#Japan #Japan Service Awards #Preschool Study Abroad #Kichhike #Atsukawa

Kichhike's Innovative Approach: 'Preschool Study Abroad'

Kichhike, based in Atsukawa, Hokkaido, announced on December 9, 2025, that their family-oriented initiative, 'Preschool Study Abroad (※1)', has received both the Excellence Award and the Jury's Special Award at the 5th Japan Service Awards, attended by government officials including the Prime Minister. This recognition showcases the program's impact on facilitating a unique learning experience for children through community immersion.

About the Japan Service Awards

The Japan Service Awards, organized by the Japan Productivity Center's Service Industry Productivity Council (SPRING), aims to honor innovative and outstanding services. The awards are designed to celebrate organizations that provide new and remarkable values, enhancing the service industry and promoting sustainable development. In this cycle, there were 768 entries, with 33 services recognized for their excellence.

What is 'Preschool Study Abroad'?

'Preschool Study Abroad' enables families to stay in a local community for one to two weeks, allowing children to attend local preschools. This immersive experience is crafted to expose children to diverse cultures, nature, and critical life skills essential for their development in the AI era. The program not only benefits children by providing foundational non-cognitive skills, termed “Lifelong Gifts,” but also offers families various options to balance work and childcare without compromise. Furthermore, it fosters long-term relationships and contributes to local economies. Launched in 2021 in Atsukawa, Hokkaido, the program has expanded to approximately 70 regions, with over 10,000 participants and 3,000 families involved by December 2025.

Evaluation Points for Awards

The dual honors were awarded due to several key factors: the implementation of the “Three-Way Good” model bringing vitality and hope to children, parents, and communities; the creation of a new parenting culture that leverages experiences from study-abroad participants; the program’s contribution towards addressing challenges faced by depopulated areas, serving as a model for regional revitalization; and its role in easing urban parenting concerns and promoting a dual-residency lifestyle between urban and rural areas.

Acceptance Speeches

CEO Masaya Yamamoto

Masaya Yamamoto, the CEO and founder of the program, expressed gratitude towards the many regions and preschools that have nurtured this initiative. He remarked, "This achievement is a testament to the collaborative efforts we have built together with every participating family. In November 2025, Kichhike relocated its headquarters from Tokyo back to our roots in Atsukawa. We are committed to continue challenging ourselves in this picturesque region, which we believe is at the forefront of innovation. Our mission is to accelerate our ambition for VISION2050, positioning regions as pioneers for the future."

CRRO Makiko Kawakami

Makiko Kawakami, the Chief Regional Relationship Officer and a central figure in the project, shared her elation at the recognition. "The journey of 'Preschool Study Abroad' began with a desire not to compromise on parenting or work. I am a strong advocate for workplace reform and believe that the integration of child-rearing and professional responsibilities requires not only individual effort but also an evolution in organizational mindset. Going forward, I hope to leverage our experiences to foster environments and frameworks conducive to a harmonious balance between parenting and working."

Future Directions

In light of this prestigious acknowledgment, Kichhike aims to further promote 'Preschool Study Abroad' while focusing on key areas of development, which include:
1. Strengthening Collaboration with Local Governments
Kichhike plans to engage closely with municipal partners to foster continuous regional development models centered around 'Preschool Study Abroad'. This includes innovative projects like using hometown tax contributions via 'Study Abroad Taxation®' (※2) and enhancing diverse child-care practices.
2. Consulting for Organizations
With their achievements recognized nationally, Kichhike is set to offer consulting services focusing on child-rearing and work-life integration. Kawakami will lead efforts in partnering with organizations to facilitate progressive workplace cultures supportive of family dynamics.
3. Advancing Educational Value
Kichhike will redefine 'Preschool Study Abroad' as a 'Lifelong Gift' for every child, emphasizing education and personal growth. As such, they plan to expand their outreach in collaboration with educational professionals to continue creating transformative learning experiences.

Company Overview

Kichhike's mission revolves around enhancing regional values and connecting them to the future sustainably. Their vision includes cultivating local strengths to introduce innovations globally. They have established various projects aiming at regional development and community-based training initiatives. With their headquarters located in Atsukawa, the company continues to grow its influence and nurture positive changes that resonate with families nationwide. For inquiries related to journalism, governmental collaboration, or corporate partnerships, Kichhike invites individuals and organizations to reach out through their contact portal on their official website.

(※1) 'Preschool Study Abroad' is a registered trademark of Kichhike.
(※2) 'Study Abroad Taxation®' is a registered trademark of Giftie Co., Ltd. (registered in October 2022).