Source: School of Foreign Languages
Written by: Zheng Lei
Edited by: Wang Dongmei
The 2nd Short-term Summer Study Tour to Japan ended in July with success. The arranged activities for this 13-day program included courses at renowned Japanese universities, visiting Japanese enterprises, introduction and experience of Japanese traditional culture and tours to historic spots. 33 students from different schools and departments and 2 teachers from School of Foreign Languages comprised the study tour group.
The study tour group attending a lecture by Prof. Campbell at Doshisha University
The study tour began in Kyoto, where the group paid a visit to a number of historic spots such as Kiyomizu Temple, Kinkakuji, Nijo Castle and Kyoto Gyoen to learn about Japanese history and culture. The group then visited Doshisha University, where they attended the lectures entitled "What is college education for", "The 1960s and World Revolution" and "Comic Industry" given by Prof. Campbell, Prof. Wilkins and Prof. Craig respectively.
One of the features of the study tour is the experience of Japanese culture. Courses like ‘Kyo-Yuzen’ and ‘Handmade Sushi’were most popular. In the Handmade Workshop of Kyo-Yuzen, the students designed and painted their own handkerchiefs. In other courses, students tried on Yukata and had a real taste of Teaism.
The study tour group travelled eastwards to Tokyo via Nara, Osaka, Shizuoka, Aichi and Kanagawa. They visited University of Tokyo and Waseda University, and attended lectures in the universities. Besides the modern and prosperous commercial districts like Shibuya, Shinjuku and Akihabara, the group also visited some well-known enterprises such as Asahi Breweries, Panasonic Corporation and Toyota’s Assembly Hall.
During the 13-day study tour, the students were provided with ample opportunities to gain a deeper understanding about Japan by exposing themselves to Japanese history, culture, economy and daily life. The study tour also promoted cultural communication between China and Japan. The students broadened their international horizons through cross-cultural communication.
The study tour was organized by School of Foreign Languages of SYSU, supported by XIANGFEI Global Education Group, and jointly undertaken by Japan-China Culture Community Center, Waseda University and Doshisha University.
