We offer immersive experiences in the Satoyama (rural mountain villages) of Tanba Sasayama, providing opportunities to connect with the region's living traditions, culture, and history.

This tour will include 15 high school students from the United States. The themes of the activities are contributing to community development and learning, as well as experiencing different cultures. During their 11-day stay, the students will engage in various activities such as satoyama conservation work at Kira Farm, renovating an old house, assisting the Maruyama village community, strolling through a historic castle town, visiting a Japanese sword forging workshop, and participating in traditional crafts like Tamba Tachikui pottery, Tamba cotton weaving, and Japanese taiko drumming with Tamba Sasayama Daiko Kosasagumi. They will also have opportunities for mutual learning at a local high school with peers of the same age, and explore the initiatives of Mizuho no Ie, a welfare project.

Additionally, they will interact with host families and local residents in the area. One unique feature of this trip is that every evening, the students will prepare their own dinner together with local parents. This initiative was requested by their teacher to provide the students with a hands-on understanding of where their food comes from and how it is consumed, fostering a deeper appreciation of the entire process.

By learning through experience, participants are encouraged to expand their perspectives and apply their insights to the present and future. The program aims to provide transformative experiences in Satoyama that inspire the younger generation to shape their futures.

Event Dates

• January 11, 2025, at 1:00 PM
• January 21, 2025, at 9:00 PM

Event Location

• Throughout Tanba Sasayama City