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My Journey to Japan’s Countryside: A Story of Community and Cultural Preservation

Hi, I’m Kira, a 24-year-old world traveler living in the serene countryside of Kita Hiroshima, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. My life has been a vibrant tapestry of cultures, woven from my mixed heritage of 18 ethnicities, including Burmese, Polish, American, Icelandic, and Bengali. Born and raised in Tanzania, I later moved to Australia for a decade, then to the United States for six years, before embarking on a global adventure that brought me to over 40 countries. Today, I’m here to share how I ended up in rural Japan, what I’m doing, and why this place feels like home.

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A Global Journey to Japan

My path to Japan was anything but ordinary. After traveling to 18 countries on a working holiday visa, I sought authentic experiences through platforms like Workaway. I volunteered at a ryokan on an island off Nagasaki, worked at an ice cream shop in Kyoto, interned in Tokyo, and couch-surfed with friends across Japan. These experiences introduced me to the heart of Japanese culture, but it was an invitation from someone I met online that brought me to Kita Hiroshima in August 2024. Tasked with caring for koi fish and cats, I found myself captivated by the community and the untouched beauty of this rural region.

Kita Hiroshima stood out for its pristine traditions and vibrant sense of community. The history of Hiroshima, marked by tragedy yet rebuilt as a pillar of peace, deeply moved me. Living in the Chugoku region, I’ve immersed myself in a culture that feels like a Studio Ghibli film—lush, authentic, and brimming with human connection. Joining a 3,500-year-old Kagura dance team was a turning point; it not only enriched my life but also forged familial bonds with my community.

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Building a Business for Rural Revitalization

Inspired by the untouched essence of Japan’s countryside, I launched a rural revitalization and cultural preservation business. My mission is to share the beauty of Kita Hiroshima with the world while preserving its traditions. Through my business, I offer immersive programs, including traditional Japanese sports, events, and overnight stays at unique local accommodations. From staying at an astronomy park with an energetic ojichan to experiencing the lifecycle of wood with an intergenerational woodcutter, these offerings provide travelers with authentic, meaningful connections.

Additionally, I provide consultations for those seeking to navigate Japan off the beaten path. Drawing from my global travels and experiences, I help young dreamers and adventurers craft their own authentic journeys. My business also serves as a model for revitalizing rural communities across Japan. By the end of this year, I aim to establish a fully operational community center and scale my efforts to support other regions. My website, Kiraki, will become a resource for travelers seeking genuine countryside experiences, simplifying logistics and fostering connections.

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Navigating Challenges and Building Connections

Living in rural Japan comes with challenges, especially as a non-fluent Japanese speaker. Yet, my broken Japanese and genuine passion have helped me build relationships. From presenting a community survey to the mayor to sharing my business model, I’ve relied on authenticity and support from locals to communicate my mission. My involvement in Kagura and my identity as a master’s degree student and world traveler have helped people understand my intentions.

One challenge is the isolation of rural life, particularly connecting with peers my age. However, through social media and my sustainable tourism initiatives, I’ve met incredible people from around the world who visit Kita Hiroshima. These interactions have sparked true cultural exchange—whether it’s a seven-foot-tall Dutch visitor impressing local kids or a Latvian student sharing samurai history. My community has embraced these guests, learning about the world while sharing their own traditions.

Why Japan’s Countryside?

What I love most about Japan is its dedication to preserving beauty and community. From meticulous architecture to the care put into food, Japan has taught me what true success means—living with intention and connection. The countryside offers space and time to pursue passions, from hobbies to cultural immersion. Unlike the bustling cities, Kita Hiroshima feels untouched by Western influence, preserving the essence of Japan’s ancient traditions and mythology.

A Lesson Learned

Starting this business has taught me to embrace risks and learn from mistakes. To anyone chasing their dreams, my advice is simple: start now. The universe conspires to help those who pursue their passions with love and authenticity. Thank you for joining me on this journey. Like, comment, and subscribe for more, and let’s preserve the beauty of Japan’s countryside together.

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