Ando Cafe – Scenic café at the mountain base

One of the main reasons I host leadership retreats here? The food. Fresh, flavorful, and unforgettable—with a view of Tanigawa mountain that makes every bite even better. Get directions →(https://maps.app.goo.gl/pccXnB4EFYbWTm5g9)

Roba Cafe – Old house café with wood-fired pizza

Delicious wood-fired pizza served in a beautifully renovated minka (traditional Japanese home). Just a short walk from my house, and always a treat. Get directions →(https://maps.app.goo.gl/o7gmd4oKx67Nm8A58)

Octone Brewery– Craft beer brewed with local love

A craft beer gem in Minakami. The IPAs are top-tier, and their Granny Smith apple cider is a local legend. Brewed with care by Yasu and Miwa. Get directions →(https://maps.app.goo.gl/89Mvud1Ne94KNmBx8)

Yamaji – Japanese lunch in a log cabin

Step inside one of the most unique log homes in Japan and enjoy hearty Japanese “soul food” for lunch. Dinner leans more Italian and is usually for pension guests—but ask ahead and they may say yes. Get directions →(https://maps.app.goo.gl/YfYHzr3ho46DneZHA)

Tanigawa Pan – Sourdough that sells out early

Yes, there’s homemade sourdough bread in Minakami—and yes, it’s incredible. Come early or it might all be gone. Get directions →(https://maps.app.goo.gl/gksDAXHPwFfq4ae88)

Bake Sale – Amazing bagels and sweets

Bagels? Cinnamon rolls? Monkey bread? Masa has mastered the craft of baking, and his creations never disappoint. I recommend buying more than you think you’ll want. Get directions →_(https://maps.app.goo.gl/SwzyoUNLj6Vy3Dk66)

Why Minakami? | Leadership Retreats in Japan’s Mountains

Atmospheric mountain landscape background symbolizing reflection and transformation

The Land of

Mountains and Water

Just 62 minutes from Tokyo, Minakami is my home, and where
I host retreats, grow community projects, and reconnect to something essential.

My wish is that everyone can find a place that provides the same sense of home, belonging, and community that I have found in Minakami.

That wish is what drives the projects I’ve created here—initiatives rooted in care, collaboration, and the rhythms of this land.

Projects Rooted
in This Community

These are some of the ways that wish is taking shape through community-rooted projects born in Minakami, JAPAN

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Hand-drawn plant illustration symbolizing nature and quiet reflection

Minakami Haretoke
Stories

Creative events blending local art, seasonal food,

and dialogue designed to build shared vision

and community spirit in Minakami.

Learn More

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Inaka Business Stories

Honest interviews with rural entrepreneurs

in Minakami and beyond, offering insights

for anyone exploring business outside Japan’s cities.

Coming Soon

Minakami Relocation Support

If you, your family, or your business are

considering relocating to Minakami, I’d love to

support you as a partner in that move!

Free Consultation

Monday
Adventures

A great way to experience Minakami for the

first time and spend a day adventuring with me.

It’s free and open to all, regardless of experience.

Book Now

Motorcycle
Tours

If you love motorcycles, you will love riding

in Japan! We'll create the tour of a

lifetime, exploring breathtaking spots together.

Free Consultation

Leader standing in nature, reflecting on personal growth and direction

Why Here?

An introduction to the land that changed my life.

Most people associate rural Japan (inaka) with declining population, but my experience over the last eight years is that it is so much more. Minakami is a place where the community is open and generous, and the closeness to wild nature brings out a unique combination of humility and innovation. We are regularly seeing new and interesting small businesses open up here, as well as investment from major developers. Whether you are coming here for a visit, or reconsidering relocating your business or family here, I'd love to be a partner with you in experiencing the depth and potential of this place.