Posts
Atsuko here.
Small Travel Recommendations.
Last week, a coworker gave me some Osaka Expo snacks as a souvenir from her summer vacation trip. I asked her what she enjoyed the most at the Osaka Expo and she answered the post office. She told me that she had stamped the stamps from the Osaka Expo.
I asked her why the post office. She told me that they had stamped the stamp of the Osaka Expo. It was a landscape stamp, a date stamp with a landscape design unique to that post office. She showed me her collection of stamps and I was so impressed with the beauty of the stamps that I will share them with you.
It is wonderful that it contains various places, specialties, and history.
To get a landscape stamp, you have to go to the post office and ask the staff to stamp a landscape stamp. Or, you can send a return postcard to the post office of your choice and ask them to stamp it with a landscape stamp.
It is a small trip around the nearby post offices, but I think you will make a nice collection.
ଘ(੭ˊ꒳ˋ)੭✧
風景印 Huukei in
https://www.post.japanpost.jp/kitte_hagaki/stamp/fuke/result_pre.php?pref_id=43
Kirk here. Atsuko's post about Amakusa reminded me of this bit of news from RKK. Even if you don't understand Japanese, the combination of the English text and the images in the video should give you a clear idea of what's nice about the Ryugatake Summit Natural Park (which I've never been to yet myself).
=== start ChatGPT translation of Japanese article ===
Headline:
“The Best Starry Sky in Japan” Should Be Seen from the Summit of Mt. Ryugatake! How ‘Mountain Amakusa’ Doubled Its Revenue and Offers More than Just the Sea — Kumamoto
Date:
Saturday, August 23, 2025, 9:00 AM
Exploring the Natural Park at the Summit of Mt. Ryugatake in Kami-Amakusa, Kumamoto
We visited a breathtaking natural park in Ryugatake, Kami-Amakusa City, Kumamoto Prefecture—an attraction that has revitalized the town’s tourism resources and reportedly doubled its revenue by drawing in visitors.
A Place Where “Half the Facilities Couldn’t Be Used”
Located about two and a half hours by car from central Kumamoto City, the Ryugatake Summit Natural Park sits atop Mt. Ryugatake at an elevation of 470 meters.
This expansive site includes campgrounds with tent sites, lodges, and bungalows, as well as rare facilities such as an astronomical observatory where visitors can observe stars and celestial bodies.
Originally operated by Kami-Amakusa City, the park’s management was transferred three years ago to a company based in Uki City that runs restaurant businesses, as part of its business expansion. Staff member Akinori Miura took over operations.
Miura, Park Manager:
“Previously, half the lodging facilities couldn’t even be used, and the management building was little more than a reception area—not a welcoming space. So we renovated everything to ensure the campground facilities could all be used. We want to contribute to the development of Ryugatake and Kami-Amakusa by running this park, so we work hard every day.”
A Bold Initiative: Next-Generation Vehicles
In an effort to increase visitors, Miura began an unprecedented new initiative.
Miura:
“Our highlight is definitely this. We’ve brought in Segways.”
That’s right—the park introduced Segways and other next-generation vehicles. Facilities where visitors can ride Segways are rare in Kumamoto, making this park a unique attraction where anyone can try them out casually.
Miura:
“When we took on the park’s management, I wanted to do something in Amakusa that no one else was doing. That’s why we introduced Segways. I believe we’re the only ones offering this here.”
Since the Segways were introduced, tourists from both inside and outside the prefecture have increased. This unique initiative has drawn people to the park and contributed to revitalizing the region.
Miura:
“Since we became the managers, both revenue and visitor numbers have more than doubled.”
Enjoying Japan’s Best Starry Sky
Another highlight of the park is Myui Observatory, a valuable tourism resource for the town. Inside, visitors can enjoy planetarium shows and enchanting exhibits featuring constellations and planets glowing under black light.
By making better use of such facilities, the hidden value of the park has become clear.
Outside, stargazing sessions with small telescopes are also held. Ryugatake was once selected by Japan’s Ministry of the Environment as having the “Best Starry Sky in Japan.” Surrounded by pristine nature, the chance to gaze at such a beautiful night sky has become one of the park’s biggest draws.
Junki Kitamoto, Observatory Staff:
“I’d like as many people as possible to see this and share in its beauty.”
More Spectacular Views of “Mountains and Sea”
The starry sky isn’t the only attraction. From the observation deck near the observatory, visitors can take in sweeping panoramic views of the Amakusa Islands and the Yatsushiro Sea.
Miura:
“I hope people who see Amakusa’s mountains and sea from here will be inspired to protect our natural environment.”
The park also features attractions like a power spot—a massive rock with a heart-shaped hollow, popular with couples. With such hidden potential appealing to diverse visitors, Ryugatake Summit Natural Park continues to evolve.
Miura:
“When people think of Amakusa, they often picture the sea and fishing. But here at the summit, you can also enjoy camping and stargazing. Please come visit—we’re waiting for you.”
「日本一の星空」は龍ヶ岳山頂から見るべし！売り上げを2倍にした、海だけじゃない「山の天草」の楽しませ方 熊本 | 熊本のニュース｜RKK NEWS｜RKK熊本放送
熊本県上天草市の龍ヶ岳にある、絶景の自然公園に潜入！町の観光資源を蘇らせて「売り上げが2倍以上になった」という、観光客を呼び込む注目スポットを取材しました。熊本市内から車で約2時間30分。上天草市にある…
Dear Amakusa Mogushi, Onikizaki fans.
Amakusa is fine. I went there for the first time last Sunday.
Kumamoto's summer recommendations.
I visited Mogushi Beach and Onikizaki Beach in Ushibuka-cho, Amakusa City for the first time.
Migushi is very famous and I had heard for a long time that the sea is very beautiful, but this was my first time there.
Last Sunday, the effects of the heavy rain had been completely repaired, and I arrived at Mokushi in two and a half hours from Kumamoto City without any traffic jams or traffic restrictions.
The sea of both Mokushi and Onikizaki were very beautiful and full of red, blue, orange, and striped tropical fish. Unfortunately I didn't bring my underwater camera, but I enjoyed snorkeling for 5 hours.
Summer is the season in Amakusa. However, it is a waste of time this year because of cancellations due to the flood.
Roads and stores are recovering.
Please enjoy the summer in Amakusa a lot!
Atsuko (ﾉ≧∀≦)ﾉ
Mogushi 茂串
https://www-t-island-jp-e.athp.transer.com/spot/14
Onikizaki 魚貫崎
https://www-t-island-jp-e.athp.transer.com/spot/16
Kirk here. When a falling star is very bright it can be called a "fireball" (火球; kakyuu). Well, a very bright one fell near Kyushu last night. Kagoshima and Nagasaki had some cool shots (most news reports feature those) but this video has the best I've seen from Kumamoto.
Anyone out there notice it in real time?
目撃情報が相次いだ大きな流れ星『火球』ＴＫＵの情報カメラでも【熊本】 (25/08/20 19:00)
夜空を照らすひと筋の光、熊本でも見られました。九州など西日本の各地で１９日夜、目撃情報が相次いだ大きな流れ星『火球』。ＴＫＵの情報カメラでも昼間のように空が明るくなりました。これは、１９日午後１１時す...
One of my favorite cartoons depicts a foreign jogger sweating through the heat. A bystander remarks, "Henna gaijin," to which is companion replies, "Isn't that redundant?" - William
We've got a typhoonette coming. - William
Kirk here. It's been a while since I've visited this tunnel. It's not my favorite place in the Aso area but it's cool inside and kind of unique. Might be good to put it on your itinerary if you're going to in the area. :)
William has written a couple of times about the history of the tunnel (originally planned as a train tunnel but project abandoned). I'll post links to to those posts in a comment.
Kumamoto: Tanabata Festival Decorations Adorn Unique Tunnel
TAKAMORI, Kumamoto — Step into a world where vibrant colors meet refreshing coolness. An array of colorful Tanabata decorations offers a unique summer escape in a park located in a tunnel in Takamori, Kumamoto Prefecture.
Kirk here with a heads up for high school baseball fans. Kumamoto's representative plays their second game in the Koshien elimination tournament today. Should be exciting.
Go Tokai Dai Kumamoto Seisho!!
https://koshien.hanshin.co.jp/
P.S. Here's a translation of a Kumanichi article about the first game. I haven't found anything in English but the Japanese media covered how the supporters could get to the game because of the rain Monday. They are SURE to be there today!
=== start ChatGPT translation ===
Summer Koshien 2025, First Round – Tokai University Seisho 10–7 Hokkai
Absent due to heavy rain – “For the Seisho students too”… Support from an affiliated school helps secure their first Koshien win
August 13 (Wed) 14:59
Photo caption:
Third-year members of Tokai University Seisho High School’s baseball team cheering from the Alps stands. The empty seats behind them were meant to be filled by first- and second-year students. – August 11, Koshien Stadium
“Well done!” “We’re counting on you next time!” On August 11, Kumamoto Prefecture’s representative, Tokai University Seisho High School, defeated Hokkai High School (Southern Hokkaido) 10–7 in the first round of the National High School Baseball Championship, achieving their long-sought dream of a “first Koshien victory” on their fourth appearance. Due to heavy rains in Kumamoto, most current students were unable to attend, but more than 2,000 strong – made up of alumni, parents, and the brass band from affiliated Tokai University Gyosei High School (Osaka) – formed a massive cheering squad to support the team.
The game saw action from the start. In the top of the first, after the leadoff batter drew a walk, Seisho had runners on first and third with one out. Cleanup hitter Hoshi Teruki Ōga delivered an RBI single to put them ahead. His father, Satoshi (55, from Tamana City), smiled and said, “He did exactly what a cleanup hitter should do. I hope the whole team keeps this rhythm.”
In the fifth inning, Hokkai tied it at 3–3, and the Seisho cheering section’s atmosphere turned heavy. Still, the third-year players not in the dugout shouted encouragement like “Let’s just play as usual!” to lift their teammates.
The momentum swung back in the seventh. Seisho strung together hits to take a three-run lead. Then, with one out and runners on first and second, Nobuki Horita smashed a two-run triple to the left-center gap. His father, Shuhei (46, from Kikuchi City), said, “I think he showed the results of his training. I hope it’s the hit that seals the game.”
Hokkai fought back in the late innings, keeping the outcome uncertain, but Seisho held on to win by three runs. As the school song rang out at the sacred ground of high school baseball, parents and alumni in the stands raised towels emblazoned with the school’s name and sang in celebration.
About 140 first- and second-year baseball team members and brass band members had left Kumamoto by bus on the night of the 10th, heading for Koshien. However, heavy rains forced them to stop en route, and they gave up on cheering at the stadium. Third-year student Takeshi Fukue, the cheering squad leader who had already arrived on site, said, “Even with a small number, we want to do what we can.” Nao Hatta, a second-year member of Tokai University Gyosei’s brass band, said while wiping sweat, “We want to cheer for the Seisho students who wanted to come but couldn’t.”
Third-year manager Airi Ueshima comes from a “Seisho family,” with her father and siblings having been on the baseball team. Beaming after the school’s first Koshien victory, she said, “In the second round, I want to cheer with a large crowd, together with the first- and second-year members.”
(Reported by Takuma Sonoda)
=== end translation ===
https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/73050ce9acad99c2d886fdec70877d12e7846cfd
About collection of disaster garbage due to heavy rain damage.
I too have experienced flooding above floor level twice as a child. I know it's a lot to clean up, but hang in there. It's hot, so don't get dehydrated.
Atsuko ( ｰ̀֊ｰ́)و♡
Before you clean up the damage, you should take pictures of the damage (how deep it was, where it flooded, what was damaged). Information on the damage certificate was shared by Kirk also.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14EdTquXZhw/?mibextid=wwXIfr
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Kirk here. I complained about EVERYONE getting repeated midnight warnings and reports that gave the impression that everyone had to evacuate. But, it's also true that a lot of people were put in harm's way and quite a few suffered significant damage, particularly in the Tamana area.
If you are one of those whose property was damaged, you may be able to get compensation. Check out this page from the prefecture.
https://www.kuma-koku.jp/support-center/page375.html
The page also says that you may be able to receive compensation if your car was damaged.
Kirk here. In a comment I'll put a link to this video showing how Shimotori flooded yesterday. It was particularly sad for folks with shops below street level. :(
Fun fact: When Kato Kiyomasa built the castle, the Shirakawa flowed through this part of town. After he used the river to carry all those heavy boulders to the construction site, Kiyomasa diverted the flow, producing the state we know today. The diversion of the river was very successful and invaluable to the building of what we now know as downtown Kumamoto. But, even Kyomasa couldn't change the fact that Shimotori used to be a riverbed and, as such, is subject to flooding at times like this. Next time you walk down Shimotori look around and imagine how the street used to be a river. :)
Kirk here. I have found the quality of journalism in the Japan Times to be pretty good in the past but not so much so in this case. As I posted previously, it may be true that the "literal" message sent to millions of people was an "evacuation order." But, it's also true that most of the millions who were not in a flood plain and not near a steep incline had the good sense to stay put -- a point that the article doesn't explain.
Most social phenomenon observable in one country can be found to some extent in other countries. So, I assume that this "don't do what we say; do what we mean" type of communication is not unique to Japan. But, even after decades living here it still bugs me. It strikes me as part of a communication pattern where the bulk of the burden is on the recipient of a message to figure out the actual intent of the message sender (in such communication, the words used by the sender are important "clues" but may not always be taken at face value).
I'll put links to this Japan Times article and my previous post in a comment. If I put them in the body of my post the Facebook algorithm will give it a lower priority when deciding who to show it to. :(
Good morning.
Be careful.
Watch out for the rain, everyone.Atsuko(ง •̀_•́)ง
Kumamoto city River flood monitoring system.
https://city-kumamoto-pub.e-monitor.jp/city-kumamoto/.
https://www.nhk.or.jp/kishou-saigai/city/status/43100004310100/
Kirk here after a very long hiatus. The screenshot you see is from this website:
https://city-kumamoto.my.salesforce-sites.com/#
But don't panic; the "evacuation order" is very, very misleading -- despite the wording, we have not actually been ordered to evacuate.
Here's a post I made a long time ago that explains what this "evacuation order" REALLY means:
https://www.facebook.com/Kumamotoi/posts/pfbid02HaDrsnR5wfsRQzQZWQSmZZjHz7ndPxTRKx3PciVuRRVTsJtiPRhWspXfhBTTDJMrl
So, if you got up in the middle of the night because you were worried about your alarmist phone (mine was very noisy!), you can probably go back to sleep as long as you are not living on an incline (danger of landslides) or in a low lying area (danger of flooding). I'm in neither situation so I would prefer that my phone be quiet but, alas, I'm not sure if that is even an option.
A footnote about where I found the "evacuation" (which really means, evacuate IF you are in a dangerous place) information. It's being reported in the news but today I went to the city website:
https://www.city.kumamoto.jp/
This site has machine translation to English and other languages. In the information about evacuation centers I found this:
For more information, please visit the official website.
https://city-kumamoto.my.salesforce-sites.com/
Last Updated at 4:20 on August 11, 2025
This site is in Japanese but it provides links to other languages. The problem is that, in order to switch to English you have to be able to read "言語選択" (language selection) and "英語" (English). Folks who can't make sense of those kanji may be out of luck.
This issue of an "evacuation order" not really being an order is the same for Japanese and English. Whichever language you are reading, what the website tells you to do is not REALLY what you should do. If the 740,822 people subject to the "order" really did try to evacuate, that would cause its own disaster. Another issue is that 避難 (hinan; evacuation) isn't really "evacuation". The characters mean "avoid danger"; and, in Japanese, you can actually 避難する (hinan suru) at home!!
[Correction: I happened to be using a browser set to Japanese. If the default language of your browser is set to English, the indications from Google as to how to translate the page will be in English.]
So, in a situation where clarity and clear communication is needed, we have something of a house of mirrors: only those familiar with the system really understand what's going on.
Just so you know what the castle looks like when it is struck by lightning. - William
Sharing information for children from abroad and their mothers and fathers.Atsuko (* 'ᵕ' )☆
ーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーー
We are pleased to announce the August 2025 schedule for “Orugated Kids,” a study group for children from abroad and their mothers and fathers.
At “Orugated Kids”, children can learn how to pronounce and use Japanese correctly, and mothers and fathers can consult with the children about things they don't understand or worry about at kindergarten or school.
The program is open to children between the ages of 5 and 8 and their mothers and fathers (guardians).
https://www.kumamoto-if.or.jp/plaza/kiji0032290/3_2290_6459_up_qgvuh3rb.pdf
https://www.kumamoto-if.or.jp/plaza/kiji0032290/index.html
The argument over rebuilding Kumamoto City Hall is ridiculous.
Here is my hometown city hall. Notice the dates. - William
