We have been writing about Meshtastic for a few months now. Explaining what it does, where it helps, and how teams can use it. Starting in March, you will be able to buy devices directly from us.

If you have used proprietary radios or GPS devices, you probably know the feeling: the product you bought never receives another update. Sometimes not even when there are serious bugs or security issues. The manufacturer has moved on.

Hunting teams need two things from their communication equipment: knowing where the dogs are, and knowing where each other is. Dog Navi was one attempt at solving this, but it has been discontinued for some time. Teams are looking for alternatives.

If you are looking at license-free communication options for outdoor use in Japan, you have probably come across two choices: Digital Low Power Community Radio (デジタル小電力コミュニティ無線, or DCR) and Meshtastic. Both work without cell coverage. Both have GPS. Both require no license. So what is the difference?

From our experience teaching at ski schools, we know one of the constant challenges: knowing where your instructors are. Are they still on the beginner slope? Did they move to the intermediate run? Is anyone going to make it back in time?

You may have heard that Meshtastic is "free and open source." But what does that actually mean? And why should you care?

The short answer is yes. You can use Meshtastic legally in Japan, as long as your device has Giteki certification.

Taking Meshtastic devices into the field for the first time? Run through this checklist before you go.

Imagine your team is spread across a mountain. No mobile signal. You need to know where everyone is and whether they are okay. How do you stay in touch?

Welcome to Karida. We are glad you are here.

We started this company because we care about rural Japan. Small towns, mountain villages, farming communities. These places face real challenges every day. Communities are getting smaller and older. Budgets are tight, and there are fewer people to do the work. At the same time, the need for safety, coordination, and local resilience keeps growing.