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【国際交流PRアソシエイトからの発信★】Exploring Iwate University's History: Historical Museum for Agricultural Education Tour and Piano Evening

国際月間イベントとして開催された「農業教育資料館ツアーとピアノの夕べ」の様子を記事で紹介しています。ぜひご覧ください。

We are introducing in this article the event "Historical Museum for Agricultural Education Tour and Evening of Piano", which was held as part of an International Month event. Please take a look.

（言語：英語・タイ語）

(Language: English and Thai)

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Exploring Iwate University's History: Museum Tour and Piano Evening

Have you ever wondered about the history of Iwate University? Did you know there are spots on campus where you can explore and learn about the university's fascinating history? On November 15th, the International Office hosted an event that provided an insightful experience: a tour of the Iwate University Historical Museum for Agricultural Education, followed by a piano recital. This event offered both students and faculty an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the university's heritage while enjoying a relaxing evening of music.

The tour led participants to the Former Morioka Imperial College of Agriculture and Forestry building, now home to the Iwate University Historical Museum. Located near the Faculty of Agriculture and the campus cafeteria, the museum showcases the university's origins, beginning with the founding of the Morioka Imperial College of Agriculture and Forestry in 1902, which later became part of Iwate University in 1949. The building itself, dating back to 1912, is an important cultural asset and a prime example of early 20th-century European-style architecture. Throughout the tour, visitors learned about the university's evolution through exhibits that included old admission forms, historical photographs, and even an early entrance exam. Interestingly, the college did not initially require entrance exams for admission. Instead, it accepted students based on the information provided in their application forms. This policy reflected the institution's commitment to fostering agricultural education for a wide range of people, particularly farmers. It was only several years later that entrance exams were introduced, beginning with relatively simple questions.

A highlight of the museum is a special room dedicated to Kenji Miyazawa, the famous writer and poet who graduated from the school. Among the displays are stones collected by Kenji Miyazawa and examples of his handwritten notes. Visitors also learn about his deep connection to the community, including his final request to distribute 1,000 books of Buddhist sutras to local residents.

Outside, a sculpture of Kenji Miyazawa, created by Professor Osamu Waragai, stands as a tribute to his lasting influence. Made from Anzangan, a volcanic rock featured in his works, the sculpture symbolizes Kenji Miyazawa's spirit, guiding future generations.

After the tour, attendees were treated to a piano recital at Polan House, a glass house surrounded by nature. Kinoshita-san, a talented staff member from the International Office, played a mix of classical and contemporary pieces, including Chopin's Nocturne No. 2 and Joe Hisaishi's Summer. The performance provided a peaceful and enjoyable conclusion to the evening.

The Historical Museum Tour and Piano Evening was a wonderful way to connect with the history of Iwate University while enjoying an evening of culture and music. To learn more about the university's history, visit the official website of the Historical Museum for Agricultural Education, Iwate University.: http://news7a1.atm.iwate-u.ac.jp/edu/en/index.html