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. Taku Noda
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 … Life・いのち」
Yotsuba Co-op, Ms. 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 … Everyone's Smile・みんなの笑顔」
Lawyer, Ms. Shinobu Awaya
Gathering around the dining table, eating delicious food, and having trivial conversations. I think such activities are important.
「Food is … Choice・選択」
DUARI (Doshisha University Asian Rural Institute), Mr. Ryosuke Taniguchi
What to eat. Where to eat. Who to eat with. Daily choices shape who I am today.
「Food is … Life with Dignity・尊厳あるいのち」
Obirin University, Rev. Jeffrey Mensendiek
For me, food is life with dignity. Food brings peace of mind and peace - it is fundamental to me.
「Food is … Nature・自然」
ARI Graduate, Hiroka Komatsubara
「Food is … Circulation・循環」
Bakery 'Rakuda' in Nasushiobara, Tochigi, Ms. 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 … Source of Life 命の糧」
Natural Farm Ureshipa Moshiri, Mr. Toru Sakawa
As organic farmers, we strive to work alongside our crops and livestock, allowing each to fully express their innate power and shine with life. We believe that receiving these vibrant beings as the “nourishment of life” gives us more than just physical nutrition. We believe that their radiant life force becomes the energy that allows us to live with love and peace, and to be our true selves.
「Food is … Thank you」
Kobe Union Church, Michael Shackleton
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)
Enjoy a tour and lunch on the ARI campus with our Mini Eco Tour program. At Asia Rural Institute, rural leaders from around the world gather to learn about sustainable living and community building. On the ARI Campus Mini Eco Tour you can experience a piece of ARI daily life. Learn about sustainability initiatives on our campus, and join us at the dining table.
※Transportation costs to Asia Rural Institute are at your own expenseScheduled: September & November
Peace from Food T-shirt
New Monthly Supporters Only
Start a new monthly donation and receive a seasonal T-shirt, with one of our most important summer vegetables emblazoned across it!Support ARI's peace-building efforts by wearing our cool swag.
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: S, 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.