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 on board. 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. Yoshiko Osada, a JAL Furusato Ambassador who is involved in promoting the charms of Kumamoto.
–What can you tell us about your initiatives?
I am Nagata, JAL Hometown Ambassador for Kumamoto Prefecture.
It has been a year and a half since I returned to my hometown, Kumamoto. I am working to make more people aware of the charms of Kumamoto and to make people think, “I want to go there! I want to make Kumamoto more exciting through activities that will bring smiles to the faces of the local community. I would like to enliven Kumamoto through activities that will bring smiles to the faces of the local community.
This time, we would like to introduce our experience at Forest Adventure Misato, located in Misato-cho, Kumamoto Prefecture.
–What is Forest Adventure?
It is a “nature symbiosis-type outdoor park” where both adults and children can move their bodies with all their might in the great outdoors and play seriously.
There are three courses in total.
An adventure course where you can experience activities 15 meters above the tree line. A canopy course that is slightly less challenging and can be enjoyed by the whole family, from beginners to children. The Zip Trip Course allows participants to cross the Midorikawa Dam, and is popular for corporate training and educational training at schools.
–What are your recommendations?
After all, it is the longest zip slide in Japan!
The length of the walk is 410 meters on the outward side and 510 meters on the return side, giving it an overwhelming sense of scale. It is truly an exhilarating experience to spread your arms out and feel the wind while gazing at the beautiful scenery of the terraced rice fields. It is a truly refreshing experience.
The “Minomushi Chute” on the Adventure Course is also a must-try; it takes a lot of courage to take the first step down the 15-meter vertical descent, but the moment you do, you will feel as if you are one size bigger than you are.
Be sure to take a commemorative photo with a photo prop at the end!
–What is your message to travelers?
This was my first time to experience it, and words cannot express how much fun it was.
I was a little worried about whether I could make it to the end because I don’t do much training on a daily basis, but there were many places that even I could clear. The next day, my muscles ached, but the feeling of comfort and fulfillment was more than enough to make up for it.
Forest Adventure is located all over Japan, but no two are alike. A dynamic and exciting arboreal adventure that can only be experienced in Misato Town. Why don’t you join us for this special experience?
© Source travel watch