Postscript to the Japan Cultural Exchange and Study Tour

The Japan Cultural Exchange and Study Tour is a collaborative project between the Libraries of Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Ming Hua Theological College and the Rissho University of Japan. It aims to promote innovative experiential learning initiative, by integrating cultural heritage information with leisure learning within library information education activities. Staff representative from the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Archives had a chance participate in the study tour.

This cultural exchange and study program serves as the inaugural pilot tour. The five-day activity runs from November 10 to 14, 2025. Our group of 10 departed Hong Kong for Japan on the morning of November 10.  Participants included staff from the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Ming Hua Theological College, St. Stephen's College, Sheng Kung Hui Kei Yan Primary School, Heep Yunn Primary School and the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Archives; congregation member of the Sheng Kung Hui Grace Church; and library staff from the Hong Kong Shue Yan University and the Education University of Hong Kong. Upon arrival in Japan, we visited different institutions in Ogawa Town (Kumagaya) and Tokyo.

The study exchange program officially commenced on November 11 under the theme “Experiential Learning: Local Cultural Innovation and Sustainable Development of Cultural Heritage”. The itinerary included:

This cultural exchange study tour was a unique learning journey filled with invaluable experiences and insights. It allowed us to deepen our understanding and appreciation of Japan's history, traditional culture, and music. Japan places great importance on its traditional culture, actively preserving and safeguarding it, while simultaneously embracing open-minded new perspectives and ideas, demonstrating boundless creativity. By implementing innovative teaching philosophies and methodologies, coupled with comfortable learning environments, technology, and diverse advanced facilities, Japan strives to enable learners to absorb knowledge through varied approaches and settings. Each individual gains insights and achievements, then leverages their strengths to attain the highest educational goals and maximum effectiveness. The professionalism and enthusiasm of local staff are also highly commendable.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Ming Hua Theological College Library and the Rissho University Library in Japan for their meticulous arrangements and coordination of this exchange program. This enriching and meaningful visit broadened our horizons and proved immensely beneficial. Furthermore, the exchange activities strengthened the ties between the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui and Japan's Rissho University and Rikkyo University, paving the way for future collaboration opportunities. We look forward to applying what have learned to the future development and daily operations of our Archives.

Michelle Lin

Executive Assistant of HKSKH Archives

8 December 2025

Ogawa: Washi Paper-making Workshop

Visit to Ogawa Public Library

Ogawa Historical Site (The Oldest House)

 Taisho Koto (Japanese Musical Instrument) Experience

 Rissho University Library (Kumagaya)

Rissho University Rare Book Library (Tokyo) &

Stitched Bookbinding Workshop

Rikkyo University Archives (Anglican Church)

Teikyo University Library

Ichigaya Letterpress Factory, Tokyo: Movable Type Workshop