We have said goodbye to Tokyo and have arrived safely in Kyoto! We checked out of our hotel this morning and took the Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto. We explored our new neighborhood this afternoon with a visit to the Nishiki Market and Gion area.

Here is a post from one of our students, Evita S., about her last day in Tokyo:

Today was our last day in Tokyo, which is still impossible to comprehend. In less than three weeks this city has become our home far away from home and our fellow students and teachers have become our family. I’m extremely grateful to be leaving this overwhelming city with so many experiences and important lessons learned.

First of all, it is extremely fascinating to be surrounded by 22 vibrant and unique individuals who have totally different backgrounds, characters, interests, and aims. Looking at everyone’s final projects tonight was very impressive—so many talented, passionate and enthusiastic people are gathered together and have the opportunity to share their fresh ideas. However, our compelling teachers have also played a huge role. Apart from teaching their academic subjects, dealing with our stupid problems and making sure we aren’t dead, they have also become people who we admire and look up to. All of them, again, have absolutely different (yet huge) bags of experiences and are willing to share their knowledge and wisdom with us.

No need to say, Tokyo itself and the intensity of our program were significant, too. Every night I crawl to my bed, exhausted and drained, yet extremely grateful. The amount of places we visit, people we meet, and things we learn every day is overwhelming. I’m extremely happy to have this opportunity to gain more and more knowledge and broaden my horizons.

It is sad to leave, although I’m looking forward to spending a few days in Kyoto, where I hope we will be able to fully connect with Japanese culture, our group and ourselves, as the huge city won’t be a distraction anymore.

Overall, this has been an eye-opening journey, which has changed me as a person and will forever stay in my heart. I’m beyond grateful to be a part of this open-minded and inclusive community. I believe that exploring and learning is all life is about, and meeting people with the same life position is always an enthralling experience.