Do you know about a place called “Yunotsu”? This small hot spring town is a charming place filled with warmth and a unique culture. I was deeply moved by the story of Masako Omi, who was featured in the article, as she and her team are revitalizing the region through their own efforts, creating a welcoming space for many people. It’s truly wonderful to see how the richness of nature and human connections are woven into the fabric of the town. But as I read the article, I couldn’t help but wonder, “How can such a town be built?”
Through art direction, I always strive to create change and move people’s hearts through the power of design. Seeing this case of Yunotsu made me realize new possibilities at the intersection of design and town planning. For example, by embracing Yunotsu’s culture as a traditional healing hot spring destination, we might be able to integrate digital and analog elements in a meaningful way. We could design mechanisms that allow both locals and visitors to share their emotions and experiences.
One idea is to use AR technology to bring children’s drawings of the town to life within the hot spring district. Imagine holding up a smartphone on a street corner and seeing a visual blend of past and present unfold before your eyes. By designing an environment where the warmth of analog and the convenience of digital coexist, simply walking through Yunotsu could become an immersive experience—one where visitors feel like they’ve become a part of the town itself.
I believe there is still so much to learn from Omi’s bold initiative. But if we continue to share perspectives like this, perhaps we can create an even more exciting future. Let’s keep expanding possibilities together through the power of design!