A Note from the New Kindergarten Manager

There is a large cedar tree next to the main gate of Suwa Kindergarten.
Like a towering cedar tree that has watched over generations, Suwa Kindergarten celebrates its 70th anniversary this year. Over these seven decades, countless children have run through its gates, played under its trees, and carried its memories into the world. The kindergarten’s history resembles a mighty tree—its roots deeply intertwined with the community, its branches spreading wide with new possibilities.

Cedar trees are revered across the world for their longevity and their quiet presence as guardians of the past, present, and future. Today, we reflect on Suwa Kindergarten’s journey through the lens of these timeless trees.

A Story Woven with Great Cedars

In the kindergarten’s garden stands an old, sturdy tree. Under its shade, children play tag, whisper secrets, and watch the seasons change. The sight reminds me of an old Japanese folktale about a talkative cedar tree that knew all the village secrets.

This tree, legend has it, would murmur to the wind:
“That child had a great day playing today.”
“The teacher snuck a snack when no one was looking.”

Much like this mythical cedar, the teachers of Suwa Kindergarten observe, nurture, and protect each child’s growth. Their wisdom, passed down through generations, has shaped the very foundation of this institution.

70 Years of Growth, Reaching for the Next Century

Seventy years ago, Suwa Kindergarten was just a young sapling, nurtured with the love of teachers, parents, and the community. Today, it stands strong, its roots deep, its canopy wide.

In Celtic mythology, great trees are seen as bridges between the past, present, and future. Likewise, Suwa Kindergarten remains committed to preserving its traditions while adapting to modern education, ensuring that its branches continue to spread for generations to come.

The North America Great Cedars and the Future of Our Children

In the forests of California stand the ancient redwoods—giants that have lived for thousands of years. One tale tells of a man who claimed to be “the world’s greatest tree climber”. With great enthusiasm, he climbed one of these towering redwoods, only to realize at the top:

“Wait… how do I get down?”

The villagers, amused, held a quick lesson on problem-solving.

“Alright, class, let’s discuss ways to get him down!”
“Forget the discussion—just help me already!”

Eventually, they lowered him with a rope, but from that day on, he was known not as “the world’s greatest tree climber” but “the man who forgot to climb down.”

This amusing tale carries an important lesson—planning for the future is as important as reaching new heights. At Suwa Kindergarten, we strive to instill this mindset in our children, helping them grow into individuals who can navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and curiosity.

One day, the children of Suwa Kindergarten will become parents themselves, returning with their own little ones to the same playground under the same great tree. With this vision, we will continue to provide a nurturing and inspiring environment—just like the mighty cedar that has watched over us all.

We look forward to many more years of growing together. Thank you for your continued support of Suwa Kindergarten.