A joyful life in a traditional house—like camping every day.

— What brought you to Ota?

I had been working in Tokyo for years, living a life with almost no time off. When I quit my job, I decided to do something I could only do at that moment and travel to places I had always wanted to visit.

I’ve always liked Japan’s “edges.” I traveled along the coast of Hokkaido, visited Okinawa, and explored remote places while camping—places you need more than a month off to reach.

During that journey, Nachikatsuura Town caught my attention. It has rich nature, great food, and hot springs. As soon as I returned to Tokyo, I began researching relocation options.

Then I found a position with the Community-Reactivating Cooperator Squad. Since it included both a job and housing, I thought it was a great opportunity and decided to move here.

— Was there any gap between your expectations and reality after moving?

Not really. It didn’t feel like a major relocation—more like a casual move. I believe you can enjoy life anywhere depending on your mindset, so I didn’t feel anxious.

Once I arrived, nature was right next to me. Every day feels like an extension of camping. It’s been about two and a half years now, and I still enjoy each day.

I especially love the traditional house where I live. It has a wood-fired kitchen stove and an irori hearth. I enjoy living at my own pace, but sometimes visitors come, and we cook rice together over the fire. Even just cooking rice with firewood feels special and fun.

Finding fulfillment through work at “Ota no Sato.”

— What kind of work do you do there? What does a typical day look like?

I’m mainly involved in operating the facility—event planning, office work, flyer design, and more.

On Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings, I visit local elderly farmers who supply vegetables and collect their produce. Many of them no longer drive but still grow plenty of healthy vegetables.

I prepare the vegetables for sale, deliver large orders of boxed lunches, and assist when yoga or Pilates classes are held.

In the afternoon, I handle administrative tasks, create event flyers, and manage sales. It’s busy, but very enjoyable.

— When do you feel your work is rewarding?

People here express their appreciation very openly, and that makes me happy. I also enjoy learning new skills.

I had never made flyers or miso before, but once I tried, I found both to be surprisingly deep and interesting. Being able to challenge myself with things I had never experienced before gives me a strong sense of fulfillment.

Enjoying hands-on life and the warmth of the community.

— How do you spend your time outside work?

My days off are actually quite busy (laughs). Recently, I’ve been running a small nail salon at home and preparing firewood for the stove.

During warmer seasons, I work in a small garden and do some mowing. I also enjoy DIY—buying lumber and making shelves that fit perfectly in my house.

Since I live alone, I cook rice over the wood stove only once or twice a month and freeze meals for daily use. Life here is difficult without a car, and I probably walk less than I did in the city. But aside from that, I don’t feel any major inconvenience.

— What do you find most appealing about this area, and what are your future goals?

What I’m most proud of here is the people. There’s a warmth and closeness you don’t experience in Tokyo. When someone has a problem, neighbors quickly come together to help. It feels almost like having a second family.

Many student interns visit, and they’re always surprised by how open and welcoming the community is.

As for the future, I originally hoped to support myself through making miso. But since Ota no Sato is short-staffed, I plan to continue working here for about a year as a community support staff member after my current term ends.

I also want to try things that can only be done in a place like this. I already have a hunting license but haven’t had time to use it yet. There are so many things I want to do—I sometimes wish I could split into three people (laughs).

Ideally, I’d like to keep working at Ota no Sato while gradually expanding my miso-making, nail work, and other activities.

・Instagram: Ota no Sato Community Center