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 repurposed financial building. 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, leads the effort to shift the narrative from loss to pride in remaining natural blessings. This approach aims to communicate the charm of Otsuchi’s environment, fostering a sense of pride among residents and attracting tourism through sustainable interaction with the local ecosystem.
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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 repurposed financial building. 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, leads the effort to shift the narrative from loss to pride in remaining natural blessings. This approach aims to communicate the charm of Otsuchi’s environment, fostering a sense of pride among residents and attracting tourism through sustainable interaction with the local ecosystem.
asahi