#Japan #Tokyo #Yakushima #Usuki #U-WA

Engage with Nature: Event Linking Yakushima and Usuki

In today’s fast-paced digital world, how often do we find ourselves glued to our smartphones? It’s a question that resonates with many, particularly in the context of an upcoming event aimed at bridging the gap between urban life and nature. On September 15, 2026, U-WA Co., Ltd. will participate as a guest speaker in a talk event at the local hub space "OFF TOKYO" in Chuo, Tokyo, organized by Shibire Inc. This event focuses on the theme of connecting two remarkable regions: the World Natural Heritage site of Yakushima and the historically rich city of Usuki in Oita Prefecture. Both regions are celebrated for their natural beauty and historical significance, offering a unique perspective on how city dwellers can engage with rural settings.

Background of the Event

The interest in relocating to rural areas has been on the rise, especially among those residing in the Tokyo metropolitan area. A survey conducted by the Cabinet Office indicated that the percentage of people in the Tokyo area interested in regional migration grew from 30.2% in 2020 to 35.1% in 2023. This trend is particularly prominent among younger adults aged 20-29, where interest rose from 39.2% to 44.8%. Despite this increasing curiosity, many find it challenging to take the leap into full relocation.

In this context, the concept of "relationship population" emerges as a transitional step. According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, about 22% of residents aged 18 and older are categorized as "relationship population," engaging with specific regions without committing to full migration. Notably, approximately half of those in this demographic visit their chosen areas for just two to seven days per year, suggesting that short stays can facilitate deeper connections with local communities.

This event will function as a platform to inspire attendees through experiences related to the natural allure of Yakushima and the culinary and living attractions of Usuki. It aims to encourage exploration of new ways of living while integrating urban and rural lifestyles.

Event Details

The event, titled "Retreat to Rebalance Yourself: New Ways of Living Starting from Yakushima and Usuki," will take place on September 15, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM (with registration beginning at 6:45 PM). The venue is the local hub space OFF TOKYO, located at 21-1 Kodenmachō, Chuo-ku, Tokyo.

• - Participation Fee: 1,000 yen (only electronic payment will be accepted)
• - Organizer: Shibire Inc.
• - Speaker: Kazuma Uchi, CEO of U-WA Co., Ltd.
• - Application Page: Event Registration

Who Should Attend?

The event is designed for individuals who find themselves consistently engaged with digital screens and are yearning for a change in their work-life balance without committing to permanent relocation. It aims to attract:

• - Individuals who have not spent even one day away from their smartphones in the last month.
• - Those who are contemplating changes in their lifestyle or work but are unsure about moving permanently.
• - City dwellers looking for ways to connect with rural communities while maintaining urban living.
• - Anyone feeling overwhelmed by societal expectations of what they "should" be doing but uncertain about their personal desires.
• - Travelers interested in exploring Yakushima or Usuki.

Talk Theme: "Tokyo Has Too Many Answers"

The conversation will kick off with the statement, "Tokyo has too many answers," reflecting the speaker’s experiences transitioning from Yakushima back to the metropolis. The event will explore:

• - The balance between mental contemplation and physical experiences in modern life.
• - The value of disconnecting from digital screens.
• - Approaches to embracing the weather and nature in Yakushima, as illustrated by the writer Fumiko Enchi's portrayal of the island's rain.
• - Insights into contrasting living environments: urban Tokyo versus natural Yakushima.
• - Engaging in meaningful conversations without judgment through activities like a "Talking Circle" by the campfire.
• - Discussing the unexpected change within a participant who previously thought it impossible to take four days off work.

Upcoming Yakushima Retreat Announcement

During the event, U-WA will announce the dates for the 2026 Yakushima Retreat, a four-day experience led by seasoned guide Hiromi Suzuki from EARTH TRIBES. Set for October 23-26, 2026, the retreat, limited to twelve participants, is designed to reconnect participants with nature. The itinerary encourages experiencing and appreciating natural surroundings rather than emphasizing strenuous activities. This journey focuses on engaging all the senses and will include:

• - "Tuning with Water" by floating in high-clarity rivers.
• - "Tuning with Forest" through quiet walks away from tourist paths.
• - Making choices based on the day’s weather and personal state during the "Tuning with Self" segment.
• - Celebrations of participants’ journeys.

The emphasis is on personal discovery and interaction with nature, providing an ideal starting point to appreciate the regional uniqueness, and it contributes to U-WA's commitment to enhancing mental resilience through such experiences.

Speaker Profile

Kazuma Uchi is a mental asset coaching expert and CEO of U-WA Co., Ltd. His unique journey from being an iOS engineer to establishing a coaching company is rooted in his experiences of burnout and disconnection while thriving in a demanding urban environment. Uchi founded the company with a mission to help individuals build their mental strengths and navigate life’s challenges creatively.

Conclusion

The upcoming event underscores an evolving conversation about urban living and rural engagements. It reflects a growing awareness of the importance of stepping away from technology to rediscover oneself in nature. By connecting with Yakushima's wonders and Usuki's cultural heritage, attendees may find inspiration to redefine what living authentically means in their lives. For further inquiries or to register for the event, please reach out to Kazuma Uchi from U-WA Co., Ltd. at [email protected] or call 090-3524-8641.