Leave Your Smartphone Behind and Head into the Forests of Shizuoka: An Adult Digital Detox Journey in Okushizu's Ikawa

Approximately 80% of Shizuoka City's area consists of deep mountainous regions collectively known as 'Okushizu'—a beloved nickname for this serene part of the city. Far removed from daily urban noise, this region preserves pristine rivers, dense forests, and traditional lifestyles, forming another face of Shizuoka City.

Okushizu is divided into several zones, with special attention now focused on the northernmost area: the 'Southern Alps Zone (Ikawa Area).' This region, where majestic 3,000-meter-class mountains harmonize beautifully with the lives of local residents, has been designated a UNESCO Eco Park—a globally significant recognition. Based in Ikawa, the gateway to the Southern Alps, we introduce a rejuvenating journey centered on the 'Minami Alps UNESCO Eco Park Museum,' which celebrates its first anniversary on July 12, 2026.

Step away from smartphone notifications and immerse yourself in panoramic adventures, local cuisine, and a whisky distillery in harmony with nature. This is a premium detox experience that deeply liberates your mind and body through nature’s rhythms and analog time.

Four Digital Detox Experiences in the Ikawa Area

1) Experience the Grand Nature and Lifestyle of the Southern Alps: The Gateway to an Extraordinary World

The 'Minami Alps UNESCO Eco Park Museum' was established as an experiential hub to share and preserve the natural grandeur, history, and culture of the Ikawa region. This summer, as it marks its first anniversary, the museum will host a gratitude festival for all who love the Southern Alps.

① First Anniversary Event: '1st Anniversary'

A special day packed with premium content that will delight hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Date and Time: July 12, 2026 (Sun), 10:00–16:00

Location: Minami Alps UNESCO Eco Park Museum (708-1 Ikawa, Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City)

Guests: Shogo Mochizuki, Hirotake Takeuchi, Ken Yamamoto

Admission: Free (※TJAR Photo Exhibition only: Adults 500 yen, Children under elementary school free)

Main Programs:

The first-ever photo exhibition showcasing the Trans Japan Alps Race (TJAR), a 415km endurance race from the Sea of Japan to the Pacific, crossing 3,000m-class peaks.

Additional exciting programs tailored for outdoor lovers.

Talk Session with Hirotake Takeuchi and Shogo Mochizuki

Live recording of the podcast 'Let’s Meet in the Mountains! (Yamaken & Mocchi)'

First Edition of the Stamp Rally: Live Lottery Draw

For event details, visit: https://www.mi-museum.jp/1stanniversary

② Additional Event Information

<Digital Stamp Rally & Live Lottery Draw>

Download the official app 'MEGURUWAY' and participate in the 'Southern Alps Ikawa Hidden Adventure Stamp Rally,' a touring event where you collect digital stamps at various spots in the Ikawa area. Completing all spots enters you into a lottery to win a G-SHOCK watch modeled after Shogo Mochizuki! The results of the first stamp rally (deadline: July 10) will be announced live by Mochizuki himself at the July 12 event.

<Local Market & Lucky Draw>

On the event day, a local market featuring regional products and a lucky draw will be held to enhance the festive atmosphere.

③ Facility Overview and Experience Programs

The museum is an experiential facility based on the concept of 'M:I (Mission of Ikawa / Minami Alps Ikawa),' where visitors can learn about coexistence with nature and sustainable living for the future.

<Southern Alps Panorama Theater>

A theater space offering immersive video experiences of the vast natural landscapes and breathtaking scenery of the Southern Alps.

<Restaurant AKAISHI>

Enjoy locally sourced cuisine in a comfortable space overlooking Ikawa Lake. Try game burgers made from deer and wild boar, one-plate meals with heirloom grains and native ingredients.

<Experience Content (E-bike Rental)>

Rent electric-assist bicycles (YAMAHA CROSSCORE) from 3,300 yen for 2 hours or more. Experience the joy of cycling through Ikawa’s scenic and hidden spots, feeling the fresh mountain breeze.

Facility Name: Minami Alps UNESCO Eco Park Museum (https://www.mi-museum.jp/)

Address: 708-1 Ikawa, Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture

Phone: 054-295-5005

Opening Hours: 10:00–16:00 (Thu–Sun)

Admission: Free (※Voluntary cooperation fee requested for operations and Southern Alps environmental protection)

2) Explore Nostalgic Spots That Offer an Escape from Daily Life

Abandoned Railway Path

The 'Abandoned Railway Path' is a walking trail built along a disused railway line that once served as a supply route during the construction of Ikawa Dam. Walk on the old tracks, pass through tunnels, and rest on lakeside benches for a unique hiking experience.

Address: 1956-1 Nishiyamasawa, Ikawa, Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture

Phone: 054-260-2211 (Shizuoka City Ikawa Branch Office)

Opening Hours: Open access

Yume no Tsurihashi (Dream Suspension Bridge)

Extending from the Abandoned Railway Path, the 'Dream Suspension Bridge' spans 80 meters with a height of 50 meters. With a capacity of just five people, this thrilling bridge offers panoramic views of deep nature, allowing you to forget smartphone alerts and fully embrace the breath of the wild—a perfect digital detox experience.

Address: Ikawa, Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City (west side beyond the Abandoned Railway Path)

Phone: 054-221-1071 (Shizuoka City Sports Promotion Division)

Opening Hours: Open access (※Night walks are dangerous; daytime visits are recommended)

Ikawa Lake Ferry

After the thrill and views from the suspension bridge, enjoy a scenic cruise on Ikawa Lake, surrounded by nature. Established in 1958 (Showa 33) to serve residents who lost land access due to the dam, this ferry is now also a beloved tourist attraction—and visitors can ride for free! Board the 'Reiwa Sei' (capacity: 20), and enjoy a luxurious one-hour cruise around the lake (reservation required). Let the gentle lake breeze refresh your soul as you admire the changing seasons.

Address: 599-8 Ikawa, Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City (Ferry Waiting Area)

Phone: 054-260-2505

Operating Hours: Suspended on weekdays and holidays from the second week of December to the third week of April. (Operates on weekends and holidays.)

Reservation: Book via the online reservation site 'Okushizu Batta'.

(https://okushizuoka.comp-re.com/)

3) Warm, Heartfelt Dining: Savor the Bounty of the Mountains in Ikawa

After enjoying outdoor activities, visit the Ikawa Agricultural and Forestry Products Processing Center 'Alps no Sato.' This cozy eatery, warmly run by locals, serves handmade soba, seasonal mountain vegetable tempura, and Dam Curry. Enjoy these simple, comforting local flavors for a relaxing and satisfying analog lunch.