Day 1: Onomichi, Senkoji Ropeway, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum

On the first day, participants rode the Senkoji Ropeway, one of Onomichi's most famous attractions, and enjoyed breathtaking views of the Shimanami Kaido, the Seto Inland Sea, and the charming cityscape of Onomichi as they made their way to the summit. They also enjoyed one of the city's most popular local dishes, Onomichi-style noodles.

After lunch in Onomichi, the tour visited Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Walking through the park in groups with English-speaking guides--including atomic bomb survivors who suffered internal exposure as well as second-generation survivors (children of A-bomb survivors)--the participants received explanations about the history and development of the Peace Memorial Park, the damage caused by the atomic bombing, and its long-term impact.

The tour then visited the adjacent Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, where participants gained a deeper understanding of the realities of war and the importance of peace. The visit left a strong and lasting impression on everyone.

For dinner, participants enjoyed Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki while watching the impressive cooking process on a large iron griddle. In a warm and friendly atmosphere, they naturally engaged in conversations in English, deepening connections and sharing an enjoyable time together.

Day 2: Visit to Itsukushima Shrine and Stroll Around Miyajima

On the second day, blessed with beautiful weather, participants traveled by ferry to Miyajima, a UNESCO World Heritage site. While strolling around the island, they joined an English-guided tour introducing Miyajima's history and cultural traditions.

During the tour, participants learned that Miyajima has long been revered as a sacred island, with the entire island regarded as a divine realm. For this reason, it was traditionally believed to be a place where only deities could reside, and people refrained from living on the island. Under this belief, Itsukushima Shrine was founded in the 6th century, and its present architectural style was established in the 12th century.

At Itsukushima Shrine, the striking vermilion structures harmonizing beautifully with the surrounding natural landscape left a deep impression on the participants, prompting them to share their reflections and impressions with one another.

The workshop is part of a joint human resource development project with Florida International University, The US-Japan Collaborative Research and Education Effort for Synthesis and Applications of Functional Nanomaterials. Since its launch in 2023, the workshop has been held twice, fostering discussions across diverse fields such as electrical engineering, information engineering, mechanical engineering, and biomedical engineering, with a focus on the synthesis, characterization, and applications of functional materials.

This year, the workshop welcomed participation from four overseas universities, including the University of Miami. Six interns from the University of Miami joined the program and conducted a two-month research internship in six laboratories of the School of Systems Engineering, under the supervision of Professors Chaoyang Li, Hisao Makino, Hiroshi Furuta, Associate Professor Akihito Noda, and Assistant Professor Wang Liao.

During the workshop, the interns presented the outcomes of their research in poster sessions. Thirteen KUT students also delivered their research presentations in English, demonstrating their strong ability to communicate research findings in an international setting.

The program further featured lectures by four invited speakers, who shared the latest research findings and technological trends in nanomaterials, offering valuable insights into advanced processing techniques.

【Invited Speakers】
Dr. Chunlei Wang (University of Miami / Photo 1)
Dr. Marc Madou (Tecnológico de Monterrey / University of California, Irvine / Photo 2)
Dr. Rodrigo Martinez-Duarte (Clemson University)
Dr. Hongbin Song (The Chinese University of Hong Kong)

Faculty members from the United States highly praised the interns' achievements, noting the impressive quality of the research outcomes accomplished within just two months. Their remarks once again underscored the excellence of research guidance provided at KUT.

Through initiatives such as this workshop, academic ties between Japanese and U.S. universities are further strengthened, while promoting greater collaboration and exchange among researchers and students.

President Chono met with H.E. Mr. Sibi George, Ambassador of India to Japan, to express KUT's strong interest in deepening research collaboration with Indian universities. He also conveyed the university's hope to welcome outstanding Indian students into its doctoral programs. The two parties exchanged views on further enhancing academic ties between Japan and India.

The event also featured traditional Indian cultural performances, offering attendees a valuable opportunity to experience and appreciate India's rich heritage. It served as a meaningful occasion to foster greater mutual understanding and friendship.

KUT has established academic exchange agreements with leading Indian institutions, including the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) in 2017 and Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) in 2021. These partnerships have facilitated ongoing student and faculty exchanges. Since 2020, KUT has also maintained regular dialogue with the Indian Ambassador to promote stronger bilateral academic relations.

KUT will continue to strengthen partnerships with Indian universities through joint research, academic mobility, and other collaborative initiatives.

[Recent Engagements with the Embassy of India and Related Offices in Japan]

Consul General and Vice Consul General of India, Osaka-Kobe Visit KUT　
【Posted on February 7, 2025】

Diwali Celebration with Support from the Embassy of India in Japan
【Posted on November 6, 2024】

Ambassador of India to Japan paid a courtesy visit to Kochi University of Technology
【Posted on February 8, 2024】

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.

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.

Currently, the university hosts two international students and three researchers from India. It has also established exchange agreements with the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay since 2017 and Vellore Institute of Technology since 2021. Furthermore, in February of last year, Mr. Sibi George, the Ambassador of India to Japan, visited our university, and in November of that year, the embassy supported the Diwali event held at the KUT International House, further strengthening our ties.

During their visit, Consul General Appar and Vice Consul General Garg held discussions with President Shigeomi Chono and Professor Li Chaoyang, Director of the International Relations Center. They reflected on past interactions and confirmed their mutual intention to strengthen cooperation in education, research, and student exchange moving forward.

After lunch, the delegation engaged in conversations with Indian researchers and Ph.D. students. Each of them shared details about their research and life at KUT, while the consuls listened attentively. The discussions also covered initiatives to promote studying in Japan and strategies to strengthen academic exchanges between the two countries. The students gained valuable insights and experiences from the dialogue.

The delegation consisted of five members: Mr. Wang Shouguo, Vice President of Anhui University; Mr. Zheng Jian, Vice President of Anhui Polytechnic University; Mr. Yao De Yong, Director of the Anhui Provincial Department of Education; Mr. Tang Qianyou, Deputy Dean of Anhui University; and Ms. Cao Ruilan, Director of Anhui University of Technology.

During the meeting, President Chono introduced the history of our university and highlighted the distinctive features of its education and research. He also expressed gratitude toward Anhui University, with which we have been actively exchanging since signing a university agreement in 2012, and emphasized his hope that this visit would serve as an opportunity to initiate exchanges with Anhui Polytechnic University and Anhui University of Technology.

In response to President Chono's remarks, Mr. Wang Shouguo, Vice President of Anhui University, stated, "In recent years, Anhui Province has made significant progress in the field of science and technology. We hope to expand educational collaboration with Kochi University of Technology and deepen student exchanges."

Following the meeting, the delegation from Anhui Province presented a commemorative gift of "Iron Painting," a traditional craft of Anhui Province, while KUT presented a "Pine Decoration Fan" as a token of exchange.

Prior to the meeting, the delegation visited the Eikokuji campus and then toured the Clean Room and the University Library and Academic Information Resources at the Kami campus. They listened attentively to explanations by Prof. Li Chaoyang, Director of the International Relations Center, and expressed strong interest in the buildings and research facilities.

Day 1: Nankinmachi, Kitano Ijinkan-gai, Kobe Harborland

On the first day, we visited popular tourist spots in Kobe. The tour began at Nankinmachi, where everyone enjoyed exploring the area in groups. Guided by Japanese and Chinese students, participants delighted in trying various street foods.

We next visited Kitano Ijinkan-gai, a district of historical Western-style buildings exuding an exotic atmosphere. While walking through the hilly streets, participants discovered the unique characteristics of each house, captured the moments in photos, and discussed aspects of various cultures.
The day concluded at Kobe Harborland, where participants admired the beautiful harbor night view. Participants relaxed and enjoyed conversations there.

Day 2: Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden
On the second day, we visited Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite the rainy weather, participants enjoyed a guided tour that highlighted the castle's rich history and architectural charm. Participants also had fun answering quizzes and sharing their impressions of the castle's unique design, which provided an opportunity for deeper interaction among students.

Later, we explored Koko-en Garden, where participants strolled through the serene paths and experienced the beauty and tranquility of a traditional Japanese garden.

Feedback from students indicated that interactions in hotel rooms and within their groups deepened their friendships. In addition, both international and Japanese students engaged in conversations about each other's cultures and values, providing a rich opportunity for cultural exchange.

Diwali is one of the three major festivals in India, celebrating the triumph of light (good) over darkness (evil). The festival lasts for five days, typically falling between October and November, and marks the New Year in the Indian calendar. Also known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is characterized by fireworks, firecrackers, and the illumination of streets and homes with colorful lights.

This event was proposed by the Indian Ambassador to Japan, H.E. Mr. Sibi George, who visited Kochi University of Technology (KUT) in February this year to discuss the development of exchange initiatives between KUT and India. The Embassy of India in Japan graciously provided sweets, a lamp, and a video message from the Ambassador.

Around 75 students, faculty, staff, and officials attended the event in the Communication Hall, which was beautifully decorated with traditional sand paintings, flowers, and candle-shaped lamps. On behalf of KUT, Professor Daniel, International Relations Center delivered the opening remarks. Following this, traditional songs and dances were performed by Indian faculty, students, and their associates, accompanied by an explanation of Diwali.

Guests enjoyed homemade curry and sweets prepared by Indian international students, and the evening was filled with fireworks and dancing. The night passed quickly, offering a valuable opportunity for participants to deepen mutual understanding and appreciate cultural diversity.

--

Professor Shigeomi Chono, President of KUT, welcomed the new students, saying "I hope you'll enjoy the process even if your research ends in failure and you'll realize how significant KUT system is, how deep studying is, and how interesting learning is. I look forward to witnessing the incredible contributions you will make, not only to your respective fields but also to society as a whole.

Next, on behalf of entrants, Ms. Natasya Ghinna Humaira, a doctoral student in the Engineering Course, Graduate School of Engineering, gave a speech, saying "Today, we are not only entering a university--we are stepping into a world of limitless possibilities. This path will not always be easy, but it is through overcoming challenges that we grow the most. In Japan, there is a concept I admire deeply--gambaru--which means to do your best and never give up, no matter how difficult the challenge. Let this spirit guide us throughout our journey, reminding us to push forward even when the road seems tough."

On the same day, a welcome party for new students was held at International House. Chair of the International Relations Center, Prof. Li Chaoyang, along with about 50 current Japanese and international students, welcomed the new students.

Congratulations to all the new students on their enrollment.

--

Following the conferral of degrees, Professor CHONO Shigeomi, the President of Kochi University of Technology addressed the graduates, stating, "As you now embark on new pathsーwhether out in the real world or in the advanced research environment of graduate schoolーI hope you will fully utilize the knowledge and experiences you have accumulated. I expect you to courageously tackle the various challenges that lie ahead. Many of you will leave the campus, but Kochi University of Technology will always be here to provide support. Please consider this your second home, and feel free to return to Kochi anytime."

On behalf of the graduating students, Dr. ZHANG Hongtao expressed, "It is a great honor to stand before you today as the representative of the graduating Ph.D. class and as a recipient of the Sakuma Award. At Kochi University of Technology, I learned the value of community, the beauty of perseverance, and the joy of discovery. The challenges we face today, from climate change to global healthcare issues, are complex and interconnected requiring technical innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, ethical reflection, and a global perspective to solve. To my fellow graduates, this is not the end but the beginning of a new chapter. Let's carry forward the knowledge, passion, and perseverance we've developed and use them to make a meaningful impact."

Congratulations to all our graduates! We wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

--