#Japan #UKIHA RIVERCAMP #VILLAGE INC #Takara Leben #Ukiha

UKIHA RIVERCAMP Grand Opening: A New Beginning for a Local Gem

On April 12, the much-anticipated UKIHA RIVERCAMP officially opened its doors to the public, marking a significant transformation of the former Himeji Elementary School in Ukiha City, Fukuoka Prefecture. Under the collaboration of Takara Leben Co., Ltd., and VILLAGE INC, this venture aims to revitalize local tourism while preserving the legacy of the historic school.

A Triumphant Opening Event

The grand opening event was graced by the presence of Mayor Gondo of Ukiha City, along with key representatives from both Takara Leben and VILLAGE INC. Each speaker expressed their vision for the new campsite, emphasizing the importance of community and local engagement. The event culminated in a symbolic peg-planting ceremony, a modern twist on the traditional ribbon-cutting.

Mayor Gondo expressed his heartfelt sentiments about the transformation. He highlighted how Himeji Elementary School had been a beloved institution in the region and how the revitalization into UKIHA RIVERCAMP could serve as a success model for similar projects across the nation. His hopeful vision includes further utilization of the school's facilities to enhance community engagement and activity.

VILLAGE INC President, Kazunori Hashimura, shared insights about the project’s inception back in 2018, which was temporarily halted due to the pandemic. His enthusiasm to see the project come to fruition reflects the collaborative effort between local government, VILLAGE INC, and Takara Leben. With this campground, VILLAGE INC aims to create a vibrant hub in the Kyushu area.

Takara Leben’s manager, Mr. Mimura, added that this new campsite is set to start a fresh historical chapter for the old school. He reiterated the company’s vision of uplifting local communities through various initiatives.

Memorable Guest Experiences

On the opening day, 15 groups of guests, totaling about 40 people, enjoyed the festivities. After participating in the grand opening events, guests were treated to a lunch showcasing local specialties, including Ukiha's renowned soba noodles. The afternoon offered a range of activities such as barrel sauna experiences and a BBQ under the stars, allowing visitors to indulge in the beauty of the spring season in Ukiha.

Commitment to Community Revitalization

This initiative aligns with the overarching mission of the companies involved, which is to create sustainable environments that contribute positively to society. The group sets its sights on utilizing this campground as a catalyst for local tourism while addressing regional challenges like underutilized properties. They envision increased tourism, local employment opportunities, and a boost in cultural exchange through this project.

Moreover, in case of emergencies, UKIHA RIVERCAMP will also be available as a shelter, reinforcing its role in local disaster preparedness.

Facility Overview

UKIHA RIVERCAMP Details:

• - Location: Ukiha City, Fukuoka Prefecture
• - Access: 14 minutes by car from Ukiha Station
• - Size: 9,567 square meters
• - Number of Sites: 20
• - Amenities: Center house, barrel sauna, fire pits, and more.
• - Website: UKIHA RIVERCAMP

About VILLAGE INC

Founded in 2012, VILLAGE INC specializes in outdoor field development, including campgrounds and glamping experiences, with a mission to enhance local tourism through innovative projects. Their website is VILLAGE INC.

About Takara Leben

Established in 1989, Takara Leben has a strong focus on real estate development, including new condominiums and property management. More can be found on their site Takara Leben.

This renovation of the former school into the UKIHA RIVERCAMP is not just about creating a camping site; it’s about re-establishing connections within the community and setting a precedent for future projects aimed at reviving historical structures for communal benefits.