Responsible Business from East to West 2024 – Study Tour to Japan, Days 1 and 2

Under the ABEN Network, a workshop called “Responsible Business – from East to West” took place in March 2024. This workshop consisted of 6 interactive, and discussion-based classes co-led by Dr. Fred Ku from the Chinese University of Hong Kong and experts from overseas. The case method was used for this workshop, and cases were discussed from both developed and developing economies, including Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Indonesia, and Poland.

Based on this workshop, students from Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Nagoya University of Commerce and Business (NUCB), and National Chiayi University (NCYU) had the chance to go on a study tour to Tokyo from May 13 to 17. Students could gain invaluable insights into Japan’s cutting-edge approach to sustainable business practices and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. In addition, the purpose of the study tour was to gain a better understanding of how businesses can lead the charge in creating a better future for all.

May 13 (Day 1) - Arrival

Students and staff set off to arrive in Tokyo on Monday. The purpose of the first day of the tour was to allow everyone to get settled in and get acquainted with their surroundings. This year, we had a total of 36 students attend the tour. Of that group, 10 NUCB students who are part of the Global BBA program attended, including a mix of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-year students.

The first day was designed to be a smooth introduction to Tokyo, giving everyone the chance to recover from their travels and start exploring the city. For many, it was their first time in Tokyo, so the focus was on helping them navigate their new environment. Students were encouraged to rest and explore at their own pace. The evening also included a zoom session to brief students on the week ahead.

May 14 (Day 2) - Company and Campus Visits

Nikken Sekkei

With everyone settled into the new environment, the second day of the study tour officially commenced on Tuesday. The day commenced with a visit to Nikken Sekkei, with everyone gathering to be picked up by bus.

Nikken Sekkei is a renowned Japanese architecture, engineering, and urban design firm. Founded in 1900, it is one of the oldest and largest architectural firms in Japan. The company is headquartered in Tokyo and operates globally, providing comprehensive services in architecture, urban design, landscape design, and interior design.

The visit started with us exploring a common area made available to guests. Students were able to learn about Nikken Sekkei’s current and past projects, along with facts and history about the company itself. Our short visit also included a presentation and Q&A about the company, which our students highly valued.

Tokyo Campus and Presentation About Family Business

Following this, everyone made their way to the Tokyo Campus of NUCB’s Business School. The campus is located in the heart of the city, right next to Tokyo Station at the Marunouchi Building. Here everyone got acquainted with the facilities, and had some time to prepare for their presentations in the afternoon.

NUCB’s Chancellor, Dr. Hiroyuki Kurimoto joined us to give an opening speech which was very much welcomed by our students. This was followed by a presentation about family business by Mr. Jun Kawada, a part of the Family Business Network Japan. Our participants highly valued his insights, many students had a number of follow-up questions during his Q&A.

Visit To Keio University

For the afternoon, we once again boarded the bus and made our way to Keio University, one of Japan’s oldest private universities, being established in 1858.

Here, students carried out their presentations based on the Responsible Business – from East to West online workshop that they previously participated in. Participants including staff and faculty from Keio University also joined the occasion to view and engage. NUCB’s participants gave an excellent presentation which was followed by a Q&A which many students participated in.

The evening was followed by a presentation by Sumire Hirotsuru, a professional violinist based in Tokyo/New York, who talked about chasing one’s dreams and pursuing what you’re passionate about. Ms. Hirotsuru also gave a performance with her violin, which everyone listened to intently. To wrap things up, Keio University also hosted a special dinner for the participating guests, which also gave a chance for students and staff to discuss the day.

Asian Business Education Network

The Asian Business Education Network (ABEN) is a platform that aims to deepen engagement among the top business schools in Asia and build strategic multilateral collaborations through education, student experience, industry engagement, and research.

The network currently consists of three universities: Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Nagoya University of Commerce and Business (NUCB), and National Chiayi University (NCYU).