A town in the Oki Islands, Ama is a Japanese miniature garden surrounded by the sea, rice fields, and mountains.
Mr. Miyazaki encountered Ama through a seminar while in university. Fascinated by the islanders living with nature, he moved to the town after graduating.
After learning the ropes at a guesthouse, he and his wife now run Miyazaki Service, a private home where couples can experience country living.
The couple moved in from the city, but say there have been nearly no difficulties in island living. He says that the lifestyle on the island, based half on farming and half on fishing, is very well-balanced, with the warmth of people who help out in times of trouble. Mr. Miyazaki hopes that many people will visit to learn more about the charms of life in Ama and on the island.
The house is built in the style of old-style Japanese houses, with a spacious kitchen and a veranda that goes all the way around the structure.
In back is a mountainous primeval forest that offers relaxation, and a small field in the garden. The couple lives with honeybees and seven chickens. Freshly laid eggs can be enjoyed.
They grow rice and vegetables with no pesticides or fertilizers, from a desire for a long and deep relationship with nature with an awareness of the connections among the sea, the mountains, and the fields. The couple are happily working on making processed goods for home use, including miso, soy sauce, and natto.
In addition to agriculture and fisheries, handiwork related to everyday living is part of their livelihood. They make spoons out of wood, beginning with sawing lumber, and grow cotton to spin yarn. Depending on the season, a variety of experiences are available.