenery, you can relax to your heart's content is the real pleasure of the Nagawa District. Please make memories of your trip in Nagawa, Matsumoto City, Nagawa, where you can enjoy the expressions of the Four Seasons. We look forward to seeing you there.

#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!

Koshigoshi Kodo Shrine Tenno Festival From the first Sunday to the second Sunday of July, the Tenno Festival of Koshigoshi Kodo Shrine is held in. Parade Mikoshi and stalls along the Train Street in Koshigoe, and passing by Enoden is thrilling. On the last day of the Festival, after the mikoshi Ocean from the Koshigoshi side and the Enoshima side, a gyoai festival is held to meet at Ryukouji Temple.