Nariko Takayangi from the Asian studies department and Akemi Takei from the Modern Languages Department led Japan Field Studies from May 11th to June 19th, 2015. This program was a unique and enriching experience for the students who would like to learn about traditional Japanese culture, history, and language. The entire program was created, planned, managed, and conducted by the two Japanese instructors who were able to bring out the insider’s perspective as well as culturally nuanced approach to the subject matter.
Below is a brief summary, view the full Japan Field Studies Report for more details and the full photo gallery showcasing the students’ experiences.
After having two-week-long intensive lectures at Langara, we spent a week in Tokyo, taking subway everywhere (with a group of 19!) to visit various sites. We observed how the gigantic metropolitan city with highly advanced technology still have the aspects of traditional past. Then we moved to the historically and culturally rich ancient capital, Kyoto for another two and a half weeks. We visited various temples and shrines (including a Ninja House and a Shogun’s Palace), participated in workshops, such as Zen meditation, traditional Japanese sweets making and a tea ceremony. These “hands-on”, experiential learning opportunities with the availability of the instructor’s explanation and lectures on-site made this field program educationally very rich one.
Also while we were in Kyoto, we were fortunate to be assisted by 34 volunteer students from Ryukoku University (one of our affiliated university in Japan). During the Japanese language class, these “buddies” became our valuable tutors and conversation partners. On our free time and weekends, a lot of fun activities took place, ranging from hiking, cycling, playing sports, karaoke, sightseeing, shopping and cooking meals together. Through these activities, our students were able to experience cultural immersion and build cross-cultural friendship. A field studies program like this is so valuable and effective to promote globally minded citizenship in the post-secondary education.
We hope to offer our next Japan Field Studies in the coming years.
Submitted by Nariko Takayanagi, Asian Studies
