Hiroko Kimura after contracting cerebral palsy at the age of one, it left her crippled, isolated and dependent for many years. She finally managed to breakthrough to a new way of living, which would not only liberate herself, but also bring great joy and inspiration to thousands of others.

Hiroko is able to impart her warmth, charm and determination of spirit through two main activities. The first one is her art- water colour painting, which she undertakes with her left foot. Her exhibitions and admission to the “International association of foot and mouth painters” have allowed her to travel extensively thereby giving many people the opportunity to see her work and experience her spirit.

Her art has also allowed her to finance her second activity of inspiration, the establishment of ‘Tsuchi no Yado ‘ or the ‘Inn of the Earth’ in Japan and now in Australia. Hiroko presently lives in and runs the Okinawan Yado which provides affordable and disabled accessible lodgings for peoples of all ages, nationalities and abilities. It is this diversity of backgrounds and the intimate nature of the Inn which makes the lodging unique and gives the guests more than just a bed to sleep in. It is very much a learning and cultural experience for all those involved which Hiroko feels helps to create more understanding and thus peace in the world.