Yamazumi Gibier, 8MATO, and Hokuto Fan Club Collaborate on 'Itadakimasu' Experiential Learning Project in Yatsugatake

Exploring the True Meaning of "Itadakimasu" Together in the Forest

Hokuto City's official "Hokuto Fan Club," Yamazumi Gibier, and 8MATO are co-hosting a hands-on learning experience in the Yatsugatake mountains: "Life, Food, and Forest: Thinking About the Meaning of Itadakimasu."

This 5-day program across three sessions allows participants to learn the meaning of "Itadakimasu" (the Japanese expression of gratitude before meals) by hunting, butchering, fire-starting, and cooking with Shinya Tanabe, a hunter and chef from Yamazumi Gibier. It is designed as an experiential program for both adults and children.

"Itadakimasu!"

Have you ever thought about the true meaning of this phrase? In modern times, with pre-cut meat in supermarkets and boxed lunches in convenience stores, we have forgotten that our food was once a "living creature," often treating this expression as a mere greeting. Humans cannot survive without taking other lives. "Itadakimasu" is a profound prayer of gratitude for receiving that life into our own.

This project asks participants to step away from modern convenience and enter the forests of Yatsugatake. They will track animals, handle raw game, carve their own wooden chopsticks, start fires with flint, grill meat over an open flame, and even tan animal hides. It’s an opportunity to live like ancient Jomon people, working with their own bodies to confront "life" directly. Through this raw yet beautiful experience, the true meaning of "Itadakimasu" will be deeply engraved in the hearts of parents and children.

Overview of "Life, Food, and Forest" Experience

Session 1: Learning to Live in the Forest (1 night, 2 days, tent stay) - Schedule: Saturday, May 30 (10:00 AM) to Sunday, May 31 (2:00 PM, scheduled) - Location: 8MATO, 7318 Yato, Oizumi-cho, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture - Details: Opening ceremony, hiking in 8MATO forest, animal tracking, safe knife/tool handling, wooden chopstick making, fire-making, and basic camping techniques. The program includes learning to butcher and cook live birds.