Innovative Local Initiatives in Japan: From Haunted Houses to Corporate Wellness Retreats

In a unique blend of education and corporate wellness, Takahashi Corporation, based in Chofu, Tokyo, is set to launch two innovative programs in Kohami, Nagano Prefecture, from August 28 to 30, 2026. The initiatives include the "Kohami Elementary School Haunted House Project" aimed at engaging students in exploratory learning and the "Re-Design Session in Kohami," a corporate well-being program designed for working adults. These projects are part of an initiative that promotes community development and education through the CROSS-Tokyo Bunso brand, in collaboration with local revitalization efforts in Kohami and the newly-established HOTEL MIYAM situated beside Lake Matsubara.

Background of the Initiative

Takahashi Corporation operates under the spirit of "Tokyo Bunso," which emphasizes the importance of connecting traditional crafting methods with contemporary educational purposes. Partnering with sociologist Masato Ito, the company aims to extend its activities beyond Tokyo and engage local communities. The two new programs reflect a commitment to enhance educational experiences for children while also providing adults with restorative experiences in a natural setting.

Program Overview

Kohami Elementary School Haunted House Project

Date: August 28, 2026
Venue: Kohami Elementary School
Target Audience: Sixth grade students, teachers, sociologists, and Takahashi Corporation staff

Last year, sixth graders organized a successful haunted house that attracted 146 visitors. This year, the project is set to scale up significantly with professional guidance from Takahashi Corporation. On the project’s launch day, sociologist Masato Ito will facilitate discussions among students, guiding them as they learn to design and manage their haunted house experience. Takahashi Corporation's president, Shinji Takahashi, will share insights from his entrepreneurial experience, offering practical advice on business setup, spatial design, and operational flow, encouraging students to formulate their own plans for the project.

The haunted house event is planned for mid to late November 2026.

Re-Design Session in Kohami

Date: August 28-30, 2026
Venue: Gâteau Kingdom Kohami, Tanukiya, HOTEL MIYAM
Target Audience: Corporate teams (team-building and offsite use)

The Re-Design Session aims to offer a three-day, two-night program that allows corporate teams to rethink mindset and operations in a serene natural environment at an elevation of 1,123 meters. This program steers clear of traditional intensive retreats, opting instead to create an inviting atmosphere for self-care, dialogue, and community engagement. Activities include forest therapy walks around Lake Matsubara, conversational sessions with local practitioners, and opportunities for physical release through movement and campfire dialogue.

Among the speakers for the dialogues is Takeshi Asahara, president of MIYAMOTO Corporation, which operates HOTEL MIYAM. The session is designed to encourage participants to reflect on their work and its broader implications within the tranquil embrace of Kohami’s landscape.

Accommodation and Dining Partners

The programs will feature accommodation and dining provided by HOTEL MIYAM, a newly renovated facility that evolved from the beloved local ryokan Miyamoto-ya, first established in 2025. Operated by MIYAMOTO Corporation, the establishment emphasizes local food sourcing and offers meals characterized as “slow terroir” to enhance the on-site experience.

HOTEL MIYAM embodies the ethos of community revitalization while supporting the Re-Design Session through its dedication to creating restorative experiences in nature.

Comments from Stakeholders

Takeshi Asahara, President of MIYAMOTO Corporation:
"HOTEL MIYAM carries the legacy of the Miyamoto-ya ryokan that once graced Lake Matsubara. By allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature, we aim to help them regain their natural rhythm amidst their hectic lives. I believe the Re-Design Session aligns perfectly with this mission - providing city dwellers with a chance to reconnect with themselves through nature."

Eriko Asada, Kohami's Local Revitalization Project Coordinator:
"The local initiative emphasizes 'awareness' as a key theme. Collaborating with urban enterprises like Takahashi Corporation provides an exciting opportunity for our children to engage and learn. The synergy between children's exploratory learning and adults’ restorative practices can yield fruitful insights and inspiration for our community."

Masato Ito, Sociologist:
"The haunted house project resonates with the very essence of understanding others. Designing such experiences requires a deep empathetic insight into the perspectives of others. This skill is a growing necessity in today’s complex society. Witnessing children’s explorations will be a delightful experience."

Shinji Takahashi, President of Takahashi Corporation:
"Our involvement with the Kohami Elementary School’s haunted house project stems from our passion for education. Equipping children with the courage to tackle unanswered questions and shape solutions enhances their capabilities. We aim to support the kids' ventures with our expertise in design and construction as they embark on this engaging and creative journey."

As the Re-Design Session looks to introduce participants to the unique characteristics of Kohami and leverage the local community’s strengths, both the haunted house project and the wellness retreats symbolize a collaborative approach to fostering growth in this remarkable area. Takahashi Corporation is eager to strengthen its connections with the Kohami community through CROSS-Tokyo Bunso, looking ahead to a promising future for local initiatives.

Company Profile

Company Name: Takahashi Corporation
CEO: Shinji Takahashi
Location: 2-26-14 Kamishihara, Chofu City, Tokyo, 182-0035
Website: https://tobitaka.tokyo/
Phone Number: 042-485-6144

Business Focus

Takahashi Corporation takes a holistic approach to real estate, managing everything from selection and purchasing to design, construction, and maintenance. By merging various aspects of property and construction management, while also embracing traditional cultural practices, the company emphasizes community building and branding through spatial design and innovative architectural solutions.