#Japan #Bunkyo Gakuin #Kamaishi City #Studycation #Kamaishi

Bunkyo Gakuin University's Kamash Studycation Program 2026

Bunkyo Gakuin University, under the leadership of President Tsutomu Fukui, will kick off a unique educational initiative starting May 16, 2026, in Kamaishi City, Iwate Prefecture. This practical learning program combines "Study" and "Vacation," embodying the concept of 'Studycation.' This year marks the fourth installment of this initiative.

In 2026, ten students from the Faculty of Business Administration will spend approximately two weeks in Kamaishi City. They will engage in internships at local businesses and government offices, deepening their understanding of the community while promoting the city's attractions.

Key Features of the Kamaishi Studycation Program 2026:

• - Experiential Learning: This program offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for students to experience "learning, working, and living" in a rural setting.
• - Project-Based Learning: Leveraging Project-Based Learning (PBL), students will confront local challenges head-on.
• - Skill Development: The program emphasizes the development of essential skills necessary for professional life, such as self-motivation, communication, and teamwork.
• - Comprehensive Learning Design: The design includes pre-trip learning, on-site practical training, reflections, and crisis management education.

Overview of Past Programs

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the notion of "workation" has gained traction. Bunkyo Gakuin University has taken this concept and adapted it for its students. The university has established a harmonious relationship with Kamaishi City, which has lasted over a decade, making it an ideal location for this program.

The ongoing implementation of the program has fostered trust and collaboration with local government agencies, businesses, and residents, creating a supportive environment for students to grow in the community. This is not merely a short-term training experience; it represents a commitment to continuous learning and support between the university and its partner community.

While residing in the region, students will broaden their perspectives by participating in internships with local organizations, learning about their societal significance and roles, as well as the realities of the local environment. The program aims to link classroom learning with real-world experiences, enriching the students’ educational journeys through personal interactions unique to rural settings.

Kamaishi City faces challenges such as population decline and labor shortages, typical of many rural areas. The Studycation program seeks to leverage the flexible ideas and perspectives of university students to explore possibilities for regional revitalization and new charm development. Local acceptors are also expected to gain new insights and vitality through the students’ creativity and ideas.

Internship Opportunities for Students in 2026

• - Sake Brewery: Hamachidori (URL: hamachidori.net)

- Two students will intern here.
- Social media marketing campaign for “Usunigori” (lightly cloudy sake), including execution and effectiveness analysis.
- Proposal for digital marketing strategies.

• - Seasoning Manufacturing: Fujiyu Jozō (URL: fujiyu.com)

- Two students will intern here.
- Experience in miso production, overview of production processes, and interviews with staff.
- Research on the company and regional history, followed by slide creation and presentation.

• - Government Office: Kamaishi City Hall (URL: city.kamaishi.iwate.jp)

- Three students will intern here.
- Cultural heritage patrol within the city.
- Survey of castle ruins distribution (planned).
- Public relations tasks, including website creation and information management.

• - Seafood Product Manufacturer: Tsuda Shoten (URL: tsudashouten.co.jp)

- Three students will intern here.
- Hands-on experience in sales and quality assurance departments.
- Design and content creation for social media output.

Official Social Media for Kamaishi Studycation

- Instagram: instagram.com/bgu_inkamaishi

Commentary from Faculty and Student Representatives

Faculty Comment: Yuka Abe, Associate Professor, Faculty of Business Administration
"I sincerely thank the people of Kamaishi City for their warm welcomes and the collaborative opportunity for nurturing students through Studycation. This initiative is an invaluable asset for both the students and the university. I hope the students embrace Kamaishi as their ‘second hometown’ and actively address local issues. I encourage them to fully enjoy the experience by engaging with the community and its natural beauty."

Student Representative: Haruki Yamago, Sophomore, Marketing and Design Department
"Thank you, Kamaishi City, for the generous support and warm welcome during our Studycation. The chance to learn through actions rather than lectures is incredibly precious. I am committed to putting forth my best effort in everything, aiming to grow not only as an individual but also with my fellow participants, making this a truly rewarding experience."