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.

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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■

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・・・

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.

Summer in Kyoto Can Be Intense – Take a Break and Enjoy Traditional Japanese Play at AriHana Kyoto Kyoto’s rainy season has already ended, and the city is now experiencing very hot summer days. July is also the season of the famous Gion Festival, one of Kyoto’s most iconic summer events. As the festival begins and the Yoiyama evenings start from July 14, the city becomes even more lively and crowded with visitors. When families visit Kyoto in summer, we often hear comments like, “It’s much hotter than we expected,” or “Everywhere is crowded. Is there a quieter place where we can relax with children?” We truly understand how challenging summer sightseeing in Kyoto can be, especially for families traveling with young children. That is one of the reasons we opened AriHana Kyoto. AriHana Kyoto is an indoor family-friendly space where children and parents can relax and enjoy traditional Japanese play together. Families from many different countries have visited us and spent time playing freely, discovering Japanese culture through simple, nostalgic games. Here, you can enjoy traditional Japanese activities such as kendama, daruma otoshi, karuta, and more in a calm and comfortable tatami room. Children can play, parents can sit back and relax, and families can spend unhurried time together away from the summer heat and crowds. If you are looking for a quiet indoor place to rest and create special family memories during your Kyoto trip, we would be delighted to welcome you to AriHana Kyoto. Why not add a different kind of Kyoto memory to your journey this summer?

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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■

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 ■■■■■■■■■■■■

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.

The five-day, four-night trip to Tokyo has come to an end. This time, I will share my travel tips for Tokyo【Personal Sharing】 Day 1 | Arrival in Tokyo and Asakusa Exploration Time Itinerary Morning Arrival in Tokyo → Check into the hotel Afternoon Senso-ji → Kaminari Mon → Nakamise Shopping Street Evening Tokyo Skytree → Skytree Night View → Izakaya 🏨 Accommodation Suggestions Shinjuku / Ikebukuro / Ueno Day 2 | Harajuku, Omotesando, and Shibuya Time Itinerary Morning Meiji Shrine → Yoyogi Park Afternoon Harajuku Takeshita Street → Omotesando → Cat Street Evening Shibuya Scramble Crossing → SHIBUYA SKY 🍜 Recommended Cuisine Yakiniku, Sushi, Izakaya 🏨 Accommodation Suggestions Shinjuku / Shibuya Day 3 | Akihabara, Ginza, and Fuyadani Experience Time Itinerary Morning Akihabara Electric Town → Animate Afternoon Ginza Chuo-dori → Department Store Shopping Evening Fuyadani Club Experience 1 🌸 Fuyadani Club Experience 1 🌸 20:00 - 23:00 🏨 Accommodation Suggestions Ginza / Shinbashi / Ikebukuro Day 4 | Day Trip to Hakone Onsen Time Itinerary Morning Hakone-Yumoto → Mountain Railway Afternoon Ōwakudani → Lake Ashi Boat Ride → Hakone Shrine Evening Return to Tokyo → Fuyadani Club Experience 2 🌸 Fuyadani Club Experience 2 🌸 21:00 - 00:00 🏨 Accommodation Suggestions Shinjuku / Ikebukuro Day 5 | Shopping in Shinjuku and Return Time Itinerary Morning Shinjuku Gyoen Afternoon Don Quixote → Bic Camera → Drugstore Evening Fuyadani Club Experience 3 → Return to the hotel to pack 🌸 Fuyadani Club Experience 3 🌸 19:30 - 23:30 As the last night itinerary in Tokyo Must-try Foods in Tokyo 🍣 Sushi 🍜 Ramen 🥩 Wagyu Yakiniku 🍢 Izakaya Skewers 🍰 Japanese Sweets 🐟 Seafood Rice Bowl Transportation Recommendations in Tokyo 🚇 Suica / PASMO 🚄 JR Yamanote Line 🚇 Tokyo Metro ✈️ Narita Skyliner ✈️ Haneda Keikyu Line

On June 14th (Sunday), the "Mikata Goko Future Conference" will be held! Tourist destinations that attract people from around the world are always inhabited by those who love and take pride in their land. With the theme of "Creating a Region Chosen by the World," we invite Hiroshi Mizobata, a leading figure in the Osaka-Kansai Expo and inbound tourism, to explore the potential of Mikata Goko that can compete globally, while re-examining the value (treasures) of Mikata Goko from a global perspective and envisioning the next future together with everyone. Overview of the Mikata Goko Future Conference Date: June 14, 2026 (Sunday) Time: 13:30 - 16:00 (Doors open at 13:00) Venue: Mihama Town Lifelong Learning Center Nabiasu (29-3 Gōichi, Mihama Town, Mikata District, Fukui Prefecture) Participation Fee: Free Application: Not required Organized by: Mikata Goko Wide Area Tourism Council Co-organized by: Mihama Town, Wakasa Town Event Details [Part 1] Keynote Speech When the region gets excited, the world moves! ~ The energy and humanity of the region to become a "Chosen Tourist Destination" ~ Hiroshi Mizobata, Chairman of the Osaka Tourism Bureau (Former Commissioner of the Japan Tourism Agency) [Part 2] Panel Discussion Rediscovering the 'Value' of Mikata Goko from the World ~ The life we enjoy is a value we can proudly present to the world ~ <Panelists> Hiroshi Mizobata, Chairman of the Osaka Tourism Bureau Tomohide Tanaka, Director of the Tourism Region Promotion Division, Japan Tourism Agency Yoshikazu Tanaka, General Manager of the Osaka Tourism Bureau Mitsuru Hayashida, CEO of Rainbow Line Co., Ltd. Julian Giri, CEO of TARGET JAMM Co., Ltd. Katsuyuki Oka, CEO of Okasamiya Co., Ltd. <Facilitator> Masaki Yamashita, Fellow at JTB Corporation Research Institute https://www.town.fukui-mihama.lg.jp/soshiki/11/16289.html...

Hakusan River Fireflies ❚ Status of Fireflies as of May 29, 2026 Every year, many visitors come to Hakusan River to see the fireflies. Fireflies are flying around Hakusan River. They can also be seen near the Inazumi Water Cave and Hoge Rock. They are expected to be at their best from this weekend into next week. Since low temperatures can lead to fewer fireflies, it's a good idea to aim for temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius. 【Location】Mie Town, Bungoono City ■■Access to the center of Bungoono City from Fukuoka Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture■■■ 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, Kyushu ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Introducing the new tourism hub in Nagano City, "Travel HUB Nagano City"✨ 〈Don't forget to tap the "save mark" if you want to revisit this later!〉 "Travel HUB Nagano City" While continuing services such as luggage storage, tourism information, and tour sales introduced during the winter season, we will sequentially launch new offerings including kimono rentals and sales, a select shop for Shinshu ice cream called "Tabisuru Spoon," café services, authentic ninja experiences, taxi tours, and outdoor activity sales. This will serve as a new gateway for tourists, visitors, and local residents, starting from in front of Nagano Station. "Tabisuru Spoon" This is a select shop where you can discover delightful ice creams from various regions of Shinshu. We offer cup ice cream from local producers throughout the prefecture, based on the concept "A journey through Shinshu begins with a single spoon." We plan to rotate the products based on the season and availability. "Kimono and Yukata Rental and Sales - Kimono no Tachibana" In collaboration with "Kimono no Tachibana," a beloved establishment in Nagano Prefecture for many years, we have started renting and selling kimonos and yukatas. You can enjoy visiting Zenkoji Temple and strolling around Nagano City in traditional attire. "Luggage Storage" You can store your bags and suitcases before checking into your hotel or while sightseeing in the city. We can accommodate large luggage that doesn't fit in coin lockers. Leave your bags at Travel HUB Nagano City and enjoy sightseeing hands-free right after your arrival. 【Bag Size】 ¥500/1 day For items with a maximum side under 45cm (backpacks, handbags, personal items, etc.) 【Suitcase Size】 ¥800/1 day For items with a maximum side of 45cm or more (suitcases, skis, snowboards, musical instruments, strollers, etc.) "Experience Activities" We offer experience programs such as authentic shuriken throwing. Enjoy easy-to-try activities and unique programs that are hard to find elsewhere. 【Usage Fee】 ¥1,000 (approximately 10 minutes) "Basic Information" 【Location】1358 Suehirocho, Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture, 2F 【Access】About 2 minutes on foot from the Zenkoji Exit of JR Nagano Station 【Business Hours】9:30 AM - 5:00 PM 【Closed】None 【Parking】None (Please use nearby paid parking) #Travel HUB Nagano City #Nagano City #Inbound #Nagano City #Nagano Tourism

The Ultimate Guide for First-Timers in Osaka: 5 Days and 4 Nights 🔥 ✈️ Arriving on a 7 AM flight; an all-inclusive experience of food, fun, and entertainment ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 📌 Basic Information 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations ▪️ Namba / Shinsaibashi Area (Convenient transportation and late-night shopping) ✈️ Arrival Time ▪️ Landing at Kansai Airport at 07:00 🚃 Transportation Recommendations ▪️ Osaka Amazing Pass ▪️ Combination of subway and JR ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🗓 Day 1 | Arriving in Osaka, Shinsaibashi, Dōtonbori 07:00 ✈️ Flight arrives at Kansai International Airport Complete immigration and collect luggage 08:30 🚆 Take the Nankai Electric Railway to Namba 09:30 🏨 Arrive at the hotel and drop off luggage 10:30 🛍 Stroll through Shinsaibashi Shopping Street ▪️ Drugstores ▪️ Trendy fashion brands ▪️ Souvenirs 12:30 🍱 Lunch Recommendations ▪️ Unagi rice ▪️ Japanese set meal 14:00 📸 Walk along the Dōtonbori riverside ▪️ Snap a photo with iconic signs ▪️ Take a picture with the Glico Man sign 16:00 🚶 Stroll around the nearby area Experience the atmosphere of Osaka 18:00 🍢 Dinner Recommendations ▪️ Okonomiyaki ▪️ Takoyaki ▪️ Classic kushikatsu 20:00 🛒 Visit Don Quijote duty-free store Shop for snacks, cosmetics, and daily necessities 21:30 🏨 Return to the hotel to rest 22:30 🌃 Experience the nightlife at the club ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🗓 Day 2 | A Day Trip to USJ (Universal Studios Japan) 07:00 🌅 Early start to head to USJ 07:30 🚉 Arrive at the park and queue for entry 08:00 🎢 Enter the park on time Priority rides: ▪️ The Wizarding World of Harry Potter ▪️ Super Nintendo World 12:00 🍔 Lunch inside the park ▪️ Three Broomsticks Restaurant ▪️ Light snacks 13:30 🎮 Continue enjoying popular attractions ▪️ Jurassic Park ▪️ Super Nintendo World ▪️ Minion Park 16:00 🛍 Shop at the park stores Buy souvenirs and take photos 17:00 ✨ Enjoy the night parade and light show 19:00 🚆 Leave the park and return to the city 20:00 🍢 Dinner Recommendations ▪️ Kushikatsu from a famous shop in Shinsekai 21:30 🌃 Experience the nightlife at the club ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🗓 Day 3 | Osaka Castle, Kuromon Ichiba, Umeda Night View 09:00 🏯 Visit Osaka Castle Park ▪️ Tour the main keep ▪️ Stroll through the Japanese garden 12:00 🍣 Lunch Recommendations ▪️ Sushi ▪️ Wagyu set meal ▪️ Japanese pork cutlet 13:30 🐟 Food tour at Kuromon Ichiba Market ▪️ Sashimi ▪️ Seafood sushi ▪️ Grilled seafood ▪️ Seasonal fruits 15:30 🎡 Head to the Shinsekai area ▪️ Tsutenkaku Tower ▪️ Retro shopping street 18:00 🌆 Visit the Umeda Sky Building observation deck 19:30 🥩 Dinner Recommendations ▪️ Wagyu barbecue ▪️ Green onion grill 21:00 🌃 Enjoy the night view of Osaka 22:30 🍸 Experience the nightlife at the club ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🗓 Day 4 | Tennoji, Kaiyukan, Osaka Port 09:00 ⛩ Visit Shitennoji ▪️ Worship at the ancient temple ▪️ Stroll through the Japanese garden 11:30 🍜 Lunch Recommendations ▪️ Soba noodles ▪️ Japanese light meal 13:30 🌊 Head to Osaka Port 14:00 🐋 Visit Kaiyukan Aquarium 16:00 🎡 Ride the Tempozan Ferris Wheel Enjoy the view of Osaka Port 18:00 🌅 Stroll along Osaka Port Enjoy the sunset view 19:00 🦀 Dinner Recommendations ▪️ Seafood izakaya ▪️ Grilled fish dishes ▪️ Seafood rice bowl 21:00 🏨 Return to the hotel to rest ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🗓 Day 5 | Umeda Shopping and Return Home 09:00 🧳 Check out of the hotel Store luggage 09:30 🛍 Shopping in Umeda Department Store District ▪️ Souvenirs ▪️ Snacks ▪️ Desserts 12:00 🍜 Lunch Recommendations ▪️ Osaka-style ramen ▪️ Japanese snacks 14:00 🏨 Return to the hotel to collect luggage 14:30 🚆 Take the Nankai Electric Railway to Kansai Airport 16:00 ✈️ Complete tax refund and last shopping at duty-free 17:30 🛫 Board the flight home End of the 5 days and 4 nights in Osaka ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🍜 Must-Try Food List in Osaka 📍Dōtonbori ▪️ Takoyaki ▪️ Okonomiyaki ▪️ Kushikatsu ▪️ Tonkotsu ramen 📍Kuromon Ichiba ▪️ Sashimi ▪️ Seafood sushi ▪️ Grilled scallops ▪️ Fresh-cut fruits 📍Shinsekai ▪️ Famous kushikatsu ▪️ Japanese fried foods 📍Umeda Area ▪️ Wagyu sukiyaki ▪️ Omi beef set meal ▪️ Japanese desserts 📍Street Snacks ▪️ Crepes ▪️ Taiyaki ▪️ Japanese shaved ice ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 💡 Useful Tips 🚇 Subway and buses are the main transportation It is recommended to charge your IC card in advance 🎢 Arrive early at USJ There are many people queuing for popular attractions 🍱 Many shops in Japan close earlier at night It is advisable not to have dinner too late 🛂 Remember to bring your passport for duty-free shopping This makes it easier to process tax refunds 🤭

🌲Akaezomatsu Forest Trail🌲 I recently took a stroll through Akaezomatsu Forest‼︎ This is one of the recommended spots to visit in the upcoming season✨ ___________________________ The trail behind Kawayu Visitor Center (@kawayu_vc) is an easily accessible, authentic forest where you can observe the rare Akaezomatsu and Todomatsu trees found in Japan. You can also request a 20 to 30-minute guided tour from the facility staff✨ Especially during this season (from early June to around July), it's recommended to see the clusters of Gozen Tachibana as they transform from white flowers to red berries. At the second-floor café (@cafesoftwood), you can enjoy meals and tea, making the most of your visit to Kawayu Visitor Center☕️🌿 _________________________________ Kawayu - Akaezomatsu Forest Located in Akan-Mashu National Park, Kawayu Onsen spreads at the foot of Mt. Io. This pure forest consists of Akaezomatsu trees that are about 200 years old. The acidic soil, covered in volcanic ash, creates a harsh environment for plants. The representative conifer of Hokkaido, Akaezomatsu, thrives here. Trees around 20 meters tall stretch endlessly, and the forest floor is covered with clusters of Gozen Tachibana. The patterns, scents, and sounds created by the limited plants enhance the charm of this mystical forest as you experience it. (Source: Akaezomatsu Forest Guide Map)

🌸🌸 Spring Kushiro Sightseeing Bus Tour [Sakura Edition] 🌸🌸 We are recruiting participants for a bus tour that explores the double-flowered cherry blossom "Kushiro Yaezakura" which originated in Kushiro.☺ Selected by Mr. Inazawa Rokuro, who was engaged in landscaping in Kushiro, this double-flowering variety was registered in 1981. The petals are layered beautifully, making it a very charming cherry blossom. We will visit notable spots in the city and enjoy a tour-exclusive bento at Yanagimachi Park, the venue for the "Kushiro Sakura Matsuri." Please come and enjoy the Kushiro Yaezakura in Kushiro, the final stop of the cherry blossom front in eastern Hokkaido!✨ Date: Saturday, May 16th, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Capacity: 30 people Participation fee: 6,500 yen (tax included) *Please pay in cash on the day. ・Children the same fee Meeting place: KKS Convention Center (Kushiro City Tourism and International Exchange Center) 　　　Gather at 8:50 AM For detailed information and applications, please check the official Kushiro and Akanko tourism website. *Please confirm via the link in the profile section. https://ja.kushiro-lakeakan.com/overview/20909/...

On April 10th, we announced the 'Wakoto Area Beach Clean-Up Activity' on social media. We recently received a report confirming that the beach clean-up around Wakoto was successfully completed! It seems that some participants joined after seeing the post from 'Teshikaga Navi'✨ That's great! May many people safely enjoy the beautiful Wakin Peninsula this year as well🧹🧼

🍶Enjoying Junmai Warm Sake Event in Kawayu Onsen🍶 The Enjoying Junmai Warm Sake Event in Kawayu Onsen will be held on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at the Kawayu Kanko Hotel Convention Hall, Laputa. Many famous sake breweries will gather for this event to enjoy junmai warm sake. The fee is 7,500 yen per person, and ticket sales will end on June 13. It is said that sales will conclude once the capacity is reached, even before the deadline, so please act quickly! 🍶✨ Hot springs, warm sake, and delicious food. That's why Kawayu is irresistible. 【Enjoying Junmai Warm Sake Event in Kawayu Onsen】 Date and Time Sunday, June 21, 2026 17:20 - Registration / 17:45 - Doors Open / 18:00 - Start / 20:00 - End (tentative) Venue Kawayu Kanko Hotel Convention Hall, Laputa 1-2-30 Kawayu Onsen, Teshikaga-cho, Kawakami-gun Tickets ¥7,500 (tax included) per person, all seated / half buffet style *Advance tickets only *Due to preparations, there will be no tickets available on the day of the event. Participating Breweries ⚫︎Kamikawa Taisetsu Sake Brewery (Kamikawa-cho) 《Kamikawa・Tokachi》 ⚫︎Fukutsukasa Sake Brewery (Kushiro City) 《Fukutsukasa・Goshikisai Cloud》 ⚫︎Sakai Shuzo (Yamaguchi Prefecture) 《Gohashi・NOTEN》 ⚫︎Hatashuzou (Shiga Prefecture) 《Daijiro》 ⚫︎Henmi Shuzo (Niigata Prefecture) 《Maaya・Itaru》 ⚫︎Moriki Shuzō (Mie Prefecture) 《Rumiko's Sake》 *Please note that participating breweries and their representatives may change. Ticket Purchase and Inquiries Kawayu Sake Association, Nishizawa Shoten Co., Ltd. Contact: Kaneko Phone Number: 015-483-2347 Email: kin311@aurora.ocn.ne.jp Check the flyer QR code image for temporary information and details!

[2026 Announcement of Akanko Lake Opening] The "Akanko Lake Opening" event, marking the beginning of the green season tourism at Lake Akanko, will be held on Wednesday, April 29th. There will be a brass band performance by the Akanko Compulsory Education School's wind ensemble, a tourism safety prayer ceremony, and a presentation of local specialties from Lake Akanko.

With the start of the new fiscal year, let me introduce how we at the tourism association provide information!

Notice of Cruise Ship Arrival🚢 The cruise ship "Westerdam" is coming to Kushiro! Passengers will disembark and enjoy sightseeing in Kushiro. We hope that all citizens will warmly welcome them with a friendly atmosphere😊 As the ship departs, there will be a drum performance by "Kotobuki Kodomo Ezo Taiko" to send them off👋 We look forward to everyone's participation✨ *Parking available for general visitors Date: Tuesday, April 28, Year R8 Arrival: 8:00 AM Departure: 5:00 PM Location: Kushiro Port West No.4 Pier East Side Seawall Local product stalls open from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM Send-off around 4:30 PM #Cruise Ship #Westerdam

On April 17, 2026, the Lake Mashu Safety Prayer Festival was held at Lake Mashu Kamuy Terrace, and at the same time, the drive course connecting Lake Mashu First Observatory and Mt. Io, known as the Mashu Lake Iozan Sky Road, was opened🚙🐾 It seems that flags, as shown in the photos, are also on sale at Lake Mashu Kamuy Terrace🚩 The view from the Mashu Lake Lounge within Lake Mashu Kamuy Terrace is also beautiful✨ Be sure to check it out.

Looking into the river flowing through Akan Lake Onsen Town, I saw schools of wakasagi swimming upstream to spawn. It seems the fish are also sensing the arrival of spring☀️🐠✨️.

Introduction of Supporting Companies - 15th Teshikaga Photo Contest The award-winning works of the 15th Teshikaga Photo Contest have been announced, and we have presented prizes to each winner. This Teshikaga Photo Contest is held with the cooperation of local businesses in Teshikaga. On the official Instagram of Teshikaga Navi, we will gradually introduce the supporting companies that have collaborated with us. (In no particular order) This time, we would like to introduce "CAFE SOFTWOOD"! 📝 Teshikaga Navi offers a wide range of information, so please take a look! ✨ Thank you to "CAFE SOFTWOOD" for your support of this event. 🙇🛶 We appreciate your continued support for the "Teshikaga Photo Contest" and "Teshikaga Navi." https://www.masyuko.or.jp/news/photocon_r08/...

Season for outings ☀ Drive spot feature ✨ 1. Alps Tenbo Hiroba Yume no Eki With the remaining snow of the Northern Alps in the background, fields of rapeseed bloom profusely, while about 100 koi nobori (carp streamers) swim overhead. 【Best viewing period】Late April to early May 【Location】Nagano City, Nakajo Miyamasa 【Parking】Available 2. Oyachi Marsh At Oyachi Marsh, located along the Shinanoji Nature Trail, you can enjoy not only skunk cabbage but also the yellow flowers of the buttercup family, called ryukin-ka. 【Best viewing period】Early May to mid-May 【Location】Ageya, Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture 3. Okususobana Nature Garden *Scheduled to open on April 25 (Saturday) Known for its clusters of skunk cabbage, in early May, the wetland with 810,000 skunk cabbages sparkles with the melting snow. 【Skunk cabbage best viewing period】Early May to late May 【Location】16943-4, Kinasa, Nagano City (Okususobana Dam) 【Parking】Available (300 cars, 25 large buses) 【Fees】410 yen for middle school students and above (310 yen for groups of 20 or more) From June 1, 200 yen for middle school students and above (150 yen for groups of 20 or more) *A shuttle bus is planned to run between the Okususobana Nature Garden Visitor Center and the entrance to the nature garden. 【Operating period】April 29 (Wednesday, national holiday) to May 20 (Wednesday) 【Closed days】May 12 (Tuesday) and May 19 (Tuesday) 【One-way fare】600 yen (including tax) for middle school students and above 【Operating hours】Approximately 9:30 to 13:30 (may change depending on weather) *Tentative 【Interval】Approximately every 30 to 40 minutes *The number of users may cause fluctuations. 4. Daibō Pass This pass offers a view of the distant Northern Alps and the legendary Ichiyama, said to have been created by a demon in one night, as well as the nature of the hidden area of Kinasa. It is also a recommended spot for autumn foliage. 【Location】Daibō Pass, Kinasa, Nagano City 【Parking】Available (approximately 5 cars) 5. Toyono Tsutsuji-yama Park With flowers over 100 years old blooming riotously, it is said to be the best flowering site in northern Nagano Prefecture. 【Best viewing period】Early May 【Location】Kawatani, Toyono-machi, Nagano City 【Parking】Available (approximately 30 cars) 6. Jizukiyama Park The view from Nagano City to Shiga Kogen is superb, featuring an observation deck, a roller slide, and athletic play equipment. 【Location】3024-1 Kamimatsu, Nagano City 【Parking】Available (73 spaces, 71 for regular cars and 2 for disabled, large vehicle parking available) 【Opening period】April 1 to November 23 (closed in winter and at night) 【Opening hours】April to May (8:30 to 16:30) June to August (8:30 to 18:30) September to November 23 (8:30 to 16:30) #Drive #Flowers #Scenic views #Nagano City #Nagano tourism

In Nagano City, we introduce late-blooming cherry blossoms! 🌸 Cherry blossom bloom report from April 14 and 15. 〈Don't forget to tap the "save mark" if you want to revisit this later!〉 1. Gassho Cherry Blossom at Tenzōji Temple A designated natural monument of Nagano City. The weeping cherry trees on both sides of the main hall stretch their branches to meet each other, which is why they are called "Gassho Cherry Blossom." 【Location】74 Ōoka Otsu, Nagano City 【Parking】Available 2. Weeping Cherry Blossom at Takahashi in Kinasa The 400-year-old weeping cherry tree is located in the front yard of the Takahashi Community Center and is a natural monument of Nagano City. At Takahashi Yakushidō, there is a group of stone statues, including a beautifully carved Kannon from the 33rd temple of the Western Pilgrimage. 【Location】Takahashi, Kinasa, Nagano City 3. Kamiyo Cherry Blossom at Isozakura Jinja Legend has it that this giant tree grew from the staff of Susanoo no Mikoto, with a circumference of about 9 meters. It is an Edohigan cherry tree estimated to be 1,200 years old and designated as a national natural monument. 【Location】513 Izumihei, Nagano City 4. Sakura Square at Nagano City Hall A cherry blossom spot known to those in the know! It is a relaxing space with garden umbrellas and chairs. 【Location】1613 Tsuruga Midori-machi, Nagano City 【Parking】Available (The first hour after entering the parking lot is free, excluding late-night hours.) *The "Nagano Tourism Net" webpage is currently sharing cherry blossom bloom information for Nagano City! 🌸 Please use it as a reference for your cherry blossom viewing! 🌸 *There is a link in the highlight "Flower Spot Information." #Cherry Blossom #Hanami #Blooming #Nagano City #Nagano Tourism

Introducing Our Sponsors: The 15th Teshikaga Photo Contest The award-winning works of the 15th Teshikaga Photo Contest have been announced, and each winner has received a prize. This Teshikaga Photo Contest is held with the cooperation of local businesses in Teshikagacho. We will gradually introduce the sponsoring companies that have supported us on the official Teshikaga Navi Instagram. (In no particular order) This time, we would like to introduce "Teshikaga Town Lab (Teshikaga Marche)"! 📝 Teshikaga Navi has a wide range of information, so please take a look! ✨ Thank you to "Teshikaga Town Lab (Teshikaga Marche)" for your support in this event. 🙇🛶 We look forward to your continued support for the "Teshikaga Photo Contest" and "Teshikaga Navi." https://www.masyuko.or.jp/news/photocon_r08/...

Annual Event‼︎🛶✨ 【Announcement of Clean-Up Activity at Wakoto Beach】 On April 19th (Sunday), we will hold a beach clean-up starting at 10 AM, followed by a pork miso soup gathering at 11 AM‼︎ (We will serve pork miso soup to those who participate in the beach clean-up.) After that, from 2 PM, a basic life-saving course will be held at Teshikaga Fire Station for those who use the lake. Details of the Beach Clean-Up on April 19th (Sunday) 10 AM - Beach Clean-Up 11 AM - Pork Miso Soup Gathering 2 PM - Basic Life-Saving Course at Teshikaga Fire Station *The beach clean-up is a free participation event, starting at 10 AM at PETETOK on that day. Additionally, on April 29th (Wednesday), GOOD VIBES MARKET (FLEA MARKET) will be held‼︎ This first event will primarily feature local exhibitors, and it is planned to take place within the PETETOK premises. We look forward to your participation and inquiries🛶✨

For the solo traveler in Japan, there are a wealth of accommodation options. You will almost surely be familiar with capsule hotels, which are famous for their cheap prices and tight spaces. But for the budget-conscious traveler looking for something different, Japan's internet cafes are in a class of their own! In many other countries, an internet cafe is no more than a place to briefly use the internet, with the business model arising from disadvantaged areas which formerly did not have much computer access. So how has Japan, one of the nations with the highest internet access penetration in the world, maintained a thriving industry of internet cafes? The answer lies in comfort and services. While if you really do just want a computer at a counter seat it is an option, there are a wealth of choices including private booths with room to lay down, couple's booths, shower access, all-you-can-drink beverage dispensers, affordable meals delivered to your booth, and much more. Many internet cafes double as "manga cafes", with entire libraries of series to read at your leisure. Internet cafes offer overnight plans and discounted prices for late hours, making it a surprisingly reasonable and very unique alternative to staying at a conventional hotel, and since it encompasses dining options as well, can be an all-in-one destination for those who would rather not splurge for a meal at an unfamiliar restaurant. A word of warning for the truly weary, though: While sleeping at an internet cafe is very feasible, and the booths are closed off, those seeking complete privacy or more comfort in rest would perhaps be better off elsewhere. Spending the night in an internet cafe is perhaps most recommended for the young and unattached who don't mind the tradeoff of somewhat spartan sleeping conditions for affordability and a truly unique experience.

In the Kushiro Subprefecture of Hokkaido (Kushiro City, Kushiro Town, Shibechacho, Tsuruimura, Akkeshicho, Hamanaka Town), we are distributing "Wetland Cards" at four Ramsar Convention registered wetlands: Kushiro Shitsugen, Akanko, Akkeshi-ko and Bekambeushi Shitsugen, and Kiritappu Shitsugen! The cards distributed at Akanko feature the early morning scenery of Akanko and Mt. Oakan🏔🌅. Please ask at the counter on the 1st floor of Akan Lake Marimukan for your "Wetland Card!"

Cherry Blossom Blooming Report as of April 10th 🌸 Here’s some information for your weekend hanami (flower viewing) plans!✨ 1. Shiroyama Park Located next to Zenkoji, this is the most famous cherry blossom spot in Nagano City, boasting about 470 cherry trees in full bloom. The cherry blossom tunnel during peak bloom is absolutely beautiful! 【Bloom Status】Full Bloom (slightly falling petals) *Captured on April 10th 【Location】Nagano City, Hakosemizuka 【Parking】Available 1st Parking Lot (155 cars), 2nd Parking Lot (123 cars), 3rd Parking Lot (155 cars) 100 yen for the first 20 minutes, plus 100 yen for every additional 20 minutes *Free for up to 2 hours with a Nagano City Childcare Passport when using the park or zoo 2. Matsushiro Castle Ruins The former residence of the Sanada clan, Matsushiro Castle features about 100 cherry trees that beautifully bloom in the castle's Edo period space! 【Cherry Blossom Light-Up】April 4th (Sat) to April 13th (Mon) from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM 【Bloom Status】Full Bloom *Captured on April 10th 【Location】Nagano City, Matsudaimachi, Matsushiro 44 【Parking】Available City-run Tonomachi Tourist Parking Lot: 7 large buses, 50 regular cars, 2 for disabled Matsushiro Castle North Parking Lot (5-minute walk from the north side of Matsushiro Castle): 10 large buses, 60 regular cars, 2 for disabled 3. Kawanakajima Battlefield Historic Park Famous for the battles between Takeda Shingen and Uesugi Kenshin. A great spot to enjoy about 100 cherry trees! 【Cherry Blossom Light-Up】After blooming until April 11th (Sat) from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM 【Bloom Status】Full Bloom *Captured on April 10th 【Location】Nagano City, Kojimada 1384-1 【Parking】Available (Expect congestion in the park's parking lot. Please refrain from unauthorized parking at nearby facilities.) 4. Chausuyama Dinosaur Park Entrance About 80 cherry trees line the embankment at the entrance of Chausuyama Dinosaur Park. During peak bloom, you can enjoy a cherry blossom tunnel. The varieties include Somei Yoshino and Higan Sakura. Additionally, cherry trees bloom within the Chausuyama Mallett Golf Course. 【Bloom Status】Full Bloom *Captured on April 10th 【Location】Nagano City, Shinonoi Okada 2358 【Parking】Available 5. Kourinji Temple Home to a 300-year-old weeping cherry tree, along with other Somei Yoshino trees. Many people come to photograph the magnificent cherry blossoms and the temple. 【Bloom Status】Somei Yoshino Full Bloom, Weeping Cherry Dropping Petals *Captured on April 10th 【Location】Nagano City, Shinonoi Komatsubara 2329 【Parking】Available 6. Unjouden Around 650 cherry trees bloom along the sakura slope leading to Unjouden from behind Zenkoji and on the observation road. Being on a high ground, it offers a panoramic view of the city. 【Bloom Status】Full Bloom *Captured on April 10th 【Location】Nagano City, Hakosemizuka 3-chome 1775 【Parking】Available 7. Sakura Embankment (Aakusu) About 60 Somei Yoshino trees line the Saikawa river near Aakusu. 【Bloom Status】Beginning to Fall *Captured on April 10th 【Location】Nagano Prefecture, Nagano City, Aakusu 1-32 (Aakusu Address) *The "Nagano Tourism Net" web page is currently providing information on cherry blossom blooming in Nagano City! 🌸 Please use it as a reference for your hanami plans! 🌸 #Cherry Blossom #Hanami #Blooming #Nagano City #Nagano Tourism