News

On Sunday, the ARI community rose early to gather for an Easter celebration at sunrise, following the biblical description of Jesus’ resurrection being discovered at dawn. As the first light of day spread across the fields, we came together in song, prayer, and reflection, marking the joy and hope of new life. The celebration continued with snacks and warm fellowship, filled with the spirit of community, gratitude, and the deep meaning of Easter – a reminder of life triumphing over death, hope over despair, and the power of sharing our … Read more

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

2025.04.12.

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

On April 4, my first trip as Managing Director, I was invited to speak at the new semester staff orientation and staff training at Ai-No-Gakuen Agricultural High School in Iga, Mie Prefecture. https://ainogakuen.ed.jp/ Ai-No Gakuen High School is the smallest Christian agricultural high school in Japan (25 students per grade), a boarding school that started as a private school right after WWII. Upon entering the open grounds with no gates or walls, you find a wooden school building, cafeteria, library, staff housing, and a row of fields and livestock barns … Read more

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