Time really flies and we have already reached the end of the first course, Introduction to Japanese Language. It has really been a wonderful experience learning from the senseis and learning alongside students from universities across the world! During the 8-days course, we learned how to make short self-introductions, ask for directions, ask for prices, make basic comments etc. Although this knowledge is far from sufficient for me to enjoy Japanese dramas, books and other entertainment completely, it's a start and I'm prepared to try to self-study some Japanese after the course.
As a study trip, Todai arranged for us to visit the town of Kamakura. Once a political center of Japan, Kamakura now is a famous tourist attraction. The old historic town is sometimes acclaimed as the Kyoto of Eastern Japan, and is filled with temples, shrines and other historical monuments.
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
绘马(ema): wooden boards that people can buy and write their wishes on
Kenchoji Temple
group photo at Kotokuin Temple (Daibutsu - a bronze Buddha statue towering 11.31m)
Kamakura is different from the modern metropolitan city of Tokyo in many ways. I've learned so much about historic Japanese culture here and I really enjoyed the trip. Some other attractions worth visiting are the Kamegayatsuzaka Pass, Kewaizaka pass and Zeniarai Benten Shrine. We missed these spots due to time constraints. Although town is slightly far, being about 2hours drive away from Todai, it is definitely worth the time to make it there and immerse in the remnants of the Japanese past.
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