It’s a hot summer, but let’s cool down with a topic from winter.
Between 2020 and 2024, I had the opportunity to collaborate in various ways with the “Yaeyama Islands Lifestyle College” project organized by the Yaeyama Visitors Bureau. The Yaeyama Islands Lifestyle College is a project primarily focused on sharing in-depth local information and interesting facts about the area through Instagram and printed materials. This time, between February 7th and 9th, we actually participated in promoting the college at the Snow Festival in Kitami City, Hokkaido. I joined for two days. In addition to attending the booth, we also held a local Yaeyama Island Life College “Yuntaku” workshop. Since I was once a student of the College, I was responsible for presenting the island’s language. While introducing the beautiful nature and unique culture of Yaeyama, I touched upon some of the characteristics of “Sumamuni,” the dialect of Ishigaki Island. Around 50 people, from children to elderly, participated in the five workshops. After my talk about the heritage language, everyone enjoyed a salt-making experience.
There were many other events and activities in the snow, and the outdoor Mame Maki (candy throwing) event was very popular. Thanks to the collaboration with the Bureau and prefectural staff, it turned out to be a great event. Also, the support from the Kitami City Snow Festival organizers and the city hall staff was excellent. It was a heartwarming two days in the cold (-7°C!) weather. I also had the pleasure of trying many delicious foods from Hokkaido, including donuts.
