Retreat Publishing (Representative: Norikazu Yanokura), a commercial publishing label based in Miyakojima, Okinawa, released 'LIFE CHANGING: The Starry Sky Experience' (Author: NOBBY Ikeda / Photographer: Keiichi Inada) on May 31, 2026, as the second installment in its life-changing experience series.
While the book focuses on the starry skies of Kurima Island, connected to Miyakojima by a bridge, its essence is the story of a man who continued to believe in the pure curiosity within himself.
Publishing producer Norikazu Yanokura, who lives in both Chiba and Miyakojima, has expressed concern over urban speed eroding island landscapes and their reduction to mere 'consumption.' His sentiment resonated with the life of NOBBY Ikeda, who previously worked at the forefront of the media industry.
Ikeda, who worked in Tokyo media and as a nature guide on Hawaii Island, eventually arrived in Kurima Island. For this book, he partnered with Keiichi Inada, a young starry-sky photographer and a leading social media influencer in Miyakojima. The book also includes a special dialogue between the two as they meet and talk under the night sky of Kurima Island.
Additionally, through Ikeda’s generosity, a portion of the book's proceeds will be donated to funds for Inada’s campaign to make Kurima Island a certified dark sky preserve.
In the spring of 2026, the observatory project 'MIYAKO GALAXY-DOME,' led by Ikeda, will launch. This book offers a retreat experience—distancing oneself from the flood of information to reboot the self—through overwhelming photography and words. The text also includes English and Chinese translations, promoting 'ethical travel' to domestic and international visitors.
[Product Information] Title: LIFE CHANGING: The Starry Sky Experience Author: NOBBY Ikeda / Photography: Keiichi Inada Publisher: Retreat Publishing Release Date: May 31, 2026 Price: 1,760 JPY (tax included)
FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: New Product
- Products / services: MIYAKO GALAXY-DOME