[Niigata, Tagami Town] Learn about and create bamboo art in the bamboo town of Tagami with a bamboo ball production and SDGs experience plan

Bamboo Town - Tagami-ue SDGs Training x Bamboo Art Creation Experience This plan is an experiential SDGs program unique to Tagami Town that "learns" about local issues and "gives shape to that value through experience." The first half is a classroom-style SDGs training session where participants learn from those who have transformed the local issue of abandoned bamboo forests into the town's charm, and the second half is a bamboo art (bamboo ball) creation experience that makes use of the characteristics of bamboo. It is structured so that participants can experience everything from "understanding → touching → creating" rather than just gaining knowledge.

The lecturer will be Daisuke Baba, stationmaster of Tagami Roadside Station. He is a key figure in revitalizing the local community, tackling the issue of abandoned bamboo forests head-on and bringing together townspeople, businesses, schools, and government to create a community that makes the most of bamboo. Based on real success stories from Tagami Town, this training will clearly explain practical ways of thinking and action processes to ensure that the SDGs do not end up as just pretty words. By learning about the challenges faced on the ground, such as the natural environment, a lack of successors, and the utilization of local resources, and the path to solving them, the content will provide an opportunity for people of all ages and positions to think about how to engage with the community.

After the classroom learning, participants will take part in a bamboo ball-making workshop, where they can experience Tagami Town's bamboo culture firsthand. "Takemari" is a traditional craft in which bamboo bark is woven into the shape of a ball. Taking advantage of the light, flexible properties of bamboo, each participant will create their own original bamboo ball. Participants can take their finished work home as it is, allowing them to keep a tangible memory of what they have learned. Staff who can speak English and Chinese will provide careful support so that even those with no experience can enjoy the workshop. First-time participants and visitors from overseas can participate with confidence.