Writer Profile

Daisuke Izawa
Other : President and CEO, Mori-no-Kuni Co., Ltd.Faculty of Business and Commerce Graduate1997 Faculty of Commerce

Daisuke Izawa
Other : President and CEO, Mori-no-Kuni Co., Ltd.Faculty of Business and Commerce Graduate1997 Faculty of Commerce
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 returned from Tokyo¡ªwhere I spent my student and corporate years¡ªI felt the charm of my hometown surrounded by rich nature all over again and began creating new content. Our experience programs, such as the "Downhill Tour" where participants cycle from the ski resort down to the sea, "Shower Climbing" (summer) up the mysterious 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 these, the three-day "Daisen Summer Camp" for elementary and junior high school students held multiple times during summer vacation (and the "Daisen Ski Camp" focused on ski and snowboard training during winter vacation) offers a modern-day "Stand by Me" experience for boys and girls. Much like the movie based on Stephen King's story, children meeting for the first time cooperate to pitch tents, cook their own meals, and take on various nature activities. In a complete turnaround from 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 become 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 ordeal they have faced in their lives. On the mountain trail through deep beech forests that feel like a labyrinth, with dripping sweat and heavy breathing, the same murmur is heard from the children every few minutes at first: "When are we going to reach the top?"
However, when they reach the 6th station, a panoramic view of the Sea of Japan spreads out below. From there, it is a continuous series of breathtaking views. Enveloped by the cold air blowing up from the sheer cliffs, it feels as if they are floating in the clouds. This is the moment when, even as children, they truly realize the harshness and splendor of nature. Climbing Mt. Daisen by encouraging their peers and themselves builds self-confidence, proving that "I can do it if I try." At the closing ceremony, there are various reactions¡ª"I want to climb it again!" or "I've had enough!"¡ªbut the memories etched into their minds for a lifetime are undoubtedly treasures. If you know any boys or girls who need some "homework for the soul," please send them to Mt. Daisen in Tottori Prefecture.
*Affiliations and titles are those at the time of publication.