Building upon the framework of student exchange activities between Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City (IUH) and Tokyo University of Technology (TUT), IUH students immersed themselves in studying and exchanging cultures in Japan from January 14 to 20, 2024. With wholehearted support from professors and students at TUT, the journey became an unforgettable experience for IUH students. Join us as we delve into the journey through the diary of Lam Do Ngoc Quy, a student from the IUH Faculty of Electrical Engineering.
Japan - Unforgettable days
On the first day, upon our arrival in the country, we were warmly welcomed by Professor Hara, an IUH student interning in Japan, and a TUT student. Afterwards, we boarded the train and headed to the Inter-University Seminar House.
Photo of the Faculty of Electrical Technology taken with a TUT student at Narita.
Some photos of myself at Narita Airport.
On January 15th, we journeyed to TUT where we attended a lecture titled "Aerodynamics in Mosquito Flight and its Application" delivered by Associate Professor Nakada from Chiba University. During the lecture, I gained insight into the teaching methods of Japanese professors, understanding their perspectives on studying and working. Most notably, Associate Professor Nakada lectured on the intricate flight mechanism of mosquitoes, providing us with valuable knowledge and understanding.
Photos of everyone engaging in the lecture from Associate Professor Nakada.
Following the lecture, we had the freedom to explore and tour the TUT campus. The campus made a profound impression on me with its expansive infrastructure. We visited the CMC (Ceramic Matrix Composites) center of TUT and witnessed their cutting-edge research. Theoretical classrooms were fully equipped to facilitate student learning, while the practical rooms boasted ample space and invaluable equipment for hands-on practice.
Some pictures of Tokyo University of Technology.
Image of CMC center and TUT school bus.
After our visit to TUT, we proceeded to JAXA—the Japanese space agency. There, researchers provided us with insights into their rockets and spacecraft, detailing the materials used in their construction, their operational principles, and their missions. Of particular interest was the SLIM (Smart Lander for Investigating Moon) mission, which successfully landed on the moon on January 20. It came as a surprise to learn about SLIM from the researchers, and upon our return to Vietnam, we heard the news of its successful landing. During our time at JAXA, I had the opportunity to observe meteorite fragments, satellites, and soil samples collected from space, witnessing firsthand the remarkable achievements of JAXA's operations, which are truly commendable.
Some images from the Japan Space Agency JAXA.
Following our visit to JAXA, we enjoyed a meal at a restaurant in Hachioji alongside TUT professors and students. It marked my first experience dining at a Japanese restaurant, where I savored the essence of Japanese cuisine, ranging from sushi to traditional dishes prepared in the Japanese style. Japanese wines, with their diverse processing methods, offered a rich and delightful tasting experience. It was particularly memorable that Professor Arakawa facilitated our tasting of a wide variety of Japanese wines at the restaurant.
Some pictures from the party at the restaurant in Hachioji.
On 16 January, we continued to move to TUT and participated in 3 lectures from TUT instructors. The lecture "Topics related to life cycle assessment" from Prof. Egashira, "Sustainable Engineering of Trains and Trams" from Prof. Takagi. I was especially impressed with the teaching and imparting knowledge by Prof. Kagawa (Rector of TUT) and the visit to the R&D facility at CMC Center. Thereby, I better understand the purpose and application of CMC in practice.
Some pictures at Tokyo University of Technology.
Afterward, we embarked on the Japanese bullet train – Shinkansen – for a visit to Odawara Castle. Renowned as the fastest train globally, experiencing speeds exceeding 300 km/h was truly awe-inspiring. Upon arrival at Odawara Castle, guided by Professor Hara's insights, I discovered that it ranks as the 7th tallest castle in Japan. Exploring the castle grounds provided me with invaluable knowledge about its history, artifacts, costumes, weapons, and ancient Japanese culture. From the top floor, I marveled at the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Japan's Sagami Bay.
Some commemorative photos at Odarawa Castle and Shinkansen.
On January 17th, we toured the facilities of Tobe Shoji Company, Tokyo's largest recycling company. During the visit, I had the opportunity to meet two fellow Vietnamese individuals who are also employed there, providing me with insights into the work and life of Vietnamese people living and working in Japan. Exploring Tobe Shoji's factories, I witnessed firsthand their operational processes, including material sorting for recycling and disposal. It was remarkable to see the various methods employed to protect the environment, as they ingeniously transformed seemingly useless waste into valuable resources, ultimately generating profit while contributing to environmental sustainability.
Commemorative photo of IUH delegation with Tobe Shoji company.
Following that, we journeyed to Asakusa to engage in a lesson on Japan's tea ceremony culture. During this experience, I immersed myself in the behaviors and etiquettes observed by Japanese tea drinkers. Additionally, I gained insights into the deeper meanings embedded within the ritualistic exchanges of the tea ceremony.
Commemorative photos at Japan's tea ceremony cultural exchange.
After the tea ceremony cultural exchange, our journey led us to Miraikan – the National Museum of Science and Innovation, established by the Japan Science and Technology Agency. Here, I was exposed to Japan's remarkable scientific advancements, spanning human history, the universe, and fascinating applications of science.
Some pictures at Miraikan.
Following our visit to Miraikan, we strolled through downtown Tokyo, marveling at the skyscrapers adorned with unique designs and encountering tour groups from various countries. Our journey led us to Shibuya, the bustling business district surrounding Shibuya Station.
Some pictures in downtown Tokyo and Shibuya.
On January 18th, we journeyed to TUT to attend a lecture on Lignin materials delivered by Professor Yamashita. During the session, we engaged in exchanges regarding the research conducted by TUT students and lecturers. This experience provided valuable insights into the research objectives of TUT faculty and students. Additionally, we had the opportunity to engage in practical activities in the school's laboratory and exchange ideas on studying and researching with Japanese students.
IUH poses for a commemorative photo after her practice session with Lignin.
Some photos exchanged between IUH and TUT students.
On January 19th, our final day in Japan, we visited TechLab and Lush. TechLab specializes in the manufacturing and processing of materials derived from Carbon, focusing on two types: Pitch and Pan. These materials boast superior properties compared to conventional ones, including enhanced durability, thermal conductivity, and lighter weight. Additionally, we explored Lush, where handmade cosmetics crafted from natural ingredients are produced. From their delightful scents to their remarkable effectiveness, these products epitomize simplicity and quality.
Some pictures at TechLab company.
Some pictures at the Lush company.
At the conclusion of our journey, we gathered for a farewell party with TUT faculty and students. On January 20th, our group bid farewell to the professors and students at TUT before departing for Vietnam.
Throughout the trip, I acquired invaluable knowledge and experiences in Japan, while also fostering close relationships with professors, TUT students in particular, and Japanese people in general. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to participate in such a beneficial international student exchange program. I extend my sincere thanks to the teachers, lecturers, and students from both IUH and TUT for their assistance in making this trip so memorable and rewarding.
- Some other pictures of you in Japan:
Some commemorative photos in Japan.
Commemorative photo with Professor Yuki Ueno.
Photos after the farewell party in Japan.
Photos of students of the Faculty of Electrical Technology with professors and TUT students at Hachioji.
Students of the Faculty of Electrical Technology took commemorative photos with Mr. Dat and TUT students.
Commemorative photos of IUH and TUT students.
Farewell party at TUT.
