Phạm Thanh An.

Visiting Okawa City: A Journey of Culture and Crafts The first thing I noticed when I set foot in Okawa City was the tranquility of the city. This small and cute city is located in the Kyushu region of Japan, and the fresh, cool air made me feel relaxed immediately. The narrow alleys, traditional Japanese houses, and lush trees create a beautiful landscape. What impressed me most was the friendliness and hospitality of the people here.

Everyone welcomed me with warm smiles, and I felt like I was at home even though I was in a foreign country. On the first day, I had the opportunity to meet students from National University.

Nagasaki University and Asia Pacific University. The first few conversations were a bit awkward, but as we talked about each other's lives, interests, and cultures, we quickly became comfortable and enjoyable. The students here are very open and enthusiastic, and I feel like I can fit in right away. Lunch that day was really special. I, the students, and the teachers all enjoyed eating together.

Cozy and intimate dining Japanese food, really delicious and full of flavor. Not only the food but the open and fun atmosphere during the meal made me feel more connected with everyone, and this experience became a beautiful memory of the trip. After lunch, I participated in a woodworking experience, a specialty craft of Okawa city. I was instructed how to make beautiful wooden products step by step, from boxes to small wooden products.

Through this activity, we gained a deeper understanding of the ingenuity and meticulous care that local people take to create sophisticated wooden products. In the afternoon, we visited the Chikugo River Lift Bridge. This bridge is

Hien Luong Bridge in Vietnam is very familiar to me. Standing on the bridge, I could see the vast Chikugo River and feel the tranquility and serenity of the surrounding nature. It is also one of the important historical sites of the city. In addition, I learned about the history of Okawa City and its home appliance manufacturing industry. The city has long been famous for its woodworking, especially its exquisite handmade wooden products. I also visited historical sites and a vinegar factory that has been making vinegar the traditional way for generations.

On the second day, we continued our tour of the Nittawara Woodworks, where Japan's famous woodworking technique, Kumiko, is made. Kumiko is not only a woodworking technique, but also a refined art imbued with traditional cultural values. We are truly impressed by the care and patience of the artisans here who create unique wooden products.

Our next stop was Marusho Co., Ltd., a furniture manufacturer that produces high-quality wooden products. We witnessed the production process, from wood selection to processing and finishing into exquisite household items. Each product is not just an everyday item, but contains long-standing artistic and cultural value.

Today's lunch is the local specialty, the Aradaki Teishoku, a dish so rich in flavor and delicious that it's hard not to praise it highly. From the fresh fish to the tempting side dishes, everything adds up to a wonderful culinary experience.

In the afternoon, I participated in a wonderful exchange between international students and local people. Everyone was very friendly and happy to talk about their lives and culture. Through this exchange, I not only gained a deeper understanding of the lives of the people here, but also experienced their hospitality and kindness.

After two days of touring Okawa city, I feel like I learned a lot about Japanese culture, history and traditional crafts. Not only does this city have beautiful scenery, but it also has a rich culture and very friendly people. My memories of Okawa city will be a lasting mark on my travels.