Living Station
Living Station: Kurashi Station
Purpose of Kurashi Station
Kurashi Station (meaning Living Station) in Furano is a thoughtful response to Japan’s aging population. In a country increasingly filled with silver-haired citizens, Kurashi Station aims to shake things up a bit. It seeks to get locals thinking about community engagement and the importance of social ties. Rooted in the principles of interdisciplinary gerontology—yes, that’s a mouthful—it tackles the myriad issues that come with aging. Here, they’re not just looking to provide services; they’re crafting a lifestyle that accommodates the evolving needs of older residents. So naturally, there’s a cafe!
Furano Citizen Guardianship Center
At the heart of this initiative is the Furano Citizen Guardianship Center, a place dedicated to the noble cause of helping people age in place. Imagine a sanctuary where older adults can maintain their independence while staying firmly connected to their community. The emphasis on aging in place means ensuring that folks can live their lives with dignity, surrounded by friends, family, and caring neighbors. Workshops, social events, and resources abound, empowering seniors to maintain their quality of life while continuing to contribute to the community around them.
This central spot makes it easily accessible for all, reinforcing its role as a vibrant community hub that fosters connection, creativity, and care. It’s a testament to how a simple station can become a cornerstone of community life.
Community Amenities and Activities
- Cafe and Waiting Room: The cafe and waiting room at Kurashi Station are welcoming havens, offering a cozy spot for a good cup of coffee and a hearty chat. It’s more than just a cafe; it’s a gathering place where friendships blossom over steaming mugs.
- Filming Location: What’s more, Kurashi Station has taken on a bit of celebrity status as a filming location for popular Japanese dramas like From the North Country and Wind Garden. People flock here, eager to experience the magic of the screen in real life.
- Reusing Vacant Stores: This initiative goes beyond mere coffee. They’ve cleverly repurposed vacant stores into vibrant community spaces, breathing life back into the local economy. These areas now host gatherings, art exhibits, and workshops, ensuring that every nook and cranny is buzzing with activity.
- One-Day Chef Events: And then there are the “one-day chef” events—imagine local culinary talents strutting their stuff in pop-up style. These unique culinary experiences serve up an array of flavors, pulling in both locals and adventurous visitors alike.
One Visitor’s Experience
One intrepid visitor, drawn by the allure of Kurashi Station’s fame, recounted a delightful experience at the cafe. Arriving just a whisker before opening time, they were pleasantly surprised to be welcomed by the owner, who waved them in like an old friend. This gesture set the tone for a charming visit. With rich coffee in hand and a cozy atmosphere enveloping them, the visitor struck up a conversation with Mr. Watanabe, a regular patron whose stories added a delightful layer to the experience.
Eager for a repeat performance, the visitor looked forward to an upcoming trip, hoping to return to this cafe that had made such a lasting impression. They reminisced about their first visit years ago, when they forged a connection with Mr. U, the owner, and found a lively camaraderie. Though subsequent visits were occasionally thwarted by closures, the fond memories of a warm, inviting atmosphere lingered.
Over the years, this visitor had traveled extensively, shifting from seeking out specific eateries to simply soaking in the breathtaking surroundings. Now, as they prepared for their first return in four years, their focus was on embracing the stunning landscapes, with a hopeful eye on revisiting the cafe—if only for the ambiance.
- Address: 18-5 Suehirocho, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0011