Young Migrants in Otsuchi Revitalize Post-Disaster Community Through Nature-Based Tourism
In Otsuchi Town, Iwate Prefecture, a non-profit organization named 'Otsuchi no Asobi' is leading community revitalization efforts by organizing unique nature-based tours. Founded by young migrants in their twenties who moved to the area after the Great East Japan Earthquake, the group utilizes local natural resources to engage visitors and entertain local children. Activities include game cuisine preparation from hunted deer, making sushi with locally caught salmon, and exploring regenerating seaweed beds. The initiative is based at 'Kirikiri Umi no Asobiba,' a small aquarium housed in a former financial institution. The project builds upon the 'Otsuchi Treasure Map,' created in 2014 by the Hamagiku Wakadanna Association, which highlights 117 local flora, fauna, and culinary treasures. Representative Riki Oba, a graduate of the University of Tokyo who studied salmon ecology in the region, collaborates with local experts to showcase the town's remaining natural blessings. This approach aims to shift the narrative from loss to pride, conveying the charm of the region to younger generations and visitors alike, thereby giving form to the hopes of disaster victims through sustainable tourism and environmental appreciation.
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Young Migrants in Otsuchi Revitalize Post-Disaster Community Through Nature-Based Tourism
In Otsuchi Town, Iwate Prefecture, a non-profit organization named 'Otsuchi no Asobi' is leading community revitalization efforts by organizing unique nature-based tours. Founded by young migrants in their twenties who moved to the area after the Great East Japan Earthquake, the group utilizes local natural resources to engage visitors and entertain local children. Activities include game cuisine preparation from hunted deer, making sushi with locally caught salmon, and exploring regenerating seaweed beds. The initiative is based at 'Kirikiri Umi no Asobiba,' a small aquarium housed in a former financial institution. The project builds upon the 'Otsuchi Treasure Map,' created in 2014 by the Hamagiku Wakadanna Association, which highlights 117 local flora, fauna, and culinary treasures. Representative Riki Oba, a graduate of the University of Tokyo who studied salmon ecology in the region, collaborates with local experts to showcase the town's remaining natural blessings. This approach aims to shift the narrative from loss to pride, conveying the charm of the region to younger generations and visitors alike, thereby giving form to the hopes of disaster victims through sustainable tourism and environmental appreciation.
asahi