Kamikatsu is a small town on the island of Shikoku, having a population of roughly 1,300. It is situated in the mountainous area of the southeast Shikoku Island with over 80% of its area covered by mountains and forests. In 2003, the town of Kamikatsu became the first municipality in Japan to declare for Zero Waste with the aim to reduce incineration and landfill waste to zero.

Kamikatsu's Mt. Yamainudake is a well-known deciduous primeval forest. The forest is a sanctuary of nature, including large areas of moss-covered rocks making it an important site for biodiversity and conversation. There are 88 statues making it also an important place for cultural heritage.

During the hike, we will take a break to enjoy Awa Bancha tea, an artisan-produced fermented tea made Kamikatsu in Tokushima prefecture of Japan.

Photos © INOW