#Japan #Sapporo #KitchHike #Hokkaido University #厚沢部町

KitchHike's Groundbreaking Collaboration with Hokkaido University

KitchHike, a Tokyo-based company dedicated to expanding local values and connecting to the future of the planet, has announced a partnership with Hokkaido University. This initiative aims to tackle local issues through organic collaboration among industries, government, and academia, starting in August 2025 with a project in Atsubetsu, Hokkaido.

The Mission Behind the Collaboration

KitchHike has a mission encapsulated in their vision for 2050 of making communities pioneers for the future. Over the years, they have collaborated with numerous municipalities to address local challenges. Recent projects include “Preschool Study Abroad”—an immersive experience where families stay in a region for 1-2 weeks—and initiatives like “Elementary School Study Abroad” and “Community Development Studio” which focus on creating relationships and revitalizing communities.

In tandem, Hokkaido University is driven by its HU VISION 2030 initiative, promoting the expansion of educational and research efforts into society. The university is committed to fulfilling regional needs while also strengthening its collaborations with municipalities, businesses, and other institutions to enhance knowledge creation and training that solve local issues.

This collaboration is a convergence of KitchHike’s “Preschool Study Abroad” initiatives with local governments, thereby harnessing their collective resources and expertise. The goal is to propel educational and human resource development through research efforts to accelerate problem-solving, exploring new collaborative forms that connect localities with the future.

Pilot Program in Atsubetsu

In August 2025, KitchHike will launch the “Atsubetsu Summer Camp 2025” for elementary school children. This inquiry-based summer camp will be overseen by Hokkaido University, with students from the university acting as support staff. Participants will learn about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through exploration in Atsubetsu’s rich natural environment, engaging with local residents, and participating in activities utilizing local resources.

For the implementation of this program, a diverse group of students, including undergraduates and graduate students from various departments at Hokkaido University, along with students from other universities, will support the initiative. Moreover, local start-up EzoLin-K and regional restaurants and accommodations will be involved in developing the support system. This endeavor connects with the “Study Abroad for Elementary Schoolers” program while striving to establish a self-sustaining model for creating the town's future.

Volunteer Opportunities

As part of the program's operations, a committee has been formed, including members dedicated to facilitating this initiative. Interested individuals from local governments and other entities are encouraged to reach out using the provided contact form.

To check the link for the now-closed application for Hokkaido University student support staff, please click here. Inquiries can be sent through the following contact form: Contact KitchHike.

KitchHike’s Ongoing Recruitment

KitchHike is currently entering its “second founding phase” and is seeking passionate individuals eager to create positive change in their communities and enjoy life. Applicants with strong enthusiasm and a willingness to take action for regional revitalization are encouraged to apply. Further recruitment information can be found on their website: KitchHike Career.

Company Overview

KitchHike's mission is to expand regional values and connect them to the future of the Earth. This brand production and platform company aims to cultivate innovations originating from localities across the globe, nurturing cultural and economic ecosystems. Their new headquarters will be located at: 92 Kamisato, Atsubetsu, Hiyama District, Hokkaido starting November 14, 2025. Previously, they were based in Taito, Tokyo until November 13, 2025.

The CEO, Masaya Yamamoto, recognized for his expertise in local revitalization and SDGs, founded the company in December 2012. More information is available on their website: KitchHike.

Summary of Initiatives

• - Preschool Study Abroad: A unique living experience where families stay in a region for 1-2 weeks. More details here: Preschool Study Abroad.
• - NIPPON LOCAL FOOD GIFT: A gift service promoting local food. Learn more at NIPPON LOCAL FOOD GIFT.
• - Community-Child Future Studio: A project studio aimed at co-creating a future for children and communities. For more information, visit Future Studio.

Awards

KitchHike's “Preschool Study Abroad” program has garnered several accolades, including the 2023 Parenting Award, recognized by a popular parenting magazine, and several awards recognizing SDGs initiatives and local revitalization efforts from government organizations.