The cedar trees that are found on the mountainsides of Akita Prefecture, northern Japan, have long been prized for their timber. The slopes where they grow, in the basin of the Yoneshiro River, are considered as one of the 3 most beautiful forests in all Japan. The term "Akita Cedar" can only be used for the trees that have grown naturally in this area and are over 150 years old. Because of the harsh winter climate, these cedars develop slowly, and their timber has a beautiful grain and strength that is not found in cedars from other parts of Japan. The heartland of Akita cedars spans the area from Odate to Noshiro, in the prefecture. In this area, people have developed a culture that draws strongly on this timber, and have a deep appreciation for their natural environment.
John Kaizan Neptune is an American musician who plays the shakuhachi, a traditional Japanese musical instrument made of bamboo. John makes his own shakuhachi, using bamboo that he cuts himself. This is part of his philosophy of "coexistence with nature". On this episode of Journeys in Japan, John visits this area to explore the cedar forests, and meet the people whose lives and culture owe so much to the prosperity brought about by the Akita cedars.
Walking Tour of Akita Cedars in the Wild Visitors can join a tour to explore the forests of Akita Cedar, which are now quite scarce. Participants are taken to see the tallest Akita cedar tree, which is an estimated 280 years old and is so high that its top cannot be seen from ground level. In this place, it is hard not to feel the greatness of nature.
Kimimachi Kankou Guide no Kai (Futatsui-machi Kankou Kyokai) Address: 109-10 Nakajima Kotsunagi-aza, Futatsui-machi, Noshiro City, Akita Pref.
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