Autumn Colors Week Kicks Off on Saturday, September 27th! Enjoy Fall in Otari Village, Nagano Prefecture | The Autumn Foliage Baton Relay Changes with Each Elevation

Enjoy Spectacular Views in the National Park, Along with Mushroom Soup and Herbal Tea! Nine Days to Savor Nature and Food Otari Village in Nagano Prefecture (Pronounced: Otari-mura; Location: Otari-mura, Kitaazumi District, Nagano Prefecture; Village Mayor: Yoshiaki Nakamura) will be holding the “2025 Tsugaike Nature Garden Autumn Colors Week” for nine days from Saturday, September 27, 2025, to October 5. During the event period, there will be many unmissable events, including servings of mushroom soup, herbal tea made with local Otari Village produce, and sliced apples from Shinshu. In Otari Village, Nagano Prefecture, you can enjoy autumn foliage for an extended period from September to early November. This mountainous village, rich in nature and home to two national parks, offers scenery that changes daily with the progression of autumn colors, revealing a different face with each visit. Why not visit Otari Village this autumn?

“Tsugaike Nature Garden Autumn Colors Week” Event Overview

We’re holding our “Autumn Colors Week” for the best viewing of Tsugaike Nature Park’s foliage, which is at its peak from late September to early October. Along with the changing colors that move with the elevation, we’ve prepared many captivating events for visitors, including local food offerings and a commemorative raffle. From families to nature enthusiasts, everyone can experience the unique charm of autumn. We sincerely look forward to your visit.

Event Period: 9 days from Saturday, September 27, 2025, to Sunday, October 5, 2025

Main Event Details:

⬛︎Saturday Events (September 27th & October 4th)

・Alphorn performance
・Free mushroom soup
・Free Otari Village herbal tea
・Shinshu “oyaki” (grilled buns) outdoor sale

⬛︎Sunday Events (September 28th & October 5th)

・Free Shinshu-grown sliced apples
・Free Polaroid photo shoot and gift・Shinshu “oyaki” outdoor sale

⬛︎Weekday Events (September 29th – October 3rd)

・Commemorative postcard gift for park entry・Commemorative raffle for visitors・Shinshu “oyaki” outdoor sale (October 1st only)

Note: The number of items provided for some events is limited. Some events may be canceled due to rain.

Let’s explore the best autumn foliage spots in Otari Village!

Otari Village is a mountain village located in the northwesternmost part of Nagano Prefecture, on the border with Niigata Prefecture. Its highest elevation is 2,766 meters (at the summit of Mt. Ko-Renge) and its lowest is about 173 meters.

With 88% of its total area covered by forests, the autumn colors gradually make their way down from the mountaintops to the foothills, creating a changing “foliage relay” that you can enjoy throughout the season. In October, when the first snow falls on the Northern Alps, you might even be able to witness the “three-tiered foliage”—a breathtaking sight of white snow at the summit, red foliage mid-mountain, and green at the base.

Within the village’s vast 2,600-meter elevation difference, there are many spots where the autumn colors look different depending on the altitude and direction you’re facing. This means you can see a variety of colors in a single day just by visiting different places.

Enjoy the great outdoors at Tsugaike Nature Park, whether you’re alone or with others!

One of the recommended spots for autumn colors is Tsugaike Nature Park. Located in the western part of Otari Village at the foot of the Northern Alps, Tsugaike Nature Park is a highland marsh within the Chubu-Sangaku National Park. Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,900m, it is a famous nature observation area with views of the Hakuba Three Peaks and the Ushiro-Tateyama mountain range.

Every year from mid-September, the colors begin to appear in the marsh grasses, and from early to mid-October, the mountain is blanketed in a vivid contrast of fiery red nanakamado and maple trees against the yellow of Erman’s birch. On a clear autumn day, you can witness the breathtaking scene of a blue sky, white mountain peaks, and the fiery red foliage all in one view.

The well-maintained boardwalks have a gentle elevation change and some sections are even wheelchair accessible, making it safe and easy for beginners and families to enjoy. Additionally, you can access the park by using the Tsugaike Ropeway (gondola lift + ropeway), so you don’t need any special mountain climbing gear to visit.

At the peak of the autumn season, many tourists visit the park to take photos, sketch, and observe nature.

Park Open: June 7 (Sat) – November 3 (Mon, public holiday)

(Closed from Oct 27 (Mon) to Oct 31 (Fri) due to suspension of the Tsugaike Ropeway)

Admission Fee: Adults 320 yen, Children 260 yen

Official Website: https://sizenen.otarimura.com/about/

<Tsugaike Ropeway> To protect the environment of Chubu-Sangaku National Park, please use the Tsugaike Ropeway to access the park.

Fare (incl. park admission): Adults 4,000 yen, Children 2,200 yen

Official Website: https://www.tsugaike.gr.jp/green/ropeway

The Brocade Forest Reflected on the Water. Autumn at Kamaike Pond!

Another popular autumn foliage spot in Otari Village is “Kamaike Pond.” Located in the northeastern part of the village, within the Myoko-Togakushi Renzan National Park, Kamaike Pond is a tranquil body of water at the foot of Mt. Amakazari.

Situated at an altitude of 1,190m, the 2km walking trail is surrounded by a primeval beech forest. The pond is also home to carp and trout, and on rare occasions, you can see a giant carp, referred to as the “master of the pond,” leisurely swimming.

On quiet mornings, the calm surface of the water perfectly reflects the autumn colors and mountain slopes, creating a prime photo opportunity. The sight of fog and the morning sun overlapping with the foliage is one of the reasons many photographers come from all over the country.

With a well-maintained 2km walking path, anyone can enjoy the autumn scenery. It takes about 40 minutes to walk around the entire pond, allowing you to fully appreciate the crisp autumn air.

New! Enjoy a Refreshing “Foot Bath” with Ice Water This Summer

A new spot has opened at the base of the mountain this summer. Want to cool down your tired feet after a hike? Take a dip in the new footbath (ice bath) that opened in August 2025, which uses melted snow from the Northern Alps. The cold water will leave your feet feeling refreshed and revitalized. It also doubles as a footbath in the winter, making it a great spot to visit as the seasons change.

There are also many restaurants in the surrounding area, making it a perfect spot for a break during your hike.

・Location: Gondola Lift “Eve” Base Area

Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Fee: Free

Autumn Flavors! Introducing Recommended Spots Nearby

Autumn in Otari Village isn’t just about the foliage. There are many restaurants, from places to eat before or after a hike to cafes for a short break. We’d like to introduce a popular shop that specializes in gelato made with local ingredients.

Otarian Gelato

The shop is famous for its classic “Soba Gelato,” made with buckwheat seeds, and “Sake Lees Gelato,” made with sake lees from local sake brands “Amakazariyama” and “Otarinishiki.” The rich milk gelato is also a popular favorite. Additionally, they offer seasonal gelato flavors using fruits and vegetables from Otari Village and Nagano Prefecture, such as kiwi berries, wild grapes, chestnuts, mugwort, and corn. The chance to discover a new flavor with every visit is part of its charm.

Location: 16107-1 Nakatsuchi, Otari-mura, Kitaazumi-gun, Nagano

Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Parking: Available

Closed: Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/otarian_gelato/

Please come and experience autumn in Otari Village, where you can enjoy both the beautiful foliage and the delicious flavors of the season!

Access & Contact Otari Village Tourism Federation

Address: 131 Nakaotari Hei, Otari Village, Kitaazumi District, Nagano Prefecture (within the Otari Village Office)

Official HP: https://info-otari.jp/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/otari_nagano_japan/

Tel: 0261-82-2233

Fax: 0261-82-2242

Official YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK8QWdgiS4h603CbgPiGHmg

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A New Player in the Wellness Drink Market – PR1ME Z Enters the Functional Drink Market with Ginger Turmeric + Calamansi & Piperine

A New Player in the Wellness Drink Market – PR1ME Z Enters the Functional Drink Market with Ginger Turmeric + Calamansi & Piperine

Manila, Philippines — September 15, 2025 — The wellness industry in the Philippines just got more exciting as PR1ME Z introduces its latest innovation: Pr1me Ginger Turmeric with Calamansi & Piperine.

This refreshing blend combines the time-honored flavors of ginger and turmeric with the zest of calamansi and the natural enhancement of piperine (black pepper extract). Carefully crafted for health-conscious Filipinos, it’s a refreshing addition to a balanced lifestyle and daily wellness routine.

“Even as a new product, Pr1me Ginger Turmeric has already received positive feedback from early users, who enjoy its refreshing taste and natural blend of ingredients,” said Mr. Zack Lopez.

The launch of Pr1me Ginger Turmeric marks a significant milestone for PR1ME Z as the brand expands its portfolio of wellness solutions. With consumer interest in natural and plant-based products continuing to grow, PR1ME Z positions itself as a brand to watch in the health and lifestyle space.

Pr1me Ginger Turmeric with Calamansi & Piperine is now available through official PR1ME Z distributors and online platforms.

For more information, visit www.PR1MEZ.com / Facebook Page: PR1ME Z.

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From Orphaned Child to Empowered Entrepreneur!

From Orphaned Child to Empowered Entrepreneur!

Standing at just 4’3”, Grace Ramirez had every reason to fade into the background. Orphaned by the age of 12, she became a second parent to her younger sibling while still a child herself. Her life in the province was far from easy—selling vegetables, coconuts, and even collecting scraps to survive.

“Life didn’t give me a choice,” she recalls. “I had to grow up fast.”

At 13, Grace made a brave decision. With no money and no one to rely on, she traveled to Manila alone to work as a domestic helper. She spent six years babysitting, cleaning, and working under people who often saw her as “less”—too small, too uneducated, too soft-spoken.

But inside, Grace held on to one belief: “My dreams are bigger than me. Taller than me. As tall as the Burj Khalifa.”

The turning point came when she found REDinc—a business platform that gave her something she had never experienced before: an environment without judgment. No one cared about her height or past. They cared about her heart, her effort, and her dreams.

Today, Grace is a respected leader, public speaker, and host within the organization. More than just changing her own life, she’s helping others believe they can change theirs too. She supports an 8-year-old charity for orphans and fights for OFWs to have a way to come home for good.

“I’m bound to be more & I’ll continue thrive so I can help more people…”

About REDinc

Website: REDInc.net

 

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Alsons Power Scholars Bring Pride to the Nation, Set to Compete Globally this October

Alsons Power Scholars Bring Pride to the Nation, Set to Compete Globally this October

Pride and inspiration filled the room as Alsons Power’s weightlifting scholars Jhodie A. Peralta, Princess Jay Ann Diaz, and Alexandra Ann Diaz, together with Coach Allen Diaz, shared a Kamustahan session with CEO Antonio Miguel B. Alcantara before representing the Philippines at the Asian Youth Games in Bahrain this October.

In-photo: Alsons Power CEO Antonio Miguel B. Alcantara (rightmost) and Vice President for Corporate Services Maria Jiji Q. Lara (leftmost) together with Coach Allen Diaz, Jhodie Peralta, Princess Jay Ann Diaz, and Alexandra Ann Diaz.

Alcantara lauded the young athletes for their discipline and triumphs, calling them “living proof that with determination and support, Filipinos can excel on the world stage.” He expressed confidence that their achievements will continue to bring honor to the country and inspire future generations.

Coach Allen Diaz also expressed his gratitude to the company, saying, “We are very thankful to Alsons Power for their unwavering support. Because of this program, our athletes can focus on training, chase their dreams of becoming world champions, and bring pride to our nation.”

Alsons Power, in partnership with Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz, launched the Group’s weightlifting scholarship program in 2017 to support her aspiration of training Zamboanga City-based aspiring competitive weightlifters with the potential to become world-class champions. Since then, scholars from the program have consistently represented the Philippines in the global weightlifting arena and have proudly brought home medals.

The Kamustahan session underscored Alsons Power’s commitment to its brand promise We Power with Care, by empowering the youth through education and sports and supporting champions who carry the nation’s pride with every lift, medal, and victory.

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Hive Modular Completes Model Unit in Batangas, Expands Presence in Philippine Hospitality Sector

Hive Modular Completes Model Unit in Batangas, Expands Presence in Philippine Hospitality Sector

Hive Modular completes its Casita X model unit in Lipa, Batangas, showcasing the company’s sustainable prefabricated housing solutions for both residential and hospitality markets. The unit serves as both a permanent showroom and luxury vacation rental, allowing potential buyers to experience modular living firsthand. This milestone coincides with Hive’s upcoming participation in the 8th Hospitality Philippines Conference on September 17, 2025, where their CEO will deliver a keynote address on sustainable housing solutions for the hospitality industry. The company is sharing this development through press releases and industry events to advance its vision of modular living as the future of housing and hospitality in the Philippines.

Lipa, Batangas, Philippines, September 15, 2025 — Hive Modular, a leader in sustainable prefabricated housing solutions, has officially completed its Casita X model unit in Lipa, Batangas. The milestone marks the company’s growing footprint in both residential and hospitality markets, as the unit will function as both a model home for prospective buyers and a fully operational luxury vacation rental.

The Casita X, Hive Modular’s flagship design, represents a modern and sustainable approach to modular living. Designed with flexibility in mind, the unit will provide prospective clients, partners, and guests with a tangible experience of Hive’s signature style, blending eco-conscious design, efficiency, and premium comfort.

Earlier this year, Hive Modular launched its Casita X line of modular homes in a pop-up showroom exhibit at One Bonifacio High Street, which ran from February to March. The exhibit introduced thousands of visitors to the possibilities of modular housing, generating strong interest from both private homeowners and institutional players in the hospitality industry.

The permanent Casita X showroom in Lipa will serve as a long-term showcase for Hive’s capabilities. By operating simultaneously as a model house and luxury vacation rental, the unit offers potential buyers and partners the chance to see firsthand how modular living works in a real-world hospitality setting.

“The Casita X is not only a showcase of design and sustainability but also a real-world demonstration of how modular living redefines hospitality,” said John Avrett, Founder & CEO, Hive Modular. “From our pop-up in BGC to this permanent model in Batangas, we are proving that modular housing is more than a concept. It is a viable solution for supporting world-class hospitality and tourism in the Philippines.”

Hive Modular’s expansion in Batangas coincides with its active participation in key industry events. On September 17, 2025, the company will take part in the 8th Hospitality Philippines Conference, a premier gathering of hotel operators, developers, and innovators in the hospitality space, as a technical keynote participant. Hive Modular’s Founder and CEO is set to deliver a keynote address that will showcase the company’s expertise in sustainable housing solutions and demonstrate how modular construction can support the industry’s demand for scalable, high-quality accommodations.

This participation underscores Hive Modular’s mission to integrate sustainability with hospitality innovation, at a time when the Philippine tourism sector is rapidly rebounding. The company aims to redefine how resorts and accommodations are built, offering developers and operators a partner who can deliver faster, smarter, and greener solutions without compromising quality or design.

With the permanent Casita X showroom now open in Lipa and with visibility at national industry events, Hive Modular continues to advance its vision of modular living as the future of housing and hospitality in the Philippines.

If you are interested in availing the Casita X experience or exploring modular solutions for your next project, please contact the details below.

About Hive Modular PH
Hive Modular is a leader in sustainable, prefabricated housing solutions in the Philippines. The company specializes in modular residential, commercial, and hospitality units designed with efficiency, quality, and environmental responsibility at their core. By combining innovative design with local sourcing and modern construction methods, Hive Modular delivers scalable housing solutions that meet the evolving needs of communities and industries.
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P.A. Properties launches NuVista Tanauan: A New Residential Community in the Heart of Batangas

P.A. Properties launches NuVista Tanauan: A New Residential Community in the Heart of Batangas

Tanauan, Batangas – September 13, 2025. P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation (P.A. Properties) officially launched NuVista Tanauan, its newest master-planned community in Brgy. Talaga, Tanauan, Batangas. The launch was graced by P.A. Properties executives, stakeholders, bank partners, brokers, sellers, and potential buyers, marking another milestone in the company’s three-decade commitment to building homes and communities for Filipino families.

True to its brand promise, “Behind Every Home is a Story,” NuVista Tanauan is designed to provide quality and affordable housing that supports both family living and community growth. The development is part of the company’s greater mission to help address the Philippines’ housing backlog, which continues to affect millions of families nationwide.

Strategically located just 64 kilometers from Metro Manila via STAR Tollway, Tanauan offers an ideal balance of suburban serenity and urban accessibility. Recognized as one of Batangas’ most progressive cities, Tanauan is home to a thriving economy, proximity to industrial hubs, educational institutions, commercial centers, and major transport routes. With its dynamic growth potential, the city serves as a prime location for families seeking convenience, opportunity, and long-term value.

Architect’s perspective of NuVista Tanauan, a master-planned community of P.A. Properties in Brgy. Talaga, Tanauan, Batangas. The development will feature a mix of economic and social housing units, along with community amenities that promote sustainable and family-oriented living.
Architect’s perspective of NuVista Tanauan, a master-planned community of P.A. Properties in Brgy. Talaga, Tanauan, Batangas. The development will feature a mix of economic and social housing units, along with community amenities that promote sustainable and family-oriented living.
Spanning 187,728 sqm, NuVista Tanauan is envisioned as a sustainable and inclusive neighborhood that integrates both economic and socialized housing. Its first tranche of development will feature:

  • Yasmin (Townhouse, Economic) – A two-storey home designed for functionality and comfort, ideal for growing families.
  • Solida (Townhouse, Socialized) – An affordable housing option crafted to make homeownership accessible to more Filipino families.

Complementing its homes, NuVista Tanauan will feature community amenities that foster recreation and connection, such as landscaped open spaces, jogging paths, gardens, and the Art in the Park. This unique addition reflects both heritage and modern living.

In her keynote remarks, Atty. Marianne Reyna Lina-Cruz, President and CEO of P.A. Properties, emphasized the significance of the launch:

“At P.A. Properties, we hold close to our hearts the belief that ‘Behind Every Home is a Story.’ Today, we proudly begin a new story here in Tanauan with a community that reflects both modern vision and timeless charm. NuVista Tanauan is more than a collection of houses—it is a neighborhood that offers a true sense of home. Each community we build brings us closer to our greater mission: to help address the country’s housing backlog and allow more Filipino families to live in homes where their own stories can begin and grow.”

With NuVista Tanauan, P.A. Properties reaffirms its dedication not only to developing homes but also to building communities where Filipino families can thrive and flourish for generations.

About P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation

Nestled in San Pedro, Laguna, P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation (P.A. Properties) is a leading developer of low to medium-cost housing communities in Southern Luzon. Since its establishment in 1994, the company has crafted over 30,000 homes across key Philippine provinces, with plans to build an additional 20 communities in the next 5 years. P.A. Properties, guided by the tagline “Behind Every Home is a Story,” not only addresses the nation’s housing backlog but also actively contributes to economic growth. Through philanthropic initiatives, such as hospital donations in Cabuyao, providing right of way in Pampanga for civic centers, and establishing SanJo’s markets in provinces like Laguna and Bulacan, the company weaves a narrative of community development and nationwide impact.

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