Northern Hokkaido

Dive deep into the culture by seeing first hand the sustainability efforts that are being enacted across Hokkaido through different ways locals have adapted to living off the land while also experiencing different adventures across Northern Japan. The virtual adventure consists of three different locations across Hokkaido, each offering its own unique cultural experience. Traveling to Shimokawa, a town considered one of the “Future Cities” by the Japanese government that is known for its forest resources, we learn how to sculpt chopsticks using timber offcuts and a “Kan’an”, a traditional Japanese tool. Entering into the vast forest of Hokkaido, now it’s time to relax and find peace while forest bathing. Along the way to these paths, we’ll collect items such as twigs and leaves from the Sakahlin fir which they will then use to create our very own essential oils. Travelers will also meet Kaori Yamada who started a small business producing organic herbal cosmetics where travelers get to try their hand at making their own organic herbal soap which embodies the power of nature. And finally, we’ll also meet a local deer hunter who has found creative ways to sustainably use all parts of the deer. The viewer will see beautiful leather crafts from deerskin tanned by the woman herself and truly get to understand what living at peace with nature looks like.