2026 Academic Year / Kochi Prefectural Forestry University: Invitation to Summer School

We are pleased to announce a two-day Summer School program designed for students majoring in architecture, offering an immersive experience in Kochi's forests and wooden architecture. Participants will tour Kochi's CLT wooden buildings and visit architectural works in Yusuhara Town designed by renowned architect and school principal Kengo Kuma, with guided explanations provided by staff from Kengo Kuma & Associates. Additionally, attendees will visit Yusuhara's forests, which received FSC forest certification in 2000. We welcome all future leaders in wooden architecture to join us.

<Three Highlights of the Kochi Prefectural Forestry University Summer School>

Architectural Tour of Works by Principal Kengo Kuma

Kengo Kuma, the acclaimed architect and first principal of Kochi Prefectural Forestry University since 2018, has deep ties to Kochi Prefecture. In Yusuhara Town, he has designed several iconic wooden structures, including the Yusuhara Town Hall. This program includes visits to "Gallery in the Clouds," "Yusuhara Za – Kengo Kuma’s Small Museum," Yusuhara Town Hall, "Machi no Eki Yusuhara" (Marche Yusuhara), and the "Library in the Clouds."

Lecture Attendance at Kochi Prefectural Forestry University – A Specialist Training Institution

Kochi Prefectural Forestry University, located in Kochi Prefecture with its abundant forest resources, was established to cultivate talent driving the future of forestry, timber industries, and wooden architecture. Its practical curriculum enables students to master both foundational and advanced skills across these fields. Attending actual classes at the university offers participants a unique opportunity to deepen their knowledge across a broad spectrum.

Experiencing Kochi’s Rich Nature – Japan’s Forest Capital

Kochi Prefecture boasts the highest forest coverage rate in Japan, with forests occupying 84% of its land area, creating a vibrant natural environment. Through a visit to "Yusuhara no Mori" (Yusuhara Forest), participants will experience firsthand the exceptional forest ecosystems that Kochi takes pride in. Don’t miss this valuable opportunity to gain insights for the future of wooden architecture.

<Event Overview: Kochi Prefectural Forestry University Summer School> ■ Organizer: Kochi Prefectural Forestry University ■ Co-sponsors: Japan Federation of Architects Associations (Public Interest Incorporated Association), Kochi Prefecture Timber Association (General Incorporated Association) ■ Date: August 24 (Mon) – 25 (Tue), 2026 ■ Venue: Kochi Prefectural Forestry University / Yusuhara Town area ■ Accommodation: Yuuyukan (Community Activity Center), Yusuhara Town

Participation Fee: Free (No cost for local transportation or site visits)