Changson Wathinee
About studying abroad at Hirosaki University
Why did you choose Hirosaki University?
I had been hoping to study abroad at a national university, and when I learned that Hirosaki University is the only national university in Aomori Prefecture, that was the trigger. I had always longed to "live in a snowy region at least once." Also, the thought of how happy I would be to live in Hirosaki, the home of my beloved apples, while enjoying delicious apples, was one of the main reasons I decided to study abroad.
How did you feel when you found out you would be studying abroad at Hirosaki University?
I was so happy and excited. I still remember how my heart was filled with anticipation, thinking, "I'm finally going to be able to live in Hirosaki, the apple town I've always dreamed of!"
Apple trees and Mount Iwaki
Were there any things you were looking forward to or worried about before coming to Japan?
Yes, I did. Since it would be my first time living in a snowy region, I was a little worried about whether I would be able to live safely in an unfamiliar environment. On the other hand, I was also very excited about experiencing a new life and the snowy landscape.
At Iwakiyama Shrine in the snow
Did your impression change after actually studying abroad?
Yes. It has changed significantly for the better. There is a high degree of freedom in course selection, and I can choose classes according to my interests and goals. In class, I can not only learn deeply about the history and culture of Aomori and Hirosaki, but I can also actively participate in extracurricular activities such as hands-on programs and local festivals, so I am having a very fulfilling time every day.
I wore a yukata to class.
Please tell me what made you think, "I'm glad I came to Hirosaki University.".
The environment allows you to learn in your own way without feeling excessive stress from your studies. There are many attractive courses both within and outside your faculty, so you can create a study plan that suits you.
Furthermore, the teachers are very caring and will always be there to help if you have any problems.
Furthermore, there were plenty of events for international students and opportunities for community interaction, allowing me to meet many people through various experiences. Among them, the Hirosaki Neputa Festival, which I participated in with my university friends, is a memory I will never forget.
I truly believe that choosing Hirosaki University was one of the best decisions I've ever made in my life.
At the Hirosaki Neputa Festival
Student life
What kinds of classes and research are you involved in at Hirosaki University?
I mainly take Japanese language classes and lectures on Japanese history and culture. For my research, I focused on two themes: "A survey on the actual state of Tsugaru dialect acquisition among Thai international students at Hirosaki University" and "A consideration of cultural differences in expressions of affection between Thais and Japanese."
Class presentation
What classes or teachers left the biggest impression on you?
The professor who left the biggest impression on me was Professor Chiyo Takahashi. She guided me not only in classes but also in research, and she was a very trustworthy teacher. Whenever I had questions, she would always explain things carefully and clearly, and I was able to learn a lot about Japanese culture and society that I had never known before. To me, she was like a Japanese mother. I also feel that the fact that "internships" are incorporated into the curriculum is a major attraction of Hirosaki University. By going to actual workplaces in addition to lectures on campus, I was able to acquire a lot of practical learning and skills that I couldn't get at university. Having an environment where I could be in the social space outside of the university and grow while testing my own abilities is something I'm really glad about coming to Hirosaki University.
Professor Takahashi and
What were some of the difficulties you faced while studying Japanese, and what aspects of your Japanese did you feel you improved in?
I originally had some difficulty with grammar, but after studying it thoroughly for two semesters at Hirosaki University, I was able to feel that I had grown. In particular, I feel that I have acquired more natural Japanese expressions thanks to the careful instruction I received from native English-speaking teachers on grammatical nuances and usage. Among them, Professor Shinkawa's classes were very easy to understand and left a particularly strong impression on me.
Are you participating in any clubs or extracurricular activities?
Yes. I belong to the Hirosaki University Archery Club and the Hirosaki University All-Star Tennis Circle. Archery is an attractive sport that helps train concentration. I was also happy that I could enjoy tennis in Japan, which is difficult to start easily in Thailand due to the cost and other factors. The time I spent practicing with my teammates, learning techniques and tips from them, was a very valuable experience.
Tennis circle
Club members
How do you interact with Japanese students and other international students?
I learn Tsugaru dialect from them in our everyday conversations, and we go to festivals and cafes together and enjoy traveling. Sometimes we talk about our worries and futures, and through studying abroad, I've made many precious friends who transcend national borders.
At a cafe with a friend
What is the most memorable event from your time at Hirosaki University?
My most memorable experience was participating in the Hirosaki Neputa Festival. Experiencing the local traditional culture with my university friends was a very valuable experience and a memory I will never forget.
We wore matching Nebuta costumes.
Life in Hirosaki
Could you tell me about your daily routine?
On weekdays, 9時30分頃に起床し、10時20分頃に大学へ向かいます。午前の授業を受けた後、11時50分から昼休みを取り、12時40分から午後の授業に参加します。17時30分に授業が終わると18時頃に帰宅し、19時に夕食を食べます。その後は課題や復習に取り組み、24時頃に就寝するのが普段の生活です。
Saturday and Sunday,10時頃に起床し、13時頃から研究を進めます。17時からはサークル活動に参加し、21時頃に帰宅します。夕食を済ませた後はゆっくり過ごし、23時頃に就寝します。
Ikebana (Japanese flower arrangement) class
Please tell me what you like about living and the environment in Hirosaki..
I really like Hirosaki because of its calm atmosphere and the warmth that you can feel in a regional city. While transportation can be a little inconvenient at times, I'm more drawn to its peaceful and comfortable living environment.
What are some of your impressions of the climate and lifestyle in Hirosaki, and how does it differ from your hometown?
What left the biggest impression on me was the beautiful snowscape. My home country is hot all year round and it never snows. So, when I saw a snowy landscape for the first time in Hirosaki, I was truly moved. Even now, I feel happy every time it snows. On the other hand, I also realized how harsh the cold is when you're outside for a long time, and how difficult life is in winter.
Campus courtyard covered in snow
What are your impressions of living here, such as shopping and public transportation?
I find public transportation a bit inconvenient. Buses, in particular, have limited routes and frequency, so I often check the timetable in advance when going out on weekends. On the other hand, there's a supermarket about a 3-minute walk from my apartment, which is very convenient for everyday shopping, and I rarely feel inconvenienced.
Things that left an impression on me
Things that surprised me in Japan and cultural differences
I've become quite accustomed to life in Japan, so I don't experience the kind of culture shock I used to. However, there was something that surprised me this summer. When I went to a summer festival, even though the festival wasn't supposed to start until 7 p.m., there were already many people reserving spots around 3 p.m. I was surprised that they prepare so early, and I felt it was a unique aspect of Japanese culture.
Recommended
Favorite places in Hirosaki City and Aomori Prefecture
In Hirosaki City, I particularly like Iwakiyama Shrine and Hirosaki Park. As for Aomori Prefecture as a whole, I really like Hirota Shrine in Aomori City and the coastal scenery around the ASPAM tourist product center. I think both are places where you can feel the unique charm of Aomori.
Entrance to Iwakiyama Shrine (winter)
Hirosaki Park (Autumn)
Recommended Events
If you're visiting in the summer, the spectacular "Aomori Nebuta Festival" and "Hirosaki Neputa Festival" are definitely recommended. Furthermore, Hirosaki Park hosts a variety of events throughout the year, and the "Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival" in spring and the "Hirosaki Castle Chrysanthemum and Autumn Leaves Festival" in autumn are also events you should definitely check out.
Aomori Festival
Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival (Cherry Blossoms at Night)
To those who are going to study abroad
For those considering studying abroad at Hirosaki University
For those who want to try living in a snowy region, or who want to learn while experiencing Japan's rich nature and culture firsthand, I confidently recommend Hirosaki University. I'm sure that not only will you learn, but you'll also have many wonderful encounters and unforgettable experiences.
Advice for making the most of your study abroad experience
To make the most of your study abroad experience, it's essential to be well-prepared, both mentally and physically. During your time abroad, you may face unexpected events and difficulties. However, you can't control everything perfectly. That's why it's crucial to remain calm, accept any situation, and maintain a flexible attitude. Try to enjoy each experience with a positive mindset, even if it feels a little too casual. I'm sure all of these experiences will contribute to your personal growth.
Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival (a spot where the sky looks like a heart)