In BBK International to Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences (TUPLS), Japan, students are exposed to cultural exchanges and learn the norms of Japan. The activities aim to expand students’ perspectives on cultural diversity and foster empathy, which are the main qualities when facing the global world.

On the third day, students are given a small lesson regarding the norms of disposing of garbage in Japan during their stay. Due to Japan’s limited landmass, Japan developed a system of collecting and transporting waste, in which the trash has to be separated before being processed. This is to prevent environmental pollution in the areas surrounding densely populated cities. Students learn the different types of waste and how to sort them before throwing them into the garbage bin. This activity is part of Japan’s journey towards a sustainable society, following the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 11, “Sustainable Cities and Communities.”

When taking part in the open campus booth, students introduce Indonesian culture and traditions to Japanese society, especially to high school students and university students. Participants thoroughly explained Indonesian culture to the audience and demonstrated examples.

They also visited various places that were part of the traditional heritage of the area. In Shinjuku, the students received an opportunity to learn about the historical significance of the Meiji Emperor’s imperial virtues at the Meiji Memorial Museum. Here, they knew how modernization was brought to Japan and paved the way for Japan to become a significant international power today.

Another stop for the cultural visit activity is Chuo, where students stop by at the famous spot within the area. First, they went to Hamarikyu Gardens. Students observed traditional houses and experienced the Japanese tea ceremony tradition in the Nakajima Tea House, which was once a resting place served for the Shogun, connecting them to Japan’s cultural roots. The visit continued to Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, a Buddhist temple near the Tsukiji Outer Market. Students learn about the historical aspect of the temple, as well as the deity and the statues of the Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, leaving students with a lasting sense of the profound history that shapes modern Japan. From this, students gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and traditions, creating a platform for cultural exchange during the BBK International activity in Japan.

Through these activities, students gained a rich perspective of Japanese traditions, contributing to and shaping the community towards a sustainable, balanced life between the past, the present, and the future. This exchange of culture and visits, from gardens to temple grounds, offers a vivid encounter with Japan’s enduring legacy, inspiring curiosity and respect for its traditions.