JAC Japan Trip 2025

Earlier this summer, a group of passionate JAC members embarked on a 14-day journey across Kansai to Kanto regions. Over two weeks, we visited 5 universities across 3 regions, met inspiring students and professors, and experienced Japanese Culture firsthand.

Kansai Region: Osaka & Kyoto 🍡🎓

Our journey in Kansai began in Osaka, a vibrant city known for its friendly locals and, of course, its takoyaki!

At Ritsumeikan University, JAC members had the opportunity to join an international exchange session with students not only from Japan, but also from the US and China. Over lunch, we discussed the differences in university life across our countries. The hospitality of the Ritsumeikan students didn’t stop there — they brought us on a campus and lab facilities tour hosted by the Psychology Department.

Exchange session at Ritsumeikan University

We were amazed by the variety of research spaces available:

●       A pigeon room for behavioural psychology,

●       A dark room for cognitive and sensory psychology,

●       A kids’ playroom for developmental psychology,

●       And even a Japanese-style home setting for studying elderly movements and potential risk factors in daily life — part of Japan’s ongoing efforts to improve elderly care.

Display of old psychology research equipment in Ritsumeikan University

At Osaka University, we were privileged to be invited into a class at the Osaka School of International Public Policy (OSIPP) by Professor Haruko Satoh, who kindly welcomed us to experience academic life there. Outside the classroom, we enjoyed the beauty of nature at Minoh Park, where we visited its famous waterfall — a refreshing break from the city bustle.

Nagoya: Cultural Immersion & Food Adventures 🍲⛩️

In Nagoya, our trip blended culture, history, and food. We began with a visit to the serene Atsuta Jingu Shrine, followed by an afternoon at the Railway Museum, where some of us had fun challenging ourselves with the train simulators.

And of course, no trip to Nagoya is complete without food. We braved an hour-long queue in the drizzle just to try the legendary Yabaton miso katsu — and it was absolutely worth the wait!

Yabaton miso katsu

Inuyama Castle

Kanto Region: Tokyo & Yokohama 🏙️

Our Kanto leg started with a nostalgic ride on the Sakura Tram that brought us to Waseda University. There, we were given a special tour of the campus, including the inside of the historic Okuma Auditorium, which is usually closed to the public. We wrapped up our visit with lunch at the student canteen alongside our Waseda student hosts — simple but memorable.

Campus tour in Waseda University

At Showa Women’s University, we enjoyed a cultural exchange session filled with interactive activities and lots of laughter.

At Yokohama City University, JAC members joined an English class where students introduced their university and shared must-see spots around Yokohama. In return, we gave them a glimpse into Singapore’s education system. Like true students everywhere, we bonded best over lunch at their cafeteria — nothing beats food for making new friends!

Lunch at Yokohama City University with the students

Reflections on the Journey 🌸

Over the course of 14 days, our JAC team visited five universities across three regions of Japan. Each stop gave us something unique — from academic exchanges and cultural activities to personal friendships and unforgettable food adventures.

More than just sightseeing, the trip allowed us to experience Japan through the eyes of its students, professors, and locals. We gained fresh perspectives on education and research, and we also shared a piece of Singapore with our Japanese friends.

Most importantly, the journey brought our members closer together. Whether it was figuring out the train system, queuing in the rain for dinner, or laughing through language mix-ups, we built memories that we’ll carry far beyond this trip.

We’re grateful to all the universities and students who welcomed us so warmly, and we look forward to continuing these connections in the years to come. Until next time — またね, Japan! ✈️

Hear from the members and see how their experience was like!

“I will greatly appreciate the interconnected of cultures and influences of Singapore and Japan, and treasure the friendships made with Japanese universities students” - JAC Member

“We were able to immerse ourselves in Japanese culture while also helping the Japanese students understand more about Singapore and life in NTU.” - JAC Member

“This trip has broadened my horizons in terms of the world we live in. There are many different countries and cultures around the world and each with a different way of thinking and living. It is crucial to garner ideas from one another and understand each other to have society progress far.” - JAC Member