Introduction
Spending three weeks at Sophia University in Tokyo through the African Initiative Summer School was one of the most memorable experiences of my time at Stellenbosch University. As a Sustainable Development student, I was excited to experience a different culture, learn from new perspectives and explore a city that seemed worlds away from home. What I did not expect was how much I would learn outside the classroom. From navigating Tokyo’s busy train stations to participating in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, the experience challenged me to become more independent, open-minded and comfortable with the unfamiliar.
Pre-departure
Preparing for Japan was a mixture of excitement and nerves. I had never travelled so far from home for such an extended period, and I knew I would be living independently in a city very different from Stellenbosch. I spent time organising my travel documents, packing and researching what to expect.
Although I was excited about the opportunity, I was also aware that I would need to adapt to a new culture, language and way of life. Looking back, that uncertainty was part of what made the experience so rewarding.
Experience at host university
Sophia University was in the district Yotsuya, situated right next to Shinjuku one of the most bustling districts in Tokyo.
One of the highlights was participating in traditional Chadō, the Japanese tea ceremony, over three weeks. We learnt about the importance of preparation, respect, harmony and attention to detail, eventually presenting what we had learnt to host school staff and tea masters. The experience introduced me to the philosophy of wa, kei, sei, jaku — harmony, respect, purity and tranquillity — and encouraged me to think about how these values could influence the way I approach everyday life.
We also visited TODA Corporation, a sustainable construction company, which was particularly interesting as a Sustainable Development student. It was fascinating to see how sustainability is approached in a different context and how innovation can shape the built environment.
Outside of university, I lived near Shin-Koiwa Station and commuted into west-Tokyo each weekday. Exploring the city, trying new foods, going on hikes and navigating the public transport system became an adventure in itself. One particularly memorable moment was getting lost on a train with heavy luggage, trying to make sense of a map while the sun set and the city became dark. It was a reminder that even the most carefully planned trips come with unexpected moments!
Finances at the host country
I had to consider everyday expenses such as meals, transport and activities, while trying to make the most of the opportunities available to me.
I found that planning ahead and being mindful of my spending helped me balance exploring the city with staying within my budget. Some of my most memorable experiences, such as walking through different neighbourhoods and exploring local streets, did not require spending much money at all.
Return to SU
Returning to Stellenbosch was a strange mixture of excitement and nostalgia. I was happy to be home, but I also missed the daily adventures of living in Tokyo and the friendships I had made during the programme.
The experience gave me a greater appreciation for different ways of living and thinking. It also reminded me that learning does not only happen in a classroom; it happens when we put ourselves in unfamiliar situations, meet people with different perspectives and allow ourselves to be challenged.
Pictures
