Articles #03 community Journey through Yambaru:
Where Life Rejoices

Ikigai for the Local Community and Guests

In a quiet Yambaru village of just 26 residents, guests from Japan and abroad come to experience Okinawa’s untouched scenery. People come here to immerse themselves in the tranquil, maze-like village, where narrow Fukugi-lined paths keep cars at bay, and to interact with the local people.

At the heart of this interaction between visitors and locals is the "Yambaru Hotel Nammei Shinshitsu with NIPPONIA." Each guest group is assigned a "Sherpa," a staff member who shares the village’s rich history and may even introduce them to the private gardens of local residents they are close with. These interactions not only delight the visitors but also bring joy to the villagers.

“Locals often stop by our office,” says Risa Uehara, one of the Sherpas. “They sometimes bring us hundreds of homemade dumplings, Sata andagi (Okinawan donuts), Mijyun (bluestripe herrings), wild boar meat, or flowers from their gardens. When they see us guiding guests through the village, they sometimes invite us over for coffee from their verandas.”

Along with Uehara, two key figures in local residents welcoming guests to the village are Yoshihide and Sayuri. Yoshihide, a talented Sanshin (traditional Okinawan instrument) player who enjoys practicing English, often offers Sanshin lessons and chats with international visitors.

When Uehara lets him know guests are coming, Yoshihide sometimes plays the Sanshin from his veranda, creating a welcoming atmosphere. He and Sayuri also sweep the Fukugi-lined paths to prepare for their arrival. “It’s incredible to have people from all over the world visit our little village. We really enjoy it,” they say.

Some repeat visitors have grown so fond of Yoshihide that they even cook meals and invite him, Sayuri, and Uehara to join them. Occasionally, Yoshihide takes the initiative, saying, “Today’s guest is alone, so I’ll go and play the Sanshin to liven things up.”

“Our village is depopulated and remote, and traditional events are at risk of fading away, but Nammei Shinshitsu has brought new energy to us. Thanks to the Sherpas, we were able to hold our harvest festival performance this year,” Yoshihide and Sayuri say.

The relationship of trust between the Sherpas and locals has deepened over time through sharing daily experiences and events which can not be achieved overnight. This connection gives the elders Ikigai (a purpose of living), while offering guests heartwarming and authentic encounters.