From Feb 24 to Mar 5, 2025, HUFLIT was honored to host a crew of students from Ibaraki Christian University (IC) for our “STUDY AT HUFLIT” cultural exchange program.
We welcomed 12 students and two professors, including Prof. Naomi Ueno (former IC Rector, Modern English Dept.) and Prof. Yukikazu Obata (Associate Professor, Elementary Education), who came to dive into Vietnam’s academic vibe and cultural scene.
Over the span of two weeks, the IC squad got to really experience Vietnam. From Ho Chi Minh City all the way to Tây Ninh, Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu, Tiền Giang, Bình Dương… every stop on the map served up something unique – vibrant local culture, deep-rooted history, and the beautiful mix of tradition as well as modern life. With the help of HUFLIT’s Faculty of Tourism & Hospitality and Faculty of Oriental Languages and Cultures students and staff, the journey turned into full-on cultural immersion.
The IC students weren’t just sightseeing, they joined group work, academic-style discussions, and hands-on sessions exploring four key themes: Vietnamese cuisine, travel spots, culture, and traditional clothing. Discovering Vietnamese culture in real life, trying on traditional clothes, and vibing together with HUFLIT peers were extremely remarkable.
IC students had plenty to say :“This trip opened up a whole new world for me. I’m blown away by how friendly people are and how rich Vietnamese culture is.” – Takeda Runa. “Right from day one, HUFLIT staff and students welcomed us with open arms. Even though language and cultural barriers were real, everyone was so supportive that we felt at home quickly.” – Nakayama Kano shared his experience.
Even students from HUFLIT chimed in on how meaningful the time together was: “Hanging out, eating yummy food, doing fun activities together… it meant a lot. Hope to meet you all again in Japan!” said Lam Oanh, student from Faculty of Oriental Languages and Cultures.
From the HUFLIT side, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Vu (Vice President) echoed the vibes: this program isn’t just about a short trip, it’s about building real friendships, cultural bridges, and future collaborations between institutions. They’re committed to creating more of these exchanges so students from both countries can keep learning from each other.
At the end of the day, the memories, smiles, and connections made are the best proof that “exchange” goes far beyond the classroom. This was more than a visit, it became a shared journey of learning, culture, and global friendship.
