Discovering Independence: Furetabi's Unique Summer Camp Experience in Amami Oshima

In an effort to empower children and broaden their horizons, Meiko Network Japan, a company known for its individualized learning programs, has launched a unique summer camp program called "Super Camp Master in Amami Oshima". Designed for students above the third grade with prior camp experiences, the event not only aims to provide children with enriching experiences but also emphasizes their self-reliance.

Held in Amami Oshima, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the camp's premise centered on letting kids spend three days away from their families. This premium camp, a first for Furetabi, utilized air travel to ensure participants could enjoy immersive outdoor activities in small groups.

The objective behind this initiative was to encourage children to explore the world outside their immediate surroundings and realize that new landscapes and choices await them beyond their familiar environment. Nestled within the lush natural surroundings of Amami Island, the program aspired to teach children the importance of self-initiative, teamwork, and interdependence through diverse fun activities that ignite natural curiosity and nurture self-growth.

Throughout the camp, children engaged in a variety of hands-on experiences that connected them to the rich culture and environment of Amami. They were taught about local ecological systems, immersing themselves in the abundance of nature while learning crucial life lessons. For instance, activities like mud-dyeing allowed them to engage in traditional crafts, using natural materials inspired by their surroundings. Additionally, they were able to taste and understand different local cuisines, providing them with a unique lens through which to reassess their own daily experiences.

The camp emphasized the importance of collaboration; it was structured to ensure each participant had the opportunity to communicate, suggest plans, and make joint decisions. This collaborative environment fostered critical skills such as leadership, independence, and empathy—the very qualities that are essential for personal growth and social development. By thoughtfully navigating through the challenges of team dynamics, children learned to trust their instincts while valuing their peers' perspectives.

Feedback from the participants has been overwhelmingly positive. One child expressed their excitement over catching shrimp in the chilly river, while another marveled at the stunning views of the ocean from the airplane. Campers recounted their experiences of canoeing through mangroves, noting the physical challenge but enjoying it nonetheless. Others were thrilled by unique animal sightings, such as the Amami black rabbit, underscoring the program's connection to the local ecosystem.

In order to facilitate a fruitful learning environment, Furetabi also conducted reflection sessions, allowing campers to discuss their thoughts and prepare for the next day's experiences. The camp was fortunate to have great weather throughout, enabling children to fully embrace outdoor activities and explore nature in its full glory.

Future of Furetabi

Looking ahead, Meiko Network Japan aims to continue providing programs that offer authentic and meaningful experiences through travel and educational activities. Furetabi remains committed to exploring additional opportunities for children to gain real-life insights and develop skills that will help them visualize their futures more clearly.
Through specialized tours that focus on immersive learning rather than conventional sightseeing, Furetabi enables children to transform their "I want to do this!" into a reality. The initiatives are collectively crafted, taking into account the voices and desires of children, parents, Furetabi staff, and the people involved in the activities.

Overall, Furetabi’s summer camp experience in Amami Oshima serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-exploration, environmental connection, and building teamwork skills at a young age—creating a foundation for bright futures ahead.