Boy Scouts of Ota Ward Honorary Visit with Local Officials

Honorary Visit of Boy Scouts to Ota Ward Mayor

On March 27, 2026, a group of dedicated scouts, who earned the prestigious Fuji Scout Badge along with other notable achievements, gathered for a formal visit to the Ota Ward Mayor, Mr. Suzuki. The meeting took place in the Ota Ward government building and marked a significant milestone in their journey as scouts.

The event started promptly at 10:30 AM and lasted for about 30 minutes. A total of fifteen scouts participated, representing those who had successfully received the Fuji Scout Badge, Hayabusa Scout Badge, and Kiku Scout Badge during the 2025 fiscal year. The session was enriched with discussions and presentations that highlighted the values and experiences gained through their scouting journey.

During the meeting, each scout had the opportunity to share what they learned and how their achievements had positively impacted their growth. Mayor Suzuki extended encouraging words to the scouts, emphasizing the importance of their roles as responsible members of society.

Understanding the Fuji Scout Badge

The Fuji Scout Badge represents the highest rank in the Boy Scouts of Japan. Designed for Venture Scouts, which typically includes high school-aged youth, this badge symbolizes the embodiment of autonomy, responsibility, and public spirit—qualities essential for becoming a responsible adult in society.

Scouts progress through a series of ranks, namely, Beginner, 2nd Class, 1st Class, Kiku, Hayabusa, and finally, the Fuji Scout Badge. Achieving the Fuji Scout Badge requires scouts to tackle tasks from six essential areas: Basic skills, Scout skills, Scout spirit, Service, Faith promotion, Growth, and Contribution. Importantly, candidates must also face the challenge of planning and executing a solo camping trip of two nights and three days.

Another crucial element for qualifying for the Fuji Scout Badge is leadership. Scouts are expected to demonstrate the ability to plan, implement, and report on projects while upholding a spirit of service. They are trained to develop qualities that make them capable leaders who can contribute positively to society.

Scouting activities cater to a wide age range, from first-graders to young adults up to 25 years old, providing a structured path for youth development.

The Boy Scouts Movement

Originating in the United Kingdom in 1907, the Boy Scouts movement has evolved into a global initiative, with approximately 57 million participants from 176 countries and territories. The core of scouting revolves around outdoor activities that promote autonomy, teamwork, social skills, resilience, and leadership among children and youth through group activities.

In Japan, scouting organizations operate approximately 1,700 groups nationwide, engaging around 80,000 individuals, including both children and adults. Through various activities, scouts learn vital life skills that prepare them for future responsibilities.

For more information about the Boy Scouts and their programs, please reach out to Shinji Yamamoto at the Tokyo Branch of the Boy Scouts of Japan here.