For my CIP, I joined Wasshoi, a circle at Kyoto University focused on agricultural activities, community engagement and rural revitalization in the small but beautiful village of Miyama. Together with a group of core members, I traveled to this village bimonthly to participate in activities such as edamame harvesting, building a corn maze for kids and harvesting thatch for a local renovation project!

Though this was a massive time commitment, my experiences in Miyama were among the highlights of my semester at KCJS. Between sobering conversations about rural life and late nights bonding as a group, I can confidently say that being able to connect with fellow college students, local farmers and children alike was an invaluable opportunity that taught me a lot about rural Japanese community and culture.

I would definitely say don’t be afraid to look outside of the provided CIP list! If there’s a group or club that really interests you, reach out! Chances are the first one you find won’t work out, but don’t be afraid to keep trying; it paid off for me! For anybody interested in rural agricultural work like this and willing to commit several of their weekend days, I wholeheartedly recommend Wasshoi. They welcomed me with open arms, and I’m glad to consider many of them my friends. I only wish I had more time to see what they do next!