#Japan #Shinjuku #Fishing Experience #Marine Learning

New Marine Learning Initiative Launched in Shinjuku

In a visionary step towards integrating maritime education into public schooling, Shinjuku City has embarked on an innovative marine learning project. This initiative, led by the Next Generation Value Consortium and powered by Actindi Co., which operates the popular outing information site “Iko-yo,” will commence in 2025. The aim is to connect local elementary schools with the ocean through a series of engaging learning experiences.

The inaugural event of this project took place on May 15, 2025, at the Tomiura Fishing Port in Minami Boso City, Chiba. Approximately 30 sixth-grade students from Higashitotoyama Elementary School in Shinjuku participated in an immersive program themed around “experiencing maritime connections.” They were given the incredible opportunity to get hands-on with various roles involved in the fishing industry.

During the day, students learned about fishery operations, from catching to sorting and auctioning live fish. This practical experience not only enriched their understanding but also provided insights into fish biology and the complexities of the seafood supply chain, areas often overlooked in textbooks.

Program Overview

Here is a snapshot of what the program included:

• - Date: May 15, 2025
• - Location: Tomiura Fishing Port, Minami Boso City, Chiba
• - Participants: Approximately 30 sixth graders from Higashitotoyama Elementary School
• - Activities: Fish catching, live fish explanations, interviews with industry professionals, and hands-on sorting and auctioning experiences.

The Day of the Experience

The excitement was palpable as students interacted with an array of freshly caught fish, including varieties like Kinmedai (red bream), Mutsu, Aji (horse mackerel), and Saba (mackerel). Their eyes lit up with curiosity as they touched species they rarely encounter, such as the large anago (conger eel) and flying fish. The hands-on segment, particularly the auction game, offered a keen insight into the marketplace, focusing on roles apart from fishery workers, such as brokers and cooperatives. Students learned how seafood is valued and sold, giving them a comprehensive view of the fishing industry's operational dynamics.

Voices from the Participants

Comments from various stakeholders highlighted the program's impact:

"Our students gained profound insights by handling fish firsthand rather than just observing processed fillets. Engaging with fishermen directly instilled an appreciation for primary industry workers and cultivated gratitude towards food sources. It’s vital for us to facilitate more such educational experiences for our kids," stated Yukihiro Uyam, Principal of Higashitotoyama Elementary School.

About the Marine Learning Initiative

The overarching goal of this project is to forge meaningful connections between children and the ocean, especially considering the declining interactions many children in Japan have with maritime environments. According to a 2024 survey by the Nippon Foundation, societal factors have limited exposure to marine experiences for city-dwelling children.

In partnership with local governments and educational institutions, this project aims to lower the barriers to marine experiences and make maritime education an intrinsic part of standard curricula or nature camps. Starting in 2025, the initiative will collaborate with five municipalities, including Nerima, Meguro, Kita, Shinjuku, and Adachi, to implement the marine learning program across selected schools.

Future Programming

Scheduled for execution throughout the year, various marine-related programs will include:

• - Marine Safety Classes & Marine Activities: Conducted at beaches like Haraoka and Okitsu, featuring SUP and kayaking.
• - Fishing Job Experience Program: Opportunities at locations like Yota and Tomiura Fishing Ports, promoting interactions with local fishermen.
• - Ocean Learning Photo Rally: An orientation event at Taiho Cape Natural Park encouraging exploration and appreciation of local marine life.
• - Plankton Sampling and Observation: Engaging activities aimed at deepening children's understanding of marine ecosystems.

In conclusion, this initiative by Shinjuku District is paving the way for a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens who appreciate and respect the ocean. Collaborating with educational entities and community partners, they aspire to build a robust foundation for continued engagement with marine environments. The educational potential is vast, and as these students learn about and connect with their oceans, they will become more mindful stewards of a sustainable future.

• ---

For more details, visit Actindi website.