SI THU MYO

I had a chance to visit Okawa in Fukuoka Prefecture for two days. Before going there, I didn’t know much about this city, but after visiting, I felt it was a very nice and interesting place. It is not a big or famous city, but it has its own special feeling.

On the first day, I visited a factory in Okawa. Since the city is famous for furniture, this was a very interesting experience for me. I could see how the furniture is made and how people work there. The process was not easy, and it needed skill and patience. The workers were very focused, and I felt that they take pride in their job.

During the visit, I also listened to the guide’s explanation. The guide explained how the furniture is made step by step and also talked about the history of the industry in Okawa. Because of this, I could understand better, not only by seeing but also by learning.

After that, I also visited a place where they make Kumiko woodwork. Kumiko is a traditional Japanese technique that uses small pieces of wood to create detailed patterns without using nails. When I saw it closely, I was really surprised because the designs were very detailed and beautiful.

At lunchtime, I ate sushi and karaage. The food was simple but very delicious.

We also had a chance to try making some things by ourselves. Some people made small boxes for pens, and some tried other items. I made a chair. It was not easy, and I made some small mistakes, but it was a fun experience. When I finished it, I felt happy because I made it by myself.

After finishing the activities, we walked around the city and then went to our hotel. We took a short rest and put our bags in the room. After that, we went out again to see one of the most beautiful sunsets in Okawa.

The sunset view was really amazing. The sky slowly changed colors from orange to pink, and the light reflected on the water. The atmosphere was very quiet and peaceful. At that moment, I felt very relaxed and forgot about my daily stress.

After watching the sunset, we walked around the city again for a while and then went back to the hotel. For dinner, we had a Japanese-style meal prepared by the hotel. It was different from what I usually eat, but it was very delicious and interesting.

After dinner, we had a meeting to share our experiences. Everyone talked about what they did and what they learned during the day. Listening to others was also interesting because they had different experiences. It helped me understand more about the trip.

On the second day, we had breakfast at the hotel again. The food was simple but good, and it was a nice start to the day. After that, we walked around the city with a guide. While walking, the guide explained many things about the city, such as its history, culture, and daily life.

After that, we experienced a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. It was quiet and relaxing, and I enjoyed learning how to drink tea in the proper way.

We also visited a place where traditional Japanese vinegar is made. I learned how vinegar is produced and how it is used in daily cooking.

For lunch, we were divided into small groups and went to eat separately. This was a little different, but it was fun because I could talk more with my group members.

We also had a chance to talk with local people. I asked them some questions about their daily life and work. They answered kindly, and it helped me understand the city better. This was a very valuable experience for me.

After finishing all the activities, we prepared to leave Okawa. Even though the trip was only two days, I learned many things and had a good experience. I felt a little sad to leave because I liked the quiet atmosphere and the people there.

In conclusion, visiting Okawa was a very good experience for me. I learned about furniture, saw how it is made, listened to the guide, and also tried making a chair by myself. I also experienced Kumiko woodwork, a traditional tea ceremony, and vinegar making. I enjoyed local food like sushi and karaage and experienced a peaceful atmosphere. Even though it is not a famous tourist place, it has its own charm. If I have a chance, I want to visit again.