The Department of Social Science organised the first study tour for nine Asian Studies students to visit Kunisaki in Japan from 29 May to 4 Jun 2017 with support from a local non-government organisation, Ippan-shadan-hojin Chiki Mirai Keikaku. The study tour included meetings with local social entrepreneurs, religious leaders and government officials for a better understanding of Japan’s rural development. The students also had the opportunity to talk to the City Mayor Akifumi and learned how to attract young adults from urban areas to contribute to the rural economy. Sightseeing of major tourist attractions, particularly agricultural heritage sites, was also arranged.

The students resided in a Buddhist temple to experience local Japanese culture. They also participated in social service activities with local high school and university students. In the wrap-up session, the students visited the Kunisaki City Research Centre for World Agricultural Heritage and shared what they had learnt and experienced in the study tour. They pointed out that Japan is not simply a place for shopping and fun, but also full of cultural traditions.