菅原 伸悟 Sugawara MUDO Shingo
Director of ZION FARM, an organic farm community on Awaji Island
Bio
Sugawara MUDO Shingo was born in Saitama in 1979, and is a father of four. He has managed clubs in Roppongi and Shibuya, and planned and produced over 3,000 events. In 2007 he established mojito Inc., and managed music labels, artists, and cultural figures. In 2008 he launched the Zion Project and started splitting his time between Nagano and Tokyo, growing rice and soybeans. After the earthquake in 2011, he moved to Awaji Island with his family and friends, and began an agricultural life community, Zion Farm (farm, campsite, café, and processing center), practicing DIY and sustainable lifestyle as much as possible. In 2022, he established the Awaji Island BIO Association which organizes organic farmer’s markets with the aim of making Awaji Island produce completely organic.
Message
We operate a campground and cafe while growing organic vegetables, rice, and fruit trees on Awaji Island, a land of rich nature and the setting for national myths. Since moving to Awaji Island 11 years ago, we have made many connections and met many people who are doing wonderful activities. Together we host a retreat where you can experience the organic food, clothing, and traditions of Awaji Island. The retreat includes an indigo dyeing experience with our partner the Awaji AI Land Project, covering everything from indigo cultivation to fermentation and dyeing. There is also a tour of Onokoroshizuku Shio, where you can learn how salt is traditionally made. At the farm, we will harvest organic vegetables, and you can enjoy the local food and atmosphere of the island around a bonfire and glamping. We hope you can rest your mind and body while visiting us.
Guide Q&A
Q: What is your most memorable experience in nature?
Aurora Borealis seen during a filming trip to the U.S., and seeing the rays of light from the morning sun from a fishing boat on Awaji Island.
Q: What does nature represent to you?
An absolute must to teach us both the joys and hardships of life.
Q: What has nature taught you?
Humanity is quite small, and to have a grateful heart
Q: What do you hope that people will get out of experiences with you as a guide?
I hope you will feel gratitude for nature, food, life, as well as gratitude for the things we cannot see, such as microorganisms.
