（Introduction of the Hitoyoshi Kuma story）

This era is called “The 700 years of Sagara”. This era made “Conservative and enterprising culture”.　

～Hitoyoshikuma is The richest hidden village in Japan.～

The lord Sagara governed the Hitoyoshi-Kuma area during this period. This area is surrounded by the mountains of Kyushu, which are very steep. He made great use of the advantageous terrain and did not allow enemies to invade. He kept it safe for 700 years, and this is why people call this era “Sagara 700 years”.

In this era, all the members of the community, from the lord to the common people, participated in strengthening their community. Many Buddha statues, and shrines were built and many important and enjoyable cultural traditions were developed, like “kagura”, sacred music and dance performed at shrines. In addition, the enterprising people of this area absorbed new foreign cultures which led to a culture of unique foods and games, and an improved transportation network.

Throughout all of Japan, this is the only area where we even now see and experience both a spirit of protecting traditions and innovation is alive. Ryotaro Shiba, a famous Japanese novelist, said that “The hidden gems of these villages are the most beautiful in Japan”.