One of the posts received 2,200+ engagements (sum of likes, comments and shares), which is the highest result Jarman International has achieved since the start of social media promotions several years ago. 

Moving forward, we hope to continue to spread the word about our clients, not only in an effective but also meaningful way.

Next year in 2025, Earth Celebration will be held from August 22nd to 24th. I hope you join us!

Photo credit: Maiko Miyagawa

The post Jarman International’s social media promotion team achieved 2,200+ engagements on a single Facebook post about world-renowned taiko troupe, Kodo appeared first on Jarman International KK.

In a partnership with Earth Celebration’s team, Jarman International is sending five media and travel professionals to help spread the word about the event, as well as develop tour ideas for next year. You can learn about each member below.

Ruth Marie Jarman – Jarman International CEO

The team’s trip to Sado Island will be led by Jarman International CEO, Ruth Marie Jarman, who will be joining Earth Celebration for the second time. 

“I feel that Japan has come into an era of true internationalization. If we think in terms of surfing, we saw the wave approaching from around 10+ years ago and now we are on that wave, trying to get enough balance to stand up and actually ride it. More companies are looking at how they can create better lines of communication between increasingly diverse teams. Regions and towns are going into much more detail about how to express their great worth to every visitor, and the concept of Kuleana (the Hawaiian word for ‘a sense of responsibility’) in tourism is gaining ground. I hope that Jarman International can support the fundamental changes going on in Japan with kindness, laughter and effective strategy. Japan is a very exciting place right now and it will surely stay that way for the foreseeable future.”

“As for Earth Celebration, I am extremely excited about visiting Sado after about five years. I still remember being in complete awe when I caught sight of Sado’s towering mountains from the ferry for the first time, and feeling speechless by Kodo’s dynamic performances. The beat of the drums and the community vibe of love that permeates the island during the festival are two of the biggest draws for me. This time, I will be taking my orange car named Mikan to help me explore this place in a way I have never done before.”

John Daub – Creator and producer of the ONLY in JAPAN YouTube series

Creator and producer of the ONLY in JAPAN YouTube series (630,000+ total subscribers across two channels), John Daub, will also participate in Earth Celebration for the second time. After his first visit, John released an episode on his main channel, capturing the inspiring story of Kodo’s drummers. You can watch it HERE. 

As a former NHK World reporter from 2008 to 2023, John has now lived in Japan for 25+ years with a YouTube career spanning over 15. He is also an inbound tourism contributor to TBS Hiruobi, having worked with a numerous companies including LIXIL, JTB, etc. 

During the pandemic, John crowdfunded 100,000 dollars with his community to help family-run firework companies hire workers in Akita, Niigata and Nagano prefectures when summer festivals were getting canceled nationwide. 

“Knowing how Earth Celebration was challenged over the pandemic without a regular audience, it will be the first event at full strength with tourism back at 2019 levels. Kodo’s music has always brought people together, collaborating with sounds from around the world. This weekend is going to be a smash hit!”

Laura Pollacco – Freelance writer and photographer

Through her experience living in Japan for over four years, freelance photojournalist, Laura Pollacco, has published articles in a variety of media including the Japan Times, Tokyo Weekender, Metropolis and more. She has offered her insightful, positive, and fun writing abilities on a variety of Jarman International projects, from posting on the Yonezawa ABC social media pages to revamping our newly-owned Deep Japan website (currently in the works). 

“My role in Japan is to share the stories of people, places and experiences that aren’t often seen. It is an immense privilege to help bring attention to these stories, and through my small contribution, I hope I can increase awareness on just how much there is waiting to be discovered here. I want to spread awareness as authentically as possible, finding true joy in the stories I cover so that if I recommend it, you know it’s because I believe in it.”

“I’m excited to head to Earth Celebration and explore an area of Japan I have never visited before. I am particularly looking forward to joining in with the festivities, listening to the music, and taking part in the workshops. For me, festivals in Japan create an atmosphere of joy and wonderment, allowing anyone to take part and learn something new. I am thrilled to be joining Earth Celebration this year!”

Sébastien Duval – Business development manager and experienced tour guide in Japan

As a business development manager and consultant for the media and travel agency, Japan Travel KK, Sébastien helps Japanese ministries, prefectures, cities and businesses in the event, tourism and hospitality industries based on 20 years in Japan and stays across 20 countries. The goal is to help revitalize local economies and fight depopulation through job creation, and promote long stays to internationals.  

“I love Japan for its fascinating culture, outdoor hot springs, diverse hiking grounds (from arctic Hokkaido to tropical Okinawa), and I’m particularly grateful to the incredible artisans and farmers who have taught me so much. I value diversity, inclusivity, sustainability, regeneration, and plant-based lifestyles.”

“Years ago, I attended Earth Celebration on my own, and those sets of concerts remain my top event memory in Japan. The music was amazing, but I was even more impressed by the traditional costumes, community vibe and overall energetic atmosphere. This year, I am looking forward to the aspect of Earth Celebration that I think makes it very special: the guest musicians. It will be very fun to experience the Ugandan group play an instrument I’ve never seen or heard before.”

“Regarding the trip to Sado Island itself, I am eager to try the water activities, including night kayaking and riding the tarai-bune (traditional wash tub boat). These new experiences will make the trip a real adventure!”

Swastika Harsh Jajoo – Manager for F-ATRAs (Futaba Area Tourism Research Association)

Swastika has been in Japan for the last six years, spending her time mostly as a student, enrolled first in a short-term exchange program in Fukuoka Women’s University and later in a Master’s and PhD at Tohoku University. She is still part of the PhD program, working towards a degree in Linguistics, while also working as a manager for F-ATRAs (Futaba Area Tourism Research Association) in inbound tourism, marketing and translation. You can read more about her story below. 

“In 2021, I had the opportunity to visit Futaba in the coastal region of Fukushima, a town I only knew of as a ‘disaster-impacted area’. The event that I took part in was called the ‘Town Story Walking Tour’, a specially-curated tour based on the interviews of hundreds of townspeople. It helped to humanize the area for me, and as a poet and storyteller myself, telling stories of people that occupied these towns before the evacuation orders were passed was as important as talking about the disaster itself. My attention was drawn to how we frame narratives when we talk about disaster resilience, and I was fortunate to be offered an internship with F-ATRAs.”

“After interning here for 3 years, I started working full-time for the organization from October 2023, which is also when I decided to take a temporary break from my PhD program. It is my sincere hope to be able to engage in community-building here by being honest to my story and the stories of people I meet.”

“My biggest motivation to move to Japan was Japanese–I started studying the language for the first time as part of the short-term exchange program in Fukuoka, and noticed how learning a new language that was so different from my own helped me rediscover my own self. I’ve moved cities and schools so many times in India that I think I was able to build a real sense of stability for myself only after moving to Japan.”

“Currently, my goals are to work on inbound tourism in Fukushima and also try to complete my PhD degree. Alongside, I want to keep experimenting with poetry and food, the two defining elements of my life. I also had the opportunity to teach Japanese to international children, and want to stay engaged with language education. I think all of my efforts, whether it be regarding tourism or language, are centered on sharing what I love with the world.”

“I think it’s really cool that Earth Celebration is organized by the taiko drumming group Kodo. In Futaba, we have a taiko group called Shineha Sendan Daiko that managed to stay together despite being forced into evacuation, so I’m generally in awe of the sense of unity that taiko groups display. I also find it very inspiring how the festival focuses on environmental awareness and sustainability, and also seeks to combine local, traditional art with international forms. I’m very excited about the drumming workshops and ‘Shukusai: Sunset Finale Harbour Concert’! This is going to be my first time on Sado Island so I’m ready to just take it all in.”

Photo credits of Kodo photos by Maiko Miyagawa and Takashi Okamoto.

The post Jarman International sends five media and travel professionals to Sado Island (Niigata Prefecture) to promote and develop future tours related to the annual Earth Celebration music festival hosted by world-class taiko ensemble, Kodo appeared first on Jarman International KK.

(Seisuiji Temple on Sado Island)

Jarman International is actively involved in showcasing Sado Island, Japan, by featuring it in a Japan Today article. “Winter in Sado: A reflective trip to an isle of surprises” highlights the island’s winter beauty and accessibility from Niigata Prefecture. Renowned for unique accommodations such as Hananoki and Andante, Sado Island offers an immersive experience with local cuisine, crafts, and natural wines. The article, developed with Jarman International’s support, invites international visitors to explore Sado Island’s rich history. Landmarks, museums, and traditional shipbuilders’ settlements tell the island’s story, adding depth to the travel experience.

(Kyomachi Street in Aikawa on Sado Island)

Our Customer Relations Lead, Akane, comments on the island’s seasonal diversity: “While Sado is synonymous with summer, marked by the famous ‘Kodo’ drummers and ‘Earth Celebration’, it also offers a majestic winter experience. This includes the Sea of Japan’s culinary delights, unique townscapes, and skiing opportunities.” Based on these insights, Chiara, our Director of Project Management, provides an in-depth look at these winter attractions in the article. Read the full article on Japan Today for more on this captivating winter destination.

(Daira Ski Area on Sado Island)

As dedicated supporters and partners of Sado Island, we aim to inspire international residents and visitors to discover a different side of Japan by choosing Sado Island for their next adventure.

Furthermore, the Sado Island Earth Celebration, a vibrant music festival celebrating the island’s rich cultural heritage, is scheduled for August 16-18, 2024. To learn more and experience Sado Island’s unique charm, visit the festival’s official website at Sado Island Earth Celebration.

The post Jarman International Spotlights Sado Island in Japan Today appeared first on Jarman International KK.

Kodo, the world-famous taiko performing arts ensemble based on Sado Island held their first-ever online version of their Earth Celebration music festival.

The number of participants worldwide tuning in was higher than ever, and we were honored to help with this groundbreaking online event to bring Sado Island and Kodo to the world. Similarly, we continue bringing you views, sounds and stories of Japan from our YouTube channel “Japan Travel Stories.” Tune in to listen to calming stories written by our CEO, Ruth Jarman, narrated by Chiara Terzuolo and produced/edited by Hana Shiraishi (For their profiles, please check JI Team page).

Our next video is set to be a mystical one about the Lady of Shimantogawa River Valley in Kochi! Please stay tuned.

★Sado Island Rhythms | Japan Travel Stories

★To subscribe “Japan Travel Stories,” click the link here and prepare to relax! : Japan Travel Stories

Our channel concept is;
“Sit back, relax and travel with your imagination, listening to short stories about Japan. No need to buy a plane ticket or worry about scary viruses, we want to bring you a little taste of Japan as a peaceful moment of zen for your day.”

The post Feel the peaceful enchantment of Sado Island virtually via our latest Japan Travel Stories video: “Sado Island Rhythms.” appeared first on Jarman International KK.

EC is also one of the biggest events for Japan’s top taiko, “drum” troupe, Kodo（鼓童）. Out of curiosity we wondered, what their daily lifestyle is like for them?

To discover the secret day-to-day life routines of the Kodo drummers, You can check out the video by YouTube creator and producer, John Daub.

★The Life of a Japanese Drummer | The KODŌ Story ／太鼓奏者の日常｜鼓童 ★ ONLY in JAPAN (オンリー・イン・ ジャパン)

★To subscribe the John’s channel, click the link here for more incredible content co come!
ONLY in JAPAN * John Daub

FYI, Earth Celebration 2021 will be held from August 20th (Fri) to August 22nd (Sun).
More details will be announced in April 2021!

★For more information about Earth Celebration, please visit their official site here: Earth Celebration

We look forward to seeing great taiko performance in Sado next summer!

★If you miss Earth Celebration 2020, you can check the performances on the Earth Celebration YouTube channel below!  (Available until the end of September)
The Earth Celebration YouTube Channel

The post Endlessly Experience the Amazing Passions of This Japanese Drum Performance! John Daub Shows Us the Secret Powers of Kodo Drum Performances! appeared first on Jarman International KK.

This year, the event is taking place ONLINE for free through a livestream on the Earth Celebration YouTube channel from August 21st to the 23rd!

The theme for this new EC look is “Connect with the World on Sado Island.”

Earth Celebration 2020 ONLINE

■WHEN: August 21st to the 23rd
■WHERE: Online Event
Main Program: “Earth Celebration Channel”
7 hours streaming (from 2 pm to 9 pm) for 3 days in a row
■Programs: Timetable is available from HERE.
■COST: Free!

There are also other events such as “EC Online Market,” “Online Workshops,” that will be held!
Please enjoy this wonderful 3-day “Connecting to the world from Sado!” music festival!

★Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the Earth Celebration YouTube channel below and stay tuned★
The Earth Celebration YouTube Channel

★For more information about Earth Celebration, please visit their official site here: Earth Celebration

One of Japan’s top YouTubers, John Daub, recently interviewed the team behind this year’s Online 2020 Earth Celebration to talk about all the amazing taiko performances and content that will be streamed during the three-day music festival!

A Music Festival that isn’t Canceled in Japan | EARTH CELEBRATION 2020 | ONLY in JAPAN * GO

The post Only 5 More Days Until the Earth Celebration! appeared first on Jarman International KK.

Our partner, Sado Tourism Association has released a great video to show how they are trying to fit into that new normal life. Please click the link HERE.

The video shows how Sado Island is taking steps against COVID-19. Translated with English subtitles, it explains how each facility on the island conducts a temperature check for visitors, shows how to enjoy riding traditional “Tarai-Boat” and how to play the Taiko, or Japanese drums, while adhering to social distancing, etc. It’s clear in the video that the people of the island are trying their best to make visitors feel at ease wherever they are on Sado Island with this new normal lifestyle.

Sado Island has had many collaborations with our company, such as “Earth Celebration” and other events. We were so impressed with their video, that we, too, are very much looking forward to visiting the island again sometime soon!

The post Check Out This Video to See How Sado Island Takes Steps Against COVID-19! appeared first on Jarman International KK.

The post Jarman sends Third Consulting Dream Team to Sado Island appeared first on Jarman International KK.

Run by the famous taiko drum group Kodo, for over three decades this huge drum festival has brought music lovers from across Japan and the world to the shores of Sado Island in Niigata prefecture, just an hour or so by ferry from nearby Niigata City.

The chance to hear these incredible artists play their huge Taiko drums up close and personal is just one of the reason music lovers flock to Japan’s longest running music festival.

Each year the group invites musicians from around the world to perform at the Harbour Market stage, bringing together artists and festivalgoers alike through the power of music.

For the 2019 edition, the Kodo drummers will be collaborating with the acclaimed Korean percussion ensemble Kim Duk-Soo SamulNori.

Besides music, visitors can also enjoy light up events at the former Sado Gold Mine, watch movies at the outdoor Hello Japan Sea Cinema, sample tasty food at Harbour Market, and catch fringe events at Kisaki Shrine.

Book your tickets now, and enjoy drum performances under the stars this summer!

The post Sado Island Earth Celebration this Summer 2019 appeared first on Jarman International KK.

On Sado Island, Niigata Prefecture, the power of the island rises through your feet. With half of Japan’s Noh stages dotted across the island, Sado as the home of the world renown Kodo Taiko drum troupe and its position as a rare sanctuary for Japan’s endangered crested Ibis Toki bird, this is a Japan destination to be treasured.

After a jetfoil ferry trip across the deep blue that separates Sado from mainland Niigata, this would be a place to enjoy for three days to a week.

For the past 18 years, August’s Earth Celebration has been a meeting point for those who love art, Japanese culture, Kodo drums, and pristine nature. Known as the butterfly island for its unique shape, we are very honored to be able to support Sado’s effort to let more people know about this amazing place and special Summer festival.

Tickets are on sale from May 15 so if you are planning your trip to Japan or your summer holiday, this would be a wonderful event to consider. The dates of this year’s Sado island festival are August 16-18, 2019, see the full schedule here.

Sado is sometimes referred to as the butterfly island due to its unique shape. In August, people gather on this special island to celebrate the Earth by enjoying performances and activities that celebrate Sado’s special natural beauty.

More information on tickets and schedules for the event can be viewed on the official (English) Sado Earth Celebration Website.

The post Sado Island Celebrates Earth with a Festival filled with Japan’s Kodo Drums and Deep Culture appeared first on Jarman International KK.