You can experience the agriculture, fishing, forestry, and country living of Akune in person. This is a special
program that offers experiences that are not to be missed, such as Bontan picking and sea urchin processing
workshops.
You'll also enjoy a lively cultural exchange with the local inhabitants. Perhaps you'll find something special
while experiencing nature?!
Bontan Picking and Workshop Experience
Over 230 years ago, a person from Akune helped rescue a drifting Chinese boat. As thanks for saving the boat, they were given a large fruit known as a "Bontan." This is a hands-on experience where you get to gather Akune's famous Bontan fruits. There is also a manufacturing workshop you can participate in.
Pottery Experience
Owned by Mr. and Mrs. Kurowarabe, who have won numerous awards including the prestigious Nitten Exhibition award, the "Warabe Kobotsu" is a place where you can enjoy making and painting pottery. They also run a shop next to the workshop where they sell their highly unique and original artwork.
Fish Processing Experience
In this workshop you'll be able to handle fish caught in Akune's coastal waters such as Aji, barracuda, and herring. You will use them to make items such as skewers, dried goods, and mirin-boshi. Anyone older than elementary school age may join, and you get to take the items you make home with you as souvenirs.
Sea Urchin Processing Experience
The fishermen who harvest and deliver sea urchins associate with local ladies to process them. The ladies will teach you the basics of how to cut a sea urchin in two and then collect its delicious meat. Even better, once your fun experience is over you'll get to taste-test your freshly harvested sea urchin.
Country Cooking Experience
In this experience you can enjoy making good old fashioned country cooking using wholesome local ingredients. Enjoy a culture exchange with the locals while you cook using fresh ingredients. Enjoy the flavors of country cooking in the healing atmosphere of "En-usagi no Sato"
Bamboo Shoot harvesting Experience
During the refreshing spring season you can take part in collecting bamboo shoots in a sunny bamboo grove. At first it might seem a little tough… but with some initiation from a pro you'll get the hang of it! Once you understand the trick to finding the shoots and then pulling them out with a hoe, you'll be addicted!
Akune Yuyu Experience Club
The Akune Yuyu Experience Club was established as an organization to accept educational travel and provide lodging for those interested in agriculture/forestry/marine work experiences. They dispatch information throughout the year about seasonal experiences and exchanges to promote the charms of Akune.
