🌼We updated the daffodil bloom report🌼 They are still in full bloom! We include detailed photos and descriptions from around the garden🌿✨ We look forward to your impressions and comments like “I went!”😌💭 https://www.shimoda-city.info/post/20260126...

[Kochi Prefecture Shimanto City] Flowers That Color the Shimanto River Basin 1. Climate of Shimanto City Shimanto City enjoys abundant forests, the clear Shimanto River, and the pacific ocean to its southeast, offering a rich natural environment. From 1991 through 2020, the average temperature was 16.5°C and the average annual precipitation was 2,877.9 mm, giving the area a warm, Pacific-type climate. 2. Flowers Nurtured by the Mild Climate [Spring] 〇 Around late February, when the spring sun begins to warm the days, the Iruta Yanagi Grove in the Shimanto River lower basin turns a tender yellow-green as new buds swell, and some 10 million rapeseed flowers bloom across the willow groves like a yellow carpet. This is an iconic scene that announces spring in the Shimanto River watershed. 〇 By late March, the cherry trees at the hilltop viewing spot Tamesho Park come into full bloom. Lanterns are lit during the cherry blossom season, letting visitors enjoy the night blossoms as well. The Shimanto City Local Museum sits nearby, so while learning about local history you can also take in the views from its observation floor. (Shimanto City Local Museum opening hours/9:00–17:00, closed/Wednesdays) At Shimanto River Sakura Zutsumi Park, neatly planted cherry trees and well-kept lawns invite visitors to sit and enjoy hanami while admiring the spring-bright Shimanto River. In the Shimanto River lower basin, plowing of rice fields begins around this time and the frogs start to call. 〇 When the cherry blossoms fall and the trees turn to leaf, look toward Kōzan-ji Temple to see the city flower, wisteria, paint the slopes purple. Kōzan-ji is also popular for hiking and birdwatching, and a park with play equipment makes it a favorite spot for families on holidays. 〇 In breezy May, roses and lilies cultivated by local residents brighten the pastoral inland landscapes in the Nishitosa area. Omiya Rose Garden welcomes visitors with about 500 rose bushes, while Nishitosa Yabukachi greets them with roughly 12,000 lilies. 〇 At this time of year, Shimanto Dragonfly Park shows dragonflies dancing above waters edged with water lilies and irises. Established in 1985 as the world’s first dragonfly reserve, the park has recorded 81 species of dragonfly. The Shimanto River Museum Akitsuio, attached to the park, exhibits insect specimens from around the world including dragonflies, alongside fish that inhabit the Shimanto River. (Shimanto River Museum Akitsuio opening hours/9:00–17:00, closed/Mondays) [Early summer] 〇 Under rainy, cloudy skies in June, Yasunami Waterwheel Village delights visitors with the rhythmic clack of turning waterwheels while hydrangeas along the waterways blaze with color. Sheltered pavilions near the channels make it pleasant to sit and watch the hydrangeas and the rural scenery. In the inland parts of Shimanto City, summer heat can be intense; when northwesterly winds blow, the foehn effect can raise temperatures and sea breezes from the pacific ocean have difficulty reaching inland, causing high heat. On August 12, 2013, Egawazaki recorded Japan’s highest temperature that year at 41.0°C. [Autumn] 〇 In late September, when the sky seems a little higher, the Iruta Yanagi Grove is enlivened by clusters of red spider lilies (manjushage) that dye the area bright red, and autumn insects begin to call from the grasses. Around this time the severe summer heat gradually eases. 〇 In early November, when autumn deepens, beautiful fall colors appear along the ravines of the Kurozon River, a tributary of the Shimanto River. [Winter] Although Shimanto City benefits from a mild climate, snow does fall some winters in the mountain valleys and on plains opening toward the Bungo Channel, and mornings and evenings often dip below freezing. Daytime, however, tends to be mild with many pleasant, sunny winter days. 3. Events to Celebrate the Arrival of Spring The Iruta Yanagi Grove, introduced above, hosts the Nanohana Festival. At the Nanohana Festival, the rapeseed flower groves spread like a yellow carpet and a variety of events are planned, including sales of local specialty products and wind band performances by junior and senior high school students. Please come and enjoy Shimanto River sightseeing when the rapeseed flowers are in bloom.

Event Announcement📣 On Sunday, January 25, 2026, Roadside Station Nakasatsunai will host the Nakasatsunai Winter Festival 😊 Enjoy a full lineup of snow activities, including snow rafting, a snow treasure hunt, and a snowy slide! Make the most of the cold winter day and have fun! Food trucks will also be on site, so you can enjoy tasty treats 🎵 📍Program Highlights ・Snow rafting (one ride 100 yen, limited to the first 250 participants) ・Stamp rally (limited to the first 100 children in elementary school or younger) ・Snow treasure hunt (for elementary school children or younger) ・Sledding 🛷 (free sled rentals available) ・Marshmallow roasting (3 pieces for 50 yen; available while supplies last) ・Hot milk served (limited to the first 100 people) 📍Date and Time: Sunday, January 25, 2026, 10:00–12:00 📍Location: Roadside Station Nakasatsunai South Side Special Venue Bring your family and friends and come to Roadside Station Nakasatsunai 🤗 https://michinoeki-nakasatsunai.jp/post_event/post_event-1311/...

You can get to the hotel straight from the airport and straight from the station. Easy access is another reassuring part of your trip. Unwind with a relaxing experience at Kushiro Prince Hotel. You can book via the profile URL. 📍Kushiro Prince Hotel https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/...

Kyonan Town announced the blooming of the Yoritomo cherry on January 20. Having received Kawazu cherry trees from Kawazu Town, Kyonan Town calls them "Yoritomo cherry" in honor of the historical episode in which Minamoto no Yoritomo, defeated in battle, is said to have landed at Ryugashima Coast and planned his comeback. You can enjoy daffodils well into this month, so you can admire daffodils and Kawazu cherry blossoms together. From Saturday, February 7, the Hotagawa River–Yoritomo Cherry Village Development Committee will place bamboo lanterns along the Daffodil Lane at Sakuma Dam Park and illuminate them at night. The floral relay continues, so everyone, please come and visit. #Kyonan Town#Boso Peninsula#Yoritomo cherry#bamboo lanterns#Yoritomo cherry#Kawazu cherry#Daffodils and Kawazu cherry duet

🐬✨Half-price Admission for Sakai City Residents!✨🐬 One day only: Sunday, February 1, 2026 With thanks for your continued support ＼ Sakai Citizen Appreciation Day ／ celebrates with you🎉 On this day only, residents of Sakai City receive half-price admission! Enjoy thrilling dolphin training sessions and paid hands-on programs suitable for both adults and children✨ It’s a special day the whole family can enjoy💙 We look forward to welcoming you😊 [Eligibility] Residents of Sakai City *Please present proof that confirms your residence in Sakai City. *Discount applies only to the person shown per one form of ID presented. *This offer cannot be combined with other discounts. *The dolphin interaction experience program requires a separate regular fee. [Admission Fees] ◯ Regular admission Adult (junior high school age and older): ¥1,210 Child (age 4 to elementary school): ¥770 ◯ Nighttime (admission from 5:00 PM onward) Adult (junior high school age and older): ¥770 Child (age 4 to elementary school): ¥550 *Free for children age 3 and under all day [Hours] 10:00 AM–8:00 PM (last admission 7:30 PM) 🔍 For details, search “Noah Dolphin Dome”! https://www.dolphindome.jp//

Event Announcement📣 The nighttime winter-only event at TokachigawaOnsen, called "Sairinka," is held each year in honor of the swans that fly into TokachigawaOnsen.😊 A fantasy show synchronizing sound and light creates a magical atmosphere. About 600 luminous objects made from agricultural insulating material and LED bulbs change with the music to delight spectators' eyes.🎵 Date and Time: Saturday, January 24, 2026 – Sunday, February 15, 2026, 7:00 PM–9:00 PM Venue: Tokachigaoka Park Event Maintenance Contribution: 500 yen per person for junior high school students and older; free for elementary school students and younger Contact: Tokachi River Onsen Tourism Association TEL:0155-32-6633 https://www.tokachigawa.net/event/sairinka.html...

A new source spring, Kussharo Onsen, has been born, gushing from about 1,000 meters underground! Rich in salt and carbon dioxide, it warms you from the core and may also help improve skin. You can relax and ease travel fatigue in the covered outdoor baths. A dedicated elevator is available for use while wearing yukata and sandals. 📍Kussharo Prince Hotel https://www.instagram.com/kussharo_ph/...

A fire burned at Tomioka Elementary School for the first time in about 20 years. The children who once took part are now parents, passing the tradition to today's kids. On Sunday, January 18, the "Dondoya"—held at Tomioka Elementary School for the first time in about 20 years—took place. The familiar crack of bamboo snapping, "Bachi bachi!" Beyond the height of the flames, the crowd's warmth was overwhelming…! They grilled mochi over the embers, enjoyed steaming roasted sweet potatoes, and sipped pork miso soup that warmed the body. Watching children stuffing their cheeks with mochi they had toasted themselves, I felt reminded of the importance of keeping this tradition alive. From the lighting at 9 a.m., the happy hours passed in a flash. Thank you so much to everyone in the community who planned and prepared the event. Winter in Tomioka is the best. If you missed it, why not join the circle next year? If you want to help preserve Reihoku's traditions, please follow us via the icon at the top left to show your support. We’re sharing the charms of Reihoku! ✨

Hello! This is Jewelry Town. The cold season has arrived, but on sunny days the sunlight feels pleasantly warm. At this time of year, Senga Falls reveals the vivid textures of its rock face, and the spray of water sounds magnificent and powerful amid the stillness. Take in the pure, wintry air unique to this season. At our shop, new items such as aura quartz and garden quartz have arrived in keeping with this year’s lucky colors of red and orange. We hope you enjoy them together with the nature of Shosenkyo Gorge. We look forward to seeing many of you again this year.

🌼We have updated the daffodil bloom report🌼 The daffodils at Cape Tsumeki are at their peak✨ Every area is at its best for photos right now📸🤍 Come smell the soft scent of daffodils and enjoy an early taste of spring🌸 https://www.shimoda-city.info/post/20260122...

A hotel that blends with nature across a vast estate. Surrounded by seasonal scenery, step outside the building and a gentle sense of time awaits. At Kussharo Prince Hotel, take a moment to leave everyday life behind. Winter operating period Monday, January 19th, 2026 – Saturday, March 7th, 2026 📍Kussharo Prince Hotel https://www.instagram.com/kussharo_ph/...

We offer a variety of course meals to suit different occasions. À la carte options are also available on the day. Dinner Courses (reservations required) Choose from six sets: ・Western set meal ・Western course (2 varieties) ・Japanese set meal ・Japanese kaiseki-style meal (2 varieties) 📍Kushiro Prince Hotel https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/...

A nesting burrow for Pirika

Event Announcement 📣 Lake Shikaribetsu, sitting at 800 meters above sea level and famed nationwide for its clarity, freezes over in winter. On the frozen surface, a magical village called shikaribetsu lake kotan appears only during the winter months. Kotan is the Ainu word for "village." 😊 This is a world created by people who gather at Lake Shikaribetsu, using the lake’s great natural power. 🎵 You can enjoy an "ice bar" serving drinks amid a world of snow and ice, an "open-air bath on the ice" where you can soak while taking in snowy scenery, and many other experiences such as making ice glasses, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing!! 📍Date and Time: Saturday, January 24, 2026–Sunday, March 15, 2026 📍Location: Lakeside of Lake Shikaribetsu (Shikaribetsu, Shikaoi, Kawato-gun, Hokkaido) 📍Admission: Season Pass 500 yen (elementary school age and up) 📞Contact: shikaribetsu lake kotan Executive Committee TEL: 0156-69-8181 (inside shikaribetsu lake nature center)

A hotel overlooking the tranquil Lake Kussharo, bathed in natural light. Surrounded by nature, experience a passage of time unlike your everyday life. At Kussharo Prince Hotel, enjoy moments that gently unwind the heart. [Winter Season Notice] January 19, 2026 (Monday) – March 7, 2026 (Saturday) 📍Kussharo Prince Hotel https://www.instagram.com/kussharo_ph/...

Photographed on January 20th: Atami cherry blossoms are in full bloom at several spots 🌸 (Kamanariya Heishichi Statue · Itokawa Promenade · Shinshui Park Third Section · Sanremo Park · Kaihin Park · Nagisa Koen Park) Itogawa Cherry Blossom Festival runs until February 8th https://www.ataminews.gr.jp/features/59...

This is a photo of the Atami Cherry Blossoms along Itokawa Promenade illuminated on January 17th 🌸 https://www.ataminews.gr.jp/features/59...

Good morning! The blooms are advancing! What will this week's cold snap do?! Tsukigase Plum Valley Plum Festival February 14, 2026–March 29, 2026

🌼We updated the daffodil blooming report🌼 They are in full bloom, so now is the best time😌🤍! Today (January 19) at Cape Tsumeki the wind was calm and the weather was warm enough to skip a jacket! (It is often windy here, so don’t forget to dress warmly💨🧣) See the blog for photos and more details👇 https://www.shimoda-city.info/post/20260119...

Gonbe Pass (Gonbee Toge) When transporting Ina rice to Kiso, the routes over Shiojiri Pass or Ushikubi Pass were fine up to Narai, but Torii Pass lay beyond and made the journey inconvenient in terms of days and rice prices. To solve this, cattle driver foreman Furuhata Gonbei spent two years opening a route through this pass, 1,523 meters above sea level, to reach Ina. Afterwards, rice flowed from Inadani Valley to Kiso Valley, while lacquerware, bentwood items and other woodcraft traveled from Kiso to Ina. In recognition of this achievement, the pass came to be called Gonbe Pass. As the watershed between the Shinano River system and the Tenryu River system, the views from this pass are superb: you can look down over Inadani Valley and enjoy a sweeping panorama of the Southern Alps. In spring’s fresh buds, summer’s deep green and mountain streams, and autumn’s foliage, the scenery delights travelers through every season. The pass is designated as part of the Shinanoji Nature Trail Gonbei Pass Route, where you can fully savor the great outdoors.

Kiso Kurashi no Kogeikan Location: 2272-7 Kisohirasawa, Shiojiri City ◎ Masterful craftsmanship and the power of lacquer breathe life into materials Kiso Kurashi no Kogeikan is conceived as a museum and shop. From the displayed and stocked items to the building materials and furniture, the facility proudly emphasizes wood—the hallmark of this region. The entire venue overflows with the warmth of Shiojiri and Kiso, offering everything from crafts to everyday household tools and mountain-country flavors unique to the area. ◎ A wide selection of local specialties from Shiojiri and Kiso, including the traditional craft Kiso lacquerware and Shiojiri wine A range of cultures born from interactions with nature. We introduce the attractions of local industries rooted in Kiso life—skills handed down for centuries—while also presenting new lifestyle ideas. A medal awarded at the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, finished by the careful work of lacquer artisans, is on permanent display. Visitors can also enjoy a Kiso tsuishu (Kiso raised lacquer) sanding-and-revealing experience. (Advance reservation required at least two weeks prior) ◎ Traditional craft “Kiso lacquerware” hands-on experience menu (advance reservation required; please book at least two weeks in advance) Kiso tsuishu sanding-and-revealing experience Duration: Approximately 1 hour Fees: ① Coaster 2,200 yen ② Chopsticks 2,500 yen ③ Spoon 2,500 yen - Overview - Address: 2272-7 Kisohirasawa, Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture Phone: 0264-34-3888 Fax: 0264-34-2832 Hours: 9:00–17:00 Closed: Every Tuesday / Open during busy seasons (closed irregularly) Parking: Standard cars: 500 spaces / Large buses: 10 spaces / Accessible: 4 spaces (all free) Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible restrooms, ramps Access: By car: 25 km (about 30 minutes) from Shiojiri IC / By car: 80 km (about 90 minutes) from Nakatsugawa IC / By train: JR Chuo Main Line to kisohirasawa station, then 20-minute walk

Event Announcement 📣 “Hombetsucho Bean-Scattering Night” will be held on Saturday, January 24th 😊 This event, timed for the Setsubun season, celebrates beans, a local specialty of Hombetsucho. Setsubun takes place the day before Risshun (the beginning of spring) and traditionally involves scattering beans to drive away evil spirits. It is said this practice began to ward off the misfortune and demons that can enter at seasonal boundaries 👹 At this event we will stage a dramatic bean-scatting spectacle using more than 2.5 tons of consecrated beans to vanquish many demons, and a “bean shower” where participants are drenched in over 100 kg of beans like a waterfall, among other bean-themed attractions. A lineup of food trucks will also gather so you can enjoy plenty of gourmet treats 🎵 https://www.town.honbetsu.hokkaido.jp/sightseeing/fes/details/mamemakanight.html...

“Can you believe all of this is handmade?” A massive pyre has appeared that can withstand the sea breeze of Tomioka. Tomorrow, Sunday, January 18th at 9:00 AM, the Dondoyama ceremony will take place at Tomioka Elementary School. This pyre rises more than five meters high. Looking up from below, you’ll be overwhelmed by its sheer presence. Please come and feel the passion that everyone poured into preparing for this day on site. A winter tradition wishing for good health and safety. Let’s watch together the moment a great pillar of flame soars into the Tomioka sky!

🌼✨【Tomorrow, Sunday 1/18】Daffodil Festival × Food Truck Info✨🌼 On January 18th, food trucks will appear at Cape Tsumeki, the site of the Daffodil Festival 🚚✨ You’ll find warm comfort foods, coffee, and an all-you-can-pack tangerine offer 😋🍊 Plus, for every 500 yen you spend, you can join a raffle to win kinmedai (splendid alfonsino) goods or pair admission vouchers for local tourist facilities Everyone wins something—there are no losing tickets 😲✨ From 10:00 a.m., enjoy the regular Shimoda Taiko performance and complimentary Ikenodan simmered miso hotpot! Please enjoy the event alongside the daffodils in full bloom 🌼🌈 👉 Check the images for details on vendors and times 📸👀

Hello 😃 This is the main building of Yamanashi Wine Kingdom. This time we present “A View You Haven’t Seen Yet!” ✨ Shosenkyo Gorge has a ropeway that rises to the summit, where a panoramic spectacle unfolds on clear days. What the view looks like… come and find out for yourself 😊 You’ll also find an owl sculpture somewhere and artwork made by affixing stones together 🎨 If you look closely at this artwork, you’ll see words written on each stone. It’s fun to stroll around searching for the sculptures and art 🔍 And Valentine’s Day is coming soon 🍫 Why not toast with wine with a close friend or partner once in a while 🥂 You might discover a wonderful wine that makes a perfect gift 🎁 It’s still a cold season, so please dress warmly when you visit 🧣❄️

Open only two days a week!? 😍 Three hidden gem bakeries in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture you’ll want to go out of your way to visit 🥐💞 Read the article here 🔽 https://www.shobara-info.com/report/5461... As a foodie in my 30s who loves sweets, I adore hunting for places that aren’t “ordinary.” In Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, there are hidden bakeries that operate as mobile vendors or only open on limited days. I actually visited them and will introduce them here! Be sure to check the Shobara Tourist Navi website’s “Editorial Report”!

A commemorative ema and goshuin designed by Kobukuro Kuroda-san of "Kugatsu Youka" have been created!✨ Heartwarming news has arrived from "Kugatsu Youka" in East Sakai!👀 ～～～～～～～～～～～～～～～～～～～ Kugatsu Youka in East Sakai has, with the cooperation of the local Hochigai Shrine, prepared special ema and goshuin. As it happens, there is a story from a mother who used to visit Hochigai Shrine when she moved from Harumidai to Makizukadai in third grade, and we once again felt how deeply the shrine is rooted in Sakai. When we consulted with Hochigai Shrine, who share this connection, they said, “We have long known that Kugatsu Youka has been working hard to enliven the streets of Sakai. We are happy to cooperate.” With those warm words, this initiative became a reality. Visitors may write their wishes on the ema and dedicate them on the ema racks set up at Hochigai Shrine and at three locations within the Sakai Higashi Shopping Street. Please come by and receive these special ema and goshuin along with your heartfelt wishes. Details will be announced at Kugatsu Youka’s counter (@kugatsu.youka) and on their social media. Look forward to it. ～～～～～～～～～～～～～～～～～～～

The time has finally come!! Tsukigase’s major event that draws about 200,000 visitors over roughly three weeks!! The Tsukigase Plum Grove Plum Festival!! Tsukigase Plum Grove was designated as Japan’s first nationally recognized Place of Scenic Beauty!! We look forward to welcoming many visitors again this year!!