Seventh Dialogue: Inaka No Arukikata with Jake from More Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan
Introduction
Welcome to INAKA NO ARUKIKATA: The Art of Immersion in Rural Japan! In this edition, we feature Jake, the writer behind More Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan. Just as rural Japan faces challenges in attracting tourists away from its more famous cities, Jake’s journey highlights the hidden treasures of Japan’s countryside. His experiences reveal the deep connections one can form by traveling at a slower pace, often on foot, and immersing oneself in lesser-known regions.
Join us as we explore Jake’s unique insights, lessons, and reflections, inspiring those seeking authentic rural adventures away from the crowds.
Guest
Our guest for this session is Jake from More Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan.
Profile
Born in 1954, Jake grew up in Coventry, England. After working in the USA as a Youth Counsellor, he returned to the UK, earned a degree in Fine Art, and operated a signwriting business before becoming a professor of computer art. He then moved back to the USA, where he worked as a welder and spent five years as a sheepherder.
Jake met his wife Yoko during her visit to the US, and they married. So, in 2001, Jake moved to Kyoto to start their life in Japan. They lived in Kyoto for two years before relocating to rural Shimane. Jake bought and renovated an abandoned 60-year-old house, embracing a self-sufficient lifestyle there. His walks around the Iwami region sparked his fascination with local myths and the traditional Iwami Kagura.
Over time, Jake’s walking explorations extended to various pilgrimage routes across Japan, including the Shikoku 88 and Kumano Kodo. Now semi-retired, Jake enjoys walking along the Gonokawa River, exploring the Sea of Japan’s coastline, and living a peaceful life growing vegetables in rural Shimane.
Theme: Inaka No Arukikata with Jake from More Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan
Date and Time
October 5th, 2024, at 11:00 AM Japan Time
Online Event
Zoom (we will send the Zoom link to those who enroll)
Who Can Participate?
Anyone interested in exploring Japan’s rural areas, slow travel, and hidden gems.
Language
Jake will speak in English, and the moderator, Sameera, will provide a Japanese translation. This session is a wonderful opportunity for cross-cultural communication, allowing participants to enjoy a bilingual exchange.
Application
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScKQ62fJ-IRj3Zm4hJE2EbUa89GMaBg_qBSizx3RlUflvsf6Q/viewform
Please fill out the form before October 2nd.
Program
Opening: Introduction of ThoughINAKA and the event overview.
Guest Presentation: Jake will share his stories, travel tips, and insights into rural Japan and slow travel.
Q&A: Interactive session where participants can ask questions and exchange opinions.
Networking: Participants will have an opportunity to connect and share experiences.
Join us for an enriching conversation as Jake shares his unique journey through rural Japan. His love for slow travel and deep immersion in the countryside will inspire anyone looking to explore Japan’s hidden gems.
We look forward to welcoming you to this special edition of INAKA NO ARUKIKATA!
Follow Jake’s Journey:
- Blog: ojisanjake.com
- Photos: Flickr
- Facebook: Jake Ojisan
