Hidden Opportunity Pursuit (HOP)
Creating opportunities for students to deepen their understanding of Japanese culture and business
In alignment with the recognition of traditional Japanese sake brewing as a UNESCO Intangible World Heritage, Hitotsubashi University partnered with Tokyo Regional Taxation Bureau, Katori City, and Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) to launch a project-based learning module on this culturally significant topic. This program engages students in discussions with company executives and employees to explore the opportunities and challenges faced by Japanese sake breweries. Students also develop innovative strategies to enhance global outreach and promote international appreciation of local tourism involving sake breweries. For more information, refer to the program descriptions.
Site Visit Schedule (Early March)
*subject to change due to weather condition and site availability
Day 1 |
Team Building/Orientation/Interview Planning (on HU Campus) |
Day 2 |
AM：Bus from Kodaira to Nabedana Sake Brewery in Kozaki, Chiba
PM: Brewery Visit, Interview with CEO, Sake Tasting (Overnight Stay at a traditional Farmhouse) |
Day 3 |
AM: Tourism Center Visit and Interview in Sawara, Chiba PM：Sawara Historic Town Walk/Integration Time for Proposal Preparation Return Home |
Student Presentations (Late March)
March 26, 2024
- Reflection Movie on Sake Brewery Visit [PDF] [Watch on YouTube]
- Promoting International Travelers to Katori Region [PDF]
- Food and Sake Pairing Ideas from Overseas Perspectives [PDF]
- Student Participants/Credits [PDF]
Media Coverage
- Nikkei Online (March 8, 2024)
- Chiba Daily (March 15, 2024)
- FNN Live News α (March 26, 2024)
- JETRO Global Eye (June 6, 2024)
