[2026 Roadmap] The Next Chapter in Creating a 'Healing Village' Where Humans and Animals Coexist

Thank you to everyone who always supports Washinmura.

It has been six years since we started our journey with cats, dogs, and goats at a 200-year-old traditional folk house in Futtsu City, Chiba Prefecture.

For Washinmura, 2026 will be a year of great challenge, evolving beyond a mere accommodation facility into a "healing village" where visitors can experience the cycle of life in the satoyama (traditional rural landscape).

Today, we announce our "5 New Developments" that embody our resolutions for 2026.

1. [Creating Landscapes] The long-awaited "Treehouse," a special seat close to the sky, is finally complete

Years in the making. Generously utilizing natural wood, the treehouse has finally appeared, allowing visitors to watch over the life of the satoyama from an elevated perspective. Stepping away from everyday viewpoints, you can now spend time freeing yourself in a "special seat in the sky" while feeling the breath of the trees.

2. [Connecting Lives] Full-scale launch of "Satoyama Dining." Gathering around the fire to savor seasonal flavors

Our familiar cafe will be reborn as "Satoyama Dining" (tentative name), a place to share the blessings of the satoyama.

Enjoying "Satoyama Nabe" (hot pot) and other restorative meals that draw on the vitality of the ingredients while feeling the warmth of the fire. It will become a base for healing, conditioning the mind and body from the inside out.

3. [Nurturing the Environment] Taking on the challenge of a "Circular Farm" without pesticides or herbicides

To protect the safety of the animals roaming freely within the village, we strictly maintain an environment completely free of pesticides and herbicides. In 2026, we are starting a new experimental farm. This project forms the foundation of our village development, nurturing a "circular soil" where both animals and humans can breathe safely.

4. [Passing on Wisdom] "Satoyama Retreat Stay" to sharpen the sensibilities of the next generation

We propose a new value of travel to the next generation, including university students. Discovering the essence of coexistence with nature and life through digital detox, and bringing back the rich "manners" of the satoyama into everyday life. We provide experiences that nurture sensibilities through a proactive resting style.

5. [Giving Shape to Bonds] Sustainable brand development connecting cats, nature, and culture

Our "coexistence and circulation" initiative to protect 16 rescue cats and pass on satoyama culture to the next generation is launching in full scale. As a first step, we are establishing an original goods brand utilizing natural materials.

Currently, through a "preview lucky bag" exclusively for repeat guests, we are exploring new forms of bonds to nurture the future of the satoyama together with everyone.

In the long term, we are also carefully cultivating the concept of a "special community" to share this vision.

[Ongoing until February: Kotatsu and Mikan Festival]

In parallel with these movements toward the future, Washinmura is currently holding the winter-limited "Kotatsu and Mikan Festival." The ultimate digital detox, enjoying sweet local mandarin oranges while feeling the presence of the animals.

We, along with the cats, look forward to seeing you at the further deepened Washinmura in 2026.

Washinmura