Tragedy Strikes 'Peace Study': Doshisha Student Dies in Henoko Boat Capsize, Igniting Debate on Education and Safety

Two individuals, a female student from Doshisha Kokusai High School (Kyoto Prefecture) and a male captain, have been confirmed dead after a boat capsized off Henoko, Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture. This accident occurred while students from the school were aboard protest boats opposing the construction of a new base in Henoko, as part of their “peace study” program. Strong criticism regarding the school's safety management system and educational policies has erupted on social media.

According to an Okinawa Times report, a total of 21 people were aboard the capsized vessel, 18 of whom were students from Doshisha Kokusai High School. Although all were wearing life vests, the tragedy could not be prevented. Sources indicate that the deceased are a 17-year-old female high school student and a male captain in his 70s.

The waters off Henoko, where the accident took place, are known as a “difficult area where currents change easily.” A high wave warning had also been issued at the time of the accident. It has been pointed out that the sea was so rough that even a Japan Coast Guard research vessel had capsized there previously. Numerous questions have been raised regarding the decision to depart under adverse weather conditions and the safety management responsibilities of both the school and the boat operator.

In particular, the content of this “peace study” has sparked a major debate on social media. As students were aboard protest boats named “Heiwa Maru” (Peace Boat) and “Fukutsu” (Indomitable), which are operated by activists opposing the new base construction, criticisms have poured in, such as “Why allow students on a protest boat during a school trip?” and “Is this peace study or ideological education?” There has also been speculation, including “Was this a business to provide funds to activist groups?” and “A win-win business model where the school and activists collaborated,” revealing strong distrust in the school's educational policies.

Some posts indicate similar concerns from alumni, casting doubt on the school's past operational practices. There are also allegations that the boat operator is linked to groups described as “anti-Japan Korean strongholds,” with specific names mentioned, leading to severe criticism that inadequate safety management contributed to the female student's death.

Regarding this accident, voices have been raised stating, “The responsibility for endangering students in a perilous sea area is extremely grave,” and “Was the school negligent by entrusting everything to a travel agency without proper verification?” Opinions also suggest that the bereaved family should pursue significant compensation from the school. Many people are praying for the souls of the deceased female student and captain, and strongly demand a thorough investigation into the cause of this accident and measures to prevent its recurrence.

The context

This article details a tragic maritime accident during a school trip to Okinawa. Henoko is a coastal area in Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture, which is the site of a highly controversial plan to relocate the U.S. Marine Corps' Futenma Air Station. This relocation involves extensive landfill work to build a new base, which has faced decades of strong opposition from many Okinawans and peace activists. Critics cite environmental concerns, the disproportionate burden of U.S. military bases on the island, and historical grievances related to the post-WWII U.S. occupation.

Many Japanese schools organize “peace study” trips to Okinawa, often to educate students about the Battle of Okinawa during World War II and the subsequent U.S. presence. These programs typically include visits to peace memorials and historical sites. However, integrating direct participation in political protests, such as boarding anti-base activist boats, is highly contentious. This accident has ignited a national debate in Japan about the scope and appropriateness of such “peace study” programs, raising questions about educational ethics, school safety protocols, and the potential for ideological influence during school-sponsored activities.