A Brilliant Kyoto Summer 2026: A Journey of Discovery for VNU-USSH Students in Japan

The Kyoto Summer Program is an annual program organized by Kyoto University that brings together many talented students from across Asia and Europe with the aim of building a foundation for developing close relationships with Japan and Kyoto University. In 2026, the program welcomed 53 students from universities around the world. This is a valuable opportunity for two students from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities to learn from the dynamic students of Kyoto University, discuss and exchange perspectives with international friends, introduce Vietnamese culture, and thus build beautiful cross-national friendships.

Lan Anh and The Ngoc participated in the Kyoto Summer Program 2026.

For over two weeks, two female students from VNU-USSH immersed themselves in a vibrant and modern international academic environment. Within the program, they participated in Japanese language classes tailored to their proficiency levels, and actively engaged in discussions to prepare for presentations. Furthermore, the two students had the opportunity to attend in-depth lectures from leading professors. Gaining insightful perspectives from top professors at Kyoto University on history, culture, science, and modern societal issues such as sustainable food production and science and technology in the climate age provided them with an invaluable opportunity to broaden their knowledge.

Students participating in the Ikebana class.

Students participating in the Japanese language class.

The students discussed their final presentation.

Beyond the pages of a book, the Kyoto Summer Program is a journey into the depths of Japanese culture through exciting cultural experiences and experiential trips such as: hand-arranging flowers in the art of Ikebana; laughing heartily at the unique humor of Rakugo storytelling; and marveling at the artistic depth and meticulousness of the dances in classical Noh theater. In particular, the field trip to Osaka Castle and Expo's 70 Commemorative Park fostered multinational friendships through shared challenges. These were vibrant moments of discovery, leaving unforgettable impressions of the Kansai region.

A group of students from Vietnam, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, and Taiwan participated in an exchange program in the classroom.

Students receive support from the Japan Foundation at the Yoshida Campus Multipurpose Room, Kyoto University.

After the trip, student Nguyen Thi The Ngoc shared: “Throughout the two weeks, we participated in many lectures, each offering a new perspective on Japanese society, culture, and people. Among them, the lecture that impressed me the most was “Whaling in Japan: Cultural Politics of Food and Conservation” by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wakamatsu Fumitaka. A particular analysis made me think: according to Cultural Structuralism, whales are very difficult to categorize into familiar groups because they are marine mammals, very large in size, and highly intelligent. This “not belonging to a clear group” has made whales the subject of many taboos in some cultures. Meanwhile, Cultural Materialism explains this phenomenon from a conditional perspective.” Material aspects: a whale can provide a huge amount of meat, and as hunting technology develops, whales become an efficient and inexpensive food source. Cultural studies should not be viewed from only one perspective but should consider multiple factors… This is also a way of thinking that I want to cultivate more and apply to my future Japanese studies.”

The Japanese Studies classes at VNU-USSH equipped us with knowledge about Japan and its people. The Japan Foundation provided us with the opportunity to see and experience firsthand what we had learned. We truly cherish this opportunity. The 16-day trip, which added brilliance to our student life, has come to an end, but the invaluable experiences and beautiful memories of Lan Anh and The Ngoc will always be a brilliant asset, motivating the young students of the Faculty of Oriental Studies to continue striving and conquering new heights!