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FUJI QUEST

2025-08-04 10:00

JPT

2025-08-11 17:00

Where Nature, Culture and Technology Collide

Shizuoka, Japan

Fuji Quest is a 7-day interdisciplinary learning program designed for 16 secondary school students to explore the scientific, cultural, and technological significance of Mount Fuji. This program blends hands-on field exploration, volcanology, ecology, sustainability, and immersive storytelling to inspire students through project-based learning. Students will work in teams to investigate real-world challenges and develop their own AI-powered agent integrated into a custom-built interactive website to be hosted and shareable for 5 years.

LEARNING THROUGH EXPERIENCE

Fuji Quest is not a classroom — it’s an expedition. Students ascend Mount Fuji, uncovering its secrets through direct experience and deep observation. They don’t just learn facts — they chase questions, collaborate on real-world challenges, and craft immersive stories that turn knowledge into emotion. Every step becomes a scene, every insight a voice — and the mountain itself becomes part of the narrative they bring to life.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Volcanic Science & Geology:

Study Mount Fuji’s volcanic activity, rock formations, and impact on the region.

Ecology & Sustainability:

Investigate biodiversity, conservation efforts, and climate impact on Fuji’s ecosystem.

Cultural & Historical Influence:

Understand how Mount Fuji has inspired art, religion, literature, and local traditions.

AI & Conversational Technology:

Learn to design, build, and refine AI chatbots or voicebots for storytelling and education.

Web Development & Digital Documentation:

Create a collective team webpage to publish their journey and project with credits to each participant.

Collaborative Problem-Solving:

Develop critical thinking and teamwork skills through hands-on fieldwork and digital prototyping.

PROGRAM ITINERARY -

Day 1: Understanding Fuji & Team Formation & Camping

- Program briefing and team icebreaker activities. 
- Introduction to Mount Fuji’s geology, history, and cultural significance.
- Camp at a designated Fuji site while discussing field observations.

Day 2: Field Exploration & Investigation

- Site visits to key geological and cultural locations.
- Investigate volcanic activity, historical narratives, and Fuji’s environmental impact.
- Take good rest with beds and showers.

Day 3: Climbing Mount Fuji & Cabin Stay

- Begin ascent of Mount Fuji.
- Overnight in mountain cabin with hot water and toilet infrastructure.

Day 4: Completing Fuji Hike & Recovery

- Wake-up for a chance to see the sun-rise from the top of Mt. Fuji.
- Descend back to civilization + onsen.
- Recover from Hike with nice beds.

Day 5: AI & Innovation Workshop

- Introduction to AI-powered chat-bots and voice-bots.
- Hands-on workshop on Conversational AI, Prompt Engineering, and Digital Storytelling.
- Team ideation and concept development.

Day 6: Cultural Immersion & Project Development

- Visits to temples, shrines, and local communities.
- Teams build and test their AI chat-bots or voice-bots, integrating them into a website.

Day 7: Final Showcase & Reflection

- Teams finalize and refine their projects.
- Presentations and live demonstrations of AI-powered experiences.
- Certificate of completion awarded.

OUTCOME

By the end of Fuji Quest, students will have:

Experienced outdoor camping and mountain cabin experiences that foster independence, adaptability and flexibility.

Conducted hands-on scientific and cultural research at Mount Fuji, gaining a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and history and how it has been shaped by nature.

Built an AI chatbot or voicebot embedded on a website they designed.

Developed a sharable project web portfolio showcasing their interdisciplinary learning.

Gained valuable experience in conversational AI, web development, and sustainability.

Received a certificate of completion, enhancing their credentials for future academic and career opportunities.

TEAM

Chief Experience Architect - Joe Jun Liao (‘Jun’)

A multi-award-winning designer and cross-border entrepreneur, recognized for his work in innovation and experience design. He has received prestigious accolades with the Young Design Talent Awards, Design for Asia Awards, and the Red Dot Awards, and international coverage in publications such as Monocle and Forbes.

As the Co-founder and CEO of EXP., Jun pioneers advancements at the intersection of travel, technology, and design. Educated at Harvard and UCLA, he approaches design as a tool for transformation, aiming to break down barriers and redefine how people connect and engage with the world.

Through impact-driven entrepreneurship, Jun leverages design and technology to craft immersive experiences that foster a more open, interconnected, and borderless future.

Trekking experiences: Patagonia (Paine Circuit), Everest (Basecamp), Kilimanjaro (Summit), Mt. Fuji (Summit), Mt. Whitney (California, Same day summit attempt 1, turned back by weather) etc.

Program Director - Harvey Chung

Harvey is the Product Director at EXP. and Program Lead for Fuji Quest. A Yale University graduate and former Assistant Professor at HKU, he brings deep expertise in education, design, and leadership. Harvey has led numerous learning programs, advancing innovation at the intersection of design and technology.

As a multidisciplinary designer, he specializes in Experience Design, Conversational AI, Mixed Reality, and Spatial Design. With over 15 years of international experience across the US, UK, Japan, and Hong Kong, Harvey brings a global perspective that blends creativity with emerging technologies. Drawing from his background as both an entrepreneur and educator, he bridges academic insight with real-world application—seamlessly integrating emerging technologies into design to shape the future of human-centered experiences.

Trekking experiences: Patagonia W Trail, Torres Del Paine, Chile; Machupicchu Inca Trail, Peru; Lascar Volcano (5592m), San Pedro, Chile; Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand.

PARTNER

2041 GIS Specialist2041 Hong Kong is a youth-led organization dedicated to inspiring, advocating for, and catalyzing change for sustainability and climate action. The organization aims to build a more resilient and sustainable Hong Kong in all aspects of living by building capacity, fostering relationships, and driving positive actions. 2041 Hong Kong engages in consulting and advisory roles, assisting corporations and institutions with CSR and sustainability issues. They also partner with schools and institutions to organize events and solutions-based projects, empowering environmental education. Additionally, they focus on communications and branding, creating products that promote an empathetic affinity with the environment and community. The organization is recruiting more youths to join their mission.

PRICING

Price・価格

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FAQ

Will there be regular updates for parents?

Yes. We will provide key updates and photos during the program via email or a designated communication platform.

How are medical needs and emergencies handled?

Staff are trained in basic first aid and emergency protocols. Clinics and hospitals are accessible in nearby areas. Parents will be contacted immediately in case of an emergency.

Is travel insurance included?

Travel insurance is not included. We strongly recommend that each participant has appropriate insurance coverage for international travel, health, and outdoor activities.

Where is the meeting point for departure?

The meeting location will be announced and communicated through email in advance of the program.

Is there a selection process?

Yes. Due to limited spots, applicants may be asked to submit a short statement of interest or participate in a short interview.

What is the learning outcome?

Students will complete the program with a custom-built website featuring an immersive storytelling project powered by AI. They will also receive a certificate of completion and gain valuable experience in science, design, and communication.

Do students need to bring their own gear?

A packing list will be provided. Students need to bring personal items, appropriate clothing, and basic hiking gear. Specialized research materials and tech tools will be provided.

Will students have adult supervision?

Yes. A trained team of facilitators and staff will accompany students at all times, ensuring safety, support, and guidance.

What is included in the program fee?

The fee is all-inclusive: flights, transportation, accommodations, meals, research equipment, entry fees, and expert-led workshops. See the full list under “What’s Included.”

Is it safe to climb Mount Fuji?

Yes. The climb is done on established trails with trained guides. Students stay overnight in a mountain cabin with facilities, and the group is supported by experienced staff at all times.

Is the program conducted in English?

Yes, all activities, workshops, and team communication are conducted in English.

Do students need to be physically fit to join?

Students should be in good health and able to hike for several hours. The Mount Fuji climb is guided, and participants will be well-supported throughout.

Who can join Fuji Quest?

The program is open to secondary school students aged 14–18. No prior experience is needed—just curiosity, openness, and a spirit of adventure.

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