家 - the house

Artist Residence/Retreat and Ski Lodge

Concept & Vision

家 - the house

The story: Three years ago I fell in love with a near ruined, derelicte 'Kominka.' Literally, on a whim I wanted to buy it and save it from falling down. It has been eclectically renovated by the unique passions and skills from many friends, volunteers, guests and helpers. It is the continuing vision to offer a opportunity for guests, Artists and others to stay in a quiet, serene and rural environment in the 'navel' of Hyogo. Though basic it has 1GB internet access, a cute retro kitchen (Showa Era) and sleeping for 5 people. More people can stay if they are comfortable using futons.

Daily the house changes as all the friends passing through add something of their own spirit and creativity. I am no longer the owner of the house, just it's guardian and protector. It has a life of its own and you are welcome to be part of this.

I can also offer the house for Voluntourism or Volunaction at special rates. You can learn how to garden, nuture and grow vegetables and in the future also be involved in other practical workshops. The workshops may range from traditional Japanese skills E.g. Tsumami, Tea ceremony or the opportunity to learn Japanese from local people. Ultimately you can experience Japan by living in the community and being engaged with restoring and supporting the local community through particapation.

For Airbnb guests or paying Artists/Guests there is no requirement to offer work other than tidy and clean up after yourselves. For volunteers there is a trust expectation that you offer at least 3 hours of your time a day for 5 days a week to work in the house or garden.

The house is open to all. It is GLOW friendly and I just want people to act as a 'Mensch.'

The Apartment: Jack Lemmon, Shirley Maclaine - IMBD

To Sarah and Grace, thank you for showing me more about who I can be, or at least strive in a direction to be a benefit or a positive affect in everyone's lives. But....alas I am a Mensch, with all the flaws, fragility, inspiration and....well....still trying to find out.

家 - the house - 'have you stayed'

This video was made by Andi, a volunteer who stayed for more than a month with his partner Julia. Much fun was had by all the volunteers and it was a pleasure to be featured in this video.

This video was made by Peter, a friend who helped me make a video of my mission and feeling aobout the house. He was also the director and writer of a horror movie short called Ie - the house. It is now on IMBD too. If you write to me I can send you the link....my acting is to horrific to be publicly shared.

This is official advertising from the Kamikawa Village: featuring Non, who was born and went to school in Kamikawa.

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