Recently, I had the wonderful opportunity to visit my alma mater, Kansai Gaidai University (KGU) — the place where my Japan life began. Although the original campus I attended, near Keihan Makino Station, is no longer there, the beautiful Hirakata City campus is truly a sight to see. My sincere thanks to Dean of the Asian Studies Program and Professor, Stephen Zurcher , as well as to Director Reiko Hiromoto and Naomi Nakawa of the Center for International Education , for

WAKAYAMA Prefecture Zone @ KANSAI PAVILION The Kansai Pavilion at Expo showcased the diverse richness of the Kansai region — the prefectures of Shiga, Kyoto, Hyogo, Nara, Wakayama, Tottori, Tokushima, Fukui, and Mie — each presenting its unique blend of history, culture, creativity, charm, and attractions. Wakayama Prefecture - Part 1 Among them, the Wakayama zone was a deeply moving highlight. I was privileged to experience it firsthand, guided by the warm and generous sp

CZECHIA Pavilion Rising in a graceful spiral — and crafted entirely from Czech wood, glass, and CLT panel timber technology, the Czech pavilion is a marvel! With no supporting metal frame , it’s a first of its kind at this Expo — and in Japan! Inside, the theme “Talent and Creativity for Life” comes alive through installations of famed Czech glass-blown sculptures and contemporary art painted directly on the curved walls . As you ascend the spiral, shapes, colors, and stori