In 1980's on a trip to Australia Hiroko passed through Adelaide on her way to Ayers Rock. During this time she was surprised by an Australian feeling of resentment towards Japanese people, possibly as a result of the large amount of Japanese backed investment that was happening around the time. Hiroko felt that there was another side to the Japanese culture that people were perhaps unaware of so she had the idea to create a disability friendly Yado in Australia which she hoped would help break down some of these barriers of ignorance. So land was bought and a house built but as she was refused a residential visa on the basis of disability she could only spend a few weeks in Hahndorf at a time and so the Yado was simply a holiday house for herself and friends from Japan.

Meanwhile Hiroko over the years continued to hold several exhibitions in Australia including events such as the High Beam Festival, ARELX, the Heyson Festival and the Japan Foundation in Sydney, which have warmed the hearts of many people and cultivated many friendships and much support that has helped keep her dream alive. Now finally after many years of effort on the parts of many of these friends and supporters, Tsuchi No Yado Bed and Breakfast has become a reality! The process of gaining council approval, making modifications as well as establishing the Yado as a company has taken considerable time and perseverance but now people of all abilities, ages and backgrounds can come an enjoy the fruits of all this work. Hiroko hopes that many people will come and stay at Tsuchi No Yado Bed and Breakfast and that they will not only feel the natural beauty and peace of the property but also experience something unique that will leave them with new insights and a fresh inspiration for life.

Hiroko’s dream in Hahndorf would not have been possible without the wonderful dedication and support of the late Max Jellie and his wife Phylis, who were instrumental in the setting up of the Yado.