Promoting Peace in Fukuoka with Deeper Japan’s Latest Product Launched in Collaboration with Masahiro Sasaki, Brother of Peace Icon Sadako

This peace-focused guided tour is one of 4 new products released by Deeper Japan in the Kyushu area, including a ramen noodle workshop, a traditional Edomae sushi experience, and a Hakata weaving factory tour.

One of the most well-known stories of hibakusha, or "bomb-affected people," is that of Sadako Sasaki. At just 2 years old during the Hiroshima bombing, Sadako lived only 1.6 km from the epicenter of the explosion and initially survived. However, as she grew older, she began to suffer from the severe after-effects of the bomb's radiation and was eventually hospitalized at age 12. Inspired by a legend that folding origami paper cranes could grant a wish, Sadako dedicated herself to folding crane after crane, hoping for good health, long life, and peace. She passed away in 1955, but her story brought more attention to the horrific consequences of nuclear weapons and made her a symbol of the global peace movement. With Deeper Japan’s most recently developed Fukuoka area products, guests can learn more about Japan’s wartime history and the ongoing need for peace from Sadako’s older brother, Masahiro. Conducted at the Tachiarai Peace Memorial Museum, situated on the site of the former Tachiarai Airfield, looking towards the past in reflection is combined with looking towards the future with hope.

Discussing wartime activities and recollecting history regarding World War II is a complicated topic, with trauma and suffering both inflicted and experienced by all sides involved. However, one thing that can be agreed upon following WWII's conclusion is the absolute need for peace in the world, especially concerning the decades of devastation due to the dropping of the atomic bombs, especially to civilians. While Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Museum and Park remain the most-well known location for reflecting on the impact of the atomic bomb in Japan, visitors can now learn new perspectives on Japanese history and peace activities in Fukuoka as well.

Masahiro Sasaki: Loving Brother and Peace Activist

Born on July 24, 1941, in Hiroshima City, Masahiro Sasaki was still just a child when he and his family were exposed to the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945. hLocated in Kusunoki-cho, Hiroshima, at the time, just 1.6 kilometers from the hypocenter, Masahiro, his sister Sadako, their mother, and their grandmother, were all exposed to the bombing. The following day, his father also entered the city and was exposed to atomic radiation. The family later relocated to Fukuoka Prefecture, where Masahiro has remained until this day. Following his sister’s passing at the age of 12 years old, and her story being used as a symbol of global peace movements, Masahiro has devoted his life to spreading her message.

A Message from Masahiro Sasaki

“Sadako’s story has spread across the world through novels, picture books, and different types of media. I’m pleased that the message contained within Sadako’s folded paper cranes has been conveyed to audiences all over the world, and that the image of Sadako and her paper cranes has become equated to symbols of peace. In this tour, I am honored to share the true story of Sadako, which has not been widely known until now, and to convey her real thoughts. I look forward to meeting people from around the world through Deeper Japan. May the world be filled with peace, hope, and happiness.”

— Masahiro Sasaki

Expanding Operation in Fukuoka

In addition to the private guided tour with peace icons, Deeper Japan has also developed 3 other Japanese cultural experiences to be offfered in the Kyushu area, bringing the total number of products available in the Kyushu area to over 20.

Deeper Japan, a service operated by Deeper Travel Co., Ltd that provides online reservations for traditional cultural experiences for inbound visitors to Japan, works in direct collaboration with artisans, artists, and nature guides from areas all across Japan. By uncovering hidden local traditions and transforming them into high-quality, value-added experiences, Deeper Japan’s business model not only makes these offerings accessible to inbound travelers but also encourages them to explore a wider range of areas and extend their stays due to the creation of high-quality, value-added cultural products.

The Latest Cultural Experiences Launched

**Edo-Mae Sushi Meets Kita-Kyushu Catches**
At this Michelin-rated sushi restaurant, led by a 3rd-generation sushi master, the typically Kanto Edo-mae style is transported to the shores of Kyushu, where the chef combines a longstanding culinary tradition with local Kyushu fish and flavors. Under careful guidance, learn how to make Edo-mae sushi and enjoy creations made by both you and the chef after the workshop ends.

**Hand-Pulled Ramen Noodle Making**
Joined by a professional chef, enjoy the process of perfecting your noodles from start to finish, all the way to a final meal made from your very own creations. As you cook, discover more about the secrets behind making Japanese noodles and how these noodle connoisseurs create a delicious product crafted fresh, every day.

**Hakata Weaving Workshop**
A textile developed over 800 years ago in the Kamakura period that remains praised even in modern times for its artistry and durability, Hakata-ori weaving is a living art. Most often woven into men's kimono obi belts, Hakata-ori weaving features elaborate patterns and Buddhist philosophy, as was highly beloved by samurai during the Edo Period - but the heritage continues into contemporary times at this Fukuoka factory.

Facing the Future:

Beyond expanding the range of cultural experiences and masterclasses offered in Japan, including the latest round of development in Kyushu, Deeper Travel currently is planning operation advancement into overseas markets, with an initial focus on Europe and other East Asian countries.

By implementing the current business model of Deeper Japan, which emphasizes bridging language and cultural differences to deliver enriching travel experiences, high-quality, value-added travel infrastructure can be created in new locations and offer a wider audience a broader range of cultural products.

About Deeper Japan

Deeper Japan is a brand operated by Deeper Travel Co., Ltd that allows visitors to Japan to seamlessly book traditional cultural experiences that are otherwise difficult to access. By carefully selecting high-quality cultural and immersive natural experiences, and directly collaborating with skilled craftsmen and artists at the forefront, Deeper Japan promotes mutual understanding between different cultures through travel and actively preserves tradition and diversity.

Focus is primarily given to small groups of guests, providing an opportunity for deeper interaction between craftsmen and guests rather than large-scale, superficial experiences. Additionally, certified interpreter guides are employed to ensure interpretation in the guests' native languages whenever possible. Approximately 80 percent of Deeper Japan's clientele comprises independent travelers from Europe, the United States, and Australia.

Through partnerships with non-profit organizations, collaborations with NGOs, and alliances with local governments and tourist associations, Deeper Japan assists in supporting regional economic development and the conservation of cultural heritage.