Experience Japanese culture! Supporter networking event "Nara Sightseeing Tour" held

Last month, on Wednesday, October 18th, we held a Nara sightseeing tour as a supporter networking event.

One of the mandatory support tasks for registered support organizations is to support interactions with Japanese people , and as part of this, our association holds ``supporter exchange meetings'' two to three times a year.

We hope that you will expand your interactions beyond companies and nationalities while experiencing unique Japanese experiences and culture!

The last time we held a BBQ party was in July of this year .

This time, the number of people supporting us at the Kansai branch has increased,

First ever exchange event in the Kansai region.

A total of 12 people participated (^^♪

This time, I would like you to have an experience that is unique to Japan, which is hard to find on your own.

We have planned a Nara sightseeing tour that includes kimono and pottery experience!

9:30 Arrive at the kimono rental shop!

This time, we were assisted by the kimono rental shop Yuusha .

First, let's experience Japanese culture through appearance...! So, let's change into a kimono!

Each of us chose a kimono with our favorite color and pattern.

Many people were wearing kimonos for the first time, and we heard comments such as, "I'm so happy to be able to wear the kimono I've always dreamed of!" and "I've been really looking forward to this day."

Once your hair is styled, you're ready to dress!

Everyone looked beautiful and cool in their kimonos.

11:00 Stroll around Nara Park!

We set off for the Great Buddha of Todaiji Temple, strolling through Nara Park. Some people were not wearing kimonos, so we joined them along the way.

At Nara Park, we gave deer crackers to the deer!

I approached cautiously,

We were able to give them to them! However, everyone was very scared at first (lol).

Gradually, they got used to it, and everyone said it was their first time giving deer crackers, and they all enjoyed it.

11:30 Arrive at Todaiji Temple

After walking for about 30 minutes, we finally arrived at Todaiji Temple!

Go through the South Gate and head towards the Great Buddha Hall.

The Great Buddha was huge and overwhelming in scale.

After visiting the Great Buddha Hall, we were hungry so we headed for lunch.

13:30 Lunch

I had soba noodles at Takama-ya (*^^*)

Some people were eating soba for the first time and looked anxious before eating.

"It's delicious!" she exclaimed, finishing the meal.

Now that our bellies are full, we head to the pottery class!

17:00 Pottery experience at the pottery class

We visited Naramachi Manyo Pottery School .

This is everyone's first time doing pottery!

First, listen carefully to the teacher's explanation.

After the teacher shows us how to do it, it's time to put it into practice!

When I saw the teacher making it, it looked easy.

When I actually tried it, it was really difficult. (cry)

Just when I thought I had it all figured out, I lost my balance and had to start again.

Everyone had a great time despite the struggles.

The finished piece will arrive in about a month! I can't wait for it to arrive...

Finally, a commemorative photo with the pottery class teacher ♪

Thank you for your help ^^

Thank you to all the supporters for participating!

I was in charge of planning and running this event, and seeing so many happy smiling faces from everyone, it made me realize once again how glad I was to have planned it!

This time, I am especially pleased to have had the opportunity to witness many of your first experiences in Japan .

We would like to continue to promote exchanges that transcend nationalities and companies through networking events and other means.

This year we are planning to hold a ski tour in the winter.