2024 Activity Report vol.14:Shimane University

From November 19 to 25, a program titled "Geology and Geotourism Exchange Program Utilizing the Shimane Peninsula and Shinjiko Nakaumi Estuary Geopark" was held at the Matsue Campus of Shimane University. Seven graduate students and two faculty members from Tribhuvan University in Nepal were invited to participate in the program.

Day 1: Opening Ceremony and Campus Tour:

The program officially began on November 20. Following the opening ceremony in the morning, participants attended a program orientation. In the afternoon, they joined two lectures introducing the geology and geography of Shimane and participated in a campus tour led by the Shimane University Ambassadors, a student group.

Day 2: Lectures and Excursion at the Geopark:

On November 21, morning lectures on the Shimane Peninsula and Shinjiko Nakaumi Estuary Geopark were delivered by faculty members from Shimane University. In the afternoon, participants embarked on an excursion at geopark sites in the Shimane Peninsula. The excursion offered an opportunity to explore topics covered in the lectures. Participants actively engaged in on-site discussions and asked many questions. For many Nepali participants, it was their first time seeing the ocean up close. They expressed great excitement and even enjoyed along the shoreline after the discussions.

Day 3: Excursion to the Izumo Region:

On November 22, the group conducted an excursion to the Izumo region, visiting sites such as Izumo Grand Shrine, Inasa-no-hama Beach, Hamayama Sand Dunes, and the Hiikawa River. They explored the connections between natural landform development, human activities, and the cultural heritage rooted in the region.

Day 4: A Short Trip to Matsue City:

On November 23, participants toured Matsue City, visiting Matsue Castle and enjoying a boat tour around the castle's moat (Horikawa cruise). Matsue, a city historically prone to flooding, offered an educational opportunity to learn about disaster prevention measures and the area's geographic features. The day also allowed participants to immerse themselves in Matsue's rich culture.

Day 5: Mini-Workshop:

On November 24, a mini-workshop was held. During the morning session, participants presented what they had learned during their stay, focusing on geopark sites that had left a strong impression on them. Their passionate presentations reflected a deep interest in geotourism and geoparks. In the afternoon, lectures by faculty members from Tribhuvan University and a presentation by Shimane University students were held. The presentations on student-led activities at the geopark garnered keen interest from both the visiting professors and students. Additionally, presentations by international students studying at Shimane University sparked lively discussions about their research topics. The day concluded with a networking event where participants enjoyed local Matsue cuisine while discussing future academic opportunities, including studying abroad.

Day 6: Visit to the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan):

On November 25, the group traveled to Tokyo and visited the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan). Enthralled by the museum's interactive and visual exhibits, participants spent as much time as possible exploring and learning. That evening, after a week of enriching experiences, the participants departed from Haneda Airport for Kathmandu.
A post-program Zoom meeting was held on 13 December, during which participants discussed the future of geotourism in both countries.

Many participants expressed a strong desire to return to Japan, either for further study or another visit. Their enthusiasm left the program organizer delighted and hopeful for future reunions. The program successfully fostered a deeper interest in Japan and its culture among the participants, leaving organizers eager to welcome them back someday. It also provided an excellent opportunity for international interaction for Shimane University students. As the organizer, I hope they will continue communicating with each other and look forward to their future visits to Japan.