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Sakura Viewing – A Joyful Day of Community and Nature

Last Tuesday, the ARI community gathered at a nearby park to enjoy the beauty of Hanami, the traditional Japanese custom of cherry blossom viewing. Surrounded by blooming sakura trees and the gentle signs of spring, we shared a peaceful and joyful afternoon together. We laid out our lunch on the grass and enjoyed a simple meal in the heart of nature. The sound of laughter echoed through the park as we played soccer and other fun games that brought us closer together. It was not just a break from our … Read more

Do You Know? The Great Journey of Rural Community Leaders Vol. 4

Do you know how ARI participants go through the process of coming to Japan? ARI is currently running a four-part series following the participants’ journey to ARI as part of a Campaign.The last in this series is Kai Shinoda, a staff member in charge of recruitment at ARI.The participants’ journey to ARI was a great adventure, but the process on the ARI side, from selection to airline ticket arrangements, was also full of sweat and tears.  [Kai, ARI Admissions Staff]Kai Shinoda took a year off from university in 2020 to … Read more

Building Community Through Potato Sowing at ARI

Last week, the ARI community came together for an important seasonal activity – potato sowing! This marked a significant milestone for the newly arrived participants, as it was their first time working in ARI’s fields. Everyone took part in preparing the soil and planting the seeds that will grow into a bountiful harvest in July. Despite the chilly weather, the participants embraced the experience with enthusiasm. With guidance from ARI staff, they worked together efficiently, working together with energy and dedication. The sense of shared effort created a joyful and … Read more

A New Academic Year Begins: Welcoming the Participants for the 2025 ARI Rural Leadership Training Program

Today, April 1st, marks the beginning of the 2025 academic year at the Asian Rural Institute. The campus is once again full of life as we welcome 28 new Participants to the Rural Leaders Training Program and 2 Training Assistants. Over the next nine months, they will live and learn together, gaining hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture, servant leadership, community building and more. This year also brings a leadership transition. After 10 years of dedicated service as Director, Tomoko Arakawa is stepping back. She will continue supporting ARI in a … Read more

Spring Awakens at ARI as Participants prepare to Arrive

The air is warming, the trees are beginning to bud, and the land is stirring with new life. After the long winter, spring is finally making its way to ARI. The gentle shift in seasons reminds us of the deep connection we share with the soil, the food we grow, and the communities we nurture – principles that are at the heart of ARI’s mission. Our animals certainly feel the change. The goats, who spent much of the winter indoors, now happily roam outside, basking in the sunshine and nibbling … Read more

Director’s Report: Celebrating 10 Years as Director & Looking Ahead

“Director’s Report” A big surprise party carefully planned for me last night surprised me a lot!! I was incredibly delighted and moved! As I will finish my 10-year term as Director of ARI at the end of this month, and also to celebrate my birthday, ARI family members, and those who have helped me gather together without my knowledge! They celebrated with my favorite Korean food (Bibimbap + ARI pork BBQ + birthday Wakame seaweed soup), lots of sweets (all homemade in the Koinonia kitchen), and bouquets. (In fact, a … Read more

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Easter Travel Expenses Donation