Broadcasting every Saturday from 8 AM to 9 AM on FM Kurashiki, "Gather! Elementary School Students".
The personality, Asuka Abe, visits elementary schools in Kurashiki City to interview children who talk about the charm of their schools and school districts, as well as their big dreams. Through the children's genuine voices, we can once again feel the charm of the community.
In the broadcast on September 19, 2026 (Saturday), we introduced the situation at "Yata Elementary School" located in Mabi-cho, Kurashiki City.
We will deliver the lively voices of the children.
This article is a contributed piece by FM Kurashiki Co., Ltd. It has been edited and published by the Haretoco General Incorporated Association editorial team.
The information provided is from the article published in October 2026. Please note that it may differ from current information.
FM Kurashiki "Gather! Elementary School Students"
In "Gather! Elementary School Students," we directly interview sixth graders at the visited elementary schools to deeply explore the charm of the schools everyone attends. Additionally, the "School District Pride," where children talk about the good and favorite aspects of their community from their perspective, is also a highlight.
They share their exciting future dreams and express gratitude to their families who are always with them... We will also present heartwarming interviews that will surely touch the hearts of adults.
This time, we visited Yata Elementary School located in Mabi-cho, Kurashiki City.
The charm of Yata Elementary School was quickly shared by the children.
About Yata Elementary School
The first to introduce the school is Harai Itsuki. He provided a thorough introduction to the charm of Yata Elementary School.
Located in the center of Mabi-cho, Yata Elementary School is near many famous places related to Kibi no Makibi, who was active as a member of the Japanese envoy to Tang Dynasty China.
The educational goals are stated as "Energetic children, compassionate children, children who learn proactively". True to these words, the children have overcome the heavy rain disaster in July 2018 by helping each other and have been spending time together with smiles.
In spring, there is a sports festival, and in autumn, there are the Yata-kko presentation and autumn excursions, as well as social studies field trips, which are proudly packed school events. When they reach sixth grade, they also participate in a historical exploration stamp rally in cooperation with local people during their comprehensive learning time.
Harai concluded by expressing his happiness about the new indoor pool completed in 2022, saying, "I'm glad we can swim in the new pool with a roof."
The children of Yata Elementary School enjoy various events while deepening their bonds. It is clear that they are thriving in Mabi-cho, a place where they can feel the romance of history.
Children of Yata Elementary School Talk About "School & School District Pride"
Next, we will introduce the "pride of the school and school district" that the children are proud of.
Three children presented the charms of Yata Elementary School and its school district.
1. The only one in Kurashiki City! A clean indoor pool anytime
Inoue Riku introduced the pride of the only indoor pool in Kurashiki City.
Being indoors allows for pool lessons without being affected by the weather, such as rain. There are fewer bugs, and the water is always kept clean, so the children can enjoy swimming comfortably.
Inoue said, "Swimming lessons are fun because we have an indoor pool." I hope they continue to enjoy the remaining pool lessons in the clean indoor pool.
2. The roots of Go and Katakana! The achievements of the historical figure Kibi no Makibi
Next, Tajika Kota spoke about the pride of the region, Kibi no Makibi. He carefully explained about Kibi no Makibi.
Kibi no Makibi was a historical figure who was active as a member of the Japanese envoy to Tang Dynasty China about 1300 years ago, and Yata is said to be his birthplace. He studied astronomy and tactics in China, which was considered the most advanced in science and technology at that time.
After returning to Japan, he is said to have made numerous achievements, such as inventing the prototype of Katakana and spreading Go in Japan. Tajika said, "I feel proud when I write Katakana in class or see place names related to Kibi no Makibi."
During the presentation, Kibi no Makibi was referred to as a "great genius." For the children, Kibi no Makibi is indeed a significant source of pride.
3. A warm presence supporting school life! Community pride "Town Development"
The last presentation was by Tsubota Yudai. Tsubota talked about the community organization "Town Development" that supports school life.
The local people involved in "Town Development" kindly watch over the children during their commutes, even on rainy days. Additionally, they organize various events such as the traditional mochi pounding, walk rallies, local festivals, and after-school children's classes.
In regular classes, they also teach children how to use saws and sewing machines, showing their dedication to supporting the children.
Tsubota expressed his gratitude, saying, "The reason we enjoy our school life is thanks to everyone in Town Development. They are the pride of our community."
Supported by the kind adults in the community, the children of Yata Elementary School are enjoying their daily lives. In this charming community, they will continue to grow and thrive.
Voices of Children Looking to the Future
After learning about the school's charm, we also asked about everyone's future dreams.
Fourteen children participated in the interview this time.
They expressed dreams of becoming professional athletes, prime ministers, YouTubers, and doctors. Additionally, some shared their kind wishes to "take over my father's company!" Imagining everyone's future dreams is exciting.
The sight of children challenging themselves with their "favorite things" as motivation gave great courage and inspiration to the adults as well.
Thank you to everyone at Yata Elementary School.
From the Editor
Through the voices of children, "Gather! Elementary School Students" will continue to deliver the charm of schools and communities to everyone.
Every time we visit an elementary school, we feel the warm support of the teachers and local community as the children grow day by day.
FM Kurashiki will continue to watch over the local children so that they can live healthily and happily.
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Data for FM Kurashiki "Gather Around! Elementary School Students"
| Name | FM Kurashiki "Gather Around! Elementary School Students" |
|---|---|
| Address | 520-28 Shirakuratown, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | 086-430-0828 |
"Gather Around! Elementary School Students" can also be listened to from the FM Kurashiki website.