#Japan #NIKI Hills Winery #Outdoor Experience #Keizo Funatsu #Akaiwa

A Unique Hiking Adventure for Kids in Hokkaido

In the heart of Hokkaido, where the stunning landscapes beckon, an extraordinary event is set to unfold. On March 8, 2026, DAC Future Support Cultural Council, in collaboration with the Moriiku (Forest Learning) project committee, will host a special program called 'Moriiku Ryoukum Hiking – Let's Search for a Little Spring with an Adventurer!'. This exciting initiative invites children from Akaiwa Village and Niki Town to embark on a memorable adventure led by the world-renowned explorer, Keizo Funatsu, who is also the general manager of NIKI Hills Winery.

Embracing Local Love and Challenge

1. Fostering Love for the Homeland

Despite being surrounded by nature, today's children have fewer opportunities to explore local wilderness areas. This event aims to bridge that gap by allowing participants to hike through the mesmerizing snow-covered mountains of their region, nurturing an innate love for their homeland. The hands-on experience will provide an understanding of the local ecosystem’s beauty and diversity.

2. Learning from a True Adventurer

Participants will walk alongside Keizo Funatsu, a seasoned adventurer known for completing a dog sled relay across Antarctica. His firsthand tales and experiences will captivate the children, encouraging them to explore their curiosity, foster a willingness to take on challenges, and innovate their senses through interaction with nature.

3. Building Connections Beyond Communities

Targeting students from the fourth grade to junior high school (ages 9-15) from both Akaiwa Village and Niki Town, the event promises to cultivate friendships beyond school boundaries. Sharing stunning vistas will promote teamwork and strengthen relationships while striving towards a common goal together.

Highlights of the Hiking Experience

This unique hiking adventure will feature one-of-a-kind scenery, exclusively accessible during the snowy season. The course will begin at Reizei Pass in Akaiwa Village, leading to Mount Ebisu and Mount Daikoku along the ridge trail.

Discovering the Beauty of Winter

Participants will enjoy the snowy expanses and partake in fun winter activities during lunch breaks, making the most of the winter season’s offerings. This immersive experience promises not just a trek but a celebration of winter's joys and wonders.

Event Overview

• - Event Name: Moriiku Ryoukum Hiking – Let's Search for a Little Spring with an Adventurer!
• - Date: March 8, 2026 (Sunday), 8:15 AM – 2:45 PM (tentative)
• - Location: Akaiwa Village, Hokkaido (Route from Reizei Pass to Mount Ebisu, Mount Daikoku, and along the Ikeda ridge)
• - Meeting Place: Akaiwa Village Office Parking Lot
• - Participants: Students from Akaiwa Village and Niki Town (4th grade to junior high, 13 participants max; no accompanying parents)
• - Participation Fee: Free (Includes lunch and snacks)
• - Instructor: Keizo Funatsu (Adventurer / General Manager of NIKI Hills Winery)
• - Organizer: Moriiku Project Committee
• - Support: Akaiwa Village, Akaiwa Village Board of Education, Niki Town, Niki Town Board of Education
• - Cooperation: Kiloro Resort LLC, Akaiwa Village International Resort Promotion Association, DAC Future Support Cultural Council, East Daily Co., Ltd., NIKI Hills Winery

Tentative Schedule for the Day

(Schedule may vary based on weather and snow conditions)

• - 08:15: Gather at Akaiwa Village Office Parking Lot
• - 08:30: Bus transfer to Reizei Pass summit
• - 09:00: Trekking begins (Reizei Pass – Mount Ebisu – Mount Daikoku)
• - 11:30: Lunch, break, and snow play
• - 12:45: Depart from the summit (Mount Daikoku – Ikeda)
• - 14:45: Arrival and disband at Akaiwa Village Office

About the Instructor

Keizo Funatsu has earned his place as a celebrated explorer, having led an international dog sledding team across Antarctica from 1989 to 1990. He currently leads NIKI Hills Winery, fostering a love for nature and outdoor exploration among young learners.

How to Apply

To join this enriching experience, please complete the dedicated application form by February 27, 2026. Application Form

Contact for Event Details

For questions regarding the event schedule or local conditions, contact:

• - Akaiwa Village Office, General Affairs Division
• - Phone: 0135-34-6211 (Attn: Amano)

About DAC Future Support Cultural Council

This non-profit organization promotes social contribution activities aimed at empowering youth, rooted in the philosophy of the DAC Group. Their initiatives, including the nationally endorsed 'MiraSapo Painting and Essay Contest' and 'DAC Seven Summits Adventure Classroom,' nurture courage, experiences, and gratitude among children.
More about DAC Future Support

About DAC Group

Located in Ueno, Tokyo, the DAC Group has been a leader in advertising for over 63 years, focusing on integrated advertising, human resources, tourism, and global marketing. Their initiatives also encompass agriculture, winemaking, and community-focused social contributions.

• - Company Name: DAC Holdings Inc.
• - Representative: Kazunori Ishikawa
• - Headquarters: 〒110-0015 Tokyo, Taito-ku, Higashi-Ueno 4-8-1, TIXTOWER UENO 13F
• - Employees: 903 (Total DAC Group)
• - Website: DAC Group