National Recreation Association in Japan
compiled by Charles C. Dixon, MS, CTRS
Leadership Training
A variety of recreation
leadership training courses conducted by NRAJ are available to the
public. Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced courses are offered for
the training of recreation leaders.
Two new leadership courses
were introduced in 1991 which train people to encourage others in
making greater use of their leisure time. The first course trains
people over a year period to work as Leisure-Life Promoters. The second
course, lasting for six months, qualifies people as Leisure-Life Advisors.
Graduates of these courses are suitably trained to organize and conduct
a wide range of leisure activities which contribute towards improving,
people's lifestyle and well-being. These courses have attracted widespread
public attention and in July 1991, 274 Leisure-Life Promoters and
203 Leisure-Life Advisors were the first to graduate.
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Public Relations and Publications
NRAJ produces a wide range of
publications, including a book series on numerous sporting
and recreation activities. "Recreation" is the official monthly
publication of the NRAJ.
Shown to the right is a special
publications titled Recreation Activities for Individuals
with Physical Disabilities. |
International Relations
i) World Leisure and Recreation
Association
NRAJ maintains regular
contact with the World Leisure and Recreation Association (WLRA) and
other associated recreation organizations throughout the world. In
1964, the successful World Recreation Congress was held in Kyoto and
Osaka, and brought together 244 guests from 23 countries and 400 Japanese
delegates. On three occasions, Japan has played host to the Asian
Recreation Conference.
ii) National Recreation
and Parks Association (USA)
In 1991 the National Recreation
Association of Japan in conjunction with the National Parks and Recreation
Association (N.R.P.A.) from America conferred and established an international
protocol for professional, technical, and citizen exchange in the
area of parks, recreation and leisure.
National Recreation
Congress
Since 1947 the Association
annually hosts the National Recreation Congress (N.R.C.). This nation-wide
gathering of recreation professionals has seen a steady increase in
delegates, with more than 5000 people attending the 46th Congress
held in Sendai City in 1992. The focus of the Congress features special
lectures, symposiums, discussions, and section meetings. A wide range
of activities are also held including: calisthenics, folk dancing,
cycling, hiking, camping, orienteering, a walk rally, low organized
sports, Indica game, jogging, jazz dancing, rope skipping, skin diving,
& wind surfing.
National Sports and Recreation
Festival
The first National Sports and
Recreation Festival was held in 1988 in an effort to encourage
everyday participation in sport and recreation activities.
The festival seeks to emphasize not only competitive sports
but participation in lifelong sporting and recreation activities
that all can enjoy. As Japanese society is changing with an
aging population and increasing leisure time, participation
in lifelong sport and recreation activities plays an important
role in improving people's health and quality of life. |
photo from NRAJ Rec #452 |
Nationwide Walk Rally
Meets
In 1984 the National Recreation
Association of Japan conducted the first "Walk Rally Day." This popular
event is now held annually on the 3rd Sunday of May and provides enjoyment
to a wide range of people from all generations. In 1992, Nationwide
Walk-Rally Meets were held at 215 locations throughout Japan, covering
670 courses and attracting a total participation of 121,611 people.
Owing to its widespread success throughout Japan and its positive
contribution to society, the event has gained significant support
and sponsorship from the Ministry of Education, and several newspapers
and publishing companies.
Tokyo International
Walk Rally
The Tokyo International
Walk Rally provides a unique opportunity for both Japanese and foreign
residents to meet and take part in a fun activity to promote international
exchange and goodwill among all countries.
Fukushi Recreation
NRAJ is spear-heading the
Fukushi Recreation movement in Japan. The NRAJ office is keenly interested
in the provision of recreation services for older and disabled Japanese
citizens.
NRAJ Office Location
Address:
Suidobashi, Nishiguchi Kaikan
20-7 Misaki-cho 2 chome
Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101 Japan
Tel: (03)3265-1369 |
NRAJ office is just several buildings
off the Suidobashi Station on the JR lines.
Suidobashi is three stations away from Tokyo station.
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