#Japan #Tokyo #Child Education #Hoikuen Ryugaku #Orix Rent-A-Car

Hoikuen Ryugaku's Innovative Partnership with Orix Rent-A-Car

In a significant development for families interested in study abroad programs for their children, Hoikuen Ryugaku, operated by Kitch Hike, has announced a nationwide collaboration with Orix Rent-A-Car. This partnership aims to introduce exclusive rental car plans specifically designed for families utilizing Hoikuen Ryugaku's services, promoting mobility and enhancing community interactions. This innovative initiative reflects a growing trend in the education sector, where family experiences are increasingly recognized as vital to the child’s development.

Background of the Initiative

Hoikuen Ryugaku offers families an opportunity for their children to attend kindergarten in various regions across Japan for a duration of 1 to 2 weeks. This program allows parents to work while their children enjoy an enriching living experience in diverse environments. Since its inception, over 3,000 families and more than 10,000 individuals have participated, with offerings extending to more than 60 regions nationwide.

However, many of these regions lack public transportation options, making a car an essential mode of transportation for families. Given that many participants come from urban areas, a significant number do not possess a vehicle, making the cost of transportation a substantial burden on their overall study abroad expenses. To address this, the collaboration with Orix Rent-A-Car introduces a rental service that alleviates some of the financial stress, promoting family mobility and local engagement.

Previously, strategies such as 'study abroad taxation' through hometown tax systems helped to lessen financial burdens on families, creating pathways for deeper community ties. A pilot project in Hokkaido showed promising results, with approximately 35% of study abroad families utilizing Orix services, highlighting the elevated comfort and convenience achieved through this collaboration.

The current nationwide rollout not only aims to enhance families' convenience but also strives to foster local economic activity and connections, contributing to regional revitalization.

Special Rental Plans for Participants

Families that complete their registration with Hoikuen Ryugaku will receive exclusive access to special rental plans from Orix Rent-A-Car, which provide significant discounts compared to standard rates. Specific details regarding these plans will be communicated to families upon their registration for the study abroad program.

Overview of Hoikuen Ryugaku

Hoikuen Ryugaku is designed as a child-centric living experience for families, where children can grow physically and mentally in the embrace of nature, while parents balance work and family duties in versatile environments. The initiative benefits regions by creating long-lasting community relationships and stimulating local economies. Since its launch in November 2021 at the accredited kindergarten in Atsubetsu Town, the program has expanded into over 60 regions nationwide by October 2025, welcoming over 3,000 families and 10,000 participants.

For more details about Hoikuen Ryugaku, visit: Hoikuen Ryugaku Official Site

Upcoming Enrollment Information

Enrollment for the next academic year (starting April 2026) commenced on November 11. Early interest has led to sold-out bookings for summer slots at Hokkaido's Atsubetsu Town accredited kindergarten. Popular regions and time slots may quickly fill up, so families considering participation are encouraged to register promptly. Study abroad planners are available to assist families in choosing the right program and location.

Details about study abroad planners can be found here: Study Abroad Planner

About Kitch Hike Corporation

Kitch Hike is a company dedicated to enhancing local values and connecting them to the future of our planet. With a mission to empower local communities to become pioneers of change, Kitch Hike focuses on cultivating new cultural and economic landscapes through innovative regional initiatives.

• - Headquarters: 4-13-9 Higashi-Ueno, Taito-Ku, Tokyo 110-0015
• - CEO: Masaya Yamamoto (Expert for the Cabinet Office’s Regional Revitalization SDGs Model City)
• - Established: December 2012
• - Website: Kitch Hike Official Site

Key Projects:

• - Hoikuen Ryugaku: A child-centric living experience where families stay in different regions for 1-2 weeks.
• - NIPPON LOCAL FOOD GIFT: A gift service promoting local food.
• - Future Research Studio: A collaborative platform for building the future of children and local communities.

Awards:

Hoikuen Ryugaku has received numerous accolades, including the 2023 Parenting Award for Japan’s Childrearing Trends, and awards from various governmental organizations for its contributions to community enrichment and sustainable development.