Thoughinaka

03/10/2024

INAKA NO ARUKIKATA: The Real Encounter in Daisen

The weather has finally started to cool down! Join us for a special experience in the Daisen area on November 3rd and 4th. This one-night, two-day tour will immerse you in the breathtaking landscapes of Daisen, featuring activities such as downhill cycling, visiting local farmers, and experiencing the rich history of the Mikuriya fishing village.

Highlights:

Pay What You Feel: Decide the value of your experience based on your satisfaction.
Breathtaking Scenery: Daisen offers stunning views of both mountains and the sea, especially with the autumn leaves in full display.
Intercultural Exchange: Engage in meaningful conversations and cultural exchanges with like-minded participants.
Embracing Diversity: Discover the secrets to living harmoniously in Japan alongside fellow travelers.
Date: November 3rd – 4th
Meeting Point: Primrose Garden, November 3rd, 1:00 PM
Eligible Participants: Open to all over 20 years old
Activities: Downhill cycling, BBQ dinner, picking fresh vegetables with local farmers
Language: Japanese and English

The adventure includes a barbecue dinner with locally picked vegetables, where you can enjoy a complimentary drink and soak in the rural charm. Don't forget to bring your own drinks and snacks, as no convenience stores are nearby.

To apply: https://forms.gle/1k2ML5bAWPfQ8Vxc8
Application Deadline: October 27, 2024

Maximum 10 participants!
We can’t wait to explore Daisen’s hidden gems with you!

For more information
https://thoughinaka.com/tours/2652/

01/10/2024

INAKA NO ARUKIKATA is happening on October 5th!

If you haven’t enrolled yet, there’s still time! I’ll be sending out the Zoom link tomorrow, so make sure to sign up if you’d like to join us. Looking forward to seeing you all there!

INAKA NO ARUKIKATAは10月5日に開催されます！

まだ登録されていない方、まだ間に合います！明日、Zoomのリンクをお送りしますので、ぜひお早めにお申し込みください。皆さんにお会いできるのを楽しみにしています！

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScKQ62fJ-IRj3Zm4hJE2EbUa89GMaBg_qBSizx3RlUflvsf6Q/viewform

https://thoughinaka.com/2648/

Seventh Dialogue: Inaka No Arukikata with Jake from More Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan Introduction Welcome to INAKA NO A

22/09/2024

INAKA NO ARUKIKATA: The Art of Immersion in Rural Japan

Join us for a special online dialogue on October 5th, 2024, at 11 AM (JST) with Jake from "More Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan."

Jake’s journey through rural Japan highlights the beauty of slow travel and the hidden treasures of the countryside. He’ll share fascinating stories, travel tips, and insights from his explorations of Japan’s less-visited regions, perfect for those looking to experience Japan beyond the typical tourist spots.

The event will be bilingual (English & Japanese), moderated by Sameera, creating a unique cross-cultural conversation.

When: October 5th, 2024, 11:00 AM JST
Where: Zoom (Sign up by October 2nd via the link in bio)

Let’s dive into rural Japan and explore its quiet beauty together.
https://thoughinaka.com/2611/


https://thoughinaka.com/2611/

17/09/2024

Exclusive Invitation for Travel Professionals: Monitor & FAM Tours in Japan’s Chugoku Region

Are you a travel professional with a focus on cultural and rural tourism in Japan? We are excited to invite you to join one of our Monitor or FAM Tours in the stunning Chugoku region, taking place between October and December. This is an unparalleled opportunity to explore the cultural, historical, and natural wonders of rural Japan while engaging directly with local communities and traditions.

Tour Highlights:

Mindfulness & Heritage: Participate in the Okage Meguri tour in Tsuyama, practice forest therapy in Chizu, and embark on a spiritual hike at Mt. Mitoku.
Cultural Immersion: Visit historic sites like Kumano Taisha Shrine, take part in a traditional knife-making workshop, and experience the serenity of Izumo Taisha Shrine.
Authentic Stays & Local Cuisine: Relax in traditional inns and hot springs, and enjoy meals featuring local specialties, including vegetarian monk food.
Key Details:

No participation fee—this is a fully hosted tour.
All travel costs (including transportation to and from the tour’s starting point) are covered.
Two professional slots are available for each tour, offering a personalized experience.
Full itineraries will be shared with those interested.
This is your chance to discover the hidden gems of Japan’s Chugoku region and bring these authentic experiences to your clients. If you're interested in joining one of these exclusive tours, send me a direct message for more information and to secure your spot.

08/09/2024

Create Your Name in Kanji with a Calligraphy Master!

Missing Japan? Experience the timeless art of Japanese calligraphy from anywhere in the world with our unique service: "Create Your Name in Kanji with a Calligraphy Master."

Our master calligraphers will transform your name into a beautiful Kanji character, capturing the essence of Japanese culture and your personal story.

Highlights:

Personalized Kanji calligraphy
Live online session with a master calligrapher
English translation of your message
Custom packaging & international shipping
How It Works:

Order Online: Place your order and fill out a brief questionnaire.
Live Session: Schedule and attend your online calligraphy session.
Creation: Watch as your Kanji name comes to life.
Delivery: Receive your artfully packaged masterpiece.
This is our first attempt at offering this extraordinary experience, and we hope it connects you with Japan in a meaningful way. Please share this and help us spread the word!

Ready to make your name a piece of art? Check the link here
https://thoughinaka.com/tours/2494/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXP-Lj_XFB4&t=18s

30/08/2024

I hope everyone is staying safe during the typhoon. Please take care of yourselves and your loved ones during this time. Despite the weather, we’re still looking forward to our special edition of INAKA NO ARUKIKATA next Sunday. If you’re interested in joining us, we still have spots available. We’d love to see you there! Stay safe

台風の影響が心配ですが、皆さまいかがお過ごしでしょうか。ご自身とご家族の安全を第一にお考えください。そんな中でも、来週の日曜日に予定している「田舎の歩き方」特別編を楽しみにしています。まだ参加の枠がありますので、ぜひご参加ください。皆さまのご参加を心よりお待ちしております。どうぞ安全にお過ごしください。

29/07/2024

We are thrilled to share our latest session of INAKA NO ARUKIKATA: The Art of Immersion in Rural Japan on Facebook! Check out the video here: https://youtu.be/LbuDJGIJrRY

Thank you to Nicola for offering us an enchanting glimpse into life on the Oki Islands. Her deep connection and enduring love for Oki are truly inspiring. Nicola shared invaluable insights and the top must-do activity when visiting Oki.

Thank you, Nicola! Having lived there myself, I can vouch for the island's unique charm and the incredible experiences it holds.

We were also honored to host guests from Kenya, who shared their remarkable journey in running a school—such inspiring stories!
Don't miss the details in the video description. I apologize for missing the last part of our recording. Thank you all for your understanding.

Stay tuned for our next INAKA NO ARUKIKATA session on Zoom. See you soon!

Exploring rural Japan can be challenging, and reaching a remote island from the mainland can be even more daunting. Navigating complex transportation and fin...

06/07/2024

Join Us for

INAKA NO ARUKIKATA: The Art of Immersion in Rural Japan – An Online Dialogue

Fifth Dialogue
Theme: Island Living in Japan – Nicola’s Journey in the Oki Islands

We’re thrilled to announce our upcoming event where we’ll explore the charm of rural Japan with a special focus on Islands of Japan. Don’t miss out on insights from our guest, Nicola, who has lived and worked on Oki islands, promoting their unique culture and lifestyle.

Date & Time: July 28th, 2024 (Sun) at 11:00AM JPN

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScKQ62fJ-IRj3Zm4hJE2EbUa89GMaBg_qBSizx3RlUflvsf6Q/viewform>

Get ready to delve into the essence of island life, learn about importance of Islands, and discover why rural Japan is a hidden gem worth exploring!

https://thoughinaka.com/2412/

01/07/2024

https://youtu.be/Y12EoEId0b0?si=1k_dz1YEWb7OWs0M

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the fourth session of INAKA NO ARUKIKATA: The Art of Immersion in Rural Japan—An Online Dialogue! A special thanks to our guest, Ervin, for sharing his insightful experiences and stories about living and working in rural Japan.

If you missed the session or want to revisit the discussion, you can watch the video here: Video Link.

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to our channel for more content exploring the beauty and culture of rural Japan.

INAKA NO ARUKIKATA: The Art of Immersion in Rural Japan – An Online Dialogue (Fourth Session)Theme: INAKA (Rural Japan) and Foreign WorkersIntroduction:Welco...

06/06/2024

https://thoughinaka.com/2358/

INAKA NO ARUKIKATA: The Art of Immersion in Rural Japan – An Online Dialogue

Join us for our fourth dialogue on June 30, 2024! This time, we're diving into the theme of "INAKA (Rural Japan) and Foreign Workers." With Japan's number of foreign workers reaching an all-time high, rural areas face unique challenges and opportunities.

Our special guest, Ervin Garcia, will share his experiences of living and working in rural Japan, shedding light on the true essence of INAKA life. Whether you're an aspiring ALT(Assistant Language Teacher), CIR(Coordinator for International Relations), or simply interested in rural Japan, this event is for you!

Date: June 30, 2024 (Sun)
Time: 10:00 - 11:30 JST
Online via Zoom
Language: English with Japanese translation

Register now and be part of this insightful dialogue!
Visit Our profile page for more information

Theme Theme INAKA (Rural Japan ) and Foreign Workers Introduction Welcome to INAKA NO ARUKIKATA: The Art of Immersion in

25/05/2024

We are pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the third INAKA NO ARUKIKATA online dialogue. We extend our sincere gratitude to our guest, Laura, and all the participants for their valuable contributions.

The theme of this session was INAKA (Rural Japan) and Travel writing. Laura, a writer for GaijinPot, shared insightful perspectives from a foreigner's viewpoint on the desired information and effective communication methods. Her practical advice was truly enlightening.

Laura shared a captivating personal account of her challenges in finding information on Japanese mythology while living in the United States and her subsequent discovery of Shimane, where she now immerses herself in the world of mythology she adores. Her profound knowledge of Nihon Shoki and Fudoki truly showcased her passion.

This session prompted us to contemplate the genuine allure of Japan and the immense value of global individuals like Laura in showcasing the potential of rural areas. We aspire for these insights to reach the right audience.

We have recorded this session for your convenience. Please take the time to review it. We eagerly anticipate the fourth session!

IntroductionWelcome to INAKA NO ARUKIKATA: The Art of Immersion in Rural Japan! What do you think about the dissemination of information in rural areas, whe...

24/05/2024

Exploring Japan’s rural areas can be challenging, especially when it comes to transportation. At ThoughINAKA, we understand these challenges and often recommend renting a car for the best experience.

However, renting a car can be tricky if you don’t speak Japanese. Many rental counters have limited English-speaking staff. That’s why we assist our guests with car rentals, from booking to paperwork, with the help of our local guides.

It’s also essential to know Japanese traffic signs, as some are only in Japanese. Missing signs like “Stop” can lead to accidents. Safety first!

Before you drive in Japan, please familiarize yourself with the local driving rules. Resources like the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) are very helpful.

Need help with travel or car rentals in Japan? ThoughINAKA is here for you!



For more information and assistance, visit our website.

06/05/2024

Thank you very much to everyone who participated in the Inaka No Arukikata real encounter in Okuizumo. Thanks to all of you, we had a wonderful experience. During this tour, we aimed to explore the charm of the region from different perspectives, including Japan and foreign countries, rural and urban areas, and share not only tourist attractions but also the real aspects of the region. We wanted to create an environment where conversations could happen comfortably, in both English and Japanese, at your own pace, without the constraints of a typical guided tour. It was a space where everyone could freely share opinions and knowledge, leading to various learnings and insights.

I am grateful for everyone's cooperation and support. I personally had a very meaningful experience. I look forward to continuing to take on new challenges. To all those who joined us and those who couldn't make it this time, I hope we'll have the opportunity to travel together again in the future. Thank you all, and let's keep in touch.

03/05/2024

地方での観光促進や地域の魅力を発信するお仕事に携わっている皆さん、情報発信にお悩みではありませんか？

素晴らしい自然環境があるにもかかわらず、なかなか観光客が訪れてくれない、特に外国人観光客が少ないというのは、地方の観光関係者にとってよく聞かれる悩みですね。

本当の情報発信の課題は一体何なのでしょうか？情報発信が目的になって、見栄えの良いパンフレットや写真を作成し、それを求めていない人々に無差別に配布することで満足していませんか？

私も観光業界で長い間働いてきましたが、情報発信に多額の資金や時間を費やしてきたケースをたくさん目にしてきました。情報発信は、本当に訪れてほしい人々に向けて情報を提供し、彼らのニーズや体験を考慮したものでなければならないと感じるようになりました。

そこで、今回のINAKA NO ARUKIKATAでは、山陰を愛するLuaraさんをゲストに迎え、田舎の情報発信について彼女の見解を聞きたいと思います。外国人の視点や求めるものについて、興味深いトークを期待しています。

【ゲストプロフィール】
Luaraさん

こんにちは！私はLuaraです。元々はアメリカのオレゴン州出身で、現在は日本で2番目に人口の少ない島根県に住んでいます。

2017年にJETプログラムのALT（語学助手）として島根に移住しました。その地域の歴史やお茶文化、日本神話との深い関わりにすぐに惹かれました。

2020年に一時帰国しましたが、2021年に島根での仕事の機会が訪れ、すぐに戻りました。現在は地元の大学で英語を教える傍ら、GaijinPot Travel、GaijinPot Blog、Japan Todayなどで記事を執筆しています。

島根に住んでいた頃、オンライン上の情報が不足していることを実感しました。そのため、私の現在の仕事を通じて、島根の独自の魅力を伝え、旅行者がより知られざる場所を訪れることを促したいと考えています。

【イベント情報】
INAKA NO ARUKIKATA Vol.3:INAKA（Rural Japan ) and Travel writing　 （地方の情報発信について）

日時: 2024年5月25日（土）10:00〜11:30 JST
場所: Zoom（お申し込みいただいた方にリンクを送信します）
参加対象: 地方の観光や文化に興味がある方、交流したい方
言語: シンプルな日本語（英語も可）
申込: https://forms.gle/GCSL2HwwMLw65u7E7（5月20日までに申し込んでください）
【プログラム】

オープニング: イベント概要の紹介
ゲストプレゼンテーション: ローラさんによる田舎の生活や経験についてのプレゼンテーション
質疑応答: 参加者とゲストの間での質問や意見交換
ネットワーキング: 参加者同士の情報交換の時間
皆さんのご参加をお待ちしています！

29/04/2024

We are thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of our recent INAKA NO ARUKIKATA online session. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all participants for their enthusiastic engagement and valuable contributions.

We would like to extend a special acknowledgement to our esteemed guest, Marco, whose captivating presentation inspired and enlightened us. Marco’s journey in NARA vividly embodied the ethos of a modern-day Samurai, committed to preserving cultural values, sharing invaluable insights into Akiya renovation, and fostering harmonious relationships with his neighbors while garnering their support.

We deeply appreciate the vibrant discussions and interactions that enriched our session. It was truly heartwarming to witness participants from diverse backgrounds united by a shared passion for intercultural exchange and a genuine curiosity about the authentic stories of Akiya and rural Japan.

Despite the holiday season in Japan, we were fortunate to have enthusiastic participants from across the globe. While acknowledging areas for improvement on the organizing front, we cherish the opportunity to share and connect.

We extend our sincerest gratitude to Marco for his exceptional presentation. His expertise and dedication were truly inspiring, and we feel privileged to have had him contribute to this enlightening session.

Once again, we thank all participants for their involvement and enthusiasm. Let’s continue to spread the word and share the beauty of rural Japan with the world!

13/04/2024

Exciting News Alert!
　Seido Kino, the insightful photographer closely collaborating with ThoughINAKA, will showcase his latest work, “x elements/Growth,” at Horikawa Oike Gallery in Kyoto. Don’t miss this KG+ SELECT event from April 13th to May 12th! More info on the KG+ website.

Join us for a special talk event on April 27th, where I’ll speak alongside Seido Kino and Kei Nakayama, CEO of ROOTS, on “Connecting Travelers and Local Communities.” Let’s explore captivating stories behind Kino’s Okuizumo photography!

📆 Save the date and immerse yourself in the beauty of rural Japan through Seido Kino’s lens.

07/04/2024

I want to share the story of the curry I’m making for “Inaka no Arukikata: The Real Encounter” and how it differs from other curries, as well as explain the difference between hot and spicy.

When I first came to Japan, I had no idea how to prepare curry. It was a time before YouTube tutorials, so I relied on self-experimentation, which led to many mistakes.

As you may know, Sri Lankans can eat curry for all three meals, which surprises many people. However, if you were to suggest eating Japanese curry for three meals, it might seem impossible.

Each curry has its own unique flavors, spices, and ingredients. Many people ask if it’s hot, while others ask if it’s spicy. One of the tour participants asked the same question, prompting me to think about how to explain the difference.

Firstly, hot and spicy are two different things. Curry can be spicy without being hot. Hotness comes from chili, including Sri Lankan pepper, which contributes to the heat.

In Sri Lankan curry, we use Thunapaha curry powder, which consists of coriander, cumin, and around 10 other spices. This blend is what makes Sri Lankan curry unique, and each household has its own blend. Many moms still make their own home-style curry powders with their unique blends.

I still ask my mom to make me Thunapaha, and she sends it all the way from Sri Lanka. Some households add chili to the blend, making the curry powder itself hot.

For the curry I’m making, one will be a bit hot with a little chili, and the other will be without chili, and both are vegetarian-friendly.

If you’d like to join us, you are welcome. But if you are thinking of joining full tour, hurry up! We only have two slots available at Tsukaru.

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