Summary
This documentary project explores the genius loci — the unique spirit of place — of the Sanagōchi Shrine in Tokushima, Japan. Through coaching dialogues, supervision practices, and artistic documentation, we aim to reveal how this sacred site fosters mental health, openness, and the protection of intangible cultural heritage. The project will culminate in two documentary films (Yadory 1, Ibuki 2), a photo exhibition, and public events in Japan and internationally.
Objectives
- Preserve and document the cultural, historical, and spiritual significance of the Sanagōchi Shrine.
- Use coaching conversations to evoke stories of healing, resilience, and transformation.
- Apply supervision to reflect on the ethical, cultural, and emotional dimensions of the project.
- Foster cross-cultural dialogue and awareness about Japan’s rural cultural heritage.
Methodology
- Field research with local residents, shrine caretakers, and visitors.
- Filming rituals, natural surroundings, and interviews.
- Coaching sessions to explore personal connections with the shrine.
- Team supervision meetings to maintain cultural sensitivity and ethical practice.
BUDGET
Filming & equipment: €20,000
Travel & accommodation: €10,000
Post-production: €15,000
Exhibition & outreach: €10,000
Coaching & supervision facilitation: €5,000
Total: €60,000
Expected Outcomes
- Completion of two documentary films (Yadori 1, Ibuki 2).
A traveling photo exhibition showcasing the genius loci of the shrine.
- Public talks and workshops on the intersection of spirituality, well-being, and cultural heritage.
- Enhanced local and international awareness of the importance of preserving cultural sites.
Timeline
- May–June 2025: Proposal development, partner confirmation
- July–October 2025: Filming and fieldwork
- November–December 2025: Post-production, editing
- Early 2026: Exhibitions, screenings, and public events
Potential Collaborators
Tokushima University
Japan Foundation
Asian Cultural Council
UNESCO Japanese Funds-in-Trust
Local shrine association and Tokushima Prefectural Museum
Integrating Coaching and Supervision in the Documentary for the Shrine in Sanagōchi Tokushima-shi
In this project, coaching and supervision will be central tools to explore how spiritual connection at the Sanagōchi Shrine supports mental health, openness, and cultural awareness. Specifically:
Coaching will be used:
- To engage local residents, visitors, and caretakers in reflective conversations about their relationship with the shrine.
- To evoke personal stories of healing, resilience, and transformation connected to this sacred site.
- To highlight how nature, ritual, and presence can foster self-awareness, emotional regulation, and deeper community bonds.
Supervision will be used:
- As a reflective practice for the research and filmmaking team, ensuring cultural sensitivity, ethical integrity, and emotional processing.
- To help the team explore their own reactions, biases, and insights during the project.
- To model a learning process where curiosity, humility, and respect guide the documentation of intangible heritage.
The Sanagōchi Shrine is not only a sacred site, but the embodiment of a genius loci — a spirit of place that weaves together past and present, nature and human presence. Through coaching dialogues and reflective supervision, this project will uncover the deep stories that nourish mental health, cultural awareness, and collective memory.
