Memories of Water and Forests: Stories Living on in Ichinose, Shiga Kogen
A storybook bringing together the history, nature, daily life, and the culture of “otenma”—the communal work tradition passed down through the Ichinose area of Shiga Kogen—has now been completed. This book looks back on Ichinose’s journey as a community that has worked to balance tourism and nature conservation within a national park, told through the voices of those connected to the area, and passes these memories on to the next generation.
Contents of the Book
・Overview of the Ichinose Area
・Ichinose Calendar
・Ichinose Hotel Map
・Resident Survey
・Everyday Life in Ichinose
・Ichinose Encyclopedia
・Columns by Former Ryokan Association Chairpersons
・Interviews with the Younger Generation
・Historical Timeline
・How This Book Was Made
The Thoughts Behind This Book
This book focuses on the Ichinose area, located in the heart of Shiga Kogen within Joshin’etsukogen National Park in northern Nagano Prefecture. Ichinose has developed as a key base where lodging facilities and ski slopes are concentrated. In addition to its appeal as a winter ski resort, the book also introduces ways to enjoy nature throughout the seasons, from walking trails in summer and autumn to alpine plants and mountain scenery.
At the heart of what Ichinose has long valued is the idea that “protecting nature is not someone else’s job, but the responsibility of everyone who lives here.” One especially symbolic example of this is “otenma,” the area’s traditional form of communal work and volunteer service. Local residents have taken it upon themselves to carry out environmental conservation work, such as cleaning waterways and maintaining walking trails, building the foundation that supports the landscape and daily life of Ichinose today.
Another essential element in telling the story of Ichinose is the presence of water. As a community located in a headwater region, Ichinose has faced challenges related to securing drinking water and treating wastewater. Through repeated trial and effort, the community has continued striving to balance nature and tourism. This book offers a multi-layered look at the initiatives the area has built up over time through a historical timeline, glossary, and interviews with people connected to the community.
As part of the production process, a roundtable discussion was also held with lodging operators belonging to the Ichinose Ryokan Association. Participants ranging from veteran members to younger generations shared local memories and wisdom, creating an opportunity to reconsider the value of Ichinose as a place. We hope this storybook will serve as a gateway for visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Ichinose, and as a foundation for the local community to build consensus and carry its legacy into the future.
This storybook brings together the area’s stories and history, along with the insights gained through the roundtable discussion and the participants’ feelings for the community. We hope that Ichinose’s unique way of engaging with nature, as well as the history and culture that local people have continued to protect, will lead to new discoveries and meaningful experiences for all who visit. Looking ahead, local stakeholders will continue working together to create a positive cycle between the conservation and use of the national park.
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The Ryokan Association helps visitors enjoy memorable trips while also managing the water supply—an essential lifeline for the community—and the shared wastewater treatment facility, which lies at the heart of local environmental conservation efforts.
Create wonderful memories in the Ichinose area of Shiga Kogen, where powder snow awaits in winter and endless, beautiful nature welcomes you in summer. All of us at the Ichinose Ryokan Association look forward to welcoming you! We’re a friendly bunch, too.
