The Ibasho model was pioneered in Japan after the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011. In its first six years of operation, Ibasho House in Japan served more than 40,000 people and hosted over 1,250 events in which elders shared their knowledge with younger generations by cooking traditional foods, organizing traditional festivals, teaching young people how to use old equipment without electricity, and more. Elders operated the Ibasho house in the self-sustainable manner, raising funds through organic garden, farmer’s market, ramen noodle shop, cafe, and writing grants for their operation and multi-generational programs.

By creating multigenerational programs and a physical space to allow community members of all ages to connect through elder-led programs, Ibasho house let participants broaden their social circles and make communities more inclusive for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Congratulations to our Japanese elders…