The 2025 science training program under the WOW (Wonder of the World) initiative has begun. This year, 24 students from grades 1 to 3 are participating in a study tour in Hokkaido.

The group gathered at Itami Airport and departed for Hokkaido. For some first-year students, it was their first time flying, and although they appeared a bit nervous before departure, they safely arrived at New Chitose Airport. Upon arrival, they enjoyed lunch, choosing from local specialties such as ramen and seafood bowls, experiencing Hokkaido’s famous cuisine.

The main program on the first day was an agricultural study session at KUBOTA AGRI FRONT in F Village. After learning about the current state and challenges of modern agriculture through exhibits and videos, students participated in a team-based agricultural management simulation game. Over a five-year simulation, rankings changed frequently, creating an exciting competition that remained unpredictable until the very end.

Students also toured cutting-edge agricultural facilities where environments are controlled by AI and robotics. They observed the cultivation of asparagus and strawberries, as well as robots capable of producing 150 heads of romaine lettuce daily indoors. These glimpses into the future of agriculture sparked great interest among the students. The session concluded with a reflective activity while enjoying simple salted rice balls, allowing students to appreciate the value of food.

Additionally, as no game was scheduled at ES CON Field in F Village, the group was given special access to tour the stadium. The state-of-the-art design, reminiscent of Major League ballparks, excited even those students who are not usually interested in baseball.

Afterward, the group traveled by bus for about two hours to Asahikawa City. Dinner featured a variety of local Hokkaido ingredients, including grilled pork shoulder, “zangi” (Hokkaido-style fried chicken), shrimp and scallop salad, locally grown “Nanatsuboshi” rice, and Hokkaido milk pudding.

The first day in Hokkaido, surrounded by crisp air and snow-covered landscapes, marked a fulfilling start to the program. More hands-on science activities are planned for the second and third days.