Summer Session (Japanese Language and Cultural Studies)

“Nishijin weaving workshop visit and lecture”

We had a lot of positive feedback from the students such as, “In the Noh class, we were able to experience the classical art of Noh not only by watching a powerful Noh dance performance, but also by learning the actual dance movements and chants and wearing Noh masks and costumes.” “During the aikido experience, I was fascinated by the fact that aikido is not only about learning techniques, but also about cultivating the mind and spiritual growth.” “Entering the tea room for the tea ceremony class was a quiet, solemn, and peaceful experience. The teacher's guidance was very helpful in understanding the spirit of the tea ceremony.” “Through the eco-friendly manufacturing class, I learned about efforts to address environmental issues. The satisfaction and sense of accomplishment from the activity of making cute decorations out of scrap wood was unique and made me feel like a child again.” Because these classes incorporated many practical skills and hands-on experiences, the students were able to deepen their understanding of traditional culture and environmental issues.　

Regarding off-campus classes to experience Kyoto and Japanese culture, some participants added comments such as, “In a class on the Gion Festival, I learned about the work behind the festival and was impressed by the passion of the people of Hokomachi for the festival and the traditional techniques used to build the festival floats.” “In the Nishijin textile class, I understood Kyoto's manufacturing spirit through the beauty of its textiles. At the same time, we learned about the severe situation surrounding traditional industries: aging weavers, lack of successors, and shrinking kimono market.” Students learned that there are people who are making great efforts with pride, love, responsibility, and a sense of duty to carry on Kyoto's traditional events and Kyoto's traditional industries, which are in danger of extinction. In addition, it was a unique experience for them to step into a traditional Kyoto machiya house, and they learned more than just “a cultural experience”.

“Observation of Ofune-hoko festival float assembly hall and float erection”

The following comments were received in a questionnaire from the students after the entire program was completed.
Regarding the Japanese classes, “The teachers taught us with enthusiasm.” Regarding the final presentation on the last day of the program, “I was happy when I was able to present my Japanese for the first time.”
“I felt satisfied that my Japanese had improved considerably.”
These comments gave us a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction from the students. After each presentation, instead of a Q&A session, a group discussion was held on a topic related to the theme of the presentation, and some participants commented that they enjoyed the casual exchange of opinions on various topics. Regarding the interaction with volunteer study partners, one participant commented, “The memories of the past month with the volunteers are treasures I will never forget,”making it an invaluable time of exchange for the students. Regarding the program as a whole, over 90% of the students said they would recommend the program to their friends and juniors, as they felt it was “one of the most special experiences of my life” and “I gained knowledge and friendship with my peers.” We believe that we have achieved results that will lead to the future.

Unlike the online sessions held in previous years, this year we were able to strongly feel the benefits of face-to-face classes. The first was the camaraderie among the students and volunteer study partners. The second is that our university's geographical location in the center of Kyoto City has enabled us to conduct classes by many people involved in carrying on traditions. Students were able to visit the workplaces of traditional inheritors and learn the depth of traditional culture through valuable observation and hands-on opportunities.

The CGJ hopes to continue to organize enriching programs that meet the wishes of its students.