Guam Hosts Budding Japanese Journalists

Japan’s Mainichi Kids Reporters Visit Guam on Education Tour & Interview Governor.

Guam recently welcomed a delegation of young journalists from Japan as part of the Mainichi Kids Reporter Program, a cultural and educational initiative co-hosted by the Guam Visitors Bureau and the Mainichi Shogakusei Newspaper. The program offered a unique opportunity for Japanese elementary school students to experience Guam firsthand and share its stories with their peers back home.

Established in 1936, the Mainichi Shogakusei Newspaper is a daily publication tailored for elementary school students in Japan. It presents domestic and international news in an accessible manner, with all kanji characters accompanied by furigana (phonetic readings), making it readable for children as young as first graders. The newspaper aims to cultivate young readers’ interest in current affairs and global events from an early age.

The delegation comprised students selected from over 540 applicants across Japan, reflecting strong enthusiasm for Guam as an educational destination. During their time on the island, the students explored Guam’s natural beauty, rich CHamoru culture, and historical landmarks, deepening their understanding of its identity and charm. One of the most memorable moments of their stay was a visit to the Governor’s Office, where the children took part in an office tour, learning about Guam’s government functions and leadership. The highlight of their visit was the students’ formal interview with a government official, asking thoughtful questions they had prepared in advance.

“We were honored to host these bright young reporters and proud to show them the heart of Guam.”

Regina Nedlic, Senior Marketing Manager – Japan of the Guam Visitors Bureau, added, “Their curiosity and enthusiasm reminded us how powerful cultural exchange can be—especially with the next generation.”

GVB President & CEO Régine Biscoe Lee said, “It is a rare opportunity for a child to be able to meet and interview a foreign leader and then experience her country. Guam is the perfect place for these young journalists to gain that overall understanding of a Pacific island, which is easily accessible to them. We hope to welcome more young journalists from Japan and the region as a part of our Educational and Group Support programs.”  

The students’ articles—based on their firsthand experiences—will be published in the Mainichi Shogakusei Newspaper. The newspaper is expected to serve as a promotional tool (sales kit) in the Japanese education and travel market, showcasing Guam as an ideal destination for school trips and youth educational programs.

SEEN IN MAIN IMAGE:  Mainichi Kids Reporter Program participants with the Governor of Guam.  L-R:  Itoka Matsumoto, Kids Reporter | Lourdes Leon Guerrero, Governor of Guam | Riu Iitsuka, Kids Reporter | Mikito Arai, Kids Reporter.

Media Contact:  Lisa Bordallo, Public Information Officer, GUAM VISITORS BUREAU, SETBISION BISITAN GUÅHAN, Tumon, Guam, (671) 979-1523, lisa.bordallo@visitguam.org