"Describe the 10-day program experience in
one phrase?"
"Once In A Lifetime Opportunity"
School of Technology Management and Logistics 4年
In a bustling cityscape where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern innovation, I embarked on a transformative journey through the Inter-University Exchange Project hosted by the Kansai University of International Studies in Japan. Coming from a Technology Management background, I would say this 10-day immersion not only broadened my understanding of "Omotenashi" (refers to Japanese hospitality) but also enriched my appreciation for Japanese culture and its profound influences on hospitality practices.
Below are the key highlights of every single day:
Day 2: The day began with lectures on "Branding Strategy for Hyogo Product" and "Introduction to Japanese Tourism Policy." These sessions illuminated the importance of branding in promoting local products and the role of government policies in shaping tourism development.
Day 1: The orientation session marked the beginning of the program, setting the stage for the cultural and educational exploration ahead. Participants were introduced to the objectives, itinerary, and guidelines of the program.
The day culminated in a mesmerizing performance at Awaji World Ballet, where the graceful movements of the dancers mirror the tranquillity and beauty of the island itself. The day of cultural immersion and sensory delights provided a profound appreciation for the harmony between nature, art, and mindful living on Awaji Island.
Day 4: A visit to Arima Onsen Hot Spring provided a firsthand experience of Japan's traditional hospitality and relaxation culture. We were also introduced to the traditional arts and crafts of the region, including Arima Kago (bamboo basket) and Ningyo Fude (Doll Brushes). Besides, indulging in soba noodles added a delightful culinary dimension to our journey.
Day 3: The highlight was the field study to Awaji Island, where the local company initiatives aimed at revitalizing the region. The group's efforts focused on human resource development and job creation, leveraging tourism from Japan and abroad. Awaji Island was promoted as the "Island of Gastronomy," "Island of Culture and Art," and "Island of Health," reflecting its diverse offerings and potential for sustainable development. We attended a serene meditation class, setting a peaceful tone for the experiences that followed. The tranquillity of the session lingered as we indulged in the delightful flavors of fresh, organic cuisine at a local restaurant, savoring each dish's connection to the land.
Day 6: The day featured lectures and panel discussions, further expanding our knowledge of hospitality management and its significance in the Japanese context. The key takeaway was that I could differentiate between hospitality and service. Hospitality is how customers feel about doing business with you; conversely, service refers to how well you do what you advertise.
Day 5: The specific focus was food and beverage, with lectures and a practicum on Japan's rich culinary heritage. Learning about food culture, manners, symbolism, processing methods, cooking techniques, and the art of the "Sake" (a Japanese alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice) and tea ceremony, deepened my appreciation for Japanese traditions.
Day 8: Group work and presentation preparation allowed us to reflect on our experiences and share insights with peers from other countries, fostering collaboration and mutual learning. It was also our last sprint for the final presentation on the next day.
Day 7: The field trip to explore Sakoshi revealed the rich history and heritage of the region. The local community warmly welcomed us, making me feel like I was coming home. During the trip, we learned about Banshu Ako's reputation for producing "the best salt" in Japan. I was even selected to make the salt; it was so cool. We also had our lunch there, where the food was prepared using the local ingredients from the land and sea. Apart from that, we cleaned the beach before our departure to Kobe.
Osaka, known for its vibrant culture and delicious street food, was a perfect choice for our last adventure in Japan. As we arrived in Osaka, we were immediately captivated by the bustling streets and lively atmosphere. Our first stop was Osaka Castle, a magnificent structure that symbolised the city's rich history. Walking through the castle grounds, we marvelled at the intricate architecture and learned about its significance in Japanese history. Next, we made our way to Dotonbori, the bustling heart of Osaka's entertainment district. The vibrant neon lights, bustling crowds, and the aroma of delicious street food filled the air. As the day drew to a close, I reflected on the incredible journey through Japan. From the serene beauty of Awaji Island to the bustling streets of Osaka, I experienced Japan's rich culture and hospitality in all its glory.
Day 9: The final day included a lecture on marketing strategies applied by Universal Studio Japan, followed by our final presentations. With effort, my group managed to get the first runner-up. To be frank, we faced hardships and challenges along the process, but I am proud to say we overcame them through unity. As time passed, the day ended with bittersweet farewells as we bid goodbye to each other, carrying memories with us.
Day 10: On the final day in Japan, we decided to make the most of our time and embarked on a day trip to Osaka before the flight back to our home country.
As I boarded my flight back home, I knew that Japan had left a lasting impression on me, and I vowed to return someday to explore more of this fascinating country. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from experts, explore new perspectives, and forge connections with fellow participants. I had so much fun in these ten days. This journey has broadened my cultural horizons, inspiring me to continue exploring and learning from diverse cultures worldwide. I will definitely come back, till we meet again.
