Today, we’d like to introduce our event, “Nihongo Asobiba,” held for foreign workers living & working in Aso City.
“Nihongo Asobiba” is an event where participants can experience Japanese culture while using simple and easy-to-understand Japanese. Recently, we visited Aso City’s Fukuno-kami Daikokuten Shrine, explored the Uchimaki district, and enjoyed strawberry picking.
Let’s take a look at our adventure!^^
Starting at Fukuno-kami Daikokuten Shrine!
Our first stop was Fukuno-kami Daikokuten, a shrine in Uchimaki that is famous for bringing good luck, especially with lottery winnings.
There are stories of people winning the lottery and returning from outside the prefecture to express their gratitude here! Besides financial fortune, this shrine is also known for blessings in business success and good relationships.
We learned how to properly pray: Bow twice, clap twice. Then, chant “Onmaka, Karaya, Sowaka” five times while making your wish, followed by another bow and two claps.
I wonder what everyone wished for!^^
After praying, we energetically climbed the stairs behind the shrine.
At the top, we reached a scenic viewpoint where all five peaks of Mount Aso can be seen. This area is also home to a shrine dedicated to Katō Umanosuke, a loyal retainer of the famous warlord Katō Kiyomasa.
From left to right, we saw Nekodake, Takadake, Nakadake (which still emits volcanic smoke), Ojodake, and Kishimadake, along with the uniquely shaped Komezuka Hill. Can you tell which one is which?
Strolling Through the Uchimaki District
Next, we explored the Uchimaki district.
This area has a nostalgic atmosphere with traditional Japanese streetscapes.
We took a break at Watanabe Manju Store, a famous local shop, to enjoy Kumamoto’s specialty sweets—Ikinaridango (sweet potato-filled dumpling) and traditional manju.
After a delicious snack, we continued our walk.
Along the way, we came across a fire hydrant. In the past, this area experienced frequent fires, making firefighting a crucial part of local life.
We also visited Hosen Bridge, a picturesque spot featured in TV dramas, with the beautiful Kurokawa River flowing below.
Our next stop was a small shrine near Meigo Bridge. Behind it, we could see Uchimaki Elementary School!
The Highlight: Strawberry Picking!
Finally, the part everyone was looking forward to—strawberry picking!
We visited the greenhouse at ASO MILK FACTORY for this experience.
Strawberry picking allows visitors to enter a greenhouse and eat as many fresh strawberries as they like within a set time limit. Time to enjoy the sweetest berries we can find!
Walking around the greenhouse, we searched for the juiciest and ripest strawberries. This farm grows multiple varieties, allowing us to taste and compare different flavors—a fun bonus!
One participant from Myanmar surprised us by bringing a chili-based seasoning!
In Myanmar, it’s common to eat sour fruits with spicy seasonings, which was quite a contrast to the sweet strawberry milk often paired with strawberries in Japan.
This cultural exchange made the experience even more special. (^_^)
This “Nihongo Asobiba” event was full of learning, fun, and cultural discoveries.
We’re already looking forward to the next one!^^
We Look Forward to Seeing You!
This is a wonderful opportunity to learn Japanese while experiencing Japanese culture. If you live or work in Aso City, we warmly welcome you to join us!
