KU organizes field trip for international students
At Kumamoto University, field trips are organized every year, with the objective of deepening the understanding of Japanese history and culture, and also to provide an opportunity for interaction among international students studying at KU. This year, a 2-day field trip was arranged during February 15-16, 2011 to Fukuoka and Yamaguchi region. A total of 116 international students from 16 countries, and 4 tutors participated in the trip. Also, there were 7 faculty and staff, accompanying the students.
On the first day, the participants of the trip visited Kyushu National Museum, Dazaifu Tenmangu, one of most famous shrine in Japan and Tsunoshima Bridge. At Kyushu National Museum, the international students learnt about the history of cultural exchanges between Japan and other Asian countries while appreciating the art, handicrafts etc of different countries. The participants were also introduced to the Japanese handicrafts which were influenced by western culture. At the Dazaifu Tenmangu, they were taught the traditional way of praying and were told about the God of learning –“Sugawara no Michizane”.
The international students stayed overnight at Hotel Nishinagato Resort in Yamaguchi Prefecture and took a relaxing bath in the hot spring which has fabulous view of the beach. They also tasted traditional Japanese dishes.
On the second day, visits were arranged to Akama Shrine, Kanmon Tunnel, Kyushu Railway History Museum, Mojiko Retro etc. At the Museum, the participants learnt about the history of railways in every region of Kyushu and also board some of the original railway carriages of the past.
On both days the weather was excellent, and the participants had a memorable time.
