World Scout Jamboree to be held next summer ~30,000 participants to engage in international exchange in Yamaguchi City

With the 23rd World Scout Jamboree—where Boy Scouts from around the world gather once every four years—just one year away, the Boy Scouts of Japan held a press conference in Otemachi, Tokyo, on July 30. Attendees included Chairman Takayasu Okushima, former Prime Minister Yoshiro Mori (President of the Japan Committee for the Jamboree), and Fujio Mitarai (Chairman of the Japan Committee and Honorary Chairman of Keidanren). They announced the event's outline.

Astronaut Soichi Noguchi (center), Takayasu Okushima (left), and Fujio Mitarai (right). Yamaguchi Prefecture Vice Governor Hidenori Fujibe and "Choruru," the prefecture's PR chief and an official supporter of the event, also attended.

 

The event, scheduled for July 28 to August 8 next year, is expected to draw approximately 30,000 participants from 162 countries and regions to Kirarahama in Achi, Yamaguchi City. Young people from around the world will deepen international exchange through camping while experiencing Japanese traditional culture and cutting-edge technology.

Astronaut Soichi Noguchi, a former Boy Scout who remains active as a leader, has been appointed as the Boy Scout Ambassador. Referring to the event's theme, "Wa: A Spirit of Unity," he stated, "Astronauts and Boy Scouts share a profound connection. Koichi Wakata, who recently returned to Earth, also chose 'Wa' as the word for his mission as ISS Commander. I hope this serves as an opportunity for children aiming from Japan to the world, and from the world to space."