2025.6.16

Discovering Japanese Culture: Ikebana and Samurai History

★高知城集合写真

On Saturday, June 14, 2025, we organized a Japanese Culture Field Trip as part of our cultural immersion program. A total of 33 students participated, including 17 international students and 16 Japanese students with a strong interest in cultural exchange.

The first stop was the Early Summer Ikebana Exhibition. After viewing beautiful Japanese floral arrangements, students had the opportunity to try their hand at ikebana themselves. Some international students remarked, "I didn't know that hydrangeas play such an important seasonal role in Japan," and "Unlike the flower arrangements in my home country, Japanese ikebana can feel complete even without large flowers." These hands-on experiences provided a valuable opportunity to deepen their understanding of traditional Japanese culture.

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  • ★陣羽織_UM

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In the afternoon, the group visited the Kochi Castle Museum of History, where they participated in a "Samurai Attire Experience" and toured the exhibition rooms. Trying on samurai armor and learning about the structure of Japanese swords offered an interactive experience that sparked the students' curiosity. Many were excited to see historical artifacts--or accurate replicas of them--up close, items they had only seen in movies or on television. They eagerly took photos to capture the moment. The museum staff also engaged students with questions, encouraging thoughtful participation and lively exchange.

The tour continued with a visit to Kochi Castle, where students strolled the historic grounds and enjoyed panoramic views of the city from the towering keep, reflecting on the legacy of Tosa's samurai history.

Through this field trip, students not only experienced the richness of local culture and history firsthand but also strengthened their connections with each other and with members of the local community. We sincerely thank the members of the Kochi Prefecture Ikebana Association and the Kochi Castle Museum of History for their generous support and warm hospitality.