Work, Rest, Repeat—A Week of Slow Living on Goto

One day in March, as winter was slowly coming to an end, I picked up a couple at the post office in the center of Fukue Island, in Goto Islands.

They were a married couple working in architecture, visiting for a week—half for work, half for fun. Renting a car for a whole week can be tough, and since we’re exploring ways to promote workations in the future, I volunteered to pick them up myself. Honestly, I was just happy about their long stay!

Right before the pickup, a friend gave me a huge box of freshly caught sardines from Naru Island. So, when I greeted them at the car, I surprised them with a styrofoam box full of shiny fish. A bold first move—but I think it caught them off guard in a good way. Perfect.

We didn’t know each other well yet, or how much time we’d end up spending together, but we headed to the supermarket with an easy, open vibe.

They were kind, cheerful, and thoughtful guests, and their energy made everything easier. That’s how their “live-like-a-local” stay began.

That night, of course, we had a dinner full of sardines. We prepared the fish together, and that shared task helped us get closer right away. It made me happy to see them jump into the experience of filleting fish on their first day!

They did their work on a laptop in the cozy living room around the horigotatsu (a sunken table with heating), or sometimes joined calls from the sunroom on the first floor. They especially loved opening the sliding doors to look out at nature while working. It was the perfect balance of comfort and inspiration.

Working at room with nature

The guest loved to play yoga in the morning.

After they wrapped up their work, we started exploring the island together.

We pulled daikon radishes from the garden, harvested log-grown shiitake mushrooms, went out for sushi, and even stopped by a hidden café deep in the countryside. Their calm and gentle presence seemed to blend perfectly with the quiet, off-season atmosphere of Goto. It felt like they were exactly where they were meant to be.

Kaitsu church

Bonfire BBQ winter edition

Because they stayed for a full week, we were able to share so many experiences together. I believe that’s what made their time on Goto feel extra special and fulfilling.

This stay reminded me of the potential in offering longer visits like this. Moving forward, I’d love to properly prepare and launch an official long-stay plan—with the right setup and support.

If this kind of stay sounds like your kind of adventure, feel free to reach out anytime. We’re always happy to hear from you!