Directly Experiencing Nature: the Japan Nature Game Association

"Sharing Nature" is a series of activities created by Joseph Cornell, an American naturalist, to experience nature using the five senses. In Japan, these activities are called "Nature Games." One well-known game is the Micro-Hike, which explores the tiny world beneath our feet using a magnifying glass and string. One of the characteristics of Nature Games is that participants can enjoy the various expressions of nature without having any specialized knowledge.

The Japan Nature Game Association opened the Togakushi Nature School in Togakushi Heights, Nagano Prefecture in April 2000. The school offers Nature Game programs throughout the year to enhance people's enjoyment of the area's magnificent natural heritage.

Summer programs include one in which participants go and find a place to sleep in the forest and spend the night alone. Many participants who experience the unforgettable thrill and excitement of this program and its contrast with their everyday life come back every year.

Nature Games are not only fun to play, but also involve learning how to experience nature. These hands-on activities can play an important role in promoting harmonious co-existence between nature and humans.

http://www.sharingnature.com/

Posted: 2004/06/14 11:45:06 AM
Japanese version