#Japan #Shinagawa #Shinagawa Ward #Rissho University #Katsunori Kitahara

Rissho University and Shinagawa Ward's Lifelong Learning Initiative

Rissho University, located in Shinagawa, Tokyo, is partnering with Shinagawa Ward to offer a free lifelong learning course titled "Considering the Future of Food and Agriculture: A Perspective Connecting Urban and Rural Areas". This course will take place over two sessions on November 11 and 18, 2026, at the university's Shinagawa campus.

The initiative is part of the broader theme "Understanding Shinagawa" which aims to illuminate the diverse charms of the Shinagawa area. This year’s course will feature Professor Katsunori Kitahara from the Faculty of Economics, who will delve into pressing issues surrounding agriculture and food from a local Shinagawa perspective. The focus will be on transitioning the relationship between urban and rural settings from one of conflict to coexistence, promoting a sustainable future.

Course Details

Session Dates: November 11 and 18, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM (JST)
Instructor: Professor Katsunori Kitahara, Faculty of Economics, Rissho University

The program will comprise two distinct sessions:
1. Session 1: Understanding Agriculture and Food Issues from Shinagawa [1] – Conflict between Urban and Rural (November 11)
2. Session 2: Understanding Agriculture and Food Issues from Shinagawa [2] – Moving from Conflict to Coexistence (November 18)

Implementation Overview and Application Guidelines

Date: November 11 and 18, 2026
Venue: Rissho University, Shinagawa Campus, 1152 Classroom, 5th Floor, Building 11
Address: 4-2-16 Osaki, Shinagawa Ward, Tokyo
Access: 5 minutes from JR Yamanote Line "Osaki" or "Gotanda" stations, and 1 minute from Tokyu Ikegami Line "Osaki-Hirokoji" station.

Eligibility: Individuals aged 16 or older residing, working, or studying in Shinagawa Ward.
Capacity: 200 participants (selection by lottery in case of high demand)
Tuition Fee: Free
Co-hosts: Shinagawa Ward and Rissho University

Application Process

Application Deadline: October 16, 2026 (must arrive by this date)
How to Apply:

• - Online Application: Use the application form available on the Shinagawa Ward website.
• - Postal Application: Send a return postcard with the following information:

1. Course Name: "Shinagawa Study"
2. Address
3. Name (Furigana)
4. Age
5. Phone Number
6. Any special considerations (if applicable)

Mailing Address:
140-8715
Shinagawa Ward Office
Cultural and Tourism Strategy Division
Lifelong Learning Section
2-1-36 Hirocho, Shinagawa Ward

This incredible opportunity allows residents and students in Shinagawa to engage in critical discussions about the future of food and agriculture, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and community involvement. Don’t miss out on the chance to learn from an esteemed academic and contribute to the shared narrative of urban-rural relationships.