Daisuke Izawa: Homework for the Heart at Mt. Daisen

2025/02/10

I operate an outdoor facility called "Mori-no-Kuni" located at the foot of Mt. Daisen in Daisen-Oki National Park, Tottori Prefecture, in the San'in region. Originally, it was a park facility primarily featuring one of the largest obstacle courses in Western Japan. However, when I moved back from Tokyo—where I spent my student and corporate years—I rediscovered the charm of my hometown surrounded by rich nature and began developing new content. Our experience programs, such as the "Downhill Tour" cycling from the ski resort to the sea, "Shower Climbing" (summer) up the secluded headwaters of Mt. Daisen, and "Snowshoeing" (winter) through snow-covered forests, are always filled with the smiles and cheers of participants. We also offer camping, a dog run, a skate park, and agricultural experiences, aiming to be a facility where everyone can enjoy Mt. Daisen throughout the four seasons.

Among these, the three-day "Daisen Summer Camp" for elementary and junior high school students held several times during summer vacation (and the "Daisen Ski Camp" focused on ski and snowboard training during winter break) is a modern-day "Stand by Me" experience for young boys and girls. Just like in the movie based on Stephen King's story, children meeting for the first time work together to pitch tents, cook their own meals, and take on various outdoor activities. In contrast to the fun daytime activities and campfires, the sound of sobbing can sometimes be heard from the tents at night as children miss their families and feel homesick.

The highlight of the camp is the climb up Mt. Daisen, the highest peak in the Chugoku region, which takes a full day. For the participants, it is likely the greatest challenge they have faced in their lives. On the mountain trails through deep, labyrinthine beech forests, with dripping sweat and heavy breathing, the same murmur can be heard from the children every few minutes at first: "When are we going to reach the top...?"

However, upon reaching the sixth station, a panoramic view of the Sea of Japan unfolds below. From there, it is a succession of breathtaking views. Wrapped in the cold air blowing up from the sheer cliffs, it feels as if one is floating in the clouds. This is the moment when, even as children, they truly experience the harshness and beauty of nature. Having completed the climb by encouraging their peers and themselves, the experience turns into self-confidence: "I can do it if I try." At the closing ceremony, there are various reactions—"I want to climb again!" or "I've had enough!"—but the memories etched into their minds for a lifetime are undoubtedly treasures. If you know any boys or girls who might need some "homework for the heart," please send them to Mt. Daisen in Tottori Prefecture.

*Affiliations and titles are as of the time of publication.