Daisuke Izawa: Homework for the Heart in Mt. Daisen

I operate an outdoor facility called "Mori no Kuni" (Forest Kingdom) 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 returned from Tokyo—where I spent my student and early professional 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 hidden headwaters of Mt. Daisen, and "Snowshoeing" (winter) through forests blanketed in silver, are always filled with the smiles and cheers of participants. We aim to be a facility where everyone can enjoy the seasonal beauty of Mt. Daisen through camping, a dog run, a skate park, and agricultural experiences.

Among our offerings, the three-day "Daisen Summer Camp" for elementary and junior high school students (and the "Daisen Ski Camp" in winter focusing on skiing and snowboarding) provides a modern-day "Stand by Me" experience for young boys and girls. Much like 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 challenges. 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 full-day climb of Mt. Daisen, the highest peak in the Chugoku region. For the participants, this is likely the greatest ordeal they have faced in their lives. On the mountain trail through deep, labyrinthine beech forests, amidst dripping sweat and heavy breathing, the same murmur can be heard from the children every few minutes: "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 continuous series of breathtaking views. Enveloped by the cold air blowing up from the sheer cliffs, one feels as if they are floating among the clouds. This is the moment when, even as children, they truly experience the harshness and splendor of nature. Completing the climb by encouraging their peers and themselves builds self-confidence, teaching them that "I can do it if I try." At the closing ceremony, reflections vary from "I want to climb it again!" to "I've had enough!" but these memories, surely etched into their minds for a lifetime, are undoubtedly treasures. If you know any young boys or girls in need of some "homework for the heart," please send them to Mt. Daisen in Tottori Prefecture.

*Affiliations and titles are those at the time of publication.