NERS NEWS – Fukuoka, Japan, July 18–20, 2026. A delegation from the Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga (FKp Unair) participated in a series of cultural and historical city tours in and around Fukuoka, Japan, from July 18 to 20, 2026. This activity was part of the Student Outbound program in collaboration with the Japanese Red Cross Kyushu International College of Nursing (JRCKICN), providing experiential learning beyond the academic setting through educational visits, historical and cultural exploration, and direct observation of Japanese society and environment.
The program commenced on Saturday (18/07/2026) with an educational visit to the Mojiko Retro District. The delegation learned about the history and development of Moji Port as one of Japan’s first international trading ports, observed the preservation of historic buildings, and gained insights into integrating heritage sites with local tourism and the economy. The group then traveled by train to Kokura Station to observe Japan’s public transportation system, followed by a cultural visit to Kokura Castle to explore local cultural festivals and heritage preservation efforts as an educational tourism destination.
On Sunday (19/07/2026), the delegation visited Miyajidake Shrine. This visit provided students with an opportunity to learn about the culture and history of Shinto shrines, observe traditional architecture, and understand cultural heritage preservation and tourism management. On Monday (20/07/2026), the activities continued with a visit to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine to study Japanese religious history, culture, and traditions, alongside observing heritage preservation through architecture and local community activities. On the same day, the delegation held an evaluation and discussion session in preparation for their upcoming schedule.
The cultural and historical city tour aimed to broaden students’ perspectives through firsthand experience with Japanese history, culture, transportation, and daily life. It also supports the objectives of the Student Outbound program by creating learning opportunities through academic engagement and cultural exchange, while fostering adaptability and a global mindset among nursing students.
Furthermore, this initiative aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education through direct international learning and cultural immersion. It also contributes to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by providing insights into the preservation of historical sites, cultural heritage, and destination management integrated with local economy and community life.
Through these visits, students are expected not only to gain firsthand experience with Japanese history and culture, but also to develop adaptability, global perspectives, and cross-cultural understanding to enhance their competencies as future nursing professionals in an international environment.
Author: Sandrina Humairah
Editor: Farah Dina Azizatul Aulia (Airlangga Nursing Journalist)
