The inaugural Kyoto Conference, organized by the Kyoto Institute of Philosophy with participation from major corporations and universities in Japan and abroad, opened at the Kyoto International Conference Center. Around 300 philosophers, scholars, and business executives from some 20 countries joined the two-day event.

While rapid advances in science and technology, including AI, have already sparked diverse discussions on social challenges, this conference is turning attention to values—a theme less often addressed directly. In the morning session, Osaka University professor of robotics Hiroshi Ishiguro led a discussion under the theme ‘AI and the Reconsideration of Humanity’.

The conference will continue in Kyoto over two days.

Meanwhile in Toyooka, Hyogo Prefecture, visitors to Kinosaki Marine World are taking part in an event that lets them step into the role of dolphin trainers. Families and other participants observed the animals closely and gave signals by blowing whistles or swaying their bodies on the very stage used for regular shows. One participant said, “It made me happy to see the dolphins respond just as I signaled.” Another added, “They are so cute, and it was fun to meet their eyes.”

The dolphin trainer experience is offered by reservation through April 5th next year.

In Tokushima, residents marked the equinoctial holiday with the traditional ritual of suna-kyu, in which footprints left in sand are treated with moxibustion to pray for health and well-being. The practice, said to date back about 250 years when farmers learned it from a traveling monk, is performed at both spring and autumn equinoxes.

Visitors pressed their footprints into sand in a wooden box before receiving the ritual treatment. Some brought socks from family members unable to attend, believing that even imprints left in socks carry benefits. One participant commented, “It gives me a refreshing feeling. I’m glad I came with my whole family.”

Source: ABCTVnews