Eating Together is the
First Step towards Peace
"That all people in the world, without exception,
may experience the joy of sharing at a rich table"
(Toshihiro Takami, Founder of the Asian Rural Institute)
Walk through our gardens and kitchens and get to know the Asian Rural Institute
Through this campaign,
get to know the Asian Rural Institute more deeply,
and walk with us.
The story begins here
Founded in 1973 in Nasushiobara, Tochigi Prefecture, the Asian Rural Institute
has welcomed future leaders from rural regions
across Asia and Africa for over 50 years.
Participating Countries & Regions
Diverse cultures gathering from across Asia and Africa
Graduates
Rural leaders active around the world
People Impacted
Each graduate changes the lives of 1,000 people
Stories from Graduates of Walking towards Peace from Food
Cooking for Peace from Food Series Blog
What does food mean to me?
We share thoughts about food from our supporters.
「Food is … Relief・安心」
SCF Secretary, Rev. Nodasawa
I was once affected by an earthquake disaster and couldn't eat. In winter, I ate a retort hamburger cold. For life. When I first ate a warm meal, I unconsciously cried. Warm meals give deep peace of mind to both body and soul.
「Food is … Choice・選択」
DUARI (Doshisha University Asian Rural Institute), Ryosuke Taniguchi
What to eat. Where to eat. Who to eat with. Daily choices shape who I am today.
「Food is … Circulation・循環」
Bakery 'Rakuda' in Nasushiobara, Tochigi, Mina Yamashita
What builds my body. And when it leaves the body, it returns to nature. I want to choose good things both for what enters my body and what returns to nature.
「Food is … Life・いのち」
Yotsuba Co-op, Rika Mezura
For me, food is what builds the heart and body. Local production for local consumption means creating peace of mind. I believe food security means not only safety, but also being able to trace its background.
「Food is … Life with Dignity・尊厳あるいのち」
Obirin University, Jeffrey Mensendiek
For me, food is life with dignity. Food brings peace of mind and peace - it is fundamental to me.
「Food is … Everyone's Smile・みんなの笑顔」
Lawyer, Shinobu Awaya
Gathering around the dining table, eating delicious food, and having trivial conversations. I think such activities are important.
「Food is … Thank you」
Kobe Union Church, Michael Shackleton
「Food is … Nature・自然」
ARI Graduate, Hiroka Komatsubara
Will you join us in building peace from food?
Donation Campaign Participation Benefits
As a token of our gratitude to everyone who participates in the campaign, we have prepared special benefits.
Invitation to Koinonia Meal
Campus Mini Eco Tour (September & November)
We invite those who donate through this campaign site during the period to our mini eco tour.
At the Asian Rural Institute, rural leaders from around the world gather to learn about sustainable living and community building. The "ARI Campus Mini Eco Tour" gives you a chance to experience the daily life of the institute.
Learn about the sustainable campus and join us at the dining table.
※Transportation costs to the Asian Rural Institute are at your own expense
Peace from Food T-shirt
New Monthly Supporters Only
We will present a T-shirt to those who newly support us with recurring donations through this campaign site during the period.
By wearing it, participate in ARI's peace-building efforts.
Original Design T-shirt
We are also offering this to those who are already monthly supporters at the base price plus shipping. If you are interested, please let us know.
Contact: [email protected]
Details about Benefits
About Mini Eco Tour
- • Schedule will be announced separately
- • Limited capacity
- • Rain or shine (indoor program if necessary)
- • Lunch (Koinonia) included
About T-shirt
- • Sizes: M, L, XL
- • Color: Harvest Gold
- • Material: 100% Cotton
- • Shipping scheduled for around September
Frequently Asked Questions
Your support
nurtures rural
community leaders
who change the world.
When one student brings their learning back to their community, 1,000 people behind them can benefit from it.
Peace begins from the dining table.
Welcome to our table.
There's a seat for you.
Scroll to enjoy the dining scenes
Welcome to Koinonia.
Join our diverse community and share a story together.Peace begins from the dining table.