• Table of Contents
• Don't worry if you miss this flight! There are only two chances a year!
• "Mimasaka Slow Life Train"
• Full of highlights! Special "hospitality" events at each stop
• Experience retro railway heritage at Tsuyama Station and Mimasaka-kamo Station!
• A tour of Showa and film locations! Takano Station and Mimasaka-takio Station
• Revealing precious facilities in the mountains! Mimasaka-kawai Station and Nagi Station
• Ticket enquiries and other information

Don't worry if you miss this flight! There are only two chances a year!

The Mimasaka Slow Life Train is actually not a once-a-year event. It normally runs twice a year, in spring and autumn (mainly around May and November), so even if you miss this November run, you'll have a chance to ride it again the following spring . Operation dates and detailed information are regularly announced on the official websites of JR West and Tsuyama Learning Railway Museum, so be sure to check them out and plan your next Mimasaka Slow Life Train trip!

Tsuyama Learning Railway Museum | Official website

[place_master_id=10791 show_photos embed id="qFZXI7c46k"]

"Mimasaka Slow Life Train"

The image is for illustrative purposes only.

This train is a three-car train with all reserved seats, and will operate as the "Mimasaka Slow Life Train" between Tsuyama Station and Nagi Station (between Nagi Station and Chizu Station it will operate as a local train with all unreserved seats). At each station the train stops at, warm local "omotenashi" (welcoming and service) events will be held, attracting visitors.

The outbound journey departs Tsuyama Station at 11:50 and arrives at Chizu Station at 14:45.

The return journey is scheduled to depart Chizu Station at 14:53 and arrive at Tsuyama Station at 16:35.

Please note that the stop time at Nagi Station is short.

Full of highlights! Special "hospitality" events at each stop

At each station where the Mimasaka Slow Life Train stops, you can enjoy various events, exhibitions, and gourmet food sales that make use of the local characteristics (※Event content may be subject to change).

Experience retro railway heritage at Tsuyama Station and Mimasaka-kamo Station!

Tsuyama Station: A steam locomotive welcomes you

At Tsuyama Station, a C11 steam locomotive is on display in the rotary. Additionally, about a 10-minute walk away is the Tsuyama Learning Railway Museum, where you can learn about the history of Japanese railways.

Stop times: Departure at 11:50 on the outbound journey, arrival at 16:35 on the return journey.

Mimasaka-kamo Station: Enjoy the precious semaphore and gourmet food

This station is a treasured spot for railway enthusiasts, as it was the last station in Japan to use semaphore signals (old-fashioned mechanical signals).

Items for sale : Pound cake, pie choux, apple pie (outbound trip only), wild vegetable rice, curry, jerk chicken burger, udon, wagyu beef skewers, yakitori, hot coffee, chai, etc.

Event: When shopping on the way there, you can participate in a lottery, and if you win, you can exchange it for local specialties on the way back (there is no lottery on the way back).

Stop time: 36 minutes on the outbound journey, 17 minutes on the return journey.

A tour of Showa and film locations! Takano Station and Mimasaka-takio Station

Takano Station: Experience the nostalgic "Showa" era

Exhibition: The "Nostalgic Showa Exhibition" will be held only on the 8th. Here, home appliances and movie posters from the Showa(1926-1989) will be on display.

Stop time: 5 minutes on the way there.

Mimasaka-takio Station: A film location and a cultural property station building

The wooden station building, which was built in Showa and retains its original appearance, is registered as a "Registered Tangible Cultural Property" by the Agency for Cultural Affairs.

This place is famous as the location for the final installment of the popular Japanese film "Otoko wa Tsurai yo," and in recent years it has also been used as the location for the graduation song of a former member of the popular idol group "Nogizaka 46."

event :

The theme song for "Otoko wa Tsurai yo" will be performed (only on the 9th).

Local bands will perform (9th only).

You can enjoy taking photos with staff dressed as the film's main character, Tora-san, and with a face-in panel.

Items for sale: Lunch boxes (8th and 9th), yakisoba (9th only), railway goods (Tsuyama Learning Railway Museum goods, etc.), original Slow Life Train panel magnets, etc.

Stop time: 34 minutes on the outbound journey.

Revealing precious facilities in the mountains! Mimasaka-kawai Station and Nagi Station

Mimasaka-kawai Station: Tour of the manual turntable and experience operating it

This small station, nestled quietly in the mountains near Monomi Pass, still retains a valuable manual turntable (a manual device for changing the direction of locomotives).

event :

Visit the manual turntable, a heritage site of modern industrial development.

Experience driving a track bicycle (cancelled in case of rain).

Event hours: 11:00-14:30.

Participation requirements : Elementary school students and above (elementary school students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian). When the train stops (13:58-14:14), only those on the Slow Life Train can participate.

Items for sale : Fried chicken, mochi, abaokowa (rice cakes), aba apple pie, ginger tsukudani (simmered in soy sauce), etc.

Stop time: 17 minutes on the outbound journey.

Nagi Station: Old memories and Yosakoi dance performance

This station is located at the foot of Monomi Pass on the Tottori side, and the stairs leading up to the platform are decorated with photos of old memories.

event :

Performance by a Yosakoi group (9th only, from 14:35).

You can enjoy the hospitality for approximately 35 minutes until the return journey from Chizu Station.

For sale: Persimmon leaf sushi, handmade baked goods, local specialties, etc.

Stop time: 2 minutes on both the outbound and return journeys.

Ticket enquiries and other information

All seats on the Mimasaka Slow Life Train are reserved, so tickets must be purchased in advance.

For ticket inquiries :

JR West Customer Service Center: 0570-00-2486

*Please check the JR West official website or the "Midori no Midori" ticket counter for purchasing methods. For foreign visitors tourists, it is convenient to purchase tickets on the JR West official website (English version, etc.) or at a travel agency.

Events, hospitality enquiries :

Mimasaka Local Railway Tourism Executive Committee Secretariat (Tsuyama Learning Railway Museum): 0868-35-3343

Don't miss this opportunity to experience Japan's railway heritage and interact with the warm-hearted local people!

JR Odekake Net

Aberdeen to Penzance, the longest direct train journey in the UK, has concluded after more than a century of service. This iconic route, operated by CrossCountry, covered 774 miles, stretching from the northeastern coast of Scotland to the southwest corner of Cornwall, taking passengers through some of Britain’s most picturesque landscapes.

While this historic route offered a glimpse of the UK’s rich rail history, it faced challenges in recent years due to reduced demand and operational inefficiencies. With 36 stops along the way, the service passed through bustling cities like York, Bristol, and Truro, offering breathtaking views of landmarks such as the Royal Albert Bridge and the scenic Dawlish sea wall. Despite the scenic experience, the route was increasingly seen as outdated, and CrossCountry decided to discontinue the service in favor of more efficient routes.

The journey itself typically took around 13 hours, with passengers enjoying an experience that captured both the beauty and the endurance of British rail travel. However, the length and time commitment made it less appealing to modern travelers, contributing to the decline in its popularity. Rail enthusiasts, however, have cherished the service, with many hailing it as an opportunity to experience the diversity of the UK’s landscapes in one long journey.

The final train, which left Aberdeen in the morning and arrived in Penzance in the evening, was filled with passengers eager to experience the end of an era. Rail enthusiasts, some of whom had always dreamed of taking the journey, boarded the final train to mark its closure. Among them was Michael Cleaver, a passionate traveler, who described the final journey as a “party train,” where the atmosphere was filled with appreciation for the long-standing tradition of the service.

Introduced in 1921, the Aberdeen to Penzance route became a significant part of the UK’s rail network, providing a vital connection for passengers traveling from Scotland to the southernmost parts of England. Over time, the service became not just a mode of transportation but a symbol of endurance, offering travelers a chance to see parts of the country that were otherwise difficult to access in one trip.

While the route is now no longer in operation, its legacy remains. For many, it represented the quintessential long-distance journey across Britain, combining history, culture, and stunning scenery into a single experience. Rail travel in the UK has undergone significant changes over the years, and with the discontinuation of this iconic service, British rail enthusiasts are left reflecting on its cultural significance.

For those who still seek long-distance travel with a touch of nostalgia, alternatives like the Caledonian Sleeper offer a comparable experience. This overnight service connecting London Euston to Fort William in Scotland offers a scenic journey through the Scottish Highlands, providing passengers with a unique way to experience the beauty of northern Britain. With fewer stops and a more focused route, the Caledonian Sleeper continues the tradition of offering a comfortable and picturesque long-distance journey.

The Aberdeen to Penzance route may have ended, but its place in UK rail history is secure. It will always be remembered by those who had the privilege of traveling on it and by future generations who will look back at this chapter in British transport history. As rail travel in the UK evolves, it’s clear that the spirit of these iconic long journeys will always remain part of the fabric of British rail travel.

Award-winning photographer Joe Vitti remembers the night he encountered Bruce Springsteen in a small-town campus bar in 1976, ultimately capturing just one single shot. But what a shot it was of the rock star known as "The Boss."

[Read More]

Mikasa Hokkai Bon Odori: A Live Music Event

Mikasa City, located in central Hokkaido, is an hour drive away from Sapporo. From Shin-Chitose Airport, the drive takes an hour and a half. The city, which can be used as a hub for sightseeing in the area, is easy to access, and perfect as a day trip destination. Mikasa has a history of hosting a Bon odori event, accompanied by live music.

Bon odori derives from a Buddhist ritual to send off the spirit of our ancestors. It has become a summertime attraction, and a place for community interaction, as well. The unique development of Mikasa Hokkai Bon Odori was also influenced by the folk culture of coal miners.

It is held at Mikasa Chuo Park. Visitors from out of town, along with the locals, annually gather at the event to join the circle of traditional dancing accompanied by live music.

This article is about the highlights of Mikasa Hokkai Bon Odori, and the appeals of the host city.

History, Highlights, and Event Period

Mikasa City is known as the birthplace of Hokkai Bon-uta, a Japanese folk song. The history of the local coal mine is related to the song.

For 110 years from 1879 to 1989, Mikasa prospered as a coal town. People gathered from all over Japan to work at the mine. Betcho-bushi, a folk song sung at the annual Bon odori, supported the hard work of the miners.

After WWII, Kozan Imai, known as the godfather of Hokkaido folk songs, arranged the music and lyrics of Betcho-bushi and released a song titled Hokkai Tanko-bushi. It was later recorded as Hokkai Bon-uta, which became famous all over Japan, and Mikasa was widely acknowledged as its place of origin.

The current event is held over 3 days, from August 13th to 15th. Various events, such as a coal-carrying race, summer fireworks display, and a romantic lantern procession are scheduled, along with the traditional Bon odori.

The yagura, a three layered structure, is about 8 meters in height, with the singers and musicians performing from the top floor. There is a rental yukata service at Mikasa Civic Hall, located next to the park. As of August 2025, the charge is 1,500 yen. Those who have just happened to drop by will still be able to enjoy the atmosphere.

Join the Locals and Dance

During the daytime, unique events such as a coal-carrying race, imitation show, and an idol performance will be held. The music for the Bon odori starts around 17:00.

The three-layered, 8-meter-tall yagura will be decorated with lanterns, creating a dreamy scene at sunset. The Hokkai Bon-uta singer, along with musicians playing the Japanese flute and drum, will be providing the music with powerful song and rhythm resonating continuously throughout the venue.

While some people may be overwhelmed by the atmosphere, join the circle of locals who are dancing happily with smiles, and you'll find yourself moving along to their movements.

The singer's strong voice, accentuated by the drum, and the merry air created by the locals, will make a wonderful memory.

There are various Bon odori programs, such as the adorable children's Bon odori, the incredibly popular children's costume Bon odori, and Mikasa Hokkai Bon Odori, which is for people of all ages. Participants can take a break between dances or join a program they prefer, enjoying the event at their own pace.

Food Stalls

Mikasa Chuo Park will be divided into west and east areas, with the yagura located at the former, and food stalls at the latter. There will be about 50 booths, providing fragrant and colorful looking dishes to brighten the festive summer night.

Along with staple dishes such as yakisoba, cotton candy, and churros, popular local eateries, including Mikasa Wine, will also be present.

While the wine can be purchased at Roadside Station Mikasa and liquor shops, they will be specially on sale at the event. The grapes are cultivated from the hilly area of Mikasa, nurtured by the region's coal-mining history and soil that contains ammonite fossils from tens of millions year ago.

On the day of the event, wine samplings will be available before purchase.

The following is a list of popular local eateries that will have food stalls at the event. It'd also be fun to visit their physical stores after the event.

2 Beans Coffee: A Mobile Coffee Stand

2 Beans Coffee, established in 2019 and based in Mikasa City, is a food truck serving freshly brewed coffee.

The most popular menu at the event is the Mikasa latte, made in the image of a coal mine. The black and white drink is quite picturesque. It is stylish, and perfect for those who want to taste something delicious during the trip.

Rire-Sourire, a specialty store handling financier, is an affiliated eatery located in Mikasa. They serve confections which are ideal as souvenirs, made from Hokkaido products.
[place_master_id=17140 show_photos embed]

[place_master_id=17141 show_photos embed]

Namae ga Nai Pan-ya: Popular With the Kids!

Namae ga Nai Pan-ya (A Bakery with No Name) started as a store where children can buy bread with their allowance. All products, with the exception of sandwich bread, cost no more than 200 yen.

Fried bread, Kouign-amann, along with seasonal vegetable buns filled with zunda or pumpkin paste, are the popular products. This is a bakery for people of all ages.

The breads are freshly baked with Hokkaido wheat. Be sure to check them as a snack, or a souvenir.

[place_master_id=17142 show_photos embed]

Omusubi Kororin: A Specialty Shop Using Local Rice

Omusubi Kororin, which opened in 2025, is a specialty store offering onigiri (omusubi) made with Mikasa rice.

They serve periodic menus such as autumn salmon and butter omusubi, or seaweed rice and salted mackerel omusubi, along with seasonal miso soups, which can be purchased as a set menu.

This local cuisine is ideal for a snack or breakfast. Omusubi Kororin runs as a food truck with its location and business hours posted on their Instagram account.

[place_master_id=17143 show_photos embed]

Amaimono Club: Freshly Prepared Homemade Treats

Amaimono Club, which opened in 2021, is managed by the patissier Sota Tanaka. The colorful, cute meringue cookies, which have a soft, melting texture, are popular items sold at the event.

Their physical store also offers kamayaki pudding, made with Hokkaido products, and financier, which is perfect for a souvenir. In the daytime, Amaimono Club serves snacks, coffee and tea, while serving liquor and light meals at night.

[place_master_id=17165 show_photos embed]

Visit Ichikishiri Shrine Before the Festivities

From Mikasa Chuo park, it is a 15 minute walk to Ichikishiri Shrine. Ichikishiri is the former place name for Mikasa.

In the Meiji Period, it started from a small shrine in the pioneer days of Hokkaido, and developed as the guardian deity of the area. The main building and the torii gate stand out against the backdrop of lush trees and flowers.

A sacred forest, a place to welcome the deities, stands behind the shrine. It is famous as a forest where owls raise their chicks, so if the time is right, visitors may be able to enjoy birdwatching.

Before the worship, be sure to follow the procedure mentioned below, at the chozu-ya.

1. Use the water ladle with your right hand and wash your left hand.

2. Wash your right hand with the ladle in the left.

3. Use the ladle with your right hand again, pour some water into your left hand, and rinse your mouth.

4. Wash your left hand one more time and cleanse the ladle handle.

During certain seasons, flowers may be floating on the water basin, which is a sight to behold.

Two bows, two claps, and one bow is the formal way to worship. The procedure consists of two deep bows, two loud hand claps in front of the chest, a prayer with eyes closed, and another deep bow at the end.

A visit to the shrine will surely cleanse and calm one's mind. Don't forget to drop by before joining the Bon odori.

Mikasa City Museum: Experience a World from 100 Million Years Ago

The Mikasa City Museum, which boasts one of the largest ammonite collections in Japan, is a must-visit spot for those visiting on a day trip. There are about 3,000 materials, including exhibitions regarding the city's history, approximately 600 ammonite samples, and a fossil of Ezo Mikasa-ryu (an ancient reptile), which is designated by the Japanese government as a natural monument.

Mikasa City is certified by the Japanese Geoparks Network. The city is well-known as the spot to experience a 100 million years of time in strata, from the Cretaceous Period (about 100 million years ago) to the modern, coal-mining days.

Stratum is crucial to any discussion of Mikasa. The ammonites, which used to swim in the sea, can be found from the 100 million years old stratum, and coal was mined from the 50 million years old stratum.

Step outside the museum and visitors can see actual strata, along with the former Ponbetsu Coal Mine. They can also experience a time trip to 100 million years ago. Please note that some areas are restricted to the public.

The Bon odori is the legacy of the coal miners, who danced during their short vacation. With the knowledge of the strata from the museum, visitors joining the dance will be able to experience Mikasa's culture even more deeply.

Enjoy the Japanese Summer in Mikasa

A trip to Mikasa offers a history tour of coal mining spanning 110 years, ammonites from 100 million years ago, and unique local cuisines. At the end, visitors can join the Mikasa Hokkai Bon Odori, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with the locals that will bring you smiles.

Mikasa, only an hour drive away from Sapporo, can be accessed easily. Take a summer trip to the city this year to enjoy the regional dishes and a Bon odori event accompanied by live music. It will liven both the mind and body.

Sponsored by Mikasa City Board of Education

Okayama Prefecture Official Tourism Site

Okayama is home to many beautiful and tasteful historical buildings that were built between the Meiji period (1868-1912) and the Taisho period (1912-1926). Some are elegant, some stately, some exude warmth - the beautiful appearance of each building continues to fascinate us. This time, we visited five of Okayama Prefecture's modern buildings: Renaiss Hall, Okayama Temperance Hall, Hotaru Children's Library, Hakkaku Ensha, and the Former Okayama Kaikōsha. Why not join us in taking a look at the "timeless beauty" that each building speaks of?

• Table of Contents
• Former Bank of Japan Okayama Branch (Renaiss Hall) | A majestic bank building reminiscent of ancient Roman architecture
• Okayama Temperance Hall | A historic building built 100 years ago as a base for the temperance movement
• Hotaru Children's Library| A warm and welcoming library renovated from a Meiji-era elementary school building
• Former Kyokuto Kindergarten Hakkaku Ensha| A rare octagonal kindergarten building in the world
• Former Okayama Kaikōsha(General Ground Club) | An elegant Western-style building used as a social gathering place for army officers

Former Bank of Japan Okayama Branch (Renaiss Hall) | A majestic bank building reminiscent of ancient Roman architecture

Renaiss Hall is the former Okayama branch of the Bank of Japan, completed in 1922 (Taisho 11). It was designed by architect Nagano Uheiji, who was known as a leading figure in bank architecture at the time. Today, the building is known as "Renaiss Hall," and is used as a multi-purpose cultural facility for concerts, lectures, weddings, and more.

The impressive, majestic facade is reminiscent of the Maison Carrée in France (an ancient Roman temple) or the Pantheon in Rome. The building uses "entasis columns" (a technique from ancient Greek architecture), where the middle section of the column bulges slightly, and the capitals are decorated with Corinthian-style acanthus leaf motifs (a plant native to the Mediterranean). You can't help but stare at the gorgeous, stately architecture.

Location, access, and holidays

[Renaiss Hall (Okayama, former Bank of Japan Hall)]

Address: 1-6-20 Uchisange , Kita Ward, Okayama City Okayama Prefecture

TEL: 086-225-3003

Closed: Tuesdays (or the following day if Tuesday is a public holiday), New Year's holidays, and maintenance and inspection days

Access by car: Approximately 25 minutes from Okayama IC on the Sanyo Expressway

Access by public transport: Take the streetcar (towards Mount Higashiyama ) from JR Okayama Station for about 10 minutes and get off at "Kencho-dori" stop

Parking: None

Renaiss Hall| Official website

Okayama Temperance Hall | A historic building built 100 years ago as a base for the temperance movement

Okayama Temperance Hall Hall is located about a five-minute walk from Renaiss Hall . It was built in 1923 (Taisho 12), but the architect is unknown. Its distinctive exterior features a combination of "German walls," characterized by uneven surfaces created by spraying mortar onto the wall with a special tool, and white tile. It is a three-story wooden building with a hipped roof that slopes in all four directions, and the slate roof (thin sheet roofing material) is treated to create a ragged-gable roof on the third floor. It is a valuable building that survived the Okayama air raids of 1945 ( Showa 20) (air raids during World War II). It was designated a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property in September 2002 (Heisei 14).

This building, with its striking sign reading "Temperance Hall," is the only one of the nation's temperance facilities that dates back to before the war. At the time, social unrest and a worsening economy meant that an increasing number of people were turning to alcohol. For this reason, it was built as a base for the temperance movement (a social movement to abstain from alcohol). In recent years, "sober curious" (a lifestyle that deliberately avoids alcohol) has been gaining attention worldwide. Although times have changed, social unrest and health concerns remain a driving force behind people's reexamination of their drinking habits. The Okayama Temperance Hall, which embraced this theme over 100 years ago, may have been a building that was ahead of its time.

Currently, the first floor houses a bookstore and cafe selling Christian books, while the second and third floors are used as a gallery and offices. The accessory shop on the third floor sells handmade accessories made with materials from Okayama, as well as Temperance Hall merchandise, so be sure to stop by.

Location, access, and holidays

[Okayama Temperance Hall ]

Address: 1-1-15 Marunouchi, Kita-ku, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture Kita Ward

TEL: 086-222-6297 (Okayama Temperance Hall)

Business hours: 8:00-22:00 *Varies by facility.

Closed: Mondays *Depending on the facility

Access by car: Approximately 20 minutes from Okayama IC on the Sanyo Expressway

Access by public transport: Take the streetcar (towards Mount Higashiyama ) from JR Okayama Station for about 10 minutes and get off at Shiroshita Station

Or, about a 20-minute walk from JR Okayama Station

Parking: None

Okayama Temperance Hall| Official website

Hotaru Children's Library| A warm and welcoming library renovated from a Meiji-era elementary school building

"Hotaru Children's Library" was built in 1910 (Meiji 43) in Okayama Prefecture cho, Kumenan Town, Kume District as Akasaka Higher Elementary School (an elementary school at the time). It was designed by architect Egawa Saburohachi, who has worked on many school buildings in Okayama Prefecture. It is a two-story wooden building with a hipped roof, with a single-story building attached to the left. The relief (decorative relief) is the chrysanthemum crest, named after Akasaka Castle, built by Kusunoki Masashige (a military commander from the end of the Kamakura period to the Nanboku-cho period). Incidentally, although it may appear to be the main entrance at first glance, the actual entrance is on the left.

It is currently used as the "Hotaru Children's Library," where children can freely enjoy books. Of course, it is also open to university students and adults. Furnished with antique chairs and hanging chairs (chairs hanging from the ceiling), it is a space that combines the atmosphere of a stylish cafe with elements that will excite children.

One of the highlights inside is the large mural. This is a replica of the mural (on the east side) painted in 1949 by the famous Japanese artist Genichiro Inokuma. It was created in full size by students from Marugame High School, the predecessor to Inokuma's alma mater, for a special exhibition in 2021.

Location, access, and holidays

[Hotaru Children's Library ]

Address: 1434-7 Umaya , Akaiwa City, Okayama Prefecture

TEL: None

Opening hours: Wednesday to Saturday, 11:00 to 16:00

Closed: Sunday to Tuesday, Golden Week, Obon, New Year's holidays, and book sorting periods

Nearest bus stop: Umayashita on the Uno Bus Mimasaka Line

Parking: Available (free)

Hotaru Children's Library| Official website

Former Kyokuto Kindergarten Hakkaku Ensha| A rare octagonal kindergarten building in the world

The "Hakkaku Ensha" was the kindergarten attached to Okayama City Asahito Elementary School, completed in 1908 (Meiji 41), and is a nationally designated Important Cultural Property that was relocated and restored to its current location in 1998 (Heisei 10). It was designed by architect Egawa Saburohachi, who also designed the former Akasaka Elementary School, which is home to the "Hotaru Children's Library." It is a valuable building, being the first kindergarten building in Japan to be designated an Important Cultural Property.

The structure is a single-story wooden building with a tiled roof, and is characterized by a plum blossom-shaped floor plan with a regular octagonal playroom in the Chuo and gabled nursery rooms on all four sides. The octagonal shape is rare worldwide, making it a valuable presence in the history of modern Japanese educational architecture. The exterior is a pseudo-Western style (Western-style Japanese architecture) seen in the early Meiji period, with white walls and pink wooden doors and window frames creating a warm and beautiful atmosphere. After being relocated and restored, it is now stocked with picture books and toys, creating a space where children can use it safely while enjoying this historical cultural asset.

Location, access, and holidays

[Hakkaku Ensha]

Address: 56 Futsukaichi-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama Prefecture Okayama City Kita Ward(within the grounds of Okayama City Chuo Library)

TEL: 086-226-2434

Opening hours: 9:30-16:30 (interior tours available until 16:15)

Closed: Mondays, second Sundays, public holidays (if Monday is a public holiday, the following day will also be closed), New Year's holidays (December 28th to January 4th)

Access by car: Approximately 30 minutes from Okayama IC on the Sanyo Expressway. Or approximately 25 minutes from Kimitsu IC on the Okayama Blue Line.

Access by public transport: Take the bus from JR Okayama Station to Okayama Airport (approx. 15 minutes) and get off at "Okayama Minami Eigyosho" bus stop, then walk for approx. 5 minutes

Parking: Okayama City Chuo Library Parking Lot No. 3 (free for up to 90 minutes, 100 yen per hour for any additional minutes)

Cultural Heritage Online (Agency for Cultural Affairs official website)

Former Okayama Kaikōsha(General Ground Club) | An elegant Western-style building used as a social gathering place for army officers

The Former Okayama Kaikōsha was built in 1910 (Meiji 43) as a social gathering place for army officers (senior officers in the former Japanese military). Kaikosha were military clubs established at division (military unit) locations across the country, and were used to deepen friendships among officers as well as for military research and improving their education. Okayama's Kaikosha was also a place where officers from the 17th Division gathered. The building has a hipped roof and a tiled roof, and the front veranda is elegantly supported by Ionic-style (ancient Greek architectural style) columns. As a modern Western-style building representative of the late Meiji period, it is now designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property. On the day we visited, an event was being held and the building was bustling with people.

The interior is also gorgeous, with elegant decorations adorning the grounds. Stepping inside, you'll be thrilled by the beautiful space, which exudes the elegance of the Meiji era. It was also used as a filming location for the popular NHK morning drama series "Kumkum Everybody," bringing renewed attention to its classical beauty. It is currently preserved as the Okayama Prefecture General Ground Club (Former Okayama Kaikōsha), and the exterior is open to the public. The first floor houses a cafe, and the second floor houses a training room. The Okayama Prefecture General Ground is also home to the JFE Harenokuni Stadium, home to the Fagiano OKAYAMA team of the J.League (Japan's professional soccer league), and Shigetō Arena Okayama , home to the Okayama Seagulls of the SV League (Japan's professional volleyball league) and Tri-Hoop Okayama of the B.League (Japan's professional basketball league). Stop by after a sporting event.

Location, access, and holidays

[ Former Okayama Kaikōsha (General Ground Club)]

Address: 2-1-4 Izumicho , Kita Ward, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture Prefecture

TEL: 086-253-3944

Access by car: Approximately 10 minutes from Okayama IC on the Sanyo Expressway

Access by public transport: Approximately 20 minutes on foot from the Athletic Park Exit (West Exit) of JR Okayama Station

Parking: Parking Lot 1 (255 cars), Parking Lot 2 (130 cars), Parking Lot 3 (95 cars) (free for up to 30 minutes, 100 yen per hour for any additional minutes)

Okayama Prefecture General Ground | Official website

Okayama Prefecture Official Tourism Site

The spots we will introduce this time are relatively easy to access from famous tourist destinations, so be sure to stop by when you visit Okayama.

• Table of Contents
• 1. Anaishi Shrine (Setouchi City): A tranquil seaside shrine with a hidden feel
• 2. Anaba Inari Shrine (Kurashiki City): A spectacular view of the Seto and a group of red torii gates
• 3. Tatsuchi no Uranimasu Shrine (Kurashiki City): A historic shrine that has also been featured in anime
• summary

1. Anaishi Shrine (Setouchi City): A tranquil seaside shrine with a hidden feel

The first place we'll introduce is Anaishi Shrine in Setouchi City. This shrine is located on a quiet coastline in the southeastern part of the city, and is rarely visited by ordinary tourists, making it a truly "hidden" spot. In a small cove visible through the trees, an old torii gate, exuding a sense of history, stands quietly.

The road to the shrine is very narrow, so we recommend traveling by compact car (kei car in Japan), motorcycle, or electric bicycle. You will need to walk down to the beach at the end. Be careful not to miss the small footpath beside the road.

After descending the zigzag slope, you will arrive at a beautiful beach. This beach is the approach to the shrine, and the pristine coastline is so quiet and refreshing that it will soothe your soul.

The plants create a tropical atmosphere, reminiscent of the coasts of Okinawa and other Nansei Islands. The colorful stones that have washed up on the beach also create a very mystical impression.

The reason there are so many driftwood here is probably because it is a place where things tend to wash up easily. Since ancient times in Japan, there has been a belief that unusual driftwood from the sea is worshipped as a god, so shrines and temples are often built on coasts like this.

The view of the Harima Nada(part of the Seto Naikai) from this beach is both picturesque and majestic. The Ieshima Islands floating faintly offshore look fantastical, like a mirage.

It takes a little time to get there, but it's not too far from Ushimado(a famous tourist spot in Okayama), so we recommend combining your visit with sightseeing in Ushimado.

2. Anaba Inari Shrine (Kurashiki City): A spectacular view of the Seto and a group of red torii gates

Next on our list is a shrine called "Anaba Inari." You can enjoy the mystical sight of a row of red torii gates and a spectacular view of the Seto Naikai . Located in Shimotsui , Kurashiki City , it's easily accessible from the Mt. Washuzan Skyline, so be sure to stop by when sightseeing at the Seto.

The approach to the shrine is quite a steep climb. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and sneakers, or at least hiking gear. The steep slope is like a cliff, so it may be a bit difficult for those with a fear of heights.

The three torii gates each face in a different direction, giving you the mysterious feeling of being lost in another world.

Most observation spots for the Seto allow you to look up at the bridge from below or down from above, but this is a rare spot where you can see the cars and trains traveling on the bridge from the same height.

It takes a relatively short time to reach the worship hall (the building where you pray), but there is a long and steep climb to the inner sanctuary (the Oku part of the shrine).However, once you have climbed hard and are looking back, you will be rewarded with a spectacular view.

The plaza and parking lot you can see below is Tadotsuura Park, a spectacular spot where you can look up at the gigantic Seto from directly below.

At the top of the climb, you will find the inner shrine of "Anaba Inari," where you will find an adorable Inari (fox god) enshrined within a rock formation that appears to be an iwakura (a huge rock where a god is said to reside).

3. Tatsuchi no Uranimasu Shrine (Kurashiki City): A historic shrine that has also been featured in anime

Just hearing this beautiful name makes you want to visit the shrine to see what it's like.

It is located in Shimotsui , Kurashiki City , on the opposite side of the Seto from Anaba Inari. From here, you can also see the beautiful islands of the Seto Naikai(a beautiful landscape created by the many islands) and the impressive Seto.

In the animated film "Napping Princess: The Story of the Unknown Me," released in 2017, the main characters are set to live in Shimotsui, and the surrounding scenery appears many times throughout the film. The film is set in 2020 and focuses on autonomous driving, with content that seems to foreshadow current technological developments. It is available to watch on video streaming sites, so if you're interested, be sure to check it out.

Beyond the torii gate, the quaint scenery of an old Port town spreads out before you. In the movie, the main character runs down these stairs to the bus stop and weaves his way through the narrow alleys between houses, which is vividly depicted. Mitsuki Takahata, who voices the main character, speaks in the charming Okayama dialect, which makes the Okayama worth watching just for that.

summary

Whenever I come across a scene of the sea and torii gates while traveling, I can't help but stop and stare in awe. It's not just a beautiful sight, but it also moves me to think of the history of the people of that area who have continued to cherish and protect nature and traditions for a long time.

Finally, as a special feature, we will introduce Takashima Shrine in Minami Minami Ward , Okayama City . The shrine is located on Takashima , the most likely site for Kibi Takashima Palace, where Emperor Jimmu, the first emperor of Japan, is said to have lived for eight years, and is located on an isolated island in Kojima . As there are no regular ferries and the shrine faces out to sea, the only way to visit is to charter a boat yourself or to worship from the worship site (a place where you can worship the shrine from afar) on the opposite shore.

However, there is one special way to get there: by taking the ferry bound for Shodoshima , which departs from Okayama Port. From the ferry, you can see the torii gate and shrine building directly in front of you, making for a truly mystical worship experience from the sea. If you're visiting Shodoshima from Okayama Port, be sure not to miss Takashima Shrine.

Visit these hidden shrines and experience the beauty of the Seto Naikai and Japan's ancient religious culture for yourself. It's sure to become an unforgettable memory of your trip.

• Table of Contents
• Kumano Hongu Taisha
• Festivals at the Kumano Hongu Taisha
• Yatagarasu Fire Festival
• A Deep Prayer Through Visiting All Three Shrines

Kumano Hongu Taisha

A Sacred Site of Rebirth

According to legend, when Emperor Jimmu (known as Kamuyamato Iwarehiko no Mikoto before ascending to the throne) was on his eastern expedition, he received the heavenly sword "Futsunomitama" from Takakuraji, the son of Kumano's ancestral deity.

With this sword, he overcame adversity and eventually triumphed in battle in the Yamato Province (present-day Nara Prefecture)

Later around 33 BCE, three moons descended upon a sandbank in the Kumano River called "Oyunohara". One proclaimed, "I am Shōjō Daigongen (Ketumi Mikogami = Susanoo-no-Mikoto), and the two moons beside me are Ryōsho Gongen (Kumano Fusumi no Ōkami and Hayatama no Ōkami). Build a shrine and enshrine us." This divine command led to the construction of the first Kumano Hongu Taisha shrine. 

As time passed, around the 4th century (estimated), descendants of the Takakuraji assumed the role of Kumano Kokuzō, the chief of the Kumano province. From then on, the deities of Kumano Hongu Taisha were worshipped and protected by the Kokuzō family for over a thousand years. The twelve enshrined deities are divided among three shrines: Upper, Middle, and Lower.

However, the original shrine buildings at Oyunohara were damaged by a major flood in 1889 (Meiji 22), and the upper four shrines were relocated to their current elevated site. The remaining eight shrines are still quietly enshrined at the original site as stone altars.

Kumano Hongu Taisha (Current Site | Shrine Buildings) © Wakayama Prefecture Tourism Federation

Annual Festival © Wakayama Prefecture Tourism Federation

Even today, many worshippers still visit the original site at Oyunohara. Major rituals, including the annual grand festival, are still held there.

[ In Spring, Oyunohara is also a popular Cherry Blossom Viewing Spot in Wakayama Prefecture. ]

For more details, please visit the Kumano Hongu website (JP/ENG)

Festivals at the Kumano Hongu Taisha

Held in Spring, this is the shrine's most important festival. Over three-days, sacred rituals and lively processions take place.

Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Festival (April 13-15)

This spring festival is the most important festival at Kumano Motomiya Shrine, and is a three-day event featuring sacred ceremonies and lively processions.

Annual Festival © Wakayama Prefecture Tourism Federation

It begins on April 13, with the Yunobori Ritual and Miyawatashi Ritual, where priests and children dressed as sacred messengers walk the ancient mountain path known as "Ōnichi-goe" towards Oyunohara. Along the way, they purify themselves and pray for the safety and peace of the festival. The children, considered as divine messengers, are carried on shoulders, creating a warm and sacred place.

On April 14, various prayer ceremonies and a vigil are held, leading up to the main festival on April 15.

During the Main Shrine Ritual on April 15, the virtues of the principal deity Kumano Fusumi no Kami are honored, and prayers are offered for national peace and the well-being of the people. This is followed by the Procession Ritual, where the deity's sacred object is placed in a portable shrine and transferred to Oyunohara.

At the original site, performances of dance and music take place, and the festival reaches its most vibrant state.

Annual Festival ©Roots of Japan

In the latter half of the Procession Ritual, ascetic monks perform the fire rituals and mochi throwing. The mochi come in white and red varieties, and those who catch a red mochi receive a "Chōbana".

The "Chōbana" is a decorative flower resembling a chrysanthemum and is considered a lucky charm symbolizing bountiful harvests and good health. The festive moment leaves a lasting impression on participants.

Annual Festival ©Roots of Japan

Yatagarasu Fire Festival

Although not hosted by the Kumano Hongu Taisha itself, this event is organized by Hongu Town, and held at the sacred site of Oyunohara, with the shrine's cooperation. Featuring fire, drums, and fireworks, it creates a powerful and mystical atmosphere that captivates many attendees each autumn.
*In 2025, the event will be held on Saturday, October 11th from 5:00 PM

Yatagarasu Fire Festival © Kumano Hongu Tourism Association

Inspired by the legend of the Yatagarasu, the sacred crow that guided Emperor Jimmu when he was lost in the mountains of Kumano, this festival is said to "Guide the people to Happiness".

For details on festivals and events, click here (JP/ENG)

A Deep Prayer Through Visiting All Three Shrines

After visiting Kumano Hongu Taisha, be sure to also visit the Kumano Hayatama Taisha, Kumano Nachi Taisha, and Seiganto-ji to complete the pilgrimage to the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano.

By walking the Kumano Kodo, a path travelled by countless pilgrims since ancient times, you'll experience Kumano not just as a tourist destination, but as a land of spiritual rebirth.

↓ Kumano Sanzan series