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TOKIGAWA
KOMAGURE
Issue 3Englishversion"IBUSHIGIN"
Mr. Mikio Machida from Machidaya Ryokan (Inn)appears as a panelist
at the seminar
Unveiling the vision for the future of Tokigawa Town

January 11, 2024 Issue No. 3
Tokigawa kimagure Tile Block Print Newspaper (inTokigawa period)
Publisher: Tokigawa PJ
ZIP: 355-0356, Saitama Prefecture, Hiki District
Tokigawa Town,Ohwaza Sekibori 127-1, GIT Building
Tel: 0493-66-0033 / Fax: 0493-66-0034
HP: http://tgkawaraban.chigensya.jp/
Title: Master Takamoto Kodama of Shoboji Temple
Illustration: "Yomiuri's Tile Sales"
Source: From Seiu Ito's "Edo and Tokyo: History of Customs andCustoms," Public Domain,
Note: This"kawaraban" is aimed at providing information and entertainment.
While we prioritize the accuracy of our articles, they may not be groundedin evidence like academic papers. If you come across any inaccuracies in
the content, please contact us via email or fax. Please understand that our
resources, including staff and budget, are limited, so it may take time torespond to your inquiry, or in some cases, we may be unable to do so.

On Friday, December 1, 2023, a panel discussion sponsored by the crowdfunding platform "IBUSHIGIN"
took place on the second floor of the Musashino Bank's main branch in Saitama City,Saitama
Prefecture. The event aimed to showcase the experiences of four entrepreneurs who achieved successthrough crowdfunding supported by Musashino Mirai Partners Co., Ltd., serving as a valuable reference for
local business owners in Saitama Prefecture.
The concept behind "IBUSHIGIN" is to have the entire Bugin (Musashino Bank) Group unite insupporting the fervent aspirations of businesses. Four distinguished individuals were invited as panelists,
including Hiroshi Tanaka, cultivating low-pesticide and chemical-free rice in Kawagoe City; Iori Saito,
practicing the sixth industry at a livestock farm in Hanyu City; Ryosuke Shimizu, aiming for zero eel waste
at an eel wholesaler in Saitama City; and Mikio Machida, planning to revitalize Tokigawa Town in Hiki
District through the revival of the 800-year-old Jiko tea.
In "Tokigawa Whimsical Kawaraban No. 3," after briefly introducing three individuals engaged in new
ventures in rice, livestock, and eel, Mr. Machida presented a detailed report on a grand project to carve out
the future of Tokigawa Town. This initiative is already underway.

Part 1 — Three Ventures Centered on the Theme of "Respect for Life"●"Nanohana Rice": Growing rice withrapeseed flowers, aiming for reduced
pesticides and no chemical fertilizers by
Hiroshi Tanaka"Nanohana Rice," "Luncheon Meat," and "Eel Snack."
The three individuals announced as successful
crowdfunding entrepreneurs are all producers andwholesalers of the rice, pork, and eel that we rely on as partof our daily diet. What unites these businesses is a common
commitment to "respect for life." The project's theme
revolves around savoring and minimizing waste in the life
we consume, garnering support from backers.

Firstly, let's delve into Mr. Tanaka's rice.
Grown without pesticides, with reduced pesticide
usage, and without chemical fertilizers, it is aptly named"Nanohana Rice." Quite literally, it is rice cultivated using
rapeseed flowers as fertilizer. By incorporating rapeseed
into rice fields, it is possible to cultivate rice withoutchemical fertilizers and with fewer pesticides. Rapeseedflowers release aerobic gas as they decompose, and thisgas has a weed-killing effect, eliminating the need forherbicides. As an aside, I once heard a story from someone
cultivating three rice fields, saying, "Throw three herbicides
into a rice field, and no grass will grow. Rice cultivation isthat simple."
While the extent of herbicide use in the rice wecommonly consume is unknown, adopting Mr. Tanaka's
method could alleviate the labor-intensive task of weeding
and undoubtedly enhance the quality of rice.
Interestingly, Mr. Tanaka was born into a farming familywith a lineage dating back to the Meiji era, yet he chose not
to inherit the family business. Instead, he pursued a careerat the fire department. Both his father and grandfather
refrained from continuing the farming tradition, resulting in
its interruption with his grandfather's generation.
Feeling an irrepressible desire to engage in agriculture
in his 30s, Mr. Tanaka retired from the fire department
and established "Tomozy's Farm," a dedicated rice farm,in April 2020. His application for crowdfunding stemmed

from the desire to expand this innovative method. With animpressive completion rate of 128%, the heartfelt feedback
from those who purchased his product served as significant
encouragement.
Currently operating as a sole proprietor, Mr. Tanaka
aspires to eventually incorporate his venture, broaden
the production method for rapeseed rice, and has alreadyinitiated collaborations with other plant varieties beyond
rapeseed.

●

Iori Saito: Transitioning from Pig
Farming to the Sixth Industry, Managing
Pig Processing and Sales

In Hanyu City, pig farmer Iori Saito, affectionately calling
the raised pigs "buta-chan," expresses an understandingof the emotional state of these animals. Maintaining acommitment to cleanliness, the barns are meticulously
cleaned daily, and the feed consists of a protein-focused
mixture, incorporating discarded confectionery scraps
and ramen noodle remnants. Pig manure is repurposed ascompost by a fellow farmer in Hanyu City, aligning withthe core principle of utilizing life without wastefulness. A
family-run business, it boasts a 40-year track record.

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The application of a sixthorder industry involves
planning and overseeing theprocessing and sales of thepigs raised. The inauguralproduct, "Domestic Pork
Luncheon Meat," exemplifies
their venture into the sixth
industry. This term refers toa business model integrating
primary industries like
agriculture, forestry, andfisheries, secondary industries
such as manufacturing, and tertiary industries like retail.
Diversifying into poultry farming, the introduction of
cage-free chicken rearing aims to create a stress-freeenvironment, fostering natural behavior and, consequently,
a distinct flavor in the eggs. Exploring innovative uses
for cage-free eggs in the sixth industry's product lineup is
currently underway.

●

light snack has significantly reduced overall
waste. Handling 750 tons of eel annually,
Mr. Shimizu emphasizes the company's
responsibility to maximize the use of each
eel's life.

To mitigate waste from discarded eel parts like the headand bones during cooking, they pioneered the freezedrying processing method. Transforming eel waste into a

Responsibly Utilizing the Entire Eel:
Ryosuke Shimizu's Freeze-Dried "EelSnack""Eel Snack" represents a freeze-dried eel snack developedby the well-established river fish wholesaler "Koihei" in
Saitama City.

The crowdfunding campaign surpassed its
target within three days, eliciting widespread
support for the concept of repurposing
discarded eel into snacks. Media coverage
acted as a catalyst for subsequent interviews,
generating considerable interest. Contrary to
the common perception that crowdfunding
primarily involves newly established businesses, "Koihei,"with its 126-year legacy dating back to 1897 (Meiji 30),
demonstrates how even traditional establishments leverage
crowdfunding for novel
initiatives. The campaign
garnered support not only
from Saitama but also
from Kansai and Kyushu,
bolstering confidence inthe exceptional qualityof their "eel snack"products. The positive
response has elevatedemployee morale andheightened awarenesswithin the company.

Part 2 --- "Tea Culture" Paving the Future of Tokigawa Town●

Motivated by the desire to convey thehistory of Tokigawa Town rather thanselling products, Mikio Machida revives
the culture of Jiko tea after 800 years.

Now, the report from Mikio Machida, the proprietor
of Machida Ryokan, who took the stage with the threepanelists mentioned earlier, was quite unconventional.
After all, he didn't apply for crowdfunding with his
idea, but at the recommendation of the Saitama Prefectural
Tourism Division, and he only learned after applying that
he had to send rewards to supporters. That's how he foundout. So, he hastily devised a plan to commercialize Jiko tea.
It was like a shoestring operation.
This is because the purpose of applying for crowdfunding
was not to sell products but to make people aware of
the history of Tokigawa Town. The starting point was
fundamentally different. Let's capture Mr. Machida's
passionate narrative.

●

Tokigawa Town: The Birthplace of Tea in
Eastern Japan

In my case, my underlying motivation was to pass on thehistory of the town.
That's the most significant motivation. Crowdfunding
emerged as one of the methods for achieving this.Tokigawa
Town is home to Ryozen-in (Rinzai sect), the first Zen

temple in the Kanto region, founded in the Kamakura
period(14th century) by Eicho Zenji, who received animperial order from Retired Emperor Gotoba.Eisho Zen
Master is a disciple of Eisai, who wrote the first book on
tea in Japan, "Kissa Yojoki," in 1211.
This way, the history of tea in eastern Japan spreads fromthe founder of Japanese tea, "Eisai" → Eisho, a disciple of
Eisai (Jikocha) → Eisho's disciple, "Enni" (the founder of
Shizuoka tea). It was transmitted.
In the Muromachi period(15th~16th century), as
mentioned in the book "Travel Inn Questions andAnswers," there is a description of the famous tea "Jikocha"
in Musashi Province, and it is inferred that tea was widely
cultivated in the surrounding areas of Tokigawa Town, suchas Ogawa-cho, Arashiyama-cho, Higashi-Matsuyama City,
Ogose-cho, and Yokoze-cho.
In the Edo period, this tea culture flourished in the

Sayama Hills and became "Sayama Tea."
I had a strong desire to preserve the history of tea, thebirthplace of tea in eastern Japan.
Although there were suggestions to give a lecture, I tend
to forget such things as soon as I hear them. I wanted toengage people using all five senses and involve them invarious activities. That's how I came up with the idea of a"tea garden."In the town's mountain forests, tea plants brought byenvoys to Tang China 800 years ago grow like wild trees.
Many tea trees that haven't been crossbred with local
species remain in their original state. They grow naturally.
Using them, we created a tea garden where children could
plant seedlings, weed, harvest tea, and, of course, brew anddrink it. We wanted to engage in activities that make people
familiar with tea.

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But for that, funds are necessary, and many people needto cooperate. When I sought advice from the Saitama
Prefectural Office, they suggested submitting the plan on
paper. I quickly compiled my thoughts into 50 PowerPoint
slides and submitted them. After that, the prefectural officeadvised us to apply for Musashino Bank's crowdfunding.
So, in my case, it wasn't the product that came first; it was
my thoughts.
When we sought supporters through crowdfunding, about
50 people quickly gathered. People from Tokigawa Town,
those from outside the town, and even those I didn't know
well came together. As a token of appreciation, we wereable to create something called "Jikocha."

where the tea trees grew, we successfully generated around
120 saplings. Our goal for the next year is to increase thisnumber to 1000, offering numerous possibilities.
Tokigawa Town, with a high aging population,possesses numerous uncultivated mountainous areas left
in neglect. Simultaneously, there's an influx of young
individuals moving to Tokigawa Town aspiring to engage
in agriculture. We've partnered with young farming
enthusiasts, providing them with untended mountainous
terrain to cultivate tea organically, without pesticides●

Reviving a Town by Utilizing Abandoned
Mountainous Land

The collaboration of supporters we encountered throughcrowdfunding has paved the way for our ongoing initiatives.
Currently, we focus on two main endeavors: expanding the
population of ancient medieval tea plants and nurturing tea
into a distinctive product of Saitama.
Concerning the first objective, propagating ancient tea
plants from the Middle Ages isn't feasible through seedsowing. Seeds inevitably result in the mingling of male andfemale parts, leading to an altered outcome. To multiply
them, we experimented with cutting branches from old tea
trees to create saplings. With the landowner's permission

or fertilizers. The vision is to produce organic Jiko tea,
contributing to a new industry in Tokigawa Town.

●

Ideas Emerging from the Crisis in Saitama
Prefecture's Tea Culture

Despite its lesser-known status, Sayama tea in Saitama
Prefecture boasts a rich history and exceptionally hightea manufacturing expertise on a national scale. Currently
overshadowed by tea production leaders like Kagoshima
and Shizuoka, Sayama tea represents a mere 1/22nd of thenational output. This discrepancy is attributed to Saitama
Prefecture's geographical location.
I, as an amateur, proposed a unique concept in response

Further diversification includes the utilization of tea juice,a byproduct rich in catechins and nutrients. This waste
liquid sparks creative ideas like producing juices or evenbeer. With an increasing number of supporters providing
valuable advice, we've achieved success in various aspects,
from transparent packaging innovations to the creation of
trademarked teas such as " Jiko Black Tea."

Inbound Business Monitor Tour inJanuary 2024

Contemplating the possibility of a town-wide initiative,
we applied to the Japan Tourism Agency for an inboundproject. Successful approval led us to plan a monitor tour inJanuary 2024. Collaborating with the Saitama Prefectural
Tourism Division, local tourism associations, and JTB, we
are actively developing experiential activities for foreign
tourists within tea gardens.
The proposed activities range from hands-on tea garden
work and meditation at a Rinzai sect temple to the authentic
preparation of matcha tea and enjoying desserts or dishes
infused with tea. Experience-based activities appealing to
all five senses leave a lasting impact, and we are eager toturn these ideas into reality.
This developmental approach aims to bring about positivechange in Tokigawa Town. Envisioning a lively town that
attracts attention from around the world, we believe thatas foreign visitors share their experiences on social media
platforms, Tokigawa Town will gain global recognition.
(Authored by: Editorial Department)

advertising through "IBUSHIGIN."
Venturing into Novelty/ Test Sales: Employ ourservices during the development of new products orservices, or when embarking on fresh challenges within
the BtoC realm.
Musashino Bank Group: We collaborate withMusashino Bank and external entities, leveraging our
network influence to support businesses.

Three Distinctive Featuresof IBUSHIGIN
The insights below have been consolidated based on
the Musashino Bank's website (Authored by: Editorial
Department).
1. Appeal to Supporters
Compelling Returns: Contributing to our projects
offers not only attractive returns but also exclusive
unreleased rewards.
Project-driven Connections: By participating in theform of "support," individuals can engage in sociallymeaningful projects, collaborating with substantial
projects that would typically remain out of reach.
Musashino Bank Group: Unique treasures andcaptivating specialty products exclusive to the Musashino
Bank Group await exploration.

to the predicament. Introducing "tea paste," a solution to thechallenges posed by powdered tea in culinary applications.
Unlike powdered tea prone to clumping or marbling, thepaste ensures easy and elegant blending. Whether used inbread-making, added to dried noodles, or incorporated into
fruit and dessert recipes, the possibilities are extensive.

●

We also made youkan(japanese sweets) filled with tea
and were able to send the tea and yokan as return gifts toour supporters.
However, in the first shipment, we made a mistake ofpacking the heavy youkan and light tea together in a box,
causing the tea and youkan to mix and look messy. After
receiving feedback, we redesigned the box with the adviceof a packaging specialist and sent it again.

（)

2. Enticements for Sellers
Comprehensive Planning Support: Our team collaborates
with you, providing support from project inception to site
publication.
Strategic Fan Base Expansion: Diverging fromconventional mail-order methods, expressing genuine
thoughts and enthusiasm in your products can foster thegrowth of your dedicated fan base.
Advertising (Promotional) Assistance: In times ofadvertising uncertainty, we offer support in promoting yourbrand, allowing you to seamlessly conduct both sales and3. Considerations for Potential Listings
A 20% (excluding tax) fee is applicable to the collectedamount.
Eligible genres encompass agriculture, forestry andfishery products, food-related items, goods-related
products, regional revitalization initiatives, and various
others.
Criteria for qualified entities (products) include:
Businesses engaged with Musashino Bank, enterprises
aspiring to uplift Saitama Prefecture, businesses
intertwined with Saitama Prefecture-related products,
and Businesses contributing to SDGs. Embracing newchallenges characterizes a proactive business operator.

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Career Women of Tokigawa Town
82-year-old Shigeko Yoshida and 74-year-old Yoshie Tanaka
In Tokigawa Town, two trailblazing career womencontinue to shine in their active roles—82-year-old Shigeko
Yoshida, proprietor of the tsukudani (food boiled in soy
sauce)shop "Yoshida Shoten" and 74-year-old Yoshie
Tanaka, the lady of "Tokian." Despite their ages suggesting
retirement, these two women remain robustly engaged inphysically demanding work.
At "Fureai no Sato (Community Hall)Tamagawa,"
Shigeko Yoshida showcases an array of tsukudani on
Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Offerings include clams,
freshwater clams, and character brushes—12 varieties that
customers can freely mix. Their presence extends beyond
Tokigawa Town, participating in festivals at locations suchas Sugamo Jizo Temple and Takahata Fudo Temple inTokyo. Notably, brown sugar distinguishes their products.
Meticulously sourcing fresh batches from Okinawa, they
break them apart at home and pack them into bags. Inspiredby overcoming a severe illness through the benefits ofbrown sugar, Shigeko aims to spread awareness of its
immune-boosting properties.
Yoshie Tanaka, proprietress of Tokian shop, is renowned
for managing a bustling establishment where she diligently
carries heavy trays of tempura soba and other dishes
to customer seats. Her standing workday begins in themorning and continues until night. Establishing Tokian at
the age of 43, she borrowed money to construct the shop on
adjacent land, delved into intensive studies, and secured achef's license.
Intrigued by the source of their resilience, we interviewed
both women to delve into their stories.

Shigeko Yoshida, at 50, discovered
she had no pancreas! A catalyst forentrepreneurship
Clad in a traditional Japanese kappogi(Japanese apron)
and a black baseball cap, Shigeko maintains a poised
posture—her signature style. However, there's a significant
twist: she lacks a pancreas. Despite being a frail child withno pancreas, she has persevered to the age of 82.
"I've been frail since childhood. The sixth of eightsiblings, I was the weak one. Even after consulting
doctors, the reasons remained unclear. I couldn't eat much;consuming food made me nauseous. At 20, my waist
measured around 30cm. Concerned about my future, myparents set aside assets, mainly land."The revelation about her weak constitution came at theage of 50. Hospitalized due to health issues, a CT scan
uncovered the absence of a pancreas. The doctor marveled,"You've lived remarkably well in this condition—yourpancreas had dissolved away."
She met her current husband in her 40s, initially refusing
marriage due to infertility and limited domestic abilities.
Eventually, they married, and she assisted in managing her
husband's factory. During a hospitalization prompted byillness, the absence of her pancreas came to light.
This revelation became a turning point, prompting
a dietary transformation. Embracing brown sugar andeliminating not only spicy seasonings but also soy sauce,
she weathered her husband even throwing an electric
kettle due to the initially unpalatable meals. Having
survived, the idea emerged to establish a tsukudani shop,
sourcing quality products nationwide to promote better
health for many.
In this endeavor, numerous people engage inconversations. It's enjoyable. "This is from me," they say,generously including extras.
"I just wish everyone good health. Money is a secondary
concern."
Despite common beliefs suggesting excess salt intsukudani, observing 82-year-old Shigeko diligently seatedoutside without heating or cooling challenges the simplicity
of human health. In reality, individuals, such as architect
Tadao Ando at 82, continue working without a pancreas. It
urges us to question conventional wisdom.
"Fureai no Sato Tamagawa"4359-2 Tamagawa, Tokigawa Town, Hiki District,
Saitama Prefecture
Phone: 0493-65-1171

At 43, Yoshie Tanaka embarked
on entrepreneurship with
"Tokian"shopLife unfolds from one's forties, or so it seems in the caseof Yoshie Tanaka, the proprietor of "Tokian"shop who
ventured into entrepreneurship at the age of 43. The setting
is Nishihira—an obscure location, far removed from main
roads and train stations, enveloped by mountainous terrain.
One might question the rationale behind establishing a shop
in such a secluded place.
"At the time, I was employed at the Joinery Hall, andthere was a severe lack of eateries in the vicinity. While
there are several now, back then, there was nothing. WhenI craved something for lunch, there was nothing available.
So, I thought, why not create it myself?"
This was the driving motivation. The Joinery Hall, amunicipal entity, specializes in selling locally craftedjoinery.
"Opening a shop in a place like this won't attract
anyone," was the prevailing sentiment. Most people
opposed the idea, to the extent that there were complaints
heard on the bus her son took to high school, with assertionsof it being "foolish." That was 32 years ago.
The proprietress dedicated herself to rigorous studies,acquiring a chef's license, and took on debt to constructa shop adjacent to her residence. The establishment,

fashioned as an authentic Japanese dwelling, featured
walls adorned in muted hues to exude the ambiance of an
antiquated farmhouse. It initially commenced as an udon
noodles eatery.
"Remarkably, from the day of our opening, numerous
customers started coming in."
These patrons weren't tourists but local residents.
Despite no advertising, a steady influx of customers
ensued. The shop remained open until around 8 p.m., evenaccommodating requests for coffee as an evening beverage.
However, about a decade later, a crisis loomed. A rivaludon restaurant emerged in close proximity, resulting ina sudden decline in customers. The proprietress recalls,"There were days when only three people showed up."
After enduring this for about a year, she devised a new
strategy—transitioning to soba noodles. This involved
making soba from 100% whole grain buckwheat flourand serving it with seasonal vegetable tempura. The term"seasonal vegetables" took a unique twist, featuring items
such as imogara (Japanese thorns), zuiki (chickpeas), kabu
(turnips), kaki (oysters), kogomi (ostrich fern), warabi(bracken), and yamaudo (mountain udon). Utilizing produce
from their owned mountains and pesticide-free vegetables,
the preparation methods were distinctive, including splitting
persimmons, adding wasabi, and unique frying techniques,
even incorporating flowers. The uniqueness garnered praiseon social media, propelling the restaurant into the limelightwith long queues.
Ironically, the current challenge revolves around thesequeues. When the restaurant reaches full capacity, due to its
petite size, customers may find themselves waiting outside.
Addressing this issue, the proprietress remarked, "I always
feel very saddened.""In warmer weather, we set up large garden umbrellas forshade and offer cold beverages. Previously, we provided
these outside, but due to the impact of the coronavirus, we
had no choice but to move them indoors. During colder
seasons, we provide blankets. At times, after customers
have finished their meals, we approach them for a chat. We
also expedite orders for young children. As a three-person
operation, we do our utmost, but there are limitations."“Tokian”
756-4 Nishihira, Tokigawa Town, Hiki District,
Saitama Prefecture
Phone: 0493-67-0517(Written by & ©: Midori Nishida)

T ● O ● K ● I ● G ●A ● W ● A ● K ● I ● M ● A ● G ● U ● R ● E（)Life in Ohno is grounded in the culture of " behavior" and "mutual assistance."
When speaking of the Ohno district in Tokigawa Town, Hiki District, Saitama Prefecture, it's known for
its mountainous terrain, with a road stretching from Mt. Dodaira to Higashichichibu Village. Besides facing adeclining population, the area is also experiencing significant aging. Presently, there are 327 residents, with 176
aged 65 or older (according to the 2020 census), constituting over half of the population. Single-person households
are predominant. Despite this, even the local bus service has been halted.
As one ventures past Nishidaira into Ohno, the roads progressively narrow, surrounded by forests, evoking
the ambiance of secluded mountain valleys. While it may sound idyllic, the reality is undeniably inconvenient.
How do the residents of Ono cope with such conditions? In November, amidst the stunning autumn foliage, we
undertook a journey to Ono district, joining the Nishinosawa Waterworks Association in tank cleaning andhitching a ride on a mobile food truck from Seven-Eleven (Tanaka store) to document life in the area. Whatbecame evident was a resilient "culture of generosity" and the vigor of "mutual aid and self-reliance."●

The Tea-Making Person"When tomorrow comes, there's a tank cleaning event in
Ono. How about going to cover it?"Such an email arrived from an acquaintance on thenight of Saturday, November 18th. It suggested visiting on
Sunday, the 19th, as the local community would gather fortank cleaning. A tank, in this context, refers to a filtration
tank, a facility that filters water drawn from the mountains.
In Ohno, around 50 households utilize water drawn fromthe mountains. Upon request, water can be drawn to any
household, with an annual cost of ¥18,200. Comparatively,
the Waterworks Bureau charges around ¥2,500 per month,approximately ¥30,000 annually (varies by household),making it a notably economical choice. The operations areoverseen by the Nishinosawa Waterworks Association.
Mr. K, a devoted user of this mountain-sourced water,
expresses, "The water we drink is from the mountains. It
makes delicious tea."
Mr. K is a tea-making maestro. At his workplace inOhno, a wood stove is consistently kindled, an iron kettle
bubbles, and he generously treats visiting friends and theircompanions to tea. I, too, have been treated on numerous
occasions. The tea is sweet, and Mr. K promptly re-infuses
it if it cools, always ensuring the optimal temperature.

Ono, the warmth of the wood stove prompted a greeting. A
seemingly abrupt introduction led to extended conversations
and subsequent visits with additional companions.
Mr. K engages in physically demanding tasks like felling
trees and crafting firewood in the mountains, rendering him
robust. He identifies as a versatile handyman, willingly
taking on tasks within his capabilities.
The sight of this sturdy man brewing tea is peculiar yet
intriguing, especially with his consistent attention to detail,discarding used tea leaves and re-brewing. The motivation
behind making tea remains an enigma.
Mr. K is no saint. He's an ordinary gentleman, albeit
with some eccentricities: two crows visit, seeking food, andupon breaking a rice cracker on a flat stone, they descend to
consume it. Nevertheless, he takes the time to prepare tea.
Examining this act through an economic lens, it aligns
with the concept of a "pure gift."
This diversion allows us to scrutinize "the person who
makes tea" from an economic standpoint.

Various confections grace the small table. During winter,a small pot warms cans of amazake(sweet sake), andmeticulously sharpened knives peel apples bought in bulk
from Nagano Prefecture's cardboard boxes.
As I savor the tea and treats, an inexplicable sense ofwonder envelops me. Despite not being a local of Ono, nor
a resident of Tokigawa Town, and lacking any particularcloseness, Mr. K graciously permits me to sit by thewood stove and prepares tea. Why does he make tea andencourage indulgence in sweets?
Many individuals frequent Mr. K's wood stove for tea.
"Everyone's a friend. Strangers don't come," asserts Mr. K.
Nonetheless, even if a friend brings along an acquaintance,
Mr. K doesn't decline. Initially, I joined my friend, andthe four of us invaded. Though my friend met Mr. K justonce, during a casual encounter as a tourist driving around●

Shogunate who raised the 8th Shogun Yoshimasa Ashikaga,
these teachings emphasized returning something equivalent
when receiving from others—a notion aligned with theconcept of equivalent exchange.
While the prevalence of year-end and mid-year gifts may
have diminished, this reciprocal philosophy has functioned
as a societal norm in Japan for over 500 years. Our daily
act of purchasing goods by paying money is also a formof "equivalent exchange," with the price of commodities
determined by factors like material costs, labor costs, anddistribution expenses. Money, defined as a promise note toexchange for goods of certain values, circulates under thisconvention.
Religious anthropologist Shinichi Nakazawa encapsulates
the principles of "equivalent exchange" into three points in
his work "Logos of Love and Economy" (Kodansha, 2003).
To summarize:"The Tea Maker" and the Concept of"Pure Gift"

Modern society operates at its core around economics,
with relationships among individuals often intertwined withfinancial transactions. In essence, these relationships can be
categorized into three methods: (1) exchange, (2) gift, and(3) pure gift.

1.A product is an object devoid of the creator's
personality or emotions.
2. Items of approximately equal value are exchanged.
3. The value of items must be calculable.
The notion of "gifts" is summarized into three elements:

The concepts of "exchange" and "gift" arestraightforward, representing a form of "equivalentexchange." For instance, one receives a salary ascompensation for labor, or reciprocates with gifts like yearend or mid-year presents for favors received. Even during
events such as funerals, weddings, or hospitalizations,financial transactions occur in the form of condolences orcongratulations. This falls under the umbrella of mutual aid
and equivalent exchange.

1. Gifts are not mere objects; they serve as a medium
through which something personal appears to move
between individuals.
2. To express feelings of mutual trust, an appropriate
amount of time should pass before reciprocation(immediate reciprocation damages the trust
relationship).
3. Uncertain and indeterminable values move throughobjects, and the delicate exclusion of the idea of
equivalent exchange allows "gifting" to become
possible.

Japan has a rich tradition of gift-giving, with historical
records dating back to the Muromachi period(14th~16th
century ), such as the lessons of Ise Sadachika. Authored by
Sadachika Ise (1417-1473), an official of the Muromachi

In essence, a "gift" involves an exchange of equivalentvalue, but it only becomes realized by concealing(excluding) this fact. A gift isn't detached from the giver's

（)T ● O ● K ● I ● G ●A ● W ● A ● K ● I ● M ● A ● G ● U ● R ● E

personality; instead, it carries the giver's personal touch.
In simpler terms, it's not just an object; it's imbued withthought.
However, in the case of "pure gift" ( ③ ), the conceptof equivalent exchange is entirely absent. Moreover,the giver's personality doesn't permeate the gift; it lacks
heartfelt sentiment. It's indeed a peculiar phenomenon.
The "mystery" experienced while sipping Mr. K's tea
stems from its deviation from the principle of equivalentexchange. This might explain the slight discomfort one
might feel. While experiencing a "gift" like this once or
twice is understandable, its repetition for everyone makes it
perplexing. This is because it falls into the realm of a "puregift."
A "pure gift" is a unilateral offering devoid of any
expectation for reciprocation. It is a gift without ulterior
motives. Does such a phenomenon truly exist? With Mr.
K's participation in the tank cleaning event, I visited him,combining it with an opportunity for an interview.

●

Tank Cleaning in Yokoza

Cleaning the tank is no small feat. The task involves
removing and washing all the fine gravel used for filtering
water flowing down from the mountains, an effort to purify
the mountain water. The gravel, heavy and abundant, isscooped up with a shovel, placed on a 4-meter conveyor
belt, transported to a washing area, scrubbed clean, andthen returned to the conveyor belt. This repetitive liftingand lowering of gravel is a task that, according to thetraining from the fire department's fire rescue task force, isa strenuous two-minute routine.
The tank cleaning is, in essence, a continuous process.
While it may appear light when observed, it's genuinely
challenging, as confirmed by Mr. K himself who remarked,"It's tough."Starting at 8 a.m. on holidays, the cleaning continues
throughout the morning. The compensation, to be frank, ismodest – it goes beyond mere volunteer work. The rationale
for keeping the annual maintenance costs down is attributed
to such mutual assistance. It reflects a shared sentiment ofwanting to maintain the cleanliness of their water.
Below, I documented the tank cleaning process throughan array of assembled photos (see bottom photo).

●"Mr. K is a Generous Host"

After completing the tank cleaning, I sought theopportunity to speak with Mr. K. The chosen location was acafé tucked away behind the Ohno Specialty Products Store– a place favored by Mr. K.
The café, resembling a hexagonal tower, displays locallysourced wild plants, mushrooms, vegetables, and fruits
at the storefront. In the rear, shelves showcase processed
items like jam and tsukudani. The café itself is a bitinconspicuous.
Upon arrival, Mr. K ordered "three coffees." Wondering
if someone else was joining besides Mr. K and me dueto the quantity, a survey of the store revealed no othercustomers. It later became clear that this was a gesture of
hospitality for someone working at the store.
Two women work in shifts at the specialty productstore, and each visit prompts Mr. K to treat them to coffee.
Furthermore, if a friend or relative happens to pass by
the store, Mr. K actively invites them in for coffee. For
instance, when a friend of the reporter, Ms. M, casually
walked by the sales office, she was called over: "Hey,planning to just walk by? Sit down and have some coffee,"said Mr. K, who then took her coffee order.
The reasons behind offering tea as a treat and actively
inviting people for coffee might seem like peculiar
behaviors. When asked, "Why do you treat us to coffee?"
Mr. K simply responded, "It's obvious."
Curious to learn more about Mr. K, I inquired with Ms. M,
who responded, "He's a generous host." Ms. M, having afamilial connection with Mr. K spanning three generations,enjoys a closeness such that Mr. K uses a pet name for her.
This cultural practice of "behaving well" extends beyond
Mr. K, as subsequently realized. During coverage of the Oh
no area while riding in a 7-Eleven mobile sales van, thereporter noticed this unique behavior. Mr. K's assertion of"It's obvious" turned out to mean "It's obvious in Ohno."●

Dried Persimmons from 92-Year-Old Ms.
T

After expressing admiration for Mr. K's intriguing habit
of offering tea even to strangers, the tables turned as I foundmyself treated to dried persimmons, courtesy of 92-yearold Ms. T. "Don't take them back with you," she insisted, agesture that unfolded during my coverage of the Ono areafrom the 7-Eleven mobile sales van. We set up a makeshift"store" in Ms. T's garden, with the side of the mobile vantransforming into a product display window and the rear
serving as the cash register, equipped with shopping carts
and plastic bags.
Joining us was Ms. M, a relative of Mr. K, whoclarified that she and Ms. T weren't mother and daughterbut part of a daily camaraderie referred to as the"Tonarigumi(neighboring group)". They spent their days
together, even peeling and drying persimmons. Ms. M
crafted 100 pieces, while Ms. T contributed 60, all froma bountiful delivery of astringent persimmons from Ms.
T's ancestral home. The labor-intensive process included
peeling even softball-sized persimmons.
Drying persimmons without sulfur fumigation is known
to risk mold growth, but Ms. M's secret, as she shared,
is to "speak to them, saying 'Become delicious, becomedelicious' while peeling." Ms. T proudly affirmed, "I makethem every year, but they've never gotten moldy." A nod
and shared glance sealed their agreement.
Ms. N from 7-Eleven also received a gift, prompting
a humble acknowledgment of having received one theprevious week. Notably, during a subsequent interview with
Ms. M, I was gifted a sizable bag of mandarin oranges fromher garden tree and an additional 10 dried persimmons.
Ms . M visits Ms.T's house every day. How do they
spend their time?
"Every day, we're laughing and having a good time,right?" When Ms.M says this,Ms.T replies, "It's fun when
we're together. We say something and burst into laughter
loudly, " "I don't talk about others. I share my old stories, ""There's no way not to laugh." "Yeah," agrees Ms.T. Bothare living alone.
Ms.T, who had no children, spent five years nursing
her sick husband at home until his passing. Despite thechallenges of caregiving, she found solace in visiting his
grave daily. "Being at the cemetery calms my heart. It took
ten years to get used to their absence. Losing someone close
feels strange for a while. That strange feeling disappeared
after ten years."
Ms.M, having raised five independent children and losther husband, concurs with the ten-year sentiment, saying,"Yeah, it's been kind of strange for ten years." It seems theirsouls are deeply intertwined. At 73, she even has a 4-yearold great-grandchild, proudly declaring herself a "greatgrandma."
Ms.M's house is only a five-minute walk away. The two
friends frequently shuttle between each other, exchanging
home-cooked meals and sharing mealtimes. Ms.T vividly
remembers Ms.M's birth and has watched her grow up.
They are closer than distant relatives.
Ms.T daily routine involves cultivating vegetables andmaintaining her garden. Even after marriage, she continued
working, sewing kimonos in her youth. She engaged insericulture, producing and shipping silkworm cocoons.
She cultivated wheat and managed a 2,000-strong sweet
potato crop. Living in the Ohno area, which once belonged
to Chichibu County, she reminisces about its lively

T ● O ● K ● I ● G ●A ● W ● A ● K ● I ● M ● A ● G ● U ● R ● E●（)"I'm coming to meet everyone."

This incident took place when I borrowed a shared taxi
stop to set up shop. Upon hearing it was for an interview,the response was abrupt: "Are you interviewing? When you
publish it, make sure to mosaic my face." The person was
still in their 50s. When asked why they came for shopping,
the response was unexpected: "With no school events andno chance to meet neighbors, I come when I hear Seven's
music."In the past, parents had occasions like sports days, school
festivals, cultural events, and parent-teacher meetings.
However, after their children graduated, opportunities tomeet neighbors dwindled. The mobile sales vehicles playa role in creating a space for chatting and informationexchange while shopping. "I get to meet Ms.N too." Ms.N
often addresses customers by their first names and not only
assists with shopping but also shares information about the
town. The initial assumption of mobile sales catering to
shopping refugees crumbles, revealing a different purpose.

atmosphere with offices, schools, and shops.
Even now, she faces no significant challenges. Herneighbors assist with shopping errands, reflecting the
deeply ingrained values of mutual aid and independence inthe community.

●

Make an effort to “live with laughter”

7-Eleven's mobile sales vehicles are set to open "stores"
at eight different locations. First, they play announcementswith music while looping around the area, then they stopat designated spots, awaiting customers. These spots range
from gardens like T-ko's to shared taxi stops and roadedges.
While opening a shop along the roadside next to aguardrail, I encountered two individuals determined tospend their day with laughter. They turned out to bemembers of the "Tonarigumi (neighboringgroup)" . When I mentioned it was for an interview, they
responded with laughter, saying, "Oh, I didn't bother withmakeup today," and "I just came in my regular clothes."
Ms.N from 7-Eleven described, "It's always so lively,
like a manzai comic act." The shopping experience is also
filled with excitement. "Bananas are a must." "My blood
sugar level rises because Ms.N brings delicious things." In
the midst of various conversations, these words slipped out:
"Whether you wake up in the morning, look down, or livewith a smile, it's all the same day." "Exactly. Living withlaughter makes for a much better day." A glimpse into aphilosophical approach to life unfolded.

It was also mentioned that, with children independent,
efforts are underway to initiate new activities and create
opportunities to meet. One such endeavor is miso-making.
People from Ono and Nishihira gather to make and sellmiso, utilizing the town's fittings hall with the necessary
equipment.
"I'm in my 60s, but I'm considered young. The seniors
leading the way are in their 80s. They are enthusiastic.
The miso they make is sold at places like 'Yasuragi noIe(Community Hall).' We're currently discussing broader
sales, aiming to cultivate it as an industry.""Yasuragi no Ie" is a handmade udon noodle shop locatedin Nishihira, just before Ono. The person making the udon
noodles is a woman, visible through the glass. It's a townowned store relocated from a century-old folk house,
displaying magnificent architecture with high ceilings andthick beams. They plan to gather in January next year for
preparations, followed by another session in February.
Typical of Ohno, once children leave, adults cometogether to brainstorm activities. While some create
opportunities for face-to-face interaction and sharedactivities, modern society often focuses on relationships
based on calculated gains and losses. The prevalent idea
is to view others as tools and evaluate them based on theirutility, determining whether or not to engage based on
perceived usefulness. This perspective emphasizes livingwith an attitude of calculating future gains and losses.
Conversely, other relationships prioritize the present andimmediate interactions. This approach cherishes the "now"and emphasizes living without sacrificing the present forthe sake of the future. It's akin to the concept of "Ichigo
Ichie" or "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," where people
engage with each other in the moment and treasure thoseconnections.
In pre-modern Japan, this kind of relationship was likely
commonplace. There's a saying from the Edo period, "Don't
keep money overnight," which can be interpreted in various
ways, but one interpretation is that living generously
without being stingy contributes to daily life. Having many
people who act generously allows individuals to rely onothers' support during challenging times.
During interviews in Ohno, I often received expressions
like "Have some tea" or "Have lunch." I realized this is amanifestation of a cultural exchange. After being treated, I
would bring a small gift the next time I visited. With suchexchanges, the need for money diminishes.
As a side note, this culture is not exclusive to Ohno.
When traveling in remote areas, you might suddenly findyourself treated to lunch or sweets at a house you visit. The

culture of generosity persists stubbornly in remote areas.
However, as the number of elderly individuals carrying thisculture decreases, it risks fading away along with them.

●

To Sustain the "Culture of Generosity,"
Restarting Some Bus Routes

If one were to focus solely on the individuals visiting
mobile sales vans for shopping, it might seem that mutual
assistance is seamlessly functioning without any concerns.
However, the reality is far less optimistic. Those genuinely
facing hardship tend to remain confined at home, limiting
their outdoor activities.
On a rainy day like this, only 25 people ventured out
for shopping, a fraction of the usual 30 attendees. The
circumstances of those who abstain from shopping remain
unknown, compounded by the fact that 7-Eleven deliveries
are halted on days of rain and snow.
The suspension of bus services in the Ohno area occurred
three years ago, coinciding with the onset of the pandemic.
Understanding the extent to which individuals are affectedby this hiatus requires individualized investigation, as thosetruly in distress often refrain from voicing their struggles.
During this investigative journey, I encountered one
individual visibly distressed. An 88-year-old woman,despite making it to the mobile sales van, refrains frommaking any purchases. When asked about her shopping
habits, she explained, "I frequently travel to various placesby car with my next-door neighbor."
Her neighbors, a couple who relocated from the city toOhno, have extended invitations whenever the husband falls
ill and the wife steps out. Consequently, she has no need for
7-Eleven purchases, stopping by the sales van only while
taking a walk. She shared, "I spend the entire day walking,currently on a stroll. I used to attend a gymnastics class at asupermarket in Ogawamachi three times a week. However,
due to the bus service cancellation, I can no longer attend.
It's truly disappointing."
Searching "Tokigawa Town, Ohno Area Bus" on theinternet brings up a NAVITIME site listing bus stops andtimetables, suggesting continued operations online even
if the service is effectively suspended. Consulting theTokigawa Town Hall website, the service status is labeled"suspended," citing a "shortage of drivers" as the reason.
Presently, the closest bus stop in the Ohno area is at the"Daini(second) Government Building," proximate to theSeseragi Bus Center. Though a bus to Ogawamachi departs
from the same stop (with a transfer involved), directing it
on a slight detour to reach destinations like the Joinery Hallor Ohno Special Products Sales Office could potentiallyrevive bus services without the need for a new driver.
The distance to the special products store is around 6.7km, an 8-minute car ride. Given this, even if a complete
reopening of the Ohno line is unfeasible, proposing a partial
resumption could be a manageable compromise. "I hope

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they consider restarting at least a part of it," speculates thereporter, perhaps echoing the expectations of those whohave relinquished their licenses.
Shared taxis pose a hurdle with reservations requiringa phone or smartphone, an obstacle for many elderly
individuals who may struggle with such technology. Thusfar, based on the reporter's experiences, there hasn't been
widespread usage of shared taxi services.

The Ohno area currently attracts enthusiasts of road
biking as a hobby, fostering a community visible on
weekends as bikers form columns along mountain roads.
Campgrounds like Komoriba have opened, contributing
to an influx of young immigrants. This pattern reflects theappealing living conditions in Ohno and the efficacy of its"culture of
behavior."
To preserve the ingrained "culture of generosity" among
the people of Ohno, it is hoped that the reinstatement ofsome bus routes, even if logistically challenging, could
contribute to the improved living conditions of newresidents. The desire for such a change is expressed by thereporter. (Written by & © Midori Nishida)

Tremendous Success!!
"Kawara Edition of Kimagure Tokigawa"Inaugural Commemorative Prize Drawing
Grand Prize Goes to a First-Year Junior High School Student!!
Rattle, Rattle!!
As the handle of the Garapon spun around, it clicked and revealed the grand prize—an accommodation catalog for a carefully
selected destination valued at ¥100,000. The fortunate winner was a first-year junior high school student attending with their father,and we captured the moment with a commemorative photo featuring the iconic V sign. From two electrically assisted bicycles for awoman in her 50s to two children's bicycles for an elementary school student, each prize found its perfect match. There were no emptyhanded participants, and the fifth prize consisted of locally curated gifts from the esteemed Saladkan Tanakaya Co., Ltd.
The gift lottery, celebrating the launch of "Kimagure Tokigawa Kawaraban," unfolded over two days, October 28th (Saturday) and29th (Sunday), culminating in resounding success at Seseragi Hall.
On the initial day, individuals of all ages, spanning elementary, junior high, and high school students to the elderly, reveled in the excitement of playing "Garagarapon!"—asentiment likely fueled by those initially startled attendees who took to social media to proclaim its enjoyment.
Diverse were the methods of revelry. Among the participants were two inseparable friends, aged 90 and 86, who strolled leisurely, showcasing their vitality. "I'm 90 years old.
I walked here today," declared one, highlighting their robust physicality. As they visited the photo exhibition corner, the elder reminisced, "It's nostalgic. I'm an artist. Recently, I
sketched cosmos and persimmons."
The exhibited photographs, chronicling post-war life and sourced from the Prefectural Archives via Saitama Shimbun, portrayed snapshots of bygone eras—scenes of meals, shrine
festivities, baseball tournaments, and bus excursions. "Back in those days, buses couldn't maneuver quickly, and we often came close to collisions," recalled one participant. "Theysure shook a lot," added another.
While admiring their vigor, the 86-year-old companion disclosed, "He tends to be a bit forgetful. That's why I always make sure to be with him." Despite articulate speech andassured responses, the gentleman exhibited a penchant for forgetfulness.
"I eagerly anticipate our visit to Tokian for a shared soba experience. It's quite a
distance, but we always manage to walk back home together."Tokian, nestled in the heart of Nishidaira, is celebrated for its whole grain soba. Alone,
it might be labeled as "wandering," but with a companion, it transforms into a delightful"stroll." Their circle of friends converged, creating an ambiance reminiscent of a salon fora brief moment.
The recipient of the large TV mused, "I consider this an advance reward. I sense
something significant will unfold in the future," offering a somewhat philosophicalreflection.
Indeed, there were myriad small dramas. We eagerly encourage you to continue yourreadership of Kawaraban!

T ● O ● K ● I ● G ●A ● W ● A ● K ● I ● M ● A ● G ● U ● R ● E（)TonaINAKAi Communication- Inaugural Issue Digest -Public Transportation Challenges in Tokigawa Town●

885 Municipalities Designated as Depopulated - Tokigawa Town Designated in
Reiwa 3!

What is the current situation in depopulated areas? According to a Yomiuri Shimbun online article on March
21, 2022, a total of 65 municipalities in 27 prefectures were added based on the 2020 census results, bringing thenumber of designated municipalities to 885. Seven municipalities in Saitama Prefecture were also designated,
including Tokigawa Town.
Saitama Prefecture has published the "Saitama Prefecture Sustainable Development Policy for Depopulated
Areas (Reiwa3~Reiwa7)," and here is a quote from a part of it:
This policy is based on the provisions of Article 7 of the Act on Special Measures Concerning
Support for Sustainable Development of Depopulated Areas (Act No. 19 of 2021), hereinafterreferred to as the "Depopulation Act." It serves as a guideline for the Sustainable Development
Plan for Depopulated Areas formulated by municipalities in depopulated areas and the Sustainable
Development Plan for Depopulated Areas of Saitama Prefecture. The covered period and area are
as follows.
The designated depopulated areas in Saitama Prefecture include Chichibu City, Ogano Town,
Kamikawa Town, Higashichichibu, Minano Town, Nagatoro Town, and Tokigawa Town.

●

Shared Taxis Introduced After Suspension of Bus Routes

On April 1, 2020, Tokigawa Town's bus routes were reduced as follows:
The operational bus routes are essentially four:
1. Tobu Tojo Line to Musashi-Arashiyama Station via Myokaku Station
2. Tobu Tojo Line to Musashi-Arashiyama Station via Juodomae
3. JR Hachiko Line to Ogose Station
4. Tobu Tojo Line to Ogawamachi Station via JRCS Hospital

Each route operates at approximately one-hour intervals. However, the bus routeto the Ono area is suspended due to the challenging terrain in the western part of thetown where about 20% of the residents reside.
To compensate for this, shared taxis provide detailed
services, such as a taxi stop beyond Jiko-ji Temple,
extending to Reizan-in Temple in the mountainous
region.

●Bus Routes to Remote Mountains
Designated as Depopulated - A Case Studyof Higashichichibu Village

While it's not a direct comparison to the situationin Tokigawa Town, let's delve into the mountainous
terrain bordering the Ohno district, specifically theareas like Dodairasan and Kasayama in Higashichichibu
Village. These areas include deep spots like Shiroishi
Garage, the entrance to mountain climbing adventures.
It's a valley on the opposite side of the mountain to
the north of the Ono area. Unlike Tokigawa Town,
Higashichichibu Village has a significantly lower
population density, with around 2,000 residents, mostly

residing in the mountainous regions.
The Kaiya district in this village bears a striking resemblance to the Ono district,
where Tokigawa Town discontinued its bus service. A river flows through the valley
between the mountains, and there are faint signs of human habitation.
Despite being nestled deep in the mountains, Higashichichibu Village has managed
to ensure a bus service as a lifeline to the remote areas through a reconsideration ofits bus routes, improving profitability in the process. It's noteworthy that, similar to
Tokigawa Town's structure with Seseragi Bus Center as the hub, Higashichichibu
Village uses the roadside station, Washi-no-Sato, as the starting hub for route buses.
The main difference lies in Higashichichibu Village not having introduced demand
taxis yet.

（ 10 )●

T ● O ● K ● I ● G ●A ● W ● A ● K ● I ● M ● A ● G ● U ● R ● E

Key Points for Ensuring and Sustaining Local Public
Transportation① Private Paid Passenger Transportation System
Established in 2006, this system allows for paid transportation using private
vehicles on an exception basis when bus or taxi services are not operational. Bothlocal governments and non-profit organizations can implement this, and it operates
on a registration basis rather than a business system.
② Welfare Paid Transportation System for Care Recipients and Physically
Disabled Individuals
In cases where public transportation, such as taxis, fails toprovide adequate services for care recipients or those withphysical disabilities, non-profit organizations may operate
individual transportation services using private vehicles with acapacity of 10 or fewer passengers, all within specific expense
limits (information derived from Saitama Prefecture public
relations materials).

●

Case Study of Private Paid Passenger Transport in Hanno
City

The depopulation scenario in Tokigawa Town shares similarities with the districtsof Higashiagano and Agano in Hanno City (which is not designated as depopulated).
Despite having a Seibu Line station, these districts lack bus services, posing
challenges for residents. To address this, the non-profit organization Okumusashino
Green Resort has initiated a paid transportation system utilizing private vehicles.
Residents' persistent efforts, exemplified in case studies published by the Ministryof Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism, showcase the realization of their
aspirations through hands-on community involvement.

③ Ride-Sharing Initiatives
This service involves matching drivers of dedicatedchartered vehicles with passengers, essentially legalizing
what is commonly known as white taxis. Yabu City in Hyogo
Prefecture has successfully implemented the ride-sharing service"Yabukuru" over the past five and a half years. Meanwhile,
Tottori Prefecture is contemplating a "Tottori-style ride share."④ Car-Sharing
Residents in depopulated areas like Ohno, Kunugidaira, andNishihira can leverage car-sharing practices popular in urban
centers. However, the success of these initiatives heavily relies
on a consensus emphasizing mutual aid and volunteer efforts byresidents.

●

Toyama City's "Outing Commuter Pass" – Over 100 Million Yen
Reduction in Medical Expenses

In documents from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism,
there's a public transportation discount system called the "Outing Commuter Pass,"
implemented by Toyama City. The city collaborated with transportation operators
to set a fare of 100 yen for round trips for seniors aged 65 and above traveling fromvarious parts of the city to the downtown area.
With a total population of over 400,000, Toyama City has about a quarter of its
seniors holding commuter passes, with approximately 2,800 individuals using them
daily on average.
The resulting benefits are quite remarkable. According to Toyama City's estimates,
this initiative will lead to a reduction of 112 million yen in annual medical expenses.
Why is this the case?
Using the Outing Commuter Pass leads seniors to increase their average
daily steps by about 2,000, resulting in reduced susceptibility to illnesses. The
affordability of riding buses or trains for just 100 yen serves as compelling evidenceof its significant psychological impact, motivating elderly individuals to engage inmore activities.
Shouldn't Tokigawa Town reconsider its inconvenient zone fares for its bus
routes? A fare of 220 yen is an awkward amount and alone diminishes theinclination to use the service. Ignoring such psychological factors could stagnate
efforts to revitalize the town.

TonakainakaiR Tsushin is a sibling publication of Tokigawa Kimagure Kawaraban.
For any inquiries regarding the content, kindly reach out to the publisher: Tokogawa
PJ, as indicated on the opening page of this material. The official content (PDF) of theinaugural issue of "Tonainakai Tsushin" has been made accessible on the following
webpage. (January 30, 2024)
http://www.tgkawaraban.chigensya.jp/PDF/240130_tonainakai01.pdf
Copyright 2023 Tokogawa PJ (C) All rights reserved●

List of hospitals and clinics near Tokigawa Town

Arai Eye Clinic/tel:0493-74-1711/ZC:355-0328 Ogawamachi Otsuka 907-1
Iizuka Orthopedic Clinic/tel:0493-72-3308/ZC:355-0328 Ogawamachi Otsuka 86
Iwahori Clinic (Urology)/tel:0493-71-6601/899-2 Ogawamachi Kamiyakota ZC:355-0312
Uchida Clinic (Internal Medicine)/tel:0493-72-0516/ 149-3 Otsuka, Ogawamachi, ZC:355-0328
Ohno Clinic (Rheumatology/Allergy)/tel:0493-74-1868/491 Ogawamachi Ogawa ZC:355-0321
Ogawa Red Cross Hospital (general)/tel:0493-72-2333/ 1525 Ogawa, Ogawa-machi, ZC:355-0321
Ogawa Hospital (General)/tel:0493-73-2750/205 Harakawa, Ogawa-machi, ZC:355-0317
Kinoshita Clinic (Diabetes Internal Medicine)/tel:0493-72-0375/660 Otsuka, Ogawa-machi, ZC:355-0328
Takano Clinic (Internal Medicine)/tel:0493-72-0045/103 Otsuka, Ogawamachi, ZC:355-0328
Kobayashi Internal Medicine Clinic (Nephrology)/tel:0493-81-3902/930-1 Otsuka, Ogawamachi, ZC:355-0328
Sakura Orthopedic Clinic/tel:0493-71-6411/2-10-4 Ogawamachi Midorigaoka 335-0315
Satsuki Internal Medicine Clinic/tel:0493-71-6050/471-1 Ogawamachi Ogawa ZC:355-0321
Sanada Hospital (Cardiology)/tel:0493-72-8020/2-2-2 Midorigaoka, Ogawa-machi, 335-0315
Otolaryngology Nozaki Clinic/tel:0493-72-0389/ 1149-1 Otsuka, Ogawamachi, ZC:355-0328
Suzuki Clinic (Dermatology)/tel:0493-72-1215/ 1194-3 Ogawamachi Koshizuka ZC:355-0327
Segawa Hospital (Surgery/Neurology)/tel:0493-72-0328/30-1 Ogawamachi Otsuka ZC:355-0328
Taguchi Clinic (otolaryngology)/tel:0493-72-1036/ 88-1 Ogawa-machi Ogawa ZC:355-0321
Tanaka Eye Clinic/tel:0493-72-0304/ZC:355-0328 Ogawamachi Otsuka 1180-1
Nakamura Obstetrics and Gynecology / tel:0493-72-0373 / 1176-1 Otsuka, Ogawamachi, ZC:355-0328
Nozaki Clinic (Surgery/Internal Medicine/Physical Checkup)/tel:0493-72-0101/1439 Ogawamachi Aoyama

ZC:355-0324
Park Hill Clinic (Internal Medicine/Allergy)/tel:0493-74-4125/3-9-1 Higashi Ogawa, Ogawa-machi, ZC:355-0322
Hara Clinic (Internal Medicine)/tel:0493-72-0362/86 Otsuka, Ogawamachi, ZC:355-0328
Miyazaki Clinic (Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics)/tel:0493-72-2233/285 Otsuka, Ogawamachi,
ZC:355-0328
Yanagisawa Clinic (Gastroenterology, Hepatology)/tel:0493-72-0024/21-7 Otsuka, Ogawamachi, ZC:355-0328
Shimizu Pediatric Allergy Clinic/tel:0493-61-2431/ 512-1 Sugaya, Arashiyama-cho, ZC:355-0221
Nozaki Clinic (Gastroenterology/Proctology)/tel:0493-61-1810/693 Senjudo, Arashiyama-cho, ZC:355-0227
Watanabe Obstetrics and Gynecology (Chinese medicine/Pediatrics)/tel:0493-62-5885/249-98 Sugaya,
Arashiyama-cho, ZC:355-0221
Hatoyama Daiichi Clinic (Internal Medicine/Pediatrics)/tel:049-296-6800/3-7-2 Matsugaoka, Hatoyama-cho,
350-0313
Fukushima Internal Medicine (Cardiovascular Medicine/Pediatrics)/tel:049-298-0600/4-17-8 Kaedegaoka,
Hatoyama-cho, 350-0314
Asami Hospital (Psychiatry/Romantic Medicine)/tel:049-296-1155/1066 Ohashi, Hatoyama-cho, 350-0302
Kinosato Clinic (internal medicine/home medical treatment)/tel:0493-66-0770/ZC:355-0355Tokigawacho Baba
50-1
Kodama Clinic (Internal Medicine)/tel:0493-65-0147/ZC:355-0361186 Momoki, Tokigawa-cho
Tamagawa Clinic (Internal Medicine)/tel:0493-66-0128/ZC:355-03431267-1 Gomei, Tokigawa Town
Nanbu Internal Medicine Clinic (Internal Medicine)/tel:0493-67-0438/ZC:355-0364Tokigawa-cho Oaza Nishidaira643-1
Hajikawa Clinic (Gastroenterology, Cardiology, Respiratory)/tel:0493-65-0043/ZC:355-0354Tokigawa-choBansho 295--Iruma District General Hospital
Ogose Medical Clinic (General)/tel:049-277-1119/ 199-1 Kuroiwa, Ogose-cho, Iruma-gun, ZC:350-0411
Saitama Medical University Hospital (General)/tel:049-276-1111/38 Morohongo, Moroyama-cho, Iruma-gun,
ZC:350-0495