Eat The Cultural Landscape Forest
- Rural Life As A "on To Hoko" (gratitude And Service) -
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Eat the Cultural Landscape Forest
The "Taste the Cultural Landscape Forest" premium tour in Chizu Town, Tottori Prefecture, is an experience to touch the history of the forest and the wisdom of traditional forestry, sharpening all five senses to savor its richness. Sleeping in the forest, eating the forest, and serving the forest—this journey inherits the spirit of "On to Hoko" (gratitude and service) that once thrived in the post towns during the Sankin-kōtai (alternate attendance) system, passing it on to the future.
3-day tour From ¥350,000
Day 1 / 13:00–14:30
Forest Retreat: Sleeping in the Forest
Experience sleeping in the forest amidst the mystical woods and clear streams of the scenic Ashizu Valley, spending quiet time enveloped by nature. Immerse yourself in a full-body forest bath that stimulates all five senses: tour the valley, feeling the breath of the primeval forest, listening to the murmuring of transparent waters, the songs of wild birds, and the phytoncides released by the trees. Touch the pure streams and face your inner stillness – truly enjoy this retreat in nature.
Day 1 / 15:00–17:00
To know chizu: Discovering the History and Culture of Chizu-shuku
Enjoy the beautiful townscapes, culture, and history of Chizu-shuku, which flourished since the Edo period, and Itaihara Village, where thatched-roof buildings still remain. Spend time feeling the history of Chizu Town, a "beginning of the road" town where people and culture intersect, and new stories are born.
Day 2 / 09:00–11:00
Fieldwork: Learning from the Perspective of "Eating the Forest"
Journey into Chizu Forest with a forest guide. Spend quiet time rediscovering nature, enveloped in the feel of moss, dappled sunlight, and the scent of cedar. Listen to the guide's stories, and you'll learn that plants are ingredients and medicinal herbs, you'll be able to distinguish between different trees, and you'll feel the wonder of the forest. This fieldwork will serve as a prelude to a deeper gastronomic experience later.
Day 2 / 11:30–14:00
One-Day Forest Restaurant: Nature Gastronomy
A special "Eating the Forest" course menu created exclusively for this day. The menu, generously using seasonal ingredients nurtured by Tottori's rich nature, features gibier dishes infused with the aroma of trees, delicate sweets made with tree blossoms gathered from the forest, and more. A truly immersive culinary experience awaits, embodying the concept of "eating the forest" and appealing to all five senses.
Day2 / 14:30-16:00
Forestry Experience;Learning about Chizu's Forests and Industry
In the traditional forestry experience with Chizu Sugi (cedar), you'll not only "observe" the rich history and culture of Chizu Town but also take on the role of passing it on to the next generation, weaving Japan's traditions into the future. Through interaction with local forestry workers, learn about Chizu's ancient forest management and the history of its timber, enjoying an even deeper cultural experience of the region.
Day 3 / 10:00–12:00
Contributing to the Future of Forests: Experience Hoko (Service)
Through Restoration and Tree Planting
Participate in cultural property restoration and tree planting. Experience the spirit of hoko and leave a mark that will contribute to the region's future.
Day 3 / 12:30-14:00
Lunch at Mitaki-en
Conclude your journey at Mitaki-en, nestled in Chizu Town's abundant nature, where you'll enjoy satoyama cuisine featuring a wealth of local ingredients. Dishes made with pure water, seasonal wild vegetables, river fish, and ingredients nurtured by Chizu's nature will soothe your mind and body, allowing you to feel a connection with the forest through food.
