Submitted by Erika Relyea on the 2016 summer session program in Kobe, Japan sponsored by the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures…
Kyoto
On our first weekend, we went to Kyoto with a small group of Kobe Shoin students. Our first destination was Fushimi Inari, a shrine famous for its innumerous surrounding gates. We didn’t have time to walk the entire course up the mountain, but we were able to see the Go-Handen, the main shrine. There, we sent a prayer to the goddess of rice and food.
From Fushimi-Inari, we made our way to Arashiyama, meaning storm mountain. Arashiyama is known for its bamboo grove.
Kobe Shoin Culture
Our first culture class at the university was on Kadou, the art of Japanese flower arranging. I was surprised to find how calming an art form it is, and this class was a first for many students. As for club activities, I visited the traditional music club this week and was given the opportunity to play the Koto, a traditional Japanese instrument. I was surprised at how the music is read: notes are written in kanji that correspond with the strings.
Nara Homestay
The first thing I did when I arrived in Nara was visit Todaiji, where the daibutsu statue is located. Nearby is Nara Park, where many deer come during the day. I had my worries about staying with a host family in Nara, but my experience was very welcoming.
