Crafting New Experiences

I had the good fortune of spending a week in Nishiawakura during the Forest Festival in October, 2024. As a ceramicist I was invited to participate in the once a year firing of a noborigama climbing kiln with a master artist. I met other master artists in such crafts as dye, metals, and wood witnessing how they bring the natural resources into their work. I observed the vibrancy of community projects such as an after- school program, a renovation of a senior center, and a farm to table restaurant and education center. In addition, wearing my other hat as a professor emeritus in art education, I led two workshops on creativity: one for middle school children in a well- resourced after school program and one for adults as part of the forest festival. The adults were artists, educators, environmentalists, and those working in the local tourist office. Through these workshops and other interactions in the village I was able to witness a sincere commitment to the integration of nature and art and a passion to work collaboratively. From my perspective, Nishiawakura offers an inspiring and accessible model for anyone who wishes to observe exemplary ways to bring sustainability to life.

I first came to Nishiawakura to visit Tatsuya Inoue; COO of VUILD, the Japanese company that ShopBot works with to distribute our machines in Japan. I quickly realized why Tatsuya wanted me to travel all the way to Nishiawakura instead of meeting with him at the VUILD offices in Kawasaki like we had done in the past – what he wanted to show me was the forestry economy of the village with ShopBot at the center of many of the businesses in the valley. The soothing scent and clean, light wood of the hinoki (cypress) that is harvested in the hills above the valley can be found everywhere in the village – furniture, toys, even the locally brewed beer! But it wasn't just what the people were making – it was the people themselves...to start a business in a small village is risky; villages like Nishiawakura are in decline all over Japan as young people move away and fewer children are born. By necessity, everyone that I met was passionate about what they were doing, where they were doing it and how they were doing it. So, I make it a point to come to Nishiawakura every time I visit Japan – I'm often there for work; but I'm also there to remind myself of why I do what I do and to get inspired by people who care as much about their craft as I do mine.

Our stay at Hiromi and Olivier's place (Nokishita Toshokan B&B) was nothing short of extraordinary. Hosting a yoga retreat in this serene and thoughtfully designed haven was a deeply enriching experience for both myself and the participants. The village is nestled in the heart of lush greenery, surrounded by rolling hills and vibrant forests. Mornings began with the soothing sounds of birdsong and fresh, crisp air—perfect for sunrise yoga sessions. The natural beauty of the area inspired a profound sense of calm and connection, allowing everyone to feel grounded and present. We incorporated art workshops (for example paper making, calligraphy drawing , etc.) into the retreat, and the setting made it easy for participants to tap into their inner creativity. What truly sets Nishiawakura apart is its dedication to sustainability. From solar-powered energy systems to eco-conscious building materials, every detail reflects a commitment to the environment. This ethos resonated deeply with our retreat’s focus on mindful living and left a lasting impression on all who attended. Hiromi’s strong connection with the local community played a significant role in making our retreat a success. Their warmth, hospitality, and attention to detail ensured that everything ran smoothly. Finally, Nishiawakura is more than just a destination—it’s a transformative experience. Its harmonious blend of nature, art, health, and sustainability creates the ideal setting for a yoga retreat or any wellness-focused gathering. We left feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and deeply connected to ourselves, each other, and the world around us. I wholeheartedly recommend Hiromi and Olivier's Okayama yoga Retreat for anyone seeking a meaningful escape and an opportunity to align with their inner and outer worlds.

Every time I visit Nishiawakura I feel a warm welcome from the local community. There is a beautiful balance of passion and expertise, alongside seeking spirits enquiring and learning from other industries and cultures. I participated in the Forest Art Festival in 2024 where the strength of the community came to the fore, with a brilliant network of creative and like minded people coming together to celebrate this special place. I’m always excited to revisit Nishiawakura to see how projects and initiatives have evolved. I will maintain my connection with everyone I have met and truly admire their care and nurturing spirit to allow each individual's potential to flourish.

"At the end of 2023, I left my hectic environment to travel alone, backpacked, to Japan for 3 months. I wanted to get off the beaten track and live with Japanese people. So I contacted Hiromi to stay with her in Nishiawakura for 1 week! Both independent and integrated into the family, I had a dream week. The nature was magnificent: very green, surrounded by mountains and forests! In addition to discovering local crafts, I had the chance to take ceramics classes with a potter. To explore the immediate surroundings, Hiromi had provided me with a small electric car which enabled me to get around easily. Nishiawakura really is a village like no other. The dynamism of its inhabitants is out of the ordinary. I met very welcoming, open-minded people in the public baths, small restaurants and shops. Not to mention Olivier, Hiromi and their 2 sons. But what surprised me even more was this “Third Place”, Base 101% run by A0 Group, which focuses on the wood industry and environmental protection. Extremely dynamic, with a café and a restaurant, this place showcases the know-how of the locals! Nishiawakura was my best experience in Japan. Thank you Hiromi for your welcome, your availability and our exchanges."