What bamboo teaches us

“Ever since I was little, my family and elders told me that our local bamboo grove was the safest place to take shelter during an earthquake. It wasn’t until later on that I learned why–a reason that I now take to heart as an important reminder. Although each bamboo plant seemingly grows independent from one another, they’re actually all connected underground. Bamboo have special stems called rhizomes, which are linked together, creating lands that are so non-erosive they’re often compared to reinforced concrete. That’s why bamboo can withstand strong earthquakes–because they are all supporting each other. In a world where the challenges are relentless, the wise bamboo reminds us that solidarity is power.”


Yoshihiro Yamagishi is the fourth-generation owner of Taketora, a bamboo company that was established in 1894. The small village of Awa, located just over 45 minutes from Kochi City by car, is home to a unique type of bamboo called torafudake or toratake (tiger bamboo) that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Yoshihiro’s company turns this beautifully-patterned material into all kinds of products including vases and accessories, but also…a fully-functioning electric vehicle! Yoshihiro will be showcasing this truly one-of-a-kind car upon participating in this year’s World Bamboo Congress in Taiwan later this month!

Taketora
https://maps.app.goo.gl/mypkniN7nB19m4jq5
https://www.taketora.co.jp/c/special/english

Read more about Yoshihiro's story here: https://www.facebook.com/visitkochijapan/posts/pfbid02gMUaV9QHX8rwkHkzcLwEgAVj17QFPmt3daT4Cs8mjdV9LMstxAgicuqQxsMNQ5YHl

I also recommend exploring the nearby retro Kure Town if you ever get to visit Yoshihiro in Awa Village: https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10415