Experiencing the Thriving Heritage and Traditions that Empower the Lives of Today

Welcome to a journey where the past meets the future, and tradition empowers the present. We invite you to explore the Tokai and Kansai regions, places where cultural heritage and modern aspirations intertwine to create a life of balance and fulfillment. Each destination offers a unique perspective on how cultural practices and historical insights can shape and empower our lives today.  

 

 

In This Article

 

• Hajimari no Kocha Terrace Café: Enriching your Being One Sip at a Time
• AQUAIGNIS: Relax and Rejuvenate for a Brighter Tomorrow
• Ama Hut Osatsu-Kamado: A Legacy of Resilience and Sustainability
• Ise Jingu Shrine: A Timeless Sanctuary Fostering Continuity
• VISON: A Beacon of Cultural Delights and Innovations
• Gujo Odori: A Living Tradition that Transcends Generations

 

 

Hajimari no Kocha Terrace Café: Enriching your Being One Sip at a Time

Shizuoka

 

 

Fields of green stretch as far as the eye can see, complemented by a refreshing breeze and a peaceful atmosphere—Imagine this as you sip a delightful tea made from Ashikubo's green tea fields in Shizuoka, Japan's leading tea-producing region. Situated in this idyllic setting is the Hajimari no Kocha Terrace Café. Hajimari no kocha means "the beginning of tea," which reflects the origin and enduring legacy of tea culture cultivated more than 800 years ago. You can immerse yourself in the local culture, history, and traditions of Ashikubo's tea farming through their unique experiences. 

 

 

At Hajimari no Kocha Terrace Café, the power to shape your experience is in your hands. Whether you prefer a self-guided tour, where you can explore at your own pace, or a guided tour, where a knowledgeable local will accompany you and share fascinating insights, the choice is yours. This freedom ensures that your experience is exactly what you want it to be.  

Our guide, one of the café's staff, shared personal stories that were both heartwarming and insightful. Captivated by the beauty of the landscape, they initiated a crowd-funding project to build the terrace, believing that such a stunning view deserved to be shared. With the community's support, the Terrace Café was brought to life. 

 

Unwind in the vast tea fields with the refreshing breeze soothing your soul as you sip their signature tea

 

Our local guide captivated us with the meticulous tea cultivation and harvesting process. She explained that machines are not practical because of the steep terrain and narrow spacing of the fields. Instead, two people trim the plants simultaneously at a specific height, working in parallel as they move up the terrace field. Interestingly, the trimmed leaves are left on the ground as natural fertilizer, ensuring nothing goes to waste. There are also designated days throughout the year where you can immerse yourself in various tea farming activities, including trimming, weeding, fertilizing, and harvesting, as part of their hands-on experiences. 

 

 

 

Additionally, an innovative experience available is becoming a "Tea Plant Owner," where you can plant your own tea plant, watch it grow, and eventually harvest it in five years, complete with a personalized name tag. After the activities, there's nothing quite like a sense of accomplishment as you enjoy the various flavors of their tea selection while admiring your work and the beautiful landscape. Each season offers a different aspect of tea plant care, making every visit a promising blend of productivity, scenic beauty, and appreciation of tea farming traditions.

 

A one-year-old tea plant that takes five years to become full-grown for harvest

 

I began to appreciate the immense time and effort required to maintain the seemingly endless green vista. The Hajimari no Kocha staff's passion for tea and dedication to their work was evident in every detail. Their commitment to sharing the beauty of Ashikubo's tea fields and producing delightful quality tea is truly inspiring. Whether it's simply indulging in tea and admiring the vista or a more hands-on approach to tea farming practices, this experience made me realize that something as simple as tea can be profoundly empowering and healing, especially when cultivated with such dedication amidst a breathtaking landscape.

 

 

 

AQUAIGNIS: Relax and Rejuvenate for a Brighter Tomorrow

Mie

 

 

Surrounded by the tranquil atmosphere of Mie Prefecture's nature, AQUAIGNIS Yunoyama Onsen offers a sanctuary where healing, art, and culinary excellence converge. This enchanting hot spring resort, whose name harmonizes the elements of "fire" and "water," is more than just a getaway; it is an invitation to rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit through its hot spring waters and Mie's soulful cuisine. 

Even from the outside, its buildings' expansive space and neutral colors set against the lush greenery create an immediate sense of relaxation.  

As you enter the main building, you are greeted with an interior teeming with Japanese influences. Natural materials such as wood, stone, and bamboo are harmoniously mixed with minimalist aesthetics, focusing on simplicity and functionality.

 

 

The resort's hot springs flow constantly directly from the source without added water, heating, or circulation, keeping their natural purity and healing properties. Groves of bamboo trees partition the three hot spring pools with varying depths and temperatures tailored to various therapeutic needs. The staff shared that warmer baths help relax the muscles and ease stress, while less warm baths invigorate and refresh the body.

 

 

Aside from the hot springs experience, there are also massage treatments and yoga classes for a holistic approach to healing and relaxation. For a more engaging activity that even kids can participate in, they also offer all-you-can-eat strawberry picking from November to June.

 

 

To complete the trifecta, AQUAIGNIS offers diverse culinary options. While there may not be as much local interaction when you visit the resort, the locals' warm hospitality is evident in the service and the food you eat at their patisserie and restaurants. Savor meals where every bite and sensation are because of the locals' hard work, producing high-quality ingredients intricately transformed by world-renowned chefs Hironobu Tsujiguchi, Masayuki Okuda, and Masahiro Kasahara. These culinary maestros merge traditional Japanese flavors with innovative techniques to create dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

 

Ise Madai's Sea Bream Ochazuke (Rice with dashi)

 

 

By offering a space where individuals can unwind, heal, and connect with others, AQUAIGNIS enhances personal well-being and encourages a more vibrant, empowered community. Through these offerings, AQUAIGNIS not only provides a retreat but also empowers its guests to lead healthier, more fulfilled lives.

 

 

 

Ama Hut Osatsu-Kamado: A Legacy of Resilience and Sustainability 

Mie

 

 

In a small town in Toba City, Mie Prefecture, an inspiring community of women, has preserved an ancient way of life for over two millennia. As I breathed in the scent of the sea and surveyed the Ama Hut nestled in the peaceful town of Osatsu, I felt the pulse of tradition that has sustained the Ama divers. At the Osatsu Kamado, you sit with actual Ama divers. While they prepare a bountiful meal of freshly caught seasonal seafood—from Ise-ebi lobster, abalone, and turban shells to scallops and octopus over a charcoal grill—they also share the rich history of the Ama divers.  

 

 

Listening to their stories with the scent of grilled seafood in the air, I was struck by their unwavering dedication to their craft and its profound impact on their lives and community. In a world increasingly driven by technology, the Ama divers stand out for their simplicity and respect for nature. Unlike conventional divers who rely on oxygen tanks, Ama divers plunge into the depths armed with nothing but their breath. This freediving method dates back over 2,000 years, but the practice is believed to have originated much earlier due to artifacts found to be 5,000 years old. They limit their catch to what they can hold their breath for, ensuring that they never take more than the sea can give. "If we used oxygen tanks, we could just catch as much as we wanted," one veteran Ama diver explained. "But by limiting ourselves, we prevent overfishing and allow marine life to thrive."

 

 

This practice of sustainable fishing has been a cornerstone of Ama diving for centuries. Today, around 2000 Ama divers remain in Japan, with half residing in Toba and Shima Cities combined. In Osatsu town alone, about 80 active divers—the highest number in Japan—continue to follow these age-old practices. The life of an Ama diver is closely tied to the rhythms of the sea. Diving seasons vary, with specific periods dedicated to different seafood like abalone and turban shells. Ama divers only dive once a day, only in the morning, "We dive from 9 AM to 10:30 AM," one diver told me. "It's just one session, but it's intense and requires complete focus." 

 

Talking with a veteran Ama diver was a profoundly empowering experience

 

Since the practice involves significant risks, including potential drowning if they miscalculate their breath-holding capacity, each Ama diver has their own way of mentally preparing themselves. Some offer prayers at local shrines before they set off to sea, while others perform specific gestures or recite chants. "When I dive, I tap the orange lifebuoy there, saying, 'Alright, I'm off.' I do it for my peace of mind," shared the veteran. The divers often face strong currents, poor visibility, and the constant threat of being unable to resurface in time. Yet, their resilience is remarkable. Many Ama divers continue to dive well into their 80s, a testament to their physical and mental strength. "Until last year, our oldest active diver was 88 years old. This year, the oldest is about 84 years old," I was told with pride.

 

 

Although most divers wear wet suits today, they still carry traditional protective symbols somewhere on their bodies. These symbols have remained unchanged since Ama diving started. The seman (star) serves as an emblem of protection, and the doman (net) represents the eyes of the gods watching over them.

 

While sharing their captivating stories, an Ama diver can also teach you how to grill seafood to perfection.

 

 

Efforts to promote sustainable fishing and the cultural significance of Ama diving are gaining traction. By sharing their stories and opening their communities to visitors, the Ama divers are preserving their way of life and educating others about the importance of sustainability. In their resilience and grace, the Ama divers teach us a valuable lesson: that true empowerment comes from within and that by honoring our traditions and respecting nature, we can create a sustainable and fulfilling future for generations to come.

 

 

Ise Jingu Shrine: A Timeless Sanctuary Fostering Continuity

Mie

 

 

Continuing as a beacon of spiritual and cultural heritage in the heart of Mie's history, one cannot help but be enveloped by a sense of timelessness as you walk through its gates. Ise Jingu is dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the revered sun deity  and guardian of the Japanese, believed to be the ancestor of the imperial family. It stands out among more than 80,000 Shinto shrines across Japan. It has been an embodiment of Shinto belief for over 2000 years. As I conversed with the shrine's guide, his pride and respect for this sacred place were palpable. "Japanese people affectionately call it 'O-Ise-san' because it is considered the spiritual home of the Japanese," he explained. "It is where we come to pray, give thanks, and find solace."

 

 

This sentiment is not lost on the locals. For the people of Ise, the shrine is more than a place of worship; it serves as a reminder of their connection to the divine and their cultural roots, offering a sense of continuity and stability in an ever-changing world.

 

The sacred water of Isuzu (fifty bells) River is part of the ritual cleaning process before entering the main shrine.

 

One of the most fascinating aspects of Ise Jingu is its Shikinen Sengu ceremony, a ritualistic rebuilding of the main shrine every two decades. This practice is not just about preservation but about renewal. When the shrine was created, the choice of wood over more durable materials like stone was deliberate and steeped in meaning. "If we were to use stone, the buildings would last much longer," our guide shared. "However, the longevity of the stone would cause the essence and memories associated with the shrine to fade from people's memories. Wood, on the other hand, requires renewal every 20 years. This necessity to rebuild instills a sense of duty and purpose in every generation, ensuring that the knowledge and traditions are passed down through generations." It is poetic how the people of the past decided to make it a way to bridge the past with the future. A poignant reminder of the impermanence of life and the importance of renewal, highlighting the Japanese belief in the cyclical nature of existence, where every end is a new beginning.

 

Stairs leading to the Naiku (Inner Shrine), one of the two main shrines of Ise Jingu

 

As I stood before the main shrine, feeling the weight of history and spirituality around me, I couldn't help but reflect on the profound impact of Ise Jingu on its community. When asked what he wanted visitors to know before visiting Ise Jingu, the guide answered, "We want everyone to appreciate Ise Jingu's spiritual and cultural significance. It's important for us that visitors respect our traditions and contribute to the serene atmosphere of the shrine." He also emphasized the importance of experiencing Ise Jingu firsthand, believing that foreign visitors can truly understand and feel the magnificence and essence of Shinto by visiting Ise Jingu themselves. 

 

 

The shrine is more than just an architectural marvel; it is a living, breathing entity that empowers the lives of those who live in its shadow. For the people of Ise, the shrine is a source of spiritual strength, cultural pride, and economic vitality. It reminds them of their deep-rooted traditions and is a guiding hope for future generations. Visiting Ise Jingu is not just an exploration of Japan's spiritual heritage; it is a journey into the heart of a community that finds its strength and identity through this timeless sanctuary.

After exploring Ise Jingu, stroll along the Oharaimachi, an old-fashioned street near the inner shrine's gate lined with famous gourmet restaurants and delightful souvenir shops.

 

 

Sample Mie's signature Matsusaka Beef in sushi style

 

Many tourists who visit Ise Jingu contribute to the prosperity of local businesses, from traditional inns and eateries to craftsmen selling handmade goods. The shrine's presence reinforces the community's cultural identity, grounding them in traditions that have been upheld for over two millennia. 

 

 

VISON: A Beacon of Cultural Delights and Innovations

Mie

 

 

VISON is not just another facility; it's a vibrant community—a 'beautiful village,' from which its name is derived in Japanese. It is home to locals who strive to keep the tradition alive through their exceptional services and products.

"Picture a village that seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape," explained one of the local representatives. Unlike typical facilities, which are often housed in imposing structures, VISON respects and utilizes the natural slopes and contours of the land. This thoughtful design approach creates an ambiance reminiscent of a traditional village, fostering a sense of belonging and continuity with nature. The facility spans a vast area of about 24 hectares, divided into several distinct areas focusing on either healing, food, or knowledge to provide a comprehensive experience.

VISON's unique culinary offerings are inspired by the famed culinary city of San Sebastián in Spain. "Our founder made numerous trips to San Sebastián, facing multiple rejections before finally establishing a partnership," shared the representative.

 

Wander through the charming corridors of little San Sebastian Street with its three popular Spanish-themed bars

 

Foreign visitors should pay special attention to the 'Wa-VISON' area, a dedicated haven for Japanese cuisine. It boasts a collection of esteemed restaurants and specialty shops that celebrate the rich tapestry of traditional Japanese food culture. Here, you can observe the making of essential Japanese condiments like mirin and vinegar and also participate in a miso-making workshop,  providing a deep dive into the authentic flavors of Japan.

 

Structures in Wa-VISON are inspired by traditional Japanese storehouses

 

One notable store in Wa-VISON is 'Okume,' the first Tokai outpost of the renowned Tsukiji fishmonger Okume, founded in 1871. Discover pure flavor with the world's first custom-made dashi (soup stock) packs, from which you can choose what to put from 24 natural ingredients. This commitment to preserving and showcasing traditional methods is evident throughout VISON, making it a living museum of local culture.

 

Simply fill out a form indicating the ingredients you like for your customized dashi pack

 

 

At the heart of Wa-VISON lies 'AT CHEF MUSEUM,' a dining hall where you can sample the creations of Michelin-starred chefs and renowned culinary artists.

 

 

 

There's also 'Marche VISON,' which brings the farm to your table. Local farmers sell fresh, seasonal produce, showcasing Mie's agricultural bounty.

Another innovative project currently in the works is mobility roads with self-driving electric buses to address modern transportation challenges while preserving the environment. "We're conducting pilot tests for these buses, aiming to provide sustainable and accessible transport solutions for our aging population," the representative highlighted. This forward-thinking approach ensures that VISON remains relevant and resilient in the face of future challenges. 

 

By taking the self-driving bus, you can efficiently tour VISON'S vast area.

 

The true essence of VISON lies in its commitment to enduring values. "We aim to keep the tradition alive and continue working with the community. So, it's not about what will change in a few years but about maintaining and growing this relationship for the next hundred years," the representative emphasized. Walking through its picturesque landscapes, you will be struck by how deeply intertwined VISON is with the lives of the locals. This isn't a place built to attract tourists alone; it's a carefully crafted ecosystem designed to empower and uplift the local community. As I left VISON, I couldn't help but feel inspired by this harmonious blend of tradition, community, and innovation that nurtures the soul of Mie Prefecture.

 

 

Gujo Odori: A Living Tradition that Transcends Generations

Gifu

 

 

Stepping into the historic town of Gujo Hachiman is like being transported to a world where tradition and community spirit come alive. The Gujo Odori (dance), one of Japan's most enduring and enchanting bon odori (a traditional dance honoring ancestors), runs for 30 nights, drawing locals and tourists into a mesmerizing dance that dates back centuries.

 

 

As the rhythmic beats of the Gujo Odori fill the air, the line between visitor and local blurs. Tourists are not mere spectators but active participants in the dance, embraced warmly by the local community. To completely blend in with the festive mood, I rented a yukata from a traditional kimono shop called "Kamiiwa Gofukuten," whose owners are also lifelong participants of the Gujo Odori. I was lucky enough to hear about their stories and insights. One of them shared, "We love it when tourists join us. It's an opportunity for cultural exchange and building new friendships."

 

 

Visitors are encouraged to interact with locals by joining the dance, asking questions about the steps, and learning the traditional songs. The charm of Gujo Hachiman goes beyond its scenic beauty and historic architecture. It's the people who breathe life into this town. "My family has always been a part of Gujo Odori," she began.

 

 

"I remember dancing with my friends as a child, the lanterns casting a soft glow over the streets, and the sound of geta (wooden clogs) echoing through the night." The festival transforms the town into a living tapestry of color and sound, where every participant, whether in a traditional yukata or casual clothes, adds to the collective joy. "The best part is seeing our town come alive," the kimono owner said with nostalgia in her eyes. "The shops are bustling, and everyone is in high spirits. It's not just about the dance but the sense of community it fosters."

 

Kamiiwa Gofukuten's owner will help you wear a yukata, embodying the spirit of cultural exchange

 

Gujo Odori is more than a festival; it celebrates life, culture, and community. When I asked the kimono shop owner for advice for first-time participants, she encouraged me, "Just jump in and dance! Don't worry about making mistakes. The locals are friendly, and everyone's there to have a good time. Respect the space and the people around you, and you'll have an unforgettable experience." It's a place where the past and present dance together harmoniously, and everyone, whether a local or a visitor, becomes part of the story. As you sway to the rhythm of the traditional songs and feel the warmth of the local people, you realize that Gujo Odori is not just an event to witness but an experience to live and cherish.

So, don your yukata, step into the circle, and let the spirit of Gujo Odori sweep you off your feet. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or a curious newcomer, this festival welcomes you with open arms and a heart full of tradition. 

 

 

If you want to take a break, then head to Yanaka Lane, a picturesque alleyway lined with flowing canals and old houses. It's a peaceful retreat from the main festivities, perfect for a leisurely stroll and capturing the essence of Gujo's timeless charm. 

 

Yanaka Lane

 

 

The End of your Journey is a Beginning in Itself

 

A shared moment, a yukata perfectly tied, and the beginning of a night filled with dancing and memories

 

As our journey through the Tokai and Kansai regions conclude, we find ourselves enriched by the profound experiences and timeless traditions that have empowered lives for generations. We see how each destination—Shizuoka's tranquil tea fields, Mie's soothing hot springs, the resilient Ama divers, the ancient Ise Jingu Shrine, multifaceted VISON, and the vibrant Gujo Odori—has woven a tapestry of balance, resilience, and inspiration. These encounters illuminate the delicate harmony between pursuing happiness and ensuring access to life's essentials, highlighting the enduring wisdom of these cultural practices. Yet, as we reach the end of this journey, we recognize that the spirits of the Tokai and Kansai regions continue to inspire, nurturing dreams and ambitions that align with the vision of Expo 2025. May this newfound inspiration guide us toward new horizons and deeper understandings, marking the end of one journey as the beginning of another.