Mountainous Keihoku in Kyoto's north is more than 90% woodlands. The drastic temperature differences and the frequent rain and mist are ideal conditions for forestry. For more than 1,200 years the area supported the ancient capital's prosperity, supplying it with raw materials and food supplies. Residents carry on the trades of their ancestors, coexisting with nature. Discover how Keihoku is attracting attention from people wanting to learn the customs of old to build a sustainable future.

The traditional, wooden townhouses built prior to 1950 that dot the downtown area of Kyoto served as both living and work spaces. American Jeff Berglund, university professor and Kyoto tourism ambassador, lives in one built 160 years ago. A Japan resident for 50 years, Berglund aspires to living in harmony with nature. He honors the customs of old that are still practiced today and promotes Japan's culture abroad. Discover the pleasures of living in a Machiya through Berglund's daily encounters.