Day 9 - Day 21: Educational Innovation and Cultural Exploration in Nagasaki

Day 9: Traveling from Maebashi to Nagasaki

• Take a bullet train (called Shinkansen train), path through, major Japanese sightseeing spots like Mt. Fuji, Kyoto, Osaka and Fukuoka. 

• Stay at visitor's housing of Nagasaki University 

Day 10 -20: Engaging in intercultural learning experiences through collaboration 

While in Nagasaki, you will participate in various cultural and learning activities. Here are the highlights of some of the planned activities. 

• Visit a local elementary school: Support interactive learning activities with students, gaining firsthand experience in Japanese education.

• Enjoy drawing traditional Japanese painting: Under the guidance of Professor Makino, an artist and educator who specializes in Nihonga (Japanese painting), you will have the special opportunity to: 

  • • learn the techniques and philosophy behind traditional Japanese painting. 

    • explore the use of natural pigments, brushes and paper. 

• Discovery Days: Embark on self-guided adventures through the city, exploring hidden gems and cultural landmarks at your own pace.

• Weekend Excursion in Shimabara City:  

  • •  Visit to Gamadasu Dorm Museum: Learn how Shimabara’s communities have lived side by side with active volcanoes for generations. This unique museum introduces how people harness the benefits of volcanic activity—such as fertile land and natural hot springs—while also developing strategies to mitigate and adapt to natural disasters.

    •  Fugendake/Unzen Exploration: Take a guided hike around the Unzen volcanic area, gaining firsthand insight into the geological forces that shaped the region.

    • Tanada Rice Terraces: Experience the stunning Tanada (terraced rice fields) and discover how traditional farming methods have adapted to the landscape created by volcanic activity.

    • Wild Dolphin Watching: Enjoy an unforgettable boat ride to observe wild dolphins in their natural environment along the nearby coast, learning about the connection between the ocean ecosystem and local communities.
      
      

Through this excursion, students will explore how people and nature coexist in a volcanic region, deepening their understanding of resilience, sustainability, and community life in rural Japan.

• Immersive Cultural Journeys: Experience Nagasaki’s rich history and traditions through two exciting day trips.

Day 21: Departing from Nagasaki