Matsuzaki Town
Fumihiko Saito

Town development in Matsuzaki’s way taking advantage of sea, mountain and rich nature of the town

Here is a small port town in the remote countryside, but formerly sericulture was thriving and there was also the era that was known throughout the country for its high quality. Furthermore, the deep-sea fishing had been also thrived, and there were many people who were looking at the ocean and the wide world while chasing the bonito. In that sense, in my childhood, there were many innovative adults who have wide view.
The key industries of Matsuzaki are tourism and agriculture, forestry and fishing, but there is a concept called “Matsuzaki Furusato (Hometown) Nature Experience School” in considering the future of the town. This is a stay-over type program that the townspeople become a lecturer and provide experiences of a variety of activities for tourists who come from outside, taking advantage of the rich natural resources in Matsuzaki, such as the sea and the mountains. In fact in Matsuzaki, some people are living as canoeing and snorkeling guides. Even if there are no big companies, the town development in Matsuzaki’s way may be possible.
When we are stuck or change of pace, the sea is the best. When I paddle my favorite canoe on the sea or look at the sea dyed golden by a setting sun in front of my eyes, I feel better soon. Although it is said that ingredients of seawater and amniotic fluid are similar, I think that’s true. Speaking of beautiful scene of Matsuzaki for me, it is the setting sun and the flower fields. I really want to go to work in a canoe, but I can’t because it’s a serious problem if I have something accident. He laughs.
There is “The 10 greatest of joy in my life” inside of me. In my childhood, I picked up something as a rock in the ocean, but it was actually a big turban shell. That was an unforgettable joy. Such happy memory on childhood will always shine in the heart. Considering the future of Matsuzaki, I think it’s important that we hand down the town to posterity while always thinking “Way of Matsuzaki”. Although it is difficult by one person, we can do it as a whole. And the ultimate purpose is that each and every residents shine in the town of Matsuzaki. I think it is important.

Interviewed in July, 2016
Writer : Hideko Takahashi / Photographer : Hiroyuki Tamura