"What if we restored the rich ecosystems of the Odai Mountains to their original state, fostering a symbiotic relationship between humans and nature as it once was? This could become a sustainable endeavor, requiring minimal investment but ensuring the preservation of the mountains for generations to come," they ponder.

INTERVIEW Vol. 04  -  Odai cokage

​3/5/2024

---

From 180 miles south-west of Tokyo (similar to the distance from Manhattan to Boston or Philadelphia), located Odai Town in Mie Prefecture, nestled in the mountainous region located in one of the warmer climates in the Kinki region and close to the Ise Jingu grand shrine, a wellknown historical power spot. Covering 93 percent of the town's area, has been a valuable ecosystem in Japan since ancient times, with a diverse range of tree species. It's registered as a UNESCO Eco Park. ​

 *UNESCO Eco Park: Officially known as Biosphere Reserves Established by UNESCO in 1976, Biosphere Reserves aim to harmonize the conservation of ecosystems with sustainable human activities. While "World Heritage Sites" primarily focus on preserving untouched nature, UNESCO Eco Parks aim for the coexistence of nature and human society. As of June 2017, there are a total of 669 areas registered across 120 countries. ​

After World War II, during Japan's reconstruction, the forests, which used to be rich in hundreds of species of trees, have been replaced by mono-vegetation, only two or three species of trees with high use value, such as cedar and cypress, to develop economic activity. As times changed and the economy shifted, forestry became less profitable, and only miserable environment of the mountain that made by the human intervention left. “Odai Cokage ” addresses th e issue and rehabilitates a rich forest environment in line with UNESCO Eco - Park principles.

Their vision?

"What if we restored the rich ecosystems of the Odai Mountains to their original state, fostering a symbiotic relationship between humans and nature as it once was?

​This could become a sustainable endeavor, requiring minimal investment but ensuring the preservation of the mountains for generations to come," they ponder.

Interview with Mr.OKAMOTO

Japanese culture has long revered the utilization of local trees and plants. Have you ever marveled at the serene beauty of a Japanese garden? It's said to have originated from a monk's desire to share the serene beauty of nature he encountered during mountain pilgrimages with others. Japanese gardens are miniature representations of mountain landscapes, where various trees interact harmoniously, tended to by skilled gardeners who meticulously prune branches and even sweepers who collect fallen leaves. ​

 These fallen leaves, if left untouched, decompose, enriching the soil with nutrients. Soil pH balance is crucial for plant growth, with some preferring acidic conditions while others thrive in neutral or alkaline soils. In natural mountain ecosystems, this balance is maintained, but in cultivated gardens, sweepers adjust the environment accordingly. Their meticulous work ensures the compatibility of neighboring trees and promotes a visually stunning garden. ​

Mass production and consumption of trees, planting them where they don't naturally grow, disrupt natural ecosystems, leading to ecological imbalances. Restoring mountains to their original state allows trees and plants to thrive naturally, at minimal cost, making it a truly sustainable initiative. Returning to a state where diverse trees bloom throughout the year promotes biodiversity, facilitating pollination and seed dispersal, ultimately rejuvenating exhausted mountains. ​

"There's a purpose for each of the 500 tree species in the mountains. No tree is unnecessary," passionately expresses Mr. Okamoto, a native of Odai Town. Take, for instance, the "Himeshara" tree, native to Odai, used in the aroma diffuser recently arrived in New York. With its reddish bark, this shrub plays a crucial role in the rejuvenation of deforested areas, acting as a pioneer species. As Himeshara proliferates and stabilizes the soil, other species follow suit, gradually revitalizing the mountains. Thus, Himeshara symbolizes the very essence of mountain energy, embodying robust vitality. ​

"I love gazing upon the sight of Himeshara's delicate white flowers carpeting the mountainside as it begins to regenerate," he shares enthusiastically, vividly describing the scene.

​Closing my eyes, I inhale the aroma diffuser slowly, savoring the aroma. Before me, the picturesque landscape of the Odai Mountains unfolds, even from a long distance.

Now, we would like to introduce the Odai cokage products exhibited and sold
at Brooklyn Beauty Fashion Lab.

SHOP NOW

Aroma Diffuser Himeshara