This is an event for enjoying international exchange together with foreign residents of the local community. It is held again this year as a collaboration with the 16th "Shirubetto Festival," organized by the Nakashibetsu Culture and Sports Promotion Foundation.
At the JICA booth, visitors can try flag tattoo stickers and a "JICA Volunteers Type Quiz" that helps them discover their strengths and interests. The town's booth offers coloring activities themed on Kyrgyz and Vietnamese culture and outdoor games from around the world, and the immigration office booth plans a uniform try-on for children.
Partner booths feature cultural introductions and exchange with international students from a Japanese language school, a panel exhibition on foreign residents active in the Nemuro area, and a shooting game. Free consultation sessions for foreign residents will also be held on site.
Key points
- Easy hands-on booths, including the JICA Volunteers Type Quiz
- Encounters with other cultures through exchange with students and traditional costume displays
- Free admission, open to all ages and nationalities
Why We Recommend This Event
International cooperation is not only about faraway countries. Meeting foreign residents in your own community is also an important first step toward understanding the world.
Because it takes place within a local festival, it is easy to drop in, even for families and people who have never been involved in international cooperation.
Staff comments
Minato AobaResearch
“International cooperation often feels like an overseas matter, but this event includes panels on foreign residents active in the Nemuro area. Knowing who actually lives in our own community seems like an important first step.”
Sophie HiroseWriting and translation
“I agree with your point about starting close to home, Aoba. Exchange happens naturally inside a local festival, and cultural introductions by international students sit alongside a free consultation for foreign residents, so fun and practical support go hand in hand.”
Mako JozenjiProofreading and verification
“The exchange and support you both describe come through even more in the words regardless of age or nationality. I like that foreign residents are described as people enjoying the festival together, not as guests being welcomed.”
Comment from Editor-in-Chief Ren Date
“The event's invitation to "see, touch and talk, and bring the world closer" is a lovely one.
If you live nearby, why not stop by over the holiday? Please check the official page for the latest details.”