VOL.8 Discovering Passions in ONOMICHI｜Onomichi Free University

Starting something exciting and new, whether it’s a hobby or anything else, as an adult can significantly impact the fulfillment of one’s life thereafter. That’s why I recommend lectures at Onomichi Free University to creative workers in Tokyo. You can encounter diverse ways of living through engaging instructors and meeting new friends.

The Free University, located in the main campus within COMMUNE in Tokyo’s Omotesando, offers a learning environment centered around lifestyle and workstyle. What sets it apart is its unique approach of having ‘teachers who are not teachers’, meaning a diverse group of instructors who are not bound by the traditional frameworks of education and institutions.

Onomichi Free University was established in 2013 by ‘Discoverlink Setouchi’, a company envisioning the future of Onomichi. Initially, more than half of the students were from urban areas and neighboring prefectures, but now there is an increasing participation from locals who seek to cultivate their own hobbies and interests. In the classroom, which brings together residents of Onomichi and neighboring prefectures, adults discover the importance of lifelong learning and explore various options for living.

The tacit knowledge of experts

The learning ingrained in one’s body, regardless of the genre, is rooted in meeting people and hearing their stories. It goes beyond what can be conveyed through videos, books, or web articles; it’s about feeling the person’s aura and manner of speaking, experiencing their values, experiences, and emotions firsthand. It’s through this process that one can absorb tacit knowledge. The atmosphere sensed through one’s body and mind is arguably the most crucial information gained through learning.

In recent times, with the proliferation of online meetings via platforms like Zoom, the importance of in-person interactions in understanding someone’s personality and values has become more evident.

Tetsunari Takano, who oversees the planning of Onomichi Free University, shares, ‘The learning ingrained in oneself often comes from admiration or influence from people one likes.’ In contrast to Free Universities in Tokyo, Onomichi’s Free University offers fewer practical knowledge-based lectures. Instead, they focus on how to convey the backgrounds, values, and experiences of the instructors, providing a learning experience that resonates with both the body and the mind.

For instance, graphic designer Togi Iino teaches a course titled ‘Plating Design Studies,’ which combines her everyday job of cooking for her children with her profession of graphic design. While similar courses in Tokyo focus more on plating techniques, in Onomichi, they emphasize Iino’s background. By inviting local farmers as guest speakers and showcasing her community involvement, the lectures allow students to connect with Iino’s personality.

This approach to lectures reflects the importance Onomichi residents place on connections and communication. Through our interviews with the people of Onomichi, it’s clear they take pride in their backgrounds and are able to articulate their experiences with confidence. It’s this sense of self-awareness that allows individuals to stand out and foster equal relationships with everyone they encounter.

Finding guiding figures

Furthermore, whether it’s in work, study, or hobbies, it’s often easier to learn from someone who loves the subject rather than just someone who has knowledge about it. The reason is that you can become interested in the person as well as the subject itself. In that regard, the instructors at the Free University excel in pursuing their passions and developing their personalities.

If you find yourself intrigued by the instructors’ passion and personality, it’s likely that your approach to learning will change as well.

“I think learning from someone you respect and getting along with them is the best way to learn. At the Free University, although there’s a division between teachers and students, there’s an environment where mutual respect and camaraderie can be fostered. In my case, I didn’t encounter such people until later in life. When I thought about why that was, I realized it was probably because I had fewer encounters. That’s why I want the Free University to be a place where people can meet and find respected mentors.” (Mr. Takano)

Mr. Takano’s sentiments reflect the importance that people in Onomichi place on connections and encounters. With a diverse mix of participants from different professions and age groups in the classes, you’ll encounter a variety of perspectives. It’s an opportunity to share enjoyable moments with members who are eager to grow.

To determine your own path

Participating in lectures at Onomichi Free University can impart a common lesson, regardless of the subject: the importance of “deciding one’s own life.” Courses like “Adventure Shrine Studies,” “Presentation Design Studies,” and “Deep Weed Pulling Studies” offer entertaining and unconventional learning experiences born from instructors’ pursuit of their passions. Observing how they choose what they love serves as a guiding principle when making decisions upon returning to Tokyo. Simply choosing what brings joy and purpose to one’s life can significantly enhance its quality.

“I’ve always felt that a continuous stream of interests and curiosity shapes who we are,” says Mr. Takano, echoing sentiments shared by Onomichi Free University’s president, Mr. Nakamura, and the faculty. Embracing curiosity and finding joy in interesting pursuits, much like we did as children absorbed in play, is vital for adults. This spirit of finding delight in anything is crucial for enriching daily life. Learning in Onomichi, a place where many embrace change and constantly challenge themselves, adds a convincing touch to this idea.

Contributions: Onomichi Free University
Photos: Moron Non
Interview & Text: Marina Haga (Harumari TOKYO)