What Makes Tacomepai Special

Practicing Natural Farming

Natural farming, as pioneered by Fukuoka, is an ecological approach that encourages minimal intervention in the natural growth and development of plants. For this reason, it’s often called the “Zen method of agriculture.” Pure applies these very principles in his work at Tacomepai. The rice fields he cultivates are the result of nearly three years of persistent practice.

Pure told me that his first harvests yielded very little, and some were almost total losses, because the soil was still in the process of recovering. Over time, however, he began to witness the benefits of this method. I could sense the deep love he has for his rice fields. One afternoon, while we were sitting together drinking tea, I asked him if he had ever spoken to the plants he grows. Pure smiled and said that almost every day, he goes out to watch and whisper to his rice.

Experience of Building an Eco-House

The houses and structures at Tacomepai are primarily built using natural or recycled materials – mud, bamboo, wood, leaves, and eco-bricks. Conventional building materials such as cement, concrete, and steel are kept to a minimum and are used only when absolutely necessary.

Sharing Knowledge, Culture, and Cuisine

At Tacomepai, almost every day brings volunteers from all over the world. Thanks to this, Pure has learned to prepare many new and interesting dishes. During my stay, I had the chance to taste Thai, Japanese, French, and Chinese cuisine – all vegetarian, of course, and most ingredients come directly from the farm. I also showed everyone how to make Vietnamese vegetarian pho.

Beyond cooking, we would sit together and share stories about our experiences, our cultures, and even the history of our countries, exchanging knowledge and perspectives from around the world.

During my days at Tacomepai, I had the wonderful opportunity to learn so many new and exciting things, like:

• Making soap from soap nuts
• Creating activated charcoal
• Sowing seeds and planting new crops
• Discovering countless new plants and learning about their uses

Every little experience felt warm and meaningful, as if each task was not just a skill to learn, but a way to connect more deeply with the land, the plants, and the people around me.

Living Slowly, Simply, Close to Nature

Tacomepai is always quiet. Close your eyes, and you can clearly hear the insects, the rustling leaves in the wind, and even the rhythm of your own breathing.

Life at Tacomepai moves slowly and peacefully. There is no rush, no worry, no competition, no crowding. It is a world for those who long to stand before nature and reflect on their own hearts.

The days at Tacomepai were filled with misty mornings, perfectly silent; golden afternoons where sunlight filtered gently through the trees; nights where the wind whispered endlessly to the leaves; and soft footsteps accompanied by shared stories. I know I will return to this place, and I will visit many others, to live fully and to listen deeply.