Our Team & Commitments

Jordy & Eriko Delage - The founders

After spending 15 years in Tokyo working in the export of Japanese craftsmanship, the COVID crisis prompted a deep reflection on the meaning of life. This led us to relocate to Ishigaki, a small island in Japan rich in potential yet lagging in sustainability—where we believed we could make a difference.

Our journey began with the opening of a sustainably managed beachfront villa, followed by Sky Valley Farm, a permaculture-inspired project dedicated to providing high-quality organic fruits and vegetables for our restaurants and local community.

When the opportunity arose, we acquired the hotel next to our home, transforming it into a family-friendly, sustainable, and community-driven project. Sky Ocean Ishigaki Eco Resort Hotel opened in March 2025.

At the same time, we established the Tethys Fund, a nonprofit initiative committed to environmental protection and education. We believe that education is the key to making the ecological transition both meaningful and effective.

For Jordy, Eriko, Shinji, Aoi, and Aya (our three children), our entire life is dedicated to our community—through our hotel, restaurant, farm, and nonprofit fund.

Our Team

  • Sayaka

    Sky Ocean Manager

  • Mickael

    Sky Ocean Manager

  • Sumire

    Sky Ocean Breakfast Artist

Seasonal Workers & Working Holiday

Our hotel operates in tune with the rhythm of the seasons, which naturally creates a need for seasonal staff. However, unlike many businesses, our approach to hiring during peak times isn’t driven by profit — it’s guided by values of community and cultural exchange.

We welcome team members from around the world through Japan’s Working Holiday Visa program — a one-year visa that allows foreigners to explore the country while gaining work experience. This creates a unique opportunity for them to discover the tropical wonders of Japan in a positive, international environment, while enriching our team with their own knowledge, background, and perspectives.

Whether owner, manager, full-time staff, or working holiday team member, everyone at Sky Ocean Ishigaki is treated equally. We all receive the same hourly wage — because fairness and respect are at the heart of what we do.

Tethys Fund (Japan Philanthropic Foundation)

Our Tethys fund offers around 10M YEN annually to Ishigaki local associations involved in ecological activities and education linked to ecological projects..

Beach cleaning to protect biodiversity

Our entire team is engaged in beach cleaning activities, and our hotel is officially registered as a collection point. We also provide beach cleaning bags to customers who would like to give a hand.

SeaGrass Conservation Project

Run by Nosoko Elementary School and supported by our community, including Sky Resorts’ Founder’s son, Shinji.