News

“Nutritious meals nourish both body and soul.”So says Debora, an ARI graduate who now volunteers. She repeated these words carefully and emphatically, time and again.For Debora, eating is not merely an act of survival. It is a vital practice that cultivates inner peace. In a painting she created, vibrant fruits like mangoes, bananas, and dragon fruit—grown in her homeland of Indonesia—are vividly depicted.Being nourished—it nurtures not only the body but also the soul, and it creates connections between people. This simple yet truly vital lesson is what we are learning … Read more

We have uploaded more details about the Harvest Thanksgiving Celebration (HTC) on the following page. Please check it out! 53rd Harvest Thanksgiving Celebration (HTC) – Sowing the seed of love for a peaceful tomorrow – Asian Rural Institute Here is the information on the above page. Dates: October 18 & 19 (Sat & Sun) 10:00-15:30 Theme: Sowing the seed of love for a peaceful tomorrow Time Schedule: 10:00 Entry open 10:15-11:15 Harvest thanksgiving worship 11:30-15:30 Food stall, stage performances, games, etc. open Shuttle Buses: Departure from Nasushiobara Sta. West Exit … Read more

Cooking together, sharing laughter, and working hand in hand—a meal made with many hearts brings more than just nourishment. This month, the FEAST members, who regularly prepare delicious meals for the Koinonia Dining Hall,are leading an art project called “Cooking for Peace”  Through their artwork, they express the idea of peace through food.Each piece reflects a unique perspective—please take a moment to explore their creations! https://ari.ac.jp/peace-from-food-cooking-for-peace-vol-1/?ari=news

Associate Professor and University Chaplain, Rev. Jeffrey Mensendiek, at J. F. Oberlin University

In the heat and humidity of mid-summer, working outside on the farm becomes a great challenge — so much so, that ARI arranges its schedule to take advantage of cooler times. In July and August, weekdays start at 5am, a practice we call “Sunrise Farm”. Each morning, we harvest vegetables and pull weeds while it’s still cool, helping to reduce physical strain, then take a rest when the sun is strongest. Sometimes it’s tough heading out so early, but we’re happy to feel the soft glow of the rising sun, … Read more

Before ARI, Mako Masukawa once worked in the kitchen of a top restaurant in Kyoto. Now, she volunteers at ARI, helping with meal preparation.She shared: “If everyone could eat delicious food, I don’t think wars would happen.” When she worked in high-end cuisine, Mako was always busy and had to push herself through work, even when experiencing deep frustration. After a certain point, she asked herself, “Was this the kind of cooking I truly wanted?” That moment led her to the decision to come to ARI. Now, as a volunteer, … Read more

Rika Mezura of Yotsuba Co-op

“Food can make you happy just by looking at it.”This is what Peace from Food means to Thi Thi, a member of the ARI team from Myanmar, working in FEAST (Food Education and Sustainable Table). Thi Thi’s drawings of vegetables and flowers reflect her hometown’s rich food culture and her heartfelt appreciation for the beauty of cuisine. “The cook’s feelings reflect directly in the taste of the food.”Her message connects you, your food, and your loved ones. “First, it’s important that you, yourself, feel it’s delicious. Because that connects to … Read more

Recently, we held a community event at the ARI, visiting a river and waterfall together.It was a beautiful day to refresh our minds and bodies in the embrace of nature, surrounded by friends and shared moments. In the midst of our busy daily lives, we are grateful for the opportunity to slow down and connect—with nature and with each other. As the hot days continue, we hope you’re staying well and taking good care of yourselves.