A Community in the Sky

High in the mountains of Tokushima Prefecture on Japan's Shikoku Island are small communities known as "sora." The residents enjoy a way of life that values both self-sufficiency and mutual cooperation. Hisayabu is one such place. Located about 600 meters above sea level, it's known as "a village of hydrangeas" for its 6,000 flowering bushes. The 20 or so residents share a close bond nurtured by working together on tasks such as harvesting, securing fresh water, and preparing for their annual hydrangea festival. Hisayabu's natural beauty and lively spirit inspires younger people living elsewhere to come back and help keep the community going.