Heer Ikigai is a foundation located at Noordervaart 30, 1841 HA Stompetoren, that operates a food forest and a self-picking garden. The initiative is rooted in the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai, aiming to foster a life in harmony with nature, share knowledge, connect people, and promote sustainability within the community, while also providing local, healthy food and an attractive natural landscape.
Visitors can enjoy self-picking in the garden, which offers a variety of flowers and vegetables. During the summer, the self-picking garden features flowers such as Hoofdjesgillia, Gypsophila, Coriander, Fennel, Buckwheat, Greater Mallow, Sainfoin, Corn Marigold, Scentless Mayweed, Yellow Chamomile, Flax, Poppy, Sunflower, Cornflower, Phacelia, Common Vetch, Cosmos, Summer Wheat, Summer Oats, Corncockle, Alfalfa, Tickseed (Meisjesogen), Dragonhead, Lavatera, and Camelina Sativa. Fresh organic vegetables are also available for purchase at a small stall located by the roadside.
The self-picking garden is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 13:00 to 16:00. It is recommended to check their social media channels for current updates on the availability of flowers and vegetables before visiting.
Beyond self-picking, the foundation organizes regular “help mornings” where volunteers can contribute to the food forest’s upkeep, typically held on the second Saturday of each month from 9:00 to 12:00, including coffee and cake. These events, along with special tree-planting days, offer opportunities to engage with nature and learn about sustainable practices. Workshops on the Ikigai philosophy and the flora of the garden are also part of their offerings.
Heer Ikigai operates as a Public Benefit Organisation (ANBI) and welcomes financial support through one-time or periodic donations, which are partially tax-deductible.