We were stoked to receive a copy of the Japanese magazine Ku:nel featuring Mr. Michiaki Tanaka’s home in the mountains of Hakone. A close friend and long time business partner of WOFS, Mr. Tanaka has cultivated a lifestyle that is deeply rooted in feng shui awareness and his home very aptly reflects this.
According to the article, Mr. Tanaka had only two conditions when choosing a home. Firstly, that there was a river nearby and secondly, that the building has no missing corners. This home fulfills both, and more!
A constantly flowing river prevents stagnation and carries “Chi” or energy, while a house without missing corners allows one to observe the influence of “Chi” coming in from every cardinal direction. The presence of mountains also represents support and protection, resulting in an environment that both heals and brings good fortune.
A Pi Yao stands at the entrance, protecting his home and attracting prosperity. A Wealth Vase tucked away on a shelf symbolises the accumulation of wealth and treasures. A rooster figurine on top of the staircase guards against gossip and slander while an Antahkarana Windchime in his dining room infuses the home constantly with fresh Yang chi. He even shakes the 9 Rod Abacus daily to boost financial luck.
The use of bright colours, auspicious paintings and modern Tibetan furniture hone his feng shui practice further, having brought long-term stability and growth to his professional career over the last 10 years.
What stands out more is his discipline to tidiness. According to Mr. Tanaka, a tidy room allows chi to flow more pleasantly and allows him to sense and control even the most subtle changes in energy. This is where he sharpens his perception and deepens his understanding, so making sure every sector takes on a harmonious quality is of utmost importance.
Different rooms are dealt with differently. Washrooms and changing areas are kept simple and unadorned to prevent any auspicious chi from draining away. In his bedroom, the walls are painted white to neutralise illness chi and promote rejuvenation. A “Health and Longevity Vase” with Reishi mushrooms, sits by his bedside to symbolise immortality. His meditation and prayer room is a sacred room that undergoes frequent purification rituals. A painting of the 21 Taras hangs here, blessing him with protection and smooth enlightenment.
Miss Nameko Shinsan, the interviewer and manga artist for the article, proclaims that combined with the synergistic effects of the river flowing outside, Mr. Tanaka’s home feels like a space where one might be guided to Pure Land just by going about their daily life. We have no doubts about this as well. We wish Mr. Michiaki Tanaka all the best and hope to catch up with him soon!
