On Sep. 10 and 11, the class split into groups to visit several local companies. You could feel the spirit of “Think Globally, Act Locally” in Suita. Located in one of the biggest commercial areas in Japan, Suita city hosts a number of corporations whose products are sold internationally.

One group visited Taiko Pharmaceuticals, known nationally for their stomach medicine “Seirogan”, and had the opportunity to have lunch with the president of the company. We were surprised to learn that it is only recently that they have found out the scientific explanation to the effectiveness of the herbal medication, although Seirogan has been used in Japan for more than a century. The company considers their mission is to bring health to people all over the world and is expanding sales internationally.

Each group was able to learn more about company activities for Corporate Social Responsibility. In Yodogawa Hu-tech, a manufacturer of florescent products, the health of employees are considered most seriously. They are strongly encouraged to quit smoking - and when they succeed, they receive bonus money from the company! They told us that they are often thanked by employees’ families for making their family members healthier.

Since the first mass- developed residential district is located in Suita, many local companies understand the connectivity to the local residents. For example, a steel production company we visited offers local residents the free use of their tennis courts as well as volley ball field, and a house-cleaning company organizes park beautification activities.