Kurayado Uzumaki Selected as a Finalist for the Japan Travel Awards
Have you heard of the Japan Travel Awards? This prestigious award recognizes outstanding contributions to Japan’s tourism industry, showcasing initiatives that are shaping the future of travel. Out of 196 entries this year, only 16 finalists were chosen, and we’re thrilled to share that Kurayado Uzumaki in Okuizumo is among them!
Guests who journey to Kurayado Uzumaki often leave with a deep sense of satisfaction, their faces reflecting the unique and unforgettable experiences they’ve had. The heartfelt world created by the owners leaves a lasting impression, making guests wish they could stay just a little longer.
We are incredibly proud of this achievement and extend our heartfelt congratulations to the team at Kurayado Uzumaki. At ThoughINAKA, we’re inspired to continue sharing the hidden gems of rural Japan, creating unforgettable journeys for all.
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Craft Tradition: Weave the Sacred Rope of Japan
Step into the sacred world of Shimenawa—the iconic rope used in Shinto rituals to purify and protect. This hands-on experience lets you craft your own Shimenawa using the same rice straw as the famous rope at Izumo Taisha.
What You’ll Experience:
• Create your personalized Shimenawa with guidance from master craftsmen.
• Choose decorations, including Omamori (amulets), to make it uniquely yours.
• Learn the traditional techniques of binding and shaping rice straw.
• Enjoy a casual chat and Q&A with local artisans about the craft and culture
Immerse yourself in Japan’s spiritual heritage and take home a piece of its sacred tradition. Book now at ThoughINAKA and start your journey into the heart of rural Japan.
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Welcome to 2025 with ThoughINAKA!
This year, we’re diving deeper into the heart of rural Japan, offering a variety of authentic activities that celebrate tradition, craftsmanship, and meaningful connections.
Experience the timeless art of Japanese paper-making and craft your own “washi” with the guidance of passionate local artisans. But that’s not all—join us for knife-making workshops, soba noodle making, and other hands-on activities that showcase the beauty and heritage of rural Japan.
Our Storytellers, local guides with a deep love for their communities, will bring each experience to life with fascinating stories and cultural insights.
Let’s make 2025 the year of exploring the soul of Japan! Start your journey with ThoughINAKA and discover the magic waiting off the beaten path.
#ThoughINAKA #RuralJapan #JapanesePaperMaking #WashiPaper #AuthenticJapan #HiddenJapan #TraditionalCrafts #TravelToConnect #CulturalExperience #RealJapan #Storytellers #SustainableTravel #OffTheBeatenPath #Craftsmanship #TransformativeTravel #RegenerativeTourism #InakaAdventures
Year-End Message from ThoughINAKA
As we bid farewell to 2024 and prepare to welcome 2025, we reflect on a year filled with meaningful connections, memorable journeys, and the continued pursuit of our mission: connecting the rustic soul of Japan to the world.
This year, as Japan saw record-breaking numbers of inbound tourists, we observed the challenges of over-tourism in urban hotspots. The crowds may be flocking to cities, but the services and experiences once synonymous with Japan’s hospitality are at risk of decline. On the other side, rural areas—where traditions thrive, and authentic connections flourish—still hold untapped potential but face unique challenges such as access, infrastructure, and visibility.
At ThoughINAKA, we remain committed to bridging these gaps. Every itinerary we create is tailored to individual needs, offering not just trips but transformative experiences rooted in Japan’s rural heartlands. From knife-making workshops with master craftsmen to sharing meals with local communities, our goal is to bring you closer to the soul of Japan, one story at a time.
We owe immense gratitude to our local guides—our storytellers—whose passion brings every journey to life, and to the artisans, chefs, and community members who welcome travelers with open arms. Your enthusiasm and dedication inspire us every day.
To our dearest guests,thank you for your willingness to step off the beaten path, for driving those extra miles
to meet us, and for embracing the true essence of rural Japan. Your curiosity and appreciation fuel our mission and give meaning to our work.
As we step into 2025, we are excited to introduce new offerings—curated retreats, bespoke itineraries, and regenerative tourism experiences—crafted for those seeking peace, authenticity, and deeper connections. Together, let’s continue exploring Japan’s hidden treasures and creating unforgettable memories.
Here’s to another year of meaningful journeys and shared storie
Get ready to conquer the iconic Mount Mitoku
A breathtaking climb that connects you to Japan’s ancient spirituality, history, and nature
Feel the power of the mountain and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. Don’t just visit Japan, experience its true essence!
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Experience the Art of White Porcelain at Hakuji Kobo
Dive into Shimane’s rich tradition of handcrafted white porcelain! At Hakuji Kobo, you’ll discover the beauty of delicate pottery shaped by master artisans. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful, hands-on experience to create something truly unique.
Where: Hakuji Kobo, Shimane
What to expect:
• Learn traditional pottery techniques.
• Create your own masterpiece with expert guidance.
• Immerse yourself in Japan’s craftsmanship and culture.
Make your trip unforgettable with this one-of-a-kind activity! Book now via ThoughINAKA to explore Shimane like never before.
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#caligraphy #japanese #lovejapan #kanji #name #nameart
Explore Rural Japan’s Crafts with a Living Legend!
Experience on an extraordinary journey to discover traditional craftsmanship in rural Japan. Experience the art of knife making firsthand, guided by a master artisan with decades of expertise.
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