We have openings on Wednesday, October 7th! Would you like to take a stroll through the autumn foothills of Mt. Ishizuchi with a nature guide? We will travel by chartered bus to an elevation of about 1,700 meters and enjoy a walk while observing autumn alpine plants. Along the way, you can also see changes in vegetation due to the elevation difference and enjoy the scenery of the foothills. This is not a summit tour, so feel free to join us. "Bingamori Flower Watching Tour - Autumn" 〇Travel Cost 8,900 yen per person (including tax), guide, chartered bus, and lunch 〇Dates October 7th (Wednesday), 8th (Thursday), and 21st (Wednesday) of 2026 *Fully booked on the 21st (Wednesday) 〇Time 8:35 (Gathering) to 15:30 〇Meeting Place Saijo City Tourism Exchange Center 〇Number of Participants 20 people per session (minimum of 15 participants required) 〇Deadline 10 days before each tour date 〇Contact and Reservations Saijo City Tourism and Products Association Registered Travel Agency No. 3-201 by the Ehime Prefectural Governor TEL: 0897-56-2605 For more details, please check the website of the Saijo City Tourism and Products Association.

During my visit to the 18th temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, Onzan-ji Temple, I encountered a large ginkgo tree that painted the grounds in golden hues. With every gust of wind, the colorful leaves gently danced down, creating a yellow carpet at my feet. This moment in late autumn, encountered along the Shikoku pilgrimage, remains etched in my heart. Location: Onzan-ji Temple, Komatsushima City, Tokushima Prefecture Date of photography: December 19, 2024

The Saijo Festival Calendar for the 8th year of Reiwa (October 2023 to September 2024) is currently on sale. Price: 1,500 yen (tax included) per copy Sales location: Saijo City Tourism Exchange Center

Would you like to take a stroll with a nature guide in the autumn foothills of Ishizuchi Mountain? We will travel by chartered bus to an elevation of about 1,700 meters and enjoy a walk while observing autumn alpine plants. Along the way, you can also see changes in vegetation due to the elevation difference and enjoy the scenery of the foothills. This is not a summit tour, so please feel free to join us. "Kamegamori Flower Watching Tour - Autumn" 〇Travel Cost 8,900 yen per person (tax included), including guide, chartered bus, and lunch 〇Dates October 7th (Wed), 8th (Thu), and 21st (Wed) in the year 26 〇Time 8:35 AM (Gathering) – 3:30 PM 〇Meeting Place Saijo City Tourism Exchange Center 〇Number of Participants 20 people per session (minimum required number is 15) 〇Deadline 10 days before each tour date 〇Contact and Reservations Saijo City Tourism and Products Association Registered Travel Agency No. 3-201 by the Governor of Ehime Prefecture TEL: 0897-56-2605 For more details, please check the website of the Saijo City Tourism and Products Association.

Located in Sanuki City, Kagawa Prefecture, the "Sanuki Winery" is set in the Oogushi Nature Park area on a hillside, offering views of the Seto Inland Sea and its islands. This place not only produces wine but also serves as a tourist spot to learn about the local grape industry and wine culture of Sanuki. The winery uses grapes and fruits grown in Kagawa Prefecture to make its wines, including the wine grape "Koda Noh R-1" developed by Kagawa University’s Faculty of Agriculture, showcasing a close relationship with local agriculture. In recent years, they have also introduced wines such as "Sanuki Red, Sanuki White, and Sanuki Rose," offering a range from red and white wines to rosé. In addition to wine, grape juice is also a highly recommended product. For those who do not drink alcohol, tasting the sweet flavor of the grapes themselves is a great option to bring home as a souvenir. At the Sanuki Winery, visitors can tour the actual wine production facility. From grape processing and fermentation to bottling, one can gain a close-up understanding of the wine-making process. After the tour, visitors can explore the Bussan Center, where they can purchase wine and grape juice, as well as various local Sanuki products. Current information indicates that the winery's visiting hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Tuesdays (open on national holidays). Additionally, the winery offers a "wine soft serve ice cream" that is perfect for hot seasons. The ice cream is made with grape juice as a base and includes a small amount of Sanuki wine, with an alcohol content of less than 0.01%, allowing even non-drinkers to enjoy a grape-flavored dessert with a hint of wine. The rich grape aroma combined with the cool, smooth texture makes it a delightful snack after visiting the winery. There is also an interesting story connecting Sanuki wine with local industry. In the past, a very niche product called "Sanuki Wine Beef" was introduced, where the grape pomace generated during the wine-making process was mixed into the feed for crossbred cattle. This type of beef is characterized by a higher ratio of red meat, lower fat, and tender texture, and was promoted as a specialty product of Sanuki City. In other words, the leftover grape pomace from wine production was not wasted but returned to the local industry in another form. From wine and grape juice to grape soft serve ice cream, and even the once-offered Sanuki Wine Beef, one can see how a local winery connects with agriculture, livestock, and tourism. Visiting here is not just about buying a bottle of wine, but also about experiencing the local flavor of Sanuki through factory tours, tasting grape products, and enjoying the scenery of the Seto Inland Sea.

On August 26th, 2019, we held the Mt. Kamegamori Flower Watching Tour. We comfortably traveled by chartered bus up to an elevation of 1,700 meters. Participants enjoyed the changes in vegetation, stunning views, and plant explanations by professional guides. In summer, the number of flowers is at its peak, providing a refreshing experience. Next, as follows, we will hold tours in October. On October 7th (Wednesday), 8th (Thursday), and 21st (Wednesday). We are currently accepting applications to enjoy the autumn mountain atmosphere. We hope you will join us! For inquiries and reservations: 0897-56-2605

Saijo City Summer Fireworks Festival Sponsor Names Thanks to your support and cooperation, we were able to successfully hold this fireworks festival. We sincerely appreciate everyone who sponsored this event. Your warm support has been a great strength in making the fireworks festival possible. It has also been featured on the Saijo City Tourism and Product Association's website. Thank you very much.

The Saijo City Summer Fireworks Festival will be held as scheduled today. For details such as traffic regulation maps, please check the Saijo City Tourism and Product Association's website. We sincerely look forward to your attendance. Please note that the content may change or be canceled due to weather conditions. In such cases, we will provide further information. We ask all attendees to be cautious of surrounding congestion and traffic regulations, and to enjoy the event safely. "Saijo City Summer Fireworks Festival" 〇August 17, 2026 (Monday) from 20:00 for approximately 40 minutes 〇Location: Kitagawa (Kamo River Bank Middle Embankment) 【Headquarters: Teishō-ji Temple (Kannondo) 47 Kitagawa, Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture, 793-0042】

The sales of the 2023 edition Saijo Festival posters have begun. Price: 400 yen (including tax) per piece Sales location: Saijo City Tourism Exchange Center

Visiting Kotohira Town to worship at Kotohiragu Shrine, it is essential to not only challenge the classic 785 stone steps but also to arrange a leisurely afternoon tea break along the way. About halfway up, around the 500th step, you will find Kamitsubaki Cafe, hidden within the dense forest. This place is a refined space produced by Shiseido Parlour. As you step inside, large floor-to-ceiling windows offer a breathtaking view of the lush mountain scenery. Sitting by the window, you can enjoy the vibrant greenery while listening to the gentle breeze and birdsong, instantly escaping the daily hustle and bustle. The seasonal dessert sundae in the cafe is a colorful and visually stunning creation that is hard to resist. The perfect blend of sweet and sour fruits with rich cream instantly soothes tired legs. Additionally, you can enjoy Shiseido's famous "Beauty Princess" peach rose jelly drink here. The pink bottle is quite eye-catching, filled with plenty of Nagano Prefecture peach puree and chunks. Each sip brings a rich peach aroma and elegant rose fragrance, infused with collagen and hyaluronic acid, making it both refreshing and nourishing—a dream product for girls. Kamitsubaki is not just a perfect resting spot during your pilgrimage, but also a healing space embraced by nature.

The "Ehime Saijo Fair" will be held at the Ehime Prefectural Office in Osaka! From July 29 (Wednesday) to 31 (Friday), the "Ehime Saijo Fair" will take place at the Ehime Prefectural Office in Osaka. We will offer seasonal silk eggplants from Saijo, delicious chilled Anpo persimmons from Shusaku, local sake, rich carrot juice made from Saijo carrots, and other processed products from Saijo. We will promote the attractions of Saijo City to encourage many visitors to come. Residents in the Kinki region, please stop by! 【Ehime Saijo City Fair】 ・Event Period From July 29 (Wednesday) to 31 (Friday), Reiwa 8 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM *On the final day, July 31 (Friday), until 5:00 PM ・Location: Ehime Prefectural Office in Osaka 1-9-1 Edobori, Nishi Ward, Osaka City, 1st Floor, Higobashi Center Building ・Content Sales of local products from Saijo City and tourism promotion Image 1: Saijo Fair flyer Images 2 and 3: Last year's event.

Cape Tang Waterfall With a height of 114 meters and seven tiers, it is known as "the Women's Waterfall" due to its elegance. Located near the border with Ufu District, it cascades in the valley of Warishi Pass, offering beautiful views amidst the autumn foliage. It takes about 20 minutes (500 meters) to walk from the parking lot. The mountain path is not easy to navigate, so caution is necessary as you descend the slope. In the parking area, there is a monument inscribed with a haiku by Natsume Sōseki.

Shiraito Falls A three-tiered waterfall with a height of 30 meters. In summer, the stream's water and breeze are refreshing, while the autumn foliage is vibrant. In winter, it freezes, showcasing a majestic beauty, allowing visitors to enjoy the changing seasons. It is 370 meters from the parking lot to the waterfall. As you cross a small bridge, you can enjoy a nature-filled hiking course abundant in negative ions.

Visiting Ichinomiya-ji in Kagawa Prefecture during the summer, aside from the usual pilgrimage, what I look forward to the most is the traditional summer event, the "Cucumber Blessing." As I step into the quaint temple, the first thing that catches my eye is the neatly arranged boxes of vibrant green cucumbers. Each cucumber is tied with a wish paper bearing the names and ailments of the devotees, creating a scene that is both novel and filled with a sense of sacred ritual. People firmly believe that through the master's spiritual power, they can temporarily entrust their internal pains and misfortunes to the cucumbers. Standing in front of the master's hall, I watch the devotees earnestly writing their wishes, with the rising incense and the deep, resonant chanting filling the air, even the summer cicadas seem to quiet down in this moment. The serene energy makes one naturally calm, and I silently pray for health and peace for myself and my family with my hands together. After the ceremony, these cucumbers, which carry the ailments of many, will remain at the temple, where they will be collectively buried in the Cucumber Mound. As the cucumbers naturally decay in the soil, the tormenting pains and misfortunes will also fade away into the earth. This seemingly simple tradition is wrapped in the most sincere and profound hopes of people for their health. For me, the Cucumber Blessing at Ichinomiya-ji is not just a special travel experience; it is a summer memory intertwined with the warm humanity and ancient beliefs of Shikoku.

"Mt. Kamegamori Flower Watching Tour" Now Accepting Participants Explore the summer trails of Mt. Kamegamori with a natural guide and observe various plants. Travel safely and comfortably by chartered bus on mountain roads. Visit around 1,700 meters above sea level and enjoy the changing vegetation and alpine plants along the way. 〇Tour Fee 8,900 yen (tax included) per person Includes guide, chartered bus, and lunch 〇Dates August 19th (Wednesday) and 20th (Thursday), 2026 〇Time 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Gathering at 8:35 AM) 〇Location Around Mt. Kamegamori *Gathering/Dispersal at Saijo City Tourism Exchange Center 〇Capacity 20 participants per day, first come first served Minimum number of participants: 15 〇Reservations and Inquiries (General Incorporated Association) Saijo City Tourism and Products Association Registered Travel Agency No. 3-201, Ehime Prefecture TEL 0897-56-2605

This year, the hot summer in Uwajima is coming again! The Uwajima Ushioni Matsuri is celebrating its 60th edition. Paid viewing seats will be available for the fireworks display on July 22nd. Please enjoy the fireworks that color the summer in Uwajima. *Scan the QR code to view the details.

In June, Kagawa Prefecture not only boasts the azure scenery of the Seto Inland Sea but also welcomes the blooming season of hydrangeas at Mt. Shiude in Mitoyo City. As you slowly ascend the winding mountain road, you can see blue, purple, and pink hydrangeas adorning both sides of the path, as if draping a soft colorful garment over early summer. Upon reaching the observation deck at the summit, the breathtaking view unfolds before you. The islands of the Seto Inland Sea scatter across the horizon, appearing especially clear against the bright sky, while the blooming hydrangeas reflect the colors of the sea and sky, creating a unique and stunning landscape of Mt. Shiude. A gentle breeze passes through, causing the flowers to sway lightly, and the air is filled with the fresh scent unique to the rainy season, prompting you to slow down and savor the tranquility of nature. Strolling along the pathways, you can frequently discover various species of hydrangeas competing for attention, attracting many photography enthusiasts to stop and capture the scene. Compared to the crowds during cherry blossom season, early summer at Mt. Shiude feels more leisurely and relaxed, allowing visitors to enjoy both the floral and coastal vistas at their own pace. If you have the chance to visit Kagawa in June, consider planning a trip to Mt. Shiude. Surrounded by the vibrant hydrangeas and breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea, experience the most charming essence of early summer in Japan.

Yokeno Entei This is a stone and concrete sediment control dam located in the upper reaches of the Shigenobu River. Constructed in 1935, it is made entirely from stones sourced from the islands of Setouchi. In spring, the collaboration of cherry blossoms and stone masonry is beautiful, and around Golden Week, a local event called "Shigenobu River Koinobori Hanging" takes place, attracting many visitors. The prefectural direct-operated project began construction in 1932. A secondary dam, measuring 92 meters in length, was built downstream of the primary dam, which is 115 meters long, with both featuring a surface made of granite. The excellent condition of the remaining structure showcases the advanced construction techniques of the time. It has been designated as a registered tangible cultural property by the national government.

Shiogamori Furusato Park, campsite, viewing platform This park is located near the summit of Shiogamori Mountain at an elevation of 525 meters, encompassing a zone with a diameter of approximately 750 meters that includes the "viewing platform," "campsite," "park," and "Shiogamori Mountain Summit." The "Shiogamori Furusato Park Viewing Platform" is a must-see for families with children. It features an athletic area and offers a fantastical atmosphere reminiscent of a foreign land. You can enjoy a grand panorama that extends all the way to the Chugoku Mountains. A stroll along the walking path to Shiogamori allows you to enjoy cherry blossoms and rhododendrons in spring, hydrangeas in summer, and autumn leaves in fall. The campsite within the park has a cooking facility. *When using the park for barbecues or camping, you must report your name, contact information, and date of use to the Toon City Urban Development Division Park Section (089-964-4412). This is for contact purposes in case of any issues, not for reservations. *For barbecues, please use a barbecue grill; open flames are prohibited, and take your trash and ashes home. Please be considerate of those around you. *The water from the taps in the cooking facility is natural water and is not suitable for drinking.

Saragamine The Saragamine hiking trail is popular for its lush paths and the colorful flowers that change with the seasons, offering various scenic views. Among them, the "Ryūjin-daira" that unfolds before you halfway up the mountain is a must-see. A gentle and vast wetland stretches out ahead, leaving first-time visitors amazed, thinking, "I can't believe such a view is so close by..." From Ryūjin-daira, you pass through a beech virgin forest to reach the summit. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kumakogen town (to the south). While multiple routes exist, the one from the wind hole trailhead at Kamihayashi Forest Park in Toon City is the most popular.

5/7 and 8, Mt. Kamegamori Flower Watching Tour The Akebono azaleas were in full bloom. Next time, enjoy the summer season with a large number of flowers. Would you like to explore with a nature guide at an elevation of 1,700 meters?! Upcoming Schedule August 19 (Wed), 20 (Thu) Summer October 7 (Wed), 8 (Thu), 21 (Wed) Autumn 【Reservations and Inquiries】 Saijo City Tourism and Product Association Registered Travel Agency No. 3-201, Ehime Prefecture TEL: 0897-56-2605

We look forward to everyone's participation in the following tours and experiences. 【*Spring session fully booked, summer and autumn spots available*】'Mt. Kamegamori Flower Watching Tour' Images 1-8 - Observe seasonal subalpine plants with a guide - Enjoy safe and secure private bus transportation - Experience the changing vegetation while traveling up to an elevation of about 1700m. - Take commemorative photos at scenic points - Stroll leisurely along paved paths and enjoy the mountain air easily. Date and Time: May 7th (Thursday) Spring session fully booked August 19th (Wednesday), 20th (Thursday) Summer session October 7th (Wednesday), 8th (Thursday), 21st (Wednesday) Autumn session Tour Fee: 8,900 yen Payment on the day of the tour, cash only (Includes: bus operation fee, guide fee, accident insurance, lunch) Each day from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (*Gathering at 8:35 AM, reception at the Saijo City Tourist Exchange Center next to iyosaijou station*) Capacity: 20 participants per session on a first-come, first-served basis (minimum number of participants is 15) Application Deadline: 14 days before each tour date 【*A few spots left*】 'Experience the Aroma of the Forest with Kuromoji' Images 9-11 - Enjoy part of the extraction process of Kuromoji essential oil and distillate, as well as a silk scarf dyeing experience - High-quality Japanese essential oil, distillate, and silk scarf extracted from just 1.5ml from 1kg of branches and leaves will be souvenirs - Relax in the noble aroma of the forest at the foot of the mountain Date and Time: May 18th (Monday), June 15th (Monday) Tour Fee: 6,000 yen, payment on the day of the tour, cash only (Includes: instructor fee, lunch) From 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM (*Gathering at 9:50 AM, reception at the Ishizuchi Nature and Living Research Room (former Ooboki Clinic)*) Capacity: 8 participants per session on a first-come, first-served basis (minimum number of participants is 4) Application Deadline: 10 days before each tour date Contact and Application Information (General Incorporated Association) Saijo City Tourism and Products Association Registered travel agency No. 3-201 by the Ehime Prefectural Governor Phone: 0897-56-2605 FAX: 0897-47-3733 #Tour #Nature #Ishizuchi #Plants #Stroll #Subalpine #Foot of the Mountain #Scenic View #Guide #Essential Oil #Distillate #Floral Water #Kuromoji

The cherry blossoms in Bujo are at their best. Depending on the weather, I expect they will be enjoyable through the end of this week. Please do visit. Elsewhere across the city, trees are also in full bloom. Bujo Park 793-0035 Fukutake, Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture

On this trip to Tokushima, I made a point of visiting Mima City's famous Wakimachi Udatsu Townscape. Walking into this historic street, traditional machiya townhouses from the Edo to Meiji periods stand neatly on both sides, and the strong sense of antiquity makes you feel as if you have stepped back in time. The most striking feature is the tall udatsu rising on both sides of the roofs. Originally built as firebreak walls to prevent fires from spreading, they later became symbols of merchants' wealth and status because of the high cost of construction. White plaster walls, black lattice windows, and tiled roofs weave together an elegant streetscape. Strolling slowly along this street, you can not only admire the beauty of traditional architecture but also sense the historical atmosphere of a former commercial town.

Today I joined the 11th “One-Day Hospitality Pilgrimage Walk” and walked a short section of the Shikoku pilgrimage route. The trip started at No. 75 temple Zentsuji, passed Nos. 76 and 77, and ended at No. 78 Tojo-ji Temple. For someone like me who has always lived in Kagawa, this was more than a hike; it felt like a journey to rediscover the land and its culture. Before departure, local residents served steaming udon and tea to encourage participants. This practice, called hospitality, is one of the most moving sights along the Shikoku pilgrimage. Locals believe that treating pilgrims kindly is like welcoming Kukai himself, so they give generously and let travelers feel the deep warmth of human kindness. Walking the old paths, we passed winter fields and quiet villages without the noise of the city—only footsteps and a light breeze. Zentsuji, as Kukai’s birthplace, stands with solemn grandeur; arriving at Tojo-ji Temple, the hilltop view opens to the Seto Inland Sea, broadening the outlook and calming the heart. Though only a little over ten kilometers, the route felt like crossing a thousand years, sharing the same path of faith with countless pilgrims. This experience made me realize that the pilgrimage is not just a religious tour but a way to connect with nature, history, and people’s hearts. Even walking a small section can leave a warm, lasting impression.

Saiki Foods Co., Ltd.'s Saiki Plum Garden is holding a Plum Festival as follows. We warmly invite you to visit. Saiki Plum Garden 〒799-1108 Ehime Prefecture, Saijo City, Komatsu-cho, 18 Yasui Otsu Plum Viewing Period: February 2, 2026 (Monday) – February 27, 2026 (Friday) Hours: 9:30–16:00 【Events During the Plum Viewing Period】 Dates: February 14, 2026 (Saturday), February 15 (Sunday), February 21 (Saturday), February 22 (Sunday), February 23 (Monday, National Holiday) Hours: 9:30–16:00 Details: ・Sale of various plum products (including an alcoholic beverages corner) Plum udon, curry rice, waffles, pudding, ohagi (sweet rice cakes), fried chicken, French fries, burdock tempura, coffee, vegetables, shiitake mushrooms, honey sales, and more A karaoke corner will also be available ・Lucky draw raffle (every event day 10:00–16:00) ・Performances by amateur bands from Saijo City (February 15, 13:00–14:30) ・Dōzen Taiko (February 14, 11:00–12:00; February 22, 13:00–14:00) SAIKI PLUM GARDEN The Plum Festival is being held as follows. We warmly invite you to visit. Saiki plum garden Address: 18 Yasui Otsu, Komatsu-cho, Saijo City, Ehime 799-1108, Japan Plum Viewing Period: February 2 (Mon) – February 27 (Fri), 2026 Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 【Events During the Plum Viewing Period】 Dates: February 14 (Sat), 15 (Sun), 21 (Sat), 22 (Sun), 23 (Mon, National Holiday), 2026 Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Details: Sale of various plum products (including an alcoholic beverages corner) Plum udon, curry rice, waffles, pudding, ohagi (sweet rice cakes), fried chicken, French fries, burdock tempura, coffee, vegetables, shiitake mushrooms, honey, and more A karaoke corner will also be available Lucky draw raffle (every event day, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.) Performance by amateur bands from Saijo City (February 15, 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.) Dōzen Taiko drum performance (February 14, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. / February 22, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.) We hope you will come and enjoy the beautiful plum blossoms and festive atmosphere.

26/02/11 Saijo Water Tour Students from Kochi Prefecture joined us. The water city has lacked moisture due to consecutive sunny days. *Photos 6 and 7 show it when it was more hydrated* Many people gather at various water-drawing spots seeking the artesian wells called "uchinuki" that spring from underground. "Saijo Water Tour with a Guide" can be found by searching "Imadoki Saijo"