Harajiri Falls Boat Tour ❚ September 21-23, 2026 The Harajiri Falls Boat Tour will take place at Harajiri Falls in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. Experience the beauty of Harajiri Falls, often referred to as the Niagara of the East, up close on a raft boat. Enjoy a view from near the waterfall’s basin, offering a different perspective and thrilling experience. For those who want to feel the splashes of water, the Adventure Course is recommended, while those who prefer a leisurely view should choose the Scenic Course. Why not enjoy a moment closer to Harajiri Falls this autumn in Bungoono? 【Date】September 21 (Mon, Holiday), 22 (Tue), 23 (Wed, Holiday) ▶10:00 AM - 4:00 PM each day 【Location】Harajiri Falls (410 Harajiri, Ogata Town, Bungoono City) ▶Please arrive at the stairs leading down to the falls 30 minutes before your reservation time. 【Courses】Choose from the following two options ① Adventure Course (about 30 minutes) ¥4,000 per person *You will get wet. Please bring a change of clothes, water-friendly shoes, and a towel. A simple changing room will be provided. ② Scenic Course (about 15 minutes) ¥3,000 per person *You may get slightly wet from the splashes. 【Eligibility】Ages 3 and up (children must be accompanied by a guardian) 【Application】Please apply via the QR code on the flyer ■Additional Information The event may be canceled due to weather or river flooding. If there are openings on the day, we can accommodate without a reservation. Reservations for non-event times are also being accepted (please check the application form above for details). ■Inquiries about the event Moon Bridge Co., Ltd. × SOUTH WAVE (Contact: Ono) TEL 090-6896-5296 ■■Access from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture 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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■

The 39th Ontake-ryu Kagura Festival ❚ Held on October 25, 2026 The 39th Ontake-ryu Kagura Festival will take place at "Kagura no Sato Noba Park" in Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. The main feature, Ontake Kagura, is said to have begun with the establishment of Ontake Shrine in the first year of Hōtoku (1449). In 2007, it was designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property by the national government. On the day of the event, six groups from various locations in the prefecture, including Ontake Kagura, are scheduled to perform. Food and beverage stalls will also be available, allowing visitors to enjoy a relaxing day from morning. Parking near the venue is limited, but on the day of the event, a free shuttle bus will operate back and forth from Bungo-Kiyokawa Station to the Kagura Hall (which has parking) and then to Noba Park. Be sure to witness the traditional dance of Kagura that has been passed down through generations. 【Date】Sunday, October 25, 2026, starting at 8:45 AM 【Location】Kagura no Sato Noba Park (Udaeda, Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture) 【Performing Groups】 Ichinoya Riraku (Usuki City, Ichinoya) Ogata Sansha Kagura Preservation Society (Ogata-cho, Bungoono City) Jōhara Kagura Preservation Society (Takeda City, Jōhara) Takenaka Kagura Preservation Society (Yufu City, Shonai-cho) Kiyokawa Children’s Kagura Preservation Society (Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City) Ontake Kagura (Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City) 【Admission Fee】 Please pay at the entrance on the day of the event. ▶ Junior high school students and above: 500 yen (all seats unreserved) *Please refrain from reserving spots before the day of the event. 【Access to the Venue】 Parking near the venue is limited. A shuttle bus will operate from Bungo-Kiyokawa Station on the day, so please use it. 【Shuttle Bus (Free)】Operating back and forth between Bungo-Kiyokawa Station and the venue Bungo-Kiyokawa Station → via Kagura Hall (with parking) → Noba Park 【Inquiries about the Festival】 The 39th Ontake-ryu Kagura Festival Executive Committee (Kiyokawa Branch, Bungoono City Hall) TEL: 0974-35-2111 ■■Access from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture 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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Tourism and recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

JAF Kyushu Rally Championship Round 5 "EAST Kyushu 2026" ❚ Held on September 20, 2026 The "JAF Kyushu Rally Championship Round 5 (EAST Kyushu 2026)" will be held in Kiyokawamachi, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. This event features a rally competition covering approximately 145 km in the city, starting and finishing in Ogata Town, Bungoono City. It will take place from Saturday, September 19 to Sunday, September 20, with gallery seating available at Ontake Mountain Natural Park on the 20th, allowing spectators to watch up close. Experience the thrill as the competition vehicles rush past you. Gallery seating is limited to 100 vehicles and requires advance registration. The participation fee is 1,000 yen per person, while residents of Bungoono City and elementary school students can attend for free. Please bring identification that verifies your address and age on the day of the event. Once you enter the venue, you cannot leave until all competition vehicles have passed. Please prepare your drinks and other necessities in advance. Enjoy the excitement of the rally unfolding in the clear autumn air of Bungoono. *Please note that the service park for competition vehicles has been moved to the vacant lot next to Ogata Kodomoen (formerly Ogata Nursery School) near the Ogata Branch Office in Bungoono City.* *In case of rain, the Ogata Branch Office may serve as the service park.* *For more details, please contact the organizer.* 【Date】 Sunday, September 20, 2026 *Rain or shine* 【Gallery Venue】 Ontake Mountain Natural Park (Kiyokawamachi, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture) 【Fee】 1,000 yen per person *Free for residents of Bungoono City and elementary school students* 【Registration】 Advance registration required for 100 vehicles *Please register using the QR code on the flyer.* 【Contact】 Rally Club Oita 090-3602-2343 (Contact: Hayata) ■■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 tourist attractions and recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture (Bungoono City) ■■■■■■■■■■■■

This is Kokia at Hitachi Seaside Park. In autumn, the red Kokia spreads across the hills, moving those who see it.

The 58th Gosenkyo Festival in Ogata Town, Bungoono City ❚ Held on September 20, 2026 The Gosenkyo Festival will take place in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. This annual joint festival gathers portable shrines from within Ogata Town in one schoolyard. It aims to pray for a bountiful harvest and pass down the traditional culture inherited by the community to the next generation. At the venue, the Ogata Elementary School grounds, the portable shrines will be lined up neatly, accompanied by the sounds of drums, lion dances, and kagura performances, adding color to the festival. Among the highlights are the lion dance and the white bear, which are rarely seen up close on ordinary days, making this event unique. 【Date】Sunday, September 20, 2026 【Location】Ogata Elementary School Grounds (100 Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture) The event may be canceled or the content may change due to weather conditions. 【Event Schedule】 10:00 Lion Dance, White Bear, and Installation of Portable Shrines 11:30 Mikoshi Festival 12:00 Ogata Akatsuki Taiko 12:15 Okudake-ryu Uehata Lion Dance Club 12:30 Ogata Three Shrines Kagura, Ogata Children's Kagura 16:00 Return of the Portable Shrines 16:20 Lion Dance, White Bear 17:15 Return of the Portable Shrines *Start times may vary depending on the situation. ▶Simultaneous Event 13:30~ Children's Portable Shrine Procession 【Organizer & Contact】 Gosenkyo Festival Executive Committee Office, Ogata Branch Phone: 0974-42-2111 ■■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 tourist attractions and recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

"Wind chimes and mist" The refreshing sound of wind chimes resonates in the summer shrine grounds. The mist drifting through gently eases the hot air. The coolness felt through the ears and the coolness felt on the skin. This moment, unique to summer in Japan, has been captured in a single frame.

Even the shopkeeper cat is down. At Mamada Hachimangu Shrine, there are many "shrine cats." They have cat goshuin stamps and cat's one-grain-manifold protection charms. The shrine grounds are bathed in the summer sun. By the water fortune slips, even the shopkeeper cat seemed unable to withstand the heat. Stretching out on the stone pavement, it takes a moment to rest. This captures a slice of everyday life in Japan, amidst the summer heat.

The Bungo Inukai Fireworks Festival will be held at Ono River Riverside Park in Inukai Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. This fireworks festival, said to be the birthplace of Bungo fireworks, attracts many visitors every autumn. This year, about 3,000 fireworks will illuminate the night sky. The launch is scheduled for 7:20 PM, allowing attendees to enjoy the fireworks leisurely as the sun sets and the air begins to cool. There will be special paid viewing seats for the fireworks near the venue (2,000 yen per seat). Reservations are not accepted in advance; tickets will only be sold on the day of the event, so please be aware of this. The event is expected to be bustling with many visitors, and parking congestion is anticipated. Since the number of parking spaces is limited, if you plan to come by car, please arrive early. If possible, consider using public transportation as well. Join us for a night of autumn fireworks lighting up the sky in Inukai. 【Date and Time】 Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 7:20 PM for the fireworks launch. *Will proceed in light rain, canceled in inclement weather. 【Location】 Ono River Riverside Park (Inukai Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture) 【Fee】 Special paid viewing seat 2,000 yen per seat *No reservations; tickets sold only on the day. 【Access】 About a 10-minute walk from Inukai Station on JR; about a 2-minute walk from the Inukai Kuhara bus stop on Oita Bus. 【Parking】 Available *Limited spaces. 【Contact】 Bungo-Ono City Tourism Association TEL: 0974-27-4215 ■■Access from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture 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. ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing recommended spots for tourism in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

This photo was taken during my visit to Gero Onsen Gassho Village in Gifu Prefecture. More than 1,000 wind chimes were decorated near the entrance, and every time the wind blew, they all chimed together. I felt that wind chimes symbolize summer in Japan, and I wanted to capture that in a photograph. Rather than just photographing the wind chimes, I wanted to express it in my own way, so I took a shot through the wind chimes in the foreground, which created a sense of depth and slightly lowered the saturation of the overall photo, giving it a nostalgic atmosphere. I used the standard camera of the iPhone 17 for the shoot. Additionally, since I had only heard the sound of a single wind chime before, experiencing the sound of over 1,000 wind chimes chiming together was a first for me. I discovered that a single wind chime produces a delicate tone, but when gathered together, they create a powerful chorus-like sound, revealing a new charm of wind chimes.

This is a photo taken when my family visited Gero Onsen Gassho Village in Gifu Prefecture. While strolling around the grounds, I discovered a sign leading to an observation deck and became curious about what kind of view I would see, so I climbed up. What I saw there was a landscape filled with mountains, trees, blue skies, and clouds. Since I usually see bustling cityscapes with buildings and many people, encountering a scene where there were no people at all and only nature spread out felt nostalgic, allowing me to experience the beauty of untouched nature. Additionally, before the COVID-19 pandemic, my family used to travel to the mountains every summer, but since then, we haven't had many opportunities to go. The moment I saw this view, memories of summer trips with my family during my childhood flooded back, and I realized that the landscapes of mountains and skies hold a special place in reminding me of our summer family vacations.

This is a view of the flower water basin at Obihiro Shrine in Obihiro City, Hokkaido. On the night of the 14th, LED lights in the water were illuminated, providing visitors with enjoyment as part of the "Evening Flower Water Basin."

Gentazakura This is an Edohigan cherry tree estimated to be 300 years old, located on a mountain path known as "Sakura Sanri." There are two trees with diameters of 2.88m and 2.15m. They are designated as a natural monument by the city. The origin of the name "Gentazakura" comes from a story about Matsuyama han-shi Yano Goroemon Genta, who made prisoners plant cherry trees along the Nakayama River road. Unable to endure the harsh labor, one prisoner lamented, "Though the cherry blossoms bloom, it is Genta who punishes, and they will bear no fruit," which inspired the name. On Sundays in late March or early April, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the "Gentazakura Festival" is held, bustling with events like bazaars and rice cake throwing, attracting many tourists who come to catch a glimpse of the grand Edohigan cherry tree.

Tracing the River Town from Inukai Port: Ono River SUP Geo Tour ❚ Held on September 13, 2023 In the nature-rich Ono River in Inukai Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, the "Tracing the River Town from Inukai Port: Ono River SUP Geo Tour" will take place. This relaxed SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) tour allows you to rediscover the charm of the town from the water. Along the way, you will encounter local historical sites such as the remnants of Inukai Port, once a bustling logistics hub, and Nami-nori Jizō, highlighting the unique history of the river and life in the area. A land-based briefing will be conducted at the start of the tour, ensuring that even those new to SUP can participate with confidence. This experience is available for those in the fifth grade and above, making it a great outing for families and friends. Why not spend a special time feeling the pleasant river breeze? 【Date】 Sunday, September 13, 2023, Gathering at 9:30 AM / Scheduled to end at 12:30 PM 【Location】 Ono River Riverside Park Parking Lot (Inukai Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture) 【Fee】 4,000 yen (to be paid at the venue) 【Eligibility】 Fifth graders and above 【Capacity】 12 participants 【Application Deadline】 Sunday, September 6, 2023 【Notes】 The event will proceed in light rain; in case of severe weather, it will be postponed to Sunday, September 27. 【Contact】 Oita Bungoono Geo Park Promotion Council (TEL: 0974-22-4089) ■■Access from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture to the center of Bungoono City■■■ Approximately 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture Approximately 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing recommended spots for tourism in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Reiwa 8 Summer Special Exhibition "Bungo-Ono's Place of Learning" ❚ Until October 4, Reiwa 8 The Reiwa 8 Summer Special Exhibition "Bungo-Ono's Place of Learning" is being held at the Bungo-Ono City Museum Geopark Museum in Mie Town, Bungo-Ono City, Oita Prefecture. This exhibition allows you to explore the history of education in Bungo-Ono through historical materials carefully preserved at the museum from the Edo period to before World War II. In Reiwa 7, all elementary and junior high schools in the city became integrated schools, marking a new milestone in the community's education system. This exhibition invites you to reflect on the educational memories that have nurtured children at a time when the shape of schools is about to change significantly. 【Period】Until October 4 (Sunday), Reiwa 8 【Location】Bungo-Ono City Museum Geopark Museum (881 Uchida, Mie Town) 【Opening Hours】9 AM to 5 PM 【Closed】Mondays and holidays (September 21-23) 【Admission Fee】Free ■■Access from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture to the center of Bungo-Ono City■■■ Approximately 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture Approximately 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing tourist attractions and recommended spots in Bungo-Ono City, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

On August 14, 2026, the Komatsu Fire Festival was held in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. This fire festival, believed to have originated in the Edo period, is a traditional event dedicated to the memorial of the village headman who fell victim to a rebellion, as well as a prayer for abundant harvests. At 7:30 PM, the flames lit up the wide fields, slowly rising and creating a unique landscape of Ogata Town. It was a night that felt both lively and, in some way, serene. ■■Access to the center of Bungoono City from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture■■■ 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 sightseeing and recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

The 33rd Sugao Stone Buddha Fire Festival ❚ Held on August 23, 2026 The "Sugao Stone Buddha Fire Festival" will take place at Sugao Stone Buddha Front Square in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. Starting with sacred rituals and Buddhist ceremonies in the evening, the festival will be filled with exciting taiko performances, kagura, and torch throwing, creating a lively atmosphere as night falls. One of the highlights is the "Rooster Imitation Contest," inspired by local legends. Participants don handmade costumes (though costumes are not required) and showcase their unique performances imitating rooster sounds in a fun event. Enjoy the nostalgic and rich atmosphere of this fire festival at the venue. 【Date】Sunday, August 23, 2026 【Location】Sugao Stone Buddha Front Square (Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture) 【Parking】Parking is available in front of Sugao Elementary School (a free shuttle taxi will operate to the venue) 【Event Schedule】 15:00 Sacred rituals and Buddhist ceremonies 15:10 Oni Welcoming 15:20 Opening Ceremony and Mochi Throwing 15:30 Toyokai Taiko 16:00 Rooster Imitation Contest 17:00 Torch Throwing 18:00 Okubata Kagura 20:00 End ▶ Rooster Imitation Contest Participants Wanted 【Participation Fee】Free (Participation prizes available) 【Application Deadline】Thursday, August 20, 2026 【Prizes】1st place: 30,000 yen; 2nd place: 20,000 yen; 3rd place: 10,000 yen in gift certificates 【Additional Prize】Roadside Station Mie gift certificate Applications can be made through the Sugao Regional Promotion Council 【Organizer and Contact Information】 Sugao Regional Promotion Council TEL: 090-7455-4739 ❚ What is the Sugao Stone Buddha Fire Festival? It is organized by local residents to promote regional revitalization and raise awareness of the Sugao rock-carved Buddha. The "Rooster Imitation Contest" is based on local legends. According to the legend, an oni (demon) that had settled in the area demanded, "Give me a village girl as a bride!" The troubled village chief consulted a monk, who told the oni, "If you carve five stone Buddhas into the cliff in one night, I will give you a daughter as a bride; if not, you must leave the village." Concerned villagers went to check at night and found the oni carving the fifth statue. They had the village's rooster imitation master imitate a rooster's crow, tricking the oni into thinking it was morning, causing it to flee. ■■ Access from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture 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 tourist attractions and recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

This is the "Yanai Goldfish Lantern Festival" in Yanai City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. Cute "Kingyo Chochin" lanterns decorate the street corners, creating a fantastical atmosphere with the soft light spilling from the lanterns. On the other hand, during the "Bakusō Neputa" on August 13th, the adorable "Kingyo Neputa" transforms and performs a wild and frenzied run. (laughs)

Summer settled over the village like a green silence. The mountains slept beneath the endless blue sky, while cicadas sang from the trees as if they had been singing there forever. Bright flowers bloomed along an empty roadside, leading somewhere unknown. A lazy afternoon, a gentle breeze, and the delicate sound of wind chimes drifting through Okutama made this summer feel a little more magical.

The "Suhōten Festival" at Iminomiya Shrine, known as "the extraordinary festival of the world," boasts a history of over 1,800 years. Men carry bamboo poles that can reach up to 30 meters in length and weigh over 100 kilograms! Everyone, be careful not to knock over the bamboo, "Total Concentration: Bamboo Breathing!" Filming location: Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture.

Oita Bungoono Outing Information ❚ Inazumi Underwater Cave Sightseeing Boat At the Inazumi Underwater Cave in Mie Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, you can enjoy an experience of an underwater cave and firefly river sightseeing boat. The cave maintains a temperature of about 16°C throughout the year. A serene atmosphere allows you to leave the summer heat behind and feel the charm of the cave submerged in water. The Inazumi Underwater Cave is said to have formed over approximately 200 million years and was submerged during the great eruption of Mt. Aso around 85,000 years ago. You can slowly enjoy the depth that cannot be touched just by walking around, from the comfort of the boat. The sightseeing boat moves under the guidance of staff, taking about 10 minutes. While listening to the formation and highlights of the cave, you will explore the interior from the water's surface perspective. Why not try experiencing the quiet time spread across the bottom of the cave? 【Location】Inazumi Underwater Cave (300 Nakatsuduru, Mie Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture) 【Fee】Sightseeing boat 2,500 yen (additional entrance fee required) 【Capacity】3 adults 【Access】About 60 minutes by car from Mera Interchange on the Ōita Expressway About 20 minutes by car from Mie Town Station on the JR Hōhi Main Line 【Parking】Available 【Contact】Inazumi Underwater Cave TEL: 0974-26-2468 【Notes】No need to change clothes. Please check the operation status in advance on the day. ■■Access from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture 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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■

The 8th Bungo Buono Station Front Marche ❚ Held on August 22, 2026 Enjoy the "delicious" and "wonderful" offerings of Bungo-Ono to the fullest at this marche! The "8th Station Front Marche" will take place at Mie Town Station Square. The venue will feature food booths offering coffee, sweets, and light meals, as well as fun booths including a game corner, free ride experiences, and a light truck sauna. Stage events will include taiko drumming, kagura performances, hula, and kids' dance. At the end of the event, there will be a lottery and mochi throwing. Enjoy a delightful evening from summer dusk to night with food, sights, and fun at the venue. 【Date】Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM, held rain or shine *The event may be canceled in case of severe weather. Please check the event's website after 3:00 PM the day before for confirmation of the event. 【Venue】Mie Town Station Square (2998-2 Akamine, Mie Town, Bungo-Ono City, Oita Prefecture) ■Stage Events 5:00 PM – 5:10 PM Opening Ceremony & First Mochi Throwing 5:15 PM – 5:35 PM Saijō-ji Children's Taiko 5:40 PM – 6:00 PM ALOHA Ukulele 6:10 PM – 6:40 PM Itaizako Shinmeisha Shrine Kagura 6:50 PM – 7:10 PM Daishin Taiko 7:20 PM – 7:40 PM Ohana Hula 7:45 PM – 8:15 PM Kids Dance "ROⓂD" 8:20 PM – 8:30 PM Lottery & Closing Ceremony & Second Mochi Throwing ■Fun Booths Night Market Corner (Game Corner) Free Ride Experience Light Truck Sauna (No need to bring anything) ■Venue Booths Cafe Param Antiques Imo no Chikara-ya Vintage Clothing Disco Nikoniko Chiffon Gochisou Kumogakure Melissa Cafe Nagomi Coffee Toko's Kitchen Pizza Buono *Even if the stage is canceled due to rain, food booths may still operate at the venue. ■Other Please note that the content listed may change due to unavoidable circumstances. Parking is available at the Bungo-Ono City Chamber of Commerce, Oita Bank, and Bungo-Ono City Hall. Due to expected congestion and full parking, we encourage the use of public transportation or walking to the venue. For accessible parking, please speak to the staff at the venue. ■Contact Information Bungo-Ono City Tourism Association TEL: 0974-27-4215 ■■Access from Fukuoka and Kumamoto to the center of Bungo-Ono City■■■ Approximately 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station in Fukuoka Approximately 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station in Oita Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station in Oita ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing tourist attractions and recommended spots in Bungo-Ono City, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Tourist Spot Introduction ❚ Bungo-Ono City Museum Geopark Museum Located in Mie Town, Bungo-Ono City, Oita Prefecture, the "Bungo-Ono City Museum Geopark Museum" was renovated in July 2021. This facility serves as the base for the "Oita Bungo-Ono Geopark," showcasing the landscape of Bungo-Ono, shaped by the massive eruption of Mt. Aso approximately 90,000 years ago, along with the nature, lifestyle, and culture that have developed on it, presented gently through the museum's exhibits. The displays, including drone footage and three-dimensional terrain models, are designed to be enjoyable to watch, making it a perfect place to stop by for a break along your sightseeing route. Both adults and children can discover the charm of Bungo-Ono at their own pace. It is the first spot you want to visit when you feel like learning a little more about the town. ■■Bungo-Ono City Museum Geopark Museum 【Location】881 Uchida, Mie Town, Bungo-Ono City, Oita Prefecture About a 40-minute drive from Oita Mera IC 【Opening Hours】9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM) 【Closed】Mondays, national holidays, and during the New Year holidays (December 29 - January 4) 【Admission Fee】Free 【Parking】Available ■■Access from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture to the center of Bungo-Ono 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 in Kyushu, Bungo-Ono City, Oita Prefecture Recommended spots introduction ■■■■■■■■■■■■

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 / 500 yen for junior high school students and younger (Both will increase by 500 yen on the day) *Tickets can be reserved in advance or purchased on the day. 【Contact】Kagura Hall TEL 0974-35-2372 ❚ August Public Performance 【Date】Sunday, August 16, 2026, 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM 【Performing Groups】Asakusa-ryu Matsuo Kagura, Okakura Kagura Society 【Reservation Start Date】From June 16, 2026 ❚ August Independent Performance 【Date】Sunday, August 22, 2026, 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM 【Performing Groups】Taketa High School Gagyu Kagura Aikōkai Club, Yufu High School Local Performing Arts Club 【Reservation Start Date】From June 22, 2026 【Admission Fee】General 800 yen, 500 yen for junior high school students and younger (same price for advance and day of) ❚ September Public Performance 【Date】Sunday, September 20, 2026, 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM 【Performing Groups】Asakusa Inuyama Kagurasha Troupe, Shonai Baru Kagura Preservation Society 【Reservation Start Date】From July 20, 2026 ❚ October Public Performance 【Date】Sunday, October 18, 2026, 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM 【Performing Groups】Shibayama Riraku, an affiliated organization of Shibayama Hachimansha Shrine, Takenaka Kagura Preservation Society 【Reservation Start Date】From August 18, 2026 ❚ November Public Performance 【Date】Sunday, November 15, 2026, 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM 【Performing Groups】Ontake Kagura 【Reservation Start Date】From September 15, 2026 For more details, please check the "Kagura Hall" website. ■■Access from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture 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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■ Introducing tourist attractions and recommended spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

As the golden hour gently embraces Furano, waves of lavender bloom beneath a sky of fading light. A solitary red hut rests among the purple fields, with emerald meadows and layered mountains quietly unfolding beyond. In this brief summer glow, the landscape feels less like a place and more like a memory waiting to be kept.

The Yamaguchi Tanabata Chochin Festival has been held for about 600 years. Tens of thousands of red lanterns attached to bamboo sway gently, enveloping the streets in a fantastical light. What’s surprising is that all these countless lanterns are lit by real candle flames! Unlike electric lights, they flicker softly, gently illuminating the town. Please come to Yamaguchi! Location: Yamaguchi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture

The Yamaguchi Tanabata Lantern Festival has been held for about 600 years. Tens of thousands of red lanterns attached to bamboo sway gently, enveloping the streets in a magical light. What’s surprising is that all these countless lanterns are lit by real candle flames! Unlike electric lights, they flicker softly, illuminating the town gently. We warmly invite you to visit Yamaguchi! Location: Yamaguchi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture

The Summer Garden at Tokachi Hills in Makubetsucho, Hokkaido. The main display features a tunnel of colorful inflatable rings. The shadows reflecting on the ground on a sunny day were also beautiful.

Title: A Wish Come True This photo was taken at the Wind Chime Festival held at Sagi Shrine in Hiroshima Prefecture. I was struck by the sight of one wind chime missing its strip of paper, and with its cool sound, I thought perhaps the wish of this wind chime had come true.

Harajiri Falls Boat Tour ❚ August 12-16, 2026 The Harajiri Falls Boat Tour will be held at Harajiri Falls in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture. Experience the beauty of Harajiri Falls, known as the Niagara of the East, up close in a raft boat this summer. The view from near the waterfall offers a unique perspective, showcasing the impressive scenery that can only be enjoyed during this time of year. For those wanting to enjoy the splashes of water, the Adventure Course is recommended, while those who prefer a leisurely view can opt for the Scenic Course. Why not enjoy a moment closer to Harajiri Falls this summer in Bungoono? 【Date】August 12 (Wed), 13 (Thu), 14 (Fri), 15 (Sat), 16 (Sun), 2026 ▶Each day from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM 【Location】Harajiri Falls (410 Harajiri, Ogata Town, Bungoono City) ▶Please arrive at the stairs leading down to the falls 30 minutes before your reservation time. 【Courses】You can choose from the following two options ①Adventure Course (approximately 30 minutes) ¥4,000 per person *You will get wet. Please bring a change of clothes, shoes that can get wet, and a towel. A simple changing room will be provided. ②Scenic Course (approximately 15 minutes) ¥3,000 per person *You will get slightly wet from the splashes of water. 【Eligibility】Ages 3 and up (children must be accompanied by a guardian) 【Application】Please apply using the QR code on the flyer ■Other Information The event may be canceled due to weather conditions or river flooding. If there are openings on the day, we can also accommodate walk-ins without reservations. Reservations for non-event times are also accepted at any time (please check the application form above for details). ■Inquiries about the event Moon Bridge Co., Ltd. × South Wave (Contact: Ono) TEL 090-6896-5296

Every culture has its own special season for fireworks. In many parts of the Western world, winter brings the sparkle of fireworks, while in the part of Asia where I come from, autumn is illuminated by the lights of Diwali. But when I came to Japan, I discovered something beautifully different—**summer has a special place for fireworks here.** The sight of people in traditional yukata, enjoying taiyaki, gathering with friends and family, and waiting for the night sky to burst into a grand display of *hanabi* feels uniquely Japanese. The warmth of the summer evening, the laughter around me, and the vivid colors blooming across the sky create memories that stay long after the last firework fades. This photograph captures the **Toda Fireworks Festival**, taken this year from my rooftop—a summer night I will never forget.