JAL, which has bases throughout Japan, has been continuously implementing regional revitalization initiatives (currently the “JAL Furusato Project”), and in August 2020 launched the “JAL Furusato Ambassadors,” cabin crew members selected through an in-house recruitment process who move to the area to promote initiatives in their respective regions. In December of the same year, JAL appointed “JAL Hometown Cheering Troops” who are involved in regional revitalization while serving as flight attendants. The aim is to develop products and solve regional issues for hometowns and other regions with which they have connections, utilizing the knowledge they have accumulated as flight attendants.
We interviewed Ms. Naho Hidaka, a JAL Furusato Ambassador who is involved in promoting the cycling path in Wakayama Prefecture.
–What can you tell us about your initiatives?
Shirahama Seaside Illumination “SHIRARAHAMA LIGHT PARADE by FeStA LuCe” started on October 28 in Shirahama Town, Wakayama Prefecture.
For approximately four months until February 29, 2024, a 620-meter stretch of white sand beach at Shirara Beach will be decorated with light and sound, creating an immersive space.
The production weaves together light and atmosphere with quiet music, and every 15 minutes for about 3 minutes, the Shirarahama beach in winter is colored by energetic music and colorful lighting effects.
–How are you involved in this effort?
I have been appointed as a “Kumaiichi Ambassador,” a PR ambassador for “Kumaiichi,” a cycling path that circles the Nanki-Kumano region, to promote the appeal of the Kinan region of Wakayama Prefecture and to attract visitors to the area.
I visited the Nanki Shirahama Tourist Association to tell you about the “Light Parade” and its charms, which was started in the hope that those who stayed at the hotel would not only stay at the inn but also experience the good qualities of the town. I was healed by the fusion of the sound of waves and music, and moved by the beauty of the illumination and the starlit sky.
A five-minute walk from the beach is the Yanagibashi Ashiyu (footbath). You can watch the beautiful illumination while warming up.
If you get hungry, head to the “Shirahama Ginza Shopping Street” next door. There you will find a variety of restaurants, from authentic meals to izakaya (Japanese style pubs) and B-class gourmet food.
–What are your future plans and prospects?
Shirahama Town offers a variety of events. Have you heard about the car event using the runway and the T-shirt art exhibition? At the end of the year, countdown fireworks and New Year’s soba noodles will be served.
We will continue to introduce initiatives that will allow visitors to enjoy the beach not only during the summer bathing season, but also throughout the year.
–What is your message to travelers?
Shirahama Beach is famous for swimming in the sea. Shirahama Onsen is one of the three oldest hot springs in Japan, along with Arima and Dogo, and has a history of over 1,350 years, and has many things to be proud of, such as its “excellent spring quality” that is highly effective in treating the skin, and its “beautiful location” with a view of the sea. Each of the footbaths scattered throughout the area also has different spring qualities, which is unique to Shirahama. Shirahama is also famous for its seafood. Please enjoy the collaboration of the sound of waves, music, and light with the night breeze in the healing Nanki-Shirahama.
© Source travel watch