#Japan #Shibuya #Free School #Iruka House #Shima Camp

Shima Camp: A Gateway to Nature for Children's Growth

In Shibuya, the NPO Iruka House (run by Free School Maimai) is preparing for the next phase of its beloved Shima Camp. Held from September 13 to 14, the camp offered urban children the chance to explore the natural beauty of Niijima, a volcanic island with stunning white beaches and vibrant marine life.

The Camp Experience

During this year’s event titled "Kids Camp in Niijima," five elementary school children completed a rewarding trek to the island's coastline. From the moment they left Shibuya, excitement filled the air as they boarded a high-speed ferry from Takeshiba. The journey to Niijima included trekking, beach activities, and a glimpse into the fascinating world of glass-making at a local workshop. Children not only enjoyed outdoor cooking but also experienced the thrill of spotting shooting stars at night.

The island features predominantly Koga stone, a unique white rock from which beautiful glass products are made. As the children stepped into the sea, they were greeted by colorful fishes, making their experience truly magical.

A Day-to-Day Breakdown

The first day began early with all participants arriving promptly at the meeting point. After a warm farewell from their parents, they quickly settled into their accommodations, ready for adventure. The guide drove them to the trailhead, and despite some initial complaints about exhaustion and insects, every child successfully completed the trek and was rewarded with breathtaking views of the coastline.

Next, they visited the Glass Museum, witnessing the transformation of stone into glass, which sparked a newfound appreciation for the vibrant green glass they had seen crafted from local materials.

The evening was filled with teamwork as the children split responsibilities for cooking. They faced the challenge of creating a meal outdoors, overcoming their preferences and building camaraderie as they shared a delicious meal under the stars. The night concluded with moments of laughter around a campfire before heading to a local onsen for relaxation, though a minor incident with a locker added excitement to their evening.

A Promising Second Day

On the second day, a five-year-old boy awakened early to help prepare breakfast, showcasing the growth and responsibility fostered by this experience. Breakfast included an assortment of breads, vegetables, and cheeses along with lively conversations among the children.

The group then enjoyed swimming, with some searching for seashells while others braved the waves. The conditions were just perfect, allowing for laughter-filled moments as they rode the waves together. After an exhilarating time, they expressed gratitude to the local hosts, acknowledging the warmth of their visit and the feelings of belonging they experienced during their stay.

After collecting souvenirs, the children headed back to Tokyo filled with memories, workshops, and new friendships. The entire experience not only nurtured their exploration of nature but also their relational skills, enabling them to work through conflicts and build lasting connections.

A New Chapter for Shima Camp

This year, however, will be pivotal as Iruka House announces the temporary suspension of Shima Camp activities due to a shortage of leaders. After 20 successful years, the NPO faces challenges in maintaining programs as veteran leaders retire. Iruka House seeks individuals passionate about enriching children's experiences to join them in planning future activities.

With a strong commitment to ensuring children have places to learn and grow together, Iruka House envisions community cooperation to overcome these challenges. Over the years, they have provided various activities ranging from outdoor cooking and cultural events to social advocacy workshops, creating a support base for diverse individuals facing societal challenges.

As Iruka House aims to keep children’s connections with nature alive, their story reflects a commitment to nurturing the children of today for a better tomorrow. Interested volunteers can get involved with the Shima Camp initiative and contribute to the continuity of these enriching programs, ensuring every child has ample opportunity for adventure and discovery in nature.

For more information about Iruka House and how to support their mission, you can visit their website.