【Supporters’ Voices for Nahoko Osawa of ‘Karatachi’ (Minamata Host in Western Japan Study Tour)】
2026/8/10 20:00
When you think of the sea, what comes to your mind?
Today, we are thrilled to share a supporter’s voice from Nahoko Osawa of "Karatachi", who has been graciously hosting our Western Japan Study Tour in Minamata City, Kumamoto!
"More than 40 years have passed since we first began hosting participants from ARI here in Minamata. As my parents grew older, I stepped in to carry on their legacy. When the ARI participants come here to learn from Minamata, I feel that I'm not just teaching those who are present but also reaching the countless people standing behind them in their home communities. It is truly a deeply rewarding experience. As long as ARI continues to visit Minamata, I want to keep our doors open and welcome them."
"Karatachi" was founded by Nahoko’s parents to support Minamata disease patients, through cultivating and selling organic citrus fruits.
This year marks the significant 70th anniversary since Minamata disease was officially recognized. This summer, why not take a moment to learn more about Minamata, its history, and its journey?
🚌Please support us to make the Western Japan Study Tour a reality!
Give 22 Rural Community Leaders from Around the World a Chance to Learn from "Pain and Rebirth"!
世界の農村コミュニティリーダー22名に「痛みと再生」を学ぶチャンスを！あなたの寄付が隣人とやさしく生きる世界を作ります。
"Fuel for 1 Student to Travel 1 Day to the Field"
1,000円
Fuel support to move the minibus 25 km forward (or parking fees/miscellaneous costs for safe parking and rest stops).
Fuel cost (¥40/km) × 25 km. An accessible tier that directly supports a student’s daily travel, as well as safe parking and rest during the journey.
"Safe Infrastructure Support for the 3,000 km Journey"
3,000円
Highway toll and parking fee support for safe long-distance travel (or fuel costs for 75 km).
Covers 75 km worth of fuel or practical expenses needed to secure a safe driving environment (highways and parking facilities) throughout the trip.
"Highway Tolls for 1 Participant across the Entire 3,000 km Journey"
5,000円
Highway toll fees for 1 participant to travel safely and on schedule to training sites across Western Japan.
By easing the physical strain of long-distance travel, this creates an environment where participants can focus 100% on their hands-on experiences and dialogue at each destination.
"Overnight Ferry & Warm Breakfast Support for 1 Participant"
10,000円
Ferry fare (bed accommodation) between Osaka and Moji plus breakfast for 1 participant.
Crucial support to help participants stay healthy and well-rested during long travel, ensuring they reach their next training site in peak condition.
"Microbus Rental Fee for 1 Day (A Mobile Learning Hub)"
30,000円
Equivalent to approximately 1 day of vehicle rental out of the total ¥400,000 minibus rental cost.
Secures 1 day of a "classroom on wheels" where active discussion and reflection take place on the road, supporting meaningful growth and mutual inspiration among participants.
"Full Travel Expenses for 1 Participant to Complete the Western Japan Study Tour (3,000 km)"
50,000円
All transportation costs for 1 student to complete the 3,000 km Western Japan Study Tour (bus rental portion, fuel, highway tolls, ferry, and parking fees).
Comprehensive support that backs the entire journey of a participant confronting real-world issues in the field and growing into a leader who transforms themselves to transform the world.
"1/4 of the Microbus Rental Cost Connecting Learning Sites Across Western Japan"
100,000円
Covers 25% of the ¥400,000 total minibus rental cost.
This major support underpins the foundational infrastructure of the project, strongly sustaining the mobility essential for all participants to travel, learn, and connect across Western Japan.
