Jungle VIP

By Japanzine Staff

In the blurb that comes with the Gankoyama press kit, the organizers encourage people to, "enjoy various activities that were a part of everyday Japanese life in days gone by." It's the first we've heard of Heian life in the trees. However - despite our worldwide renown as an authority on all things Nippon - we can't guarantee we know everything (though we're happy to spread rumors). Either way, Gankoyama's claim to being the, "perfect place for people who want to unwind", looks spot on.

Located in Minami Boso, Chiba, this large nature zone (approximately the same ground space as the Tokyo Dome) is a mere 90 minutes by Highway Bus from Tokyo Station. It has been in operation for a good ten years, though it's only in recent months that they've begun a conscious effort to cater to foreign visitors. They now boast a tour - perfect for a long weekend, run entirely in English - and they're proud to say that places are being snapped up quick sharp.

But Gankoyama is no mere nature zone. The area was cultivated as a relaxing retreat-cum-education center, with a whole heap of fun mixed in for good measure. Visitors take up residence in comfortable treehouses, and are encouraged to live as close to nature as possible. All energy needs are serviced by wind generators and handmade solar panels, which you can learn to build yourself as part of the longer tour. Quite what they do with all the energy they spark up is anyone's guess, as there is a strict no-electricity policy on site, and all meals are cooked over an open campfire.

The official English-language tour spans 3 days and 2 nights and involves more activity than you can shake a stick at, if you'll pardon the cliche. You see, if it's stick-shaking you're interested in, you couldn't be in a better situation. The Gankoyama staff leads participants through an energetic 3 days that involves building your own treehouse and learning about the disasterous effects that industry has had on Japanese forests (the treehouse-building industry is presumably let off the hook). Tour leaders pride themselves on having introduced a lot of their guests to the realities of this problem, feeling that they leave with a new awareness of what needs to be done.

Those of you that see this as an ideal break should be aware that there is a long waiting list. The tour is only held on specific days - long weekends and holiday periods are especially hectic - so booking up to 6 months in advance is advisable. However, if you're in a group of 5 or more, it's worth giving Gankoyama a ring, as you'll make up the requisite house-building team on your own.

Anyone that just wants a night away in a pre-built treehouse needs to contact the owner at least two days in advance. All reservations can be made via their fully-functional English-language website, which can be found at www.gankoyama.com.

Getting to Gankoyama

Regular Highway Buses run between Tokyo Station and Highway Oasis Furari, the nearest stop to Gankoyama. Let the staff know the time of your arrival, and they can pick you up from the bus stop. Detailed travel information is available online at www.gankoyama.com/access.html.

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