選單
From July 10 to 14, 2025, a group of 36 students embarked on an enriching study tour to Osaka, Japan, with day trips to Nara and Kyoto. We explored popular sites in Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto and had the special opportunity to attend the World Expo held every five years. The purpose of the trip was to expose our students to Japanese culture and to showcase the technologies and innovative solutions to global challenges featured at the World Expo 2025. Here’s a vivid recount of our five-day adventure:
Day 1: Arrival in Osaka
Our journey began with a hiccup—a delayed flight—but the students’ patience shone through at the airport. Landing in Osaka at 5:30 PM, we checked into the Welina Hotel Premier Nakanoshima EAST. After settling in, students savored their first taste of Japan at nearby eateries. Some students indulged in steaming bowls of local ramen while some tried Halal-friendly dishes in Japan. The planned visit to Shinsaibashi was rescheduled for Day 4, allowing everyone to recharge after the long day.
Day 2: World Expo 2025
The group dove into the global spectacle of World Expo 2025, a bustling showcase of innovation. Despite the crowds and challenges securing pavilion reservations, some students braved long lines under the summer sun to explore cultures and cutting-edge technologies from around the world. The vibrant displays sparked curiosity and awe. That evening, we ventured to an underground street lined with restaurants and shops near the hotel. Students picked their favorite spots for dinner and enjoyed browsing, soaking in Osaka’s lively urban vibe.
Day 3: Nara’s Charm and Osaka’s Science
Our day began at the tranquil Nara Park, where students were enchanted by the gentle deer, famous for their polite bows in exchange for biscuits. Some cheeky ones playfully nudged or gave soft nibbles to coax more treats, delighting everyone. At the nearby Kasuga Taisha Shrine, we were captivated by the exquisite wooden architecture and immersed in Japan’s rich Shinto traditions, learning about their spiritual significance. In the afternoon, the Osaka Science Museum brought science to life with engaging interactive exhibits and lively demonstrations, sparking curiosity and making learning a joy. For dinner, we took a 10-minute stroll to a department store near Osaka JR Station. The vibrant streets buzzed with Japanese city life, and the upscale mall offered a blend of traditional and modern shopping, complemented by delectable meals.
Day 4: Kyoto’s Heritage and Osaka’s Bustle
The day began with a hands-on Japanese sweets-making workshop, where students crafted delicate wagashi, savoring their creations on-site or saving them as gifts for family. Next, we journeyed to Kyoto, ascending the scenic Ninenzaka path to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. This iconic site, harmoniously nestled in nature, showcased breathtaking architecture and seasonal beauty. Students cooled off with matcha ice cream and drinks from nearby shops. Back in Osaka, we explored the vibrant Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori districts, snapping a group photo by the iconic Glico sign. Dinner and leisurely strolling through the lively shopping streets immersed us in local culture.
Day 5: History and Farewells
Our final day started at the majestic Osaka Castle, a symbol of Japan’s storied past. Students learned about its pivotal role in the unification of Japan during the Sengoku period and the legacy of the Shogunate. The trip concluded at Rinku Sennan AEON Mall, where students enjoyed a final meal and shopped for souvenirs to share with loved ones, capping off an unforgettable adventure.
This study tour was a perfect blend of cultural immersion and forward-looking innovation, leaving students with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for Japan’s heritage and its contributions to global progress.
