Picchio is an organisation located within Hoshino Resorts in Karuizawa, Nagano prefecture, that promotes ecoutourism. Dozens of people gather in front of Picchio's visitor center everyday to take part in one of their activities. Among the most popular ones are the guided tours to discover the Wild Bird Forest, a place full of surprises, or the tours to encounter Japanese giant flying squirrels in the evening.
Although most of the activities have been thought out so that they can be done with the entire family, some may be too physical for young children.
This is why Picchio has created its Adventure Club. With various activities meant for children from 4 to 12, the program's aim is to help them discover nature and have fun through various experiences and games. Full-day and half-day courses are available. During summer, it is even possible to join the camp program organized for elementary schoolers during which they spend three days on their own - along with staff members of course - in the wild.
Many activities are available throughout the year such as archery, water games or exploration games among others. They vary depending on the seasons so that each month can be enjoyed to the fullest.
The main points of Picchio's Adventure Club activities are to have children use their five senses to explore what is around them, and also to teach them the importance of working together as a team. Although adults are there to help in case they are needed, children can do a very good job alone. I am sure anyone would be amazed to see what kind of tent preschoolers are actually able to build within a little less than three hours.
Another activity that is not listed within the Adventure Club's list, but that is quite popular among children during summertime is the exploration quest, or tanken in Japanese. Parents and children have to join their strengths to solve enigmas related to the nature around them in order to help the animals of the forest.
It is highly recommended to call beforehand to make a reservation for the Adventure Club activities, especially during holiday periods. Groups are limited to a maximum of 15 children for preschoolers and of 20 children for elementary schoolers. It is also good to know that a lunch box is provided by Picchio for children taking a full-day course.
