In 2027, the travelogue "Five Pairs of Shoes," representing Amakusa literature, will celebrate its 120th anniversary since its publication.
This symposium will examine and discuss the role of this precious literature left in the region, while tracing the achievements of editor Utarō Noda, who brought "Five Pairs of Shoes" back into the world. It will explore how to utilize this literature for education, local culture, and tourism.
We will also hold an exhibition titled "Amakusa Literary Walk by Utarō Noda," showcasing valuable photographs and related materials taken by Utarō Noda.
We sincerely look forward to your participation.

【Event Overview】
Date: Sunday, November 29, 2026, from 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM (Doors open at 1:00 PM)
Venue: Shiki Community Center (Reihokumachi Town Hall)
Address: 444-1 Shiki, Reihokumachi, Amakusa District, Kumamoto Prefecture
Participation Fee: Free (Capacity: 200 people)
Organizer: Reihokumachi and Reihokumachi Board of Education
Co-organizer: Amakusa Reihoku Tourism Association
Support: Noda Utarō Literary Museum, Kyushu Asahi Broadcasting Co., Ltd., KBC Mooov
Planning: Dot Works

【Program Content】
Part 1: "Understanding Utarō Noda and His Achievements" - Exploring the connection with "Five Pairs of Shoes" and the meaning of "Literary Walk."
Part 2: "Considering the Region Through Utarō Noda's Perspective" - Questioning how to utilize the literary treasures left in the region for society, education, and tourism.
Speakers
Takami Yamabe (Member of the Utarō Noda Commemorative Association)
Masashi Nishikido (Director of Reihokumachi Education Board)
Katsuhiro Noda (Chairman of Reihokumachi Neighborhood Association)
Tadao Inoue (Secretary-General of the Amakusa Reihoku Tourism Association)
Hideki Ohnita (Moderator / Regional Revitalization Entrepreneur in Reihokumachi)
Concurrent Exhibition: "Amakusa Literary Walk by Utarō Noda" - An exhibition of valuable photographs and related materials taken by Utarō Noda.

【Application and Inquiries】
Contact Phone Number: 0969-31-1136
The pre-registration form for participation can be found in the "Notice" section of the Amakusa Reihoku Tourism Association website.
*Although same-day participation is possible, space is limited, so pre-registration is recommended.
*This symposium is being conducted with the support of the "Kumamoto Future Creation Startup Subsidy for the 8th year of the Reiwa era."