About Us

“How can we help pass the culture of these islands on to future generations?”

This question inspired us to establish Ritokara Institute.

Although I was not born on Ishigaki Island, life has brought me here, and I now live and work in this remarkable place. Through the many people I have met and the experiences they have shared with me, my appreciation and respect for Okinawa and the Yaeyama Islands have grown deeper every year.

Living here has taught me both the beauty and the challenges of island life. I have also come to understand that the rich cultural traditions of these islands have been preserved through the dedication and hard work of the local people.

Simply admiring these traditions did not feel like enough. I began to ask myself what I could do to help preserve and pass them on to future generations. That question led to the creation of Ritokara Institute.

Even from a remote island, meaningful things can be achieved. In fact, some things can only be achieved because we are here.

Together with the people I have met on these islands—and with visitors from around the world—we continue to take on new challenges and create opportunities to connect culture, community, and people.

Yamamoto Miki
Representative Director
Ritokara Institute