Two months have passed since students from Teikyo University (Japan) first arrived at HUFLIT. Halfway through their cultural exchange program may not seem like a long time, but it has been enough for initial hesitation and unfamiliarity to gradually give way to understanding, warm friendships, and an exciting immersion into the vibrant rhythm of life in Saigon. Together with the Department of External Relations, let us look back on the past month and explore the memorable moments and personal reflections shared by the exchange students through a series of charming personal posters!
A city full of motorbikes and unforgettable culture shocks
Every country has its own unique characteristics, and Saigon welcomed the Teikyo students with its fast-paced energy and experiences found only in a tropical city. One of the first and most memorable impressions for many students was the overwhelming number of motorbikes on the streets. Both Hashimoto Rioto and Ono Nanami expressed their amazement at the endless flow of motorbikes filling the roads from morning until night.
While the bustling traffic was surprising, the hot weather and encounters with a few unexpected “local creatures” created some truly unforgettable culture-shock moments. Koike Akinari humorously admitted that one of the most memorable things about Vietnam was encountering cockroaches, while Morioka Issei could not help but agree, joking about the combination of intense heat and unexpected insect encounters. Things that may seem completely ordinary to local residents quickly became favorite conversation topics among the Teikyo students.
The fastest way to the heart is… through the stomach
If there is one universal language capable of bridging cultural differences, it is undoubtedly food. Saigon’s vibrant culinary scene quickly became a source of comfort and enjoyment for the exchange students. Murao Kenshin was particularly captivated by the crispy texture and rich flavors of Vietnamese bánh mì, declaring it his favorite Vietnamese dish.
Meanwhile, Abe Yuko became a devoted fan of cơm tấm (broken rice), humorously remarking that the affordable prices in Vietnam made it dangerously easy to overspend. Sakamoto Maika added both cơm tấm and bún thịt nướng (grilled pork with rice noodles) to her list of favorite dishes, while Otsuka Ryo fully embraced life in Saigon by balancing gym sessions, making new friends, and exploring the city’s diverse street food culture.
Learning, growing, and discovering at HUFLIT
Beyond experiences outside the classroom, studying at HUFLIT has provided Teikyo students with many valuable opportunities for personal growth. After two months of studying and interacting with Vietnamese students, many participants noted that they had become more confident in communication and more open to engaging with people from different cultural backgrounds. Classroom activities not only offered academic learning opportunities but also encouraged cultural exchange, discussion, and the development of broader perspectives. Academic activities, extracurricular programs, and student exchange events have further enriched the overall experience, making each day both meaningful and memorable.
From conversations after class to new experiences beyond campus, every day at HUFLIT has brought opportunities to learn, explore, and grow. For many Teikyo students, this exchange semester represents much more than an academic program; it is a chance to challenge themselves, step outside their comfort zones, and gain valuable life experiences.
When buddies become lifelong companions
One of the most frequently mentioned highlights in the students’ reflections was the support they received from their Buddy partners. From the very beginning, Buddies helped international students adapt to a new academic environment, adjust to daily life in Vietnam, and navigate unfamiliar situations. Shared meals, city explorations, and heartfelt conversations gradually transformed these partnerships into genuine friendships.
Among the many stories shared, the words of appreciation expressed by Ms. Tachihara Fumie for her Buddy were particularly touching. For her, one of the most meaningful aspects of her time in Vietnam was knowing that someone was always willing to accompany, support, and help her feel welcomed in a new environment. These simple yet meaningful connections perfectly reflect the purpose of the Buddy Program – not only to assist international students in adapting to life abroad, but also to foster friendships that transcend differences in age, language, and nationality.
As the first two months at HUFLIT come to a close, the Teikyo students carry home much more than memories of a new country. They leave with lasting friendships, new perspectives, and unforgettable experiences shaped by the meaningful connections between two cultures.