I was born and raised in the city, a quintessential urbanite, until the turning point of 2011 – the Great East Japan Earthquake and the Fukushima nuclear disaster. Amid widespread social uncertainty, I sought a place where my young child could grow freely and safely. That journey led us to the pristine forests of western Tanzawa, just about two hours from Tokyo, a land rich in greenery and pure water.
Spending weekends immersed in this abundant nature with my family, I had the privilege of meeting the residents of the Houkizawa region. Through these encounters, I learned of the challenges facing the preservation of the remarkable tea fields and farmland under the ancient Houkisugi – a sacred cedar over 2,000 years old and a National Natural Monument.
Inspired to take on a challenge I had long desired, I began cultivating these lands without chemical pesticides, producing safe and sustainable agricultural products.
Our work in western Tanzawa and Houkizawa began with a dual purpose: to help address the pressing challenges of aging farming communities and abandoned farmland in Japan, and to contribute to regional revitalization through sustainable enterprise. Beyond that, we aim to create employment opportunities that support children in need, linking our efforts to tangible, local contributions toward the SDGs and the alleviation of poverty.
In the tea fields beneath the sacred Houkisugi, guided by the wisdom of local residents, our team – from young innovators to seasoned veterans – has begun restoring neglected farmland. Our inaugural release is a new harvest of the highest-grade tea leaves from 2023, cultivated with care, respect, and without the use of chemicals.
The tea is named Houki Green Tea, in honor of the historic Houkisugi, once revered as the “Treasure Cedar,” symbolizing prosperity and abundance. We invite you to experience this treasure of nature, lovingly nurtured and harvested, in every cup.
Toru Ishizuka
Founder of Glovalex Group