KIWC runs JICA group training courses for developing countries on eco-tourism – an industry that supports the sustainable use of local natural and cultural heritage elements as tourist resources for regional development. In FY 2013, trainees from 16 countries attended two courses held between summer and autumn under commission from the JICA Hokkaido International Center (Obihiro).
The first course held from July 29 to September 2, 2013, was attended by eight staff working in tourism administration and related departments in Cambodia, India, Nepal, Palau, Senegal, Sri Lanka, Tonga and Vietnam.
Trainees learned about trekking outings and other types of tour in forests and mountainous areas around Lake Shikaribetsu, canoeing in consideration of wildlife, and tourism development leveraging local industry (e.g., agriculture and fisheries) in the Kushiro region.
The group also traveled to Japan’s main island of Honshu and the area to the south of it. In Tokyo and Kyoto, trainees learned about the utilization of traditional culture and historic sites and attended lectures and practical training sessions on theories of eco-tourism and other policies in Japan. In the Okinawa area of southern Japan, attendees observed how trips to coral reefs and mangrove forests helped revitalize local communities. KIWC Technical Committee Chair Mr. Hisashi Shinsho accompanied and supported the trainees as leader throughout the course.
As part of the trainee experience, social gatherings, home visits and other programs were also arranged with the volunteer support of local residents of Kushiro. Outside the busy schedule of the training, attendees had memorable experiences with their host families, trying on traditional Japanese cotton kimono, cooking Japanese food and engaging in other local cultural activities.
