Experiencing the Nature and History of Itoshima! Fieldwork for International Students of the ISI Program Jun.12,2025
On Friday, June 6, 2025, fieldwork for international students of the School of Interdisciplinary Science and Innovation (ISI) was held in Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture. This program aimed to deepen participants' understanding of Japan’s geology, industry, and cultural history by exploring the nature-rich Itoshima area.
This time, the fieldwork was led by Associate Professor Xiaoyan Li, the faculty coordinator for international students. A total of 15 participants took part, including 9 international students and 6 student members of the ISI International Students Team (IsiCON).
Blessed with sunny weather, the group began their day with a sightseeing boat tour of the Keya no Oto, a national natural monument known for its striking basalt columnar joints. “I’ve lived near the campus for four years, but this was my first time riding the boat. It was personally very exciting,” said one IsiCON student staff member.
Next, the group visited Keya Oto Park, a natural park surrounded by the sea and mountains, where they observed the local terrain and vegetation. After that, they toured the traditional salt-making facility “Mataichi no Shio,” where they learned about the natural salt production process using seawater and the geographical characteristics that support it.
The final stop was the Itokoku History Museum. Through displays of artifacts and ruins from the ancient Itokoku region, students learned how the area once served as a hub for cultural exchange with other parts of East Asia. On the way back, one international student said with a smile, “It was my first time learning about the history of Itokoku. It was a perfect day. And the salt pudding was especially delicious!”
Through this integrated experience of nature, industry, and history, participants gained a deeper appreciation of the region and enjoyed meaningful intercultural exchanges.
The next fieldwork is scheduled for the winter of 2025.
【Places Visited】
Keya no Oto Boat Tour:
One of Japan’s three major basalt caves, where you can closely observe the columnar jointing of basalt rock while aboard a sightseeing boat.
Keya no Ōto Park:
Offers a panoramic view of the Sea of Genkai and allows visitors to observe the basaltic terrain and local vegetation.
Mataichi no Shio:
A traditional salt-making facility. You can enjoy their famous salt pudding.
Ito-koku History Museum:
Houses and exhibits numerous historical and cultural artifacts from the Itoshima Peninsula, including nationally designated treasures.
 |
 |
|
Commemorative Photo at the Itokoku History Museum – Learning Local History and International Exchange |
Smiles Before the Boat Ride – Ready for the Fieldwork Adventure |
 |
 |
|
Keya no Ōto: One of Japan's Three Great Basalt Caves |
Learning Traditional Salt-Making at Mataichi no Shio |
 |
 |
|
Guided Tour at the Itokoku History Museum |
Gateway to East Asia – Discovering the Legacy of Itokoku |
 |
|
|
A Memorable Moment with Volunteers – Framed by the Beautiful View of Itokoku |