Japanese Studies students' journey of exchange and field research in Ha Tinh.

This is an annual event between the Japanese Studies Department of VNU-USSH and the Faculty of Sociology, KSU. The program is guided by Prof. Kato Atsufumi (Kyoto Sangyo University), Mr. Do Van Kien (Institute of Vietnamese Studies and Development Science), and Dr. Nguyen Phuong Thuy (Faculty of Oriental Studies, University of Social Sciences and Humanities).

Four students and graduate students majoring in Japanese Studies, namely Nguyen Thi Thuy Ngan (graduate student), Vu Thi Lan Anh (K67), Nguyen Thi The Ngoc (K67), and Nguyen Anh Tuan (K68), along with 18 students from Kyoto Sangyo University, divided into four research groups and independently selected topics relevant to local people to conduct sociological surveys.

KSU and USSH students participate in a field trip to Ha Tinh province in 2026.

With the goal of understanding the differences in perceptions of love and marriage between men and women, the Love - Marriage group explored various aspects such as premarital love, getting to know someone and using dating apps, the influence of friends and family on romantic decisions, and how roles are divided within the family after marriage.

The Culinary Group focused on exploring the local culinary culture and how people adapt to the summer weather. Members conducted interviews at several families, local markets, and beverage shops in Mai Phụ, and also experienced preparing and cooking a traditional Vietnamese family meal with the enthusiastic support of local residents.

With the goal of gaining a deeper understanding of the local education system and situation, the Education team conducted observations, school visits, and direct interviews with teachers at various schools. Through this, the team gained new insights beyond document research and developed a comparative perspective between the education systems of the two countries.

The Circulation Group investigated the circulation and distribution of agricultural and seafood products cultivated and caught locally. The group conducted surveys at various locations, from hands-on experience at shrimp farms and learning about trading activities at local markets to visiting a traditional candy factory. Through these experiences, the group had the opportunity to directly observe how the products are produced, circulated, and how they are integrated into the local economy.

Traffic Management Team at the shrimp farm in Gia My village

The Culinary Group experiences cooking with local families.

Preparing for the Japanese Summer Festival at Thach Chau Elementary School.

In particular, on August 14th, the delegation organized a cultural exchange and experience event with Japan at Thach Chau Primary School. From enjoying soba noodles, wearing yukata, folding origami, and painting to group games like basketball (玉入れ) and "Eye of the Storm" (台風の目)..., the activities quickly created a lively, exciting, and friendly atmosphere between the students and the local children. Laughter, cheers, and many fun moments have become a memorable part of the trip to Ha Tinh.

A week in Ha Tinh was not only a survey and data collection trip, but also an opportunity for students from both universities to learn, exchange ideas, and examine familiar issues in Vietnamese life from different perspectives. Interviews, meals, tours, classes, and everyday conversations helped bridge the gap between the two cultures, fostering closer ties.

The delegation of students from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities expressed their sincere gratitude to the teachers of Kyoto Sangyo University and the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, the staff at the People's Committee of Mai Phu commune, the teachers of Thach Chau Primary School, and the local people of Mai Phu commune for creating opportunities for students from both universities to interact, learn, and create many profound memories.