Iida and Shibuya resume community exchange after six-year hiatus

In Iida City, Nagano Prefecture, an exchange program between local residents and Shibuya Ward, Tokyo, is set to resume for the first time in six years. On October 10 and 11, 35 visitors from Shibuya will participate in activities including forest maintenance, making gohei-mochi, apple picking, and traditional craft experiences.

The Shibuya Forest Exchange, which began in 2000, focuses on greening efforts. Participants will help maintain trees planted decades ago, such as oak and chestnut trees that have grown to nearly 10 meters in height.

Separately, in Nagoya, interest remains in historical sites like the Toyotomi Museum and Nagoya Castle. Nagoya Castle is facing ongoing delays in its main keep restoration project due to complexities involving barrier-free access, cultural property protection, and administrative procedures. Additionally, the castle's admission fee is scheduled to increase from 500 yen to 1,000 yen on October 1.