#Study Tour #Tsuno Town #Nitobe Culture Academy

Igniting Passion in High School Students Through Travel

In Tsuno Town, a revolutionary approach to education has emerged, centered around innovative study tours. This initiative reformulates traditional school trips into enriching study experiences, allowing students to engage deeply with their surroundings. The goal is to foster curiosity and creativity by immersing students in Japan's breathtaking nature and its diverse cultures.

The focus of these study tours is not simply sightseeing; they aim to inspire students by connecting them with the local community and the environment. This experiential learning encourages students to reflect on their experiences and cultivate ideas that can lead to a brighter future. Over the course of their high school journey, students participate in multiple trips, fostering a profound connection with the world around them.

Through collaboration with education and psychology experts, the effectiveness of these educational journeys has undergone extensive scientific validation. Results show statistically significant improvements in students' intrinsic qualities, including autonomy, altruistic mindset, and the ability to tackle complex challenges. Remarkably, data indicates that eight months after the tours, students can recall their experiences and derive inspiration from them.

Several factors contribute to the transformative impact of these study tours. Key elements include a system that allows for repeat visits, encounters with overwhelming natural beauty, conversations with local residents, and post-trip opportunities for students to express what they learned. To spread this innovative educational model, the initiative has been expanding its collaboration with various regions across Japan.

In recognition of its value, this educational approach received the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Award at the 2024 Good Design Awards.

The Journey Begins with Connections

This new educational model found its roots in a connection with Mr. Takafumi Nakagawa, a resident of Tsuno Town. Under his coordination, students participated in a unique project where each student became a