Photos by Lucas Hong (Rice University), Student Correspondent for CET Japan, Spring 2025
Unique Souvenirs from Japan
Sakura season is a beautiful but fleeting time in Japan, and I wanted to take a small piece of it with me. I dry-pressed a few flowers for my loved ones back home who haven’t had the chance to experience spring here. They’re so delicate and beautiful, and I can’t wait to hand them out!
Osaka is a thrifting paradise. The locals have amazing style, and it really shows in the furugiya (thrift stores). Some of my favorite finds this semester include Burberry trousers, a Diesel belt and denim jacket, and an A Bathing Ape handbag—each for around $30.
As the matcha capital of the world, the Kansai region is the perfect place to pick up matcha powder as a souvenir. There’s a wide range of grades available, from kitchen-grade (great for baking and lattes) to high-end ceremonial grade.
Springtime Adventures in Japan
Even though sakura season has just ended, the beauty of Japanese spring is far from over. Studying abroad here in spring has been perfect—the weather is so pleasant, and the foliage is just starting to turn lush and green as summer approaches.
We took advantage of the season and went on a bike ride by the river. It was peaceful and relaxing, with locals picnicking and playing music by the water. I’ll never forget the moment we lay on the grass, resting from our ride, listening to the river flow and a nearby flute player.
On another weekend, we hiked Mt. Yoshino. The hike was tough, but the view at the top was worth it. I wish we had visited during sakura season—this area is known for having one of the greatest cherry blossom views in Japan.
“Boku no Ohashi”: Making My Own Chopsticks
In Japan, many people carry their own personal pair of chopsticks instead of using communal ones. As part of a class excursion in Kyoto, our teachers took us to make our own. We started with thick pieces of wood and carved them down, tapering the ends. Then we added details; I added an hourglass detail to the top for a personal touch.
After shaping them, we coated them in olive oil to hydrate the wood. We also made custom cases using stencils and ink—mine reads Boku no Ohashi, meaning “my chopsticks.” It was definitely my favorite class excursion!
A Recap of Character Design in a Japanese Context
My art elective, “Character Design in a Japanese Context,” has definitely been a highlight of the semester. The projects were fun and open-ended, giving us lots of room for creativity. The class is held at Human Academy in the city, and since our transportation is reimbursed, it’s also been a great way to explore Osaka after class.
One of my favorite excursions was Hanami, where we picnicked under the cherry trees and did quick sketches of people around us. The artwork pictured here was for our unit on traditional clothing—we learned about traditional garments and their history, and designed characters wearing kimonos based on what we learned.