Celebrating the Launch of the Taiwanese SATOYAMA Initiative Picture Book Series

Taiwanese SATOYAMA Initiative Picture Book Launch Event Report

On December 22, 2025, a significant event was held at the Eslite Life Nihonbashi event space in Tokyo, marking the launch of the Japanese edition of the Taiwanese SATOYAMA Initiative Picture Book Series. This series, published by Two Virgins Co., Ltd., features four exquisite books each depicting compelling stories drawn from Taiwan's rich agricultural landscape and the intricate relationship between humans and nature. The books include:

1. "White Stones on Land, Black Stones in the Sea"
2. "Little Taiwans' White Fish Create Big Waves"
3. "The Song of the Black-faced Spoonbill"
4. "Crossing the Hundred Percent Bridge"

In association with the release, CEO Chen Hsien-chi from SEED DESIGN, the design studio responsible for the book's illustrations, traveled to Japan to join the launch event. Alongside him was Yukiko Soda, the editor-in-chief of the cultural magazine Soil Mag., which focuses on promoting the SATOYAMA lifestyle in Japan.

This event aimed to reflect on modern challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss. It provided a platform for discussing the importance of SATOYAMA, a concept representing harmonious coexistence with nature, and how to pass this philosophy on to future generations from both Taiwanese and Japanese perspectives.

Understanding the SATOYAMA Initiative

The SATOYAMA Initiative focuses on maintaining and reconstructing secondary natural areas, like lush forests and oceans where humans and nature coalesce. This international effort aims to establish a sustainable ecosystem where ecological diversity is preserved while providing essential goods and services for human welfare. In Japan, these areas are notably referred to as SATOYAMA and SATOUMI. The initiative was jointly proposed by Japan's Ministry of the Environment and the United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS).

For more information, visit the official SATOYAMA Initiative website.

About SEED DESIGN

Established with a love for storytelling, SEED DESIGN creates illustrations that not only capture the intricate relationship between humanity and nature but also highlight cultural and historical contexts. Their creative philosophy has earned them international recognition, including prestigious awards like the iF Award in Germany and the Golden Design Award in Taiwan. They emphasize the narration of local stories with global relevance. More about their projects can be found on their Facebook page.

Event Highlights

The event commenced with remarks from Yusuke Goto, a director at Two Virgins, expressing gratitude to the attendees braving the busy year-end season. Following this, video messages were presented by Chen Jun-yuan, the Director-General of Taiwan's Council of Agriculture, and Tsunao Watanabe, the Director of the International Partnership for the SATOYAMA Initiative (IPSI), congratulating the authors and the initiative.

The attendees were introduced to the four colorful illustrated books by CEO Chen Hsien-chi, who shared insights into the stories and issues faced by rural communities depicted in the illustrations. Complementing the book introductions, an animation highlighting each of the four rural communities featured was screened.

A talk session with Chen and Editor-in-Chief Yukiko Soda followed. They discussed significant social issues, such as the relationship between bears and humans, which gained attention in 2025 in Japan. This prompted a broader discussion about coexistence between humans and wildlife. Chen highlighted that both Taiwan and Japan face similar challenges regarding wildlife encroachment due to changing environments.

The event concluded with a thoughtful Q&A session where Chen elaborated on SEED DESIGN’s commitment to creating works that are accessible not just for children but for adults too, instilling these rich narratives into wider societal discourse.

The Significance of the Event

This launch was not merely about the publication of books; it served as a testimony to the cultural exchange between Taiwan and Japan, emphasizing the necessity of nurturing environmental consciousness. Chen expressed the importance of sustainability for younger generations and referred to the event as an essential nurturing ground for future leaders in ecological stewardship. As young individuals return to their roots to innovate and drive sustainable practices, SATOYAMA can evolve into a platform for rejuvenating communities and preserving their heritage.

The Taiwanese SATOYAMA Initiative Picture Book Series illustrates pivotal realities and offers insights into sustainable living, showcasing models that can inspire communities worldwide. Through engaging storytelling, these books aim to instill hope and ignite action towards a sustainable future. Media has the social responsibility to channel these narratives and encourage reflection on our relationship with nature, paving pathways for concrete steps towards sustainability.

For anyone interested in exploring these inspiring tales and the vibrant culture surrounding them, more information and purchasing options can be found on the websites of Two Virgins and the Council of Agriculture - ARDSWC.