Jōgū Tenmangū Address: 1-chome Tenjinmachi, Takatsuki City Access: About a 10-minute walk north from the north exit of Takatsuki Station Jōgū Tenmangū is a shrine located in Tenjinmachi, Takatsuki City, Osaka Prefecture. It was formerly classified as a local shrine. It is commonly referred to as "Uenomiya Tenmangū" and is also known as "Kitayama no Tenjin-san." It is said to be "the second oldest Tenmangū in Japan after Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine," and the name "Jōgū" is believed to have been given because its establishment predates that of Kitano Tenmangu in Kyoto. The shrine grounds have a first and second parking lot for visitors from the Kansai region, with a total capacity of about 30 vehicles. During busy periods such as New Year's visits, the parking lots may be closed, so it is advisable to consider using nearby coin parking or reservation-based parking. The goshuin can be received at the shrine office from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Kagura Hall Performances from August to November In Kiyokawamachi, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, there is a facility called Kagura Hall. Regular public performances of Kagura are held here. We would like to inform you of the schedule for public performances from August to November. 【Location】Kagura Hall (810 Sunada, Kiyokawamachi, Bungoono City) 【Admission Fee】General: 1,200 yen / Middle school students and under: 500 yen (An additional 500 yen on the day) *Tickets are available for advance reservation or on-the-day sales. 【Contact】Kagura Hall TEL: 0974-35-2372 ❚ August Public Performance 【Date and Time】Sunday, August 16, 2026, from 12:30 to 15:30 【Performing Groups】Asakusa-ryu Matsuo Kagura, Okakura Kagura Society 【Reservation Start Date】From June 16, 2026 ❚ August Independent Performance 【Date and Time】Sunday, August 22, 2026, from 12:30 to 15:30 【Performing Groups】Oita Prefectural Taketa High School Gashu Kagura Aikōkai, Yufu High School Local Performing Arts Club 【Reservation Start Date】From June 22, 2026 【Admission Fee】General: 800 yen, Middle school students and under: 500 yen (same price for advance and on-the-day) ❚ September Public Performance 【Date and Time】Sunday, September 20, 2026, from 12:30 to 15:30 【Performing Groups】Asakusa Inuyama Kagurasha, Shonai Baru Kagura Preservation Society 【Reservation Start Date】From July 20, 2026 ❚ October Public Performance 【Date and Time】Sunday, October 18, 2026, from 12:30 to 15:30 【Performing Groups】Shibayama Hachimansha Fuzoku Shibayama Riraku, Takenaka Kagura Preservation Society 【Reservation Start Date】From August 18, 2026 ❚ November Public Performance 【Date and Time】Sunday, November 15, 2026, from 12:30 to 15:30 【Performing Groups】Ontake Kagura 【Reservation Start Date】From September 15, 2026 For more details, please check the "Kagura Hall" website.

Manda Pit is a place where you can learn about the workings of a coal mine just by looking at the buildings. The shaft tower, hoisting machine room, and coal mine train each appear to be separate facilities, but they are actually part of a larger system for digging, transporting, and supporting coal. Walking through this industrial heritage also means understanding the connection between technology and human labor. 【Visiting Information】9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and middle school students / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Coal Mine Mechanisms #Arao City Tourism #Miike Coal Mine #Industrial Heritage #Modern Industrial Heritage #History of Technology #Educational Travel #Historical Studies #Manda Coal Mine #Arao City #Kumamoto #Japan Travel #Visit Japan #World Heritage #Industrial Heritage #Educational Travel

Asaji HOT FES ❚ Scheduled for August 11, 2026 On Tuesday, August 11th, a public holiday, the "Asaji HOT FES" will be held at Yusaku Park in Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. On that day, 18 performers from both inside and outside the prefecture will gather, with live performances scheduled throughout the day. Food and drink will also be available for purchase at the venue, featuring meals such as curry, fried skewers, yakisoba, and loco moco, along with beer and shochu. It promises to be a day where you can leisurely enjoy music and food amidst the summer scenery. 【Date】 August 11, 2026 (Tuesday, public holiday) Doors open at 9:30 AM, starts at 10:00 AM 【Location】 Yusaku Park (3914 Ageozuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture) 【Admission】 Free 【Parking】 Available ■ Contact Information Yusaku Base (Contact: Arimoto) TEL: 080-5285-0477

Matcha has exploded in popularity worldwide, and Kyoto needs no introduction. But whether you have newly come to like Matcha or are an old fan from before the boom, Uji is the place to go, and well worth braving the Kyoto crowds. Uji has been a center of green tea production for centuries, and my dusty 1935 book on the history of tea affords it pride of place, describing it in detail, indicating it was known to America as a famous matcha center even in the first half of the 20th century. 2026 isn't 1935, and there's considerably more ice cream than there used to be, to say nothing of foreign visitors. But there is a core of authentic continuity there that continues to serve locally made tea, and its hard to beat the flavor. As a plus, the area is quite beautiful, with notable historical sites like the Byodoin temple, and a peaceful atmosphere. I always feel happier after having visited, so it has become a repeat destination for me.

Gion Festival Shinko Festival: Countless smartphones capturing the Mikoshi procession This image captures the magnificent sight of the Mikoshi procession filling Shijō Street during the "Shinko Festival" of the Gion Festival, which symbolizes summer in Kyoto. The Tōmi Mikoshi, shining in gold and white, is powerfully carried by bearers in white garments. In a bid to catch a glimpse of this historic moment, the crowd lining the streets raises a multitude of smartphones in unison. This vibrant scene represents the fusion of traditional festival culture and modern societal behavior, encapsulating the spirit of our times. Gioncho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture

I am a big fan of Toyooka's Mongol Culture Center, and find myself visiting there once every couple of years, even though it has not had many major updates. Imagine my surprise, then, to learn it has a collaboration with a new anime! Incredibly, the original work's author seems to be named "Tomato Soup". What a world we live in! For this new collaboration, which will run from August of this year to the next, the focus will be on notable female figures in Mongol history, especially Sorkhokthani Beki and Töregene. For fans of the anime, apparently there will be anime-related goods and content as well, so it is sure to have something for fans of either history or anime. Already the museum had a very interesting section where you could not just see but even try on various Mongolian clothes, but it sounds like they may specifically be adding some based on these Mongolian princesses. I think it is great that Toyooka maintains such an active cultural life, and I can't wait to go to my favorite museum in Hyogo again to see the new exhibit! Toyooka is a bit out of the way, but visitors are well rewarded with the famous Kinosaki Onsen, delicious crab cuisine, and lots of beautiful wildlife, including the nearby Stork Preserve. I would definitely recommend visiting!

Did you know that Manda Pit was one of the main entrances of the Miike Coal Mine? Coal was an important energy source that supported modern Japan's industry and transportation. Walking through Manda Pit allows you to feel how the region and industry were connected. It's not just about seeing the buildings; knowing their roles deepens the visit. 【Visiting Information】9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (the following weekday if a public holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and junior high school students / Manda Mine Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Fun Facts #Miike Coal Mine #History of Coal Mining #Modernization of Japan #Industrial History #Educational Travel #Social Studies Field Trip #Historical Travel #MandaCoalMine #Arao City #Kumamoto Travel #IndustrialHistory #JapaneseHistory #WorldHeritage #JapanTravel #VisitJapan

Mynavi Tour de Kyushu 2026 Oita-Kumamoto Stage ❚ Taking place on October 11, 2026 On October 11, Bungo-Ono will serve as the starting point for the international road race! The athletes will sprint along the roads leading to Harajiri Falls and Kuju Highland. Why not join us on-site to watch the exciting day unfold? The international cycling road race "Mynavi Tour de Kyushu 2026" will be held in Kyushu On October 11 (Sunday), STAGE 2 Oita-Kumamoto Stage will start in front of Bungo-Ono City Hall. The Oita-Kumamoto Stage covers approximately 128 km, departing from Bungo-Ono City and passing through Taketa City, Minamiogunimachi, Ubuyama, Aso City, and Takamori Town before heading to Minamiasomura. The route will pass by tourist attractions such as Harajiri Falls and Kuju Highland, then head south along Yamanami Highway. Athletes will race through scenic views of the Aso Outer Rim Mountains and vast grasslands. We invite you to come and witness the athletes in action on-site. ■ What is Tour de Kyushu Tour de Kyushu is a UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) sanctioned cycling road race. It has been decided to be held as an event symbolizing the legacy of the Rugby World Cup, the promotion of cycling tourism in Kyushu , and the recovery from recent natural disasters. Not only is it an exciting competition, but it also serves as a platform to widely promote the natural beauty, landscapes, and local attractions of Kyushu.

Gion Festival Points for Enjoyment Walking to See the Floats The centerpiece of the Gion Festival is undoubtedly the floats. Seeing the luxurious decorations and intricate designs up close is truly impressive. During the day, you can enjoy the overall grandeur, while at night, the lanterns create a serene atmosphere. Experiencing the Atmosphere of the Evening Festival The time when the floats are lined up makes walking around the city enjoyable. The stalls, the flow of people, and the bustling atmosphere of the float districts all combine to create a festive air that is quintessentially Kyoto. Taking a Close Look at the Townhouses and Decorations Not only the floats but also the surrounding townscape and shop arrangements are charming. Walking while admiring the hanging decorations and ornaments reveals the depth of the festival. Avoiding Crowds The popular time slots can get quite crowded. If you prefer to take your time, choosing early hours or times closer to weekdays makes for easier walking. Useful Items to Have Comfortable shoes Drinks and hats for heat protection A small bag for crowded times Rain gear in case of weather changes Is it true that you shouldn't eat cucumbers during the Gion Festival? This is related to the family crest of Yasaka Shrine, the deity of the Gion Festival. The family crest of Yasaka Shrine resembles the cross-section of a sliced cucumber. Because of this, the townspeople of Kyoto have had a tradition of not eating cucumbers during the Gion Festival.

Gion Festival... Pre-Festival Night On July 15th (Wednesday) and 16th (Thursday), during the evening festivities, certain areas will become pedestrian-only zones (car-free zones), lined with food stalls. The pedestrian zone hours, excluding some streets, are from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. The pedestrian areas include Shijō Street (from Higashioji Street to Horikawa Street), Karasuma-dori Street (from Oike Street to Takatsuji Street), Muromachi-dōri (from Sanjō Street to Takatsuji Street), and Shinmachidori (from Takoyakushi Street to Takatsuji Street). Bicycles are not allowed in the pedestrian-only zones. The Gion Festival nights can get quite crowded, especially around the floats and major streets, making movement difficult. Avoid going against the flow of people and steer towards less crowded streets. Parents with small children and elderly individuals should refrain from pushing into the crowded center. Stay hydrated and take measures against the heat. As evening falls, the sounds of "Konchikichin" resonate from each float district. The Gion music, played with bells, flutes, and drums, has long been cherished as a sound heralding the arrival of summer in Kyoto. Surrounded by the glow of lanterns, the time spent admiring the floats while listening to Gion music is truly enchanting. The lantern light adds a different kind of splendor compared to daytime. Due to the large crowds, stepping back to view the overall scene is also beautiful.

祇園祭2026年 京都の夏といえば祇園祭が真っ先に浮かびますね・・・ 祇園祭は、京都の八坂神社の祭礼で、疫病退散を祈る行事として平安時代に始まったと伝えられています。 現在は日本三大祭の一つとして知られ、豪華な山鉾や神輿、さまざまな神事が1か月にわたって行われます。 7月1日ごろ 吉符入など 祭の始まりを告げる神事 7月10日 神輿洗・お迎え提灯 鴨川で神輿を清める神事 7月14日〜16日 前祭・宵山 山鉾が建ち並び、夜の賑わいが最高潮 7月17日 前祭・山鉾巡行と神幸祭神輿渡御 7月21日〜23日 後祭・宵山 落ち着いた雰囲気で山鉾を見学 7月24日 後祭・山鉾巡行と花傘巡行 山鉾が再び都大路を進む日 7月31日 疫神社夏越祭 祭の締めくくりの神事 熱中症対策がとても大事な場面です。 通気性のよい薄手の服、帽子、(日傘巡行時はNG) 首元を冷やせるタオルや保冷剤 こまめに飲める水やお茶、スポーツドリンク 塩分タブレットなどナトリウム補給ができるもの 体調が悪い・・・人混みや長時間の観覧を無理しない トイレはコンビニなど使用できません・・・ トイレマップアプリで・・・

On your way back from Tamana, we also recommend stopping by Manda Pit in Arao City. After enjoying hot springs and meals, adding some time to walk through this World Heritage site will make your trip in Northern Kumamoto even more fulfilling. Even a short visit offers a lot to see, allowing you to feel the history while taking photos. It's perfect for small group trips. 【Visitation Information】9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and junior high school students / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Tamana #Kumamoto Prefecture North #Northern Kumamoto Tourism #Day Trips #Small Group Travel #Historical Walks #Industrial Heritage #Photography Trips #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #Tamana #KumamotoTravel #JapanTravel #VisitJapan #WorldHeritage #HeritageTravel

Mr. Takuya Kurose, a Kumamoto Prefecture employee from Reihokumachi, and the experiential content production group MATH GAME from Saitama Prefecture have created a game called "One Step to Sky Blue: At the End of the Ripple" that is enjoyable with books. This work was produced as a sequel to "Beyond the Ripples," which was announced last May. On July 14, a trial play event conducted by Takushin High School students was held and received great acclaim. The game aims to convey the charm of Reihokumachi, and it is planned to be utilized for raising awareness of Reihokumachi as a tourist destination and creating a related population. 【To actually play "One Step to Sky Blue: At the End of the Ripple"】 Adjustments are underway so that it can be experienced within the town in the future, so stay tuned! Additionally, the previous work "Beyond the Ripples" is already available to play on the smartphone app "uzu," so please try to prepare before the sequel!

Kodai Fire Festival ❚ Held on August 14, 2026 The Kodai Fire Festival will take place in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. The lights of the kodai (small torches) will emerge fantastically from the area around Harajiri Falls, illuminating the Ogata Plains. 【Event Date】Friday, August 14, 2026 ※Postponed by one day in case of bad weather 【Location】Around Harajiri Falls and the Ogata Plains ※Traffic regulations will be enforced from 18:30 on the 14th. Please follow the instructions of the staff. 【Ignition Time】19:30, simultaneous ignition 【Number of Lights】Approximately 10,000 【Flame Sculpture Exhibition】 Around the venue, local residents will create unique torii gates and stone bridges with torches, showcasing their beauty in a competition. 【Contact for Event Inquiries】 Ogata Branch, Bungoono City, Phone: 0974-42-2111 Harajiri Falls Roadside Station Co., Ltd., Phone: 0974-42-4140 ❚ What is the Kodai Fire Festival? A traditional event passed down since the Edo period. Its origins are unclear, but it is said to be related to the memorial for the Bon festival, the wish for a good rice harvest, and the memorial for victims of uprisings that occurred during the Edo period.

Event Announcement📣 On July 19 (Sunday), the 15th Furusato Ginga Line Rikubetsu Railway Festival will be held😊 For nearly 100 years since 1910, this public railway has been running through Rikubetsu Town. After its closure in 2006, it was reborn in April 2008 as a tourist facility where visitors can experience actual train operations! To promote this historic "Rikubetsu Railway" and encourage more people to ride and experience it, we are hosting this event🎵 On the evening of July 18, about 2,000 fireworks will light up the summer night sky🎆 In conjunction with this, a special fireworks train will be operated, allowing passengers to enjoy the fireworks from inside the diesel train!! Passengers will receive local specialty products from Rikubetsu Town as a gift. Reservations are currently being accepted🚂 (Note: Fireworks train → Capacity 32 people, 1,500 yen) Additionally, stage shows featuring street performers and music performances by Backyard Music are also planned‼ During the stage event on July 19, we will welcome the popular Yoshimoto Kogyo comedians "Slim Club and Denjin Band" for a comedy stage performance. Moreover, in the "Special Train Experience Ride," we will extend the ride experience, which is usually limited to the station premises, as a special train for this event to Koi-yamagata Station in the suburbs. Those wishing to ride can register on the day of the event. (Note: Special train → Adults 500 yen, Elementary school students 300 yen) Don't miss this rare opportunity for a unique experience😍 Other activities include horseback riding experiences, a bingo tournament with a chance to win a Nintendo Switch 2, and dance performances by elementary school students from Rikubetsu, among various programs planned🎁🎁 Many vendors will also be present, so we invite everyone to come together and join us🤗 🔶 Date and Time <Pre-festival> July 18, 2026 (Saturday) 18:00–20:30 <Main Festival> July 19, 2026 (Sunday) 10:00–16:00 🔶 Venue <Pre-festival> Midori-machi Soccer Field <Main Festival> Inside Rikubetsu Railway Station & Multipurpose Square in front of the station 🔶 Fireworks Train Applications & Inquiries Furusato Ginga Line Rikubetsu Railway Festival Executive Committee Office (Rikubetsu Town Hall, Industrial Promotion Division) TEL: 0156-27-2141 https://www.rikubetsu.jp/kanko/event/tetsudoumatsuri/...

I recently visited Glicopia, a factory in Kobe that makes Pocky and Pretz. I think Pocky was the first chocolate I ever knew was specifically Japanese, and I think it is definitely an iconic snack well-recognized around the world. It was fun to get a closer look at its production! The guided tours show the history of the company, from its early 20th century origins to the postwar expansion of products, with old commercials, toys that came included with snacks through the years, and a fun "digital cooking" game where you design and decorate your own sweets. The assembly line itself is very advanced, and you can see pocky being made in great quantities. This time they were making a flavor that has yet to hit shelves, which made it even more interesting. The air near the production area has a warm, delicious scent, which is a bonus. If you liked pocky a lot yourself growing up, or are travelling with kids, I think it is a great place to visit! Reservations are necessary, and I believe most of it is Japanese-language only, but looking at a chocolate factory is pretty universal regardless of language.

If you're exploring the Omuta and Arou area, Manda Pit is a must-visit spot. By learning about the history of the Miike Coal Mine, you'll gain insight into the role this region played in Japan's industry. It's also recommended as an entry point for a journey through industrial heritage. How about extending your trip to the World Heritage site in Arao City before or after your outing or festival in Omuta? [Visiting Information] 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (or the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and junior high school students / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Omuta #MiikeCoalMine #IndustrialHeritageTour #ModernIndustrialHeritage #HistoricalTravel #WeekendTrip #CoalMineRuins #MandaCoalMine #Omuta #AraoCity #KumamotoTravel #JapanTravel #VisitJapan #IndustrialHeritage #WorldHeritage

On July 11, 2026, hydrangea flower picking took place around Fukoji in Asaji Town, Bungoono City. About 50 participants carefully picked the hydrangea flowers blooming in the temple grounds and surrounding areas. Thank you very much to everyone who helped out. This flower picking is an important task to ensure beautiful hydrangeas bloom next year. By properly maintaining them at this time, we can enjoy magnificent flowers again during the rainy season. I am already looking forward to seeing even more beautiful hydrangeas blooming next year. ■■■Access to downtown Bungoono City■■■ Approximately 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture Approximately 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing recommended spots for sightseeing in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

[Traditional Event] Satokagura at Shiroyama Tenmangū Shrine in Kanbayashi Every July, the Satokagura is offered to pray for the peace of the Kanbayashi District. It has also been designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of the city. The Satokagura is said to have been continued since the Kamakura period, but it was interrupted once after World War II. In the 1950s, local people revived this important ritual, and this year marks the 50th anniversary of the Kagura Preservation Society. The Satokagura at Shiroyama Tenmangū Shrine will be offered tomorrow. Offering Date and Time: July 12, 2023 (Sunday) From 1:00 PM, the ritual Around 1:30 PM, the Kagura offering After that, there will be a children's sumo tournament and mochi throwing. *There is no parking available at the shrine. #Toon City #Kanbayashi District #Satokagura #Shiroyama Tenmangū Shrine #Intangible Folk Cultural Property #Traditional Event #Kamibayashi Kagura Preservation Society #Kagura Offering

♨️ 【Walking in the Hot Springs - Mt. Io to Kawayu Onsen Guided Tour】 Would you like to travel with hot springs from the origin of Kawayu Onsen, Mt. Io? The third tour will be held on Sunday, July 26th! (Future tours are planned to be held irregularly☺️) 【Tour Flow】 A local nature guide will walk with you from Mt. Io through the Tsutsujigahara Nature Trail to Kawayu Onsen, providing explanations along the way🚶 At the end of the tour, you can enjoy bathing at Kawayu Public Bathhouse Yukichi♨️ (An original Yukichi towel will also be a gift❗️) The more you learn about the nature and history around Mt. Io and Kawayu Onsen, the more enjoyable your hot spring experience will become☺️ 【Information】 On the day of the tour, please gather at Kawayu Public Bathhouse Yukichi, and we will provide free transportation to the parking lot at Mt. Io, the starting point. The Tsutsujigahara Nature Trail has little elevation change, so anyone who can walk 3 km can participate. To register, please scan the QR code in the fifth photo. ☑️Tour Date and Time July 26th (Sunday) 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, free to disperse ☑️Meeting/Dispersal Location: Kawayu Public Bathhouse Yukichi @yukichi.kawayuonsen ☑️Capacity: 7 people (minimum required: 3 people) ☑️Tour Fee: ¥3500 per person (cash payment only on the day) ☑️Included: Insurance, hot spring admission fee, original Yukichi towel ☑️Walking Distance: Approximately 3 km (with breaks along the way) ☑️Clothing and Items to Bring Comfortable clothing (long sleeves recommended for UV and insect bite prevention), comfortable shoes like sneakers, a hat, drinks, and a hot spring set (not provided at Yukichi) ⚠️Important Notes ・The tour will be canceled in case of bad weather or warnings. ・Please understand in advance that Mt. Io is an active volcano with a possibility of eruption, and the walking trail is a habitat for brown bears and wildlife. ・If you have any health issues, pre-existing conditions, or disabilities, please inform the guide in advance. For inquiries, please DM Kamata at Omusubi Hokkaido Tour Guide (@omusubi_946). We look forward to your participation.

The August issue of the magazine "Discover Japan" (Discover Japan Co., Ltd.) features our town's "Uchida Sarayama Ware" and "Tomioka Castle - Reihoku Town History Museum." It includes information about the kilns that have been passed down in this region for generations, as well as guides that convey the history of Reihokumachi. The content is filled with the rich history and warmth of craftsmanship from Reihokumachi. We hope you will take a look at it in bookstores or online stores and use it as a reference for your next visit to Reihokumachi. Featured Content Special Theme: To the Sea and Mountains Featured Facilities Uchida Sarayama Ware Tomioka Castle Reihoku Town History Museum About "Discover Japan" For more details, please visit the official website of "Discover Japan." We look forward to welcoming you along with the nature and culture of Reihokumachi. Amakusa Reihoku Tourist Association

When you come to the area around Greenland, be sure to stop by Manda Pit. You can enjoy a quiet historical time, which is different from the hustle and bustle of amusement parks. This course allows you to experience both play and learning during your family trip. The large buildings and coal mine trains are attractions that children can easily understand. 【Visitation Information】9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (the following weekday if it's a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Fees: Adults and university students 410 yen, high school students 310 yen, elementary and junior high school students 210 yen / Manda Mine Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Around Greenland #Arao City Tourism #Family Travel #Parent-Child Travel #Educational Travel #Day Trip #Miike Coal Mine #Industrial Heritage #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #KumamotoTravel #FamilyTrip #JapanTravel #VisitJapan #WorldHeritage #EducationalTravel

The Wakasa Kuniyoshi Castle History Museum will host the 2023 Summer Special Exhibition and the collaborative exhibition "Toyotomi Government and Sagaki – Kuniyoshi Castle and the Castle Town" starting Saturday, July 18th. This collaborative exhibition involves the Tsuruga Municipal Museum, Takefu Public Hall Memorial Museum, and Wakasa Kuniyoshi Castle History Museum, and it highlights the major renovations of Kuniyoshi Castle by Kimura Hitachinosuke Sadamitsu, a direct vassal of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, as well as the establishment of the castle town of Sagaki, in relation to the broadcast of the historical drama "Toyotomi Brothers!" 2023 Summer Special Exhibition and Collaborative Exhibition "Toyotomi Government and Sagaki – Kuniyoshi Castle and the Castle Town" Duration: July 18, 2023 (Saturday) to October 12, 2023 (Monday, public holiday) Location: Wakasa Kuniyoshi Castle History Museum Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM (April to November) 10 AM to 4:30 PM (December to March) Closed: Every Monday (the following day if a holiday) 25-2 Sagaki, Mihama Town, Mikata-gun, Fukui Prefecture Phone: 0770-32-0050 Admission Fee: 100 yen for adults, 50 yen for children (junior high school students and below) *Group discount for 20 or more people.

Taishaku Gorge ❚ Oita Bungo-Ono Geopark Located in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Taishaku Gorge is a scenic area surrounded by cliffs of welded tuff with developed columnar jointing, stretching along the Okudake River. The rock walls on both sides rise about 70 meters high, creating a majestic and impressive landscape in conjunction with the clear blue river flow. Taishaku Gorge is a canyon formed by the erosion of welded tuff created by a massive eruption of Mount Aso 90,000 years ago, with the Okudake River gradually carving it over a long period. The valley floor exposes rocks formed by volcanic activity around 15 million years ago, allowing visitors to closely feel the geological history of the area. It is also known as one of the geo-sites of the Oita Bungo-Ono Geopark, attracting attention for its natural landscape and geological value. Additionally, slightly upstream, there is a cave where charred wood, baked by pyroclastic flows, is buried, preserving traces of volcanic activity. Walking along the promenade brings visitors closer to the riverside, allowing for a more intimate experience of the rock faces, the tranquil air of the gorge, and the clarity of the water, which are all part of the charm of Taishaku Gorge. In summer, the clear waters present a refreshing landscape, while autumn brings colorful foliage to the gorge. With its varying expressions throughout the seasons, Taishaku Gorge is one of the representative natural landscapes of Bungoono City, and it is a spot that many people should visit. 【Location】Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kobara 【Access】About 20 minutes by car from JR Ogata Station 【Parking】Available 【Restroom】Available ■■■Access to the center of Bungoono City■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Kyushu, introducing recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Wakeido was featured in an article by COOL JAPAN VIDEOS. As a sword specialty store, it introduces the history and allure of Japanese swords, the consultations available at Wakeido, and various services in the languages of over 100 countries. We will continue to promote the charm of Japanese swords and strive to provide attractive products. Explore the profound world of Japanese swords.

How about adding Manda Pit to your trip in Northern Kumamoto Prefecture? Incorporating a historical exploration of this World Heritage site into your journey filled with hot springs, gourmet food, and nature will broaden your travel experience. Even a visit lasting 30 minutes to an hour can leave a lasting impression. It is also recommended for those visiting the Tamana and Arou areas. 【Visitation Information】9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (the following weekday if a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: Adults and university students 410 yen, high school students 310 yen, elementary and middle school students 210 yen / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Northern Kumamoto #Tamana #Day Trip #Kumamoto Prefecture Tourism #Historical Exploration #Industrial Heritage #Learning Journey #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #Kumamoto #KumamotoTravel #JapanTravel #VisitJapan #WorldHeritage #TravelJapan

Chinda Falls ❚ Oita Bungo-Ono Geopark Notice of Reopening of Chinda Falls Friendship Park Due to construction, Chinda Falls Friendship Park had been completely off-limits for a while. Now that the surrounding construction has been successfully completed, access to the park and the popular "Old Power Station Ruins" is now available. Thank you very much to everyone who understood and cooperated during the construction period. 【Location】Yata, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture 【Access】About 5 minutes by car from Bungo-Kiyokawa Station 【Parking】Available ■■■Access to the center of Bungoono City■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing recommended tourist spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Deaibashi and Todorokibashi ❚ Oita Bungoono Geopark Located in Kiyokawamachi, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, are Deaibashi and Todorokibashi. This area boasts the largest and second-largest arch spans of stone bridges in Japan, making it a very precious location. Todorokibashi measures 32.1 meters, making it the largest in Japan, while Deaibashi measures 29.3 meters, ranking second. Deaibashi was completed in 1924, built by the local residents as an important road connecting the community. Todorokibashi was completed in 1934, historically constructed as a bridge for a forest railway transporting timber. Furthermore, these two bridges have been recognized as Civil Engineering Heritage by the Japan Society of Civil Engineers for the fiscal year 2025, drawing renewed attention as historically valuable landscapes. You can drive close to the area, and Todorokibashi is still used as a road bridge. In contrast, Deaibashi is a pedestrian bridge, allowing visitors to enjoy its unique charm on foot. The Okudake River flowing beneath the bridge and the surrounding columnar jointing landscape are also appealing features. A place where you can encounter the beauty of both history and nature. Why not take your time to visit? 【Location】Yada, Kiyokawamachi, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture 【Access】About 50 minutes by car from Oita Mera IC About 5 minutes by car from JR Bungokiyokawa Station 【Parking】Available ■■■Access to the center of Bungoono City■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing recommended spots for tourism in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

On your way from Fukuoka to Kumamoto, why not stop by the Manda Pit in Arao City? It's a UNESCO World Heritage site that is easy to visit even for a short time. Adding a historical location to your journey will deepen your travel experience. I highly recommend this stop for anyone passing through the Omuta and Arao area. 【Visiting Information】9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM) / Closed: Mondays (the following weekday if it's a holiday) and during the New Year holidays / Admission: 410 yen for adults and university students, 310 yen for high school students, 210 yen for elementary and junior high school students / Manda Pit Station (free exhibition room and ticket sales) #Fukuoka to Kumamoto #Day Trip #Omuta #Miike Coal Mine #Industrial Heritage #Historical Travel #Weekend Trip #MandaCoalMine #AraoCity #KumamotoTravel #FukuokaTravel #JapanTravel #VisitJapan #WorldHeritage #IndustrialHeritage