Topics 2015

Participate in Itoigawa's Sai no Kami Festivals!

Sai no Kami is a New Year's festival held in local communities throughout Japan. It is known by many names including Dondo-yaki and Sagicho.

Over 60 separate Sai no Kami festivals are held in Itoigawa in January and February. They vary from region to region in their size, purpose, and style, with some festivals including unusual events or methods of lighting the Sai no Kami pyre.

Many of these festivals welcome visitors to watch the festival or even participate in the preparation and festivities. Why not take this opportunity to get to know the local communities that make up our Geopark?

For more information, visit our new Sai no Kami festival site:
http://sainokami.geo-itoigawa.com/en/
   
Posted:2015/12/15

Page Top

Geopark Facility Closures

◇Fossa Magna Park
The Fossa Magna Park, where the Itoigawa-Shizuoka Tectonic Line can be seen up close, will be closed for the winter season until Mid April 2016.

◇Fossil Valley
Fossil Valley, the outdoor fossil hunting activity center beside the Fossa Magna Museum, will be closed for the winter season until Mid April 2016.
   
Posted:2015/12/01

Page Top

Itoigawa UNESCO Global Geopark is Born!

On Nov. 18, the UNESCO General Conference officially announced that the Global Geopark Program would become an official UNESCO program.

Until now, Global Geoparks have only been a supported program, so we hope with this strengthened relationship, we can see further popularity for and familiarity with Global Geopark activities throughout the world.

We will from this point onward be known officially as the Itoigawa UNESCO Global Geopark.
   
Posted:2015/11/18

Page Top

【12/5】 UX Niigata TV 21 - Marudori "Itoigawa's Hidden Beauty"

On December 5th (Sat), UX Niigata TV 21's morning show "Marudori" will introduce the Itoigawa Geopark in its new corner, "Hikkomi Jiman," a segment dedicated to uncovering hidden beauty in Niigata Prefecture. If you're in Niigata Prefecture, be sure to tune in!
◇Program Name
 Marudori! Hikkomi Jiman
◇Station
 UX Niigata TV 21
◇Time
 5 Dec (Sat) 9:30 a.m.
www.uxtv.jp/marudori/
   
Posted:2015/12/01

Page Top

【12/5-6】 GeoTour - Why is Japan's scenery so beautiful?

Visit Northern Nagano Prefecture and explore the nature and history of Japan's beautiful scenery.

◇Time: Dec. 5 (Sat) to 6 (Sun) ※Overnight Stay※
◇Must be age 10 or up to join. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by a guardian.
※Transportation is by bus. There will be no heavy hiking or climbing.
◇Fee: 10,000 yen (boarding, materials, and insurance fee)
◇Limit 20
◇Contact the Fossa Magna Museum for more information.
   
Posted:2015/11/05

Page Top

【11/21】 Geo Lecture - Genetics of the Japanese Macaque: What kind of monkey are the Itoigawa troops?

Learn about the Japanese Macaques that live in and around the Itoigawa Geopark.

◇Time: Nov 21 (Sat) 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
◇Place: Omi Cultural Hall (4657-3 Oumi, Itoigawa) 2nd Floor
◇Lecturer: Hiroshi Yashiki (Japan Mammal Society)
◇Entrance free, no regisration necessary
   
Posted:2015/11/05

Page Top

【11/18】 Itoigawa Geopark GeoStudies Conference 2015

Children and students from 15 Itoigawa schools (12 elementary, 2 junior high, 1 high school) will meet to report on what they have discovered about their home and their Geopark.

◇Time: Nov 18 (Wed) 9:30 a.m. - 3:50 p.m.
◇Place: Beach Hall Magatama (4-3-1 Teramachi, Itoigawa)
http://www.city.itoigawa.lg.jp/item/13498.htm#ContentPane
   
Posted:2015/11/05

Page Top

【11/3】 Geopark Tour (Kotaki-Odokoro)

Explore the natural beech and cedar forests of the Kotaki and Odokoro Districts.
Wear clothing appropriate for light hiking.

◇Time: Nov. 3 (Tue, Holiday) 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
◇Meet-up: City Office 9:00 a.m.
◇Guides: Hiroshi Yashiki (Japan Mammal Society), Yosuke Ibaraki (Curator)
◇Bring hat, lunch, drinks, raingear, etc.
◇Fee: 100 yen (Insurance)
◇Limit 20
◇Deadline: Oct. 30 (Fri)
◇For more information contact:
Fossa Magna Museum (025-553-1880)
   
Posted:2015/10/23

Page Top

【11/1】 Geopark Tour (Mizo'o District)

Learn about the plants and animals of the Nou Region's Mizo'o District, near Gongendake Geosite.
Wear clothing appropriate for light hiking.

◇Time: Nov. 1 (Sun) 9:00 a.m.
◇Meet-up:
City Office 9:00 a.m.
Nou Office 9:20 a.m.
◇Guides: Hiroshi Yashiki (Japan Mammal Society), Yosuke Ibaraki (Curator)
◇Bring hat, lunch, drinks, raingear, etc.
◇Fee: 100 yen (Insurance)
◇Limit 20
◇Deadline: Oct. 30 (Fri)
◇For more information contact:
Fossa Magna Museum (025-553-1880)
   
Posted:2015/10/23

Page Top

The We Love Japan Tour 2015 is coming to Itoigawa!

The We Love Japan Tour is held every two years to share Japan's beauty and culture with the world.

This year is the second tour and the goal of its north and south routes will once again be the Itoigawa Global Geopark.

◇South Route (Starts October 1st)
 Zamami (Okinawa) to San'in, Shikoku, etc.
 Blogger: Ema Parker (UK)

◇North Route (Starts October 2nd)
 Shiretoko (Hokkaido) to Tohoku, Hokuriku, etc.
 Jessica Daniel (US)

Two bloggers will travel across the country, writing about their discoveries and the hidden beauty to be found along the way, meeting in Itoigawa on October 31st for a goal event. An online vote will also be held for the Hidden Beauty Award 2015

For more information, visit the official homepage below.
http://www.japan-guide.com/tour/2015/e/
   
Posted:2015/09/18

Page Top

【Until Oct 31】Day Pass for Itoigawa Bus

Itoigawa Bus is offering a new all day pass for visitors to Itoigawa City. The pass is good for all city bus lines (excluding the Renge Line). Save as much as 840 yen on trip to Marine Dream Nou and as much as 1,040 yen on trip to Sasakura Onsen!

Enjoy the sites of the Itoigawa Geopark from the comfort of a bus.
◇Time
 Until October 31st, 2015
◇Eligibility
 Available only to those living outside of Itoigawa City
◇Price
 Adults 500 yen 12 and under 250 yen
◇Contact Info
 Itoigawa Bus Tel. 025-552-0180
http://www.marukei-g.com/itoigawabus/index.html
   
Posted:2015/05/01

Page Top

【10/18】 Kijiya no Sato Mushroom Festival

Enjoy horse chestnut rice cakes, grilled mountain fish, mushroom soup and more in the idyllic mountain village of Kijiya, located in the Renge Geosite. It's a perfect way to enjoy the autumn colors of Renge!

◇Time: Oct. 18 (Sun) 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
◇Place: Kijiya no Sato (Renge Geosite)
◇Events: Fishing (2,000 yen per person), local crafts, produce, and cuisine
http://www.city.itoigawa.lg.jp/item/17946.htm#ContentPane
   
Posted:2015/10/07

Page Top

【10/18】 Umidani Fall Festival

Come enjoy the bright autumn colors of the Umidani Gorge with a variety of events for the entire family.

◇Time Oct. 18 (Sun) 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
 ※In the event of rain, event will be held at the Nishiumi Community Center
◇Place Umidani Sankyo Park (Umidani Geosite)
◇Events
 Beech Forest Exploration & Treasure Hunt, Umidani Taiko Drum Performance, Wood Chopping Competition, Photo Exhibition, and more!
◇For more information, contact the Nishiumi Community Center (025-552-0268) (Japanese Only)

http://www.city.itoigawa.lg.jp/item/17960.htm#moduleid7860
   
Posted:2015/10/07

Page Top

【10/11】 GeoTour (Hayakawa and Umidani)

Explore the plants and wildlife of the Tsukimizu-no-ike and Umidani Gorge Geosites this Sunday.

◇Time: Oct. 11 (Sun) 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
◇Meetup: 9:00 a.m. at Itoigawa City Office Front Lobby
◇Guides: Drs. Hiroshi Yashiki (Japan Mammal Society) and Ko Takenouchi (City Curator)
◇Deadline: Oct. 9 (Fri)
◇Bring lunch, drinks, raingear, writing utensils, etc.
◇Fee: 100 yen (insurance fee)
◇Limit 20
◇For more info, contact the Fossa Magna Museum at 025-553-1880

※Please note that this tour is given in Japanese
http://www.city.itoigawa.lg.jp/item/17087.htm#ContentPane
   
Posted:2015/10/07

Page Top

【10/3 - 4】 International Local Gourmet Grand Prix 2015 in Itoigawa

Enjoy local specialties from across Japan and the world at this gourmet event in front of Itoigawa Station.

Enjoy Itoigawa favorites like Itoigawa Black Yakisoba and Crab Soup along with 50 other foods from all over!

◇Time: Oct 3 (Sat) and 4 (Sun) 10:00 - 16:00
◇Place: Itoigawa Station Sea of Japan Exit (North Exit)
http://www.kokusai-gotouchi.com/index.html
   
Posted:2015/09/30

Page Top

【Participants Wanted】 Nechi Valley Geopark Tour

A tour of the Itoigawa Global Geopark, this tour explores the plants and wildlife of the Upper Nechi Valley.

◇Time: Sept. 20th (Sun) 9:00 - 15:00
◇Meet-up: Itoigawa City Office Main Lobby
◇Tour Location: Nechi District
◇Guides: Dr. Hiroshi Yashiki (Japan Mammal Society), Dr. Hiroshi Miyajima (City Curator)
◇Bring: Hat, lunch, drinks, walking clothes & shoes, raingear, writing utensils, etc.
◇Fee: 100 yen (insurance fee)
◇Limit 20
◇Deadline: Sept. 18th (Fri)
◇To sign up, contact the Fossa Magna Museum at 025-553-1880

※Note, this tour is offered in the Japanese language.
http://www.city.itoigawa.lg.jp/item/15581.htm#ContentPane
   
Posted:2015/09/03

Page Top

Geoparks Niigata International Forum Official Website is Up

The Official English Website for the Geoparks Niigata International Forum to be held next year in Niigata City has been published. Please check the link below for more details.
http://www.city.itoigawa.lg.jp/geopark-forum/en/index.html
   
Posted:2015/08/28

Page Top

Geosite Access Information

◇Itoigawa Coast Geosite
The Tanimura Art Museum and Gyokusuien Garden will be closed on Thursday, July 30th
The Hisuien Gardens will remain open as usual

◇Kotakigawa Jade Gorge Geosite
Due to the recent heavy rain, the road to the the Jade Gorge through Senoda District is closed until further notice.
Please access the Jade Gorge via Takanami-no-ike Pond.
   
Posted:2015/07/27

Page Top

Notice of Change to the Furusato Geo Drawing Exhibition

The Furusato Geo Drawing Exhibition is currently on display at the Itoigawa GeoStation GeoPal.
Shioji Preschool was scheduled to exhibit from July 27th until August 9th. However, at their request, their exhibit will be cancelled.
In replacement, the Chuo Preschool exhibit will be extended until August 9th.
   
Posted:2015/07/27

Page Top

Itoigawa Global Geopark Learn & Play 2015

Make sure to come visit us during summer break!
This event features fun experiences that can only be enjoyed here at the Itoigawa Global Geopark.

◇Date August 8th (Sat) 9:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
※Reception is until 1:30 p.m.
◇Place Road Station Oyashirazu Pier Park (903-1 Tonami, Itoigawa)
◇Event Activities and Fees
 ・Rock Sample Collection 500 yen
 ・Magatama Crafting 500 yen
 ・Sea Salt Making 300 yen
 ・Mini Geopark-in-a-Bottle 300 yen
 ・Quiz Rally Free
◇Other Information
 ・Event will be held in rainy weather, but some activities may be changed
 ・A free shuttle bus will run from Itoigawa Station
   
Posted:2015/07/27

Page Top

39th Shirouma Korenge Climb

Enjoy snowy ravines, flower-filled meadows, the brilliant, cobalt blue waters of Hakuba Oike Pond, and more on this two day trek from Mt. Shirouma to Mt. Korenge.

◇Time: August 1st (Sat) and 2nd
◇Participation Fee: Ages 12 and up 20,000 yen, Ages 9-11 18,000 yen
※Includes one night and three meals. Please prepare your own breakfast and lunch for the first day
◇Limit 25
◇Call to reserve your place and request a sign-up sheet
◇Sign-up deadline is July 25th (Sat)
◇To sign-up, call the Itoigawa Mountaineering Federation (Mr. Honma) 025-552-2605
※Photo taken on the morning of the second day.
   
Posted:2015/07/10

Page Top

Itoigawa Museum of History and Folklore is Now in English!

The Itoigawa Museum of History and Folklore now has English descriptions for its exhibits! Located only a 5 minute walk from Itoigawa Station, this museum features a variety of artifacts from Itoigawa's history including relics used to transport goods along the Salt Trail (Matsumoto Highway) and old books, scrolls, and other works from the Edo and Meiji periods.

Learn about Itoigawa's rich history through the lives of the great people who have left their marks here.

In addition to the Itoigawa Museum of History and Folklore, English descriptions and/or guidance can be found at the following museums in Itoigawa:

Fossa Magna Museum
Chojagahara Archaeological Museum
Hisuien Gardens
Tanimura Art Museum & Gyokusuien Gardens
Marine Museum Kaiyo

----------------
For more information, contact us at [email protected]
   
Posted:2015/07/28

Page Top

Children's Furasato Geo Drawing Exhibition

July's exhibits in the Children's Drawing Exhibition are as follows:

Schools
 ・Itoigawa Kindergarten 6月29日(月)~7月12日(日)
 ・Chuo Preschool    7月13日(月)~7月26日(日)

Venue
 Itoigawa GeoStation GeoPal
 Diorama and Model Railroad Gallery
 Sat., Sun., & Holidays 9:00~18:30
 Weekdays 10:00~18:00

For more information, contact us at [email protected]
   
Posted:2015/07/06

Page Top

Point-and-Say Conversation Cards Renewed

The Itoigawa Geopark Point-and-Say Conversation Cards allow visitors to navigate a variety of situations even without knowing a word of Japanese! Cards including phrases for restaurants, shops, hotels, and more are available for download at the link below!
http://geo-itoigawa.com/eng/more/pascc.html
   
Posted:2015/07/13

Page Top

GeoTour - Yakeyama Geosite

This tour follows the history of Niigata's only volcanic plume producing volcano, Mt. Yakeyama.
The tour will walk about 4 kilometers along mountain roads, so wear appropriate clothing.

◇Time: July 19th (Sun) 9:00 - 15:30
◇Meetup: Itoigawa City Office 9:00 a.m.
◇Location: Yakeyama Foothills (Kamihayakawa Region)
◇Guide: Ko Takenouchi and Youichi Yamagishi (Itoigawa City Curators)
◇Participation Fee: 100 yen (Insurance Fee)
◇Bring hat, lunch, drink, raingear, writing utensils, etc.
◇Limit 20
◇Signup is until Friday, July 17th
   
Posted:2015/07/10

Page Top

Itoigawa Bus Renge Line Schedule Announced

This year's schedule has been announced for the bus line to Renge Hot Springs, base camp for climbing the Northern Alps.
The schedule changes by day and season, so please check carefully.

◇Route
 Itoigawa Station and Hiraiwa Station to Kijiya and Renge Hot SPrings

◇Buses and Departure Times
>July 18th - August 24th
>4 trips per day (2 from Itoigawa Station, 2 from Hiraiwa Station)
・To  Itoigawa 7:27 ~ Renge 9:02
    Itoigawa 9:00 ~ Renge 10:35
    Hiraiwa 12:30 ~ Renge 13:27
    Hiraiwa 14:00 ~ Renge 14:57
 From Renge 9:15 ~ Hiraiwa 10:15
    Renge 10:50 ~ Hiraiwa 11:50
    Renge 13:45 ~ Itoigawa 15:20
    Renge 15:30 ~ Itoigawa 17:05
>August 28th - October 12th
>(Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only)
>2 trips per day (1 from Itoigawa Station, 1 from Hiraiwa Station)
・To  Itoigawa 9:00 ~ Renge 10:35
    Hiraiwa 12:30 ~ Renge 13:27
・From Renge 10:50 ~ Hiraiwa 11:50
    Renge 13:45 ~ Itoigawa 15:20
   
Posted:2015/06/18

Page Top

Climbing Plan Required for Climbing Mt. Yakeyama!

A new law promoting the safe enjoyment of the active volcano Mt. Yakeyama has been passed requiring hikers and climbers to submit a mountain climbing plan before climbing Mt. Yakeyama.
The law, active starting June 1st, requires that anyone approaching within 2 km of the mountain's summit submit a detailed climbing report. This report should include the names, addresses, genders, and ages of all members of the climbing party and is to be submitted prior to the climb. The law is intended to promote safe climbing practices, preparedness, and to assist rescue efforts in the event of a volcanic eruption or other disaster.
While there is no legal requirement to submit a climbing plan for any other mountains within the Itoigawa Global Geopark, voluntary submission is strongly recommended and could save lives in the event of an unforeseen accident or disaster.

For more information about submitting a climbing plan, please contact the Itoigawa Geopark Promotion Office by email at [email protected]
Posted:2015/06/01

Page Top

Maikomi-daira Tour Signup Has Begun

It's been a long time, but the Maikomi-dair tours have been announced for this season.

The tours will run the following days:
7/19 (Sun), 7/26(Sun), 8/8 (Sat), 8/23 (Sun), 8/29 (Sat), 9/13 (Sun), 9/21 (Mon/Holiday), 10/11 (Sun), 10/25 (Sun), 11/3 (Tue/Holiday)

Each tour is limited to 20. Available on a first-come first-served basis.
Make sure to sign up early!

For more information, contact San'ai Tours at 025-552-3445.
Posted:2015/05/21

Page Top

Town Guides Available

Why not explore downtown Itoigawa with one of our experienced guides the next time you are visiting Itoigawa Station? Enjoy a 1-2 hour tour of the sights and charms of downtown Itoigawa on a guided tour. No reservation is necessary, although guides are limited so we recommend calling ahead.
-----------------------
Time: 9:00 - 16:00
Fee: 300 yen per person, 500 yen for couples
For more information, contact:
Itoigawa City Tourism Association Sea of Japan Gate Office
(Jade Kingdom Center 2F beside JR Itoigawa Station)
Tel 025-553-1785
※Guided tours are conducted in Japanese
   
Posted:2015/06/23

Page Top

【6/14】 GeoTour - Amakazariyama Geosite

This spring, enjoy a walking tour of the Amakazariyama Foothills, part of the new Myoko Togakushi Mountains National Park. Signup begins June 1st!

◇Time: June 14th (Sun) 9:00 - 16:00
◇Meetup: Itoigawa City Office Main Entrance
◇Guide: Drs. Ko Takenouchi and Tsutomu Kijima (City Curators)
◇Participation Fee: 100 yen (Insurance Fee)
◇Limit 20
◇Signup: June 1st (Mon) - June 12th (Fri)
◇For more information, contact the Fossa Magna Museum at 025-553-1880

※Tour is offered in the Japanese language.
   
Posted:2015/06/01

Page Top

【Jun 7, 14】 Opening Climb for Mt. Komagatake and Mt. Myojo

The mountain climbing season has arrived! Challenge two of Itoigawa Geopark's peaks in beautiful new greenery.

--Mt. Komagatake--
June 7 (Sun)
■Nishiumi & Umidani Route
Meetup: Umidani Sankyo Park 8:00 a.m.
■Nechi & Yamadera Route
Meetup: Hotel White Cliff 8:00 a.m.

--Mt. Myojo--
June 14 (Sun)
Meetup: Kotaki Regional Community Center 7:30

Participation Fee: 500 yen each (Includes Commemorative Photograph)
Bring: Day trekking supplies, lunch, drink, raingear, light duty crampons, hiking gloves, etc.

No sign-up required. Subject to cancellation due to snow or weather conditions.
   
Posted:2015/06/01

Page Top

【5/10 - 20】 Seasonal Tour Bus - "Flower Story"

From May 10th until May 20th, the seasonal tour bus "Flower Story" will be in service. Enjoy some of Itoigawa's best flower-viewing spots as spring gives way to summer.

◇Operation Schedule:
 Daily from May 10 (Sun) to May 20 (Wed)
◇Tour Schedule:
 10:10 - 14:15 ※Departs Itoigawa Station's South Exit
◇Tour Course:
 Tsukimizu-no-Ike Pond→Hayakawa Wisteria Festival→Gyokusui-en Garden and Tanimura Art Museum (Lunch)→Kaneko Azalea Garden
◇Cost
 Adults 2,900 yen, Children 12 & Under 1,900 yen
 Pair Pack (2 Adults) 5,500 yen
 ※Include Hanami Bento lunch
◇For more information, contact Itoigawa Bus Tel. 025-552-0180
   
Posted:2015/05/12

Page Top

【4/26】 Historic Souma Gyofu House Opens

Starting Saturday, April 26th (Sun), the Souma Gyofu House, a Niigata Prefecture Historical Landmark, will open to visitors.

Souma Gyofu was an Itoigawa-born poet and scholar of the Meiji Period known for his research on the Buddhist poet-monk Ryokan and writing the lyrics of many songs including the well-known children's song "Haru Yo, Koi." His home is preserved as it was when he passed away, so it appears to have been frozen in time. Enjoy this historical home while pondering on his life's achievements.

It will be closed on May 27th (Mon), but then be open every day until May 6th (Wed), after which it will be open until November 20th, but closed on Mondays and weekdays following public holidays.

■Admission: Adults 100 yen / 18 and under free
■Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
https://www.city.itoigawa.lg.jp/rekimin/gyohutaku01.htm
   
Posted:2015/04/23

Page Top

【4/25】 Takanami-no-ike Pond and the Jade Gorge Fishing Park Open!

The Takanami-no-ike Pond and Jade Gorge Fishing Park will both begin operation starting Saturday, April 25th. Enjoy camping, fishing and other outdoor activities over Golden Week.

The Takanami-no-ike Pond also features a restaurant and local produce shop.

Hours:
Takanami-no-ike Pond Exchange Center (Restaurant) 11:00 - 15:00
Shop 9:00 - 16:00
   
Posted:2015/04/15

Page Top

【4/18~】Road to the Weeping Cherry Village

The community of Tokuai, just inside the eastern border of the Itoigawa Geopark, is opening a number of local event spaces in time for sakura (cherry blossom) season.

Time: April 18 (Sat) - 25 (Sat)
Place: Road to the Weeping Cherry Village (Tokuai)
◇Tokuai Ippukudokoro Hikoemon
 An old farmhouse opened for visitors to rest in.
 Features an erhu (Chinese violin) performance on Apr. 18
◇Sakura Inn - Thatched Roof Farmhouse
 Enjoy the warmth of a Japanese irori fireplace
 Features a tea ceremony on April 19th
◇Weeping Cherry Road Hiking Tour
 Enjoy walking along this 2km course through mountain villages
 Time: April 19th (Sun) from 8:00 a.m.
For more information about the hiking tour, contact Mr. Iwasaki (Japanese Only) 567-2529
◇Keitokuan Farmhouse Gallery
 Features an exhibition of the pottery of Kuriyama Zoshin.

http://www.tokuai.com
   
Posted:2015/03/31

Page Top

【4/11】 Storytelling at GeoStation GeoPal

Enjoy Itoigawa's rich tapestry of folktales and legends this weekend!

Experience the Japanese art of kamishibai, or illustrated story-telling, this Saturday April 11th from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at the Itoigawa GeoStation GeoPal.

■Time: April 11 (Sat) 10:00-11:00
■Place: Itoigawa GeoStation GeoPal

(Note: Storytelling is presented in the Japanese language)
   
Posted:2015/04/09

Page Top

【3/9】 Fossa Magna Museum Reopens

 The Fossa Magna Museum, after 6 months of extensive renovation, reopened to the general public on March 9th. The exhibits have changed completely and now provide a more dynamic and engaging exhibition of the wonders of the Itoigawa Global Geopark and our planet Earth through six themed exhibit rooms. Even if you've visited us before, you're not going to want to miss the new Fossa Magna Museum!

■Grand Reopening: 9 March 2015 (Monday)
http://www.city.itoigawa.lg.jp/dd.aspx?menuid=4586
   
Posted:2015/03/09

Page Top

【March】 Itoigawa Geostation GeoPal Children Events

A number of events for children are planned for the Itoigawa Geostation GeoPal center, located on the first floor of the Hokuriku Shinkansen Itoigawa Station. Join us for a variety of fun Geopark activities!

◆Itoigawa Lil' Indy Jones Beginner's Course
Learn about rope work and other basic outdoor skills.
Time: March 1st (Sun) 10:00 - 11:30
Fee: Free

◆Geopark English - Have Fun with English!
Enjoy playing games while learning about the English of the Itoigawa Geopark.
Time: March 7th (Sat) 10:00 - 11:00
Fee: Free

◆Magatama Carving
Carve your very own magatama bead from stone.
Time: March 8th (Sun) 10:00 - 11:00
Fee: 500 yen (material fee)

◆Original Geopark Herbal Tea Making
Use Itoigawa herbs to make your very own herbal tea.
Time: March 21st (Sat) 10:00 - 11:30
Fee: Free

◆Stone Specimen Collection
Use stones collected from Itoigawa's beaches to make your very own collection.
Time: March 28th (Sat) 10:00 - 11:30
Fee: 200 yen (material fee)

◆Geomaru and Nuna Doll Potpurri Doll Making
Use Itoigawa's flowers and grasses to make a beautifully scented doll.
Time: March 29th (Sun) 10:00 - 11:30
Fee: Free

◆Each Event:
Place: Itoigawa Geostation GeoPal
For children aged 5 - 10
Limit 20 per event.
For more information, contact the Geopark Promotion Office at 025-552-1511
   
Posted:2015/03/02

Page Top

Itoigawa City Rent-A-Cycle Service Starts

The City of Itoigawa and the Itoigawa Geopark have begun a Rent-A-Cycle service to provide visitors a fun new way to visit the Fossa Magna Museum, Tanimura Art Museum, Jade Coast, and other areas of the Itoigawa Geopark.

It's an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a leisurely tour of the Itoigawa Geopark.
----------------------
◇Time: 9:00 - 17:00
◇Rental Fare:
Utility Bike (3-speed): 500 yen/3 hrs 1000 yen Day Pass
Electric Pedal Assist: 500 yen/1 hr 2500 yen Day Pass
◇Rental Desk
・Itoo Bicycle Shop
・Itoigawa Geostation GeoPal Tourism Information Center
   
Posted:2015/03/24

Page Top

【3/22】 Geo Lecture - Temperature of the Itoigawa Geopark's Mammals

Learn about the ways the mammals of the Itoigawa Geopark maintain their body temperature.
------
Time: Mar. 22nd (Sun) 2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Place: Fossa Magna Museum Hall
Lecturer: Hiroshi Yashiki (Japan Mammal Society)
Fee & Admission: Free

※Lecture is in Japanese.
   
Posted:2015/03/04

Page Top

【3/21】 Astronomical Society - Constellations of Spring and Jupiter


View the constellations of spring and the planet of Jupiter in the Itoigawa Geopark. In the event of bad weather or visibility, a miniature planetarium will be prepared. Be sure to wear warm clothes!
------
Time: March 21st (Sat) 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Place: Front of Fossa Magna Museum
Lecturer: Minako Saito (Ministry of the Environment Environmental Counselor)
Please call the Fossa Magna Museum to join. 025-553-1880
Fee: Free
※Lecture is offered in Japanese only.
   
Posted:2015/03/04

Page Top

【2/17、3/17】 Itoigawa Geopark Hospitality Course - Safety Series

Learn about outdoor safety in this free lecture series, part of the Itoigawa Geopark Hospitality Course. No signup is necessary and the lectures are completely free! (Course offered in Japanese only)
--------------
◆Course 1: Feb 17 (Tue) 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
   Outdoor First Aid
 Course 2: Mar 17 (Tue) 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
   How to Handle Wild Animal Encounters
◆Lecturer: Ryo Endo (Whole Earth Nature School)
◆Location: Jade Kingdom Center (Itoigawa Station North Entrance)
Posted:2015/01/20

Page Top

【2/22】 Snow Trekking (Kirara Nature Society)

Enjoy trekking in snowshoes and observe animal prints, markings, and traces on the snow as well as the early signs of returning plant life.
Event is open to all interested (tour offered in Japanese-language only).
- - - - - -
Time: Feb. 22nd (Sun) 9:00 - 12:00
Place: Kuratanigawa River
Lecture: Hiroshi Yashiki (Japanese Mammal Society)
Meetup: 9:00 a.m. at Takabata Community Center
Things to bring: Clothing suitable for snow-trekking, snowshoes (a limited number are available for rent)
Fee: Free
Limit 25
For more information, contact the Fossa Magna Museum at 025-553-1880
   
Posted:2015/02/12

Page Top

Itoigawa GeoStation GeoPal Grand Opening

The Itoigawa GeoStation GeoPal information and tourist center, located on the first floor of the new Itoigawa Shinkansen Station, will open to the public on February 14th, exactly one month before the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line. A number of events are planned for the opening, so make sure to stop by!
http://itoigawa-shinkansen.jp/facility.html
   
Posted:2015/02/03

Page Top

Fossa Magna Museum Renovation Progress

Take a sneak peak at the progress of the Fossa Magna Museum renovation at the link below:
http://www.city.itoigawa.lg.jp/dd.aspx?itemid=16738#moduleid5372
   
Posted:2015/02/12

Page Top

Itoigawa Museum of History and Folklore Exhibit Changes

The Fossa Magna exhibits on display during the renovation of the Fossa Magna Museum will be returned to on Feb. 10 to prepare for the Fossa Magna Museum's grand reopening in March.

Make sure to visit when the newly renovated Fossa Magna Museum opens on March 9th!
   
Posted:2015/01/29

Page Top

Chojagahara Archaeological Museum Exhibition Changes

The "Midori no Shizuku" and other jade artifacts temporarily displayed at the Chojgahara Archaeological Museum during the renovation of the Fossa Magna Museum will be returned to prepare for the Fossa Magna Museum's grand reopening in March.

Make sure to visit when the newly renovated Fossa Magna Museum opens on March 9th!
   
Posted:2015/01/29

Page Top

Preschool Geo Drawing Exhibition

The following preschools will exhibit their drawings at the Preschool Geo Drawing Exhibition in June:

Preschools:
 Tsutsuishi Preschool: Jun 1 - Jun 14
 Chūō Preschool: Jun 15 - Jun 28

Location:
 Itoigawa GeoStation GeoPal - Diorama and Model Railroad Gallery
 Sat, Sun, Holidays: 9:00 - 18:30
 Weekdays: 10:00-18:00

Check back here for information about next month's exhibition!
   
Posted:2015/06/01

Page Top