Hello
My name is Violet Pacileo.
I spent 15 years in the Japanese stock market. Managed large amounts of money for institutions, helped listed companies connect with global investors, and basically worked long hours for someone else. I was stressed, making unhealthy choices, being a bad parent so I could buy nice things and take expensive holidays.
After moving to Otoyo in 2020 to be closer to my elderly mother, and seeing the economic devastation in the town first-hand, I knew I had to do something. After two years of fund raising, I built a scenic CrossFit gym, a Tiny House rental, purchased a bunch of sports e-bikes and built a riverside BBQ terrace so city workers can enjoy their time away from their busy lives unplugging in the countryside.
Moreover the demographic of our town is heavily skewed towards >65 year olds. Our gym gives the locals a choice to be physically and mentally fit so they can live a long and healthy life.
All this wouldn't have been possible without the support of my generous husband, Carlo, and my family, whom I am massively grateful to.
THIS IS OUR JOURNEY
Sustainably built by local female architects
Unfortunately, Japan lags the rest of the developed world especially in gender equality. This is a women owned business. I celebrate uniqueness.
I was lucky enough to come across two talented Japanese female architects in Kochi, who specialised in locally sourced hinoki wood buildings. You won't see another CrossFit box like ours anywhere else in the world.
Come workout with us while you listen to the river sounds in the background.
Find out more about Hijiri Architecture Laboratory here.