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.

In Memuro Town, at Memuro Shrine, during the summer, it is beautifully decorated with flower water offerings, wind chimes, and pinwheels. Recently, there was a fireworks festival, and it was said to be illuminated as well.

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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■

From the city to the great outdoors. A journey through Kushiro Shitsugen. The sounds of the wind, the ripples on the water, what you hear on the wooden path is only the breath of the Earth. Based at Kushiro Prince Hotel, step into another world that is just around the corner. You can make your reservation through the profile URL. 📍Kushiro Prince Hotel https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/...

First-time boat diving. Experience the sea of Nishi-Izu on a day trip from Tokyo. About a 3-hour drive from Tokyo. In Tago, Nishi-Izu, there is a port town where time flows leisurely. On this day, I went for my first boat dive during the AOW course. The sea was very calm. It was the perfect condition for a first boat dive. At first, I struggled a bit with equalizing my ears, but by the second dive, I was able to do it calmly. I could gradually do more things. That's one of the joys of diving. In Tago, there are many dive sites that can only be accessed by boat. This time, we headed to one of them, the entrance of a cave. A rocky space opened up in the blue sea. At the entrance, a school of hatanpo fish gathered, creating a fantastical underwater scene. This time, just a little. Next time, let's explore deeper into the cave. At the end of the diving session, I successfully became an AOW diver. Congratulations! The next destination is Okinawa. Japan still has many different expressions of the sea waiting for you. As summer arrives, the water temperature is rising. The sea that can be enjoyed on a day trip from Tokyo is also entering its best season. Not just famous tourist spots, but the seas of Japan. Hokule'a Shonan offers small group diving tours tailored to each individual. Would you like to spend a special day by the sea in Japan? --- A special day by the sea in Japan. 🌈 Hokule'a Shonan is a small diving shop located in Hiratsuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture. About an hour by train from Tokyo. We guide you to the seas of Japan that can be enjoyed on a day trip from Tokyo, such as Shonan and Izu. The theme is, "Let's embark on a journey to the unseen world!" I hope you can feel the beauty of Japan's seas, the richness of nature, and the local coastal time through diving. The tours are small group-based. Beginners and those who are not confident in swimming can participate with peace of mind. We also offer support in English. Would you like to spend a day by the sea during your trip to Japan? We will suggest a sea that suits you based on your travel schedule and diving experience. Please feel free to contact us.

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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Ohori Park on a holiday A handmade, unique bubble-making machine＾＾ It turns out it uses two rods.

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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Hoshino Resort Tomamu is home to Unkai Terrace. As a popular tourist spot, it attracts travelers from all over the country and the world during the summer vacation period. Until last year, it was common to see long lines starting from midnight in front of the lift station, and even after the gondola service began, people often had to wait over an hour to board. This season, the gondola has switched to a reservation system starting from the evening before, allowing guests to ride with almost no waiting time, making it significantly easier. However, since the sea of clouds is a natural phenomenon, you won't know if you can see it unless you actually go to the site at dawn. That's why the excitement when the sea of clouds is visible is so profound; everyone getting off the gondola was expressing their amazement. At this terrace, located over 1,000 meters above sea level, the temperature is about 6°C lower than at sea level. It gets quite chilly in the early morning, so dressing warmly is essential.

💠After the Hydrangea Festival💠 This year, we have floated hydrangeas pruned from Shimoda Park in the monument aquarium located in the rotary of Izukyu Shimoda Station.✨ Today (July 3rd), we worked in the morning, creating a vibrant space where colorful hydrangeas decorate the water's surface.🫧💎 This year's exhibition is limited to six days from July 3rd (Friday) to 5th (Sunday) and from July 10th (Friday) to 12th (Sunday)! Although the hydrangea festival has ended, you can still enjoy the hydrangeas of Shimoda for a little longer.😌 If you are using Izukyu Shimoda Station, please take a moment to stop by and see it. *Please note that the content may change or be canceled without notice due to weather or other circumstances. *Pruning and collecting plants in Shimoda Park is only conducted by authorized personnel. You are not allowed to cut or take plants from the park. *There is vehicle traffic in the rotary. Please ensure your safety while taking photos or visiting.

Sugao Stone Buddhas ❚ Oita Bungoono Geopark The Sugao Stone Buddhas are located in Mie Town, Bungoono City. The "Sugao Stone Buddhas" are five stone statues believed to have been created in the late Heian period. When viewed up close, their delicate and beautiful presence is breathtaking. The highlight is the remaining red color, which conveys the vividness of the past to the present, evoking a sense of historical romance. In stark contrast to the usual calm atmosphere, the "Sugao Stone Buddha Fire Festival" heats up the summer nights of Bungoono. After a unique "Rooster Imitation Contest" based on local legends brings smiles to the venue, an impressive "Torch Throwing" event takes place, inviting participants into a fantastical and vibrant world, quite different from the usual serene scenery. 【Location】466 Asase, Mie Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture 【Access】About 40 minutes by car from Oita Mera IC About 10 minutes by car from JR Sugao Station ■■■Access to Bungoono City Center■■■ 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 tourist attractions and recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

The Lake Mashu SKY Cruise will set sail again this year! Would you like to take a look at Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo from above? The popular "Lake Mashu SKY Cruise" will operate again this year. It will run from Saturday, August 8, 2026, to Wednesday, August 19, 2026, from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. (On the last day, August 19, it will finish at 3 PM.) The reservation period is from July 13 to August 19, with reception hours from 9 AM to 5 PM. Same-day applications are also welcome. You can also take aerial photographs, capturing the vast nature of Teshikaga from places you usually can't see! This is a great opportunity for photographers to enjoy as well. Please take advantage of this special opportunity. For applications and inquiries 011-781-1247 https://www.masyuko.or.jp/news/skycruise_2026/...

A special view of the sea in Japan that appears only in summer. In Higashi-Izu, Kawana, there is a special diving spot that can only be accessed during the summer. Its name is "Ubako Coral." Just three minutes from the port. The time spent heading out to sea on a small boat is also part of the joy of the journey. Once you enter the water, schools of fish greet you. Fish swimming around the reef transform the ocean view in every direction. Vibrant soft corals spread out, allowing you to not only watch the fish but also to slowly enjoy Japan's rich sea. Ubako Coral is available only until the end of August each year. It is a special view of the sea in Japan that you can encounter only in summer. There are still lesser-known seas in Japan. Why not encounter such views on your next trip?

This photo captures the peaceful beauty of Japan’s hidden gem — where the gentle breeze moves across the clear blue water, green forests surround the lake, and snow-capped mountains rise quietly in the background. A perfect moment where early summer and winter meet in harmony.

Fukoji Temple's Hydrangeas ❚ Blooming Status as of June 22, 2026 Fukoji Temple is located in Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. It is also famous as a sightseeing spot for hydrangeas. Currently, the hydrangeas are in full bloom. We will keep you updated on the blooming status. 【Location】Upper Ozuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture 【Access】About 10 minutes by car from JR Asaji Station 【Parking】Available (free) 【Restroom】Available ❚ Fukoji Temple The cliff-carved Buddha on the temple grounds stands about 11 meters tall, including its pedestal, making it one of the largest cliff-carved Buddhas in Japan. The central figure is Fudo Myoo (the Immovable Wisdom King). Fudo Myoo is typically depicted with an angry expression, but this cliff-carved Buddha has developed a round and gentle appearance over the years of exposure to the elements. Despite its large size, Fudo Myoo has a very approachable presence. Fukoji Temple is also known as "Hydrangea Temple" due to the numerous hydrangeas planted there. During the rainy season, visitors can enjoy the sight of many hydrangea flowers alongside the cliff-carved Buddha. The hydrangeas are cared for by the temple and the local community. ■■■ 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 sightseeing spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

[June 22 📍Shimoda Park] We have updated the hydrangea blooming status 💠✨ The hydrangeas at Shimoda Park have reached their peak season✨! Hydrangeas are blooming everywhere you look 👀 The hydrangea festival is ongoing until June 30th 💠 Please enjoy this breathtaking view while you can 😌 https://www.shimoda-city.info/post/20260622...

This is the Taushubetsu River Bridge in Kamishihoro Town, Hokkaido. It has a unique presence reminiscent of an ancient ruin. In the past, it was accessible freely, but now the gates are closed. You need to either reserve a key from the roadside station or join a tour from places like the Higashitaisetsu Nature Guide Centre to visit. You can park your car before the forest road gate and walk or bike there, but it's a rough 4-kilometer gravel road. Also, it's out of mobile service range, so there’s no way to contact anyone in case of trouble. Additionally, this area is a habitat for brown bears, so all actions are at your own risk. Every year, the bridge sinks into the lake after autumn and freezes in mid-winter, leading to weathering and collapse in various places. Some parts also crumbled during the spring earthquake. It won't be long before it can no longer maintain its complete arch.

Enoshima Okutsumiya Hanakairō Early morning in Enoshima. This is Okutsumiya Hanakairō, located in the innermost area of Enoshima. A pleasant sea breeze swayed the flowers, and sunlight began to filter through the still-dark forest. The pure white hydrangeas were illuminated by the spotlight, swaying and shining like the stars of the flower corridor.

Fukoji Temple's Hydrangeas ❚ Blooming Status as of June 17, 2026 Fukoji Temple, located in Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, is also famous as a tourist spot for hydrangeas. Currently, the hydrangeas are in full bloom. Some of the early-blooming flowers have started to wilt a bit. We will keep you updated on the blooming status. 【Location】Upper Oozuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture 【Access】About a 10-minute drive from JR Asaji Station 【Parking】Available (free) 【Restroom】Available ❚ Fukoji Temple The rock-carved Buddha in the temple grounds is approximately 11 meters tall, including its pedestal, making it one of the largest rock-carved Buddhas in Japan. The central figure is Fudo Myoo (Fudo Myo-o). Fudo Myoo is depicted with an angry expression, but this rock-carved Buddha has weathered the elements for many years and now has a round, gentle face. Although it is a large Fudo Myoo, it has a very friendly appearance. Fukoji Temple is also known as "Hydrangea Temple" due to the numerous hydrangeas planted there. During the rainy season, you can see many blooming hydrangeas alongside the rock-carved Buddha. The hydrangeas are cared for by the temple and the local community. ■■■ Access to the Center of Bungoono City ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour and 20-minute drive from JR Beppu Station in Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour and 20-minute drive from JR Yufuin Station in Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Tourism and Recommended Spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

【June 15📍Shimoda Park】 We have updated the hydrangea blooming status💠 Currently, the hydrangeas in the park are in full bloom! Today (6/15), the weather improved in the afternoon, making the hydrangeas even more beautiful🌿✨ Hydrangeas look great in natural light😌 You can find the latest blooming status and scenes from the park on our blog👇 https://www.shimoda-city.info/post/20260615...

Introduction to Tourist Attractions ❚ Karasudake Enkei Bunsui Located in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Karasudake Enkei Bunsui is a facility that conveys the history of water that has supported local life. The mountainous area of Ogata Town was once a place struggling to secure water. To solve this issue, a channel called "Haseoiro," approximately 22 kilometers long, was developed over many years. Karasudake Enkei Bunsui was established along this channel to fairly distribute essential water to fields and farms. Its unique circular structure is designed to divide water into specific ratios for different regions. This place not only offers beautiful scenery but also showcases the system that has supported people's lives and agriculture, making it a major highlight. *Water flows from June to about September each year. There is no water flow during other times, so please be cautious when planning your visit. Location: Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Kobara ■■Access from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture to the center of 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 tourist spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

From the summit of Mount Wagakuni, a breathtaking morning scene unfolds over Ibaraki. A sea of clouds completely blankets the towns below, creating a dreamlike landscape where the mountains appear to float above the sky. But if you look closely at the far right of the frame, you might notice a giant figure standing quietly above the clouds — and if I’m not mistaken, that silhouette is the famous Ushiku Daibutsu, watching over the horizon from afar. This is a hidden gem. Very few people know about this place. After I saw it I was astonished. Highly recommended hidden gem.

Breathless from the climb, Miyama Kirishima adorns the early summer landscape of the Mt. Kuju Range. It feels so good! Location: Hoshiozaki, Kusu District, Oita Prefecture

In the sweltering heat of the rainy season, I was drawn down into the valley by the sound of the clear stream and a cool breeze. Upon reaching the valley floor, I found myself in another world! Before me lay a fantastical landscape! At the information center at the valley entrance, I was informed that "Due to fallen trees and safety concerns, access to the upstream area leading to the Chockstone is currently prohibited." It was a bit disappointing, but there's always next time!! Location: Oita Prefecture, Yufu City

Nestled along the rugged coastline of Otaru, Hokkaido, stands the remarkable Sea Lion Rock, a lesser-known gem that remains largely undiscovered by international visitors. In winter, the surrounding waters become a gathering place for hundreds of Steller sea lions, creating a spectacular wildlife scene against the dramatic backdrop of the Sea of Japan. As the seasons change, summer brings flocks of black-tailed gulls that fill the skies and cliffs with life. Rising behind this iconic rock formation is the striking red-and-white Shukutsu Observatory, visible prominently above the coastline and extending toward the vast Sea of Japan. Together, the observatory, the wildlife, and the rugged seascape create a breathtaking panorama that captures the essence of northern Japan's natural beauty. While Otaru is often celebrated for its canals and historic streets, this hidden coastal viewpoint offers a different perspective—one where nature, history, and scenery converge.

[June 9] We have updated the hydrangea blooming status💠✨ Currently, they are 50% in bloom, but they will soon reach their peak! We are featuring the current state of the garden and the latest blooming status on our blog🫧 Please take a look for your outing reference. https://www.shimoda-city.info/post/20260609...

Crossing the Kanmon Straits from Mojiko, where the morning sun shines, to Shimonoseki A morning view of crossing the Kanmon Straits from Mojiko to Shimonoseki on a 5-minute boat ride Photo taken: April 3, 2026 Equipment: SONY α7II + FE24-240 Receiving the morning sun from behind Mojiko, overlooking the city of Karato in Shimonoseki across the strait A morning crossing of the Kanmon Straits on the Kanmon Ferry for 5 minutes The silhouette of the city of Mojiko recedes beyond the wake of the boat.

(2026-05-30) Chigasaki – Night view of bioluminescent plankton on the beach I received information about a massive red tide in Sagami Bay for the first time in nine years On Saturday, I took a whirlwind tour from Tokyo I appreciate my friend who kindly joined me despite the last-minute invitation m(__)m In the evening I passed through Zushi → Yuigahama → Shichirigahama → Enoshima → Chigasaki → Atami but there was no red tide (;'∀') Reluctantly, while trying to return to Tokyo via the reverse route I passed through Chigasaki and discovered a post about the bioluminescent plankton right there Amidst the confusion, I somehow found a parking lot and managed to take some photos (●´ω｀●) There were only one or two of these posts to find but already a huge number of people were flocking to the beach Everyone noticed it pretty quickly (;'∀') Although the photos aren't enough to say I've cleared the backlog of my life's captures I'm just glad it didn't end without getting any shots (〃´o｀)=3

Moji Port, where the remnants of the day dye the evening sky Photo taken: May 30, 2026 Equipment: SONY α7II + Sigma 20–200mm The silhouette of Mojiko city under the twilight sky remnants of the day twilight over Mojiko town