IPB University PSL Guest Lecture: Prof Koji Harashina Shares Experience of Agritourism Management in Japan

Ahead of the Midterm Examination, the Masters program of Natural Resources and Environmental Management Science (PSL), IPB University Graduate School held a Guest Lecture, Monday (3/2). This activity was part of the lecture on Agro-Eco-Cultural Tourism Management Policy (PSL1636) and took place in a hybrid manner in the Mawar Room, IPB Baranangsiang Campus, Bogor.

Prof Koji Harashina, Associate Dean of The United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences (UGAS), Iwate University, Japan was present as a guest lecturer. Acting as the host was Prof Hadi Susilo Arifin, in addition to being the coordinator lecturer of PSL1636, as well as the Chairman of the PSL Master Program.

Prof Hadi in his introductory lecture explained the Master Plan of Agro-eco-edu Tourism Village in Bantar Agung Village, Majalengka. It is a research project material in collaboration with the Damandiri Foundation which was developed before the COVID-19 pandemic.

The master plan was organized based on 3D design. 

The research project was conducted with field surveys, as well as zoning analysis to optimize the landscape, cultural and economic potential of the village. In addition, Prof Hadi also explained the concept of promoting this area as a tourist destination based on rural nature and agriculture.

Furthermore, Prof Harashina discussed agritourism management in Iwate Prefecture, Japan, including the conservation of traditional agricultural land. “The preservation of traditional rice fields and irrigation ponds involving local residents and various parties can be a valuable agritourism experience for participants who want to understand sustainable agricultural practices,” explained Harashina.

The concept of satoyama-satoumi was also presented as a local wisdom in conserving agricultural, forest and marine biodiversity. Satoyama-satoumi has received designation from FAO as Globally Important Heritage Agriculture (GIAHS).

It is hoped that this activity can provide insight and a deeper understanding of agritourism management. This inbound mobility is a form of implementation of academic collaboration between PSL IPB University and UGAS Iwate University, Japan. (*/Rz) (IAAS/LAN)