[Topics] From Nighttime Insect Observation to Tree Bingo! Students of Ookawauchi Elementary School in Shiiba Village Experience an Overnight Experiential Learning Program at the Shiiba Research Forest.

From July 2 to 3, 2026, an overnight experiential learning program was held at the Shiiba Research Forest for all nine students of Ookawauchi Elementary School in Shiiba Village, Miyazaki Prefecture.

Located deep in the Kyushu Mountains, Ookawauchi Elementary School is a small school with only nine students. The nearest convenience store is nearly an hour away by car, and the school serves as an irreplaceable center of learning for the local community. This program is conducted annually as part of a collaborative initiative between the Shiiba Research Forest and Ookawauchi Elementary School, located near the Shiiba Research Forest.

The first evening began with a special curry dinner prepared collaboratively by the students, creating a joyful and memorable start to the overnight program. Later that night, a light trap was set up on the roof of the office building to attract insects. Using field guides to insects and magnifying glasses, the students observed and identified the various insects collected. They were fascinated by the nighttime forest creatures they do not usually encounter.

After spending the night in the student lodge at the Shiiba Research Forest, the students headed into the forest the next day to participate in a "Tree Bingo Game." Working in groups, they searched for nine designated tree species and filled out their bingo sheets while examining the characteristics of each species. Comparing leaf shapes, carefully observing both sides of leaves with magnifying glasses, and discussing their findings with their teammates, the students deepened their understanding of the diversity of forest trees while enjoying the activity.

Following the experiential learning program, the students shared positive comments such as, "I learned a lot more about the nature in my hometown," and "I have grown to love my hometown even more." They also expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the experience.

The Shiiba Research Forest has supported experiential learning activities for Ookawauchi Elementary School for many years. The school's unique hands-on learning programs, which make extensive use of the university forest as an educational field site, have received high praise from the local community and have even been recognized by the Miyazaki Prefectural Board of Education. The Shiiba Research Forest will continue to strengthen collaboration with local educational institutions as an open field for education and research, while fostering curiosity and a spirit of inquiry among the next generation through nature-based learning experiences.

Contact

Kyushu University Forests　Shiiba Research Forest Website