• Morning: Candle-making workshop at Katsuyama Nature School, where students enjoyed hands-on experiences in nature, followed by a barbecue lunch outdoors.

• Afternoon: Visit to the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum, one of the world’s three major dinosaur museums. Students were astonished by the exhibits and cutting-edge displays.

• Morning: Firewood splitting and pizza-making, paired with wild vegetable rice and river play — a joyful immersion in rural life.

• Afternoon: Chopstick polishing workshop to create personalized chopsticks, followed by sightseeing at National Treasure Myōtsū-ji Temple, often called “Little Kyoto.”

• Evening: Taking advantage of the fine weather, teachers led students to the beach to set off fireworks. The sparkling lights illuminated the night sky, creating unforgettable memories of youth.

• Morning: Mikata Five Lakes Nature Cruise on the world’s only battery-powered propulsion boat, plus panoramic views from the mountaintop park.

• Afternoon: Mochi-pounding experience and rice field weeding, followed by shopping at the local supermarket Plant 2.

• Morning: Fish filleting experience in the Nyu Area, preparing sashimi, grilled fish, and seafood soup for lunch.

• Afternoon: Hands-on lacquer painting at Urushi no Sato Kaikan (photo frames) and papermaking at Echizen Washi Village, producing handmade postcards.

• Morning: Guided sightseeing in Tsuruga City by students of Tsuruga High School, including Kehi Jingu Shrine and local shopping streets.

• Afternoon: Visit to Tsuruga High School for cultural exchange — speeches, souvenir exchange, and a school tour strengthened bonds between students. Local press and media also attended, interviewing the students and reporting on the exchange, which reflected the value Fukui placed on welcoming visitors from Hong Kong.

Evening: A final debriefing session was held where all students and teachers gathered together to share their most unforgettable moments from the trip. Each participant spoke about their highlights, and souvenirs brought from Hong Kong were presented to the tour leaders and homestay hosts as tokens of gratitude.

Conclusion

The Joint School Fukui Environmental and Cultural Study Tour 2026 was a vibrant and meaningful journey. Students gained deeper appreciation of Fukui’s natural environment, traditional crafts, and cultural heritage. The highlight was the heartfelt exchange with Tsuruga High School, where friendships and mutual understanding blossomed.

We extend our gratitude to the teachers, local guides, and host institutions for their support and hospitality. This trip not only broadened horizons but also nurtured cultural respect and environmental awareness. We look forward to offering more opportunities for students to engage in such enriching experiences in the future.