The "Explore the Warm Wind Cave at Mt. Kannon" was held this February, as part of a series of events to explore the wintery outdoors.

The participants gathered at the lower parking area and walked our way to the top of Mt. Kannon.

We had great weather for the event. I was worried that the path would be slippery after we had a light dusting of snow the previous two nights in a row. Luckily, it wasn't, and we had no issues walking to the top.

We came across some rabbit prints in the snow!

We also saw azaleas, Japanese honeysuckle, acorns, and seeds from the Ooubayuri.

I encouraged the participants to feel the warm air coming from the cave.

My guess is the air was around 7 degrees Celsius. The outside temperature was below freezing, and my glasses fogged up.

We also walked to the observation deck.

Yesterday, Mt. Apoi was hidden in the clouds, but it was clearly visible today!

We saw the fluffy winter buds of the Japanese magnolia trees.

All of the photos posted here were taken by the Samani PR Department.

I'm glad everyone seemed to enjoy themselves, and above all, I'm relieved that the event was held safely.

To finish out the event, we warmed up with pound cake from Mokkajyo, a confectionery shop that opened in Samani Town on December 10th, along with warm drinks.

Matcha and red bean, walnut and banana pound cake.

The pound cake is made with rice flour, so it's recommended to warm up the cake in a microwave before eating.

This is what the inside of the Mokkajyo looks like. Pamphlets are also provided.

The showcase.

The shop also sells cream puffs, chocolate pound cakes, and butter cream sandwiches.

We might hold the next event in October when the warm air cave is at its warmest (around 17 degrees Celsius), and observe autumn plants, fruits, and seeds.