UDAKUMBURE RAJAPAKSHAGE HIRUSHA MADHUBHASHANI RAJAPAKSHA

The CRAFT KYUSHU Okawa Craftsmanship Tour was a culturally and educationally meaningful experience where I was able to learn about traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

The tour focused on woodworking techniques and the lives of people in Okawa City, which is well known for its woodworking industry. Through this experience, I was able to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and craftsmanship.

During the tour, we had the opportunity to visit local workshops and observe skilled craftspeople processing wood using traditional techniques. What impressed me especially was the precision and patience required for their work. I realized that even wooden products that look simple at first require a great deal of effort and concentration to make.

One of the most memorable parts of this tour was being able to experience woodworking ourselves. We made wooden chairs and also tried wood carving. At first, it felt a little difficult, but as I continued working, I began to enjoy the process of making something by hand.

Through this experience, I understood that woodworking requires a high level of skill and close attention to detail. When I saw the finished piece, I felt proud and satisfied that I had been able to make it myself.

Another memorable part of the tour was interacting with local people. Everyone was very kind and warmly welcomed us, which made me feel comfortable and allowed me to enjoy my time there. By spending time and talking with local people, I was able to understand their culture and daily lives more deeply. The local food was also very delicious, and the karaage was especially memorable.

As I walked around the town, I felt a calm and traditional atmosphere. Okawa City has a strong local identity, and I realized how important craftsmanship is to the local community. It was also very interesting to learn about the traditions and cultural differences that have been passed down in the area.

This tour was not only a valuable learning experience, but also a very meaningful experience for me personally. I was able to understand the effort behind handmade wooden products and the importance of traditional techniques. Through interacting with local people, I also realized the value of cultural exchange.

Overall, the Okawa Craftsmanship Tour was a very fulfilling and memorable experience for me. Through this experience, my respect for traditional craftsmanship became stronger, and I would like to continue learning about different cultures in the future.