Rural Japan⏤Chiharu Hatakeyama
Ransom Ltd. is proud to present three postcards from rural Japan in partnership Philadelphia-based Peace Cabin. Stories from Itoshima to Kyushu: covering sustainable work & life, the Japanese culture of rest, and the pace of daily living.
Our first entry focuses on rural efforts to create a sustainable life free from corporate dependence, living in time with the rhythm of the natural world.
Following the Great Tohoku Earthquake of 2011, Chiharu and Kōichi realized it was time for a change. Searching for a fresh start, they moved to the country where they now reside in Kyushu with their daughter. Their desire to create a self sustaining ecosystem has given birth to a thriving community living in harmony with the land. Now a huntress by trade, Chiharu also tends to the farmland with Kōichi where they grow their own rice and brew their own sake.
Rather than be alone, they have built and operate a communal Share House to welcome others into this new way of life. Alongside visiting quests, they have forged strong relationships with their neighbors, participating in communal events such as the rice harvest of one another’s fields.
The Hatakeyama’s are an inspiring example of how to a sustainable approach to life and work can create a better existence⏤ not just for the individual, but also their entire community.
Further Reading...
-
Rural Japan⏤Shunsuke & Rina Anai
One families relationship with the local community and the landscape. In partnership with Peace Cabin. -
Rural Japan⏤Chiharu Hatakeyama
The sustainable lifestyle of Chiharu Hatakeyama in Itoshima, Japan. In Partnership with Peace Cabin. -
Rural Japan⏤Hozentai, Kurokawa Onsen.
Our time spent at a very special Ryokan in Southern Japan. In partnership with Peace Cabin.